The following information is taken from the new economics foundation website:

nef is an independent think-and-do tank that inspires and demonstrates real economic well-being.

We aim to improve quality of life by promoting innovative solutions that challenge mainstream thinking on economic, environment and social issues. We work in partnership and put people and the planet first.

nef was founded in 1986 by the leaders of The Other Economic Summit (TOES) which forced issues such as international debt onto the agenda of the G7 and G8 summits.

We are unique in combining rigorous analysis and policy debate with practical solutions on the ground, often run and designed with the help of local people. We also create new ways of measuring progress towards increased well-being and environmental sustainability.

nef works with all sections of society in the UK and internationally - civil society, government, individuals, businesses and academia - to create more understanding and strategies for change.

NEW PUBLICATION from nef

The new wealth of time: How timebanking helps people build better public services

"The culture which led to the development of bottom up socialism was based on mutualism. We are trying to remember and reinvent that tradition through Timebanking, reintroducing the notion of membership rather than just being a beneficiary, a client or a consumer." Geoff Thomas, Director, Timebanking Wales, author of The new wealth of time.

The new wealth of time  report shows how timebanking can help give people more control over their lives, prevent needs arising and grow what we call the ‘core economy’ – our ability to care for and support each other and to engage in mutual and non-materialistic exchanges and civic activity.

To encourage co-production and grow the core economy, public service leaders and commissioners should embed networks of exchange, such as timebanking, within public organisations, including doctor’s surgeries, hospitals, schools and housing estates. These institutions should become community hubs, rather than simply service delivery vehicles, as our case studies demonstrate.

The introduction to the full report is found on the new economics foundation website.