The aim of drafting a new engagement principle is to foster a more inclusive, transparent and collaborative partnership between the council and our diverse community.
Recognising the evolving needs and aspirations of Hounslow’s residents, the council embarked on a new consultation and engagement approach which involves training staff, informing stakeholders, deploying the necessary tools and resources to support this initiative and introducing a new engagement vision statement and a set of principles to which engagement activity must adhere to.
We are now able to publish the guiding principles which would enhance community engagement, promote trust and drive positive change.
The new Hounslow Engagement Principles will be a vital tool for strengthening the relationship between the council and the community, a transformative journey characterised by collaboration, inclusivity and a shared commitment to better serve our local community.
Principles for engagement
Our approach is based on these principles, which incorporate and go beyond the Gunning Principles.
These are guiding principles for all consultation and engagement activity in Hounslow.
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Know the evidence - we examine existing insight and data to identify the gaps and establish if new engagement is necessary.
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Make it meaningful - we involve the relevant people and organisations at the stage where they can have the best influence, with enough time, using the most appropriate approach.
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Make it clear - we are clear on purpose, process, and scope for influence.
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Make is accessible - we use a range of inclusive methods to reach relevant people, making extra effort for underrepresented groups.
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Review with rigour - we thoroughly evaluate and consider feedback, perspectives and ideas, and make them applicable to what’s needed.
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Demonstrate transparency - we show how insight shaped a decision or project, and what the other considerations were.
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Publish by default - we publish formal consultation results, in appropriate depth and format, that are linked to specific decisions.
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Keep in the loop - we update participants throughout the process and when the decision has been made.
These principles will be shared publicly, replacing Hounslow's existing public statements including the Consultation Charter, and the engagement part of the Customer Charter.
