Your Citizens' Jury

Kristy's Story

Meet Kristy - she is from Herne Hill and was one of the Jurors. We caught up with her for a chat.

What did you think about climate change before taking part in the jury?

I was concerned about climate change before taking part, and frankly frustrated by what I deemed to be the naivety of many of us around its long-term consequences on our natural world.

What motivated you to take part in the jury?

I have always been hugely passionate about nature and the environment, so where better place to start in doing that, than in my local community. I hoped that by being part of the jury it was a chance for me and others to try and make a difference.

How did you find it and what did you think of the other participants, facilitators and expert witnesses?

I found the Citizens’ Jury process hugely rewarding. It was a great opportunity to work with and share perspectives with a diverse group of individuals with bags of passion, commitment and enthusiasm to learn about one of the most significant issues facing our generation. We were supported by facilitators from Shared Future who guided us with passion through the process and in addition we had access to a broad range of experts, change-makers and entrepreneurs who, whilst being honest and open about the climate crisis, also gave us hope.

What did you learn from taking part in the jury?

That we must bring local communities together to learn and consult on important community and global issues. Despite having a mountain to climb to address the impact of climate change, tackling key issues within the grassroots of our communities is an important way to start. Taking people on the journey is key to that change.

Did you feel more engaged taking part in the jury than you would from conventional public consultations?

I thought it was a great mechanism to address critical issues in a way that was fair and effective and hope that within reason there is an opportunity for it to be used to consult communities on other important matters in the future.

What do you want to see happen now?

Meaningful progress on our recommendations by Southwark Council and a commitment to be transparent and open with the broader community on progress (good and bad).

Have you changed anything as a result?

I have been concerned about climate change for a long time so I have already taken a number of steps to reduce my impact on the climate. That said, this process has given me the motivation to do even more - more cycling and walking, reducing the heating, reducing food waste.

Page last updated: 30 August 2022