The Development Trusts Association estimates that there are well in excess of 150 Development Trusts in England and Wales, with many similar organisations in Scotland, and in Northern Ireland. While there is no one model for Development Trusts, they do have common characteristics of being concerned with the regeneration of an area, not for private gain, aiming for long term sustainability, and community based and accountable. Their structure is explored in more detail later.
Trusts offer considerable benefits.
However, for trusts to be successful, they require a well planned start up process and considerable support during their early years. These issues are dealt with in the sections on Creating a Development Trust and Stages in the Start up Process. Trusts are engaged in a wide range of economic, social and environmental regenereation, ranging from the development and restoration of property to advice and training. Some specialise and others are diversifying. But all are providing local solutions to local need.