William Eichler 12 March 2020

Three councils named ‘democracy pioneers’

Nineteen ‘democracy pioneers’, including three local authorities, have been awarded £10,000 each for their work to improve people’s understanding and experience of democracy in the UK.

The announcement by the global innovation foundation, Nesta, comes at a time of declining trust and participation in civic life.

Data from the Office of National Statistics shows that between autumn 2018 and autumn 2019, trust in national government fell by 11%, from 32% to 21%. Nesta argues that the 19 democracy pioneers ‘provide an antidote to this democractic malaise’ with their visions for improved civic participation.

Among the schemes awarded funding, there is Glasgow City Council’s use of mini-publics, an assembly of citizens that are demographically representative of the larger population, to deliberate on climate policy and decide on the allocation of budgets.

Fife Council is also being awarded for its use of participatory budgeting – a method of budgeting that helps local people to get involved in decisions about mainstream service budgets. Kirklees Council is looking to build ‘democracy-friendly schools’.

Carrie Deacon, director of Government and Community Innovation at Nesta, commented: ‘All democracies are complex, imperfect systems. We need to ensure we keep upgrading our democracy.

‘We are excited that we can recognise and celebrate the bold experimenters working tirelessly to re-energise and reimagine civic engagement. These quiet revolutionaries are important actors reviving our democracy, but their work can all too often be overlooked.

‘Nesta’s dDemocracy Pioneers award is only one step in recognising this crucial work. We want to support experimentation in this field, and work to mainstream the best approaches to ensure our democracy remains fit for the future.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Revenues and Benefits Administration Officer

West Northamptonshire Council
£26914 - £27781
The Revenues and Benefits Administration Officer at West Northamptonshire Council provides essential administrative support across the Revenues and Benefits team. The role involves managing emails, indexing documents, raising orders and supporting financi Northampton
Recuriter: West Northamptonshire Council

Strategic Commissioning Manager (Markets Team Manager)

The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council
Negotiable
Drive real change in your community - shape the future of careDrive real change in your community - shape the future of careAt the Royal Borough of Ke England, London, City of London
Recuriter: The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council

Social Worker - Family Finding, Adoption Mid Essex

Essex County Council
£34902.0000 - £50081.0000 per annum
Social Worker - Family Finding, Adoption Mid EssexPermanent, Full Time£34,902 to £50,081 per annum Location
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Sheltered Housing Officer

The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council
£33291 - £34291 per annum
Support residents to live independently in safe, welcoming homes - making every day easier, safer and more connected.Support residents to live indepen England, London, City of London
Recuriter: The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council

Team Leader

Durham County Council
Grade 8 £32,597 - £36,363
Salary
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner