west of england consortium

In 2007 the consortium undertook a review and identified poor strategic engagement with key stakeholders and a limited local profile due to geographical spread as priority areas for improvement. As such it supports the existing Bath and North East Somerset VCS Forum and has established VCS Forums and Steering Groups in North Somerset and South Gloucestershire. This provides a platform for groups to come together to address key issues, puts a more formal structure around VCS representation and the steering groups act as a main focus for feeding into the local LSP, LAA, Compact etc.

The consortium has also committed to undertaking any necessary mapping or research that is required to increase knowledge on local representation or provide other relevant information to enhance the operation of the forums and steering groups.

A higher level strategic partnership has also been formed to cover the whole of the West of England Partnership area, including West of England Consortium, Bristol Consortium, GOSW locality managers and Local Authority officers. The partnership brings together key stakeholders from both the voluntary sector and public sector to share a common understanding of the existing stage of development of VCS involvement in LSPs and discuss a shared approach to developing this for everyone benefit.

The consortium strives to be a Hub of Infrastructure Expertise (see diagram), with partners committed to sharing experiences and good practice.