The Relationships Map
A directory of brilliant individuals and organisations working towards a more relationship-centred future
Across the UK (and beyond) there’s a growing number of individuals and organisations working to strengthen relationships and prioritise them in their practice. But, somewhat ironically, we’re not very well connected with one another. The Relationships Map is a space for us to find one another, to share ideas and resources, to feel part of something bigger, and to realise more than the sum of our parts.
The more of us that are on here, the more we can achieve, together. Please spread the word!
Explore the map
Tips for exploring the map
Using the filter button at the top left of the table below, there are a number of ways in which you can explore those who are on the map, including:
- By focus area: if there’s a specific topic that you’re interested in zoning in on – like heathcare or academia or criminal justice – click ‘filter’ then select ‘focus area’ then select the area(s) of focus that you’re most interested in
- By craft: if you’re looking to learn about a specific craft that can help you to put relationships first – for example community development or regenerative design – click ‘filer’ then select ‘relational craft’ then choose the craft(s) you’re looking to learn about
- By type of relationship: if there’s a specific type of relationship that you’re focused on – like inter-community relationships or service delivery relationships – click ‘filter’ then select ‘Which relationships?’ then choose the type of relationships you’re most interested in learning about
Latest learning
The map not only offers a springboard for new connections to be made across the field, but also a treasure trove of insight about the what, why and how of relationship-centred practice. Take a look at our latest learning below:
Our shared challenges
In brief Last month, Mairi Lowe shared the ten main patterns of where people get their inspiration for relationship-centred practice. This month, we dive further into the responses of the 170+ people on the Relationships Map to better understand the most common...
What shapes our relationship-centred practice
In brief What inspires people who put relationships at the heart of their work? Drawing on contributions from over 170 individuals and organisations on The Relationships Map, this piece looks at the most common sources of inspiration shaping relationship-centred...
While valuing relationships isn’t too controversial a position, I often feel alone in this approach, especially in the professional context. That’s why [meeting other relationship-centred practitioners] was such a revelation. I met people who not only believe in a relationship-driven approach, but who put relationships first, even when their approach is being challenged by their bosses, their funders, their academic advisors, the general narrative of society. Even when there isn’t budget or staffing. When they have short-term goals to meet, but know that relationships will only pay off in the long-term. They apply a relationship-first approach as social care workers, in disaster preparation and response, in welcoming people from different countries, as academic researchers, and in a myriad of other ways. When hearing their stories I felt assured that my work mattered. I felt seen. I was inspired by their courage and the clarity of their conviction. I found my people.
Key concepts
What do we mean by ‘relationship-centred practice’?
Relationship-Centred Practice (RCP) puts relationships first. It unlocks potential and meets need by positioning meaningful and effective relationships as the first order goal
The impact of putting relationships first
The Relationships Case Maker brings together compelling statistics and vibrant real life stories of the impact of putting relationships first across a range of sectors and specialisms
A glossary of relational phrases
Over the last few years, many of us have been talking more and more about the importance of putting relationships first. Here’s a list of useful terms of phrases that help us explore ideas around relationship-centred practice, and make the case for it

