Voluntary sector representatives from across the region today had the opportunity to meet Ed Miliband, Minister for the Third Sector, to share their views on the future of this sector at an event held in Newcastle.
The Government has embarked on a major review of the role of the third sector. It will consider the long-term priorities, looking ahead to the challenges that will face our society over the next ten years and the role that the sector can play. The review will also address wider issues about the sector's role, including public service delivery, active citizenship and building cohesive communities.
Ed Miliband, Minister for the Third Sector, said;
'I am here in Newcastle to listen and learn from people working in the third sector and to make sure their hopes and concerns are considered. The review of the sector is a real opportunity to make sure it is properly supported by government to meet the challenges of the future.
'Our aim is a more just and cohesive society. The third sector has an essential role to play in helping bring that about. From social enterprise to promoting volunteering to the work of charities, the third sector is central to building a fairer society.'
This consultation will give the people working in this sector the opportunity to shape the review that will feed into the outcomes of the Spending Review 2007.
The review, lead by Ed Miliband, is being carried out jointly by the Cabinet Office and HM Treasury. It is overseen by a cross-departmental ministerial group and is guided by a third sector advisory panel, who will bring a direct third sector perspective to the strategic direction of policy.
Notes to Editors
The Cabinet Office, Office of the third sector was established in May 2006, to lead the Government's engagement with the third sector.
Further details on the review and consultation can be found at: http://www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/documents/public_spending_and_services/third_sector/pss_thirdsector_index.cfm
- 3. The series of visits are:
- 5th June South East (Guilford)
- 7th June South West (Taunton)
- 12th June North East (Newcastle)
- 19th June East of England (Cambridge)
- 26th June East Midlands (Nottingham)
- 3rd July Yorkshire and Humberside (Leeds)
- 19th July West Midlands (Birmingham)
- 26th July North West (Manchester)
- 18th September London
