The Ryedale Flood Research Group (RFRG) including two Civic Society members, was part of a larger academic study. At a recent conference to present and discuss their findings, I gave a presentation about the RFRGs work and said that a vital part of its success was ‘effective communication’. I pointed out that while communication was a two way process, a one way communication was called a ‘broadcast’. I was surprised at the spontaneous murmur of agreement from what sounded like the whole assembly. Was this some kind of wonderful revelation, or perhaps recognition of a common frustration and failing?

            With today’s technology, there have never been so many ways to quickly and easily communicate information, so it’s surprising how often we fail miserably.  Of course, it is very much dependent on people being willing and able to listen and at least try to understand. Invariably the failure is in the human, rather than the technological element.

            ‘Consultation’ is a modern buzzword, which should mean ‘effective two-way communication leading to sensible compromise’, but in reality often means ‘broadcast – we’ll tell you what we intend to do and then crack on with it, irrespective of what you might think (because we know better)’. As bureaucratic organisations and agencies become ever bigger, centralised and remote, this becomes more prevalent. Effective communication becomes nigh on impossible – where do you start when even a simple phone call is like penetrating a firewall and leaves you reaching for the blood-pressure tablets after a fruitless 45 minutes. So, do we just roll over and accept the situation, or do we try to make an impact? 

            Disputes constantly occur in every walk of life, with people having their own views of what should or shouldn’t be done.  Particularly contentious issues affecting Pickering in recent times include flood defences, Market Place closure and various planning issues. Most of these issues are resolved by local authorities, so it is essential that we, as a community, put forward sound and cohesive arguments to support our case. However, as an individual, just moaning to friends and family is likely to achieve nothing. You must communicate with people who have some influence – invariably Town, RDC or NYCC councillors. That is something the Civic Society are constantly doing, so why not talk to us, or better still, join us.

            In every dispute, there will be a solution. How satisfactory that solution is to all parties depends on compromise – finding some sort of middle ground acceptable to both sides. If one side has too much power and is prepared to use it, then it will be an imposition, rather than a compromise – guaranteed to cause bad feeling.   For a satisfactory resolution, you have to be able to get your point of view across and listen to, and understand the opposing view.

            If you want your voice to be heard, make sure your communication is effective. If you don’t care, moan in private. For details of membership or activities, visit:  www.pickeringcivicsociety.btik.com  

            Sadly, one of our stalwarts, Jim Hurlock, died recently. Jim was a former committee member and newsletter editor, who continued to highlight contentious planning applications right up to his death.  His commitment and wealth of knowledge will be greatly missed by the society. We extend our sympathy to his family.

 Mike Potter.