Building participation to shape a just and green PLANET
A ‘just’ transition
A strong green and digital economy can regenerate local places and improve people’s lives. To turbocharge this shift, policymakers must understand people’s readiness for change, giving support, inspiring trust, and mobilising action.
Visit our Just Transition hubNew centre to drive ‘sustainable futures for all’
Read about the JUST Centre‘In this moment of hope, let’s change the ‘net zero’ narrative’
Read our articleA bright future for community energy?
Read our blogA five-point plan for a green and fair future
Read our blogLeaving no one behind in transition to net zero
Read our reportEmily Morrison - Director of Sustainability and Just Transition, The Young Foundation“As our lives are disrupted by climate impacts, we need confident, inclusive policies that enable us to realise the huge social, economic and health benefits of a green transition, as well as create a more stable, safe, and sustainable planet. Government, business and energy companies, and communities are all key stakeholders and co-leaders in reaching a fairer, greener future.”
Talking transitions: the road to net zero
The UK government has pledged to hit net zero targets by 2050 – but, if we are to achieve that goal, community engagement is crucial. This short film from The Young Foundation’s Institute for Community Studies hears from members of the public, to gain a greater understanding of their concerns, and find out just how much – or how little – people understand about the challenge we face.
Community participation in the UK’s 'green' transformation
Community collaboration in Hounslow
We are working with local residents and Hounslow Council to make the area greener and improve quality of life, both now and for the future.
Powering sustainable London homes
This project with the London Sustainable Development Commission and residents in London explores ideas to make homes more energy-efficient and cost-effective for all.
Thought leadership
A community-led net zero: how can we ensure a people-powered transition? Lib Dem conference 2023
Our CEO, Helen Goulden OBE, spoke on a panel about what a people-powered transition to net zero would look like at the Liberal Democrats conference 25 September 2023.
Community-led Net Zero: Helping vulnerable families participate in a successful transition? | SMF
The event was held in partnership with The Young Foundation’s Institute for Community Studies and Power to Change, who will be launching a radical new publication this autumn, exploring the impact of Net Zero on Britain’s poorest families.
Our spokespeople
Helen Goulden
Helen, CEO of The Young Foundation, leads our multi-disciplinary team of researchers and innovators to support stronger communities across the UK. She has extensive experience in both the private sector and government, enhancing digital strategies and solutions for global corporate clients.
Helen Goulden OBEEmily Morrison
Emily drives social, environmental, and place-based impact, with significant experience co-designing and driving action on climate change and community resilience at a local, national and international level. She leads projects with communities, local authorities, government and the private sector.
Emily MorrisonOur vision for change
The Power of Participation: our vision 2024-28
Inequality Social innovation Systems change30 November 2023
Embracing the spirit of our founder, Michael Young, our five-year strategy, The Power of Participation, shares our vision to redesign the social contract between people, communities, state and business and shape a fairer, greener future.
Rewriting the rulebook
Community Community leadership Community needs & priorities Places Systems change9 July 2024
This policy brief outlines The Young Foundation’s vision for enhancing social participation in mission-based government.