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To many clients, the ability of SRA to plan, implement and monitor consultation is our most well known facet. We are nationally acknowledged as experts in this area and have pioneered innovative and pathbreaking approaches. Our core belief is that public consultation should be planned strategically and involve appropriate techniques on a 'fitness for purpose basis' ranging from providing information through to full decision making. There is no one right way
SRA are often called in by Local Authorities to manage consultation for controversial policy areas such as road building or waste management. We specialise in working with stakeholders and the public to develop civic decisions rather than verdicts based on individual self interest.
SRA is also well known for our work in involving so called 'hard to reach' groups including people with disabilities, minority ethnic groups, people with learning difficulties and children. These skills are also facilitated by the diverse backgrounds of the staff at SRA. We are currently researching the reasons for difficulties in obtaining volunteers from disadvantaged communities. This is an important issue since many current policy initiatives depend on input from volunteers which in many cases is not forthcoming.
We also undertake consultation with stakeholders, business people and decision makers. We are currently developing guidance on the best ways of encouraging groups from different organisations to work together to tackle cross cutting issues in relation to improving the public realm.
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