Regional Forum News

Sector's big ideas on Big Society

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Big Society Consultation 6 September 2010 St George's Centre, Leeds. Over 50 people from a wide range of voluntary, private sector and other organisations attended a consultation on the Big Society in Leeds on 6th of September, organised by Yorkshire & the Humber Forum. Please find below copies of the speech given by Andrew Fellowes from ACEVO, and the presentation given by Mark Crowe from the Forum. You can also see a draft version of the 'Big Society Manifesto' which will be further informed by the views and opinions of those attending the consultation event.

Commissioning and procurement: great ideas from a buzzing conference

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0100

The Forum is coordinating the way forward for a number of ideas on commissioning and procurement from its conference at Goole on 16th June. Eleven participants, from all sectors, volunteered to be part of a working group, which had its first meeting in July. Seventy people from all over Yorkshire and the Humber, and from the private and public sector, as well as voluntary and community organisations, took part in the conference. The atmosphere at the Courtyard in Goole was vibrant and stimulating all day. keynote speakers The day began with two excellent speakers. Ed Mayo (Secretary General, Co-operatives UK) - The Campaign For Co-operation Professor Andrew Kerslake (Associate Director, the Institute of Public Care - There may be trouble ahead... Key Issues in Commissioning Adult Social Care (these presentations are collated in one summary document see below)

Complimentary and interesting presentations
Inspiring, interesting, funny, well done

workshops (world café) We used, for the first time, a world café approach to workshops. Short presentations were followed by small, constantly changing discussion groups, so each discussion was cross-fertilised by participants form all round the room. Each small group aimed to finish with one key point to take forward (these are all collated in one summary document see below). From national to local (Stephen Oversby, Barnardos) Partnership with local authorities (Detty Tyler, East Riding Voluntary Action Services) Partnership working for health and commissioning: getting more for less (Norma Thompson, NHS Leeds) Choices and rights (Duncan Edge, Choices and Rights Disability Coalition)This session was a real eye opener
Discussion format very useful - made for focussed and interesting discussion.
performance Performers from Castaway (Goole Accessible Music Theatre) created a magical atmosphere outside in the Courtyard, as people participants had lunch in the sunshine.

The reason we are all here.

ideas bank 5 very specific ideas were aired for just 6 minutes each. Participants were then asked to spend their specially minted money Yorkies on whichever idea they thought was most effective and feasible:(these are all collated in one summary document see below)

Supporting BME organisations to deliver (Muzahid Khan, Yorkshire & the Humber Forum) - 25 Yorkies
A commissioning and procurement framework (Donald Macintosh, Community Regeneration Partnership) - 36 Yorkies
Participatory budgeting (Heather Blakey, International Centre for Participation Studies) - 82 Yorkies
Social impact bonds (Neil Berry, Development Trusts Association) - 136 Yorkies
Social value clauses in contracts (Tony Bailey and Dean Backhouse, Leeds City Council) - 69 Yorkies

key issues, discussion points and opportunities what did participants think? 90% of participants felt the conference completely or partly met their expectations
informative and thought provoking.
More than my expectations.
very interesting and a good learning opportunity

Equity and excellence: Liberating the NHS

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0100

The Government has published a White Paper setting out the Governments vision for the NHS Equity and Excellence: Liberating the NHS. Click on the links below for a letter from the Secretary of State for Health, Andrew Lansley, along with a PDF of the White Paper.

VCS quarterly confidence survey for Yorkshire and the Humber - June

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0100

The Regional Forum has published its latest VCS quarterly confidence survey. Respondents are still gloomy about prospects for the sector, although there has been a slight increase in confidence about their own organisations' situations.

Government says what it means by Big Society

Thu, 20 May 2010 00:00:00 +0100

The Government has today published details of what it means by Big Society (see link, and download the Big Society Programme). This is likely to have far-reaching effects on the voluntary and community sector, and on how things are planned.

VCS quarterly confidence survey for Yorkshire and the Humber

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

The Regional Forum has published its latest VCS quarterly confidence survey. Despite increasing concern about economic conditions within the VCS, over a third of organisations are planning to expand their services and 81% expect to collaborate more over the next year. VCS Quarterly Confidence Survey

£1million fund to help faith groups have their voices heard

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Communities Secretary John Denham today unveiled a £1m fund to help faith groups get their voices heard by Government and public bodies and help play their part delivering public services. John Denham praised faith groups for their hard work and commitment to their local communities and called on local authorities to ignore the myths about faith communities and create a level playing field for faith groups providing publicly funded services. He also announced a £50,000 prize to reward faith groups for innovative projects in their local communities. National faith based organisations are invited to bid for a share of £1m funding that help them develop a bigger voice and strengthen their capacity to challenge and engage Government. The money is focused on making sure these organisations have the tools they need to do the job and could be used for activities including training in fundraising.

Report on the work of Yorkshire Forward

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

MPs on the Yorkshire and the Humber Select Committee are concerned about the impact of budget cuts and a reduction in funding on the work of Yorkshire Forward in the region. In a report on the work of the Regional Development Agency published today the MPs praise its work promoting economic development and regeneration in the region. The report points out that Yorkshire Forward has incurred a 23.9% reduction in total financial resources for 2010-11 and recommends that the Development Agency should not have its budget decreased further. The Committee welcomes the conclusions of the National Audit Office and Pricewaterhouse Coopers reports which positively endorse the work of Yorkshire Forward and its benefits to the regional economy.

Jobs and homes shortages 'force young from rural areas'

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

A lack of jobs and affordable housing is driving young people out of the countryside, a report has warned. The government's rural advocate Stuart Burgess said "deep concerns" over work, training, housing, transport and social exclusion existed across rural England. He said planning rules must be loosened and broadband access improved if rural communities were to survive. The government says it is working with its Commission for Rural Communities to address young people's needs. Dr Burgess, the commission's chairman, reports rural communities' concerns as an adviser to ministers. His team gathered evidence from across England to assemble the report - which was handed directly to Prime Minister Gordon Brown. STUDY RECOMMENDATIONS Wider availability of Job Centre Plus, Connexions, and apprenticeships Renewed focus on providing integrated public transport Rural areas prioritised for next generation broadband access and improved phone coverage A more creative and flexible approach to planning Schools and universities to raise young people's aspirations Dr Burgess said: "Wherever I go, I hear deep concerns - that challenges with housing, work, transport, training and social exclusion are preventing young people from living in the countryside. "Without young people to provide a work force, rural economies are unable to fulfil their full potential and rural communities can go into a decline." He said a lack of broadband and mobile phone coverage in many rural areas was preventing businesses from recruiting and young people from accessing jobs and support in education and training. The report said demand for new housing in the countryside was expected to grow by 35% between 2006 and 2031, compared to 27% in urban areas. Despite this, social housing accounts for only 13% of stock in rural areas, compared to 22% in big towns and cities. Despite high levels of youth unemployment in rural areas, there are also far fewer job centres. The full report is at: http://www.ruralcommunities.gov.uk/

Evaluation reports on impact of early ChangeUp investment

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Findings from the independent evaluation of ChangeUp - covering the initial funding period for the programme from April 2004 to March 2008 - show how the programmes early focus on partnerships and greater collaboration contributed to a significant distance travelled in the way that third sector support services are organised. This led to greater stability and resilience and opened up greater funding opportunities and influence.. The report also highlights high levels of satisfaction amongst users of local support services. The evaluation, carried out by the Third Sector Research Centre, BMG Research, Guidestar Data Services and Sustain Consultancy, concludes that by the end of the first phase of ChangeUp investment, partnerships established at a local level in response to the ChangeUp programme had supported the development of better local relationships between third sector organisations and public agencies, leading to greater influence within local decision making. However, the evaluation also identifies the need, going forward, for the programme to address different rates of progress in local partnerships, and to ensure improvements in partnership working contribute effectively to the development of services for local frontline third sector groups. For more information visit: Evaluation Report Website

