Residents online: opportunities for councils?

THE LGiU (Local Government Information Unit) is conducting some research into how local councils are making use - or not - of citizen-run or 'hyperlocal' websites.

LGiU Blog Editor Rob Dale has studied the research into citizen online networks conducted last year by Networked Neighbourhoods. Rob is now asking Councillors and Council Officers to take part in a survey as part of ongoing research:

"Of people who use these sites, the study found only 13% were involved in ‘formal political’ activity, 59% felt able to influence decision-making processes and 42% felt their attitudes towards local councillors had improved. Importantly, nearly all councils identified such sites as being somewhat or highly ‘constructive or useful’.

Their work showed how local, citizen-run websites bring social benefits to residents and the potential for co-production and public sector savings. I am therefore very excited to be collaborating with Networked Neighbourhoods on a follow up exploration of how councils are making use of these local websites.

We expect this research to add further insights of importance to members and officers as local government adjusts to new relationships with citizens."

Want to get involved?

If you are a councillor and would like to take part in the research you can do so here: Councillor Survey.

If you are an officer and would like to take part in the research you can do so here: Officer Survey.

An event is being held later in the year at which the findings of these surveys will be discussed. Find out more at Rob Dale's article on the LGiU Blog or contact rob.dale@lgiu.org.uk