Community participation glossary

Residents who are empowered to actively participate in their communities.

Making sure that different groups or types of people can meaningfully engage in your activities or environment without physical, logistical, social or cultural barriers.

Activities or approaches which strengthens the confidence and the ability of communities to take decisions which impact them.

A random but representative group of at least 100 citizens brought together to learn about and discuss a particular issue. Usually meets for a longer period of time.

A random but representative group of at least 100 citizens brought together to learn about and discuss a particular issue. Usually assembles for a shorter period of time, including one-off events.

Stakeholders (including community) take an active role in different phases of the design process, including strategic planning of a service.

Stakeholders (including community) and public sector work together to deliver public services.

Also known as co-operative design or participatory design, stakeholders (including community) work as equal partners to define a problem and shape.

An approach or way of working where stakeholders (including community) take an active and equal role in the design and delivery of the service.

An activity which seeks feedback from local people on a particular idea, proposal or decision.

A group of people who have a common interest.

A group of people who are bound together because of where they live or work.

A group of people with a shared interest or common concern on a topic who come together to share learning and improve how they are working.

Local wealth development is directed back into the local economy.

Usually a small group of community members to find common ground on a particular issue.

A process in which a community has greater control over the decisions and actions which affect their lives.

An activity, group or person which helps communities overcome barriers which prevent them from participation.

An ongoing process of activities which give people a voice and frequent opportunities to influence decisions.

Groups that have historically been excluded from engagement because of specific barriers. Preferred terminology = Seldom Heard.

Also known as participatory methods, a series of activities which enables local people to be involved in decisions which impact them.

Collaborative, long-term relationships with another actor. Can be an individual or organisation from the third, public or private sector; can be formal or informal and can involve multiple other partners or one.

Under-represented groups – groups who do not often engage in community participation activities or decision-making.

Run by and controlled by those who use the service and/or organisation.