This report briefly reviews the evidence for the current state of community interaction within England, together with theoretical approaches such as ‘contact theory’ which can inform activities that bring individuals and groups together. The report then draws on the expertise of 28 practitioners from across the country who highlight activities which can be used to stimulate greater interaction and the obstacles and barriers that exist.
The report identifies four key principles which are crucial for enabling interaction, and which underpin the National Community Forum’s recommendations for further developing the potential of this work.