Pride in Place Programme: Mapping the Community Wealth Building Opportunities
The UK government’s £5 billion pride in place (PiP) programme is a 10-year investment in 339 communities across the country. Its stated aim is…
Simon Grove‑White is a senior researcher specialising in local economic development, inclusive growth, and place‑based strategy. His expertise spans local government, regional skills systems, community wealth building, and evidence‑driven policy design.
Simon works closely with local authorities, combined authorities and anchor institutions to develop strategies that reshape local economies around social, environmental and community value.
With a background in research, policy development and programme evaluation, Simon helps places turn progressive economic ideas into practical action. His work includes:
- Developing local and regional economic strategies that have influenced decision‑making across councils and combined authorities
- Leading skills system reviews and labour market analyses, helping partners identify priority interventions and build more inclusive pathways into good work
- Designing and evaluating community wealth building programmes, resulting in measurable progress on procurement reform, fair employment, social value, and market shaping
Before joining CLES, Simon worked in organisations focused on economic development, social policy and community‑led change. He is an experienced communicator, contributing written analysis, insight pieces and briefings to support national conversations about the future of local economies.