They can then be used to develop a deeper relationship with supporters, encouraging participation and activism.

A total of 12.3 million was spent on the development of existing talent, with 17.4 million going on encouraging participation levels through a range of projects.

This surely represents a more balanced approach not only to encouraging participation but also to protecting the integrity of the poll.

Different agencies have experimented with other ways of encouraging participation.

It also serves to inform students about competitions and conferences, encouraging participation in national events covering all surgical specialities.