The overall aim of Darlington's Third Sector Strategy is: "placing a vibrant challenging third sector high on the Council’s agenda in shaping a better quality of life for Darlington Residents"
Council's Third Sector Strategy [pdf document]
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.
eVOLution
eVOLution are the infrastructure organisation to support the Third Sector in Darlington (previously known as Darlington CVS) 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 visit the eVOLution website [external link]
Darlington Compact
Darlington Compact is a statement of partnership between the public sector and the voluntary and community sector. It is a commitment to work together more closely, and to respect each other's rights and responsibilities.
Darlington Compact [pdf document, 4mb]
Codes of Practice [pdf document, 3.9mb]
Third Sector Commissioning
In Darlington we are keen to ensure that third sector organisations have the opportunity to be considered for contracted work based upon the operation of an ‘even playing field’. In order to support this work we offer training and support to organisations so that they understand the processes and how to find out more about working with the Council.
If you require further help, training or support please do not hesitate to contact Mary Hall who is the Voluntary and Community Sector Liaison Manager at the Council on:
Mary.hall@darlington.gov.uk or by telephone on 01325 388676.
North East Purchasing Organisation Opportunities Portal (NEPO)
All North East Councils advertise their tenders on the following site and to receive E-mail alerts about these. You will need to register on the site
If you have any problems please let us know.
North East Purchasing Organisation Opportunities Portal [external site]