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The Tameside Compact/Cross Sector Policy Group

Nationally, the Compact was established in 1998 as an agreement between Government and the voluntary and community sector in England. It recognises shared values, principles and commitments and sets out guidelines for how both parties should work together. The Tameside Compact Group was set up in 2002, following the successful launch of the local Compact in April 2002. Its function was to oversee the implementation of the Compact, and to further develop the Codes of Practice, as set out in the national documents. The name of the group was later revised to that currently used, the Cross Sector Policy Group in recognition of a change in focus from concentration on process issues, to dealing with implementation and practice.

The group aims to bring about an effective working relationship between the third sector (voluntary, community and faith groups) and other sectors and partners to the benefit of Tameside communities.

Membership of the group includes senior officers from a number of strategic partners (TMBC, NHS Tameside and Glossop, Fire Service and GMP) and representatives from Tameside third sector organisations. It is co-chaired by the TMBC Cabinet Deputy for Personal and Community Services (Cllr Brenda Warrington) and the Director of Tameside 3rd Sector Coalition (Tony Okotie).

The groups aim, to bring about an effective working relationship between the third sector and other sectors, will be achieved by:

• Building the capacity of third sector organisations (TSOs - voluntary and community organisations) and of the sector as a whole.
• Working together on strategic/policy issues related to the third sector.
• Working together towards the achievement of the Tameside Community Strategy.
• Promoting sharing of skills and knowledge, and joint learning opportunities.

The group has a developed an action plan, endorsed by Tameside Strategic Partnership, with five high level objectives designed to create ‘an environment for a thriving third sector’. Engagement with, and Involvement of, the third sector in local partnerships and decision making. Funding and commissioning. Supporting volunteering. Helping to build the capacity of third sector organizations. Promoting and embedding the Compact.

The Compact, action plan and 2009 report to TSP – can be found here. For more information about the Compact and Cross Sector Policy group, contact Tony Okotie.