I think we all agree – it’s about time to move hearts and minds when it comes to Big Society. There’s currently little ‘ah…’ factor and where is that warm fuzzy feeling when we talk about our great big blooming society. Well actually – not really ‘blooming’ at the moment.

Does austerity mean we have to be austere?

Should we ask Simon and Cheryl to find our ‘X factor’ and engage the nation or Piers to roll out a special edition of Britain’s Got Talent….because there is no doubt, Britain really does have talent.

Our recently published research into attitudes to contribution was clear and not altogether surprising. People are interested in ‘community and issues close to home’ – society seems less relevant and distant. Something Mr Cameron should consider.

Make it relevant to ‘me’ – the regular person. Make it ‘extra ordinary’.

And yes – despite the view that everyone needs to be rewarded financially or otherwise for their contribution – the majority are motivated by how it makes them feel. Isn’t that after all why people watch our blockbuster TV shows? How many of us have laughed, cried and become secretly addicted to the ‘feel good factor’…of everyday people.

Of course there are some who really do like the reward, particularly the young, again something to think about when we are asking them to rise to the challenge.

But priority one let’s find the X factor.

And finally….as we look forward – perhaps the BBC could consider making ‘The last 50 years of Big Society’…so we can celebrate and recognise those that have laid the foundations for next 50.

Click here for full details of the research.