View the Council's Third Sector Strategy document - [PDF]

The action plan details actions to be delivered over the next two years to improve:

• communication between the Council and the sector
• understanding between the Council and the sector
• the infrastructure and capacity of the sector and the council
• Procurement, Commissioning and funding

In Darlington it has been recognised for some time that the third sector has a vital role to play. The third sector contributes significantly to the delivery of Darlington's Community Strategy and receives over five million pounds in support from the Borough Council each year. A Local Compact with the third sector has been implemented to provide the framework for partnership working.

Over recent years the role of the third sector in the delivery of high quality public services has grown substantially and there is now the potential to do much more. This strategy, and accompanying action plan provides a framework for closer working between the Council and the third sector, ensuring that the knowledge, independence and expertise of the third sector is valued for the benefit of the whole community.

The Council has now appointed the Carers Federation as the host for LINk (Local Involvement Network) which will give communities an opportunity to influence health and social care services. Visit our LINk web pages to find out more.

EVOLution are the infrastructure organisation to support the Third Sector in Darlington and they currently offer a range of services. These services include:

• Information services through newsletters, e-bulletins and website facilities.
• Accredited and unaccredited training to meet the needs of individuals, community groups and organisations.
• Funding advice, information and support.
• Volunteering development, including the recruitment of volunteers.
• Direct services such as photocopying, room hire and equipment loan.
• Networking.

To find out more please visit our link to the Evolution webpage.

Compact and Funding

Darlington Borough Council and EVOLution (CVS) hosted a joint event on 24th November to involve the sector in the development of a revised Compact which over 40 people attended. The event looked at the regional context and at an example of best practice from Hartlepool. This provided the springboard for round table discussions on what the Compact should look like in Darlington and how it should operate to support the development of a strong Third Sector.

Work to develop the Compact is being lead by the Executive Director at EVOLution and notes from the event will be distributed to the Sector to encourage debate on what the future Compact should do.  If you or your organisation would like further details about the Compact Review please contact Karen Grundy on 01325 266888.

The afternoon discussion on 24th November discussed the funding of the sector by Darlington Borough Council.  A presentation was given to inform the group of the current funding and discussion then took place about future funding support given within the financial constraints that we all face. The session included looking at both grants and commissioning and how to ensure the sector is supported in a way that builds capacity and meets the needs of local people. Notes from the audience will be typed up by EVOLution and distributed with the Compact Review notes.

Work will be ongoing in the new year to look at what changes should be made. Discussion will take place within the sector and also within the Council prior to criteria and processes being agreed. If you would like to input into this review please contact the Voluntary and Community Sector Liaison Manager at Darlington Borough Council on 01325 388676.

Become a Digital Champion

We are promoting this exciting regional initiative amongst the Community Partnerships and voluntary groups in Darlington. It's an opportunity to gain an amazing qualification and be supported through the process of becoming a Digital Champion for your community group! If we can generate sufficient interest we may see the training take place here in Darlington in the autumn, so please read the press release  [PDF Document] to find out more and to register your interest.