Solidarity. It’s one of those words that feels both grand and distant. But when you break it down, it’s about something simple: showing up for each other. In our organisations, our communities, and the work we do, solidarity isn’t just a nice-to-have — it’s the glue that holds us together when things feel uncertain or overwhelming.
But here’s the question: who’s responsible for building it? Is it leaders? Teams? The whole organisation? And how do we make it more than a buzzword, especially in times of rapid change?
Let’s unpack what solidarity means in the context of strategy, innovation, and change. Let’s explore how organisations, councils, and communities are turning it into action, and what we can learn from their examples.
1. Solidarity is built from the ground up
Solidarity starts with listening. It’s about understanding the challenges people face and working alongside them to find solutions. At Adur & Worthing, the Supporting Communities to Make a Difference campaign highlights how councils can partner with local organisations and residents to tackle challenges collectively. Whether it’s addressing the cost-of-living crisis or creating opportunities for young people, it’s about finding ways to stand together.
Another example comes from the National Lottery Community Fund. Their Together for Our Planet programme supported grassroots groups to drive climate action in their communities, proving that solidarity often starts small but grows when people feel empowered.
How to apply this:
- Create spaces for people to share their concerns and ideas — town halls, surveys, or even casual coffee mornings.
- Focus on collaboration, not control. Ask: how can we support people to lead change, rather than do it for them?
- Look for quick wins. Sometimes solidarity means meeting an immediate need while building long-term change.
2. Solidarity thrives on collaboration
No one organisation can tackle today’s challenges alone. The best examples of solidarity come when sectors work together, breaking down silos and sharing resources. Look at Adur & Worthing’s SustainableAW partnership. It brings together businesses, charities, and councils to co-create a greener future, demonstrating that solidarity isn’t just about shared values — it’s about shared action.
Similarly, TPXimpact has been working with public sector organisations to rethink how digital services can support vulnerable communities. By focusing on human-centred design, they’re showing how collaboration can deliver better outcomes for everyone.
How to apply this:
- Build partnerships that balance power — ensuring everyone has a seat at the table and a voice in decisions.
- Focus on the long term. True solidarity isn’t transactional; it’s about building trust over time.
- Celebrate shared wins. When partnerships succeed, make sure everyone’s contributions are recognised.
3. Solidarity means showing up in hard times
True solidarity isn’t about being there when it’s easy. It’s about showing up when it’s hard. During the pandemic, organisations like the Government Digital Service pivoted quickly to create tools like the NHS Volunteer Responders platform, connecting people who needed support with those who could give it.
Closer to home, Adur & Worthing’s Community Warm Spaces are a lifeline for residents, proving that councils can play a critical role in fostering solidarity when it’s needed most.
How to apply this:
- Build flexibility into your strategy, so you can pivot quickly when challenges arise.
- Invest in the tools and skills your teams need to respond effectively in a crisis.
- Keep the focus on people. In hard times, solidarity means asking: what do our communities need most right now?
4. A call to action: how can you build solidarity?
Solidarity isn’t something we can leave to chance. It’s something we have to design into the way we work — through the questions we ask, the partnerships we build, and the values we hold ourselves to.
So, here’s your challenge:
- How can you embed listening and collaboration into your organisation’s strategy?
- What small actions can you take today to show up for the people around you?
- How can you create a culture where solidarity isn’t just a word, but a way of working?
The truth is, solidarity isn’t any one person’s responsibility — it’s all of ours. And when we make it a priority, we don’t just respond to change. We create the foundations for a better, fairer future.
