Newham Citizens' Assembly
Get involved in our new permanent Citizens' Assembly
Register to join our ground-breaking new Citizens’ Assembly, to discuss how best to address the challenges in our borough.
Participants on England’s first permanent Citizens’ Assembly will have an informed discussion on the most pressing issues, to help shape the borough and make it a place where people lead healthier and happier lives. This will be an exciting opportunity to lead the way in participatory democracy, by debating the issues residents are most concerned about, and having a greater say in how local funding is spent.
How it will work
Residents across the borough will chose one key topic they want the Assembly to focus on. Ten thousand letters have been sent to randomly selected households inviting residents to register for a place on the Citizens’ Assembly. Fifty people will be randomly selected to represent the area to discuss the issue and recommend ways the council should tackle it.
If you are selected to take part, you will have the opportunity to meet with individuals from all walks of life who live in Newham. You will hear from engaging speakers, and you will discuss the issues involved in small groups, with facilitators to make sure everyone has their voice heard. You do not need to have any prior knowledge of the topics – all the information you need will be provided during the event.
Chosen Citizens’ Assembly participants will take part in Covid compliant events over 3 weekends, and 3 weekday evenings between 12 June and 23 July. Participants will receive £330 for their time and the chance to take part in a second Citizens’ Assembly planned later this year. Tech and other support will be provided to help people participate.
The outcomes of the Assembly will be presented to the council and the cabinet will consider all the recommendations made, and give a formal public response to each one.
The Assembly is your chance to:
- Debate a key issue that most impacts the lives of residents
- Discuss and work together to find solutions to the issues
- Connect with other Newham people and share knowledge
- Hear from great speakers
- Present your recommendations to the council for consideration
- Give directions on how funding available to your area is spent.
How to get involved
If your household receives an invitation in the post then you can register at www.sortitionfoundation.org/register.
The deadline to register is Monday 17th May. If you are selected, we will contact you by text and email on or around Tuesday 18th May to let you know. We will then arrange a call with you to confirm that you can attend, discuss any needs you may have to make it possible for you to take part, and explain what happens next.
Survey
You can choose the most pressing topic that you would like the Citizens’ Assembly to discuss. The survey is now live and will run until 26 April.
Newham Citizens' Assembly: Help Choose Newham’s Most Pressing Issue Survey