Voluntary Action Rotherham

 What is the Compact?

The Rotherham Compact was launched in October 2003 as a statement of partnership between the Voluntary, Community, Statutory and Private sector partners represented in Rotherham’s Local Strategic Partnership (LSP). Based on the recognition that all partners share many complementary functions and values, it aims to provide a framework for enhancing the relationship between partners that will lead to better co-ordinated services and improved quality of life for the people of Rotherham. This was followed by the Compact Partners signing off the 5 codes of good practice which underpin the Compact in April 2006.

• A healthy voluntary and community sector is an essential part of a democratic society.
• Working in partnership with the voluntary and community sector can result in better policy and services and better outcomes for the community.
• Effective partnership requires strong relationships built on integrity and openness.
• Government has an important role to play as a funder of the voluntary and community sector.
• The independence of the voluntary and community sector should be respected.

The public sector undertake to:

• Promote the Compact across their organisation and with partners
• Respect the independence of the voluntary and community sector
• Consult early enough to make a difference
• Recognise the cost of doing business when funding public service delivery

In return, the voluntary and community sector undertakes to:

• Promote the Compact across the sector
• Operate through open and accountable organisations
• Involve all stakeholders and embrace diversity
• Contribute constructively to public policy

The 5 Compact Codes of Good Practice

• Black and minority ethnic groups
• Community groups
• Community Involvement, Consultation & Policy Appraisal
• Funding & Procurement
• Volunteering

How can the Compact help Voluntary and Community Organisations?

Through proper implementation and compliance on the part of everyone involved, the Compact has the potential to provide a range of benefits for the voluntary and community sector:

• There will be an improvement in the way voluntary and community organisations are consulted and involved
• There is a commitment to the provision of quality services
• There will be better public recognition of the value voluntary and community organisations make to society
• There will be a clearer role and a stronger voice for voluntary and community organisations in shaping policy and strategy
• It will help to develop a more sustainable Voluntary and Community sector through a deeper understanding of each sectors needs and constraints.

How can the Compact influence the Public Sector?

• Demonstrates commitment to partnership working in comprehensive performance assessment and other external audits and inspections and boosting the prospects of external funders investing in the area.
• By drawing on the expertise of the Voluntary and Community Sector, public bodies can improve relationships and as a result make better informed decisions and policies based on real local need. This in turn leads to better services that are geared to meet the needs of the locality.

As of December 2007 Compact members are;