counting cows beyond twitter

Vicky’s use of Facebook• Talking to constituents.• Campaign groups.• Setting up events.• Responding to how people feel.• To gain information and updates from youth

workers about my projects.

Vicky’s suggestions for others uses

• Youth Workers could provide flexible one to one and advice.

• Projects could communicate with more young people.

• Youth Workers could be more available and accessible.

Problem

• Young people awarded a grant to produce a countywide youth magazine.

• Want young people from across all parts of the County to take part.

• There isn’t a very good bus service.• Cannot afford taxis to get the young

people to meetings.

How could social networking sites help?

Solution• Young people used an online workspace

application on Facebook called ‘My Office’• Shared articles, commented on photos and

proofs• Participated in online discussions.• Young people had a record of all their work.• Able to manage the project effectively.• Produced a successful magazine. • Application is free and simple to use.

QuickTimeª and a decompressorare needed to see this picture.

Problem• New housing development. • Experiencing lots of ‘teething’ problems.• Trouble with the TV reception, high electricity

bills and parking difficulties.• Other residents experiencing similar

problems. • Car clamped.• Wondering how issues could be raised will

fellow residents.

How could social networking sites help?

Solution• Set up a Facebook group for the local

residents.• Promoted with flyers. • Within hours several residents had joined.• Shared their experiences. • Two days later the group had over 50

members and over 200 comments. • Residents discussed and summarised their

shared issues.

• Presented these to estate management.• The group is still going strong • Issues being addressed. • The group enabled local residents to organise

a community BBQ over the summer.• A great success and has helped bring the

community closer together.

Problem• Vicky volunteers on everything. • Always getting asked to complete surveys for

her local council. • Vicky has completed several surveys over the

past years.• Hasn’t been told what has changed as a result.• Friends at School aren’t involved in any youth

projects.• They never fill in surveys.

How could social networking sites help?

Remember these?

Image: /www.flickr.com/photos/mrspiggy/3180658559/

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Top tips

• Consider the barriers to current participation.• Make it relevant.• Make it accessible.• Let it grow.• Promote achievements.• Keep it up to date.• Have a play!

Social networking sites are about fun, sharing and socialising.

Design your activity with this in mind!

Contact details

Tom Gaskin, Co-director

Tel. 075 155 635 36 @tomgaskin

E-mail. tom@countingcows.co.uk

Vicky Caswell

E-mail. caswellvictoria@yahoo.co.uk