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.

Changes to Train to Gain funding

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 00:00:00 +0100

The Government has announced that £200 million of the Train to Gain budget will be redirected to fund the delivery of 50,000 Apprenticeship places and establish a fund for college building programmes. The Skills Funding Agency will continue to administer these funds and the remaining Train to Gain budget.

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

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

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/

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

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

Apprenticeships, Skills, Children and Learning Act 2009 passes final hurdle

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0000

The Apprenticeships, Skills, Children and Learning Act has received Royal Assent, bringing in a host of new measures to prepare for the countrys long-term economic and social needs and build on the huge rise in school standards over the last decade. The Act provides the first complete legislative overhaul of Apprenticeships legislation for nearly 200 years putting the new Apprenticeship Offer for suitably qualified young people on a statutory basis from 2013 and ensures a good quality apprenticeship for apprentices and employers alike. It is a key step towards meeting Ministers ambitions that one in five young people will undertake an apprenticeship by 2020. It introduces the landmark time to train initiative, which will give employees the legal right to request time to train throughout their working lives. The introduction of the right will be phased and will be made available to employees in large businesses from April 2010 before being extended to all employees from April 2011. The other key measure of the Act is that local authorities will take on responsibility for securing education and training for all 16 to 19 year olds, to create a single, joined up offer for all children and young people from 0 to 19, while the new Skills Funding Agency will oversee a new demand-led approach to education and training provision for adults, better tailored to the needs of businesses and learners themselves.

Department for Children, Schools and Families publishes third sector strategy

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 00:00:00 +0100

The Department for Children, Schools and Families has published a strategy for how it will work with third sector organisations. The document, Third Sector Strategy and Action Plan: Intention into Action, was produced in partnership with the department's third sector group. The DCSF commits itself to improving awareness of the importance of the third sector among its partners and at a local level, improving the standard of third sector commissioning, involving the third sector in the design of services and communicating more effectively with third sector organisations. To view and download the plan visit: Third sector strategy

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

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.

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.

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.

Train to Gain Enhancement Fund

Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0000

The Train to Gain Enhancement Fund is of interest to voluntary sector employers and training providers because it supports many more types of training, indeed everything that cant be funded through the main Train to Gain programme. The estimated total Fund allocation for Yorkshire and the Humber is £50m, and it will be a live fund operating until March 2010, with tendering rounds every two to three months. The Voluntary, Community and Faith sector is a priority sector for the Enhancement Fund, particularly through the Commissioned Delivery route and the Single Business Application route. There is more about the different routes to access the fund later in this article, but for those who have worked with the Skills Fund, the Enhancement Fund is similar in purpose and processes. The Train to Gain Enhancement Fund is funded by the European Social Fund (ESF), the Learning and Skills Council for Yorkshire & Humber (LSC) and Yorkshire Forward (YF). Management of the Fund was awarded to the West Yorkshire Consortium of Colleges (WYCC) and Calderdale College is leading this fund and is the accountable body. This means that the college is effectively acting on behalf of the LSCYH to commission and then contract with organisations who will deliver the activity. What can be supported? Of greatest interest to the voluntary and community sector is possibly the bespoke training, for organisations with their own training courses suited only to them, and the non-accredited training. Levels 1 to beyond 4, and other accredited qualifications are also covered, where these are not met by the main Train to Gain programme. Three Routes to the Fund Single Business Application (9-15m) The Single Business Application (SBA) is specifically for meeting the needs of individual businesses or organisations. It applies to employees over the age of 16, and the Voluntary and Community sector is a priority sector. A possible downside of this route for the VCS is that a 40% cash contribution is expected, so it is advisable to consider training needs and budgets carefully. Contact: sba@calderdale.ac.uk Provider Route (6-10m) This is a direct application route for providers, or small cohorts of organisations, such as learning consortia. The main eligibility is that there should be a common training need. There is no minimum value, and a maximum value of £100,000. Again, a 40% employer contribution is expected. Approval timescales are short with approval being within 15 days of receipt of an endorsed and fully completed application, and contracted activity expected to begin 15 days following approval. Commissioned Activity (15-25m) The following specifications have been launched: A Pre Apprenticeship Programme to improve levels of e2e learners progressing onto an Apprenticeship programme (for South Yorkshire); Skills Advisor Programme; and a Rapid Response Redundancy Programme, presently establishing a list of preferred providers who can offer support to individuals facing redundancy. Contact: www.enhancementfund.co.uk

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.

Formation of a new Regional Citizenship Learning Alliance

Mon, 06 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0100

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

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

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

Fri, 20 Jun 2008 00:00:00 +0100

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

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

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 **

Big Lottery funding for ground breaking on-line learning resource for charity workers and volunteers

Mon, 18 Feb 2008 00:00:00 +0000

The project will deliver an e-learning network, designed specifically for the broad Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) and will concentrate on informal learning. It will NOT re-invent the wheel, and will have a heavy emphasis on linking its users through to other sites and experts providing relevant information and learning materials entirely online. The e-Learning network will be a strategic and practical solution to reduce the intractable learning deficit within the VCS; the sector spends as little as 1% of its wage bill on training and developing talent which compares with 3% in the commercial and public sectors. Sector surveys repeatedly report skills shortages. For more information visit: http://www.centreforcharityeffectiveness.org/newsletter_jan08/blfannounce.htm

Colleges to play a greater role in promoting community cohesion and preventing extremism

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Colleges have a responsibility to foster shared values and protect their students and staff from those who wish to intimidate and promote violence, Bill Rammell, Minister for Further and Higher Education has said. The proposals are part of a consultation, published on the 11th of February 2008, on the role of Further Education (FE) colleges in promoting community cohesion, fostering shared values and preventing violent extremism. The FE consultation mirrors the updated guidance issued to Higher Education institutions last month. The Government's assessment is that the biggest current threat the UK faces is from Al Qa'ida-influenced terrorism. Our judgment is that the threat in FE Colleges is serious but not widespread. Government has been working with the Association of Colleges to develop the consultation which will lead to the first guidance to colleges on tackling extremism and promoting community cohesion. The Further Education sector faces its own unique issues and challenges in fostering community cohesion, promoting our shared values and tackling violent extremism. FE intuitions are often at the heart of local communities and serve students diverse in terms of age and background. For more information visit: http://www.wired-gov.net/wg/wg-news-1.nsf/lfi/157397

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.

DWP consultation on voluntary sector involvement in Welfare to Work

Thu, 17 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

In November 2007, the DWP published the interim findings of their work to develop this strategy. This can be found at http://www.dwp.gov.uk/supplyingdwp You can contribute your views on the draft commissioning strategy directly to DWP at mailto:commissioning.strategy@dwp.gsi.gov.uk

Empowering learners in the modern age

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

The introduction of 'virtual' vouchers to enable some adults to fund their own informal learning is just one proposal being considered as part of a Government consultation launched today. The consultation on informal adult learning, or learning for which the gaining of qualifications is not the main purpose, argues that developments such as this could be necessary if Government support for this education is to reflect the growing demands from learners. Many people are now making better use of the internet, other new technologies and the voluntary sector rather than traditional classroom based education. The consultation will be spearheaded by working groups made up of major organisations from broadcasting and new technologies, the voluntary sector, other government departments, families and older people. The aim is to formulate new proposals to further expand learning and ensure that people have more control over the format and availability of courses. Organisations that are signed up to take part in the work alongside the Government include Help the Aged, The University of the Third Age, the Family Learning Network, English Heritage, BBC, BSkyB, Microsoft and the TUC. John Denham, Secretary of State for Innovation, Universities and Skills outlined the purpose of the consultation in a speech to the Social Market Foundation. He argued that while it was right for the Government to prioritise 'formal' education to enable people to develop their skills and gain better jobs, informal adult learning also has a vital role in shaping our country. He argued the time was right for this consultation because there has been a "quiet revolution" in how this learning is accessed and delivered. For more information visit: http://www.wired-gov.net/wg/wg-news-1.nsf/lfi/156376

Fundamental review of primary curriculum

Wed, 09 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

A comprehensive independent root and branch review of the primary curriculum to create a smoother transition between early years and school education and help boost standards has been launched. The Children, Schools and Families Secretary Ed Balls, has written to Sir Jim Rose - who led the highly influential phonics review - setting out the terms of reference for the wide-ranging review, the most fundamental primary review in a decade. For more information and to read the letter visit: http://www.wired-gov.net/wg/wg-news-1.nsf/lfi/156189

