The Compact
The Compact is an agreement between the Government and the voluntary sector in England, first made in November 1998, which aims to improve the working relationship between the two sectors for mutual advantage. The Compact was refreshed in December 2009 and subsequently renewed in 2010.
The Compact is accompanied with an Accountability and Transparency Guide which outlines steps to take at national and local level, including dispute resolution, internal complaints procedures and ombudsmen functions.
Accountability and Transparency Guide>>
What difference can the Compact make?
If implemented, the Compact can improve the overall working relationship between partners. Compact aims to improve funding processes, consultation with the voluntary sector and gives enforceable rights. The Compact also seeks to maintain the independence of the sector, protecting its right within the law to campaign and challenge Government policy and the right to manage its own affairs without undue interference.
Compact working in the North East
All 12 councils in the region have a Local Compact which seeks to improve the relationship with the sector and other local public bodies.
Across the North East, voluntary and community organisations use the Compact as a starting point when building partnerships and to help improve funding relationships. There are examples of good practice - Gateshead Council has been recognised nationally for its approach working with Gateshead Voluntary Organisations' Council (GVOC) when making decisions on funding cuts to the sector. Many organisations have found that quoting from the Compact can be a very helpful way of tackling bad practice.
Where can I find out more about the Compact?
You can read the VONNE Briefing for background to the Compact, together with a summary of recent changes
There are two main organisations which provide support to the sector on the Compact:
1) Compact Voice
Compact Voice supports the voluntary sector, at national and local level, to take forward the Compact and gives a voice to the sector's views to national government, local government and other stakeholders. They provide training and advice to the sector on using the Compact, and represent its interests to national government. Compact Voice provides a free online network, events and guides, a speaker service and more.
Visit their website to find practical help to get the most out of Compact working in your area.
2) Compact Advocacy
Compact Advocacy: supports voluntary organisations in dealings with any public body at a national or local level, particularly in the early stages of a potential dispute. Their role is to help mediate and support better outcomes for voluntary and community groups in their dealings with public bodies. If an organisation thinks a public body has made a decision that is not in line with the Compact they can help.
Tell Us Your Experience
VONNE is interested to hear about your successes and challenges in building and maintaining relationships with public bodies. Similarly, if you would like to discuss opportunties to network with other organisations to explore Compact issues, please contact Jo Curry, Chief Executive at VONNE.
