Ethos Public Relations Manchester

Soccer or Socrates? Mental gymnastics for non-footballers!

by Ethos public relations

Delegates at the Harrogate Conference this week could find themselves taking part in a philosophical enquiry session as roving community reporters from Contour Housing Group seek their opinion about ‘The Big Society.”

The reporters are part of a group of people which has been employed by Contour via the Future Jobs Fund. Fifteen people have been employed for 6 months to train as community reporters and philosophers. They are learning how to engage with local communities using interviewing, video, social media and communication techniques.  Skills that should help them find longer term employment across many industry sectors.

Vicky Carroll Assistant Director of Regeneration for Contour said: “We are looking for lots of comment about The Big Society which will be compiled into a ‘vox pop’ and uploaded on to www.veryphilosophical.com, Contour’s Philosophical Enquiry website.

“If you are approached by our community reporters, please take part in these short interviews as we are keen to compile a review of The Big Society from people working in and with the sector.”

Visitors keen to take part in a full philosophical enquiry session; can join Contour Housing Group on Wednesday afternoon at a think tank spotlight session which asks:  Soccer or Socrates?  Mental gymnastics for non-footballers!

“Contour’s Philosophical Enquiry is a great way to build community cohesion, encourage resident participation, promote staff development and assist with the decision making process,” said Vicky. “It’s also great fun.”

If you don’t get chance to talk to a community reporter you can take part in the debate by going to www.veryphilosophical.com, or by texting VERYPHIL to 07884 395 709 or via twitter at twitter.com/soccervsocrates.

Soccer or Socrates is Wednesday 23rd June, 3.45 pm, Level 5 of the Conference Centre.

Posted at 21^st June 2010