Research conducted on behalf of NAVCA's Improving Local
Partnerships Unit and the Workforce Hub has revealed that there are
very few training and learning opportunities that directly address
the competencies for VCS strategic representation.
Skilling up for LSPs -
Research on leadership skills for effective strategic
representation shows that much of the training that does
exist focuses on community representation rather than strategic
representation for VCS representatives on strategic
partnerships.
The research establishes a common set of core competencies
for effective representation. The skills identified are
predominantly personal and professional, which are not adequately
covered by existing training and learning provision. The research
found that current training tends to focus local structures and
policy or the local political context and not on providing skills
needed to negotiate effectively on behalf of the VCS.
Kate Housden, NAVCA's Improving Local Partnerships
Manager, says "Local area agreements and Local Strategic
Partnerships (LSPs) offer real opportunities for the voluntary and
community sector to influence local public policy. But they
operate within a complex, highly political environment that many
VCS representatives undoubtedly find challenging. VCS
representatives are under increasing pressure to perform well
whilst facing many conflicting demands. Yet nationally there is
little support on offer and very few skills development
opportunities open to them. Everyone operating at a strategic level
needs a common skills set. This research sets out core competencies
and provides recommendations as to how the learning needs can be
addressed"
Mark Freeman from the Workforce Hub says: "This research helps to
highlight the growing need for learning opportunities that those
involved with not only LSP's but all other partnership work within
the sector need. It is essential that the sector work with training
providers to develop courses that will allow individuals to build
skills in all those areas
highlighted."