Consultation Strategy

Community consultation is a process by which Rochford District Council asks members of the public their views on a particular issue, in order to inform decision making.  The Council uses a range of methods to consult.  For example, residents may be invited to give their comments on a particular issue by letter, to complete a questionnaire, or to attend a discussion meeting or focus group. 

Benefits to residents include:

• Opportunity to influence decisions and actions that affect their lives
• Opportunity to express their views and concerns
• Opportunity to suggest service improvements Increased understanding and involvement with the Council

Benefits to Council include:

• Better decision making
• Better understanding of the needs of local people
• Early warning of potential problems
• Opportunity to make services more relevant and effective