The Way Forward - Proposals to maintain the effectiveness of Manchester's VCSE Sector

The Way Forward - a set of proposals to maintain the effectiveness of Manchester's Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise Sector was launched at Manchester's Voluntary Sector Assembly on 10th December by Fergal McCullough, Chief Executive of The Men's Room.

Participants welcomed the proposals, made a number of suggestions for improvement, and stated which of the proposals were the highest prioritiy and how they may be able to help. If you wish to get involved then please contact [email protected].

The main proposals are:

1. Maximising Inward Investment

• We propose that the VCSE sector negotiate with the major national grant-giving organisations on ways to create a more equitable distribution of their funds.
• We propose that the VCSE sector work with statutory and private organisations to increase the number and size of grant-giving organisations that give primarily to Manchester causes.
• We propose that the VCSE sector develop a collective campaign to encourage local people to donate to Manchester causes.
• We propose that the VCSE sector increase the number of effective, mutually beneficial relationships we have with large private sector companies.

2. Increasing Employment

• We propose that the VCSE sector recognise and enhance our vital contribution to the employment of people in Manchester and enhance our ability to act as a route to employment

3. Increasing Our Impact in Areas of Low VCSE Activity.

•  We propose that the VCSE sector target our expertise and resources to increase VCSE activity within selected areas of Manchester.

4. Increasing Mutual Support

• We propose that the VCSE sector develop the means to increase the quantity and quality of mutual support within our sector.

5. Connecting Manchester People to the VCSE Sector

• We propose that the VCSE sector work with the vibrant and expert digital media sector in Manchester to improve the way we use social media.

6. Working across GM

• We propose that VCSE organisations from across Greater Manchester collaborate to develop a shared “Way Forward”.