Before planning any activity, you should decide whether it needs consultation, engagement or communication. As the chart below shows, there’s a real difference between them. Assess each case on its merits.
Consultation is a two-way dialogue with stakeholders. It takes place over a set period of time and the feedback collated is used to inform decisions and proposals. The aim is to achieve mutual understanding and for all parties to able to better manage decisions that have the potential to affect all concerned. It’s important to report back on the outcome of consultation to stakeholders and demonstrate how feedback has been taken on board. For schemes requiring national a planning consent, a consultation report summarising the consultation must be submitted as part of the formal application process.
NR is sharing information and asking for formal feedback
Engagement is the process by which Network Rail involves and listens to people who may be affected by our work or the decision we make. Engagement is usually more informal than consultation, but always consider how any feedback received might be accommodated in the development of our plans.
NR is sharing information and listening to what people think.
Communication is the sharing of information or news with stakeholders. It is primarily a one-way push process where we, Network Rail, give people information or a message about a subject / issue (e.g. disruption). The communication process is complete once the stakeholder has received and understood the message.
NR is sharing information only
The outline framework flow diagram in Appendix 1 of this document will help you to define the type of discussion/interaction you will need to have with communities.