11/06/2015 - Permalink

Another successful Voluntary Community Sector Assembly Annual Meeting

Related topics: Community / Partner organisations

News from our partners Voluntary Community Sector Assembly

At the recent Voluntary Community Sector (VCS) Assembly Annual Meeting over 80 delegates welcomed Jenny Rouse, a Shropshire lass, now working for the Centre for Local Economic Strategies (CLES) based in Manchester.

Jenny gave an overview of the economic position and ways in which the voluntary sector can influence local responses to national policy decisions. She made a poignant point that the end result of economic decisions is the impact on people’s lives, a sentiment very close to the hearts and minds of those present.

George Candler, Shropshire Council’s director of commissioning, then spoke about plans for the next three years in light of the next phase of the ‘savings agenda’, and the need for further cuts in spending resulting from a reduction in the revenue support grant received from central government. ‘Tough times ahead’ was the key message, with the caveat that the role of the VCS will be more important than ever. The key word is collaboration, and it will be essential that the business, public and third sector work together more closely than before.

Rachel Wintle was elected as the new Chair of the Assembly for the next two years, taking over from Jackie Jeffrey who gave an emotional parting address. She thanked members for their amazing support during her period of office. Jackie reminded the meeting of her highlights and how important the role of the VCS is in delivering services to the people of Shropshire, and the added value they provide.

The priorities for the forthcoming year were discussed and agreed, providing a strong focus on some key areas, including –

  • Working together, sharing commissioning ideas and establishing how different models can fit together
  • Developing collaborative partnerships
  • Raising awareness of the impact of new policy locally
  • Maintaining communication and encouraging feedback and engagement
  • Identifying the impact of the VCS and its work locally.

All in all the morning was very productive, and an interactive satisfaction survey at the end of the meeting confirmed that 95% of delegates found the meeting worthwhile – a great endorsement indeed.