The Chair welcomed those present and attendees introduced themselves.

To receive any apologies for absence.

Apologies for absence were received from Councillors Gartside and Emsley, Naomi Burke (Healthwatch Rochdale), Tracie Powers (Vintage Worx), Emma Salloway (Neighbourhood Cohesion & Community Centres Engagement Officer, RBC) and Ghulam Shahzad (Rochdale Environmental Action Group).

To consider the minutes of the Voluntary Sector Partnership meeting held on Thursday 27 June 2024.

Resolved:
That the minutes of the Voluntary Sector Partnership meeting held on 27 June 2024 be approved as a correct record.

To discuss and amend as required the current terms of reference of the Voluntary Sector Partnership.

The current terms of reference for the Voluntary Sector Partnership (VSP) were submitted for members’ consideration.

The Head of Townships and Libraries gave a verbal presentation which outlined and welcomed feedback on the current terms of reference document. This included feedback on the purpose and objectives of VSP, membership and attendees, and practical issues such as the frequency and timings of meetings.

Members highlighted the importance of meetings remaining in person at various community-based venues, as well as meetings remaining relevant to current issues in relation to the voluntary, community, faith, and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector.

The importance of reporting of VSP meetings was also highlighted to avoid duplication of work and discussions at other community meetings, as well as sharing information to encourage wider involvement of local VCFSE sector organisations.

It was suggested by the Chair that the terms of reference be revised by members to agree whether they were still fit for purpose, whether the VSP was still working to the current terms of reference, and what amendments could be made to ensure that the Partnership worked effectively.

Resolved:
That members of the Voluntary Sector Partnership send comments or amendments in relation to the current terms of reference via email to the Head of Townships and Libraries by Friday 28 February 2025.

An introduction to the Head of Corporate Policy.

Members were introduced to the recently appointed Head of Corporate Policy at Rochdale Borough Council.

It was noted by the Head of Corporate Policy that Rochdale was a Co-operative council and therefore the importance of the council being co-operative with residents and the VCFSE sector was highlighted.

The Head of Corporate Policy would lead on the Co-operative agenda, develop key Council plans including the Corporate Plan, and lead on the implementation of strategies such as climate change and digital. It was noted that the Council climate strategy was currently being revised and that there were forums for residents and VCFSE organisations to voice their opinions such as at the Climate Co-Operators working group.

Members were informed that the Council was passionate to engage better by working with and sharing information with communities that could support and inform on policy issues and lead on strategy and policy development.

A Policy Digest newsletter which included items such as recent government reports and laws was produced every week and could be circulated to members of the Partnership if desired.

In relation to data and insight, Partnership members queried whether information could be shared to local VCFSE groups to help achieve grant funding and to ensure that certain demographics were being targeted. The Head of Corporate Policy informed that the council would undertake research and data analysis, and was working to improve access and use of intelligence.

The Director of Public Health and Communities informed that the council published an annual Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA) which provided borough wide information in relation to health and wellbeing needs and offered insight into neighbourhood profiles.

Resolved:

That the update be noted.

To discuss future presentations by voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector organisations.

In relation to future agenda items, it was suggested by the Chair that themes be agreed for future meetings of Voluntary Sector Partnership in order to compress items and for attendees to have expectations of what will be discussed.

The Chair noted that there was an open invitation for local community groups and VCFSE sector organisations to attend meetings and provide 10 to 15 minute presentations about their organisation and the work that they do.

Resolved:

1.    That Action Together be requested to provide an update at a future meeting of Voluntary Sector Partnership in relation to VCFSE sector funding;

2.    That a future meeting be themed around Public Health and that updates be provided by Council officers in relation to the Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (neighbourhood profiles), the Live Well model, and engagement and insight work;

3.    That a future meeting be held at RAFC Community Trust and be themed on Physical Health.