Strategic Partner Programme Consultation

Overview

Background to the Strategic Partner Programme

The Strategic Partner Programme began in April 2009, with the aim of investing in a small number of third sector partners. These partners work collaboratively with Sutton Council to develop capability and capacity in the third sector. The funding provided contributes to the organisations' core costs and is not intended for investment in specific projects.

Current strategic partners are:

• Sutton Centre for the Voluntary Sector (SCVS)
• Volunteer Centre Sutton
• Sutton Citizens Advice Bureau
• Sutton Racial Equality Council
• Refugee and Migrant Network Sutton
• Sutton Carers
• Age UK
• Eco Local

Why your views matter

The Future of the Programme

The Strategic Partner three year Programme ends on 31 March, 2011. Sutton Council is committed to continuing the Programme and strongly values the support, guidance and challenge offered by current Strategic Partners. Sutton Council will commence a new funding process this year, for funding to be awarded from 1 April 2012 running to 31 March 2015.

Applying to be a Strategic Partner

Following consultation with current Strategic Partners and the wider community and voluntary sector, applications for the next round of Strategic Partners will open on Monday 21 November and close on Monday 19 December. Applicants will be notified on Friday 6 January as to whether or not they have been successful. All information will be advertised on the Sutton Council website http://www.sutton.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=6463 and distributed to local community and voluntary networks.

Consultation

Sutton Council would like to know what you think about the Programme so far and any suggestions you have for recruiting the next round of Strategic Partners. To have your say, please complete the questionnaire below by noon on Monday 14 November.

We are also hosting an event, on Tuesday 15 November between 10am and 12pm at the Civic Offices for current Strategic Partners and other organisations interested in contributing to discussions about objectives for the new Programme. If you would like to attend, please leave your details at the end of the questionnaire or email: catherine.poyner@sutton.gov.uk.

What happens next

The results will be shared at the event on Tuesday 15 November and published on Sutton’s website http://www.sutton.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=6463 within two weeks of the consultation closing date.