News

Somerset VCSE Strategic Forum events

July 18, 2019

On midsummer’s day the VCSE Strategic Forum held its annual Leader’s Conference at Monks Yard, Ilminster. Around 80 leaders from the Voluntary and Community sector across Somerset attended to hear presentations from their peers, including inspirational keynote speeches from the Chief Executive of the NSPCC and former CEO of the Big Lottery, Peter Wanless, who called on the sector to be bold in their ambition and vision, and from Patrick Nash, founder of Enterprise Values, who spoke about his ‘not-for-loss’ approach to social change. Delegates also attended workshops delivered by digital specialists Cosmic and The Whole Story – a training programme which helps groups tell compelling stories. There was also lots of opportunity to network.

The next year’s Leaders Conference is already being planned so please do get in touch if you are interested in attending, by contacting: Alison Baker on: somersetvcse@gmail.com

The Strategic Forum also recently hosted two open forums, each with a specific theme. At the beginning of July around 60 people attended the Somerset VCSE Strategic Forum: Safer Communities conference at Long Sutton Golf course where they heard about the Safer Somerset Partnership, referral pathways, Somerset One Teams, and serious and organised crime across the county. Public sector officers from the County Council met with representatives from voluntary and community groups and discussed how they can work collaboratively to deliver long-term plans.

The Future of Social Care Interactive Workshop was held in mid-July, in Bridgwater. Those attending had the opportunity to explore the challenges faced in this area and heard from Stephen Chandler, Director of Adult Services at Somerset County Council, outlining why Somerset chose to engage with a recent Panorama television programme. Delegates also got the chance to hear from Senior Commissioners about initiatives already in place and a lively discussion ensued on how the VCSE sector can work together to address issues within Adult Social Care.


Charity Awards LogoGood Finance LogoRegistered with FUNDRAISING REGULATOR UK Community Foundations member
Registered Charity No. 1094446
Registered in England and Wales No. 4530979
Website by Cosmic ethical i.t