Agenda item

The Committee received and considered the report of the Communications & Community Engagement Officer (C&CEO).

The Committee received and considered the report of the Communications & Community Engagement Officer (C&CEO).

Members welcomed the report, which provided an update on the delivery of the annual newsletter and outlined communications initiatives, including the proposed launch of a Town Council WhatsApp Channel and the potential introduction of an externally produced Town Guide.

The Committee discussed the low level of engagement with the annual survey amongst residents under 40 years of age. It was noted that many younger people did not regularly access Council services or engage with the Council's newsletter. Members considered alternative methods of engagement, including working with Rotaract, repeating the survey at the Town Carnival using display boards, involving the Youth Council, and promoting surveys through advertising before film screenings at the Corn Exchange. The Committee also reviewed comments received through the recent youth survey.

The Committee endorsed the creation of a Council WhatsApp Channel as a one-way communication tool for sharing information with residents. Members noted that the channel would require minimal additional officer resources and could provide an effective means of disseminating Council news and updates. It was agreed that appropriate protocols would be required regarding content and use.

Members also discussed opportunities to collaborate on a Town Guide. Suggestions included the inclusion of a town map, visitor information, Council services, details of Council responsibilities and precept expenditure, local events, and community information. The Committee noted that the publication was advertising-led and produced at no cost to the Council. Members considered that the guide could provide a valuable resource for residents, tourists, and visitors, and that contributions could be sought from the Town Centre Forum and the Chamber of Commerce as part of the Visit Witney project. Officers were requested to explore the scope for developing the guide further and report back to a future meeting.

Recommended:

1.          That, the report be noted and;

2.          That, further engagement suggestions as outlined, including the provision of the Council’s survey at Witney Carnival be explored and;

3.          That, the town council’s WhatsApp channel be officially launched and;

4.          That, in consultation with the Chair & Vice Chair of the Committee, officers investigate the biannual town guide proposal further and sign-up, if appropriate.