3.3(b) Knowledge is power
Aim
To gain information about the groups and organisations that may be able to help.
You need
Copies of the fact file activity sheet 24 (one for each of your proposed contacts) and ideally, access to the internet and a phone and to other sources of information such as local newspapers and about an hour.
What to do
It is important to record as much relevant information as you can about those who may be able to help you as this will help you make the most of these contacts. Knowledge is power. This activity uses your list of contacts you drew up on the last activity and helps you to find out more about them.
a) Split into small groups of two or three and divide up the contacts from the previous list in 3.3(a) We're In This Together. Using one fact file card for each contact and using any resources at your disposal – websites, libraries, public information points, enquiry desks, literature, newspaper cuttings, for example – complete as much of the information about each contact as you can. You may also think of other important questions or information you want to add to the list.
| Fact file | |
| Name of organisation/person | - - - - - - - - - - - - - - |
|---|---|
| Name of key contact person | |
| Contact person’s details (Address, Phone, E-mail, Website) | |
| Main aims | |
| Main concerns | |
| Main areas of influence | |
| Image and reputation | |
| Possible support for us | |
| Likely things in common with us | |
| Possible differences between us | |
| Support they might give us | |
| Other information | |
b) When you have done this, present your findings to the main group. Talk together about whether what you have found changes what you now think you want from them. Look back at the last activity and make any changes you need. For example, local newspapers may well be able to offer more help than merely promoting or covering any event you plan. Or local businesses may well want to put something back into the community even if it’s not directly related to their work.
