FAQs about People's Assemblies
How many people do I need to hold a PA?
Ideally deliberation groups of 6 to 12 people and a minimum of 3 groups. However, they sometimes run with fewer people and the PA process can be used with several hundred and possibly over a thousand people.
Where do I begin if I want to run a People’s Assembly?
Read the page on how to run a People's Assembly- Step by Step AND attend or watch an assembly facilitation training.
Can I hold a PA without attending People's Assembly/Community Assembly Facilitation training?
Yes but read the manual and the script and if you are finding it difficult be honest with people present. People appreciate openness and will support you. You will usually find that there are people there with some experience and they are delighted to help.
What is the structure of the Assembly Facilitation Training?
The session aims to help you feel more confident about facilitating subgroups or organising and facilitating assemblies and we give you the opportunity to connect with other facilitators to help organise and facilitate assemblies in pairs or teams. We also talk about active listening, inclusion and allowing all voices to be heard and how to deal with difficult situations.
How do People’s Assemblies differ from Citizens’ Assemblies and Community Assemblies?
All threee are based on the ‘assembly’ process which enables people to share equally and openly within an environment that is non-judgemental and respectful – and facilitated to that effect. See the graphic below for an explanation of the differences:
