In November 2023 UCL and Islington Council formalised a strategic partnership, via a pivotal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), with the aim of working together to make Islington a fairer and more equitable place to live.
One project has explored how community-led, deliberative democratic processes can shape effective climate adaptation strategies and help to create a “cleaner, greener, healthier” community.
Through a series of citizens’ assemblies (broadly representative groups, brought together to discuss policy issues), Islington residents envisioned what a climate-resilient borough would look like, proposing pathways to achieve this in collaboration with the Council. UCL research assistants witnessed the participatory democracy in action; academics offered insights, acting as a constructive friend to the Council; and produced an evaluation report, providing independent reflections on the policymaking process.
UCL were able to act as a convenor on this topic, facilitating knowledge exchange across London: with Islington, Camden and Newham Councils, the Greater London Authority, and academics from UCL. The collaboration outlines the role universities play, providing space and facilitating resource to allow local authorities to convene with experts, and underscores the power of citizen assemblies to drive inclusive, transformative action on climate resilience.
Civic engagement is key to ensuring we remain resilient to climate issues, and UCL is keen to work with partners to adapt the way we manage extreme weather in the city.
