With the Isle of Man government facing a loss of income as a result of changes to the VAT revenue sharing agreement with the United Kingdom, the economic and social force that is the third sector is a key element in safeguarding the wellbeing of vulnerable members of the community.
Against this background, the Council for Voluntary Organisations (CVO) is working with government to identify how best the third sector can contribute to the Island’s economic recovery, help deliver services and represent those who need special care and support.
This collaborative approach was strengthened following a meeting between CVO representatives, DHSS Minister Eddie Teare MHK and Director of Social Services Andrew Swithinbank in December 2009.
As a result of the meeting, a working group was set up to look at developing a strategy that would ensure the needier and marginalised members of society were protected given the current economic constraints, and at how the third sector might alleviate some measure of financial burden from government in respect of its service delivery obligations.
CVO information officer David Gawne MBE said, "The third sector has the power to be part of the solution to the economic challenges faced by Government.
"Collectively, we are flexible, we have a breadth and depth of experience spread over some 600 voluntary and community groups and we are able to make swift decisions.
"In partnership with government we’re now looking at how, by working together, we can create greater efficiencies and cost savings through a whole raft of initiatives, pooling resources for example, from vehicles and premises right down to stationery if need be.
"The working group will be looking at how, through collaboration, the third sector and government can continue to deliver services without compromising on quality.
"In short, we’re looking afresh at every aspect of our operation. To this end, we have arranged two working party consultation sessions at Keyll Darree lecture theatre, Noble’s Hospital, titled 'Together we can achieve' on 28th April, the first from 10.30am to 12.00noon; the second from 6pm to 7.30pm.
"These sessions will explore how through collaborative working we can provide a more cohesive and proactive method of delivery of services to assure the quality of life of the more vulnerable members of our community."
CVO chairman and chief executive of Age Concern Isle of Man Penny Creighton MBE (pictured) said, "The title 'Together We Can Achieve' not only defines the new collective sprit and vision of the third sector and government working in partnership but it also recognises the vital contribution the third sector has to make to the physical and social wellbeing of the people of the Isle of Man.
"We may be faced with economic challenges on an unprecedented scale, but we are also presented with a genuine opportunity for change which, together, I have every confidence we can achieve."
Mr Gawne said that they had been impressed by the way in which government had responded to and were working with the CVO in seeking solutions to the current situation and the working party had already made significant progress.
He added that everyone involved in any voluntary, community or faith group was urged to attend what would be a very important meeting for the sector and an opportunity to make a real difference.
For further information or to book a place on either workshop, please call 461247 or e mail cvo1@manx.net.