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

Final phase of the Government's Pathways to Work

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

The final phase of the Government's flagship Pathways to Work programme to help people off incapacity benefits and into work is announced today. Pathways to Work provides support from highly skilled personal advisers from the public, private and voluntary sectors who will ensure that the long-term unemployed receive the specialist help they need to get back to work, including extra one to one work-focused interviews, groundbreaking rehabilitation support, a Return to Work Credit of £40 a week, and in-work assistance. For more information visit: http://www.wired-gov.net/wg/wg-news-1.nsf/lfi/155730

Forward Together Event Report

Wed, 12 Dec 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Held on the 7th November 2007, the event featured a keynote speech by Margaret Coleman, Director of the LSC West Yorkshire, a video message from Phil Hope MP, and a speech by Richard Williams of Rathbone.

Colleges must meet challenge to change

Mon, 26 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Colleges must change to meet the world of work or lose funding. Addressing College Principals at the Association of Colleges annual conference 'Shaping Futures' in Birmingham, Secretary of State for Innovation, Universities and Skills John Denham urged training providers to engage with employers and individuals "as never before" to ensure they provide the skills and training their communities need. For more information visit: Colleges must meet challenge to change

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

£4 million to help gifted pupils and boost University entries from deprived communities

Wed, 14 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Schools Minister Andrew Adonis has announced £4 million of new funding for independent/state school partnerships to encourage progression to university among gifted and talented pupils from deprived communities with a special focus on maths, science and modern foreign languages. "There are still neighbourhoods where going to university is exceptional and individual talent is wasted." said Mr Adonis. For more information visit: http://www.wired-gov.net/wg/wg-news-1.nsf/lfi/154057

School funding settlement 2008-11

Mon, 12 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Minister for Schools and Learners Jim Knight has announced the first ever three-year school funding settlement for every local authority in England for 2008-11. The revenue funding settlement targets key priority areas, including closing the attainment gap between disadvantaged pupils and their peers. Total revenue schools funding will be £38 billion in 2008-09; £39.8 billion in 2009-10; and £41.9 billion in 2010-11. For more information visit: http://www.wired-gov.net/wg/wg-news-1.nsf/lfi/153956

Promise - Delivering Inclusion in Yorkshire and the Humber

Mon, 12 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Launched recently by the Yorkshire and Humber Assembly, The Promise is the regions new approach to inclusion. This document marks a new phase in how the region will work together to address this issue building on work that the region has already carried out. It is called Promise for two reasons. Firstly, the title describes a commitment to improve the life chances of the poorest communities and people in our region. Secondly, it refers to the promise that we can see in our most disadvantaged neighbourhoods - the untapped potential that the region cannot afford not to use. Also launched were the Julian Cummins Awards: seven key factor bursary awards, to allow voluntary and community sector groups to share and develop new and innovative inclusion working practices. Named as a tribute to the late Rev Dr Julian Cummins who, both as a member of the Yorkshire and Humber Assembly and as a Board member of Yorkshire Forward, was passionate about inclusion issues.

Green Light from Government for Sub-regional Jobs Boost

Thu, 08 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

At the Core Cities Summit, Communities Secretary Hazel Blears unveiled thirteen sub-regions that are drawing up proposals to boost jobs, transport, investment and housing through greater co-operation. The areas which span the country from the North East to South West will potentially receive new powers to collaborate in promoting prosperity and development as part of the Government's drive to ensure that every region benefits from rising national prosperity. Each area is producing their own plans to tackle the key issues in their area rather than following a prescribed approach by central Government. South Yorkshire for example is prioritising improving housing, whereas Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole will boost skills and capitalise on hosting Olympic sailing competitions. Almost all proposals have tackling worklessness as a key priority. Local Government Minister John Healey also published a new report "COMPETE" at the conference on eight leading European cities that are beacons for regeneration. Sheffield receives significant coverage in the report. To read the full story, visit Core Cities Summit

