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NALC holds an event on engaging with local communities through digital engagement
The National Association of Local Councils (NALC) held an online event on engaging with local communities through digital engagement on 27 September 2023.
The panel featured the founder of Chichester Social, Debbie Ford, planning consultant for PlanSupport, Steve Besford Foster, and Torpoint Town Council clerk, Camilla Southworth. They shared their experiences on how digital engagement can help local (parish and town) councils access funding, develop partnerships, and deliver successful regeneration and neighbourhood development projects.
Camilla Southworth stressed the importance of finding the correct tools and help. She stated: “Community consultation can be a daunting process, but with the right tools and help, it can be made much easier.”
Steve Besford Foster shared the advantages of digital engagement. He said: “Some benefits of going digital include enhanced reach, enhanced transparency, and improved quality and relevance of the comments received.”
Debbie Ford encouraged listeners to utilise analytics. She said: “It’s important to know your community, and analytics can help you do that.”