understanding builds community

A PROJECT ABOUT HOW PEOPLE EXPERIENCE DIFFERENCE -

AND HOW WE BUILD BELONGING & COMMUNITY ANYWAY

ABOUT

In a world that often tells us we're divided, Elsewhere&Them is built on the foundation that connection starts with conversation. By exploring people’s lived experiences, values, and perceptions, this project aims to reflect how connected society truly feels — and to explore how we might amplify that sense of connection in all aspects of our lives

Using data and public opinion research, Elsewhere&Them offers a new way to understand how connected society feels today, and how we can build stronger, more inclusive communities tomorrow.

Whether you’re an organisation, government office, local council, working on the ground at the grassroots level, or simply someone curious about the power of connection this project is a tool to reframe how we see one another - and create space for understanding, belonging, and change.

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Pilot Study

UK

How we did it: The Framework

2075

People in the UK took part in the survey (a sample size that’s nationally representative)

Core questions around values, cross-

cultural connections, comfort and perceived similarity were asked.

Demographic questions captured respondents’ background, identity and lived context proportionate to the UK population (e.g. age, ethnicity, religion, migration history, region,etc.)

So, is community dying in the UK?

Here's what we found out:

Explore the Full Report

How it can help

Meaningful community building starts with a focused, future-oriented, and empathy-centred approach. By exploring four key areas: deep value insights, public messaging, internal security, and creating inclusive spaces - you can develop strategies that foster connection, resilience, and trust across diverse groups.

Deep Dives

Our approach uncovers where values and attitudes connect across differences. These insights can guide your community engagement, communications, or policy design — helping you reach people in ways that truly resonate and build lasting understanding.

Public Rhetoric & Messaging Refocus

Shifting narratives from division to connection is key. By embedding values-based messaging, you can strengthen trust, encourage open dialogue, and foster a stronger sense of shared identity within your audience or community.

Internal Security

With misinformation and polarisation on the rise, understanding which groups may be vulnerable to targeted narratives is vital. This work helps you design tailored strategies to counter disinformation, support social resilience, and build cohesion.

Building for Belonging: Urban Planning & Real Estate

Where people feel comfortable shapes community as much as who they’re with. Our insights can inform urban planning and real estate development that prioritises inclusive, welcoming spaces — creating environments where everyone feels at home.