Councils shouldn't cut out third sector in efficiency drive

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Councils should consider the unique skills and benefits the third sector has to offer when improving local public services, Communities Secretary John Denham said today. In a keynote speech to the New Local Government Network, Mr Denham said councils shouldnt ignore the social outcomes the third sector can provide such as jobs for the workless or better services, in the stampede the hunt down the cheapest deal. Mr Denham will shortly be meeting with representatives from local government and the third sector to discuss the issue and look at how to ensure the third sector has the opportunity to play its part in the big issue of public service reform locally. John Denham said: It does not make sense to exclude the many excellent voluntary and third sector providers. They may not offer the cheapest contract in terms of narrowly defined cost/benefit in the short-term. But they can deliver important additional social outcomes such as jobs for the workless and marginalised and better quality service which saves money in the long run. Third sector organisations as well as groups of local public service employees and new private sector providers must have the chance to show how they could deliver the outcomes local people want by new ways of working, and new ways of delivering services not just asked to compete to deliver the current services at the lowest possible cost. I have a real concern that the third sector is not getting the opportunity to play its part in the big issue of public service reform locally. I have invited in representatives from local government and the third sector to discuss the issues and look at how we can address this.

Charity Awards 2010 are now open for entries

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

The Charity Awards 2010 are now open for entries The Charity Awards recognise excellence in the leadership and management of charities. They provide a wonderful opportunity for you propel your charitys work into the spotlight, to influence policy makers and funders and to boost the morale of your staff and stakeholders. The closing date for entries is Friday 12th March 2010. For more information visit: http://www.charityawards.co.uk/home/index.php

Appointment of new faith advisors

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

To encourage a deeper and broader relationship between Government and faith communities, Communities Secretary John Denham today announced the appointment of 13 new faith advisers who will act as a sounding board to advise on effective engagement with faith communities, and the impact of Communities and Local Government policy on faith communities. The 13 advisers, all experts in their chosen field, are intended to enhance ministerial understanding of, and engagement, with faith communities nationally. The Government already engages with faith communities through the Faith Communities Consultative Council (FCCC) and their role will continue. However over recent months John Denham has said that he wants to see as many channels of communication open as possible and this includes hearing from a wide range of expert voices. The members of the panel are: * Canon Dr Alan Billings - Formerly Director of the Centre for Ethics and Religion at the University of Lancaster. * Dr Harriet Crabtree - Director of the Inter Faith Network for the UK. * Marcia Dixon - Editor of Keep the Faith, a publication distributed to black majority churches. * Dr Doreen Finneron - Founder and director of the Faith Based Regeneration Network. * Jenny Kartupelis - Director of the East of England Faiths Council and Fellow of the Faiths and Civil Society Unit at Goldsmiths College. * Wakkas Khan - Director of the Exploring Islam Foundation and a founding member of the Radical Middle Way. * Alveena Malik A Principle Associate at the Institute of Community Cohesion and a Trustee of the Muslim Institute. * Mehri Niknam - Founder and director of the Joseph Interfaith Foundation. * Rosalind Preston - President of the Jewish Volunteer Network and Chair of Nightingale House. * Dr Jasdev Singh Rai - General Secretary of the British Sikh Consultative Forum and Director of the Sikh Human Rights Group. * Bishop Tim Stevens - Anglican Bishop of Leicester and Founder and Chair of the Faith Leaders Forum of Leicester. * Arjan Vekaria - President of Shree Kutch Leva Patel Community (UK) and the Hindu Forum of Britain. * Prof Paul Weller - Head of Research and Commercial Development, Faculty of Education, Health and Sciences and Professor of Inter-Religious Relations, University of Derby.

New Director General for the OTS

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Rolande Anderson has been appointed as the new Director General for the Office of the Third Sector (OTS). She joins the OTS from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) where she was Director General for Transformation and Corporate Services. Before joining ONS, Rolande was Regional Director of the Government Office for the South East, Englands largest region.

Communities hit by Government u-turn on funding

Thu, 26 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Two organisations working with marginalised communities in Yorkshire are angry at the decision of the Office for the Third Sector to pull the plug on much needed funding which had already been agreed. GATE (Leeds Gypsy and Traveller Exchange) and GenderShift, based in Hull, had been successful in applying for much-needed funds from the Campaign Research Programme. Each organisation was awarded £15,000 just three weeks ago, to support their work in advocating for some of the most vulnerable groups in the region. They have now been told that the funding has been withdrawn. In letters sent to the organisations, Minister for the Third Sector, Angela Smith MP, cites the recession as the reason for the u-turn, with the money being transferred instead to the Governments Hardship Fund for the sector. On hearing the news Judy Robinson, Director of Yorkshire and the Humber Regional Forum said: Many organisations put in precious time and resources to bid for this money in good faith. Its withdrawal leaves them in a worse position than before, and sends out very negative messages about the inclusion of marginalised communities. It also flies in the face of the Governments Compact with the voluntary sector. I sincerely hope the Minister urgently reviews this decision. The Campaign Research Programme, from where the funds had been designated to enable the voice of vulnerable people to be heard through campaigning and advocacy, was to be administered by Capacitybuilders. GATE works to promote positive understanding and appreciation of Gypsy and Traveller culture, and provides information, advice and advocacy support. GenderShift is a social enterprise set up to help create a fairer world in which every persons gender, gender identity, gender expression and sexual orientation are accepted and respected. Add your name to this petition http://www.louder.org.uk/OTScampaign asking the Government to reverse a decision which it admits has breached the Compact, the voluntary agreement that advises on how third sector and public bodies should treat each other.

The Queen's Speech

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0000

There are thirteen Bills outlined in today's Queen's Speech; three of these have direct relevance to the voluntary and community sector. They are; The Child Poverty Bill This puts into law the government's commitment to end child poverty by 2020. It places a duty on local authorities to deal with the problem, and requires the government to report progress to Parliament on an annual basis. The Equality Bill This places a duty on the whole public sector to "narrow the gap between rich and poor". It would ban age discrimination outside the workplace, and require businesses with more than 250 employees to report on gender differences on pay. The public sector should use money for public procurement deals to drive equality in the private sector. Personal Care at Home Bill This would guarantee free personal care for people suffering from acute diseases like dementia or Parkinson's. It will protect the savings of people who currently get free care, and promises to help those needing to enter care homes for the first time to maintain their independence. This applies to England only. The Child Poverty and Equality Bills are not new in substance, although there are some additions/changes in the details. The Regional Forum has been engaged with both of these Bills with responses and briefings. For more information on the policy work of the Regional Forum visit: UK Policy

Social enterprise man goes all the way 'to test state of the sector'

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0000

* By David Ainsworth, Third Sector * A social enterprise leader from Yorkshire has pledged to live on nothing but the products of social enterprises for the month of November. Alex Sobel, general manager of Social Enterprise Yorkshire and Humber, intends to document details of his purchases on his organisation's website, with a commentary on how he is getting on. "If I find it easy, that will tell us something about the state of social enterprise," he said. "If I find it impossible, that will tell us something else." He said the obvious difficulties were paying for gas, electricity and water, but that he would be able to buy petrol from a John Lewis or Waitrose service station. The idea came to him, he said, when reading a biography of 19th-century philanthropist Robert Owen, members of whose cooperative-style organisations tried to buy products only from other community enterprises. "I wanted to show that we shouldn't talk about community enterprise all day, then go to Tesco at 5pm when we walk out of the door," said Sobel.

