A Toolkit for Cities: Building a Multi-Actor Local Prevention Framework

Chapter 3: Establishing a Local Leadership Group (LLG)

Once a city has mapped its key partners and resources through the Stakeholder Directory, the next step is to form an LLG. This is the central, city-led forum responsible for developing the LPF and overseeing its implementation.

The LLG brings together representatives from across local government and the wider community to ensure that the framework is inclusive, practical, and rooted in local knowledge and priorities. Its primary role is to guide the city through understanding local threats and vulnerabilities, identifying prevention needs and gaps, and designing a strategy that is achievable with local resources. By working collaboratively, the LLG helps ensure city ownership of the strategy and strengthens the chances of its long-term sustainability.

In selecting members, it is important to consider not only their professional expertise but also their credibility and trust within the communities they serve. The LLG should aim to include partners who are representative of the city’s diversity and who bring valuable perspectives to the table. Engaging those who already have established relationships with communities can strengthen trust, improve the quality of discussion, and ensure that the final framework reflects real local needs.

Cities should also strive for transparency and inclusivity in forming the LLG. This includes clearly explaining the purpose of the group, what participation will involve, and the expected time commitments. Transparent outreach and clear communication help build buy-in and avoid misunderstandings about the group’s role.

Not every important voice needs to be on the LLG itself. Cities may wish to consider other mechanisms for broader community involvement, such as advisory groups, town halls, city council hearings, meetings in different communities, or online comment periods. Offering multiple ways for community members to engage can help ensure the process is inclusive, equitable, and responsive to community concerns.

A well-formed LLG serves as the foundation for a successful LPF. By bringing together the right mix of partners, fostering collaboration and trust, and ensuring shared ownership of the process, cities can create a practical, locally tailored strategy to reduce the risks of hate, extremism, targeted violence and other threats to social cohesion.

Once the city has identified a diverse and representative group of potential members, the next step is to initiate outreach. This outreach should clearly explain the purpose of the LLG, the role participants will play, and the time commitment involved. Transparent and thoughtful communication at this stage helps set expectations, build early trust, and increases the likelihood of engagement.

A two-step approach is recommended. First, send an introductory email that briefly outlines the project and gauges interest in joining the LLG. If they express interest, follow up with more detailed information about the group’s goals, expectations, and timeline. If the individual declines, consider asking for referrals to others in their office, organisation, or network who may be a good fit. A sample outreach email, which can be tailored to local context and priorities, is included in Appendix G.

To provide further clarity for prospective LLG members, cities may also wish to share the Strong Cities Pilot Initiative Participation Guidelines, included in Appendix H. This document outlines the broader purpose of the initiative, the role and responsibilities of LLG members, and the expected timeline for participation. Sharing this information at the outset can help individuals make informed decisions about their involvement and reinforce the city’s commitment to transparency and collaboration.