We live in extremely strange times. Donald Trump, Brexit, Islamic extremism and heightened xenophobia. The gulf between political oppositions is widening, and any sensible dialogue between them seems to be dissolving. Far from being disillusioned, there’s a glimmer of hope among our Audience. 54% of them feel political instability has made them value community more than they previously have. But in what ways are they now exercising and experiencing it?

The community of yesteryear was one cemented in physical location. Community centres, places of worship and even shopping malls were all significant places for people to congregate, but in our increasingly digital lives, once again things are on the move.

The connectivity of the digital age has enabled people worldwide to share ideas and identities that perhaps once left them feeling isolated. 59% of our Audience consider themselves part of an online community and 79% of respondents would like to have a relationship with their neighbours and larger community. Evidently the desire is there, but the requirements have changed. It is no longer solely about physical locality, above all else it’s about values.

In times of uncertainty we all need reassurance, whether it’s spending time with friends and family, or connecting with people on the other side of the world through the internet. Now more than ever we have the tools to regain that sense of community our Audience are longing for. In The Community Report we introduce you to some of the ways it’s happening.