Government research shows racial discrimination in recruitment

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100

New research published today by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), shows that racial discrimination in recruitment still exists towards ethnic minority people. The study showed discrimination occurred for those applying for jobs with a name suggesting they were from an ethnic minority, rather than white British. For every nine applications sent by a white applicant, an equally good applicant with an ethnic minority name had to send sixteen to obtain a positive response. Three applications were sent to 987 advertised job vacancies giving a total of 2,961 applications. Applications were made to private, public and voluntary sector employers of varying sizes. The public sector vacancies included in this study which usually required standard application forms, did not discriminate at this initial stage of recruitment. This suggests that discrimination might be reduced by the use of standard application forms.

Exceptional pressures will alter the face of the voluntary sector

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Exceptional pressures will alter the face of the voluntary sector, says Recession Watch Panel By Tristan Donovan, Third Sector, 15 September 2009 Changes to public spending and a struggle for small charities predicted by Third Sector's team of experts The voluntary sector will look significantly different after the recession because of changing patterns of public spending and commissioning and the rise of social enterprise, according to Third Sector's Recession Watch Panel. The panel of voluntary sector leaders, which met for the third time last week to discuss the economic downturn, agreed the sector was facing unprecedented pressures saying the Government's desire to commission large contracts could require even the largest charities to collaborate or merge to win public sector work. Two groups of charities were seen as particularly vulnerable to this and to falls in grant funding - those in the £10,000 to £150,000 income bracket taking on staff or premises for the first time; and organisations in the £1m to £20m range trying to turn themselves into national players. Federated charities could also be hit because they were often made up of organisations in these income brackets. Dame Mary Marsh, director of the Clore Social Leadership Programme, said social enterprise would become more important. "It's the only thing offering the potential for more income, because there are people who are interested in investing their money for social good rather than giving it away," she said. Foundations and trusts might move away from grant giving to social investment, she said: "Some private foundations are looking for more secure ways of getting a return for the money they put into the sector." It also warned that the Government's planned social investment bank would not make up for the drop in public funding.

All Inclusive? Third sector involvement in regional and sub-regional policymaking

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Regions and sub-regions play an important, if often unseen, role in policymaking. Influential decisions linked to regeneration, planning, housing, economic development and the allocation of European funding are all taken at these levels by a complex web of quangos and partnerships. This report considers the third sector's role as a key stakeholder in decision-making at the regional and sub-regional level, with a particular focus on economic development. To view and download the full report free of charge visit: http://www.ippr.org/publicationsandreports/publication.asp?id=684

Denham announces successful projects to support communities in promoting race equality

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100

A £9million Tackling Race Inequality Fund (TRIF) to address discrimination and underachievement has been announced by Communities Secretary John Denham. After a wide-ranging consultation on improving opportunities for minority ethnic people the Government is announcing a new commitment to funding projects that will drive forward efforts to promote race equality. TRIF projects will give targeted help to disadvantaged groups and all reflect a sense of shared values and fairness. The projects are split between 21 national and six regional organisations and include organisations such as the Stephen Lawrence Trust, Age Concern, the Race Equality Foundation and Mind.

Yorkshire and Humber new governance arrangements - Update

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:00:00 +0100

The Yorkshire and Humber Assembly has now been dissolved and new governance arrangements established, focused around a Joint Regional Board (JRB) and a series of thematic advisory boards.

The Joint Regional Board (JRB) - consisting of the 8 Members the Local Government Yorkshire & Humber (LGYH) Leaders' Board (2 Leaders from each of the four Functional Sub Regions/City regions), plus 8 Yorkshire Forward Board members - met for the third time on 24 April. This was an "extraordinary" meeting to discuss the region's immediate response to the economic downturn; as well as an outline process and timetable for the development of the region's single Integrated Regional Strategy (IRS) by 2011.

The JRB agreed that rather than continue with the ongoing review of the Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS), as previously planned, work on the review should now be rolled into the development of the IRS. Discussions are now taking place with the Government Office to confirm this proposal.

Dates have also now been set for the first meetings of the Four Thematic Boards established by the JRB to steer and inform the development of the IRS. The Chairing arrangements for these Boards are as follows:

Thematic Board	Chair	Deputy
Spatial Planning	Cllr Peter Box (LGYH) Leader, Wakefield	Julie Kenny (YF) MD, Pyronix Ltd
Regeneration & Housing	Cllr Kris Hopkins (LGYH) Leader, Bradford	Mark Lovell (YF) Exec Chairman, A4e Ltd
Work & Skills Partnership Board	Mark Andrews (YF) CEX, NG Bailey Group	Cllr Kris Hopkins (LGYH) Leader, Bradford
Transport	Cllr Mark Kirk (YF) YF Board and Leader, North Lincolnshire	Cllr Andrew Carter (LGYH) Leader, Leeds

It is planned that all Thematic Boards will meet before the next full meeting of the JRB on 17 July. At its July meeting the JRB will consider the initial views of each Thematic Board on the priority areas on which the IRS must focus. In particular, the IRS will need to add value to the sustainable economic growth strategies now being developed at the City Region level. Each of the four City Regions in Yorkshire and the Humber Leeds, Sheffield, York & North Yorkshire and Hull and the Humber Ports - are developing tailored approaches to their sub-regional strategies; and the award of Pathfinder City Region status to the Leeds City Region offers particular opportunities in this regard.

The 17 July JRB meting will also be discussing arrangements to establish an Independent Sustainable Development Board. Research funded by the DEFRA Transition and Transformation Fund has now reported and the JRB will discuss its recommendations alongside alternative options for ensuring sustainability is hard-wired into the IRS process. LGYH will also be facilitating a forum of lead local authority Chief Executives and Leaders in early June to ensure that wider health, community protection, cohesion and cultural priorities can be delivered appropriately through the IRS.

A paper on the engagement of social, economic and environmental partners throughout the IRS timetable and process will also go to the July JRB meeting, reinforcing the fact that the commitment to build the IRS from local priorities will help ensure that the Strategy reflects the priorities of such organisations at the different spatial levels.

A Regional Executive Group (REG) has been established to provide the regional managerial partnership to ensure the successful implementation of the new regional arrangements and IRS. The REG is to be made up of 8 local authority Chief Executives (two per City Region), one of whom will be Chair, the Chief Executives of LGYH and Yorkshire Forward the Regional Director of GOYH.

Following the dissolution of the Yorkshire and Humber Assembly on 1 April 2009, confirmation has now been received from Government that LGYH is now the designated regional chamber body for Yorkshire and the Humber. The JRB is now the designated regional planning body until new legislation comes into force, with transitional arrangements in place ensuring that the National Parks Authorities are co-opted onto the JRB for the regional planning purposes.

Big Lottery Fund unveils new funding strategy

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:00:00 +0100

** Kaye Wiggins, Third Sector Online, 25 June 2009 ** The voluntary and community sector will receive at least 80 per cent of funds and an extra £45m for the recession The Big Lottery Fund is providing an extra £45m to help charities through the recession and has pledged to give at least 80 per cent of its funds to voluntary and community groups rather than the current 60 to 70 per cent. The news came in its announcement today of its funding strategy for the for the next six years. The strategy follows its Big Thinking consultation, which asked stakeholders and the public how its budget for new funding programmes should be spent. The extra £45m, which will be distributed in the current financial year, includes an extra £20m for the Reaching Communities scheme in England, £7m for its Basis programme, which works to increase capacity in the sector, £5m for its Awards for All, which gives grants of between £300 and £10,000 to grassroots groups, and between £1m and £3m each for programmes in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Voluntary groups get £500K

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Recession-hit voluntary groups in North Yorkshire have been awarded almost £500,000 in lottery funds. The Big Lottery Fund has given £487,795 to Ryedale Voluntary Action to work in partnership with 14 organisations to support the area's rural communities. A Big Lottery Fund spokesman said: "The funding will help the sector cope with the strains of the economic downturn." Ryedale Voluntary Action welcomed the boost, saying other sources of funding were "drying up" during the recession. The groups benefiting from the funding include the Yorkshire Rural Community Council, York Racial Equality Network, Richmondshire Council for Voluntary Service and South Craven Community Action.

