Go to recipes A-Z
Unfortunately, there is no standard out of the box community planning blueprint. As each area is uniquely shaped by its people, culture and surroundings, the approach will be different for every community or neighbourhood.
VP groups can pick and choose recipes that would work best for their communities.
This cookbook which is constantly being updated, lists various recipes from A-Z on how to undertake community planning
How do you get started with community planning?
Back to recipes A-Z
Key elements of community-led planning
1. Strong leadership
Planning should be led by a group from the community that has credibility with the different sections of the community. The group must balance the interest of all stakeholders.
2. Community engagement
The community or locality should be involved in every step of the planning process. Isolated groups should be given a voice.
3. Strong evidence base
An effective plan is based on the views of the people which are grounded in evidence of real issues and aspirations.
4. Vision
A clear vision for the future will inform the way ahead. It should be grounded and must relate to opportunities and the the local context.
5. Action plans
the vision should be translated into a an action plan with clear objectives and priorities.
Planning for community engagement
build relationships with existing community groups and citizens
develop knowledge and capcity about the locality
research the area and communities, understand what else is happening, what will motivate people and what issues exist
communicate as widely as possible to raise awareness and gain momentum. explain the engagement process and why its important to participate
engage as early as posisble and set out a clear timetable for engagement and feedback
manage and monitor engagement and peoples' involvement by building a database
inform people of the decisions
be inclusive to ensure everyone has a chance to participate especially the marginlasied and isolated sectors
continue relationships with community groups and individulas making sure they are well informed and kept updated.
For more information about community engagement, you can visit and download the Good Pracrtice Guide to Public Engagement in Development Schemes