Where the power lies – and how to change the balance
One way of understanding of power is as the ability to make or resist change. Reboot’s focus on change makes it impossible to ignore the importance of power. There are many factors which will increase or decrease someone’s ability to make or resist change. We try and highlight all these that we can think of to create conditions where everyone feels they can take part as fully as others in the group.
- Language. Does everyone understand the terms being used? Are acronyms (shortened words) being used that might exclude those who don’t know what they mean? Are we calling out language that is stigmatising?
- Information. What information do people need to take part? Is it in a format that is accessible to them?
- Resources. What resources do people need to take part?
- Format. Where and when are meetings taking place? Does this exclude certain groups of people?
These are some of the considerations we have made to address power imbalances. We continue to learn and build on this.
