Regional Forum News

Ed Miliband joins cabinet in latest reshuffle

Mon, 06 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Doncaster North MP Ed Miliband has joined his brother David amongst the senior ranks of Gordon Browns government after a weekend of changes forced by the departure of Des Browne MP, Baroness Ashton and Transport Secretary Ruth Kelly. Ed has long been a member of Gordon Brown's inner circle of special advisers. He was previously the parliamentary secretary at the Cabinet Office and now takes charge of a newly created department, taking over energy policy from DBERR and climate change from Defra. He also had the job writing Labour's next election manifesto. They are the first brothers to sit in cabinet for more than 80 years. Another Doncaster MP, Caroline Flint will now be Minister of State (Europe) at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. A full list of the new Cabinet is available from the link below.

Formation of a new Regional Citizenship Learning Alliance

Mon, 06 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0200

The Regional Empowerment Partnership is supporting the development of a new network - the Active Citizenship Learning Alliance. It will be of interest to all those who are involved in designing and delivering formal and informal learning programmes which focus on activism, practical politics, getting involved and capacity building. The aim of the network will be to support organisations in these areas of work and find ways of supporting learners who have been involved in citizenship programmes. For more information or to get involved contact: Ted Hartley

Brennan appointed as voluntary sector minister

Mon, 06 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Kevin Brennan, MP for Cardiff West, has been appointed the new Minister for the Third Sector. Mr Brennan was formerly a parliamentary under-secretary at the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF). He replaces Phil Hope MP, who has been promoted to minister of state at the Department of Health. Brennan's responsibilities at the DCSF included the third sector, child protection, children in care, asylum-seeking children, school food and youth sport.

Annual Population Survey: New Household Datasets and Analyses

Thu, 02 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0200

The Office of National Statistics (ONS) has published the Annual Population Survey (APS) household datasets. It can be extremely useful to analyse labour market data at a household rather than individual level, as the employment status of individuals can impact on the other members of their household. Households that include at least one working-age person but with no one in employment are described as being 'workless'. The number of workless households in an area can indicate concentrations of poverty. Conversely, some households have all working-age persons in employment, and these are described as 'work-rich'. Together workless and work-rich households account for nearly three-quarters of all working-age households. These datasets are available for January-December 2004, 2005, 2006 & 2007. They have a larger sample size than the Labour Force Survey (LFS) household dataset and therefore can be used for sub-national estimates on family and household labour statistics. On this webpage is an article giving examples of the analysis that can be done. There is also a map and data for percentages of workless households by local authority in Great Britain for 2007. http://www.statistics.gov.uk/statbase/Product.asp?vlnk=15150

Commission for Rural Communities - Interim report on the impacts of the 'Credit Crunch'

Thu, 02 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0200

The Commission for Rural Communities has published it's interim report on the impacts of the 'Credit Crunch'. The full report with full analysis will be available shortly. To view the interim report visit: Interim Report

Updated advice on volunteering while on benefits

Thu, 02 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Jobcentre Plus has published renewed guidance on volunteering whilst on benefits, following a government commitment to the Commission on the Future of Volunteering earlier this year. To view the new guidelines visit: Volunteering whilst on benefits

Everyclick and Clear Channel Outdoor launch the UKs largest competition for charities

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Everyclick and Clear Channel Outdoor have launched the 2009 Everyclick Charities Challenge, a competition that encourages charities to boost their fundraising efforts whilst competing to win the largest charity competition prize in the UK - a high-profile advertising campaign across 1,500 Clear Channel Outdoor sites, providing estimated opportunities to view 192 million times. Charities of all sizes can register to compete at http://www.everyclick.com/awards. The competition starts on 15th October 2008. This is an outstanding opportunity for charities to win invaluable advertising and exposure for their campaign. Last years winners, Diabetes UK saw a three-fold increase in take-up of the Diabetes Type 2 risk assessment test as a result of their poster campaign.

'Communities in the driving seat' - Blears unveils new round of pilots

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 00:00:00 +0200

New steps have been announced as part of a nationwide drive to put more power into the hands of local people. This comes ahead of legislation later this year to 'put communities in control'. Communities Secretary, Hazel Blears announced: Twelve 'participatory budgeting' or 'community kitties' pilot areas, actively engaging with local people in how public money is spent. These pilot areas will now work with the help and guidance of the Participatory Budgeting unit, letting their communities choose from 'dragon's den' style pitches for council cash: Different local groups can make proposals for a portion of public budgets, and local people can consider which ones they feel will best meet the area's priorities and needs - such as recycling projects, health projects, local environmental issues or children's services. A new 'asset transfer unit' will be led by the Development Trusts Association. The unit will offer an independent hub of advice for local people and authorities to help community groups take control of disused public buildings if they can prove they can put them to better use. Its advice will be available to people from all over England, and will draw on the experience of twenty buildings whose transfer has already been completed, or will be signed off within the next twelve months, with government support.

