Local authority provision of community recreation: case study: Summer City 1991

Abstract

The overall intention of this research is to study the current state of local authority provision of community recreation. More specifically, the aims of the study are to: investigate the role of local authority in community recreation provision; identify future directions for community recreation provision; and identify and discuss particular features inherent in and vital to this provision. To achieve this, the research design comprised three research methods which were as follows: a survey implemented at a selected community recreation case study (Summer City 1991), to establish an impression of participants' opinions of the programme; interviews held with past and present Summer City organisers to discuss the issues which derived from the surveys; and a literature review of the theoretical concepts which developed from the combined results. These were: procedure for community recreation provision; need; community and community development; public participation; and evaluation. Survey and Interview results indicate that increased consultation between the participants (community) and the organisers is required to lessen the difference in perception as to the purpose and effect of community recreation programmes. Consultation would also ensure that the programme reflects the needs of those it aims to serve. The development of recreation provision in the public sector has been in reaction to interests other than the direct value of providing recreation. Few resources have been allocated to either establish the objectives of the provision or to evaluate the outcomes. The increasing amount of money spent and other resources used raises questions about the reasons for providing community recreation. Past provision has relied heavily on traditional methods for the allocation of resources, which have often been carried out in an 'ad hoc' manner. The development of community recreation is seen as a reaction to general dissatisfaction with the standardised and mass produced provision of the past. The emphasis of the provision is changing from that of a resource, facility-focus, to an emphasis on the community and the individual. The establishment of a procedural framework to guide the provision of community recreation would ensure consistent and fair services and it would encourage the continual evaluation of the service and its outcomes. The ideal procedure would encourage effective communication channels between participants and organisers and ensure the establishment of objectives, ongoing evaluation and a service which satisfies the needs of the community.