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Social Audits
Just as a financial audit verifies how money is being spent, a social audit verifies how programmes and services are being carried out, with the goal of making them better and more reflective of social, environmental, and community objectives. A social audit involves a systematic evaluation of public records and user feedback.
Forum Theatre
Forum theatre – also known as Boal’s Theatre, Theatre of the Oppressed, or Theatre for Development – uses theatre to achieve social aims, and is often undertaken by socially excluded or disempowered groups. It is an interactive form of theatre that engages the audience in exploring different options for dealing with a problem or issue.
Study Groups
Study groups, or study circles, provide a collaborative and democratic approach to addressing important public issues. They are often used as a tool for social and community development, as advocated by Everyday Democracy – a U.S.-based civil society organisation.
Local and Global Civic Innovation Tools
Top Tips For Civic Innovation
Be clear about who you want to engage with and why
There are many democratic institutions in Northern Ireland (local Councils, local and regional service providers, government departments), and therefore many tiers of decision making.
Build numbers – if you have to!
You don’t have to involve everyone in every issue all the time. But for some issues, building a critical mass and getting as many people engaged as possible is essential.
Bring them to you
Equally, it is important for decision makers to see and get a feel for your community, your group and your issues.