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Principles met

  • Co-production

    We will develop systems that enable citizens to be equal partners in designing and commissioning public services and in determining the use of public resources.

  • Enterprise and social economy

    We will promote community-based approaches to economic development that focus on supporting the creation of jobs, social enterprises and other businesses and providing an environment for co-operative and mutual enterprises to thrive.

  • Innovation

    We will embrace innovation in how we work with local communities to drive positive change.

  • Maximising social value

    We will support the development of a framework and criteria for social value, giving substance to the concept and supporting Councils with the tools to ensure better local social and economic outcomes.

  • New models of meeting priority needs

    In exploring new ways of meeting the priority needs of our communities we will encourage models, such as co-operatives and mutuals, which give greater influence and voice to staff and users. in designing and commissioning public services and in determining the use of public resources.

The Winsford Decides participatory budgeting programme marked a significant step forward in community-led decision-making for the town. The initiative was driven by a desire to give residents a direct voice in how local funding is allocated. The concept of participatory budgeting, where communities decide how to spend part of a public budget, had proven successful elsewhere, but bringing it to Winsford required careful planning, expertise, and collaboration.

To turn this ambition into reality, Winsford Town Council partnered with PB Partners, specialists in designing and delivering participatory budgeting processes. Their role was crucial in translating what can often feel like a complex democratic model into something practical, accessible, and engaging for local people. Working closely with council staff and elected members, PB Partners provided tailored guidance, ensuring the process was transparent, inclusive, and well-structured from the outset.

The programme was designed to empower community groups and organisations to pitch their ideas for funding directly to residents. This created not only an opportunity for local initiatives to secure financial support but also a platform for residents to engage more deeply with their community. From application development to event delivery, PB Partners supported each stage, helping to build confidence and ensure the process ran smoothly.

Winsford Winners

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