Where next?
Since 2016, Scotland has made huge strides in developing PB as a meaningful and impactful way to support a more deliberative and participatory democracy.
PB’s focus on deciding how budgets are spent means it is a practical way for people to have real influence, and see improved outcomes for our communities as a result.
That positive ambition is present in the policy direction set out through the principles that underpin the Christie Commission, in the 1% PB Framework Agreement, and in the recent Democracy Matters consultation.
For us, at the core of that ambition is supporting communities to have the skills, knowledge and confidence to be able to take action on the issues important to them through a community development approach.
So, while significant challenges remain across how public services are delivered in Scotland, it’s crucial that we continue to support the fundamental principles of participation and shared decision-making.
PB acts as a powerful way to see those principles in action.
Through our work engaging with practitioners from across Scotland, we believe we collectively have knowledge and ambition to continue this shared journey - and we will continue to support that work over the coming months.
