This was different from the usual engagement approach because it didn’t rely on online surveys, one-off events that people needed to attend, or the use of specialist teams.

The report is available to read and tells the story so far; why Wakefield Council did this, what they did, how they did it, what they learnt, and importantly, what people told them.

The key themes from the conversations were that local people value:

• Our people and our district
• Green spaces
• Amenities and things to do
• Getting around to places
• A sense of belonging
• Volunteering
• Education

And in the future, local people would like to see:

• Our green spaces protected
• Good education for all
• Good jobs for all
• Supportive communities
• Even more things to do and places to go for families and young people

Click on these links to read more about the findings and have a read of the report for even more info. Lots of useful insights for our local VCSE sector!