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

Cash boost for Early Years

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

Free nursery education for every three and four year old, backed by £340 million has been announced by Children's Minister, Beverley Hughes. The cash will be used to extend the free early education entitlement for all 3 and 4 year-olds, from 12.5 to 15 hours each week. The extension will be rolled out across the country over the next three years, and all local authorities will offer the extended entitlement by 2010. For more information visit: http://www.wired-gov.net/wg/wg-news-1.nsf/lfi/153793

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

Not enough being done to narrow the gap -

Wed, 17 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Her Majesty's Chief Inspector of Education, Children's Services and Skills, Christine Gilbert, has called for renewed efforts to narrow the gap and improve the care and education of children and young people who have the odds stacked against them. Her first annual report for the new Office for Standards in Education, Children's Services and Skills (Ofsted) finds a broadly positive picture across education, child care and adult skills. She also said that not enough was being done to raise achievement and aspirations, particularly for children in public care - but that there was evidence that the gap can be narrowed. For more information visit: http://www.wired-gov.net/wg/wg-news-1.nsf/lfi/DNWA-783FLW

New English language qualifications for migrant workers and employers

Tue, 16 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0100

A new set of English language qualifications has been launched by Minister of State for Lifelong Learning, Further and Higher Education, Bill Rammell MP. The new ESOL for Work qualifications [ESOL=English for Speakers of Other Languages] should make it easier for employers and migrant workers to get the functional English language skills they need. The qualifications offer a solution specifically tailored to the needs of employers and will encourage employers to contribute to the cost of training their staff. The new qualifications are shorter and more work-focused than traditional ESOL qualifications, giving learners practical English skills in essential workplace matters, such as health & safety and customer service. As well as better accuracy, efficiency and effectiveness, the new qualifications will help employers benefit from improved communication and productivity. For more information visit: http://www.wired-gov.net/wg/wg-news-1.nsf/lfi/152878

Commission for Disabled Staff in Lifelong Learning Interim Report Consultation

Mon, 15 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0100

NIACE launched the Commission for Disabled Staff in Lifelong Learning at the beginning of 2007. The Commission for Disabled Staff in Lifelong Learning has now completed the interim report about the issues and experiences of disabled staff working in lifelong learning (including further and higher education, adult and community learning and work based learning). They would like to know whether the key issues identified in the interim report are right and whether there any other issues organisatioons think they should explore and highlight. They would like to hear from any individual or organisation interested in the issues discussed in the report. Responses will be used to contribute to the final report in March 2008. All responses need to be submitted by Friday 7th December 2007. The questions are available at: http://www.niace.org.uk/projects/commissionfordisabledstaff/

Over 100 employers sign up to employment initiative

Thu, 11 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Over 100 employers have signed up to the 'LEP' initiative to help 250,000 people off benefits and into work. Employers from a range of sectors - such as banking and finance, hospitality, retail and local councils - have now committed to the DWP's Local Employment Partnership. For more information about Peter Hain's Speech visit: http://www.wired-gov.net/wg/wg-news-1.nsf/lfi/152622

Futurebuilders England seeks views on its bid preparations

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

Futurebuilders England is hoping to win the tender for 2008-11 and is seeking views from third sector organisations to support its bid preparations. This is an opportunity for organisations to feed directly into their bid preparations and have a direct impact on how Futurebuilders England will bid for the contract to manage the fund from April 2008. Submissions are required by Friday 12th October 2007. For more information visit: http://www.futurebuilders-england.org.uk/content/News/newstest/article_37_489.aspx?iid=72"

Citizens Advice and Jobcentre Plus forge new partnership

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

Citizens Advice and Jobcentre Plus have announced a new partnership agreement to improve links between them and deliver better advice and support to people in England and Wales. This cooperation, both locally and nationally, will enable both organisations to give their clients and customers the best possible advice and support. It will also provide greater opportunities for Citizens Advice and other local partners to contribute to the development and delivery of further improved Jobcentre Plus services. For more information visit: http://www.wired-gov.net/wg/wg-news-1.nsf/lfi/151962

£2 billion investment for jobs and skills

Tue, 04 Sep 2007 00:00:00 +0100

A £2 billion investment in jobs and skills in England over the next seven years from the European Union has been agreed for a new European Social Fund programme. All regions of England will benefit from the new programme, which will fund a range of activities such as job search advice and support, confidence building, basic skills and vocational qualifications. Target groups for the new European Social Fund programme include unemployed people, disabled people, lone parents, older workers, ethnic minorities, low skilled people, and young people not in education, employment or training. The new programme will be formally launched at an event at the Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre in London on 29 October 2007. The first application rounds will take place in the autumn and new projects will start in early 2008. In the meantime, the 2000-2006 ESF programme will continue to fund project activity until the middle of 2008.