Lottery support for Leeds and Sheffield

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Essential support for over 7,000 vulnerable people in Leeds will expand over the next three years following a significant grant of £395,421 from the Big Lottery Fund for the St Vincent Support Centre. Also women in Sheffield who have suffered from chronic trauma and abuse are to be helped to overcome its impact on their lives through a substantial grant of £458,611. The St Vincent Support Centre focuses on vulnerable people in the city with a complex range of issues including low income, poor self-esteem, social isolation, mental health problems and family troubles. The new funding for Stepping Stones will enable the St Vincent Support Centre to expand the range of people it is able to support including housing association tenants experiencing financial difficulties plus helping ex-offenders and their families resettle in the community. Sheffield Womens Counselling and Therapy Service will open a critical new service that will provide a free and accessible range of support including one-to-one and group therapy. Key beneficiaries will be vulnerable women from a variety of backgrounds who have previously not had the opportunity to talk about childhood or domestic abuse. The funding that will help them move their lives forward comes from the Big Lottery Funds Reaching Communities programme, which support projects that improve the lives of people and communities across England.

Government watchdog calls for urgent new solutions for rural transport

Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:00:00 +0200

The Commission for Rural Communities (CRC) has published five studies putting the spotlight on transport challenges facing rural areas, ranging from accessibility to key services, the effects of technological change and implications of road pricing. Rural people travel around 10,000 miles each year compared with around 7,000 for all residents, and use of cars is significantly higher in rural areas. The series of studies or 'think-pieces' comprises: * 'The contribution of transport to sustainable rural communities' - in collaboration with Transport Research Laboratory * 'Sustainable rural accessibility' - is it really possible? - in collaboration with Integrated Transport Planning. * Rural life without carbon' - in collaboration with MVA Consultancy. * The implications of technological change for rural transport' - in collaboration with University of West of England. * The potential impacts of road pricing on rural areas' - in collaboration with Universities of Plymouth and Aberdeen.

Charities Evaluation Services report of largest ever research study into monitoring demands and

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Charities Evaluation Services has published the report of the largest ever research study exploring monitoring and evaluation demands and practice in the third sector. This is the first study in this area on over 20 years. Among other things, the report calls for a better match between the accountability requirements placed on third sector organisations by funders and commissioners and the information the organisations themselves need in order to develop and improve their services and campaigns. The full final report and summary briefing are available on their website: CES Report

Help build a thriving BME Third Sector with Voice4Change England

Fri, 05 Sep 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Since its launch in 2007 Voice4Change England has quickly established itself as a powerful advocate for the interests of the BME Third Sector. It has excellent links with the office of the Third Sector, being one of its Strategic partners, and is prominent in representing the public policy concerns of the BME Third Sector to the media. It has responded to numerous Government consultations and has taken a lead on lobbying against CLGs draft Cohesion Guidance for Funders. In addition, it has participated in many conferences and seminars, and hosted four quarterly policy roadshows to engage with regional audiences throughout England. The issues covered include; CLG Cohesion Guidance, the review of the BME Compact Code, Local Area Agreements, the principles of representation, Compact Advocacy, the Public Law Project, the Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Bill, and the Audit Commissions Comprehensive Area Assessment consultation. It also organised a policy symposium that brought together leading thinkers and practitioners on cohesion issues to inform the nation debate. Now it is looking for individuals and organisations interested in building a thriving BME Third Sector to join as Subscribers to broaden its base of support. The Subscribers scheme is open to individuals, institutions, networks, forums, alliances, partnerships, social enterprises, voluntary and community organisations, registered charities and statutory bodies to join as supporters and strengthen V4CEs role as a policy advocate for the BME Third Sector.. There are three Subscriber types: Full, Associate or Friend. The benefits to Subscribers include: participation in Voice4Change Englands policy responses to government consultations, discounts on services such as events and publications; plus regular news, updates and signposting to opportunities throughout the Third Sector. There is a free introductory offer and details with an online application form are available from: http://www.voice4change-england.co.uk

Regions population increases by 35 thousand

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 00:00:00 +0200

** ONS August Newsletter ** The population of Yorkshire and The Humber grew by nearly 35 thousand to 5,177.2 thousand. Among local authorities Leeds had the largest increase (around 1.5 per cent). North East Lincolnshire was the only local authority area to see a fall in population, albeit a small one. The largest component of the change in the regions population was net migration, which accounted for nearly 22 thousand of the increase, with natural change (births minus deaths) accounting for the remaining 13 thousand. The population of the United Kingdom as a whole increased between 2006 and 2007 by 388,000 (0.6 per cent) to almost 61 million. For the first time ever, there are more people of state pensionable age than under-16s. This reflects a decline in the number of under-16s, combined with rising numbers of women and men aged over 59/64 respectively. Under-16s, accounted for 18.9 per cent of the population compared with 19.0 for those aged over 59/64

Footsey 2008 DRAGONS DEN APPLICATIONS

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Footsey 2008 will again include an exciting Dragons Den competition. It is a chance for organisations to win investment (which might be in the form of a grant, loan or other financial instrument) for a new enterprise idea. A seminar will take place on the afternoon of Footsey (16 October), where 4 shortlisted organisations will pitch their idea to a distinguished panel of judges, in front of an audience of conference delegates. The judges (the Dragons) will represent their organisations who are the potential investors. For more information and an application form click on the link below.

