The Social Care Experts Blog: Voluntary organisations Archives

The Samaritans represent the true spirit of the voluntary sector

By Simeon Brody on September 28, 2009 2:04 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

by Peter Beresford

Some of the big third sector organisations in our field have made it difficult to be sure what the unique contribution of voluntary organisations is any longer. Much of their money comes from the state, putting a dampener on their preparedness to bite the hand that feeds them.

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We need more experts by experience

By Adam McCulloch on August 28, 2009 12:34 PM | 1 Comment | No TrackBacks

by Kaarina Elisabeth

Harriet Harman believes that unless women are guaranteed positions in government, we won't get good government. She advocates positive discrimination, already employed for race and gender by various bodies. And it can be a good thing. It makes groups feel their views are represented.

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Children with disabilities deserve better public facilities

By Adam McCulloch on June 24, 2009 2:28 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

by Julie Marriott

Imagine a public toilet floor - filthy and grimy from use. Now imagine having to put your vulnerable and most precious gift on that toilet floor - your child. I have to do this on a regular basis with my 11 year old son Toby, who has profound and multiple learning disabilities and Pitt Hopkins Syndrome and is doubly incontinent.

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Have charities lost their values as contract culture takes over?

By Adam McCulloch on June 24, 2009 1:01 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

by Richard Garside

It is easy to see the main challenge facing the voluntary sector largely as one of adaptation to the contract culture. "The reform of public sector provision will require charities to be more business-minded than ever," the chief executive of the Association of Chief Executives of Voluntary Organisations, Stephen Bubb, has said. But what are the nature of the changes that voluntary sector organisations are being asked to embrace? What are the consequences for their identity and values, mission and independence, as well as for their beneficiaries?

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Don't underestimate volunteers

By Adam McCulloch on November 25, 2008 12:54 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

by Linda Graff

Despite the important role of volunteers, they are sorely undervalued and volunteerism is largely taken for granted. That's why, somewhat tongue in cheek, I suggest that a widespread strike of volunteer workers may be the best way to demonstrate just how essential they are.

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