Democratic in structure
Participatory democracy
Since social change is about building a fairer, more just and participative future for us all, we should use models of organisation that reflect these values.
Students discuss campaign direction at P&P’s annual democratic event The Forum
So what do we mean by democracy? We are talking about an active, respectful and inclusive sharing of ideas and responsibilities between people who realise that they personally have the power to make a change.
Some groups elect members to different positions such as chair or secretary, while others share roles. Make sure you have considered the importance of participatory democracy when planning your activities.
P&P employs democratic principles as students take decisions at The Forum and students make up half of the governing body of P&P, the Management Committee.
Delegation
Spreading the workload around the whole group will help improve the strength of the group, allow you to get more done, and help ensure that no one gets overburdened. It will also ensure that no one feels excluded.
Effective delegation first requires democratic decision making . People will be much more likely to take on roles if they’ve had a hand in the decision-making of the group. It’s much easier to ask someone to work on a project if it was partly their idea.
Keep people inspired - get speakers in, do an exciting action, come along to a national event - help people to feel part of something exciting.
Some groups prefer to delegate informally - work out what needs to be done, then divide up the responsibilities to whoever wants them while others prefer permanent posts. Choose the method which suits your group.
Next Page > Informed about the issues
