KEY AIM: This Network will develop holistic and integrated approaches and practice in learning city development, based on the work already undertaken in the PIE and Networks programmes interacting across silos.

The EcCoWell approach argues that learning, health, community building, and cultural policies can each contribute to the well-being of citizens and their families. This impact can be enhanced if policies and strategies are co-ordinated.  Central aspects of the network will include actions guided by the following:

• Learning encourages social interaction and increases self-esteem and feelings of competency;
• Benefits from learning in one domain such as health and environment impact on functioning in domains such as family and community;
• As better measures of well-being are becoming available, the policy significance of well-being has increased;
• There has been a growing concern in some countries at mental health problems and increased alienation of sections of the population, including many young people.