This evening we had the first meeting of the social media focus group. When I was on Corporate Scrutiny last year we set up the group to look into new ways of communicating with the public, and for the public to communicate with the Council. Actually this issue is a lot wider than social media and I think opening up data is also a key point.
There were councillors there from other parties and council officers of all ranks and departments. We all sat there as equals with no protocols or formal meeting structures to bounce around some ideas – what do we do already, who should get involved, what should be the outcome, etc. It was really positive and people were there because they genuinely wanted to be.
We need to look at communication flows – how can the Council educate the public about what services it offers and how can the public educate the Council about what they really want?
Everyone went away to think about what was discussed, what we think the outcome should be and how the public should be involved. Ultimately I want this process to really involve the public because that’s what it is all about!
Btw – as of today I have swapped portfolio with Cllr Rachel Walker. I will now look after the environment portfolio, whilst Rachel will look after Children’s Services. I have a full time job and after a few weeks in the role it became clear that there would be too many daytime commitments I wouldn’t be able to attend. Rachel has more flexibility so it made sense to do a swap!
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