Upcoming Training for Infrastructure Organisations

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 00:00:00 +0200

National Performance Programme - Training discount for infrastructure members of the Regional Forum for Yorkshire and Humber The Regional Forum has negotiated training discounts for its infrastructure members from the National Performance Programme, led by Charities Evaluation Services (CES). National Performance Programme training courses are for people working in infrastructure organisations that support groups and organisations, for example as development workers. The courses provide a solid foundation in: strategic planning, quality assurance and monitoring and evaluation. There is also an introduction to performance management course for people who want a quick overview of the field, or who are new to the role of supporting groups on performance. Prices start from £45 but Regional Forum members can access a 25% discount on courses running in autumn 2008. There are also bursaries available to help with travel costs. Courses include: Introducing performance for support providers 9 October (York)or the 11 November in Cambridge or the 19 November in Birmingham Quality: supporting groups 13 October (York) or the 4 November in Birmingham Strategic planning: supporting groups 6 & 7 November (York)or the 25 and 26 November in Cambridge Monitoring and evaluation: supporting groups 22 October in Cambridge or the 14 November (York) or the 11 November in Cambridge or the 28 November in Birmingham The training has been designed for people who are new or fairly new to the topics the courses cover and therefore are not suitable for people with a lot of experience on the subject. For more detailed information on the courses, travel bursaries and booking information please go to http://www.performancemanagement.org.uk When you book please specify that you are a Regional Forum member to receive your 25% discount. Further information can be obtained from: CES: Peter Norgate Peter Norgate 020 7078 9394 Regional Forum: John Harris 0113 3942300

Government to reduce regulation burden on charities

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 00:00:00 +0200

** Third Sector Daily 01/09/08 ** The Government has announced new measures that it says will reduce the regulatory burden on thousands of charities. The Office of the Third Sector has published proposals to raise the minimum income thresholds above which charities face more onerous financial reporting requirements. However, NAVCA, the umbrella body for local infrastructure groups, reiterated its concern that the move could damage public trust by increasing the risk of fraud and financial mismanagement. Among the changes will be an increase in the threshold above which charities must prepare accruals accounts. The threshold will rise from £100,000 to £250,000, reducing the regulatory burden on about 11,700 charities. There will also be an increase in the threshold above which accounts must be externally audited, from £10,000 to £25,000. This will cut red tape for about 37,000 charities. Meanwhile, the threshold above which annual accounts - and the trustees annual report - must be submitted to the Charity Commission will be raised from £10,000 to £25,000. It is estimated that about 23,000 charities will benefit as a result of this change. The new thresholds will be implemented for the 2009/10 financial year.

Study promotes social enterprise to black women

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 00:00:00 +0200

** Third Sector Online, 22 August 2008 ** The Government Equalities Office has published new research to encourage black, asian and minority ethnic women to start their own social enterprises. The report, Social Enterprise: Making it Work for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic Women, was prompted by fears that BAME women are under-represented in the UK's 55,000 social businesses. The document identifies barriers to BAME women's involvement in social enterprise and suggests incentives to promote greater social and economic independence among this group. The suggestions include signposting key sources of advice and funding, promoting case studies of existing BAME women social entrepreneurs and conducting further research into the needs of BAME women who want to set up social enterprises. "Social enterprise can be a route to fulfilling employment, better incomes and greater independence and has the power to transform our country for the better," said Barbara Follett, deputy minister for women and equality. "We want to develop practical measures for increasing the representation of BAME women in their communities and we recognise the multiple benefits from encouraging more of them to enter social enterprise." Third sector minister Phil Hope said: "Social enterprises draw on a diverse range of talent that delivers innovative approaches to some of the most challenging social problems. "BAME women can have a better understanding of the issues facing their communities than anyone else, so supporting them in particular has great potential to help improve those communities."

Ramadhan call to register Mosques and community groups as charities

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Ramadhan is a time when many community organisations and Mosques benefit from the generosity of Muslim people. Many organisations dont realise that by registering with the Charity Commission the money they are given could go even further, helping them to make an even greater impact on their communities. This Ramadhan the Charity Commission, the independent regulator of Charities in England and Wales, is encouraging organisations that think they might have charitable status to contact them on 0845 300 0218 to find out how they can register. There are many benefits of registering as a charity. Charities registered with the Charity Commission: * Have the benefit of a charity registration number and the badge/brand of charity, increasing public trust and confidence in their organisation. * Can maximise the financial benefit of donations through Gift Aid arrangements. This means that currently for every £1.00 donated through Gift Aid charities can claim back up to 28p from the government. * Benefit from generous tax breaks they do not normally have to pay income/corporation tax, capital gains tax, or stamp duty, and gifts to charities are free of inheritance tax. Have access to free expert advice and tailored guidance from the Charity Commission. Registering as a charity is not a complicated process, visit the Commissions website: www.charitycommission.gsi.gov.uk or call 0845 300 0218 for further information.

