Case Studies
Neighbourhood Action Planning: Participatory Appraisal
Horsley Hill Estate is one of six neighbourhoods piloting the neighbourhood action planning approach in the Borough.
A key element in the approach to developing the action plan has been the use of participatory appraisal (pa) involving the Councils Area Coordination Team, University of Northumbria (PEANuT), Community Empowerment Network residents and local workers.
Participatory Appraisal (PA) is a community-based approach to consultation that gives priority to the views and attitudes of local people, recognising them as the experts within their own communities.
The detailed work that was undertaken by residents in conducting the participatory appraisal of their neighbourhoods cab be seen in the document: Horsley Hill Estate Community Appraisal.
It involved some 1300 voluntary hours, speaking to over 600 people and collating 1400 responses. Importantly it identified 12 vision themes that will form the basis of the neighbourhood action plan.
A 20-minute DVD, which is a complete record of the work, can be ordered from the Area Coordination Team. A short clip can be viewed at http://www.northeasternfilms.co.uk/
Neighbourhood Action Planning: delivering real results for Rekendyke
The Rekendyke Neighbourhood Action Plan was the result of partnership working between the Council, residents and other stakeholders (including the William Sutton Trust, North British Housing and Groundwork Trust) to develop a better understanding of local needs and aspirations.
Its sets out the priorities for action that were identified as a result of participatory appraisal events, detailed research, action planning days and consultation. Crucially it focuses on issues that matter most to local people including; crime and anti-social behaviour; employment; the environment; housing; facilities; learning; exclusion and health.
The early successes deliver on of the fundamental principles of our approach to action planning – that is, action not words. Crucially the actions are about addressing local priorities in partnership with local people.