Pushing participation forward: SCDC’s work around participation requests
/We are currently working on a programme of activities to increase community awareness and skills around Participation Requests.
If you’re unfamiliar with them, participation requests are a way for community groups to ask to have a dialogue with public bodies about improving public services.
The main strands of this work are as follows:
Participation Request Resource Pack
Our participation request resource pack takes communities step by step through understanding the Participation Request process, deciding whether it’s right for them, and submitting a request. It provides easy to read and accessible information and integrates with other guidance for participation requests, including Scottish Government guidance and new design-led work carried out by Glasgow School of Art.
View the resource pack here.
The resource pack was based on learning from 3 sites across Scotland, Argyll and Bute, West Lothian and Glasgow (with a focus on equality in this area). A diverse range of participants from community organisations and public sector bodies contribited to this work.
Communities who have submitted requests have shared their experiences with us and these real-life case studies will be published on our dedicated Participation Request page in December 2021.
Exploring a potential appeals process
We are also keen to work with community groups and third sector organisations to explore the benefits and impacts of an Appeals Process and what it could look like. Click here to find out more about how to get involved.
Testing and learning
We are continuing to talk community groups through the resources available and how they can be used to help you plan and manage your participation request experience so you get the best out of it.
Relatedly, we are seeking to engage with community groups and public bodies in particular sites/areas/themes to test out our approaches and tools. We will be contacting specific groups and organisations about this, and are happy to answer any queries.
Support and advice
Community and third sector organisations looking for advice around submitting a request, or public service authorities wanting advice on dealing with requests can contact us for support and advice.
More information
Read more about our work on a participation request appeals process. Click for more information and to sign up.
For help with requests email: andrew@scdc.org.uk or telephone: 0141 248 1924.
Find out more about participation requests with our resource pack.
See more guidance on policy relevant to community groups and influencing services on the Policy Low-down page of Communities Channel Scotland. Click to visit the website.
Participation Requests in 60 seconds
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