WHAT:
U R IMPACT is an URBACT network of ten European cities focusing on addressing a key policy challenge: to develop effective strategies for empowering local communities during processes of urban regeneration. The goal is to prioritize social impact and community-based practices by reimagining the way urban regeneration actions are conducted. This entails placing citizens and their social and ecological well-being at the core of the strategy, and defining a methodology for collective decision-making and civic participation in local urban regeneration strategies. The measurement of social impact is at the very core of urban regeneration projects of 10 participating cities (Cinisello Balsamo – Italy, Bielsko-Biala – Poland, Bovec – Slovenia, Broumov – Czech Republic, Hannut – Belgium, Kamëz – Albania, Longford – Ireland, Mértola – Portugal, Murcia – Spain, and Târgu Frumos – Romania). 

HOW:

Stakeholders are involved to contribute to the definition of what can be considered indicators of positive social impact of urban regeneration projects, modeled on the different territories of the partnership.

By prioritizing social impact, with a focus on community involvement, urban regeneration actions are rethought by placing citizens and their social, economic and environmental well-being at the center of the processes. It also allows for an increased sense of belonging and civic participation. The validated URBACT expert of The Impact Lab was invited to support the social impact measurement aspects of the network. From developing a masterclass on social impact measurement, to a hands-on workshop, to strategic coaching sessions helping with social impact indicators, The Impact Lab is supporting the 10 cities on their social impact measurement journey in urban regeneration context.

RESULT:
Each of the 10 cities has successfully developed their impact vision and Theory of Change. Likewise, each city has developed concrete social impact indicators for their respective urban regeneration action.

Read more:

Measuring the social impact of urban regeneration: accompanying European cities on their impact journeys

Impactful urban regeneration: European cities learn how to centre their urban regeneration around measurable social impact

Next steps involve  impact data collection, impact analysis and impact reporting. The Impact Lab will continue to serve as expert guiding the cities through masterclasses, individual coaching sessions and strategic advice.