Building the capacity of local groups – a Pillars guide

Working together

Within a community, there will be many situations where health workers, farmers, teachers, extension workers and others need to work alongside or co-operate with other people. Successful co-operation needs understanding of other people’s views, concern for the needs of others and sharing of the same goal.

Unity is strength

One person working alone may feel unable to do much to change their situation. They may have no confidence to make changes, take action or speak out. A group of people who share the same situation, commitment and values, however, can achieve a great deal. Through working together and supporting each other they can take practical action. This can help build their confidence in themselves as a force for change. Together they may feel able to ask outsiders for advice or help. Together they can be strong

The role of leaders

A good leader should provide a stable base for a group, should be able to inspire group members to take action, should be able to keep the group united, should have the confidence to speak out if things go wrong and should always be open to new ideas. However, leaders should also be people who are always ready to listen, especially before making decisions.