Consultation vs engagement
To engage effectively we need to recognise the distinction between “engagement” and “consultation”. Almost all formal processes require the community to be “consulted” but this is merely an exercise in gaining input to a proposal, often as a statutory minimum, and after the fact when a decision is all but made.
For absolute clarity we distinguish clearly between consultation and engagement.
Consultation is:
- A one way process of gaining residents imput to a proposal.
- Often only the statuary minimum.
Engagement is:
- A continuous process of actively liasing with and listening to residents and other stakeholders throughout the duration of the project.
- A never ending loop of feedback.
There are reasons why we might consult, such as where there is a requirement to do so for legislation, such as in planning process. However, in terms of how we operate and develop our objectives and deliver our services we are explicit that citizens should be engaged with, not consulted – working with our citizens as a co-production, not just asking for input after the fact.
And when decisions are made, we will keep you informed on how we came to that conclusion.