What We Do › SP=EED
SP=EED® Framework
The SP=EED Framework is the recognised benchmark for good practice in community engagement. Referred to in the Scottish Government Planning Advice Note, it provides a clear and structured approach to designing, delivering and evaluating meaningful engagement.
Built around three levels of engagement (Informing, Consulting and Partnership) and eight practical criteria, the framework gives practitioners the tools to plan, carry out and assess effective engagement activities.
Download SP=EED Framework (Free)
Strong community engagement skills are a key requirement for planners and those working in related fields. The current planning reform process being led by the Scottish Government emphasises the importance of achieving early and effective engagement with communities and other stakeholders.
Community Engagement Skills Training
Community Engagement Skills Training runs several times each year, but can also be commissioned on an organisational basis.
Upcoming training dates
Glasgow
Wednesday 1 October 2025, 10am – 3.30pm
Conference Room, Robertson House, 152 Bath Street, Glasgow, G2 4TB
Cost: £250
Click here to book your spot for the training in Glasgow
Would you like to be recognised for your skills in community engagement?
SP=EED Verification is a two-part programme offered by Planning Aid Scotland which verifies an individual’s competence in using the SP=EED approach. Key benefits of undertaking SP=EED Verification:
- develop a greater understanding of SP=EED and its practical application
- deeper understanding of the range of skills required for effective engagement including interpersonal and “softer” skills
- encourages the use of a range of creative and effective engagement tools to suit different scenarios
- offers individuals the opportunity to have their engagement methods verified by independent planning and engagement professionals
There are two parts to SP=EED Verification:
- Part 1: Understanding SP=EED
A 3.5-hour interactive workshop facilitated by our SP=EED Verification Trainers. Cost £250 - Part 2: Putting SP=EED into practice
A written reflective-learning submission based on an engagement process you have been involved in utilising SP=EED principles. Planning Aid Scotland can offer advice to assist you with this stage. Your submission will be verified by an independent planning and engagement professional and by Planning Aid Scotland. Cost £250
What happens once I become SP=EED Verified?
- You become part of the ‘SP=EED Aware’ Network
- Opportunity for you or your organisation to highlight your SP=EED Verified credentials.
To be alerted to when additional future dates are announced, please email sp=eed@pas.org.uk.
How to register
Register your interest in our next SP=EED training event
For general enquiries, or to discuss an in-house training event, please e-mail sp=eed@pas.org.uk.
“Gaining SP=EED Verification has been really useful to enhancing the quality of my community engagement work with communities on planning issues. The training provided lots of fresh ideas and a good explanation of the SP=EED process. The materials provided were very comprehensive and invaluable to completing my project”
“As a recent graduate I believe SP=EED Verification training has given me the edge to step out as a planner to interact with people and incorporate their views in the planning process”