BME VCS Programme www.bme.org.uk

The www.bme.org.uk website is currently under development. We are working to restore full service as soon as possible. In the meantime, you can view relevant current information on the BME Information Service page.

BME Voice newspaper, January issue
The January 2010 issue of the BME Voice newspaper has now been published, you can dowload it by clicking on the image on the right.

The newspaper aims to provide a platform for the Yorkshire and Humber BME VCS to showcase the wonderful work it does, and also a platform for the regional & local mainstream organisations to communicate with the sector. Download the January issue here or contact the BME VCS Regional Programme for a copy of the newspaper or if you wish to submit an article for the next issue.

BME VCS Regional Programme

Aim: To support the development of the BME VCS in Yorkshire and the Humber

Outcomes:
• Supporting the development of a regional BME voice
• Improved management and leadership of BME infrastructure organisations
• Increased information, intelligence & connection between BME VCOs and generalist infrastructure
• Increased BME groups engagement with service providers
• Positive engagement between local authorities, regional agencies and BME VCS

We are keen to hear from local BME networks, generalist VCS organisations, local authorities and regional agencies who would like to collaborate or work in partnership with the programme along the journey of supporting and strengthening the BME VCS.

Here are some of the activities you are encouraged to get involved in:
• Sub-regional events on a range of topics relevant to the sector, such as commissioning and procurement, common policy drivers, social enterprise, the environment.
• Management/Leadership activities for BME Infrastructure organisations.
• BME VCS Summit, exploring current trends and how the sector should prepare for emerging changes.
• Web seminars (webinars)- a new way of communicating and learning for the sector.
• Working with public service providers to ensure that BME led organisations are focussing on key policy drivers.
• Working with generalist vcs and local authorities to improve collaboration and consultation.
• Improving communication via a range of mechanisms i.e. the website; the BME Voice newspaper; webinars; e-groups and events.
• Proposal for a mapping activity of the BME VCS in the region.
• Responding to policy developments at national and regional level.
In addition to the above activities, there are a number of other exciting collaborations and partnerships emerging.
If your organisation is keen to strengthen the BME VCS and work with the sector, please contact us.
Tel: 0113 394 2300 or email the Programme Director.

The story so far:
• Communication – website, BME Voice Newspaper, Webinars, E-groups, Seminars, events
• Policy responses
• Commissioning and procurement conferences
• Leadership for survival training
• Consultations – survey of BME VCS LIOs, survey of BME VCS organisations, consultations with local authorities and other agencies
• Established BME VCS senior officers network – planning for the future
• Networking, building trust, partnership working
• Working closely with a range of agencies on relevant BME issues

Current and forthcoming activities:
 Webinar series
 Liberating leadership training
 Financing and sustainability for BME groups
 BME VCS future gazing
 The big environment debate
 Social enterprise event
 Policy drivers event

Job/Tender Opportunities

Policy and Communications Officer BME VCS Programme (Closing date: 31/03/2010)
We are seeking an experienced and motivated team player to deliver outcomes for a project that strengthens the BME voluntary and community organisations in Yorkshire & the Humber. The Regional Forum ...