Tree Value Visions supports the participation of individuals and groups with prior interest or knowledge in treescapes, alongside those without. The primary method for data collection is to convene a citizen panel with 15-30 members. The sessions can be run as one-off/stand-alone over a single evening (3-3.5 hours) or incorporated in a longer participatory or consultative process. 

The process can be run as part of a specific project, programme or consultation, either as an open event with self-selecting attendance, or with targeted recruitment to ensure a particular representation. The process can also be incorporated into existing structures with standing membership or recurring meetings, such as community councils, community groups and networks, or business improvement district members.

• Panel attendance is designed around activities in a cabaret format, involving 4-8 persons per table, plus a facilitator and optional audio-recording device. The minimum recommended number of the panel is 15 participants, i.e. 2-3 tables.

• Experience with prior application is that representative panels (across age, gender, ethnic background, social class) with a larger number of participants can improve the diversity of values expressed. Because the process also involves some plenary discussion, a maximum of 30 participants is recommended, though the facilitation plan could be adapted for larger audiences if needed.

• Open data on local population characteristics can be sourced from the Office of National Statistics (ONS). Use of ONS data is optional.

• The tool does not require advanced academic or specialist consultancy support and is designed for use by a range of professional specialisms. Experience and training in facilitation is desirable to reduce facilitator bias. The panel does not require facilitators to have specialist expertise in participatory environmental research and can be run by personnel with ‘topic-neutral’ expertise in community engagement, alongside those drawn from a particular policy, strategy, or delivery function linked to treescapes.

• Personal data (e.g. panel member contact details) are likely to be collected as part of using the tool, thus data protection regulation requirements may need consideration.