5.6

• What makes Grampound in Cornwall a good example of local engagement?

  Despite having only 800 people, Grampound has a strong community spirit, shown through a community-run shop and high political participation.
• Why was the Grampound community shop important, especially for the elderly?

  It reduced social isolation for older residents who struggled to access shops outside the village.
• How was Grampound’s community shop funded?

  The village raised £50,000, with 90% of households becoming shareholders. Additional funding came from charities, a renewable energy company, and the Prince Charles' Countryside Fund.
• How has Grampound shown strong community involvement beyond the shop?

  It hosts an annual carnival, supports 14 clubs, and has high voter turnout in elections. In 2013, 63% voted in Parish Council elections.
• What factors influence levels of engagement in different places?

  Age, gender, ethnicity, length of residence, and levels of deprivation all affect engagement. Older people and long-term residents are usually more engaged.
• How do age and gender affect community and political engagement?

  People over 60 are more likely to vote, and women tend to take part in more community activities than men
• Why might short-term residents or urban areas show lower engagement?

  Short-term residents often feel less connected, and urban areas have more population turnover and diversity, which can reduce community ties.
• How can ethnic diversity increase political engagement in deprived areas?

  People from diverse backgrounds may vote more if they’ve experienced prejudice or come from places with strong voting traditions.
• What is the typical approach to regeneration projects in the UK?

  They are usually top-down, led by planners and developers, with success measured by economic factors, not community impact.
• Why might people feel excluded from regeneration projects?

  Some believe regeneration mainly benefits high-income earners, not local communities.
• What controversy has surrounded regeneration in Cornwall?

  The building of a waste incinerator faced local opposition due to concerns about pollution and appearance, but was approved by Cornwall Council.
• How do renewable energy projects cause conflict in Cornwall?

  Though supported by national and local policies, some residents believe wind turbines and solar panels spoil the natural landscape.