Two New ABCD Pathfinder Sites Launched in Leeds

July 15, 2026 Off By

Leeds City Council expands community development programme

Leeds City Council has announced the introduction of two new Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) Pathfinder sites in the city, located in Hyde Park and Chapeltown. The move aims to further empower local residents to influence positive changes in their communities by building on the success of the existing ABCD model.

Background and purpose of the ABCD programme

Since 2013, Leeds City Council has supported third sector organisations to operate as ABCD Pathfinder sites. These sites employ Community Builders who work directly with residents to foster connections and trust within communities. The ABCD approach focuses on identifying and utilising the existing strengths, skills, and talents of local people and groups to drive community-led projects.

The programme aligns with the council’s broader “Community Power” vision, which emphasises giving people a greater say in the places they live and the services they use.

New Pathfinder sites and delivery partners

Hyde Park: Delivered by All Hallows
Chapeltown: Delivered by Leeds Community Homes in partnership with Unity Housing

Impact and activities of the ABCD Pathfinder sites

The ABCD model has been linked to a range of positive outcomes, including increased community spirit and improved health and wellbeing by addressing issues such as loneliness and social isolation. Past projects have included:

Dance and art groups
Community choirs
Gardening initiatives
Cooking skills workshops
Coffee morning meet-ups
Knitting groups

These activities are typically held in safe and welcoming community spaces.

Review findings and social value

An in-depth review conducted in 2025 assessed the impact of funding the ABCD Pathfinder model between 2019 and 2025. The review included a Social Return on Investment (SROI) study by Leeds Beckett University, which found that for every £1 invested in ABCD, £36.90 in social value was generated within the communities served.

Statements from key stakeholders

Councillor Emma Flint, Executive Member for Equality, Adults and Health at Leeds City Council, said:

“We are excited to welcome two new ABCD Pathfinder sites to the communities of Hyde Park and Chapeltown. Since 2013, we have seen our ABCD programme grow into a strong example of community power in action. We look forward to seeing how All Hallows and Leeds Community Homes, in partnership with Unity Housing, will develop this work.”

Annmarie Clay, Operations Manager at All Hallows, commented:

“This ABCD funding is an opportunity to support people, nurture community-led projects, and map out the many activities happening in Hyde Park.”

Cynthia Brathwaite, Chief Operations Officer at Leeds Community Homes, said:

“The ABCD Pathfinder grant strengthens our partnership with Unity Housing Association to identify local talents in Chapeltown, deepen neighbourhood connections, and support community-led development.”

Cedric Boston, Chief Executive of Unity Homes and Enterprise, added: