Shaping the future of public participation: what you told us

Published: Monday 11 August 2025

Earlier this year, we asked residents to share their views on how we can improve public participation in local decision-making. The consultation, part of our ongoing commitment to become a more transparent and listening Council following the Grenfell tragedy and Inquiry recommendations, has now closed and your feedback has been received.

More than 500 people took part, through surveys, focus groups and community events. Thank you to everyone who contributed.

Key findings from the consultation:

  • residents care about influence: 86 per cent said it’s important that local people have a say in major decisions - only 38 per cent feel they currently do.
  • trust and transparency are critical: The most common request was for clearer communication, more honest dialogue, and regular updates on how input is used.
  • involving local people in decisions: 72 per cent said they wanted to be involved in decisions relating to changes to local services generally, even if they don't use them much, followed by 68 per cent who said policies affecting the whole borough and 63 per cent said matters that have a significant impact across specific neighbourhoods.
  • digital isn’t enough: While online tools are useful, many want more face-to-face engagement, especially in neighbourhoods and at community events. Participants asked for more inclusive methods - from accessible venues to translated materials and support with transport or childcare.
  • more visible leadership: Residents want Council staff and councillors to be more present in the community - in parks, libraries, markets and meetings - not just online.
  • feedback must close the loop: 75 per cent said the best way to show we are listening is by feeding back directly to participants and explaining how decisions were shaped by their views. And 58 per cent said they would get involved if they believed change is possible and worth the effort.
  • non-traditional forms of engagement: Younger and ethnically diverse residents were more likely to want further involvement and were more engaged through non-traditional formats like postcards, social media and community partnerships. 

Next steps

Using your consultation feedback, the Charter is now being co-designed with a diverse group of residents. The first of three co-design sessions were held recently - the beginning of a genuine collaboration between the Council and our community to refresh how we involve residents in decision-making.

A shorter, more user-friendly version of the Charter will also be developed, and we will continue to report on how participation is shaping decisions. Our regular “You Said, We Did” updates will show you the difference your voice makes.

Cllr Sarah Addenbrooke, lead member for communities said: “We are grateful to everyone who gave and continues to give their time and insight. Your feedback makes it clear that trust, transparency and real partnership must be at the heart of how we work. This is the foundation of our campaign Your Community, Your Voice - and the next phase of our Charter will be shaped with you, not just for you.

I attended the first co-design session with our panel and the enthusiasm and commitment to helping us get this right was evident in the room. I’m excited to see an updated Charter that reflects the need for early involvement, clearer communication, and more inclusive engagement.” 

You can read the full report on our Consultation and Engagement Hub. If you would like the report in an alternative format, please email [email protected] or call 07814 361723.

Get involved

If you want to help shape local decisions