Engaging with hard to reach groups

Hard to reach or seldom heard groups are defined as people that are typically under-represented in the planning or development process, or in wider public life.

This could include ethnic or language minorities, people with disabilities, young people, the elderly, people with low literacy levels and people who simply don’t think their participation will make a difference as their voice will not be heard. These groups may be difficult to engage with because they do not feel empowered to do so, or due to barriers which can be overcome.

This guide seeks to help Towns in engaging with such groups.