Public Participation Commitments

How we consulted residents

We asked residents to share their views during a 12-week consultation in early 2025.

We wanted to find out how we could improve public participation in local decision-making.

More than 500 people took part, through surveys, focus groups and community events.

The new commitments were directly shaped by their feedback.

View the consultation results.

How we co-designed the commitments

Using the feedback, we held 3 sessions with residents to co-design the new commitments.

Residents came up with the new name, the Public Participation Commitments.

The aim was to:

  • refresh how we involve residents in decision-making
  • make the commitments clearer, more accessible and measurable

The sessions were independently chaired and included members from:

A diverse group of residents, aged 14 to 80, from across the borough, took part.

All residents taking part were paid the London Living Wage.

What residents asked for

Residents explored the language, tone and focus of the new document during the sessions.

They called for:

  • greater accountability from us
  • a system to monitor the impact and if the commitments were being embedded
  • more transparency to rebuild and strengthen trust
  • a clearer, more human tone, making it easier to understand the commitments
  • more meaningful feedback following consultations

Residents also talked about:

  • the need to meet young people, unrepresented groups and others in their own spaces
  • the need to ensure the commitments were accessible, inclusive and available in different languages

The commitments were formally agreed by the full Council on 3 December 2025.

Thanks to all residents who took part and for their ongoing support in holding us to account.

Hear from residents who took part in the sessions

Last updated: 8 January 2026