Minister Launches New Partnership Agreement Between Government and Voluntary and Community Sector
Date published:
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has welcomed the new Partnership Agreement between the Northern Ireland Executive and the Voluntary and Community Sector, which marks a significant step forward in strengthening collaboration, trust, and shared purpose across both sectors.
The Partnership Agreement is designed to underpin and strengthen the long-standing relationship between Executive departments and the diverse voluntary and community sector in Northern Ireland. It recognises the vital role the voluntary and community sector plays in delivering services, supporting people and communities, particularly in times of social and economic challenge.
Minister Lyons said,
“I am pleased to announce the launch of a new Partnership Agreement between Government and the Voluntary and Community Sector in Northern Ireland, with the full endorsement of the NI Executive. This Agreement sets the tone for a renewed and productive relationship, one that is rooted in mutual trust, shared values and collaborative working. It reflects our collective commitment to delivering better outcomes for communities across Northern Ireland.”
The Partnership Agreement has been developed by the Joint Forum between Government and the Voluntary and Community Sector. It is ambitious and forward-looking to reflect the contemporary challenges faced by both sectors. The Agreement also highlights the importance of mutual trust and respect, accountability, and collaborative working to ensure the best use of public money and to maximise impact.
The Partnership Agreement also embeds a set of Fair Funding principles to guide future funding relationships and build good practice between both sectors.
Karen Smith, Joint Chair of the Joint Forum between Government and the VCS, said,
“Joint Forum Voluntary and Community Sector members are delighted to see the launch of the Partnership Agreement, Fair Funding Principles and Ways of Working today. With full NI Executive endorsement, the shared ambitions in this document will be brought to life in the coming months and years to build inclusive public services for everyone.”
The Minister made the announcement in a Written Statement to the Assembly.
Notes to editors:
- Photo caption : Minister Lyons is pictured with Celine McStravick, CEO NICVA and Avery Bowser, Joint Forum VCS Panel member
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