FAQs

1. What is an Area Forum?
An Area Forum is a friendly, community-focused event where local residents can connect, meet their councillors, and work together to make a positive impact in their area. Each forum provides a space for discussion, collaboration, and updates on community projects.

2. Who can attend an Area Forum?
Everyone is welcome! Area Forums are free to attend and open to all residents, local businesses, and community organisations.

3. How often do Area Forums meet?
Area Forums meet four times a year, offering regular opportunities to engage with your community and participate in local decision-making.

4. What happens at an Area Forum?
Each forum typically includes:

• Community networking with free food, refreshments, and sometimes music and dance.
• Updates on local projects, council initiatives, and important issues.
• Opportunities to contribute by sharing ideas, raising concerns, and helping to shape community projects and priorities.

5. How are agenda items decided?
Residents can suggest topics and themes for discussion using our Ideas tool on the Area Forum’s online page. Community input helps shape the agenda to address the most relevant issues.

6. What kinds of topics are discussed?
Topics vary based on residents’ interests and community needs. Recent discussions have included community wellbeing, local safety, social activities, and improvement projects in local parks and spaces.

7. How can I get involved or contribute to the forum?
You can:

• Attend in person and participate in discussions.
• Use our online Ideas tool to suggest themes or agenda items.
• Share your feedback through surveys and polls on our engagement page.
• Volunteer for community projects announced at the forum.

8. Do I need to register to attend?
Pre-registration is encouraged to help us plan for refreshments and seating, but it is not required. You can register online or simply turn up on the day of the event.

9. Can I suggest ideas outside of the forum meetings?
Yes! You can share ideas, feedback, and questions anytime using our online engagement tools, such as Ideas, Forums, and Quick Polls, which are available on the Area Forum’s landing page.

10. Will food and refreshments be provided?
Yes, each Area Forum includes free food and refreshments. It’s a great way to enjoy the event and meet others in your community.

11. How can I find the Area Forum closest to me?
There are seven Area Forums across Hounslow, so there’s one nearby for everyone. Check our online map to find your nearest forum and upcoming dates.

12. Who should I contact if I have questions about the Area Forum?
If you have any questions, please contact us through the Area Forum’s contact form on our website or speak to a council representative at the event.

1. What is an Area Forum Action Plan?
The Area Forum Action Plan is a structured tool designed to explore ideas, address community concerns, and deliver outcomes that benefit local residents. It brings together communities, councillors, the Council, and its partners to work collaboratively on priorities identified during the forums.

2. What is the purpose of the Action Plan?
The Action Plan focuses Area Forums on delivering practical results for residents by:

• Identifying and addressing key community issues.
• Supporting councillors in their roles as community leaders.
• Creating a framework for collaboration among residents, community groups, and Council services.

3. How does an Area Forum Action Plan work?

• Step 1: A resident shares an idea or concern during the forum, online, or by speaking directly with a councillor or Community Development Officer.
• Step 2: The idea is discussed with relevant stakeholders to assess feasibility and support.
• Step 3: Actions are added to the plan, ensuring they are clear, achievable, and have community backing.
• Step 4: Progress is reviewed at subsequent forums, keeping the community informed and involved.

4. What kind of actions can be included in the plan?
Actions focus on community-level priorities and may include:

• Addressing safety concerns.
• Organising local events or initiatives.
• Improving public spaces or facilities.
• Enhancing services or support available to residents.

5. What kinds of actions are not included?
The Action Plan does not cover:

• Personal issues or complaints, which should be dealt with directly with councillors or through official channels.
• Actions lacking community or council support.
• Routine matters already managed by the Council as part of its regular work.

6. How are themes for the Action Plan selected?
Residents can suggest themes online, during Area Forums, or by speaking with councillors or officers. The Chair reviews suggestions and selects themes at the first forum in the yearly cycle or shortly after.

7. How is progress on the Action Plan monitored?
Progress is reviewed regularly at Area Forums, with updates shared on the “Let’s Talk” page and through community engagement channels. Residents are encouraged to participate in reviewing and refining actions to ensure they meet community needs.

8. How can residents contribute to the Action Plan?
Residents can contribute by:

• Sharing ideas during Area Forums or online.
• Participating in discussions on the forum’s “Let’s Talk” page.
• Volunteering for initiatives included in the Action Plan.

9. What are the benefits of the Action Plan?
The Action Plan ensures:

• Greater community involvement and collaboration.
• Clear accountability for delivering results.
• A focus on achievable, impactful initiatives that align with resident priorities.