Open Space

London City Hall provided a high profile location and stunning views as a excellent backdrop to an Open Space investigating novel solutions to youth violence.  The Open Space format enabled almost 50 stake holders and representatives from several different agencies including the Metropolitan Police, the Home Office and front-line Youth Workers to voice their ideas and interests in a new and different way.

Open Space means that issues can be raised and supported in ways that avoid the usual organisational 'gatekeepers'. The format enables people who have great ideas but otherwise might not speak to find their voice. Agendas form around items that have engagement and foster passion.  As a result, success begins to feel inevitable.

At City Hall we were somewhat overwhelmed by new ideas; 21 groups formed to develop a range of initiatives! Items were then prioritised by the group and an action agenda formed. A couple of projects kicked off straight away and new relationships and connections were made across the group.  Several other exciting conversations were 'seeded' and follow up action is underway.