At the VCSA AGM, we launched the first public draft of the Shropshire Accord. The Shropshire Accord is a voluntary agreement aimed at fostering collaboration between local public sector bodies and Voluntary and Community, Social Enterprise(VCS) groups and organizations in Shropshire. This voluntary agreement sets out shared values, principles, and commitments to better serve local people and communities. The launch marks the beginning of a wider engagement process, we want you to tell us how to make it a document that works for you!
The Accord is more than just a document; it establishes a way of working that acknowledges the necessity of equitable partnerships. All parties and stakeholders start on equal footing, recognizing that fairness and inclusivity are vital for successful collaboration in commissioning and service delivery for the benefit of local communities.
The Shropshire Accord includes statements of commitment and agreed behaviours, ensuring clear processes and closer working relationships. It integrates the principles of social value into policies and commissioning, making the best use of public money to deliver quality services for local people. The Accord addresses themes such as independence, working with volunteers, equality and diversity, impact and social value, information sharing, emerging needs, place-based working, community buildings and assets, and system working.
The development of the Shropshire Accord has been a collaborative effort, co-created by Shropshire Council and the VCSA. It is now out for consultation from the wider voluntary sector and other public sector bodies. This collaborative approach ensures that the Accord is a useful tool for establishing clear processes and closer working relationships, reflecting the evolving nature of working relationships and the national and local situation. We want this to be a functional document!
Please have a read of the draft and fill out the survey, or arrange to have a meeting with us to discuss in more detail if you would prefer. Contact vcsassmbly@shropshire.gov.uk