Yorkshire Forward looks for new Board Members

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Regional Development Agency Yorkshire Forward is looking for new members to join its Board. Tasked with driving economic development in Yorkshire and Humber and in the current economic climate, supporting regional businesses through the recession Yorkshire Forward invests around £300 million of public money every year in initiatives to support business growth, regenerate the regions towns and cities and develop the skills of its workforce. Members of the Board are responsible for driving the organisations investment decisions, which are accountable to Government via the newly created Department for Business, Innovation and Skills. The closing date for applications is Friday, 3rd July and more information is available at http://www.rdaboardappointments.com or from Kelly Walton on 0113 2056095.

Angela Smith named new third sector minister

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Angela Smith, the Prime Ministers parliamentary private secretary and MP for Basildon, has been named as the new minister for the third sector. Ms Smith has also previously held positions as under secretary of state at the Department for Communities and Local Government and under secretary of state for Northern Ireland, while between 1997 and 1999 she was an officer for the All Party Parliamentary Group for Charities and the Voluntary Sector. In her most recent role as parliamentary private secretary, she described herself as the eyes and ears of the Prime Minister at Westminster. Her predecessor, Kevin Brennan, moves to an as yet unspecified role at the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, having spent just eight months at the OTS. The role of minister for the third sector has also been raised from parliamentary under secretary to minister of state.

Surviving NOT Thriving - recession impact in the North East

Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Voluntary organisations' network north east (VONNE) has published the findings of it's impact study on the recession. The results of the survey highlight the difficulties faced by the sector in the North East including evidence that people in real need are being turned away from mental health charities, advice services and hostels as demand outstrips supply as well as, increased levels of stress amongst staff and concerns about the creation of the tow new unitary authorities in the region. The report also contains a number of recommendations for the future in particular about the Governments £42.5 million Real Help for Communities, the value of volunteers and the role of the Compact. The full report and all the findings can be found at:http://www.vonne.org.uk/survey/

Health of the 'VCS' survey 2009/10

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0100

The Regional Forum has completed its initial analysis of the results gathered from the 2009 Health of the Sector survey. As well as giving a breakdown of the type of work organisations do the survey also asked if the organisations had experienced any changes in the demand for their services and in terms of size and finance. The results show that a significant number of the respondents had experienced a growth in the demand for services but that rate of growth was not matched in rises in staff or volunteers. Many organisations expected to grow in the next financial year although at the time of the survey around 15% of those who took part were still unsure about what was going to happen to their organisation. The survey results can be viewed by clicking on the link below. Surevy Results

The Budget: verdict from the sector

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0100

** Third Sector Online, 23 April 2009 ** A welcome for £20m hardship fund, but disappointment at lack of progress on setting up a social investment bank and Gift Aid reform. Voluntary sector leaders greeted Alistair Darling's 2009 Budget with a mixture of enthusiasm and frustration. The biggest hit was a new £20m grant fund for charities hit by the recession, which came as a welcome supplement to the £42.5m action plan announced in February. They also welcomed an additional £18.75m to help credit unions make more affordable loans to people on low incomes, and a match funding scheme to help create 150,000 new jobs for young unemployed people, which they said would draw young people into the sector. John Low, chief exective of the Charities Aid Foundation, said the Chancellor had brought some welcome good news: "Coming in an extraordinary budget when nobody expected much help, this demonstrates recognition right at the heart of government that charities are the front line support for many people during these difficult times." The frustration came over Darling's failure to announce promised measures to streamline Gift Aid and reform the problematic substantial donor legislation, and the Government's slow progress on the commitment to set up a new social investment bank. Hopes of measures to ease charities' problems with VAT and prolong the staff hire concession, which helps charities that use agency staff, were also disappointed. The Charity Tax Group issued a statement saying the sector was "invisible" in the Budget. Helen Donoghue, director of the group, said: "It is surprising that a number of measures that could have been introduced to ensure the sector played its part in delivering services to alleviate the social problems caused by rising unemployment were overlooked." Shadow charities minister Nick Hurd said the decision to hold a consultation on a social investment bank, rather than making a firm commitment to fund it, was a "missed opportunity". Opinion was divided on whether the new 50 per cent tax rate from next year on incomes above £150,000 would harm or boost donations to charity. Some felt high earners would give less; others that they would be attracted by being able to claim back a higher percentage of a donation for themselves.

Regional revamp requires reps rethink!

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 00:00:00 +0100

The VCS Leaders Advisory Group Its all change in the regions! The Regional Assembly will cease to operate and the new regional arrangements start in April 2009. These new arrangements involve a Regional Board made up of local authority leaders and 8 members of the Board of Yorkshire Forward. Under this will be functional boards on things like skills and regeneration / housing. In addition the city regions are developing their work. So what does it all mean for the voluntary sector? Unlike the Assembly, where the non local authority sector had a number of representatives, the new bodies are working out their relationship to other sectors. But the issues these bodies will be tackling will have a profound impact on people and communities - and thats where the voluntary and community sector comes in. The sector works in all these areas so its involvement can make important links between local need and strategy, and between on the ground intelligence about what works and policy making. The Regional Forum with colleagues from the sector in the sub regions wants to make sure that the sectors contribution to the region can continue in positive ways. This is why the Forum is pleased to be setting up the VCS Leaders Advisory Group. Gil Chimon, Chair of The Regional Forum, in welcomed the Group: The Leaders Group will help to make sure the sector has a positive working relationship with the new structures in the region The Advisory Group will bring together sector leaders who have an understanding of strategic issues, a wide range of experience and who can offer their expertise and knowledge of communities to support decision making at the regional and other levels. We hoped the Group will make links across geography and theme and be able to help the sector have a coordinated message. We want members of the Group to come from all parts of the region, be operating at different levels (not just regional) and bring an active commitment to the positive contribution of the sector to Yorkshire and the Humber. The new Group will be recruited through application and interview. It will be accountable to the vcs through the Regional Forums democratic membership structures. There will be a strong requirement will to report to the sector. If you are interested in joining the Leaders Advisory Group please look at the advert and download the information pack and application on http://www.regionalforum.org.uk/job_tender_opportunities.php?id=64

Government launches real help for volunteers, charities and social enterprises

Mon, 09 Feb 2009 00:00:00 +0000

The Government today pledged £42.5 million to help volunteers, charities and social enterprises deliver extra real help to those that need it most, during the global economic downturn. The action plan for the third sector, published by Minister for the Cabinet Office Liam Byrne, sets out a targeted package of support that includes measures to help hundreds of voluntary organisations, charities, and social enterprises step up advice, support and volunteering in the areas that need it most across the country. The plan, which has been designed together with third sector leaders over the last three months, builds on the wide range of measures the Government has put in place to support people through the economic downturn, and on the Governments long term commitment to voluntary organisations and social enterprises. For more information visit: http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/third_sector/real_help_for_communities.aspx

Nearly 50,000 charities, voluntary groups and social enterprises have their say on public sector support

