Compact scheme set for an upgrade

Proposals to strengthen the relationship between voluntary and
community organisations and the government have been
welcomed.

The government plans to introduce a simpler and stronger opt-in
Compact Plus scheme to reduce red tape and attempt to give the
voluntary sector the same status as public sector bodies.

Compact Plus will build on the work of the Compact, a set of
principles and undertakings introduced in 1998 to provide a
framework for relations between government departments and the
sector. It will be easier to implement than its predecessor, with a
stronger emphasis on secure funding arrangements.

Stuart Etherington, chief executive of the National Council for
Voluntary Organisations, said Compact Plus could make “an important
contribution to the continuing improvement of government and
voluntary sector relationships”.

The consultation document also proposes a sector-led agency,
Capacity Builders, to manage the ChangeUp fund, to improve
voluntary sector’s infrastructure.

• Consultation from www.active communities.homeoffice.gov.uk