A fresh conversation about community, cohesion, and the future is unfolding in Worcester.
A new digital platform is giving residents a chance to help shape a community action plan as part of Worcester Real Conversations, a collaboration between Worcester MP Tom Collins and cross-party think tank Demos.
Mr Collins said: “Worcester Real Conversations has shown that people in Worcester are far less divided than news and social media sometimes make us think.
“When we get people together and really listen, we find common ground and can find practical ideas that might make a real difference.”
Earlier this summer, Demos hosted two in-person sessions in Worcester focused on immigration, integration, and community cohesion.
The first session brought together 17 individuals from diverse backgrounds, many of whom do not typically engage in political discussions.
The second session expanded the conversation by inviting friends and family to help shape practical actions that could be taken by the MP and residents alike.
The conversation has now moved online to give all constituents an opportunity to participate, especially those who do not normally engage in politics.
Participants can review and contribute ideas using the Polis platform until midnight on September 6.
Mr Collins said: “Now I want to open that conversation up to everyone in Worcester.
“And see if digital tools can bring us together, rather than divide us.
“Whether you agree with me, disagree with me, or usually steer well clear of politics, your voice matters and belongs in this space.
“I will share my response to the online conversation publicly, and show you how I’m listening.
“If we want politics to work differently, we have to do politics differently.
“That’s exactly what we’re trying to do here, and I hope that everybody will get involved.”
The online platform will help identify areas of agreement and disagreement across the community and inform actionable steps for both the MP and residents.
Those living in the Worcester constituency can take part by visiting collinsforworcester.uk/real-conversations.
The project is supported by Demos, a cross-party think tank focused on improving democracy and rebuilding trust between citizens, the state, and institutions.
