In an effective deliberative process the information provided to participants, the reporting of participants’ views, and the channels by which their views feed into decision and policy-making, are transparent.
Transparent information:
- comes from clearly identified organisations, publications or other sources;
- is carefully drafted for the purpose, with input from experts, stakeholders, or citizens (including possibly via advisory panels) as appropriate;
- reflects a range of different (and potentially opposing) perspectives; and
- is accessible to all participants (taking into account different literacy levels and languages, and disabilities such as restricted hearing or sight).
Transparent reporting of participants’ views means:
- participants are clearly informed about what is being recorded and reported in their name; and
- every participant can expect to receive a report summarising participants’ views.
Transparent policy and decision-making processes means:
- it is clear to everybody involved how the results from public engagement are intended to be used;
- it is clear to participants how policy and decision-makers will use their contributions, along with evidence from other sources, in making their decision; and
- it is made clear, after the engagement process, how the public input has had an impact.
Transparent processes also take account of the potential benefits and dangers of working with the media.