Community Engagement in Brighton and Hove

What is community engagement?

Community engagement can be many things, from being consulted over a proposed course of action to determining the allocation of resources of a project, or being involved in the delivery of a service. 

Depending on the objectives, the issue and the community to be engaged with, approaches will vary, but may include providing access to a variety of information, support, training, advice and signposting.  It also requires access for communities to resources, funds, support and networks to enable ongoing development.

Delivered effectively, community engagement can:

• Support people to take control over the issues that affect their lives.  This can help lead to the development of social and economic opportunities to meet needs, and active and inclusive communities.
• Increase understanding about the needs and priorities of different communities.  This helps inform improvements to services, and the way they are delivered to ensure equality of access and value for money.
• Increase involvement in local decision making and democratic processes.

The Brighton and Hove Community Engagement Framework sets out the strategic aims and guiding principles for community engagement within Brighton & Hove and priority actions that need to be taken to improve practice.