People are at the heart of every successful initiative, which also means initiatives will fail if they don't interest people.
Capturing people's interest begins with offering (and clearly communicating) something meaningful to them that resonates with their values, needs or good old-fashioned curiousity.
If the message isn't conveyed in an accessible or engaging way, even the most compelling offer will be lost. Clear communication helps ensure that your message resonates and motivates action.
Our community platforms certainly captured people's interest during the Covid lockdowns because they provided a space to offer (and ask for) immediate and meaningful support. Each day, new offers of help were added to our platforms and the take up was phenomenal. Our favourite listing was the Bodmin Bikers offering to collect prescriptions for the elderly - what an image!
While capturing people's attention is easier during a global catastrophe or local emergency, the reality is that significant social and economic issues (e.g. loneliness, mental health, poverty) are always right at our doorstep, waiting to be addressed.
On the whole, people unite around a common purpose - something that gives meaning to everything. On our Bristol platform, that purpose is "supporting volunteering, connection and kindness across Bristol". In Warrington, it's all about "living well - connecting you to people, communities and services".
Can Do Bristol
Can Do Bristol is a citywide digital platform that connects volunteers, groups, organisations and businesses to help build a stronger and more resilient city.
Living Well Warrington
With Public Health England data indicating that Warrington residents typically spend 16 years in poor health, Living Well Warrington focuses on prevention, early intervention and community-led support.
These platforms offer something for people to unite around.
That’s the first challenge - capturing people’s attention around a common goal. The next is keeping them engaged. We believe the answer to this lies in building and nurturing two essential networks: the trust network and the support network.
- Trust Network: These are people who rely on each other, who trust each other and who share experiences together. Trust makes collaboration possible - when it’s there, people are more willing to share their time, resources and skills.
- Support Network: These are the providers who provide support, services, information, advice and guidance as necessary. When they come together and stand behind their community, progress happens faster and with greater impact.
By integrating both networks into your engagement strategy, you will create a more cohesive ecosystem where people not only collaborate but also invest in each other's success.
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