VCS response to regional strategy

A more prosperous North West can be achieved by the contribution of a properly supported third sector according to the sector’s response to a consultation on the Regional Strategy.
Co-ordinated by Voluntary Sector North West (VSNW), the responses recognised that the sector also has a role in shaping the Strategy (RS2010) and the services that will eventually deliver its objectives. Other key areas highlighted throughout the consultation were that:
• Volunteering is not recognised sufficiently for the way it contributes across many issues from skills to health and wellbeing. There was a strong feeling that it warranted a significant place in the Strategy in its own right.
• Behaviour change is insignificantly addressed as a key river in reducing carbon emissions and reducing transport problems.
• Housing issues need addressing on many levels, but affordable housing, designed to support sustainable communities was a common thread and particularly pushed within the discussions in rural areas.
“The North West Development Agency and its partners have shown a willingness to listen and value the input of the sector in the process related to RS2010 and we hope this engagement continues,” says VSNW. But it adds: “It is only by listening, valuing and investing in the third sector that the region will be truly able to capitalise on the contribution our thriving third sector can make.”