Background
Newham Heritage Services, in conjunction with Glevum Consulting, wanted to undertake some consultation to inform the development plans for the Heritage Services Department. The aim of the research was to collect, preserve, promote and interpret the rich diversity of the heritage of Newham and its people, making it accessible to all, particularly with respect to the role the borough will be playing in hosting the 2012 Olympics.

Methodology
With this in mind, England Marketing devised a 2-stage approach that would explore the thoughts and opinions of the population of Newham.

The first stage included street surveys with members of the public in Newham Borough to gain an understanding of how important local history and heritage is to them. It was vitally important that all cultures and age groups were properly represented in the research without resorting to insensitive questions on ethnicity, therefore England Marketing worked with volunteers from different ethnic groups at Newham Borough Council, providing training in research techniques to ensure that interviews were handled sensitively to provide an accurate sample of the population of Newham.

The second part of the research involved in-depth interviews with Borough of Newham councillors to understand their views as representatives of the people and how these should be reflected by Newham Heritage Services.

Outcomes
Once the research was complete, England Marketing compiled a detailed report of the findings of the surveys, highlighting the key areas of importance for Newham Heritage Services. Two years on, and the research has been used to inform the subsequent development plans.

England Marketing provided a valuable professional flexible and efficient service and integrated well into the project team.
Glevum Consulting

England Marketings reaction time was impressive which really helped.
Newham Borough Council