Inclusive participation

Recognise and respond to barriers that affect people's opportunities to participate meaningfully.

Why it matters

Opportunities to contribute depend on access and how participation is organised. Responding to barriers may involve changing arrangements or asking those responsible to do so. The responsibility for access should not fall solely on the person excluded.

What this can look like

• notices who has little opportunity to contribute to a group decision
• identifies a practical barrier affecting someone’s opportunity to take part
• adjusts a way of working so more people can contribute meaningfully

Youth relevance

A youth consultation, group discussion or community event may be open to everyone yet difficult for some to join or influence. Timing, cost, language, accessibility and ways of contributing deserve attention from those organising participation.

Ways young people can practise this skill

• review who is and is not able to contribute to a group process
• adapt a discussion format in response to people’s participation needs
• identify practical barriers when planning an activity or community event

Connected themes

• Main theme · Inclusion & diversity
• Participation & citizenship
• Collaboration & teamwork