Third Sector Review Final Report Published

Wed, 25 Jul 2007 00:00:00 +0100

The review report, The future role of the third sector in social and economic regeneration, sets out a strategy to promote the partnership between the Government and the third sector over the next ten years. The review was undertaken by the Treasury and the Cabinet Office. Most of the measures announced in the report will be led by the Office of the Third Sector, which will invest more than £515 million over the next three years in third sector programmes to support thousands of community organisations across the country. The main aims outlined in the report are to help give third sector organisations a greater voice and to work with the sector to strengthen communities, transform public services, encourage social enterprise and support the conditions for the sector to thrive. Also included is a section on building a robust evidence base for the sector, which includes a proposal to establish a third sector research centre. The report is at: Third Sector Review Final Report where you will also have the chance to 'Have your Say' on the report in a discussion forum.

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.

School and education leaving age set to rise to 17 in 2013 whats our role?

Wed, 13 Jun 2007 00:00:00 +0100

The Government Green paper Raising Expectations: staying in education and training post 16 is out for consultation now. Given a range of economic needs and social factors young people look set to stay in education or training until the age of 17 in 2013 and then to 18 at some later point. The Government points out:

Society has a problem with around 10% of young people in the NEET category (not in education, employment or training)

There are too many young people in jobs with no or few qualifications and no access to further training

The evidence is that the higher your qualifications the more you will earn over your lifetime and the more healthy you will be, you are also less likely to develop criminal or anti social behaviour

The economy needs more people with intermediary and higher level skills given that fewer jobs with low skills will be needed in the furture.

Given these arguments the proposals are to:

Compel all young people to participate in education or training until their 18th birthday

This could be in school, college, work-based learning or in accredited training from an employer

In order to support this new programme there will be five vocationally based Diplomas available from 2008 and a further nine from 2013. There will also be the Foundation Learning Tier to bring together the qualifications and training below Level 2 (5 good GCSEs) from 2010. With the key contribution of the VCS in support for the NEET category of young people there are potentially significant roles for the VCS in a range of ways:

Engaging with young people detached from the mainstream

Bridge building between young people and mainstream providers

Direct support and learning provision

The Regional Forum will be submitting a response to this Green Paper outlining the potential contribution the sector can make. To access the Green Paper go to: Raising Expectations: staying in education and training post 16

Call for bids for 'Reconnect: Joining the Adult Learning Agendas'

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

Reconnect are providing pilot project grants of between £2500 - £7000 to help community based adult learning providers to work together to increase participation in Higher Education by underrepresented groups. To be considered, projects must fit one of the following four themes:

Connecting sectors

Mapping and tracking

Connecting agendas

Dissemination

All project bids must be submitted by 18th April. An application pack containing a briefing document, delivery plan, delivery plan guidelines and assessment criteria can be downloaded below.

"Futureskills" - our regional Skills Action Plan

Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:00:00 +0000

We now have our first regional voluntary and community sector Skills Action Plan. This is a key stage in accessing the right workforce development opportunities for our sector - given that to date we have not had a generic Sector Skills Council to move on this issue. This crucial work has been led by Humberside Learning Consortium and the Regional Forum, with support from the Learning and Skills Council. The whole Action plan can be accessed below - in the meantime the headlines are as follows: The Hit List the top 11 priorities for workforce development are:

To develop and promote a way of collecting workforce development information that is consistent, constant and easy to collect

To undertake a biennial state of the voluntary sector workforce and provision survey in Yorkshire and the Humber

To run a trustee recruitment campaign across the region

To develop a regional publicity programme that promotes the voluntary sector as a work and career option - to include both general and targeted campaigns (e.g. BME communities, young people, men, people with disabilities, long-term unemployed etc.)

