CABINET OFFICE News
Release (CAB/111/08) issued by COI News Distribution Service. 25
November 2008
Today, the
Government is announcing £1.5 million to support third sector
regional networks in delivering many of the Government's
policies and programmes at the regional level. The Office of the
Third Sector will provide £1million over two years, whilst
Capacitybuilders has identified a further £500,000 for 2009-10.
Regional networks help ensure that the voice of local third
sector organisations shapes regional policy and strategy, and
provide a channel of communication between regional bodies and
frontline community groups. The Black and Minority Ethnic (BME)
networks have a particular role in ensuring their
communities' voices are heard, tackling discrimination and
building strong relationships between communities.
Kevin Brennan, Minister for the Third Sector said,
"I am delighted to announce this continued support by the
Government for regional networks, this is in recognition of the
important role third sector organisations play in delivering and
also influencing Government policy. It is vital during a time of
economic uncertainty that we continue to support and develop third
sector organisations. Today's announcement is a great example
of how committed the Government is to supporting the sector."
Since 1999, the Government has supported third sector networks in
each region. Currently funding is delivered through the Regional
Infrastructure Programme, established in 2005 for three years.
From April 2009 Capacitybuilders will be delivering the fund. Over
the coming months they will work with the networks and other
stakeholders to shape the investment for the next year.
Channelling the new funding through Capacitybuilders will
streamline funding distributed to third sector support providers.
Capacitybuilders has an existing relationship with many of the
networks and a strong understanding of the environment in which
they work. Capacitybuilders will issue a further announcement
later this financial year to update on progress.
ENDS
Notes to editors:
The Office of the Third Sector is part of the Cabinet Office that
deals with Government policy on charities, voluntary organisations
and social enterprise. More information can be found at http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/third_sector
For further details contact: Cabinet Office Press Office 22
Whitehall LONDON SW1A 2WH Tel: 020 7276 0436
http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk