Truly listening to community voices means going beyond the usual volunteers who always step forward. It’s about actively reaching out to quieter, longstanding community members whose insights might not be loud but are incredibly valuable. This means putting in real effort to meet people where they already are — at local events, parent councils, community gatherings, or even in their homes. It takes persistence, warmth, friendliness, and genuinely getting to know people while regularly asking for their views.
It’s important to reach out to the wider community, not just those who are already involved. This might mean chatting with people in everyday places, sharing simple updates in community spaces, or asking for opinions through quick conversations, local groups, or informal networks. Engaging with the wider community helps bring in fresh perspectives and ensures people don’t feel decisions are being made in a small, closed group.
By doing this, you help make sure your coproduction group is truly representative and that you’re hearing from the full range of people in the community. Ongoing conversations and check-ins keep that connection strong and make sure the group’s work stays grounded in real, lived experiences.