To implement a region-wide framework for strategic and business planning to include progression pathways and programmes for voluntary sector managers

To establish a region-wide programme of human resource management support

To undertake a feasibility study into a voluntary sector governance and leadership centre for Yorkshire and the Humber in collaboration with the Third Sector Leadership Centre

To develop an e-bulletin service for leadership and management to send out the latest information on skills issues and learning opportunities directly to managers' desktops

To invest in improved volunteer management and development by volunteer involving organisations and lobby for the inclusion of volunteers in the "Train to Gain" programme

To improve regional dialogue with Sector Skills Councils that have a significant footprint in the voluntary sector, e.g. Skills for Care, Skills for Justice, Asset, Skills Active

To support the role of community development work in engaging people in informal learning, supporting them into accredited programmes and into work

Voluntary Sector Sector Skills Council

Tue, 13 Mar 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Four years after losing the argument to have a generic Sector Skills Council (SSC) - and four years of mostly making no headway with the Sector Skills Development Agency (SSDA) the wheel seems to have turned full circle. Recently the VCS National Working Together Advisory Group signalled its strong support for this anomaly to be finally addressed. Rob Wye/Director of Strategy at the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) and Cheryl Turner/Senior Policy officer for the VCS at the LSC attended a meeting last week at the Treasury, hosted jointly by the Treasury and the Cabinet Office to discuss setting up a Sector Skills Council for the Third Sector. The link below will take you through to an update of the key issues discussed at this meeting. It was agreed that a small group would meet to discuss the issues in more detail and Cheryl Turner has been asked to go on the group on behalf of the LSC. She would welcome any comments on things that the VCS would want included as principles or operational issues that would need to be addressed - John at the Regional Forum is happy to collate these responses. If you would like further details or you would like to feed back comments, please contact John Harris on 0113 394 2300 or email: john.harris@regionalforum.org.uk

Delivering World Class Skills in a Demand Led System - Consultation

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

The National Institute for Adult Continuing Education (NIACE) has been asked by the Department for Education & Skills (DfES) to organise two consultation events on the document, "Delivering World Class Skills in a Demand Led System", published jointly by the DfES and the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) at the end of January. The link to the document on the LSC website can be found here, Delivering Skills in a Demand Led System This is an important document as it outlines new DfES/LSC proposals for radically reforming the learning and skills funding, planning and regulatory system in order to put employers and learners more in the driving seat. The proposals are likely to be challenging for learning providers. If they are implemented in their current form, they will mean very different ways in which LSC funding will flow and indeed quite a different role for the LSC, less of a planner and more of a market maker. The document was published formally as a consultation document and the DfES wants to encourage responses from as wide a range of interests as possible. The consultation period ends on Friday 30 March 2007 - hence the timing of these events. The events are additional to the series being organised by the LSC and will be particularly focused on the implications of these proposals for local authority adult learning services and voluntary sector learning providers. The information will be presented within that context and the discussion themes will be shaped by your specific interests and concerns. LSC officers leading the work on the reforms will be there to present and contribute, and we understand that NIACE has been asked to organise the events in order to ensure there is an opportunity to really think through the implications for adult learning nationally, and specifically for adult learning in the local authority and voluntary sectors, not just organisationally but also sectorally. NIACE will aim to manage the events in order to ensure this happens. There is a choice of events: Wednesday 14th March in London at the Jurys Hotel in Great Russell Street, near Tottenham Court Road Monday 19th March in Birmingham at the Lakeside Conference Centre, Aston University The events are free to you, as the DfES will be funding them. A booking form is attached. We will send out an agenda as confirmation of your booking the week before the event. We envisage the event to be a short day event, possibly from 10.30am until 3pm, but we will confirm this with the agenda. Please return your booking form, by no later than Thursday 8th March 2007, to: London Event on 14th March 2007: Hanako Beeson at hanako.beeson@niace.org.uk Birmingham Event on 19th March 2007: Rachel Hughes at rachel.hughes@niace.org.uk or, alternatively, fax it to 0116 2044262.

