This is an exciting time for the voluntary sector with new opportunities on the horizon. In their latest ‘Strategic Plan’ the States have expressed a clear intent to work in closer partnership with what they call the ‘Third Sector’. A Third Sector Steering Group has been set up which includes representative from States departments, the Association of Guernsey Charities and the Guernsey Community Foundation.
In February, the Association of Guernsey Charities organised a forum entitled ‘Working with the States’. The purpose of the forum was to start the process of a more effective partnership between the States and the voluntary sector, exploring ways to achieve better communication and identifying where the service gaps and needs are.
The forum was well attended by a variety of charities, deputies and civil servants. It was the first of its kind and the start of a consultation process.
If you represent a charity and have an idea that involves working more closely with the States, you are encouraged to make contact with the relevant civil servant.  If you don’t know who that is, then speak to the Chief Officer of that department.