The ‘right to be heard’ – We need a new focus on giving consultees confidence that their arguments will reach decision-maker … and be “conscientiously considered”

The case for consultation is largely made and won.

True, there are progressive voices claiming that it does not go far enough and calling for shared decision-making, though at least some of this is hugely optimistic given the continuing reluctance of those in office to relinquish much of their power.

But consultation still has one major weakness. Too many people take time and trouble to contribute their views, and then feel let down when denied of any evidence that decision-makers pay attention to their arguments. One’s opinions disappear into a black hole, leaving one in a state of annoying uncertainty as to what happens next. Receiving a feedback report full of facts and figures somehow doesn’t fill the void.