£6 million boost for charities over three years

Tue, 19 Aug 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Voluntary and community sector organisations will receive £6 million in funding for the next three years from HM Revenue & Customs to help people get the right benefits and tax. Fifty-seven organisations have received awards for 2008/2009, 21 of which received a boost for multi-year funded projects. Head of HMRCs Third Sector Team, Derek Tilstone said: "This money will fund organisations that work with the vulnerable in society, helping them claim the right benefits, like tax credits that they are entitled to. "These organisations provide a safety net for people who do not normally come to HMRC for help and advice. Their work is vital because it makes customers aware of our products, provides extra help with tax issues and brings customers back into direct contact with HMRC." In 2008/9, HMRC extended its funding programme to include: third sector organisations, social enterprises, cooperatives and both large and small mutuals, in addition to voluntary and community organisations, and charities. HMRC will be announcing its new funding round in October 2008. HMRC announced its 2008-2009 funding programme on the internet in November 2007 and invited Third Sector organisations to apply for a GIA award. A list of the successful organisations, details of their projects and amount of award can be found at:http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/vcs/guidance0809.htm

Principles of Representation

Thu, 14 Aug 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Principles of Representation: A framework for effective third sector participation in Local Strategic Partnerships Communities and Local Government Department has published a document which provides advice to the third sector on how best to organise themselves to maximise their input on Local Strategic Partnership boards (LSPs). It is also designed to help LSPs decide how best to involve the sector; and assist all LSP partners agree an inclusive approach involving the sector more and, through them, empower their communities to exert more influence over local decision-making. To view the document and download free of charge visit: http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/communities/principleofrepresentation

Futurebuilders-funded charities win contracts worth £7.7m

Wed, 13 Aug 2008 00:00:00 +0200

** From Third Sector Daily 13/08/08 ** Voluntary organisations won contracts worth £7.7m from April to June this year because of investments from Futurebuilders England, the fund has claimed. An internal review by Futurebuilders showed that third sector organisations it funded had signed 44 public service delivery contracts in the three-month period. "We are encouraged by the fact that so many of our investees have been successful in winning contracts over the past few months," said Jonathan Lewis, chief executive of Futurebuilders. Futurebuilders, which mainly issues loans, will monitor the number of contracts won as a result of its investments every quarter. "We hope that by tracking the progress of our investees every three months we will be able to see a real increase in the number and value of contracts won," said Lewis. "This allows us to capture some really positive commissioning stories and help us to find out about ways we can support organisations to win contracts." Futurebuilders, a government-backed fund offering support and investment to third sector organisations delivering public services, has offered more than £140m of its £215m to more than 280 organisations since its inception in 2004.

Communities in control: Real people, real power: Improving local accountability - Consultation

Mon, 11 Aug 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Improving local accountability consultation is the first in a series of Communities in Control consultations flowing from the recent white paper (July 2008). The consultation also covers implementation of the overview and scrutiny provisions in the Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Act 2007. Views are sought on proposals for developing and strengthening overview and scrutiny, new powers to hold local officers to account and facilitating the work of councillors. The consultation closes on 30 October 2008. To read the consultation document and to take part visit: http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/localgovernment/localaccountability

Regional Forum - Investors in People

Wed, 06 Aug 2008 00:00:00 +0200

After two years of planning and hard work the Regional Forum had it's final assessment for the Investors in People Standard and has passed. The Investors in People Standard, originally developed in 1990 and reviewed every 3 years to make it more relevant, is a 'people centred' flexible framework for business improvement that an organisation can adapt for its own requirements. It is based on three key principles: Plan, Do and Review. The Standard is more than just a logo, it is external recognition of the good work that the Forum does and provides us with the tools to have a clear vision of where we are going and plan for the future, identify Training and Development needs and have regular reviews of our work.

Supporting the regions - A joint response to changing economic circumstances

Wed, 30 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0200

The Chief Secretary to the Treasury, the Rt Hon Yvette Cooper MP, has launched a new programme of regional engagement, consulting on how various agencies can work together to provide a strong regional response to the changing economic circumstances, and provide support for regional business and households. The launch also provided the opportunity to seek advice from regional and local partners on the investment priorities for over £22bn of regional economic development to be spent across England over the coming years. Launched at the headquarters of the Yorkshire and Humber Regional Development Agency (Yorkshire Forward), the framework for this ongoing work was set out in a joint paper, The Yorkshire and Humber economy: a joint response to changing economic circumstances. This is the first in a series of papers to be published by Regional Development Agencies and other regional bodies, in conjunction with the Treasury and the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform, and also provided the opportunity for the announcement of new support for financial services and manufacturing business in Yorkshire, as well as expanded rapid response teams to ensure that anyone made redundant in the region can quickly re-enter the labour market. to view the full report visit: The Yorkshire and Humber Economy - a joint response to changing economic circumstances

Proposals for legislative change for Credit Unions and Industrial and Provident Societies

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0200

** From Plunkett Weekly News ** The Treasury this week published a consultation document on a Legislative Reform Order (LRO) to amend the legislation for Credit Unions and Industrial & Provident Societies (IPS) in Great Britain. The LRO is the Governments legislative response to the June 2007 consultation on the Review of GB cooperative and credit union legislation. Among the LROs proposals are: For Credit Unions: Replacing the common bond requirement for credit unions with a field of membership test; allowing credit unions to admit bodies corporate, unincorporated associations or partnerships to their membership and allowing credit unions to offer interest on deposits provided certain conditions are met. For Industrial & Provident Societies: Modifying the provision on minimum age for membership of an IPS and minimum age for becoming an officer of an IPS; modifying the rules on share capital and giving societies the flexibility to choose their own year-ends.

