A course outlining why energy and climate change can be a particularly problematic issue for communities, how to overcome this and how this supports work on the Green Deal and climate change.

The new UN agreement on climate change needs action at every level to make it happen. Getting our communities engaged with this issue is not always easy. While some groups are active on climate change, this is a challenge to many others who may have different interests and priorities.

Local action can take many forms; from work on policy with councils and MPs (developing renewable energy projects that are owned and managed by our communities) to ongoing work to encourage community organisations to deliver a safe, secure zero-carbon future. There are good examples everywhere to learn from and there is an urgent need for effective action.

On this course, you will learn:

- How community engagement can deliver lasting change on climate and energy issues. 

- Why community engagement on climate change can be problematic.

- The best ways to start a dialogue around climate change and energy issues.

- To make effective links between work on fuel poverty and low carbon living.

- Support and work with communities.

- How to link work on adaptation and flooding with action to minimise climate change.

- To lead a discussion on the positive aspects of low / zero carbon living.

- Guidance on how to develop an action plan.

The course will benefit anyone working with or seeking to work with community organisations on climate / energy projects or local action planning.

It is designed for climate and energy staff, community workers, organisers and activists. It covers approaches to work with both enthusiastic and less engaged communities. All participants will have time to work on developing their own actions plans for work after the course.

Prices include a hot Mediterranean buffet lunch, Fair Trade refreshments and networking time.