• As part of a range of engagement activities, to offer a digital channel that allows individuals to discuss sensitive topics in a secure and private environment
• To provide a channel that allows those that find it difficult to have face to face conversations to take part in the consultation
• To generate insights to inform the development of future strategy for adults with autistic spectrum conditions (ASC)
• To provide a rapid turnaround channel that has accessibility features built in as standard

• Configured an online community on the CaucusWorld platform for adults with ASC, family members and carers that was widely accessible (to W3C Double-A standards) and available soon after commissioning. Accessibility options and community design were developed in consultation with COI (The Central Office of Information), DH (Department of Health) and an External Reference Group of Adults with ASC
• Hosted managed and unmanaged discussions on a variety of topics related to Adult Autism. Set up an ideas wall for members to contribute and vote on ideas and suggestions. Our community manager seeded the managed discussions, moderated the site and responded to inquiries. Also conducted polls, short surveys and a series of online focus groups as part of the research activities
• Insights were generated on an ongoing basis through the analysis of forum discussions, ideas wall, online focus group transcripts and survey and poll data

• The community has been a great success with members contributing ideas and solutions, exchanging experiences and responding to questions. The detailed and personal nature of many of the posts suggests that the community has provided a much needed forum for sharing feelings, concerns, thoughts and experiences as well as being a way to bring more people into the consultation process and inform the Adult Autism Strategy
• Community members were able to participate in a safe and secure environment, at their convenience and from the comfort of their own homes. This appeared to widen and deepen participation
• Outputs were available immediately after events, on completion of questionnaires and continuously from forum discussions

Benefits

• Reach the audiences that matter most to you, quickly and conveniently
• Capture insights 24 hours a day
• An environment that is safe, engaging and accessible by all
• Engage hard to reach groups
• Create deeper customer relationships
• Call us now on 020 7861 3243 to find out more about the benefits for your organisation