Launch of new community of practice on third sector indicators

Mon, 28 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0200

The National Indicator Set is part of the new performance framework for monitoring and regulating local government set out in the Local Government & Public Involvement in Health Act 2007. There is a set of 198 National Indicators. These indicators cover all the national priority outcomes which local authorities will be responsible for delivering. Each LAA will have up to 35 of these targets agreed as priorities in their Local Area Agreements. The Office of the Third Sector owns two indicators: National Indicator 6 participation in regular volunteering National Indicator 7 environment for a thriving third sector The Office of the Third Sector (OTS), the Improvement & Development Agency (IDeA) and the Local Government Association (LGA) are working together to develop a Community of Practice which aims to support local authorities and their partners in improving performance against NIs 6 and 7. On-line Community of Practice A Community of Practice (CoP) is a network of individuals with common problems or interests who get together to explore ways of working, identify common solutions, and share good practice and ideas. An on-line Community of Practice is freely accessible via the internet and allows knowledge development and sharing ideas. For further details visit Community of Practice

Department of Health (DoH) announces replacement to Section 64 grants scheme

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0200

The Department of Health is changing its main grants scheme for the voluntary sector. The new system, known as the Third Sector Investment Programme, has opened for applications and will begin making awards next year. It replaces Section 64 grants for charities that deliver services on behalf of the DoH. The announcement comes after a consultation with more than 700 third sector organisations on how the DoH could improve its funding of the health and social care charity sector. Two years ago, charities threatened legal action against the DoH for delaying Section 64 grants. The new programme has two strands: a strategic partner programme and an innovation, excellence and service development fund. For the former, the DoH will recruit up to 10 strategic partners from the voluntary sector and pay them to ensure better communication between charities and the DoH. The innovation, excellence and service development fund will pay for national projects that contribute to the DoH objectives of improving health and wellbeing. **Reproduced from Thrid Sector Daily**

New study charts state of play on disability equality, including the value of work to disabled people

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Major new research launched by Anne McGuire, Minister for Disabled People, provides a unique snapshot of the lives of nearly 2000 disabled people in Great Britain. Published in the run-up to the release of a Green Paper on Welfare Reform, the report showed that nine out of ten working disabled people believe their job has a positive impact on their life, keeping them active and giving them financial independence. It also confirmed that the number of disabled people in paid employment has increased. However, just over a quarter felt more could have been done to help them stay in work. Experiences and Expectations of Disabled People reports their views on a range of the issues, including employment, education, transport, health and discrimination. Commissioned by the Office for Disability Issues, the study actively involved disabled people throughout the research process. For more information and other key findings visit: http://www.wired-gov.net/wg/wg-news-1.nsf/lfi/163618

Social Enterprises employ more than a million

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Almost 1.3 million people, or 3.4 per cent of the working population, are employed in social enterprise, according to a five-year survey of social entrepreneurship in the UK. The research, carried out by Delta Economics, also found that women and people from black, Asian and minority ethnic communities are more likely to be social entrepreneurs than men or people from the white community. "Under-represented groups in enterprise, such as women and BME communities, are more likely to be social entrepreneurs and be innovative in tackling the needs they see in front of them on a daily basis," said Rebecca Harding, managing director of Delta Economics, who led the survey.

Assembly Information Pack 2008/09

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0200

The Yorkshire and Humber Assembly has published its Assembly Information Pack 2008/09. The guide gives updates the Assembly members and structure along the representatives on various boards and contact telephone numbers of Assembly staff. To view the Assembly Essentials visit:

Hazel Blears launches search for role models to inspire Black boys

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0200

A major national search to recruit Black male role models gets underway today as Communities Secretary Hazel Blears calls for motivational Black and mixed heritage men to take a lead in inspiring the next generation of Black boys to achieve and succeed. The creation of the first ever Black Boys' National Role Model programme is part of a package of measures to help raise the aspirations and attainment of some of today's young Black men. Hazel Blears wants to encourage Black and mixed heritage men from all walks of life to come forward and play a part in lifting the sights of young Black boys. A national modelling programme was one of the recommendations made to Government by an independent panel made up of members who had an in depth understanding of the realities of the lives of Black Boys and the barriers they face to success. The Government has responded positively to their report and is committed to taking action on all the REACH recommendations. Too often role models can be celebrities and those who glamorise a world of crime, drugs, guns and gangs. The national role modelling programme will seek to challenge stereotypes, shine a light on positive images of Black male achievement - from businessmen to doctors, lawyers, artists and community workers. REACH is about getting these positive images onto the radar and ensuring that more young people know that every route is open to them.

