From April 2013 local Healthwatch replaced the Local Involvement Networks (LINks) as the "consumer voice" in health and social care. It is important that local Healthwatch learns from the experience of the LINks to ensure they become the best they can be, and to prevent "reinventing the wheel". The results of a project to capture this learning are now available
Voluntary Sector North West
St. Thomas Centre
4 October 2012
In the last two years, the Cabinet Office has undertaken a comprehensive review of the regulation that affects the sector. They are also investing more than £39 million in the infrastructure that exists to help civil society do more.
The paper focuses on opportunities to:
• Further improve regulation and strip out frustrating bureaucracy
• Improve the support that front line charities and social enterprises receive
• Develop the sector skills and leadership needed to manage new opportunities and risks
• Read further papers in the Civil Society update series here
To download 'Making it easier to set up and run a charity, social enterprise or voluntary organisation: Progress update' (PDF Format): Click Here
Regional Voices, of which VSNW is a partner, is pleased to announce that it has been awarded funding from the Department of Health (Innovation, Excellence and Strategic Development Fund) to support voluntary and community sector influence on health and wellbeing boards
The Department for Business Innovation & Skills has published the findings of a research study on European Social Fund delivery with the aim of informing thinking around the next round of programmes
Healthwatch England was formed in April 2013 and is the independent consumer champion for health and social care in England. They have now published a list of local Healthwatch, including those for the North West
The Local Government Chronicle held a webinar to explore the essential elements to ensure local healthwatch organisations are effective in scrutinising local health services and provide a voice for communities. Regional Voices, of which VSNW are a part, are mentioned.
An analysis has been published by NAVCA of the 74 areas that received Transforming Local Infrastructure and provides a national perspective, and allows the sharing of information and ideas
