Welsh Government’s Code of Practice for Funding the Third Sector is currently under review, but why is it being reviewed, what changes are being proposed, and how can the sector ensure its voice is heard?

The Code is an integral part of the Third Sector Scheme and it sets out principles that underpin Welsh Government funding for the voluntary sector and what Welsh Government expects from the sector in return. Its purpose is to ensure fair access to public funding both directly from Government and indirectly through funding provided via public bodies, such as local authorities and health boards to enable the sector to support communities in Wales.

So, isn’t it all already in place? Why does it need to be reviewed? There are a number of issues that have been identified and documented with the current code:

• As a 30 page document, it’s too long
• Published in 2014, it’s out of date
• It is not easy to find on the Welsh Government website
• There’s a lack of awareness in both public and voluntary sectors

Therefore, although a code of practice already exists, more can be done to make sure it’s working in practice.

HOW TO GET INOLVED

There have been a series of engagement events over the past few months but there’s still time to get involved and ensure your opinion is heard.

WCVA will be hosting a webinar on Wednesday 27 September 10.30 am – 12 pm which will give you an opportunity to find out more about the review, proposed changes and provide your opinion to help shape the next steps.

For further details about the event and how to book your place click here.

Our 2023 theme: Many voices. Working together. With purpose.

Charities make a huge and positive impact on society and are dedicated to an enormous variety of good causes. This year we celebrate the individual talents, viewpoints and experiences each trustee brings to their board and their collective decision making and how diversity can help make a charity stronger.

Tell us about your fantastic trustees and we’ll promote the stories as part of Trustee week and a big thank you to your Trustees making a difference in your community and charity.

For more information contact karen.vowles@vamt.net

The Outdoor partnership have teamed up with Pedal Power to offer a fun day out for young carers and their family. 

Nothing is more important than special memories and so we have organised this to be an easy day, just come along and enjoy a park ride that has a bike to suit everyone's needs. There is something for everyone to get out and active and healthy lunch & drink included! There is free parking.

You can check PEDAL POWER website for further information on the venue and BIKES AVAILABLE

Based in a beautiful park, next to a lovely river there is plenty of space to adventure and explore on the Taff trail.

They have a wide variety of bikes available and feel free to bring along your own bike if you feel happier!

Please address any queries to leila.connolly@partneriaeth-awyr-agored.co.uk

We have been commissioned by the University of South Wales to deliver independent engagement in relation to developing their next Strategic Equality Plan objectives and actions.

We have a survey online (accessible Word and paper copies also available by emailing us) as part of this engagement.

This is open to third sector organisations in Wales, as well as staff and students at any USW site.

As this is particularly relevant to local community groups and third sector organisation in Merthyr Tydfil we would be grateful if you could share the information below in newsletters and on your website.

Have your say on equality, diversity and inclusion at the University of South Wales (USW)

University of South Wales (USW) have commissioned Diverse Cymru to undertake engagement as part of the development of their Strategic Equality Plan.

This survey aims to:

• Hear your experiences – good and bad
• Hear your solutions and ideas for objectives and actions
• Consider the requirements of different groups of people who experience discrimination, disadvantage, and / or inequality due to who they are.

We want to understand your experiences, ideas, and suggestions about how to reduce inequalities; advance equality, diversity, and inclusion; and promote understanding and good relations for all groups and communities in the areas of:

• Student recruitment and retention
• Student learning experience and attainment
• Student wider experience and belonging
• Staff recruitment and retention
• Staff development, and support
• Community engagement and involvement

The survey is open to:

• Learners at any USW campus, including The College Merthyr Tydfil
• Staff at any USW campus, including The College Merthyr Tydfil
• Third sector organisations and community groups in Wales

You can find and complete the survey here:

Welsh: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/QJZ7EA/

English: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/AQIZ7A/

If you would like a Word or paper copy of the survey or have any access requirements please email: research@diverse.cymru

Closing date: 30^th October 2023