Creating Strong, Safe and Prosperous Communities: Statutory Guidance

Mon, 14 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Communities and Local Government Department has published a statutory guidance document on "Creating Strong, Safe and Prosperous Communities". The document covers the duty to involve and duties around Local Area Agreements in the Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Act 2007. It also replaces previous guidance on Local Strategic Partnerships ad Sustainable Community Strategies. Taken together, this document is a comprehensive guide to local authorities and their partners on how to engage their citizens, lead their communities, and find new and more effective ways to deliver high quality services. To read the document in full visit: http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/localgovernment/strongsafeprosperous

UK CO-OPERATIVES WORTH £27.4BN

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Co-operatives in the United Kingdom have, for the second year, reported on their combined performance. Unveiled at Co-operatives 2008 in Blackpool, the sector has a combined turnover of 27.4 billion pounds with profit before tax of 539 million pounds. There are over 4,735 jointly owned, democratically controlled co-operative businesses in the UK, owned by 10.8 million people and sustaining more than 237,000 jobs. These numbers include not only the consumer owned High Street 'Co-op' shops but also employee owned co-operatives, co-operative consortia, agricultural co-operatives, housing co-operatives, fishing co-operatives, community owned co-operatives and credit unions. The figures were presented by Ben Reid, Chair of Co-operativesUK, the organisation that represents co-operative enterprise in the United Kingdom, during a keynote address to over 400 people from across the co-operative sector in the UK. 'For the first time last year we were able to draw together comprehensive data on the size of the co-operative sector as a whole. It is rewarding this year to be able to publish the first comparative results, which not only show the scale of the sector but also its diversity. 'Whether it is on the high street, in agriculture, in collective buying for bakers and plumbers merchants, in the provision of health care or housing, in ethical finance, in maintaining village shops and post offices, or in supporting football in the community - co-operatives are making a difference.' © Co-operativesUK

Third Sector Research centre contracts sealed

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Birmingham University and Southampton University have been jointly awarded a five-year contract to run the new £10.25m Third Sector Research Centre. The two universities will work with voluntary sector representative organisations including umbrella body the NCVO, chief executives body ACEVO and the Social Enterprise Coalition. "We want to have all the major sector-wide agencies involved because we are committed to research that is valuable to the sector and can be disseminated across it," said Pete Alcock, who has been appointed director of the centre. He will relinquish his role as head of the school of social sciences at Birmingham University to take up the new position on 1 September. John Mohan, professor of social policy at Southampton University, has been appointed his deputy. The Economic and Social Research Council and the Office of the Third Sector will each contribute £5m towards the centre, with the Barrow Cadbury Trust adding £250,000. The centre will publish an annual 'state of the sector' report showing what research is being undertaken each year.

White Paper delivers power shift to local people

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Communities Secretary Hazel Blears has published a White Paper setting out proposals to deliver a fundamental shift in power, influence and responsibility into the hands of communities and citizens. Communities in control: real people, real power sets out how the Government plans to give citizens and communities more rights and more power through: * more information and greater influence over the local decisions that affect them; * new means of holding politicians and councils to account; and, * where they choose, more opportunity to get directly involved in managing and shaping how local services are delivered. The complete document can view downloaded from: http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/communities/communitiesincontrol

Compact powers to be reviewed

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Phil Hope, Minister for the Third Sector, has asked the Compact Commissioner Sir Bert Massie to lead a debate on whether the Compact should be supported by statutory powers. In a letter to Sir Bert, the Minister asks the Commission for the Compact to conduct a wide and thorough debate across the third sector on whether the Commissioner should have legal powers to punish bodies that breach the Compact. This will form part of an ongoing root and branch review of the Compact and all its Codes of Practice. Established in 1998, the Compact is an agreement between Government and the third sector in England. It recognises shared values, principles and commitments and sets out guidelines for working together. The Minister's call comes after Sir Bert warned that the Compact cannot survive in its current form. Third sector organisations have complained that the Compact and the Commission 'lack teeth', leaving them unprotected in disputes with local authorities.

Funding for Community sport

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Sport England is consulting on possible changes to the way it distributes National Lottery money for community sport. Views are welcomed on ways to improve application and award processes as well as any particularly valued features of the current Community Investment Fund. Responses are required by Friday 12th September 2008. For more information and respond visit: http://www.sportengland.org/index/get_funding/homepage-lottery_consultation.htm

Third sector advisory body members appointed

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Phil Hope, Minister for the Third Sector, has today appointed the panel of the new Third Sector Advisory Body (TSAB). The new panel members bring experience from the third sector and beyond. TSAB has been set up to provide ministers with clear and authoritative advice on policy regarding the third sector, including charities, voluntary groups and social enterprises. The TSAB panel is: Lynne Berry OBE, Chief Executive, WRVS Stan Crawford OBE, Managing Director, Sherwood Energy Village Stephen Dunmore, Consultant & former CEO, Big Lottery Fund Clare Gilhooly, Chief Executive, Cambridge House Michael Kelly, Europe Head Corporate Social Responsibility, KPMG John Knight, Head of External Policy, Leonard Cheshire Bhupendra Mistry, Board Member Carnegie UK Trust, Harvest Housing Group & BBC World Service Penny Newman OBE, Non Executive Director Social Finance Ltd, former CEO Cafe Direct Plc and Social Enterprise Ambassador Cliff Prior CBE, Chief Executive, UnLtd Abbie Rumbold, Partner, Bates Wells & Braithwaite Danielle Walker Palmour, Director, Friends Provident Foundation Sir Nick Young, Chief Executive, British Red Cross The Third Sector Advisory Body was a commitment of the Third Sector Review published in 2007. The appointments will be until March 2011.

Minister confirms new deal for communities funding

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Communities Minister Baroness Andrews has today confirmed nearly £500m for neighbourhood partnerships in deprived communities across the country, to continue helping their work to cut crime levels, improve educational achievements and boost job opportunities. Over £250m will be made available over the next two years, and is in addition to the £230m announced in April for this year. This funding means that the 39 New Deal for Communities partnerships will have received £2bn over the 10-year programme.