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 00:00:00 +0000

nitial results from one of the biggest surveys of its kind ever conducted, are published today. Nearly 50,000 charity, social enterprise and voluntary organisations took part in the National Survey of Third Sector Organisation and first findings show that when local public sector bodies work with them, it can have a really positive effect on their success. First results show that 58% of those who had direct dealings with local government bodies said that they had a positive or very positive effect on their success. However, over half of all respondents (51%) said they felt public sector bodies had no overall influence on their success, meaning public sector bodies have more to do to improve their contact and support to their local third sector. Initial results from one of the biggest surveys of its kind ever conducted, are published today. Nearly 50,000 charity, social enterprise and voluntary organisations took part in the National Survey of Third Sector Organisation and first findings show that when local public sector bodies work with them, it can have a really positive effect on their success. First results show that 58% of those who had direct dealings with local government bodies said that they had a positive or very positive effect on their success. However, over half of all respondents (51%) said they felt public sector bodies had no overall influence on their success, meaning public sector bodies have more to do to improve their contact and support to their local third sector. For more information visit: http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/third_sector/news/news_stories/090128_nstso.aspx

Regional GVA tops £87bn

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Gross Value Added (GVA) for Yorkshire and The Humber totalled £87.4bn in 2007, compared to £82.9bn in 2006, an annual increase of £4.5bn or 5.5 per cent. GVA per head rose from £16,114 in 2006 to £16,880 in 2007, an increase of 4.8 per cent. These figures come from the regional and sub-regional GVA estimates, published by ONS on 12th December. The data showed that the increase in Yorkshire and The Humber was smaller than in the UK as a whole, where headline GVA grew by 6.0 per cent and the per head figure increased by 5.3 per cent. GVA for industries within each region have been restored to the release, after their absence from the December 2007 publication. The proportion of GVA in Yorkshire and The Humber that comes from Real Estate, Renting and Business Activities increased from 13 per cent in 1991 to 19 per cent in 2006. However, this proportion is still smaller than all other English regions except the North East.

New LSC Qualified Provider Framework Begins

Tue, 04 Nov 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Qualified Provider Framework What is the Qualified Provider Framework? As of 31st October 2008, the LSC has opened a Qualified Provider Framework (QPF) for providers of education and training services. The Qualified Provider Framework is a maintained list of all providers from which the LSC will secure education and training services. This list will incorporate those providers with whom the LSC will negotiate and/or invite to tender. The Qualified Provider Framework will streamline the way the LSC commissions and contracts for provision and will remove barriers for new providers wishing to work with the LSC. Providers that wish to be eligible to receive invitations to tender can apply to be pre-qualified at any time during the year. This always open approach will allow providers to apply at a time convenient to them and which suits their business need. When the LSC identifies a need to tender for provision, it will temporarily freeze the list to new applicants in order for the tendering process to begin. The dates that the list will be frozen will be published well in advance; ensuring providers have sufficient opportunity to apply to pre-qualify. How do providers ensure they are on the Qualified Provider Framework? The details of all existing LSC providers are on the Qualified Provider Framework. Providers only need to take action if they wish ro receive inviations to tender from the LSC. Any provider that wishes to be included in the LSCs tendering round in January 2009 needs to ensure that they apply to pre-qualify by 10th December 2008. Providers who do not apply to pre-qualify by this date will not be eligible to receive invitations to tender in January 2009. This will not impact on a providers ability to continue to negotiate with the LSC. Existing providers who have no interest in receiving invitations to tender for new programmes do not need to take action. The LSC will continue to negotiate existing contracted programmes with these providers. General information on the Qualified Provider Framework - this is available on the LSC website LSC.gov.uk Information on the Qualified Provider Framework is outlined in the following documents on the lSC website: At-a-glance view of how to apply to pre-qualify The press advertisement on the Qualified Provider Framework Specification document for the Qualified Provider Framework If you would like to apply to pre-qualify: Access the LSCs e-tendering solution Frequently asked questions about e-tendering (2008/09 tendering round) Every week the LSC will look through all the questions they have received about the e-tendering process and publish answers to those that are asked frequently or that they think you may find useful.

At last, at long, long last! Government announces a new Third Sector Skills Council

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0100

This new skills body will identify and address skills gaps and shortages for charities, voluntary groups, social enterprises and other Third Sector organisations. It will pull together the work of the sector skills councils to open up learning opportunities for Third Sector paid and voluntary staff. It will ensure the sector's needs are properly considered in the design and development of National Occupational Standards, Apprenticeship Frameworks and Sector Qualification Strategies. The Office of the Third Sector (OTS) and the Department of Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS) will jointly fund the new skills body with £2.5 million over the next 3 years. It will be independent and directed by a board representing the sector's employers. To support this Skills for Justice will act as "incubator" and Janet Fleming of the Workforce Hub will project manage. The Minister for the Third Sector, Kevin Brennan, said: "This will put the Third Sector's skills needs on the same level as other sectors. Charities, voluntary groups and social enterprises deal with some of the most challenging social and environmental issues. Whether they are multi-million pound global operations or small community groups, having employees and volunteers with the right skills to get the job done is essential." Lord Young, Minister for Skills and Apprenticeships said: "The Third Sector Skills body will be a real step change to how charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups get the skills they need. As well as developing programmes to plug the immediate skills gaps, it will link the Third Sector into the complete national skills framework and influence the development of skills support services for the benefit of the sector." And with a regional view, John Harris at the Regional Forum, said: "This is progress on a front we have worked on for 6 years - ever since the government rejected the case for a generic Sector Skills Council after the National Training Organisations were abolished. We have lobbied regionally and nationally for this new body, the Workforce Hub have tenaciously held on and worked for this at national level and congratulations are due all round."

Potentially Good Capital News for LSC funded learning providers

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0100

LSC Capital Funding Potential for the VCS Work is underway to extend access to LSC capital funding to the Third sector. There are two proposed funds: the Skills Capital Projects Fund is for large projects (minimum £500,000) and to be administered nationally. The second would be the Regional Skills Capital Development Fund and the current proposal is for a £100,000 minimum and this fund would be administered regionally. The key criterion proposed is that organisations would have to already receive 50% of their funding from the LSC concern has been expressed over this as it would exclude most Third Sector organisations. The LSC Capital team are looking at the possibility of adding a clause which would state that any strong educational proposal should be looked at separately regardless of the 50% requirement. It is hoped that this new access to capital funding will take shape in the Spring of 2009 - we will keep you posted.

Upcoming Training for Infrastructure Organisations

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 00:00:00 +0100

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

Study promotes social enterprise to black women

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 00:00:00 +0100

** 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 +0100

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.

Rosie hears BME response to government policy announcements

Fri, 30 May 2008 00:00:00 +0100

Regional Minister Rosie Winterton MP has met with the Yorkshire & Humber BME Regional Panel to discuss the Governments legislation programme. Ms Winterton, who is also a Transport Minister, explained what the Government is hoping to achieve with its recently announced legislative plans and was then questioned by the Panel, made up of representatives of BME communities across the region. The discussion took place as part of a regular BME Panel meeting and was held in the Government office in Leeds on Friday 23rd May 2008. Panel Chair Naheed Arshad-Mather said: We are delighted that Ms Winterton has met with the regional BME Panel to explain government policy. This was an opportunity for us to also tell her of the realities for groups working in BME communities delivering services to often marginalised people. We raised the matter of the proposed Cohesion Guidance for Funders and our concern that if it becomes policy then the survival of BME and other equality groups is seriously threatened.

