Agenda item

Presentation to follow.

Helen Tomlinson, the Chief Officer for the VCFA, provided an overview of the VCSE sector and its significant contribution to health and well-being. She emphasized the diversity and complexity of the sector, highlighting the various types of voluntary organisations and their unique contributions.

Helen compared the statistics of Bury with those of Greater Manchester (GM) to provide a broader context. She mentioned ongoing research and the need for revised state sector figures to better understand the current state of the sector. This comparison aimed to show how Bury's numbers fit within the larger GM framework and the importance of updated data.

Helen discussed that the voluntary sector in Bury is incredibly diverse, with organisations varying in nature, size, and focus. Helen explained that these groups come together based on geography, shared experiences, or common identities. For example, some organisations are geographically based, while others form around peer support for shared experiences or specific identities like disability groups. This diversity demonstrates the complexity and interconnectedness of the voluntary sector.

Helen highlighted several key points specific to Bury. According to a recent resident survey, 25% of people engage with voluntary community sector (VCS) groups around sports and physical activity, indicating strong community involvement in these areas. Additionally, Bury has a high volunteering rate, with one in three people volunteering, reflecting a robust culture of volunteering. Notably, the Black or Black British community in Bury has a 62% engagement rate in volunteering, significantly higher than the Greater Manchester average of 32%.

Helen discussed the national context, emphasizing the voluntary sector's widely recognized contribution to health and well-being. The sector's deep-rooted presence in communities allows it to address complex needs and social determinants such as poverty. She shared an example of a visit to Trust House, where the multifaceted support provided includes food banks, housing, and welfare benefits, highlighting the sector's comprehensive approach to community support.

Helen provided several examples of local organisations to illustrate the diversity and impact of the voluntary sector in Bury:

• One Step Bury: This organisation collaborates with statutory services to provide support through physical activity, leading to positive outcomes for individuals.
• Speakeasy: Specialising in support for individuals with speech impairments, Speakeasy offers specialist speech and language therapy, enhancing confidence and assertiveness.
• Radcliffe Food Club: This organisation has developed a sustainable food provision model, moving away from traditional food banks and creating a community hub for various services.
• Margaret Haes Riding Centre: Offering programmes for children and adults with physical and learning disabilities, this centre provides free services to young people after assessment.
• Jigsaw:A member led organisation that promotes fun, freedom and independence for disabled people in Bury.
• Bury Relics: Provide both community and competitive walking football for people from the Bury area

Helen discussed several enablers and opportunities for the voluntary sector:

• Team Bury: A strategic enabler focusing on local elements and community strengths.
• Memorandum of Understanding (MOU): A formal agreement with public sector partners to enhance collaboration and align strategies.
• Investment Approach: Creating investment opportunities aligned with strategic outcomes, including leveraging social value from large contracts.
• GM Level Event: Highlighting the role of the voluntary sector in bringing power closer to communities and improving collaboration with statutory services.

Helen emphasized the importance of collaboration between the voluntary and public sectors to improve health and well-being. She recognized the voluntary sector's critical role in addressing social determinants and complex community needs, underscoring the sector's value in creating healthier, more resilient communities.

It Was Agreed:

·         The update be noted

·         Helen be thanked for her continued hard work