The Deliberative Forum is a diverse group of our customers who come together to learn about key issues, share ideas and offer recommendations. It represents a range of perspectives from across North East Water’s customer base and provides a platform for everyday citizens to contribute to decisions on complex matters.

The forum will review feedback from earlier community engagement activities, discuss different services and investments, and weigh up trade-offs. Your recommendations will influence the services we offer and the prices we set. While North East Water will consider all forum recommendations, we’ll explain any decisions not to adopt them. Our final price submission will be reviewed by the Essential Services Commission (ESC).

A random sample from those who express interest will form a forum of about 45 people, reflecting the diversity of our community. An independent company, Insync, will oversee this process to ensure a fair and representative selection. Not everyone who registers will be selected for the final forum.

No special skills or knowledge are required—just your opinions and willingness to contribute. Skilled facilitators will guide the sessions to ensure everyone has a voice, regardless of your level of experience with North East Water.

If you're a North East Water customer aged 18 or over, you can register to receive the Expression of Interest (EOI) form via this short survey. In early November 2024, those who register will receive the EOI. We’ll also send it to approximately 10,000 other customers across our region.

We want to make sure everyone can fully participate. If you require support, such as an interpreter, travel assistance, or hearing or sight aids, let us know when completing the EOI form. If selected, we’ll follow up with you to make necessary arrangements.