The Big Chat
Born from a recognition of the critical need for open dialogue and collaborative action, the "Big Chat" initiative was established to address the pressing issues of racism, discrimination, and inequality within our community.
In 2020, the inaugural Big Chat convened virtually, bringing together leaders from diverse sectors including public services, local organizations, and community groups. The pandemic, while presenting challenges, underscored the urgent need for such a platform. These initial virtual gatherings laid the foundation for a vital space for open dialogue, constructive critique, and the sharing of best practices.
The Big Chat provides a safe and inclusive environment for participants to:
Share experiences and insights: Gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by our communities.
Identify shared goals: Collaborate on solutions to address systemic inequalities.
Develop action plans: Translate discussions into concrete actions and initiatives.
Celebrate progress and learn from successes: Acknowledge achievements and identify areas for continued improvement.
We aspire to make "Amazingstoke" a model for other communities across the United Kingdom. Achieving this vision requires a sustained commitment to dialogue, collaboration, and collective action. By fostering a culture of open communication and shared responsibility, we can create a more equitable and inclusive future for all members of our community.
Fostering Dialogue and Driving Change in Basingstoke
Partnerships for Progress: Each participating public body acts as a key partner, working closely with dedicated leads from Kikoi Connection to address specific challenges within their respective areas.
Collaborative Action: To ensure ongoing progress, dedicated leads from both Kikoi Connection and each public sector partner will meet quarterly to:
Review progress on agreed-upon action plans.
Discuss challenges and identify potential solutions.
Share best practices and learn from each other's experiences.
Refine strategies and adapt to evolving needs.
Collective Review and Celebration: The annual "Big Chat" serves as a pivotal moment for collective review, celebration, and renewed commitment. This forum provides an opportunity to:
Acknowledge successes and celebrate achievements.
Share best practices and learn from the successes and challenges faced by different partners.
Re-evaluate existing strategies and develop new action plans to address emerging issues.
Re-affirm our shared commitment to creating a more equitable and inclusive future for all.
How We Work
By fostering ongoing dialogue, collaboration, and a shared sense of purpose, the "Big Chat" initiative aims to drive lasting change within our community. This is how we work.
Health and Care
Sports
Community and Partnerships
Arts and Culture
Politics and Local Governance
Education
Focus Areas