West Lothian Council has published the results of its recent Your Council, Your Say budget consultation, providing an overview of feedback received from residents, organisations, and stakeholders across the area.
A summary of the consultation responses is now available and can be viewed online:
The Council has confirmed that a fuller response, setting out all comments submitted as part of the consultation, will be published by the beginning of February. In addition, Special Policy Development and Scrutiny Panels (PDSPs) will take place during February, giving elected members the opportunity to consider the feedback in more detail. This process will inform the draft budget currently being developed by Council officers.
Voluntary Sector Gateway West Lothian has requested follow-up meetings with Council officials to explore how the third sector can be more effectively involved in these processes. This includes strengthening engagement with PDSPs and supporting meaningful third sector representation within key policy and budget discussions. Where appropriate, VSGWL will endeavour to play a coordinating role in supporting sector engagement and response.
This represents an important opportunity for third sector organisations to have their voices heard. Organisations can engage directly through their sector representatives at PDSPs, where significant policy and budget decisions are considered. Further information will be shared as arrangements are confirmed.
In the meantime, organisations are encouraged to contact their sector representative if they wish to raise issues or contribute to discussions. More information on PDSPs and sector representation is available on the VSGWL website:
https://www.voluntarysectorgateway.org/working-together/policy-development-scrutiny-panels-pdsp/
For any questions or further information, organisations are welcome to get in touch us.
