Reset & Build Programme
Reset & Build was developed to rethink and strengthen the relationship between the public sector and the Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector across Central Lancashire. The programme recognised the vital contribution VCSE organisations make to health and care, particularly in supporting communities experiencing inequality, disadvantage and barriers to accessing services.
​
Phase One brought together 35 people representing 22 VCSE organisations to explore how partnership working could be improved. Through four dedicated workstreams, participants examined commissioning and investment, VCSE support and development, volunteering, and workforce development.
Key Findings
Partnership needs to be more equal
The research highlighted a strong need to move beyond simply involving the VCSE sector towards genuine partnership, shared decision-making and greater trust between organisations.
Fairer access to funding
VCSE organisations called for more transparent commissioning and grant-making, better access to opportunities and greater recognition of the social value they bring to communities.
Stronger support for VCSE organisations
The findings identified a need for better infrastructure, leadership development, mentoring and practical support to help organisations become more sustainable and resilient.
Better opportunities for volunteers
Participants highlighted the importance of making volunteering more accessible, better connected and properly supported, while demonstrating the value volunteering brings to communities and the wider health and care system.
A stronger, more inclusive workforce
The report identified opportunities to promote careers within the VCSE sector, improve workforce inclusivity, share resources, and support the wellbeing and retention of staff.
Listen to communities that are often overlooked
Feedback highlighted that smaller BAME-led organisations can be excluded from commissioning and funding conversations. The findings called for greater investment in their leadership, development and ability to influence decisions.
Reset & Build Phase One demonstrated that there was both a need and an appetite for change. It brought VCSE and public sector partners together, identified key barriers to effective partnership working, and produced a practical set of recommendations focused on creating a stronger, fairer and more sustainable VCSE sector across Central Lancashire.