Step 8: Report the results

Why do this

It's vital that you report the results back to the participants you engage, as well as to the general public, so that they know that their voices have been heard. This can be done by providing a summary directly to participants as well as information to the media. While reporting back, ensure you explain how the information they have given will be used in the decision making process, as well as the timescales involved.

People often feel that their opinions haven't been used when they haven't been told of any decisions based on them - this is often due to the long gap between consultation taking place and decisions being made by Councils. Once decisions have been made, report these, with explanations for why decisons were taken.

Results should be published in Council papers, in the press and on websites for the wider public to see what people have said.

It’s even more vital that you make sure the results are recorded adquately and reported to the decision-makers in your organisation.

Ask

• Have I informed everyone that might be interested in the results?
• Has the data been presented in an easily understood way? Graphs and visuals are easier than lots of text
• Have the results been presented in a fair, unbiased way?
• Have you told them about the process for decision-making - and the timescales?

• Who else could learn from what has been found out?

Remember

Report back to:

• Decision makers
• Participants
• Others who need to know, including partners
• The wider public

Outcomes

• Participants will feel they have been listened to and will be encouraged to take part in further activities
• The public will start to understand the decision-making process and what is involved
• Decision-makers and others will have the information they need for making appropriate and value for money changes