Chair of the Yorkshire and Humber Assembly, welcomes the publication of the Yorkshire and Humber Plan

Wed, 28 May 2008 00:00:00 +0100

Peter Box, Chair of the Yorkshire and Humber Assembly, has welcomed the publication of the Yorkshire and Humber Plan. Many organisations and individuals across the region have put a lot of effort in to the preparation of the Plan," he said. Its important that we have an up to date plan in place to provide the long term direction for development and investment in the region." And he added: Theres no doubt the higher housing requirements for more homes in the region are challenging, which is why the Government has asked the Assembly to undertake a partial review of the Plan - to look again at housing growth. In addition, that mini review will also allow us to look at other, related key issues like infrastructure, transport, Eco Towns and New Growth Points." Government legislation in 2004 saw Regional Planning Guidance - the framework for local authority development plans which oversee development and land use applications - replaced by a Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS). In this region, this is called the Yorkshire and Humber Plan. The RSS will set the framework to guide and direct where and how development and investment takes place across the region. Under new planning law, it will form part of the development plan" for each local authority and be taken into account in determining planning applications. More information can be found at: http://www.goyh.gov.uk/goyh/plan/regplan/?a=42496

OPPORTUNITY: VCS Equality and Human Rights Network Steering Group Membership

Thu, 01 May 2008 00:00:00 +0100

We are seeking up to 6 experienced team players to supplement the Steering Group for the Network. The Steering Group is made up of the regional thematic networks in Yorkshire and the Humber and we are now seeking additional members to bring additional perspectives on equality and human rights.
You will find links to the following documents below:

An information sheet outlining the role of the network and its steering group.

A short application form for these positions on the steering group.

A leaflet about the network.
The deadline for completed applications is Wednesday 28th May at 5pm. Completed applications should be send to Ruth Beattie, at the address below or emailed to: ruth.beattie@regionalforum.org.uk If you have any queries please contact Ruth Beattie on 0113 394 2300.

NCVO Barclays Leadership Programme 2008 - apply now for an excellent Leeds opportunity!

Thu, 10 Apr 2008 00:00:00 +0100

Outstanding civil society leaders demonstrate a potent blend of qualities and are key to guiding their organisations to become all they can be. The new NCVO Barclays Leadership Programme will enable you to develop these qualities, primarily through a series of facilitated group meetings with other leaders. This opportunity is particularly aimed at leaders in smaller civil society organisations and will run from 3 UK locations including Leeds. How will the programme work? Over a period of 7 months you will meet 5 times with a group of leaders, where you'll receive some input about an aspect of leadership, followed by structured discussion led by our facilitator. In between meetings you'll be given material to help you reflect on your leadership practises. What will you achieve? Through the programme you will achieve a clearer understanding of the qualities demonstrated by effective leaders. We anticipate that this will bring new insight to your leadership approach, and bring transformation to your organisation as a result. We also anticipate that you will develop fruitful and inspiring relationships with other leaders. Who's it for? To gain maximum benefit from this programme, you will need to be already in a position of leadership and able to bring live examples of leadership challenges to group discussion. You may be a chair of trustees or a chief executive or a leader of a team within your organisation. The programme has been designed for those representing small organisations - you can read more about our suggested eligibility criteria at http://www.ncvo-vol.org.uk/leadershipprogramme. To apply, for more information, or with any questions please contact Claire Curtis on 020 7520 2511 or mailto:claire.curtis@ncvo-vol.org.uk. ** The closing date for applications is Friday 18th April 2008 **

Sub National Review - Consultation launched

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 00:00:00 +0100

The long awaited consultation on the Sub National Review has been published. The full consultation document along with information on how to respond can be found at: http://www.berr.gov.uk/consultations/page45474.html. The Regional Forum is in the process of formulating a response to the Sub National Review on behalf of the voluntary and community sector in our region, more details on the consultation will be released shortly. All responses must be submitted by 20th June 2008, the online process will open next week.

"Now's the time..." Regional Minister makes first speech

Tue, 05 Feb 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Over 100 delegates gathered in York yesterday for Nows the time, the Regional Forums Annual Conference. Those who attended heard Rosie Winterton MP, the new Regional Minister for Yorkshire and the Humber give her first speech in her new ministerial role along with different perspectives of the Sub-National Review (SNR) from Chris Megainey, the chief Civil Servant who oversees the implementation of the SNR and local politician Cllr Peter Box, Chair of the Yorkshire and Humber Assembly and Leader of Wakefield District Council. Reflecting on personal family experiences, Rosie spoke of her past associations with the voluntary and community sector, her Uncle ran a home for the blind during the 30s and was happy to speak to the sector again after her close involvement whilst with the Department of Health. She highlighted that during that consultation, the popular views held by the statutory sector, that the third sector was often not properly organised or resourced were quite the opposite. Referring to the SNR, Rosie said that the next few months were uncertain but there was now an opportunity to take things forward, to ensure all views were heard and she was delighted to be playing a role in that process. She was also sorry that plans for a regional government hadnt taken off, for her regional devolution meant proper accountability, transparency and organisations that reflect local principles. She acknowledged the enormous contribution that the sector and the Regional Forum makes, reflecting something of the Yorkshire Spirit, adding that we all need to celebrate what the region is about and to talk it up. Above all Yorkshire and the Humber is a great place to business and a great place to live, and we should say that loud and clear. On the challenges that lie ahead, Rosie highlighted that strong regions matter to the Government and Whitehall and the emphasis must be on modern governance structures to increase involvement in our communities at a time of disengagement and a decrease in voting. People want to feel more empowered, how can power and responsibility be devolved to right level. The region also has challenges in issues such as housing, skills and transport and for her the region needs a strong regional strategy to overcome them, the key is not to have Yorkshire Forward working alone in a vacuum but in partnership with local authorities and the third sector. Rosie was very keen to meet with leaders in the third sector, to bring together social partners with business to add value to the discussions going on and ensure that the Yorkshire and Humber voice is heard clearly in Whitehall and Westminster, and that policy recognises the reality of what is happening in the region. A full round up of the days events and speeches will follow shortly.

Community Empowerment Workshops

Fri, 01 Feb 2008 00:00:00 +0000

A practice exchange workshop and Action Learning Session on skills for effective representation in communities Community Empowerment Workshop: 10 March 10.00 to 4.00 in Leeds (St. Georges Centre) At this workshop we will be looking at the skills and abilities needed to be an effective representative of the voluntary and community sectors on Local Strategic Partnerships and other strategic groups. To do this we will be sharing our own experience and make use of a set of skills developed through recent research. The National Association for Voluntary and Community Action (NAVCA) has developed a set of competencies for effective representation and well be drawing on these to help us look at our own roles. The workshop will also focus on empowerment how can we act as empowering representatives and leaders? How can we build skills and confidence in others as well as our selves? Well use look at the idea of empowering leadership, again drawing on our own experience, as well as recent work on this carried out by NAVCA. Maximum 20 participants. The Action Learning Session: 17 March - 10.00 to 1.00 (lunch is 1.00 to 1.30) in Leeds (venue to be confirmed) This informal half day session will be an opportunity for people to go into more depth to share their experiences. Using action learning methods we will work in small groups to explore problems and challenges, again drawing on the NAVCA research on skills for effective representation as a broad framework. In comparison to the workshop, this session gives you more time to reflect on your own work in a supportive environment. Maximum 12 participants Both events are open to anyone from the voluntary and community sectors who are involved as representatives on LSPs, either the executive board or thematic partnerships, as well as anyone from the Third or public sectors interested or involved in supporting representatives. Booking: Priority will be given to participants who can attend both sessions complete the form attached or accessible below: We can pay travel expenses by public transport where necessary. Both events are funded through the Yorkshire and the Humber Regional Empowerment Partnership. They are organised by the Regional Forum and facilitated by Steve Skinner, a freelance consultant and trainer who is a well known author on community engagement and capacity building. Steve is joint author of Skilling up for LSPs, research published by NAVCA in 2007 and is currently carrying out further research on representation for NAVCA called Stronger Voices. For more information on the research, please go to www.navca.org.uk The Regional Empowerment Partnership is part of the National Empowerment Partnership which has been established by the Department for Communities and Local Government. The central aim of the national strategy is to improve the quality and functioning of relationships between citizens and government in order to increase the ability of people to influence to decisions which affect their lives. The main purpose of the National Partnership is to improve community empowerment and engagement by showing where they are taking place, how well they are working, what makes them work well and disseminating and applying those lessons widely. This should bring about, over a period of time, an improvement in the quality of community empowerment across England.

