Dorset Consultation Tracker helps service providers and communities keep track of what consultations are happening when and where. A quick look at the tracker will show you that there are many ways to consult in different areas and on different issues.

These include:

• Surveys and questionnaires (on-line or by post)

• Feedback forms for service users

• Events, roadshows and public meetings

• Focus groups and interactive sessions with voting

• Graffiti walls and blogs

• E-petitioning

• Electronic consultation on documents

• Face-to-face interviews and drop-ins

Local authorities in Dorset have different software packages and research organisations to help them build the most meaningful way of consulting on certain issues. Across Dorset, councils have different ways of reaching who they want to consult with.

It may be through established Citizens' Panels, community forums, direct contact with service users, random sampling through postal addresses, invitations through the website or signposting.

Regardless of the way we consult, we must always abide by the Data Protection Act and when we use external contractors we ensure that they adhere to relevant industry codes such as the Market Research Society Code of Conduct.

• Dorset County Council consultations

  Dorset County Council's mission is to 'improve the quality of life for people in Dorset now and for the future'. To help us to do this we need to understand your views and experiences about the place in which you live and the services you receive.

• Christchurch Borough Council consultations

  Christchurch Borough Council believes consultation to be a vital ingredient in deciding its priorities. We are committed to openness and transparency about our decisions.

• East Dorset District Council consultations

  East Dorset District Council has a long-standing commitment to consultation.

• Purbeck District Council consultations

  Purbeck District Council carries out surveys and consultations which help guide council policies, from one-off questionnaires to regular surveys about particular services.

• North Dorset District Council consultations

  We're committed to finding out local people's views so that we can make sure our services meet their needs. We work with a range of other organisations to consult all those who have an interest in our work or are affected by what we do.

• West Dorset District Council consultations

  We are committed to two-way communications and meaningful dialogue with those who have an interest in our success - from our own staff and councillors to partners, local businesses and residents.

• Dorset Fire and Rescue Service Residents' Survey

  You will be aware of the current financial challenges that the UK now faces and the focus on reducing the cost of public services over the coming years. Dorset's Fire and Rescue Service have recently consulted on the way their service is provided in order to inform a review being undertaken in light of the aim to reduce costs.