About National clt network
National CLT Network: Leading the Movement for Community Ownership of Land and Affordable Housing
The National CLT Network is a national membership body that represents community land trusts (CLTs) in England and Wales. The organization is dedicated to promoting community ownership of land and affordable housing, with a mission to create sustainable communities that are owned and managed by local people.
Community land trusts are non-profit organizations that acquire and manage land for the benefit of the local community. They provide affordable housing, protect green spaces, promote sustainable development, and empower local residents to take control of their own neighborhoods. The National CLT Network supports these organizations by providing training, resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities.
The organization was founded in 2010 as a response to the growing demand for affordable housing in England and Wales. Since then, it has grown into a vibrant network of over 300 CLTs across the country. These organizations range from small rural communities to large urban areas, but they all share a common goal: to create homes that are truly affordable for everyone.
One of the key benefits of joining the National CLT Network is access to its extensive resources on how to set up and run a successful community land trust. This includes guidance on legal structures, fundraising strategies, governance models, planning regulations, project management tools, marketing techniques – everything you need to know about starting your own CLT from scratch.
In addition to these practical resources, members also benefit from regular training events where they can learn from experts in various fields related to community development. These events cover topics such as finance management skills; social enterprise models; participatory design methods; tenant engagement strategies; policy advocacy tactics – all designed specifically for those working within or interested in setting up their own CLTs.
Another important aspect of being part of this network is having access to its lobbying power at both national and local levels. The National CLT Network works closely with government officials at all levels to promote policies that support community land trusts and affordable housing. This includes advocating for changes to planning regulations, tax incentives, funding opportunities, and other measures that can help CLTs thrive.
The National CLT Network is also committed to promoting diversity and inclusion within the movement. It recognizes that different communities have different needs and priorities, and works hard to ensure that all voices are heard. This includes providing training on how to engage with marginalized groups such as refugees, people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and others who may face barriers to accessing affordable housing.
Overall, the National CLT Network is a vital organization for anyone interested in promoting community ownership of land and affordable housing in England and Wales. Its resources, training events, advocacy work, and commitment to diversity make it an essential partner for anyone looking to start or grow a community land trust in their area. Joining this network means joining a movement that is changing the face of housing in the UK – one home at a time.