Survey suggests TSOs are dissatisfied with public sector

Results of a recent survey suggest that third sector organisations (TSOs) and statutory bodies do not have good working relationships.

 

The survey, conducted by Ipsos Mori on behalf of the Office of the Third Sector (OTS), asked more than 50,000 not-for-profit organisations whether they thought local statutory bodies such as councils, health trusts and public authorities had a positive impact on their success.

 

Only a very small proportion of respondents (16%) agreed that their dealings with statutory bodies had resulted in positive effects, whilst an indifferent 51% stated the influence of public sector bodies was neither positive nor negative.

 

According to the OTS, the results of the survey have been announced in order to mark a “starting point for change”.  It is hoped the results will encourage public sector bodies to prioritise fostering better relations with the Third Sector, in order to create an environment in which voluntary organisations can thrive.

 

For further information visit:

 

www.nstso.com

 

Source: Office of the Third Sector

New volunteering opportunities for young people

V, the youth volunteering charity, have this week launched a new funding programme to promote volunteering amongst disadvantaged young people. 

 

The scheme, worth £10.5 million, is intended to encourage up to 1000 young people to volunteer full time through public sector placements at nurseries, play programmes and youth clubs.  Each participant will receive a maintenance grant to cover living costs and, once they have completed the course, a personal development grant of up to £1,500, to pay for further education or training.

 

It is anticipated that the programme will last for two years and will involve around 35 local authorities across England.  In keeping with their aim to target disadvantaged youths, v have stated that up to 40% of the placements must be given to young people not currently in employment or education.

 

Terry Ryall, v chief executive, explained that it is hoped the scheme will engage and inspire young people – possibly even drawing out “hidden talents that might otherwise go unnoticed”.

 

For further information visit:

 

http://www.wearev.com/index.php

 

 

Source: v

23.09.08 (1)

Call for local authorities to co-operate with communities

 

The success of the government’s new asset transfer unit, in place to encourage the handing over of disused public buildings to communities and community groups, currently hangs in the balance.

 

Led by the Development Trusts Association (DTA), with support from the Local Government Association and Community Matters, the programme is set to launch in January across 60 local authorities in England.

 

According to Hazel Blears, Communities Secretary, speaking this week at the DTA’s annual conference in Leeds, the unit should be set to accelerate asset transfer following its introduction but local authorities and community organisations must work together in order for it to be a success.  She spoke of the establishment of a “long-term relationship” between the two, in order to forge a “hard-headed business model that works”, if the programme is going to be effective.

 

Despite these concerns, many local council workers and members of local voluntary groups are hoping this programme will see communities benefit from the credit crunch – by allowing them to acquire valuable and sustainable communal assets.  And with an ongoing trend of less private sector interest in public property, the voluntary sector could be set to take even more control of local services and facilities…

 

Source: New Start