Review Highlights Positive Impact of ABCD Programme in Leeds

November 17, 2025 Off By

Six-year assessment reveals social and economic benefits

A new review has been published detailing the impact of the Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) programme in Leeds over a six-year period from 2019 to 2025. The report focuses on six ‘Pathfinder’ sites across the city that have implemented the ABCD approach, which centres on building community strengths and social connections to empower residents to lead local change.

Overview of the ABCD approach and sites

The ABCD model works by identifying and utilising existing community assets, encouraging residents to share skills, knowledge, and ideas to foster social-led action. Since 2013, the programme has aimed to support local people in shaping improvements within their own communities.

The six Pathfinder sites featured in the review are:

Better Action for Families (BAFF)
Horsforth Community Assets Project (HCAP)
LS14 Trust
Older People’s Action in the Locality (OPAL)
St Luke’s Cares
Touchstone

Case studies illustrate community benefits

The review includes case studies demonstrating the positive effects of the programme. One example is the Horsforth Repair Cafe, launched by Caroline with support from a Small Sparks grant. The cafe offers a space where community members can have items repaired by professionals and hobbyists, while socialising over refreshments. The success of this initiative has led to the establishment of similar cafes in other areas.

Another case study features Irene’s St Barnabus Soup Kitchen in Burmantofts, which serves 40 to 70 people weekly. Supported by a Small Sparks grant, the kitchen has become a social hub that also addresses issues such as isolation by connecting visitors with local services, including food banks and support organisations like Touchstone.

Social return on investment and key findings

An updated Social Return on Investment (SROI) study conducted by Leeds Beckett University as part of the review found that for every £1 invested in ABCD, £36.90 of social value was generated within the communities served by the Pathfinder sites. This is a significant increase from a previous 2021 report which estimated a £14 return for every £1 invested.

The key findings of the review include:

ABCD Pathfinder sites have contributed to improved health and wellbeing among residents.
The approach has strengthened social action and unlocked community assets.
Connections between diverse communities have been deeply embedded, fostering friendships and a sense of pride and ownership.
ABCD initiatives have inspired community groups to take over assets, promote skills learning, and develop intergenerational projects.
The model is considered a cost-effective investment for prevention and building sustainable community infrastructure.

Statements from officials and academics

Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles, and culture, welcomed the review, highlighting the importance of listening to community voices and the value of the findings in shaping future ABCD work in Leeds.

Professor Anne-Marie Bagnall, Director of the Centre for Health Promotion Research at Leeds Beckett University, noted the programme’s role in fostering social connections and empowering residents, describing the nearly £37 social return on investment as evidence of the initiative’s growing impact.