The objectives of this research were to provide a national picture of the consultative arrangements as a consequence of the partnerships in England and Wales; to document good practice in the consultation process; to explore the influence of consultation from the perspective of those who initiate it and those who participate in the process; to describe and analyze the challenges that face partnerships in the consultative process; and to assess how the Crime and Disorder Act consultation process can best fit into other existing and future consultation requirements. The study was based on a number of detailed case studies at the local level and with broader research at the national level. The issues addressed in the survey included the following: whether the consultation was ad hoc or ongoing; the techniques used to consult; the impact of consultation on priorities within the crime and disorder strategy; the methods used to approach and negotiate access to particular groups; the extent to which the audit misread problems of crime and disorder; and how consultation under the Crime and Disorder Act connected with other forms of consultation. A total of 263 interviews were completed, representing 70 percent of all crime and disorder partnerships. The following partnerships were selected as the focus of local case studies: North Wiltshire, Southampton, Coventry, Exeter, and Nottingham. Each case study included interviews with key personnel, interviews with representatives and community leaders and an analysis of relevant documents. Consultation appeared to have a significant impact on strategies in the following ways: confirming, narrowing, and ordering priorities for tackling crime; identifying priorities among hard to reach groups; providing alternatives voices; and facilitating cooperation and communication between partners. The report makes the following recommendations: partnerships should be clear regarding the forms that consultation takes; partnerships should learn from each other; and partnerships should plan a long-term strategy over a 3 year cycle. Tables, references