A campaign has been launched to help people to get involved in decision-making in their communities by becoming 'Vocal Locals'.Townsfolk will get their chance to have their say on everything from anti-social behaviour and job prospects to parking and leisure facilities when the Vocal Local roadshow rolls into Diss next week.
A campaign has been launched to help people to get involved in decision-making in their communities by becoming 'Vocal Locals'.
Townsfolk will get their chance to have their say on everything from anti-social behaviour and job prospects to parking and leisure facilities when the Vocal Local roadshow rolls into Diss next week.
A mobile video recording studio disguised as a traditional black cab will be at Mere's Mouth in the town between 9am and noon next Friday, giving people the chance to record a message to be relayed to decision-makers.
The How to be a Vocal Local campaign aims to show how easy it is for people to have their say, and highlights how ordinary people who care about their communities are making things happen and making a difference.
South Norfolk Council is keen to gather views on a range of issues and representatives from the Diss Safer Neighbourhood Team will be on hand to explain how easy it is for people to get involved in their communities.
Eloise Ellis, district councillor for Diss, said: 'We need vocal locals who don't just shout loudest, but who are prepared to work with others to win the improvements a town like Diss needs if it is to overcome the huge challenges ahead.'
'The people of my town are passionate about it. They love it, they want a say in its future, and they pull no punches. But when we really succeed, it is overwhelmingly because we work together,' she said.
Daniel Cox, chairman of the Norfolk County Strategic Partnership (NCSP) which is running the campaign, said it was vital that people had their say to help shape the places where they live.
'I have spoken to some truly inspirational people who have really helped change people's lives, and what they've all said is that once they knew how to get involved there was no stopping them. By getting involved in decision-making you really can make a difference,' he said.
The initiative, which was launched at the Royal Norfolk Show, involves every council in Norfolk and is backed by the Mercury's sister paper, the EDP.
Visit www.vocallocal.co.uk to find out more.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here