Development developments!

No, this isn't a misprint! There are some changes on the horizon that may affect the way development services to voluntary and community groups are provided across Derbyshire.

Derby CVS is one of those voluntary groups often referred to as a local development agency, an umbrella body or a provider of infrastructure services.

Through its regional offices the Government is making nearly £100m available over the next two years to support improvements to the development work offered to voluntary and community groups.

In the East Midlands development agencies have been told that to stand a good chance of benefiting from this funding they should form a single consortium for each county. This consortium can then develop a strategy for the improvement of development services across the county.

Derbyshire is in the process of forming such a consortium. Its first jobs will include:

• establishing itself properly;
  
• creating a plan to establish its strategy;
  
• involving funders; and
  
• involving users of development services.

Derby CVS values this opportunity. We are however concerned that the consortium doesn't set up a county-wide organisation with new staff as this will detract from focusing on more local work.

( If your group offers development services to other voluntary and community groups and you'd like to join the Derbyshire Consortium or if you're a user or a funder of development services and have views about what the Derbyshire Infrastructure Strategy should achieve contact Mark Scothern at Derby CVS on 01332 346266 or email mscothern@cvsderby.co.uk

(from Network News, May/June 2004)