Train to Gain: New Programme to support Training and Development

Sat, 17 Feb 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Business Link across the Humber, South and West Yorkshire are providing a new scheme 'Train to Gain' which will help organisations identify training needs. For more information see the below PDF

Going for Excellence in Volunteer Management

Thu, 25 Jan 2007 00:00:00 +0000

The introduction of a corporate style of management and training is good for the volunteering sector, according to a survey run by Volunteering England. This coincides with the launch of their Excellence in Volunteer Management training programme, which is a Pick'n'mix approach of e-learning, a good practice bank, information sheets and more, to enable managers of volunteers to take charge of their own learning. To access this new learning resource use the following link Excellence In Volunteer Management. Please note that some elements of this site are still under construction.

Governance Standards for Public Services

Fri, 24 Nov 2006 00:00:00 +0000

Skills for Justice, working with other Sector Skills Councils with a public sector focus, is developing a suite of National Occupational Standards (NOS) for Governance of Public Services. It is estimated that about 450,000 people in the UK hold governance positions, not including local government councillors.) It is consulting on the National Occupational Standards so far identified. See www.skillsforjustice.com/template01.asp?PageID=223 for background and questionnaire. The closing date for receipt of responses is Friday 12th January 2007.

VCS takes part in NEET Strategic Commissioning Forum

Wed, 01 Nov 2006 00:00:00 +0000

NEET strategic commissioning forum -LSC, Bradford 9th October 2006 Attended by Simon Cale on behalf of LearningNet/Regional Forum VCS learning and skills providers are engaged with the NEETs agenda (Young People Not in Education, Training or Employment) - an issue of real concern for Yorkshire and the Humber. A recent study shows that young people value VCS input because it meets their own needs and is independent of the statutory services. Now the Regional Forum has been asked to nominate a VCS representative to sit on the Yorkshire and Humber Strategic Commissioning Forum - to be chaired by Paul Jagger. At short notice Simon Cale of the National Children's Centre has taken up this place and as usual the Regional Forum will link between the VCS representative and the wider sector. Summary by Simon Cale The forum discussed and took presentations regarding the NEET position in Y+H. The planning process for 07/08 was presented by Liz Butcher, LSC. As part of the discussion, the group agreed that NEET commissioning via the LSC would take into account the opportunities that the VCS could offer in the Region. It was acknowledged that new models of partnership and consortium approaches by the VCS needed to be tested and that the 07/08 planning and commissioning cycle could reference this. The VCS in the Region were adapting to the new Regional LSC commissioning model, but it was pointed out, the small and medium sized VCS organisations that tend to carry out the front line delivery of NEET support work were finding it difficult to enter the Regional commissioning process. It was agreed that the larger VCS organisations in the Region involved in NEET work may be able to pilot a lead consortium approach that involved small and medium VCS organisations at local level regarding delivery to NEETS. Forum members agreed to follow through on this proposal with relevant network contacts. If you have any issues you wish to feed into this process contact simon.cale@nccuk.org.uk and copy to john.harris@regionalforum.org.uk

We're connected to the Top LSC Table

Tue, 03 Oct 2006 00:00:00 +0100

The Good News is that the region has had two key personnel selected to join the National LSC Working Together Committee. Both John Harris of the Regional Forum and Debbie Dale of VC Train in South Yorkshire have won two of the eight places open to competition across the whole of the country. This will mean that as a region we have a route from the local level right up to national in relation to the partnership between the LSC and the VCS - as providers of learning, as employers with skills needs and as sources of expertise and communication. If you want issues to go to the Top then contact John Harris or Debbie Dale. For more details access: http://www.lsc.gov.uk/National/Partners/PolicyandDevelopment/vcs_working-together-strategy-committee.htm

Benchmarking e-learning survey and tool

Wed, 05 Jul 2006 00:00:00 +0100

This LSC commissioned project is part of the Working Together range of projects outlined in this website. The project uses a range of measures to benchmark a number of sector organisations and will provide a snapshot of how these organisations are dealing with e-learning issues. Please comment on the survey - the recommendations are on pages 26-28. Comments on the e-learning benchamarking tool are also welcome. All comments are to be directed to m.simmonds@mrsconsultancy.com