Lucy Oates Media and Communications

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Lucy Oates Media and Communications
The task Devise and deliver a media and
communications campaign to enhance community
cohesion in Goole. Timescale Need to make an
impact straight away.
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Issues to address- The economic downturn had
triggered a backlash against migrant
communities.- Anti-migrant march and public
order incidents brought underlying tensions into
the public domain. - Issue of immigration was
being debated through the letters pages of Goole
newspapers.- Inaccurate and misleading
information about the rights of migrant workers
in letters and news stories.- Feedback from
community consultation events suggests that
underlying tensions are more widespread.
Lucy Oates Media and Communications
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• Key areas for action
• Challenge the myths and false perceptions
• Present positive examples of community cohesion
• Present positive examples of migrant workers
  contributing towards community life and the local
  economy
• Ensure that partner organisations are briefed and
  that community leaders are able to act as
  figureheads for the campaign.

Lucy Oates Media and Communications
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What did we actually doand did it work?- We
talked to people- We looked for human interest
stories- Wherever possible, we used research
and statisticsto add weight- We tried to
challenge peoples perceptions (of migrant
workers and of Goole as a place to live)- We
took care not to reinforce negative stereotypes
or perceptions.
Lucy Oates Media and Communications
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Lessons learned/top tips- Make sure that all
partners really are on board (action speaks
louder then words)- Remember that you cant
change attitudes overnight- Get out there and
talk to people, within the community and those
from partner organisations- Monitor the media
closely to see what works it could help you to
identify other opportunities too- Use every
communications tool at your disposal.
Lucy Oates Media and Communications