via Civic Imaginaries
A major research project is coming to Frome, and local residents are invited to help document the town’s civic life and imagine its future. The project, called Civic Imaginaries of Frome, is a collaboration between the University of Glasgow, Frome Town Council, and Edventure. Civic imaginaries are the different ways people sense, feel and dream about the futures of their places. This work is part of a four-year Civic Imaginary Partnerships study also happening in Chester, Glasgow, Hull, and Southampton.
Between November 2025 and March 2026, researchers Dr Michael Howcroft and Dr Ellen Bishop (pictured with their project banner) will be in Frome, running activities that explore the town’s independent culture and the ways residents connect and co-operate with each other. They’ll be carrying out interviews and workshops and will be working with Frome’s voluntary groups. Everyone in Frome over the age of 18 is invited to take part.
Dr Michael Howcroft explained that ‘there’s growing interest in community-led solutions to big challenges like climate change, loneliness, and community cohesion. This project aims to build solid evidence on whether, and how, communities can make a difference, looking closely at ideas like capacity, capability, and pride in place. The findings will be shared directly with national and local policymakers, and local organisations. Frome is the first place the project is launching, chosen for its reputation for independent thinking, its strong arts scene, and local businesses.’ However, project leaders also recognise that not everyone feels included in the town, and they are keen to hear from all residents, whatever your view or level of involvement in community-action.
Dr Ellen Bishop added, “Everyone who takes part will be paid for their time and has the option to remain anonymous. We’re really looking forward to hearing what people have to say.”
Emily Osler, Community Engagement Officer at Frome Town Council said, “We’re thrilled to work on this project, which gives Frome a voice in an important national conversation. We hope many people across the town will join in.”
Two activities are currently open for residents:
- Oral History Project: This involves a recorded interview where you can share your personal experiences of living in Frome. how the town has changed, and your future hopes.
- Community-Led Film: Work with the researchers and other Frome residents to create a film that shows what Frome’s future could look like. You’ll decide what goes in the film and share your stories. No experience or equipment needed. Full training and support will be provided by leading community-film expert, John Sealey from Fabians Films.
If you’d like to take part in either of these activities, fill in this short survey or scan the QR code. The survey has a few questions to ensure people from all walks of life are included in the research.
To find out more, visit the project website at www.civicimaginaries.gla.ac.uk/blog.
