What We Do › SP=EED

SP=EED® framework

SP=EED is a framework to support better engagement in planning and placemaking, devised and produced by Planning Aid Scotland. Download our free guide or join one of our training workshops.

Read the SP=EED framework

The SP=EED framework is the recognised benchmark for good practice in community engagement. Referred to in Scottish Government Planning Advice Note 3/2010: Community Engagement, it provides a clear and structured approach to designing, delivering, and evaluating meaningful engagement.

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.

Built around three levels of engagement (informing, consulting, and partnership) and eight practical criteria, the SP=EED framework gives practitioners the tools to plan, carry out, and assess effective engagement activities. Planning Aid Scotland also offer a community engagement skills training and verification programme – see further details below.

Download SP=EED framework (Free)

Community Engagement Skills Training

This is an interactive workshop on community engagement and how to use the SP=EED framework. It will develop your skills, knowledge, and confidence as a community engagement practitioner.

Sessions run several times each year, but can also be commissioned on an organisational basis.

Upcoming training dates

  • To be alerted to when additional future dates are announced, please email sp=eed@pas.org.uk

SP=EED Verification

SP=EED Verification accesses an individual’s competence in using the SP=EED approach to engagement. It is particularly relevant for planners and those who engage with planning and placemaking.

After attending the Community Engagement Skills Training (see above), you will prepare a written reflective-learning submission based on an engagement process in which you applied SP=EED principles. You will be supported by a mentoring approach from a dedicated Planning Aid Scotland staff member.

On completion, Planning Aid Scotland will provide verification that you are qualified in using the SP=EED approach when planning, delivering, and assessing engagement.

Key benefits

  • Develops a greater understanding of SP=EED and its practical application.
  • Fosters a deeper understanding of the skills required for effective engagement, including interpersonal and “softer” skills.
  • Encourages the use of effective and creative engagement tools to suit different scenarios.
  • Have your approach to engagement verified by independent planning and engagement professionals.

More information

For general enquiries, or to discuss an in-house training event, please e-mail sp=eed@pas.org.uk

“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”

“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”