Understanding perceptions of factors which contribute to successful community leadership by councillors in a local authority area within the North East of England

In recent decades, dynamics of community leadership and local governance have undergone significant transformations in England, reflecting evolving governmental approaches and community development initiatives. Community leadership has been widely considered as having a potential role in fostering social cohesion, adaptability, and resource mobilisation, together enhancing community resilience. This qualitative study, conducted in the North East of England, focuses on local authority councillors as potential community leaders. Through qualitative interviews with five councillors, two voluntary sector staff members, and a local authority officer, the research explores the narratives within these interviews relating to councillors' community leadership roles and practices. Analysis of these narratives highlights five key themes that interviewees perceive to be contributing to successful community leadership in this context: motivation, leadership approach, community engagement, partnership, and mentoring and learning. Moreover, the research highlights the importance of partnership and community engagement in understanding diverse community needs, fostering collaborative efforts, and maintaining the motivation needed to navigate and overcome various challenges.