Theme 3 - Teams

How can we form a community group/team?

Most community groups start with a group of like-minded people discussing a mutual problem or need. With a recipe of common interests, energy and a vision of change or action a group is formed. But by taking a little time to recruit a wider group, to consult, and develop a democratic way of working the group becomes an effective team.

Important steps are:

• Deciding why you need a group
• Identifying who will benefit
• Considering the activities of existing groups to avoid replication, and looking for linkages for support and assistance
• Reflecting on the potential life-cycle of the group
• Organising when and where you will meet
• Asking people to join and assist

This link to the Community Toolbox website details the steps and rationale for establishing a peer support group, which provides a good example of the steps in setting up a group.