English councils make charities a priority

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0200

** Taken from Third Sector Daily 01/07/08 ** Phil Hope, the third sector minister, hailed news that almost two-thirds of English councils are prioritising the voluntary sector in their Local Area Agreements as a "defining moment" for the Government's efforts to support charities. Under the new system of agreements, top-tier councils are required to prioritise 35 out of 198 new national performance indicators, in accordance with their areas particular needs for the next three years. Of Englands 150 councils, 61 have chosen national indicator 7, which requires them to create an environment in which voluntary sector organisations can thrive. Forty-three have chosen national indicator 6, which commits them to promoting high levels of regular volunteering. Eleven have chosen both 6 and 7. Councils will be given annually allocated reward money by CLG if they meet their targets. Their performance will also be assessed in a national survey of sector perceptions by the Office of the Third Sector. The survey will be carried out every two years, with the first one to launch in the autumn. Hope said: "Neither of the third sector national indicators are easy options, but investment in them will be paid back many times over. "A strong third sector will be a powerful partner in tackling other local priorities, from reducing social exclusion to promoting sport." A spokesman for the Office of the Third Sector added that the support of local authorities was crucial if central Governments efforts to promote the sector were to be successful. He said: "This is a turning point: it is giving the sector the role the Government said it wants for it." Stephen Bubb, chief executive of chief executives body Acevo, described the number of councils prioritising voluntary organisations as remarkable. He added: "This has to be a good thing, because local government is the source of so much of the sector's funding." Kevin Curley, chief executive of local umbrella body Navca, said it was great news. He said: "Without a thriving third sector, it will be impossible for councils to meet many of the other targets."

Local Area Agreements - Local Priorities Website

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Local priorities are about creating the sort of place you want to live in. They have been negotiated between your local council, those providing your local public services (such as the police, NHS, JobCentre Plus, charities and community organisations) and Government. The priorities they will focus on, in your area, have been captured in the local area agreement (LAA). This sets out what will be tackled on an area-by-area basis across England over the next three years. Agreeing local priorities means that individual areas can focus on what is important to local residents and improve their quality of life. The Local Priorities Website gives you a break down of the priorities as chosen for your Local Area Agreement and be viewed at: http://www.localpriorities.communities.gov.uk/

New Tender Fund Launched by Futurebuilders

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Futurebuilders England has opened a £1m loan fund to help voluntary organisations prepare bids for contracts to deliver public services. Third sector organisations can apply for three-year interest-free loans of between £3,000 and £50,000 to help pay for costs associated with bidding. To be eligible for loans, organisations must show that they could not secure funds from a commercial lender and would have a realistic chance of winning the contract they are bidding for. To find out more about the Tender Fund, or to apply for a Tender Fund loan, call 0191 261 5200 or email info@futurebuilders-england.org.uk There is no closing date for applications, and the Fund will be available on a first come, first served basis until the £1m runs out. For further details, visit Tender Fund

Vulnerable people to benefit as majority of local councils make third sector a top priority

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 00:00:00 +0200

The most vulnerable people in local communities stand to benefit more than ever from the support of charities, voluntary groups and social enterprises, now that a majority of England's local councils have made it a top priority to have an active and thriving third sector. In a sign of unprecedented support for local third sector organisations, and in recognition of the invaluable work they do to strengthen communities and help the disadvantaged, almost two thirds of Local Authorities (LAs) have decided that having a vibrant and effective local third sector will be a priority for them over the next three years. Under a new system in place this year, all top tier local authority areas will be measured on their performance against 198 new National Indicators (NIs), two of which focus on the third sector. In addition, each area has had the opportunity to prioritise 35 NIs that will particularly meet local needs, and will be the targets that sit at the heart of each council's Local Area Agreement. Under this new system, 93 of England's top tier 150 LAs - 62 percent of them - have chosen to prioritise one of the two third sector indicators: NI6 - participation in regular volunteering; and NI7 - creating an environment for a thriving third sector. These indicators have been included by LAs in every region of the country - in urban, inner city and rural areas, covering over 65 percent of the population. Part of this success is due to the way that Local Strategic Partnerships (LSPs) are involving third sector organisations in important decisions about local priorities.

Capacitybuilders announces new £6 million Social Enterprise Programme, and Improving Reach grant awards

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Phil Hope, Minister for the Third Sector, has announced grant awards totalling £17 million through the Improving Reach Programme. The grants are to help organisations working with excluded communities to flourish through the provision of information, advice and facilities. He also announced the launch of a Capacitybuilders Social Enterprise Programme, with £6 million being invested over the next three years. Capacitybuilders is a non-departmental public body, funded by the Office of the Third Sector. Capacitybuilders aims to help create a more effective third sector by improving support for third sector organisations. Support includes a wide range of services, for example information, advice and training on a host of topics. Improving Reach Speaking at the annual Capacitybuilders conference held in Birmingham, the Minister announced details of over 70 grants from the Improving Reach programme. This investment will increase the capacity and sustainability of smaller third sector organisations specialising in providing advice and facilities to frontline groups working with excluded communities. Highlighting the work of one of these new recipients - the Tutu Foundation the Minister outlined how £448,000 investment will enable the Foundation to reach some of Englands most deprived communities, making it possible for 200 frontline organisations to help underprivileged young people. Social Enterprise Fund The Minister also announced a £6 million new investment to improve business support services for social enterprises. The money will fund improvements like new mentoring schemes, more accredited advisers and work to develop emerging markets. The funding, from the Office of the Third Sector, will be distributed over the next three years by Capacitybuilders. Capacitybuilders will work with social enterprise networks in each region and other local partners including Regional Development Agencies to identify the best ways to meet local needs. The programme will help increase collaboration and sharing of best practice between social enterprise support and the rest of the third sector, through consultation on priorities and the potential for collaborative projects. It builds on the commitments of the Third Sector Review to ensure social enterprise is fully integrated in to Capacitybuilders programmes

