Esther Foreman
2011 Clore Social Fellow Esther Foreman launches her research Peering In which examines campaigning and its effectiveness in the House of Lords.
“A good campaigner should always measure whether their strategy and techniques have made an impact. They should also ask whether it is an effective use of resources, especially in a period of austerity. In the wake of recent events, I sought to ask Peers their views on being on the target of such tactics, and whether or not they considered it to be an effective method for campaigning. I also aimed to establish whether or not Peers perceived a difference between campaigning by members of the public, charity organisations and more recent online campaigning organisations. In some respects, this research is partly about using modern day communication methods in a historic institution, as well as an exploration about how, if and when members of the public can influence law-making in the House of Lords. The report also uncovers themes around issues-based campaigning, party politics and the amount of discordance between online campaigning organisations, third sector organisations and policy change. I believe there are lessons to be learnt for Peers, the third sector and online campaigning organisations, which could help the House of Lords be more able to respond to the changing dynamic of campaigning communication, while simultaneously helping organisations and individuals to grasp the power they have as citizens and use it as an effective lever of change.” Peering In, Esther Foreman, 2011 Clore Social Fellow
To read the full report click here