Empowering Marginalised Communities Through Data Driven Policy Innovation
Led by DiverseCity Development Trust.
Funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), part of UK Research and Innovation, through the Yorkshire Policy Innovation Partnership and the Communities Innovating Yorkshire Fund.
See the Impact
Our Story in Action
Watch how we work alongside communities to create real, lasting change told by the people whose lives have been transformed.
Why this exists?
Across South Yorkshire, decisions about housing, health, services, safety and fairness are often made without fully understanding what people are living through every day.
This initiative has been created specifically to support marginalised and underrepresented communities whose voices are often overlooked.
We are creating a safe and respectful space for people to share real lived experience so that community knowledge can help shape better decisions.
This is about dignity.
This is about trust.
This is about influence.
Our Philosophy
A Community
First Approach
This work is about listening properly.
Not
- Rushing people.
- Speaking for them.
- Collecting information that disappears into reports.
Instead
People can share in their own words, at their own pace, in the way that feels comfortable.
- Some prefer writing.
- Some prefer speaking.
- Some prefer to stay anonymous.
All of those choices are respected.
Who This Is For
This opportunity is open to adults across South Yorkshire, especially those from marginalised or underrepresented backgrounds.
- Ethnic, Cultural & Marginalised Communities
- Disabled People
- LGBTQ+ Communities
- Students
- Workers
- Professionals, Carers, Parents & Residents
If you have lived experience,
your voice belongs here.
Ethnic, Cultural & Marginalised Communities
Disabled People
LGBTQ+ Communities
Students
Workers
Professionals, Carers, Parents & Residents
Join the Movement
How to Take Part
Taking part is simple. Click the Take the Survey button or scan the QR code with your phone. You can answer written questions, leave a voice message or record a short video. You decide what to share. You can skip questions. You can stop at any time.
4 min watch
Scan to access
Scan or Click
Scan the QR code above or click Take the Survey button.
Answer Questions
Answer written questions.
Leave a Voice Message
Leave a voice message.
Add a Video
Add a short video message.
Community Hub Dashboard
A live space where community voices become visible. Track participation, explore themes, and see how your input is shaping real decisions all in one place.
Once you begin, you decide what you want to share and you can stop at any time.
What Is a Community Data Ambassador?
Community Data Ambassadors are trusted local people who help others understand this initiative.
They:
- Explain the project in everyday language
- Reduce confusion
- Encourage participation without pressure
They do not complete surveys for others or access responses.
Our Approach
How We Work
Recruit
Join the initiative.
Train
Build skills.
Collect
Gather data.
Share
Present insights.
Influence
Drive change.
When communities are genuinely listened to, policies reflect lived reality.
Public services become more responsive.
Local voices influence decisions.
Trust begins to rebuild.
This is not just another survey.
It is a different way of working.
Trust & Transparency
Your Data, Your Voice
When you share your story or personal information with us, we treat it with the care it deserves. Here’s how we protect what matters to you.
We Never Sell Your Data
Your information is never shared with third parties for marketing. It stays with us and is only used to improve the services you rely on.
Your Voice Is Heard, Not Exposed
Community stories and testimonials are always shared with explicit consent. You decide what's public and what's private.
Fully GDPR Compliant
We follow UK data protection law and GDPR standards. You can request, update, or delete your data at any time no questions asked.
Voices of Change
Community Voices
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Amina Hussain
Parent & Volunteer
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David Okonkwo
Program Participant
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Sarah Mitchell
Sheffield City Council
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Raj Patel
Community Member
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Dr. Fiona Clarke
NHS Partner
Reach Out to Us
About This Initiative
Led by DiverseCity Development Trust.
Funded through the Economic and Social Research Council as part of the Yorkshire Policy.
Innovation Partnership via the Communities Innovating Yorkshire Fund.
Address
Acero, 1 Concourse Way, Sheffield S1 2BJ
Phone
0114 3952129
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Partners & Collaborators
Working together to empower communities across South Yorkshire
