Leadership Group releases midpoint evaluation report on Greater Manchester VCFSE Accord
We are pleased to share the midpoint evaluation report for the Greater Manchester VCFSE Accord, marking the first year and a half of the current delivery plan (2023 - 2026). This landmark report highlights the achievements since the Accord's signing in 2021 and evaluates progress towards its eight commitments, aiming to drive system change and enhance partnership working.
The evaluation examines the impact felt by partners across Greater Manchester, exploring successes and challenges in collaboration, and assessing the integrity of the Accord agreement. The report also considers the broader impact and direction of travel towards the Accord's vision and commitments. The report describes agreed commitments, outcomes, and long-term impacts, highlighting activities that enable the VCFSE sector to deliver positive outcomes for communities and citizens in Greater Manchester.
Key achievements include scaling up the VCFSE role in health and care delivery, building a pipeline of skills and employment support, investing in community ownership models, and embedding the VCFSE role in mental health support structures. The sector has also been pivotal in new public service delivery models, establishing the first Alternative Provider Collaborative in England, and supporting system-level access to equalities and lived experience voices through the GM Equalities Network.
The report underscores significant progress towards the Accord commitments, with increased understanding of the VCFSE sector and successful partnerships across Greater Manchester. Public sector partners have welcomed the VCFSE sector, recognising its role in service delivery and community connection. The programme has formalised structures and support, enhancing the sector's capacity to share good practices and connect more effectively.
Overall, the Accord has raised the VCFSE sector's profile with public sector leaders, facilitating its inclusion in strategic discussions and co-design. Trust and positive relationships have been fostered, creating safe spaces for open dialogue and collaboration, ultimately improving outcomes for Greater Manchester communities and citizens.
Recommendations for the next phase include investing in the sector despite funding challenges, strengthening district-level engagement, enhancing communication and awareness, sustaining and building on relationships, addressing national-level challenges, and championing the sector's role in prevention and growth. The evaluation highlights the need for continued advocacy for the VCFSE sector in the national political context and emphasises the importance of strategic investment.
