The People's Panel - COVID-19: research findings

Introduction

The Scottish Government is committed to increased public participation in the policy making process. Inclusive approaches to participation are valuable. Hearing directly from the people of Scotland brings new, relevant insights in decision making and it creates a forum for people to question and challenge existing processes and assumptions. There can be positive benefits for those who contribute too, including learning new skills or knowledge, increased confidence and feeling valued.^[5]

The ‘People’s Panel for Wellbeing: 2022 and beyond’ was set up with the aim to enable members of the public to provide up-to-date and relevant views, opinions, experiences, and ideas on the wellbeing of people in Scotland. This panel specifically focused on the COVID-19 recovery period, whilst also addressing other significant issues such as the cost of living crisis and community resilience.

Three reports have been published that detail the main findings from the People’s Panel events.^[6] This particular report focuses on discussions related to COVID-19 alongside details on the background and motivation for developing this People’s Panel, how it was delivered and what impact it has had. Additionally, an independent evaluation on the Panel’s work has been published.^[7]