YouthBorders has a voting pad system that enables people to quickly express their views anonymously in a public arena.   Set up as a social enterprise, up to 100 pads link to a central computer to enable users to respond to questions from a projected screen at the touch of a button, these are then automatically collated.  Initially the system was used to find out what young people feel about particular issues in projects such as Youth Chex and due to its success, the Forum decided that it should be available to all community and public groups.  The long term plan is to train young people to facilitate the voting pads at events. 

“The system is really useful in that it automatically counts how many people are voting, and collates the results which is a real time saver.  In addition, it is a particularly useful tool if there are any contentious issues that an individual may not feel comfortable answering publicly”, commented Kirsty Burnham, Development Worker at YouthBorders.  Recent clients have included the NHS, Social Work and NEAG (Newtown and Eildon Action Group).  The pads can also be invaluable for events such as AGM’s. Hiring the voting pads varies in price according to the status of your organisation. 

For statutory organisations and private companies the fee is £500 per session, while voluntary and community groups can have a discounted fee of £400 per session.  We can advise on funding opportunities for those who need financial assistance.  The fee includes training and support in the use of the system. For further information please contact Bridie Ashrowan on 01896 755 110 or bridie@youthborders.org.uk [1]