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's has recognised the strength of our approach and it’s “…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.