If you want to understand what it means to have a sense of place
If you want to understand what it means to have a sense of place and how this can be a powerful motivator read Dear Faro Islanders (Observer 9/11/25) a rallying letter written to his compatriots by Eyoun Kalkstein the head coach of the the country’s football team as it prepares for a crucial World Cup qualifying game.
He shows us how geography, climate and history shape a community and the characteristics of it people. Eyoun Kalkstiein believes the hash climate and the struggle to survey has brought about a determination , a stubbornness where people pull together and never give up. “Adversity lies in our genes, our culture , our heritage .Just listen to the ballads songs, stores and music.” This sense of place has created a resilience typified by the islands traditional dance which involves two steps forward and one step back or in football terms “ we never give up if we lose today we will win tomorrow”.
I can think of many northern towns whose industrial past, terrain and weather have resulted in communities characterised by cooperation, resilience and a sense of belonging. But it’s not just restricted to northern towns my many years spent in the West Midlands confirms this. Local Government has long recognised this and attempted to harness this sense of place to tackle deprivation, promote regeneration, build community cohesion and inclusion.
The Local Authority can’t do it alone it can coordinate, facilitate and inspire. As a Director of Community services my portfolio of responsibilities included, libraries,
museums, the arts and adult education. What do they have in common other than being prime targets for cuts in funding to balance the LA’s budget ? They contribute to a sense of place, of pride and belonging which in turn raises expectations, a can do mentality ,that belief that despite our size , lack of resources, and the obstacles we face we can succeed if not today then tomorrow.
Blair McPherson former Director author and blogger and blogger www.blairmcpherson.co.uk
