8. When to engage
Engagement will normally be carried out (amongst other times):
- When looking at changing the ways our services are delivered to customers
- When deciding upon priorities for the area and the Council for future years
- When working with partners or communities in relation to proposals for an area
- On amended or new council policies where appropriate with relevant groups
- On local level issues, such as what equipment should be put into a playing field in Axminster or what facilities should be provided in Cranbrook
- When a decision or change could have a negative impact on people with protected equalities characteristics
- We have a Duty of Best Value so when we are reviewing service provision we have to consult
Do not engage:
- If the decisions have already been made on what you are proposing to ask people about
- If the results are not going to be used
- If we cannot deliver what we are asking
- If there are previous similar up to date engagement results
- If the appropriate resources, including financial resources, are not available
- If the urgency of the issue is such that the public interest lies in addressing the issue straight away
- Some regulatory matters where statutory processes must be followed