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What are the principles of Community Engagement?

Inclusion

In community engagement, inclusion ensures that all voices, especially those from marginalised groups, are actively sought and valued, fostering a sense of belonging and representation in decision-making processes.

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Approaches and Models

Asset-Based Community Development

Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) is a community engagement approach that focuses on identifying and leveraging the strengths and resources within a community to drive development. Instead of concentrating on deficiencies or needs, ABCD emphasises the existing assets — such as skills, knowledge, social networks and local institutions — that can be harnessed to create positive change.

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This model encourages local residents to take an active role in the development process, fostering a sense of ownership and empowerment. By building on what the community already has, ABCD aims to create sustainable development, strengthen community ties and enhance local capacities. It seeks to transform how communities view themselves and utilise their inherent potential for collective action and growth.

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Human Learning Systems

The Human Learning Systems (HLS) approach enhances public services by prioritising adaptability, learning and human-centered practices. It emphasises understanding local contexts, embracing complexity and fostering a culture of continuous learning. By focusing on collaboration and tailored solutions, HLS seeks to create responsive systems that better support and improve community outcomes.

Methods of Engagement

Meetings and Events

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Feedback and Surveys

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Campaigns

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Forums and Discussion Groups

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Online Platforms

Pros

  • Social platforms provide easy access to information and facilitate communication in real-time, breaking down geographical barriers and enabling community members to engage from anywhere at any time.

 

  • Variety of engagement types in one place:

- Content Sharing
- Discussions
- Event promotion
- Crowdsourcing feedback
- User generated content
- Support and Assistance
- Advocacy and recognition
 

  • Data driven Insights allow you to see who is engaging in your content.

Cons

  • Time Intensive and resource heavy - needs to be done often and well.

 

  • Must be kept up to date.

 

  • Can be lost in a sea of other content so difficult to target specific groups.

Resources

General Resources

Centre for Public Impact
A practical guide to Human Learning Systems

National Standards for Community Engagement
NCVO are a membership community for charities, voluntary organisations and community groups in England. Their website is full of excellent resources.​

Human Learning Systems
Getting on Board supports people to become charity trustees, particularly those who are currently under-represented on trustee boards. 

Government Guidance
The Association of Chairs champion all charity Chairs. No matter how big or small your non-profit is, no matter where you are on your chairing journey. 

Community First Yorkshire
CAF is a leading charity, working at the centre of the giving world. They help donors to give more impactfully and charities to build their resilience so they can do more of their life-changing work.

My Community
We're all about helping co-operatives – from established businesses to new-starts – be the best they can be.

Local Trust
A chartered professional body dedicated to supporting governance professionals.

Public Health England

Public Health England have produced a comprehensive guide called "A guide to Community-Centred Approaches for Health and Wellbeing"

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