"If local services are to better meet local needs and aspirations, local people need to be genuinely involved in developing these services. It is only by listening to the experiences and ideas of people who live in these areas that we can find the solutions which will make a lasting difference". Blackpool Council is putting in place systems and policies which will improve understanding and working relationships between the voluntary and community sector and the public sector in Blackpool. Our Community Engagement strategy will make sure that all public sector organisations meet locally-agreed standards when interacting with the communities of Blackpool. Compact for Blackpool is an agreement between public bodies and the voluntary and community sector, setting out how they work together. Organisations and groups that sign up to the Compact undertake to pursue shared principles and good working practices that will improve efficiency and accountability. Members of the Blackpool Compact form a mutually supporting network, sharing advice and expertise and making sure all partners work together for the benefits of the community. Potential partner organisations for projects will be able to look at Compact membership as an assurance that the groups in question have reached a recognised standard of partnership working. The Compact isn't just a document, it's a way of working together for mutual advantage. |