Last week, colleagues gathered to get a unique insight into community and stakeholder engagement in an event which introduced Planning for Real®.
Planning for Real® (PFR) is a nationally recognised community planning process based on a 3D model. The process allows residents to register their views on a range of issues and work together to identify priorities. Finally, in partnership with local agencies residents will then go on to develop an action plan for change.
The taster session, hosted by Margaret Wilkinson, Head of our PfR unit, provided an explanation of the different stages of the PFR process including:
- How to get to know and understand a community
- Creating the 3D model
- Using the model to gather the views of residents of all ages
- Identifying priorities and developing an Action Plan.
Chiara Luxmoore, Communications and Development Officer at Sparkbrook Children’s Zone said: “I really enjoyed the Planning for Real taster session, due to how practical it was. I think Margaret did a brilliant job of demonstrating how the consultation technique was able to be inclusive of all different members of the community.”
Margaret Wilkinson, Head of our PFR Unit, hosted the taster session which included interactive workshops
Attendees heard about recent projects that the PFR Unit has delivered with case studies from Worcestershire, South Wales and even Reykjavík.
Margaret Wilkinson said: “It was wonderful to reconnect with familiar faces and meet new colleagues during the taster session.”
“In an action-packed morning, colleagues experienced all the activities which would normally take place over a two-day training course.
“I am looking forward to putting some of the PFR principles into action when I support the customer roadshows this Summer.”
Colleagues who attended the introduction session, were not just listening to a presentation, instead they actively contributed by:
- Identifying the barriers to participation in the planning process and how they can be overcome.
- Becoming a resident of Ennyware, the name of the area shown on the training model and using the fictional locality to explore common issues which communities face.
Mary Doria, Project Manager in our Development team, said: “I really enjoyed the taster session- the time absolutely flew by. Margaret introduced us to Planning for Real techniques with a series of hands-on workshops.
“With its focus on inclusion, it is clear to my mind that this is how community engagement should be done.”
Find out more about planning for real here: Planning for Real