Checklist: Supporting community decision-making
- Be clear about the community you're working with. Is it one loosely formed group or groups, or a specific organisation? Does it work with other groups you may need to involve at some point?
- Consider how best to support and empower the community you are working with, without taking over.
- Respect the views and values of the community.
- Help the community to develop governance structures, if necessary.
- Be certain that the people representing the community are mandated to do so.
- Help the community to refine their priorities, if necessary.
- Help the community to develop a plan.
- Give the community access to government resources.
- Be flexible and, if necessary, change your procedures.
- Offer guidance and advice to the community in a spirit of co-operation.
- Offer your agency's knowledge, skills and expertise as well as funds.
- Take small steps. Allow plenty of time.