Millions of workers set to benefit from right to request time to train

Fri, 20 Jun 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Denham launches consultation on how new entitlement will work, challenging employers who offer no staff training The details of how up to 22 million workers in England will be able to use a new legal right to request time have been outlined by John Denham, Secretary of State for Innovation, Universities and Skills. Publishing a consultation into how the new right will work, Mr Denham said he expected around 300,000 people a year to receive skills training who otherwise would not as a result of legislation which could be in place by 2010, subject to its passage through Parliament. One third of employers do not train their staff and eight million employees receive no kind of training at all every year. Ministers believe a legal right to request time to train will help ensure that training is taken seriously by all employers. The Time to Train consultation is open to all employers and employees in England and closes on 10th September 2008. Further details from Time to Train Consultation

Sport England publishes new strategy to get more people playing sport

Tue, 17 Jun 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Sport England Strategy 2008-2011 Sport England has published a radical new strategy to get more people playing and enjoying sport and to help those with talent get to the very top. The new approach is designed to capitalise on the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity presented by the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and to use its power to inspire more people to take part in and succeed in sport. You can download the Strategy by clicking on the links below. Sport England Strategy 2008-2011 Sport England Strategy 2008-2011: Executive Summary Press Release

National Equality taskforce set up

Tue, 17 Jun 2008 00:00:00 +0200

Harriet Harman, Minister for Women and Equality, has launched an equality taskforce that will subject the root causes of inequality to unparalleled scrutiny. The National Equality Taskforce will consist of leading academics with cutting-edge research backgrounds. They will investigate the relationship between gender, race, disability, and other aspects of inequality, such as income and social class. The Taskforce chair and members will be announced in the summer. They will produce an independent report on their findings late in 2009. For further details and the views of Trever Phillips, Chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission, visit National Equality Taskforce

Petition for a Social Enterprise Mark

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 00:00:00 +0200

** Reproduced from the GuideStar UK e-bulletin June 2008 ** A Social Enterprise Mark has been developed by RISE, the voice for social enterprises in South West England. Kent social enterprise, The Sunlight Trust, has developed an online petition to lobby for the national roll out of the Social Enterprise Mark and are encouraging others to sign up. The Social Enterprise Mark is a label that tells customers that a product or service comes from a social enterprise. It is the only label of its kind that is open to all types of social enterprises trading in South West England, that successfully meet the qualification criteria and includes for example all companies limited by guarantee with charitable status. To sign the petition go to www.rise-sw.co.uk or www.socialenterprisemark.co.uk

Ministry of Justice builds relationship with third sector organisations

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 00:00:00 +0200

A new Ministry of Justice strategy looks to build upon third sector relationships to deliver better public services. The Ministry of Justice already works with a number of third sector organisations and spends more than £100 million annually with the sector through the Legal Services Commission and the National Offender Management Service. The Ministry of Justice provides many different public services, from the courts and tribunals, prison and probation services, to legal aid advice. This strategy underpins the department's commitment to engage with third sector groups, and recognises the important role the sector plays in developing social partnerships. The Third Sector Strategy focuses on four common goals:

Enabling voice and campaigning The third sector understands local communities and their needs, and that knowledge can be used to help shape services.

Strengthening communities The sector can help tap into social capital that is available through mentoring and volunteering.

Transforming public services Collaborative relationships between commissioners and the sector will improve the shape and delivery of public services.

Encouraging social enterprise Supporting the right social enterprises, and the conditions for them to thrive, will encourage long term sustainability.

For further details, visit Third Sector Strategy

Conservatives set out their polices for the voluntary sector

Thu, 05 Jun 2008 00:00:00 +0200

David Cameron has launched "Voluntary Action in the 21st Century", a Green Paper which highlights the importance of the voluntary sector and sets out ways to encourage it as a force for social progress. The document outlines a broad policy agenda to expand the role and influence of voluntary organisations, including measures to: - Increase volunteering - Encourage more charitable giving - Allow the voluntary sector to compete on an equal footing with the private sector - Make government contracting of the voluntary sector less burdensome - Create a network of Social Enterprise Zones At the launch, it was stressed the Green Paper was founded on the Conservative principle of "bottom-up social responsibility." "It looks at how we can nourish the voluntarism, altruism, locality, independence and diversity of Britain's civil society, not only as an end in itself, but because it is the voluntary sector that will provide many of the solutions to tomorrow's problems." Voluntary Action in the 21st Century © Conservatives

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