Have you set clear objectives for your community consultation or participation?
Have you identified the appropriate level on the ladder of participation?
Have you defined what it is you want to know?
Are you clear about why you want the information and what you are trying to achieve?
Are you clear about the scope for making changes as a result of your consultation?
Will the results of your consultation influence the decision making process and/or service delivery?
Do you have the commitment of those able to make change?
Have you checked the consultations database?

If NO to any questions, reconsider what you need to do to turn them into a YES. If they remain NO, do not consult

Have you defined who your target audience is for the consultation ?
E.g. Local people, service users, defined communities or sections of the community, other organisations, businesses, voluntary groups, front line staff.
Have you given thought about how you might involve harder to reach groups? e.g. young people, those refused a service

If NO think about these issues before going further

When do you need the information you aim to collect ?
Is it feasible to consult within the timescale?

If NO do not consult

What financial resources are available for the consultation?
What staff time is available for the consultation?
What staff skills are available for the consultation?
What resources are required to provide feedback to local people / participants?

Have you referred to Sections C and D of this guide in order to assess available methods of consultation?
Have you found a method that meets your needs, resources and time scales?Have you identified the individuals or groups you will consult with?

If you don’t have the resources to carry out your ideal consultation you need to amend your plans or obtain more resources.

Make sure that the information you have collected is used in decision making.
Make sure that you inform participants about the results of the consultation and associated changes in policy and service delivery.

• Have the desired outcomes been achieved
• Has it influenced or led to changes in policy and / or service delivery?
• Has it changed the relationship between you and your service users?
• What has been the impact on satisfaction with services?
• What lessons have you learned that may change the way in which you consult next time?