Participatory Budgeting Insights and Challenges

Participatory budgeting allows local communities to decide on public spending priorities. Originating in Brazil in 1989, it has spread to over 2000 cities worldwide. Triangle Housing in Northern Ireland piloted this approach, aligning it with their core values. They organized 'Vote for Fun' events where service users pitched ideas for funding. The events were successful, with participants enjoying the process and providing positive feedback. Triangle Housing plans to expand participatory budgeting to other departments, emphasizing its role in community empowerment and social inclusion.

Where was participatory budgeting first introduced?

• Brazil

• USA

• Germany

• Canada

Which international body recognizes participatory budgeting as good practice?

• International Monetary Fund

• European Union

• World Health Organization

• United Nations

Which organization piloted participatory budgeting in Northern Ireland?

• Housing Rights

• Belfast City Council

• Northern Ireland Housing Executive

• Triangle Housing

What is one of the core values of Triangle Housing that aligns with participatory budgeting?

• Profitability

• Inclusion

• Efficiency

• Innovation

How many supported living services participated in the pilot event?

• 24

• 50

• 100

• 10

What was the prize amount for the winning service in each area?

• £500

• £1000

• £100

• £250

What was a common challenge faced during the participatory budgeting events?

• Difficulty remembering presentations

• Lack of interest

• Insufficient funds

• Technical difficulties

What was one of the innovative ideas proposed by the service users?

• Opening a gym

• Starting a bakery

• Creating a man cave

• Building a library

What was a key learning from the pilot event regarding budgeting?

• Budgeting was not necessary

• Budgets were too high

• Service users needed support to include a budget

• Budgets were always accurate

What is Triangle Housing's plan for participatory budgeting in the future?

• Discontinue the program

• Expand to other departments

• Reduce the number of events

• Focus only on music-related projects