Neighbourhood Forums
Last updated: 08 January 2013 12:10
Got something to say about where you live?
Portsmouth's neighbourhood forums give you the chance to speak up about what's happening on your doorstep. Parking, crime, planning developments, policing and schools are all hot topics which affect people's lives. If you've got something to say, neighbourhood forums are a way to get your voice heard and make a difference to your local area.
Fed up of all talk, no action?
There is no such thing as small change. You'd be amazed at what can happen when people speak up. Forums have been successful in making a real difference; there are 14 forums across Portsmouth, with some securing grant money to build new games areas and skate parks, and others having a real say about policies affecting their local area.
How neighbourhood forums work
All forums have an independent chair - a local resident elected by other residents to manage all meetings, make sure discussions don't stray from the agenda and finish on time. An agenda is set for each meeting by residents on a forum committee, which means there are a list of issues to be discussed. If you want an item on the agenda please let us know in advance via the contact details below.
There can be a real mix of discussion at forums, and speakers are invited to talk on specific topics. These can be staff from the council, police or health services, ward councillors or others. Forums are non-political, enabling us to encourage fair debate and discussion to get all views on an issue.
Who can attend neighbourhood forums
An open door policy means anyone who lives, works, studies or has business interests in the relevant forum area, can join in the discussion. Just turn up and have your say at a forum meeting.Local means local
If we're talking about local issues we wouldn't expect you to trek halfway across Portsmouth to give your views. Forums are held in local venues like schools, community centres or church halls. Most meetings are held on weekday evenings and run for about two hours.
Meetings are advertised locally, and in the local press - alternatively, follow the link for details of forthcoming neighbourhood forum meetings. We make sure that venues are accessible for people with limited mobility and/or impaired hearing. However, if you have other special requirements, or need something specific, please contact us and we will do our best to cater for your needs.
Further information on neighbourhood forums
Forums are just one of the many ways we involve local people and communities. To find out more, write, telephone, email, or pop in to see the Democratic & Community Engagement Service via the contact details below, and we'll answer your questions.
Email us (or sign up for our weekly neighbourhood forum email newsletter) at neighbourhood.forums@portsmouthcc.gov.uk, or phone us on 023 9283 4059. Alternatively write to:
Customer, Community & Democratic Services
Portsmouth City Council
FREEPOST (SCE4515)
Civic Offices
Guildhall Square
Portsmouth
PO1 2YZ
Further information
Forthcoming neighbourhood forum meetingsNeighbourhood Forum Review
Neighbourhood Forum Support Team
