Surveying the scene23 March 2010
Have you ever wondered just how your group is doing? Camden Friends of the Earth answered the question by surveying the group's members.
The group adapted a survey from South Beds Friends of the Earth and asked all their members to fill it in. But they didn't just create a paper version. They had an online survey too.
The group had used a short email questionnaire for new members in the past but decided to build on this.
As an added incentive there was a copy of the Save cash and save the planet book on offer for one person to be picked at random.
I was glad to see there was a Friends of the Earth group in the area when we moved into Camden. We came along to check it out. So far so good!
Nora, Camden Friends of the Earth
All in the question
The group were keen to get involved in running more local campaigns but wanted ideas for what to do.
So the survey started by asking why individuals had got involved with Friends of the Earth and what specific areas of interest they had.
The group plan to use the answers to get more active around Camden.
Camden Friends of the Earth stall at a Camden green fair
Getting involved
The survey then went on to ask if members had particular skills or experience they wanted to contribute to the group.
The group always has lots to do so they used the survey to find out if people wanted to get involved more in areas such as:
- Creating posters and leaflets
- Updating the website
- Organising meetings
- Media work
- Lobbying MPs and councilors
As a result the group have created some new roles for members to take on areas of work.
Sharing the load
They also realised that some people might find this work daunting. So they made sure to leave space on the survey for individuals to say what support they might need.
The group offered specific training and buddying to those who might need it.
It would be good to have more opportunities to develop my own knowledge - I like the informal chats after meetings and the idea of having a film night or similar activity.
Natasha, Camden Friends of the Earth
Interesting findings
Susan, one of the groups two coordinators, was quite surprised looking at the survey results.
As well as the survey being a great success she found that quite a few people who don't usually attend the monthly meetings answered the questions.
Susan says the group plan to continue using the survey - especially with new members.
Not from Camden?
If you'd like to use a similar survey for your own group why not adapt the one used by the Camden group. Download the survey.
You can also find your nearest Friends of the Earth group and get involved in local campaigning.
© Camden Friends of the Earth
