Communities' built on collectivism are characterised by alienation, atomism, lack of confidence and crime. The strongest communities exist where voluntary collective action is most apparent. In rolling back the State we have rolled forward the scope for voluntary local collective action. We have given individuals far more scope for getting involved. Our opponents mistakenly equate local communities with local authorities.
Councils have an important job to do in delivering local services.
But in devolving significant power down to communities, our intention has not been simply to recreate national government at local level. As more people retire earlier and live longer, there is potentially an army of volunteers available to help others, while at the same time helping themselves to lead active and fulfilling lives. In this, if not in other areas, government's role is to act as a persuader. To make voluntary action grow we need to make sure that people have the information and encouragement they need. In this way, government can be a catalyst in unleashing volunteer power.