If you are here, then you care; if you care, we want you here. 

For too long Walsall has been shaped by decisions made behind closed doors by a small number of people, largely detached from local opinion and sentiment, that have significantly contributed to a decline in residents' feelings of belonging, inclusion, and influence. 

A 2020 survey reported that just 2 in 10 residents feel that they can influence decisions in Walsall. 

We think that should change.

The same survey said that more than three quarters of residents would be willing to get involved around issues that matter to them.

Our campaign aims to persuade Walsall Council to commission an independent Democracy Commission - a review of how residents, businesses, community and faith groups, councillors and council officers can build more open and accessible practices around consultation, public involvement, and decision making.

We do not want to tell the council what the solutions are, instead the aim of the campaign is to convince them that there IS a problem with democracy in Walsall and to invest in developing solutions in partnership with everyone else.

There will be many ways to support the Democracy by Design campaign, from online surveys to in-person consultations, events to campaigning. In the meantime, keep up to date with our work and upcoming dates by following our social media channels and signing up to our mailing list.

Please enjoy exploring the website, where you can find our latest news, a calendar of events, and resources exploring not only the issue in Walsall but also how other areas have faced and tackled simialr problems.

See you soon, and thank you!

Democracy by Design Campaign Group