Dear Members,
We stand united in our determination to challenge the short-sightedness of the recent cabinet paper and the decision the DCC cabinet is likely to make today.
It is deeply concerning that the views of 91% of respondents, who strongly oppose the recommendation to cut all funding, are being ignored. This decision overlooks the critical role our sector plays in supporting Derbyshire’s most vulnerable communities.
The paper mentions opportunities for collaboration and exploring alternative solutions during the consultation. However, as key infrastructure supporting our sector, we were eager to participate but were told there was no time. The proposed mitigations are based on a fundamental misunderstanding of our sector and the essential role of infrastructure support.
A total funding cut to the Voluntary Sector will be catastrophic and have long-lasting effects. Vulnerable individuals in Derbyshire’s communities, whom we tirelessly support, do not deserve this, especially at a time when our services are more crucial than ever.
The current county council cuts will decimate our communities and irrevocably alter the lives of our most vulnerable. Our sector has always been the safety net for those falling through the cracks of service criteria and health inequalities. What will happen now? How can we move forward in partnership with Derbyshire County Council when our capacity is slashed, or we cease to exist?
All this while Adult Care maintains a large team of assistant directors and is currently recruiting another at over £100k.
We will stand with infrastructure colleagues and others at the cabinet meeting this afternoon. Although we won’t be allowed to comment at the meeting, we will be collectively and formally responding in the days to come.
We will not take this lying down. As the infrastructure supporting the VCSE sector, we are here to be a voice, to protect and advocate for our sector, and to support the creation of partnerships. We will campaign vigorously against these cuts and challenge the decision to ensure that our message is heard loud and clear.
Remember, we are part of the solution, not the problem. Let’s continue to support each other and our communities through these challenging times.
Best regards,
Jacqui