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Public engagement is increasingly important to third sector and public sector organisations. In Wales policy and legislation are driving engagement beyond simply consulting with the public, and “co-production” or sharing power is now the stated aim of many. For example the Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA) list the following policy initiatives that provide a positive context for co-production:

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• The Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act (2014)

• National Outcomes Framework (2015)

• Reforming Local Government: Power to local people white paper (2015)

• Well-being of future generations Act (2015)

• Welsh Government’s Principles for working with Communities (2015)

http://www.goodpractice.wales/audit-tools-practical-guidance

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I believe there is a widespread and genuine desire in Wales to embrace the principles and practice of co-production; yet, many organisations face constraints, including lack of resources, time, and sometimes skills and experience, which mean that public engagement is still often tokenistic.

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I aim to help organisations to go “beyond the tick box” approach, and devise engagement strategies that are achievable, meaningful, and effective.

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Although co-production is often seen as desirable at present, it will not always be the best level of engagement to aim for; consultation, or even just providing information may be better in some circumstances. For example if an organisation is not able to deliver what citizens are likely to ask for then perhaps it should simply inform and explain, because to consult on something that cannot be delivered would raise and then dash expectations. In 2001 I devised what I believe is the only conceptual model of participation which recognises that engagement may have either positive or negative consequences, regardless of the level of involvement. https://participation.cymru/en/resources/community-engagement-models/

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I am able to assist organisations through consultancy, or designing and delivering engagement programmes or activities.

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Recent examples of engagement work include:

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• Co-design and co-delivery of the “Pembrokeshire is Changing” public engagement strategy, for Pembrokeshire County Council.
   

• Annual consultations with foster carers (since 2016), for the Fostering Network Wales, to inform the Welsh Government’s strategy to improve the educational attainment of looked after children.

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