Front-line workers and 'local knowledge': neighbourhood stories in contemporary UK local governance.

Abstract

One of the aims of this special issue is to `decentre' a key facet of governance, namely networks. This article considers in particular the concept `networked community governance', a key part of New Labour`s reforms in local governance and, in particular, around neighbourhood-based working. This article draws on interpretive methods and analysis to explore the everyday work of front-line workers in contemporary local governance through their own stories. The article is based on empirical work in the neighbourhood management system developed in Salford, a local authority in the North West of England. Key to facilitating `networked community governance', is front-line workers' own `local knowledge', understood as the mundane, yet expert, understanding front-line workers develop from their own contextual experiences. The article explores the difficulties that front-line workers perceive themselves to face in their everyday work and how they use their `local knowledge' to develop responsive, entrepreneurial strategies.