New government guidance to protect VCS groups

The government has now published Best Value Guidance on how local authorities should negotiate with voluntary and community sector groups when considering cutting their funding read the Best Value Statutory Guidance here.

The main impact of this guidance is that local authorities will have more choice over how and when they engage with and consult voluntary groups. It is not statutory, but it can help funders ensure continuity of service and value for money.

What is Voluntary Action LeicesterShire doing?

Voluntary Action LeicesterShire will be liaising with local authorities to establish how their practice will change as a result of this guidance. We will be asking local authorities:

1. How do you plan to implement this guidance? What practical steps are you taking?
2. What criteria you will be using when assessing 'best value'?
3. How should VCS groups show the benefit of their services to best assist the commissioning process?
4. How are you likely to assess social value? What type of information will be included in this assessment?
5. How can the sector see evidence that their services are not being disproportionately affected by cuts or restructuring? Where will this information be shown?
6. What action will you take where groups believe that the guidance is not being followed?

Have your views heard by local authorities

Please let us know:

• What information would you like to see from funders?
• What are the implications of Best Value Guidance for your organisation?

Send your responses to Nick Mills
Email: nick.m@valonline.org.uk
Telephone: 0116 2575033