Communities are changing, but will continue to thrive in the future, says a market report.
Research by The Future Foundation suggests that people feel a strong need to participate in communities, although technological advances mean that it is no longer necessary for groups to assemble to share a sense of belonging.
The Future Foundation chief executive Paul Flatters said: "It's a myth that communities are declining, but they are changing. An ageing population will strengthen communities, and all research shows that we have a desire to preserve localness and local brands.
"Although many people rate personal fulfilment as a goal, they recognise that they depend on the community around them to achieve their ambitions."