Maidstone Together: A Community Discussion FAQs What is a Community Discussion? A Community Discussion is a process where a group of residents comes together to learn about a complex topic, discuss it thoroughly, and then develop informed, joint recommendations. It goes deeper than a standard survey because participants carefully weigh evidence and explore different views to form a strong public judgment.
Why is the Council using this approach for Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG)? VAWG is a sensitive and complex issue that needs solutions rooted in our community's values and experiences. A Community Discussion is especially useful because it: ● Gathers Different Views: It brings together residents who reflect the borough’s different backgrounds. ● Improves Decisions: It helps us understand the deep needs and values behind people’s opinions. ● Builds Trust: By focusing on citizens, the resulting recommendations will be more credible and will shape the Council's long-term VAWG plan. ● Fosters Safe Conversations: The process is built around safety but encourages open, respectful, and courageous discussions
Why should I sign up? Everyone has a role in tackling violence against women and girls. This is an opportunity to improve the safety and wellbeing of women and girls in Maidstone by having your voice as one of 36 residents'heard by the council. It is a chance to make a difference in your local community, on a really important issue: preventing and reducing violence against all women and girls. In addition to creating change,on a serious and ongoing issue that affects Maidstone’s local community, ou will have an opportunity to meet and get to know new people in your local area.
Is this work only focused on women and girls? While the project specifically focuses on preventing violence against women and girls because they face unique and disproportionate risks, ending all forms of violence is our shared goal. By involving all genders and ages, we aim to build understanding, empathy, and collective responsibility for a community free from violence.
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