Empowering Muslim women - Hazel Blears

Wed, 23 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Communities Secretary Hazel Blears has today called on communities and local authorities across the country to look at what more they can do to improve the opportunities available to Muslim women to play a bigger role in civic society as well as in tackling violent extremism. The Communities Secretary said we need to step up work and increase the number of projects which are supporting Muslim women to play a fuller role in their communities - such as projects aimed at increasing educational opportunities, employment, leadership training and civic empowerment. She said that if we are to create resilient communities we need get better at listening to Muslim women and work together to open the door for more women to get involved. Hazel Blears will write to all local authorities across England with a copy of the first ever Muslim Women's good practice guide "Empowering Muslim Women: Case Studies". She will encourage them to consider how they might work with local groups already engaged with this hard to reach group and offer Muslim women the programmes and training they need to take on a wider role in the community and play a part in tackling violent extremism.

The Drivers of Black and Asian People's Perceptions of Racial Discrimination by Public Services

Mon, 21 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

This report presents findings from research commissioned in order to understand the drivers of Black and Asian people's perceptions of racial discrimination in eight key public services. It report sets out the factors that contribute to perceptions of discrimination or fairness. It concludes with a range of recommendations, based on the respondents' suggestions, on how to ensure that public services are perceived to be fair. To view the full report visit: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/communities/pdf/652045

Progress in the Region 2007

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Progress in the Region is a report produced by Yorkshire Futures which assesses progress in key areas like transport, jobs, housing, crime and the environment. The 2007 version of the report has recently been completed and concludes that Yorkshire and Humber has consolidated its position overall making good progress in some areas, whilst facing major challenges on others. Against 32 headline indicators it concludes that the region has made progress on 12 key issues and lost ground on 9, whilst the position is steady or uncertain on a further 11 indicators. Both the summary and full reports of Progress in the Region 2007 are available online. Progress in the Region 2007

Delivering improved outcomes for young black people in the criminal justice system.

Mon, 17 Dec 2007 00:00:00 +0000

This is a written ministerial statement by Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice Jack Straw on 13 December 2007. He announces the publication of detailed operating proposals to deliver the commitments made in the Government response to a Home Affairs Select Committee Inquiry. To read the full statement visit: http://www.justice.gov.uk/news/announcement_131207a.htm

Rates Of Admission And Detention Remain High For Some Black And Minority Groups Using Mental Health And Learning Disability Services

Mon, 10 Dec 2007 00:00:00 +0000

The findings from a census of the ethnicity of inpatients in mental health and learning disability services were published last week. The figures continue to show that some black and minority ethnic groups are three or more times more likely than average to be admitted as inpatients in mental health and learning disability services. For more information visit: http://www.wired-gov.net/wg/wg-news-1.nsf/lfi/DNWA-79NL3E

A new generation of black role models

Wed, 05 Dec 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Communities Secretary Hazel Blears has announced a national role modelling programme aimed at boosting the number of positive Black role models for our young Black men to aspire to. The programme is one part of a package of measures aimed at countering a culture of low aspirations and low attainment amongst some Black boys and young Black men. The actions are in response to the independent REACH report published in August that highlighted the barriers that are preventing some Black boys from fulfilling their full potential. The group said that if more Black boys and men overcame these barriers, it could benefit the economy by £24billion over the next 50 years. For more information visit: http://www.wired-gov.net/wg/wg-news-1.nsf/lfi/154927

Regional Forum Annual Review 2006 - 2007

Tue, 20 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

The Regional Forum Annual Review 2006 - 2007 has now been published. The Review illustrates as well as celebrates the diverse range of work the Regional Forum has been involved with over the last year. It also highlights that through the continued support and involvement of our membership it enables the Forum to remain a strong advocate and presence for the voluntary and community sector on the regional stage. Many will be receiving a printed copy shortly and it can be viewed and downloaded from: Annual Review 2007

The Queen's Speech 2007

Wed, 07 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

The Government has set out its programme for reform in the first Queen's Speech of Gordon Brown's premiership. Education, housing, health and the environment topped the bill in the Queen's traditional annual address at the State Opening of Parliament. A key proposal on education is to increase the age of compulsory learning, either academic or vocational, to 18 and to improve apprenticeship provision. Legislation will be introduced to create a new Homes and Communities agency with responsibility for affordable housing and regeneration. Planning legislation will also be reformed to make decision - making "quicker and more transparent". On health, the Queen revealed Government plans to establish a health and social care regulator to ensure "clean and safe services". There were 22 seperate bills anounced in the speech, for more detailed information or to read a transcript of the speech visit: http://www.pm.gov.uk/output/Page13708.asp

'Toolkit' for CVS workers to help them develop their work with Refugee Community Organisations (RCOs)

Mon, 05 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

CES and the Refugee Council have commissioned Ceri Hutton and Sue Lukes to produce a 'Toolkit' for CVS workers to help them develop their work with Refugee Community Organisations (RCOs). The toolkit is intended to be a highly practical resource which gives case studies, prompt questions, FAQ and possibly a range of other tools to help capacity building and other staff work better with RCOs. They are looking for help with the following.

Examples of good practice within CVSs working with RCOs
Examples where CVSs are not engaging with RCOs, or have tried but struggled to do so
Examples of any refugee community organisations which have a good or bad story to tell about their interaction with a CVS
Examples of successful toolkits (on any topic, not just refugees) which are user-friendly and useful.
Thoughts on the priority issues and areas, and possibly 'tools', it would be useful to include in such a toolkit

If you have any suggestions, please contact: Ceri Hutton ceri.hutton@gmail.com or Sue Lukes sue.lukes@btinternet.com

FOOTSEY 2007 round up

Wed, 31 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0000

A round up of the days events at this year's FOOTSEY is now available. The e-bulletin also contains a Gallery of pictures of the day along with highlights and details of some of the competition winners.

Regional Compact Launch

Mon, 22 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0100

The Compact on Relations between Government and the Voluntary and Community Sector in England (Compact), first introduced in 1998, is a framework agreement for how the government and the third sector should work together. Together the Compact and Codes set out a range of principles and a shared vision, along with undertakings for all sides. It applies to central government departments, Government Offices for the regions, executive agencies, non-departmental public bodies and to a range of organisations in the third sector. The Compact for the Yorkshire and Humber Region was officially launched at the FOOTSEY 2007 Event at York racecourse on 18th October. The main signatories, who by doing so confirm their organisation's commitment to the document, are: Government Office for Yorkshire and the Humber The Regional Forum Yorkshire and Humber Assembly Yorkshire and Humber Faiths Forum Yorkshire Forward Local Government Yorkshire and Humber The Churches Regional Commission for Yorkshire and the Humber BME VCS Regional Panel The full version of the Compact can be downloaded from: http://www.regionalforum.org.uk/publications_resources/knowledgebase/500/560/250.pdf

Involving Asian Families in Learning

Mon, 08 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Involving Asian Families in Learning is a programme about Pakistani and Bangladeshi parents getting involved in FLLN. It was filmed in Rochdale, Derby and Croydon. The programme will be broadcast on Tuesday 9 October at 4:30pm and 8:30pm and available online shortly after. Copies of the programme are included in a case study guide and toolkit, to be published in late October. It describes the approaches in more detail and includes a section to support CPD for professionals who want to develop their practice. Information on ordering the resource Involving Asian Families in Learning: a toolkit for practitioners will be online shortly. Teachers TV can be watched online at http://wwwteachers.tv, or on channels Sky:880, Virgin:240, Tiscali:845 and Freeview:88 (4-5pm)

