Reaching beyond the “usual suspects”
Criterion 4 sets out the importance of accessible and targeted consultation exercises.
Criterion 5 refers to the burden of consultation. Both are relevant here.
It is vital, in the planning stages, to get a good feeling for the diversity of interests in what the Government is considering. You should consider how your proposal might impact on the wide range of private, public and independent groups and individuals. Informal consultation with key stakeholder organisations can help improve the Government’s understanding of the interested groups so that consultation exercises can go beyond the “usual suspects” and uncover new angles and evidence which can inform the development of targeted, effective policies. .
Some interested parties may need particular attention to ensure their views are heard. The limitations of reaching some groups through written consultation exercises and the capacity of such groups to participate need to be taken seriously into consideration in the planning stages. You should think about whether your proposal might impact on any specific groups (an indicative list of such groups is set out below). If the answer is 'yes', you should try to involve them in consultation, seeking ways to engage them beyond pure written consultation.
Be aware that many organisations and individuals may not be well resourced and so travelling long distances to meetings, meetings at particular times, digesting long consultation documents, etc. may not be possible. When consulting with these groups, do what you can to facilitate participation such as holding meetings at convenient times and locations, reimbursing travel costs, etc.
Also, in line with criterion 5 of the Code of Practice (The burden of consultation), be aware that some people may be asked to respond to a lot of different consultations on a regular basis. Try to find out if this is the case for stakeholder groups before you begin consulting with them. If they feel they have responded to too many consultations, ask if there are other similar groups who you might approach instead. You might also consider whether there is scope to delay your consultation until a time of year that is typically less busy for your stakeholders.
Groups that may warrant particular attention or specific approaches include the following:
- Children and young people
- Consumer groups
- Disabled people
- Black, minority and ethnic groups
- Faith/belief-based groups
- Gypsies and travellers
- Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender groups
- Local Authorities and other public bodies
- Older people
- People in rural areas
- People on low incomes
- Refugees, asylum seekers and migrant communities
- Small businesses
- Third sector organisations
Guidance on reaching some of these groups can be found on the additional information page.
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