A forum for open discussion on communities and local government policy.

How to post a message

The topic spaces run in reverse chronological order – so the most recent post is top of the list.

This quick step-by-step guide explains how to post a message in the discussion space:

  1. To gain access to the discussion, you must first log in. You can log in from the home page or the discussion pages.
  2. When you registered with this site you were issued with a unique username and password. Enter these details into the correct fields; press ‘Log in’ and you will be taken to the ‘Forum’ page.
  3. Next, by clicking on any of the discussion topics the page will change to reveal the introduction to the selected topic and the participants posts to date.
  4. To reply or add your contribution, please click on ‘add new comment’ (in bold) or ‘reply’ in response to another participant.
  5. Simply fill in the ‘subject’ and ‘comment’ boxes for your new message. You may choose to reply to an issue raised by someone else, highlight a new point to encourage discussion or simply add a post about your own experiences or views.
  6. There is a word-limit of 1000 words on each post. Be thorough in your posts but try to also be to-the-point, and people will be more likely to read your contribution. It is wise to draft your posts offline before posting them to the forum.
  7. Once you are satisfied with your message, please click on “Preview comment” (in grey). At this point you can still change anything.
  8. When you are satisfied with your post, click on “Post Comment”
  9. After posts are published they are checked against the broad rules of the discussion. More information on the moderation process is available on the ‘Moderation policy’ pages.

Problems?

If you experience any problems with posting messages on the website, please email the Hansard Society at edemocracy@hansard.lse.ac.uk. Explain the problem in your email, and let us know if you wish the message to be posted on your behalf.

Please note that the site has been extensively tested and the Hansard Society is unfortunately unable to help with IT-based problems at the participant’s end.

General queries are also welcome via email at edemocracy@hansard.lse.ac.uk.