Andy Burnham has signed a formal Accord with the 16,000 voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations in Greater Manchester, fulfilling a commitment made earlier this year.
The signing took place at the GMCVO Annual General Meeting on 7th November 2017, and will be formally approved by the Combined Authority later this month.
The event was attended by 100 VCSE organisations who were keen to add their signatures to the historic document on behalf of the sector. Afterwards delegates enjoyed a lively Q and A session with the Mayor.
The Accord sets out the framework for a new relationship between the Mayor of Greater Manchester, the Combined Authority and the VCSE sector. It includes building and sustaining the VCSE sector’s strategic capacity to deliver the shared vision as set out in the Greater Manchester Strategy, supporting the priorities that will help make Greater Manchester one of the best places in the world to grow up, get on and grow old.
Andy Burnham said: “I am proud to be signing a formal Accord with the Combined Authority and the VCSE sector. We share a vision for the city-region and this will only be achieved through new ways of working, with VCSE groups treated as equal partners with the public and private sectors. This is essential if we are to truly unlock the full potential of our citizens and communities.”
“I am happy to announce Cllr Kieran Quinn, Leader of Tameside Council, will now take a lead for Greater Manchester on the VCSE sector and Cooperatives, championing the sector and ensuring it has a place at the top table.”
Patsy Hodson, Chair of GMCVO said: “Signing this Accord is a huge milestone for our sector. I am not naïve about the complexities of this transition but I do believe that in Greater Manchester we have the relationships, courage and opportunity to act as equal partners with the public and business sectors.”
GMCVO member organisations welcomed the opportunity to witness the signing, and said:
“A historic day which has been long overdue for grass root community organisations and a huge step in the right direction for all involved in making communities successful.” Mohammed Ali, Centre Manager, Communities for All Ltd
“We welcome the Accord as we want to see a strong voluntary sector in Greater Manchester. That means we can collaborate for more resources for all rather than compete against each other for the crumbs of a dwindling welfare state.” John Nicholson, Chair, Greater Manchester Law Centre
“GreaterSport firmly believes that everyone has a role to play in reducing inequalities and helping to realise the collective ambitions for Greater Manchester. The VCSE sector has always and will always be pivotal in developing a more active region.” Matt Johnson, Deputy CEO, GreaterSport
“We believe the Accord is a pathway for inclusive growth for all.” Jen Gillies Pemberton, CEO, Founder Antz
“We are pleased to support this ambitious new agreement. As a charity we are passionate about supporting people with disabilities to achieve their full potential and to be equally valued. The Accord confirms the drive for the GM VCSE sector to work in partnership to create powerful change across Greater Manchester. Together we can make this community a great place to live, learn and work for everyone.” Jemma Shaw, Head of Community Partnerships, Leonard Cheshire Disability
Submitted by viki lee on Wed, 08/11/2017 – 16:42
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