One of our key functions as a CVS is to bring the local voluntary sector together and provide opportunities for networking. The focus of our current work is establishing the West Lancs Community Network.

We recognise that building relationships and more collaborative working can deliver greater opportunities. We want to work with the sector to strengthen, unify and secure an improved level of resources.

Over the last few months, we’ve been consulting over what form local networking should take in this current environment.  The emerging structure is outlined below:

1. In person local networking opportunities to be established in each of the following locations:

• Skelmersdale and surrounding area#
• Ormskirk & Aughton and surrounding area
• Burscough and surrounding area
• Tarleton and surrounding area

The purpose of these local network meetings would be to provide mutual support, opportunities for sharing information and collaborative working, and to help develop local solutions to areas of identified need.

2. A number of Borough wide shared interest groups to be established on a range of local issues (such as community, environment, housing, health & wellbeing) to provide a focus for groups in those areas of work.

The aim of these groups is to be mutually supportive, and to

• strengthen knowledge
• increase access to intelligence
• work collaboratively to develop innovative solutions
• influence decision makers
• increase the level of resources brought into West Lancashire to meet areas of identified need

3. An annual West Lancs voluntary sector conference will feature the work of the shared interest groups and local networks above, showcase the work being done, celebrate the successes of the sector, cover topical issues and provide networking opportunities.