Issue - meetings

The Head of Communications, Strategy and Policy submitted a report which provided an update on the Council’s approach to communications.  The Communications and Digital Media Manager provided a summary of the report.

In response to a query by Councillor P Kenealy about whether objectives were being met, the Communications and Digital Media Manager agreed that six month or quarterly reviews could be provided.  This was supported.

Councillor H Drake complimented the new “Link” format and felt that this should be provided digitally.  She felt that “Twitter” could be used more in relation to refuse and recycling issues.  Councillor Drake questioned the value of Instagram in view of the low statistics supporting its usage.

Councillor Mrs D Hollebon acknowledged the use of technology in the dissemination of information and saving money but stated that the District had an older population, many of whom did not have a computer.  She felt that the “Link” should remain as a magazine and sent out twice a year.  The Committee Chairman asked whether Officers could comment on the demographics of the community.  The Communications and Digital Media Manager explained that the Council had a “mosaic” of data which it could draw on.

Councillor N Symonds agreed that as the District had an ageing population there was a need to keep a paper copy of the Link.  Councillor Drake stated that her point was not to isolate people but that this was more about getting information out and to the press quicker.

Councillor G Cutting suggested that market research be undertaken to see in what form residents would like to receive information.  This was supported.

Councillor B Deering stated that people found it difficult to navigate licensing applications on the website and asked Officers to review this.

Members noted the Council’s approach to communications.

RESOLVED – that (A) the Council’s approach to communications be noted;

(B)   regular reviews be provided to Members in terms of whether the objectives as detailed for 2017/18 had been met; and

(C)   Officers undertake market research to establish in what form residents preferred to receive information.