Decision details

To consider changes to Policy.

(a)   That the Consultation and Engagement Policy be approved

(b)   That the Consultation and Engagement Protocol be adopted as a baseline standard for all consultations and engagement activity delivered to Dorset Council residents, with any minor adjustments to be authorised by the Portfolio Holder for Corporate Development and Transformation

(c)   That consideration be given to the potential creation of a database of community groups and individuals that are frequently in contact with hard-to-reach groups, in order to promote consultation and engagement.

(d)   That the Place and Resources Scrutiny Committee be asked to undertake a review of the effectiveness of the Consultation and Engagement Policy and Protocol, after 18 months of implementation.

Reason for the decision

Prior to Dorset Council there was an adopted Consultation and Engagement Policy from a sovereign council. As part of the harmonisation work, a transformation programme of the Consultation and Engagement function is being conducted, of which the policy and internal protocol were key elements to underpin the standards. It was deemed imperative there was a minimum set of standards and defined consistent process for how Dorset Council conducts consultations and engagement with our residents.