Asset based working in community development
This training workshop supports participants from local authorities as they examine their role in engaging communities. It establishes practical ways to enable communities, groups and individuals to participate during the commissioning process.
WHAT YOU WILL LEARN
As a result of attending this workshop, participants will:
- Acquire greater knowledge and practical experience of asset-based approaches including co-production, co-design and appreciative inquiry.
- Take away a broad understanding of the power of questions and be able to use their knowledge to shift conversations with communities to create a space that is thought-provoking and reflective.
- Gain the confidence to question and shape their current practice to overcome barriers to inclusion, enabling participation from all parts of the community.
THE PROGRAMME – OUTLINE
The workshop can be delivered in-person or online and, although the following is an indication of what is usually covered, the programme can be tailored to specific needs. The total duration of the training is usually six hours.
| Session One |
| Introductions: Setting the context. |
| How do we change our conversations? Exploration and discussion. |
| Appreciative Inquiry (AI) An overview and practical activity to build participants’ knowledge and understanding of AI. |
| Session Two |
| Reflections from session one |
| Storytelling and listening Why stories? Active listening – how to listen and not control |
| Session Three |
| Overview of other methods Customer journey mapping Open space Community and peer research |
| Pause for thought What has challenged us? What is possible? |
WHO WILL BE RUNNING THE WORKSHOP
Helen Sharp, Associate, NEF Consulting
Previously Strategic Commissioning Manager at Lambeth Council, Helen Sharp works with NEF Consulting on delivery of our training for local authorities .
Helen was a consultant and trainer for five years before moving into commissioning. She was responsible for the commissioning of play and targeted services for children and young people in Lambeth.
Helen has worked in partnership with the New Economics Foundation and other local authorities to develop and implement outcomes-based commissioning, co-production, asset-based interventions and other new approaches as a part of her role. For more information click here.
