How Do We Improve Your Communications?
As Local Government continues to change, the Ipsos MORI Social Research Institute has led a consortium of local government specialists to help authorities improve their communications — on behalf of the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG), the Local Government Association (LGA), the Improvement and Development Agency (IDeA) and the Audit Commission.
The research involved in-depth case studies with all 14 authorities, as well as interviews with key communications practitioners and residents surveys in six authorities.
A small number of case studies are continuing to receive consultancy support to develop and implement improved communications strategies.
The following reports are now available:
The business case for communications
A concise review of why investing in communications makes sense, written for leading members and chief executives.
Five years of communications
A detailed report showing what the past five years (2000-2005) of Ipsos MORI research highlights about how local government communicates, and key issues and trends to focus on.
If you would like to view these publications, please contact a member of our Local Government Unit.
To modernise successfully, councils must capture the attention and imagination of their local communities. Research by the Ipsos MORI Social Research Institute has shown a strong link between resident satisfaction with their council and how well the council keeps them informed. The study mentioned above aims to encourage corporate 'top-level' commitment to promote visible changes and outcomes in communications programmes, through demonstrating the significance and importance of communications.
The project involved a number of elements, including:
- In-depth research study of 14 local authorities. The research included analysis of existing demographic and performance data and interviews with key people within the council and local area. The authorities were selected to give a good spread by type of authority and standard of existing communications;
- Consultancy support to develop a communications strategy for a small number of case studies identified as having particular communications challenges. Authorities had to commit to acting on the advice provided and research will be carried out with local communities in these areas to measure changes in perceptions over time;
- Input of other key stakeholders at national and local level, including representatives of professional groups and a range of public and private bodies.
Outputs
Ipsos MORI Social Research Institute looked for proven examples of what works and practical solutions to the barriers of good communications. It will provide practical support to those authorities committed to improving their communications. A good practice 'toolkit' for communications professionals has been released on the IDeA Knowledge website.
For further information about the project, please visit the DCLG (ODPM) website
For further information from Ipsos MORI please contact Ashley Ames or Ben Page by e-mail, or telephone on 020-7347 3000.