PRCA Launches Consultation Charter for Public Consultations to Set New Standard in Planning Engagement

The Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) has today announced the launch of the Consultation Charter for Public Consultations, a new initiative designed to raise the quality, transparency, and inclusivity of public consultation processes across planning and development projects. ​ 

This Charter has been developed as a flagship PRCA project to support stakeholders involved in planning applications, including planning authorities, developers, consultants, and community organisations, in delivering meaningful and ethical public engagement. Its launch comes at a time when the demand for greater community involvement and accountability in local development has never been stronger. ​ 

The document promotes a structured and professional approach to consultations, grounded in PRCA’s own guidelines. It emphasises the importance of openness, accessibility, and fairness in all communications. Through its adoption, stakeholders will be better equipped to foster trust, encourage public participation, and ensure that all voices are heard and respected throughout the planning process. ​ 

The PRCA Working Group on the Charter Chair, Stephen Pomeroy, Founder and Chair of the Advisory Board for Cavendish, said: ​ 

“This Charter represents a significant step forward in promoting transparency, inclusivity, and accountability in planning consultations. It reflects the collective expertise and values of professionals across the public affairs and planning sectors, who came together to ensure that stakeholder engagement is meaningful, ethical, and effective. I am proud of the collaboration that made this possible and confident it will support better, more trusted decision-making across the UK’s planning landscape.” ​ 

Fellow PRCA Working Group Member, Julian Seymour, Chief Executive of Cratus, said: ​ ​ 

“The Charter is a welcome and much needed kitemark for quality in the community consultation industry and we have been delighted to be part of the PRCA team brining it forward. We believe that the Charter will help our clients distinguish between providers by setting a positive baseline for the industry.” ​ 

The PRCA Consultation Charter for Public Consultations is now available for download here. All stakeholders involved in planning and community engagement are encouraged to review the Guide and adopt its principles. ​