Race Equality Review - Patient/Public and Staff reviewers needed

Thu, 27 Sep 2007 00:00:00 +0100

The Healthcare Commission has evidence that performance in the NHS on race equality needs to improve. They are looking for volunteers to help find out how people from different racial backgrounds, including newly arrived and transient communities, are treated in the NHS. The inspections will take place during December 2007, January and February 2008. Volunteers will need to:

know about race and cultural requirements of minority groups, including newly arrived and transient communities, within their community and how these might impact on access and experience of healthcare
be good at listening and be able to communicate with others
be able to work as a member of a team and to work with other people to get things done

For more information clink on the link below:

CRE launches final legacy document

Wed, 26 Sep 2007 00:00:00 +0100

The CRE has recently launched its final legacy document. The report outlines the current state of race in the UK today, with facts and statistics relating to all aspects of British life, from young people, health and education through to employment, communities, sport and local government. In it, the CRE sets out the challenges faced in creating an integrated society and some key steps that need to be taken to reduce pernicious inequalities, growing social segregation and declining participation. For more information and to download a copy of the document visit: http://www.wired-gov.net/wg/wg-news-1.nsf/lfi/DNWA-77EBXU

Public perceptions about Ethnic minority women at work are out of touch with the times

Wed, 26 Sep 2007 00:00:00 +0100

New research reveals that people's perceptions of ethnic minority women in the workplace are lagging behind the reality. Nearly four in 10 people (37%) think that unemployed Bangladeshi and Pakistani women face cultural and religious barriers that prevent them from working. The survey also showed that around a half (53%) of people thought that white British women in work were more likely than ethnic minority women in work to have a degree. For more information visit: http://www.wired-gov.net/wg/wg-news-1.nsf/lfi/151843

The Brown Government and Learning and Skills

Tue, 03 Jul 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Whats the new Brown Government got to say about Learning and Skills? Childrens Services The new Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) will bring together all policy related to children and young people. It takes the Respect Agenda from the Home Office and will share Youth Justice with the Ministry of Justice, child poverty with the Treasury and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), childrens health with the Department of Health (DoH) and youth sport with the Department for Culture. Beverley Hughes is Minister for Children and Youth Justice. Schools Schools will be run by the DCSF under Ed Balls. The DCSF will set pre 19 education policy and work with the new Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS) on education reforms for 14-19 yrs old. 14-19 School pupils in this age group and (probably) sixth form college students will come under the DCSF. General further education college students and apprentices aged 16-19 will come under DIUS. Although 16-19 year olds in general Further Education (FE) colleges will be in institutions that are accountable to DIUS, they and sixth form college students will be funded via local education authorities. Adult Learning DIUS will cover further education, including foundation degrees and workplace training that attracts public funding. Barring further change it will take over Train to gain, basic skills and oversee the £4 billion adult portion of the LSC budget. Universities One of the immediate goals of the new DIUS will be to raise graduate skills. Under John Denham, it will oversee the development, funding and performance of higher education both in teaching and research. It will also take over science and innovation from the Department for Trade and Industry (DTI). The Higher Education Minister Bill Rammell will stay.

Common Ground: Equality, Good Race Relations and Sites for Gypsies and Irish Travellers

Mon, 17 Jul 2006 00:00:00 +0100

The Commission for Racial Equality (CRE) has recently published the report of their enquiry into site provision for Gypsies and Travellers in England and Wales. It is a large document (290 pages) and may take a few moments to download. www.cre.gov.uk/publs/cat_fi.html

Regional Economic Strategy Review Consultation with BME Communities

Tue, 24 May 2005 00:00:00 +0100

Advance Notification As part of its commitment to diversity, Yorkshire Forward is planning to hold two Regional Economic Strategy (RES) review consultation events targeted at the BME communities. One event will be focused particularly at the Asian community and the other event will be targeted at Afrocarribean communities. These will take place in late July / early August. As soon as we receive confirmation of the dates for these events, information will be posted on this website.

Black and Minority Ethnic Voluntary and Community Sector Infrastructure Briefing

Tue, 12 Apr 2005 00:00:00 +0100

From Government Office for Yorkshire and the Humber 1. Tender to develop and deliver a BME VCS Regional Panel Government Office for Yorkshire and the Humber received four tender proposals. Having evaluated the tenders carefully, and considered the recommendations made in the Social Business Companys final report on black and minority ethnic (BME) voluntary and community sector (VCS) infrastructure the projects steering group has decided to progress the proposal put forward by the Regional Forum, subject to clarification on one or two points. The steering group agreed that the Forums proposal offered the best development opportunities for both generic and BME VCS infrastructure. The Social Business Company (SBC) will be giving the Forum specific support whilst the BME VCS Regional Panel is being developed. Those involved in this work at the Forum will also be meeting with a wider reference group each month. Potentially, the reference group could be made up of individuals from SBCs reference group and individuals from the statutory agencies (ie Government Office, Yorkshire and Humber Assembly, Yorkshire Forward), but membership of this wider reference group is still to be confirmed. Briefing will be made available after each of these meetings. 2. ChangeUp and BME voluntary and community sector infrastructure Government Office for Yorkshire and the Humber (GOYH) has recently received infrastructure investment plans from the Regional Forum and the sub-regional VCS infrastructure consortia, which the ChangeUp team is appraising. GOYH is also currently tendering for the development of a VCS infrastructure race equality framework, against which the Regional Forum and the sub-regional consortia can appraise their infrastructure investment plans and the plans delivery. You can view the tender specification on the Regional Forums website, or request it from Cressida Woodall (contact details below). We would expect the BME VCS Regional Panel to have a role in monitoring the Forums and consortias performance against the framework but the details of this are still being discussed. 3. BME voluntary and community infrastructure and engagement project The final report on this project has now been produced and circulated to everyone who took part in the project. You can download a copy of the report: Proposing Options for Effective BME Engagement Across Yorkshire and the Humber from the Regional Forum or Yorkshire and Humber Assemblys website, or request a hard copy from Cressida Woodall. 4. Summary of key dates: 15 April 2005 2014 (ChangeUp strategy group) meeting 29 April 2005 Deadline for tenders for VCS infrastructure race equality framework delivery plan 1 May 2005 First steps taken to implement successful tenderers work plan to develop a BME VCS Regional Panel 20 May 2005 First meeting between successful tenderer and BME VCS Regional Panel Reference Group 31 May 2005 VCS infrastructure race equality framework delivered Early June 2005 Regional Forum and sub-regional consortia trained in using race equality framework. We will continue to post progress updates on the websites mentioned above, but if you have any questions in the meantime, please contact Cressida Woodall in GOYHs Community Policy and Diversity team (Tel: 0113 283 6305).

"Making a Difference" Report

Mon, 11 Apr 2005 00:00:00 +0100

This report is the result of an extensive and detailed study by the Social Business Company (SBC), which highlights the process, findings and recommendations for options for effective BME engagement in Yorkshire and the Humber. The Government Office for Yorkshire and the Humber (GOYH) commissioned this study in June 2004, supported by the regions statutory partners: Yorkshire and Humber Assembly and Yorkshire Forward (the Regional Development Agency) and the Yorkshire and Humber Regional Forum for the Voluntary and Community Sector. The Social Business Company was asked to develop a series of options that could potentially support the development needs of the black and minority ethnic sector voluntary and community sector in the Yorkshire and Humber region. These development needs can be identified as: i. effective black and minority ethnic (BME) advocacy at the regional level; ii. ongoing support that will enable sub-regional and local BME and non-BME voluntary and community sector (VCS) organisations to fully engage and benefit from wider VCS infrastructure support at a district, sub-regional and regional level. A project Steering Group, made up of community members and individuals from the regional partners mentioned above oversaw the work. To download the full report, please click below. If you would prefer to read the executive summary, please click here Executive Summary