Being part of a community can have a positive effect on mental health and emotional wellbeing. Community involvement gives a sense of belonging and social connectedness. It can also offer extra meaning and purpose to everyday life. Community and network mapping is a way to support participants to get involved in and to know their community. It is an important process as it helps participants to develop social skills and links and become active citizens within their local communities. National policy advocates for the rights of people with disabilities to integrate into their community. Traditionally, this has been described in the context of employment or other productive activity, independent living and social activity. As such, community integration is a crucial aspect of the mental health recovery process. Community and Network Mapping is an essential part of EVE's HUB Programmes. 

Community mapping gives a detailed description of the resources available to a participant in their community.

Network mapping brings the participant through what they know about the community, who they know and where activities happen. It helps them recognise or create their own individual network. 

This guide gives practical information, examples and useful reference material to help you carry out a community audit. It was designed primarily for HUB services but other agencies may also find it useful.

It will help you to:

• find out what resources are available in your community
• map all local resources and activities
• set up and nurture connections with community resources
• raise awareness and promote your service to the wider community