Social Inclusion Programme
The main
piece of work that the Partnership has been undertaking is the delivery the
Social Inclusion Programme as part of the Area Investment Framework. Our
approach is premised on the inseparable link between economic development and
social inclusion. Hazel Blear has recognised the strength of our approach and
its “…real potential for linking economic and social objectives."
The Social
Inclusion Programme is delivering an innovative programme of work, working with
local partners particularly focused on the areas of disadvantage locally. The
programme has delivered consultancy work for Gosport Borough Council on the
regeneration of Rowner and is currently working with Havant Council on issues
in Leigh Park. Working with the University of Portsmouth it has secured
£400,000 to facilitate the development of local community-owned assets worth
more than £6 million and improving the level and quality of community action,
learning and impact evaluation. We are also working with existing and new
social enterprises to improve business development opportunities and help grow
the sector.
In addition,
in early February we will be releasing a key report on what the Programme and
Stakeholders want to see locally to promote social inclusion locally that
contributes to sustainable prosperity.
Social
Inclusion Charity
We are
delighted to announce the setting up of our new social inclusion charity - the
Partnership Foundation.
It has been
created to strengthen our charitable work over the past 14 years.
The
foundation mirrors the core values of the Partnership and intends to actively
target and support the most disadvantaged groups within our communities.
The
Foundation will search for opportunities that enhance the social and
environmental well-being of the area.
We will do
this by seeking resources and funding through trusts & government
programmes such as the new ‘Grass Roots Scheme’, in order to continue to run an
extension of our very successful ‘Global Grants’ service that has supported
many local groups working with vulnerable people for the past 8 years.
In partnership
with the Portsmouth Third Sector Development Consortium and the business
community we will secure further funding to continue the work of the
‘Partnership Business Initiative’ that offers skills and resources to the
community.