The role of citizens as experts in crisis planning and response

The pandemic offers a stark reminder that Scotland needs to engage citizens and experts in long-term crisis planning. Our definition of experts should be widened to include citizens’ expertise, including local knowledge and lived experience. Citizens and experts need to work together and, with policy makers, co-produce long-term planning and policies which are not only informed by science and evidence, but shaped by the communities and people they affect. Citizens are well placed to gauge the impact of plans, policies and strategies on the most vulnerable in our society.