Interest in the topic of ‘community’ – and how local communities can be supported to take control of their lives, services and environment – continues to ride high on the public agenda in many parts of the world. Now in its second edition, this invaluable guide provides an introduction to community development, its origins and the different forms it takes. It has been updated to reflect developments in policy and practice, as well as recent debates about the changing nature of community development itself. Crucially, it explores how community development can be applied in different policy areas, examines trends and the challenges it faces. Accessibly written, this is essential reading for students studying a degree or taking a module in this field, as well as those already involved in community development and community organising.