Celebrating Strength and Resilience

In an inspirational display of solidarity, over 100 members of Derbyshire’s Voluntary, Community, and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector came together at the vibrant ‘Save Our Sector’ event along with service users for the support provided by these groups. Hosted by Wynne Garnett, the Programme Lead for the VCSE Alliance, the gathering was a powerful statement to the resilience and dedication of our community in the face of proposed funding cuts from Derbyshire County Council.

This is not panic, this is strength.

Held with the help and support of Chesterfield Football Club Community Trust, and the African & Caribbean Community Association (ACCA), the atmosphere was charged with a sense of purpose and unity. Despite the looming financial uncertainties, the event was an uplifting celebration of the collective power and indomitable spirit of the VCSE sector. It was a day filled with inspiring stories, shared experiences, and a collective commitment to safeguarding the vital services that support Derbyshire’s communities.

The event featured insightful keynote speeches from Lud Ramsey, Vice-Chair of ACCA and Labour Councillor for the Spire Ward; Sue Wheatcroft, DVA Board Member and Founder of the Borderline Personality Support Group; and Karen Lawson, NHS Social Prescriber and Director at Kakou. Each speaker highlighted the indispensable role of VCSE groups in enhancing community health and wellbeing, and the risk taken in cutting funding to these services.

Lud Ramsey’s passionate address underscored the essential nature of VCSE services, reminding us all of the broader implications of the proposed cuts. “The services provided by our VCSE groups are not just essential; they are lifesaving”.

Sue Wheatcroft looked at the transformative power of community support often relied on by those most at need. “This is the true value of community support. Shouldn’t high salaries come second to making sure people have their basic needs met. These groups are a lifeline to our communities and we need to defend them” she remarked.

Karen Lawson spoke about the critical synergy between social prescribing and the VCSE sector, illustrating how integrated services enhance community health outcomes. “The synergy between the NHS and the VCSE is vital. Together, we can provide holistic care that addresses both medical and social needs. Please take a step back and think of the consequences of what you’re doing to the people of Derbyshire. Find a way that does not target those most in need” she emphasised.

Showcasing Impact and Value

A key focus of the event was gathering and presenting both quantitative and qualitative data to underscore the profound impact and value of VCSE groups. Attendees participated in interactive sessions designed to collect compelling evidence of the sector’s contributions to the community’s health and wellbeing. The data collected will be instrumental in advocating for the preservation of discretionary grant funding.

A Call to Action

The event concluded with a resounding call to action, urging attendees and the wider community to rally together, complete the consultation, and advocate for the preservation of discretionary grant funding.

“The biggest reflection today is this is just the beginning. It’s not just about the organisations that are losing funding, where will it land? It will land in our communities”. Jacqui Willis, CEO of DVA.

We have demonstrated that our sector is resilient, passionate, and indispensable. Now, we must take this momentum and channel it into tangible action to safeguard our future.