A method of learning which stresses the importance of doing. 'Action learning sets' of about six students can be used for specific projects such as finding resources or preparing presentations, and allow students to test out ideas in a collaborative environment.

Focusing ideas to decide what steps may be needed to take to achieve particular goals within a given timescale.

A research method in which the people who are the subjects of the investigation work with (or are) the researchers.

Participation in civic life that defines a new relationship between citizens, services and the local and central state. Allows people to become interested in and play a greater role in public affairs and the delivery of public services.

Most natural systems and human activities are sensitive to the changing climate. The extent to which these systems are harmed by climate change depends both on the magnitude of the change and on the capacity of the natural or human system to adapt.Consequently, understanding the evolving socio-economic situation is as important as knowledge of the likely future climate for identifying vulnerable elements of society.Further information » Production vs consumption emissions (Word doc)

Housing that is available for purchase or rent at/below the local property market average. It is often administered by housing associations and local authorities can suggest preferred candidates, who are usually on low incomes and are unable to compete in the open property market.Further information The Housing Green Paper, Homes for the future: more affordable, more sustainable, sought views on the Government's proposals to: increase the supply of housing; provide well designed and greener homes that are supported by infrastructure; and to provide more affordable homes to buy or rent. The aim of Delivering Affordable Housing is to support local authorities and other key players in delivering more high quality affordable housing within mixed sustainable communities by using all tools available to them. It outlines the affordable housing challenge that needs to be met, and provides information on how existing delivery mechanisms operate to help in delivery. » Department for Communities and Local Government » Homes and Communities Agency

Work by placing organic waste in oxygen-free environments so that it reduces into a digestate (which can be used as fertiliser) and methane. The methane can be used as fuel.

Coordinated approach to tackling poverty through benefit advice, debt management and improved access to social work and housing services.

Court order used to deter individuals from carrying out persistent and serious anti-social behaviour. Anti-social behaviour can cause harassment, alarm or distress and often involves acts such as graffiti, abusive and intimidating language, excessive noise, littering and drunken behaviour. Can be served to anyone over 10 years of age and will last a minimum of two years.Further information » Home Office

Amount of public money available each year for housing associations to spend on building or renovating new homes. Now known as the National Affordable Housing Programme, run by the Homes and Communities Agency.

Designed to improve relations between local authorities and public service providers and local residents. Provides an opportunity for residents to raise matters of local concern, give feedback on how services are being delivered and influence the decisions being made about where they live. Also gives agencies and organisations in the area the chance to improve their knowledge and understanding of local issues.

Establishes regeneration priorities for an area with the aim of targeting funding from regional development agencies.

Brings together different agencies to break the cycle and improve quality of life in areas where economic, social and environmental problems have led to community exclusion.

A company set up by a local authority to manage and improve its housing. It separates the day-to-day housing management from the council's strategic role, and allows the local authority to access extra housing funds from central government.Further information» Department for Communities and Local Government

Strategy to secure the future of community organisations and charities through possession of tangible assets such as land, buildings or a dedicated income. Ensures self-sufficiency, independence and sustainability.