There are still concerns regarding the government’s Compact Plus scheme, according to the Compact Working Group.

Following a meeting in September, which included a presentation by the Active Communities Unit at the Home Office, there were still questions over the jurisdiction, the national/local split and the current and future architecture of the Compact. A smaller Compact group is to try and resolve these issues, focusing particularly on the Commissioner’s role, the budget and structure of a Compact Plus organisation, the speed of action and process of implementation.

Despite this, there was a strong support in principle for the initiative, however it was agreed that the sector could not be asked to sign up to Compact Plus without clarification of these issues. The Compact Plus Working Group has been asked to produce clearer guidance ready for the annual meeting in November.

Meanwhile, plans for Compact Week between 1 and 7 November are underway. This annual awareness-raising week aims to highlight how the Compact can help voluntary and community organisations in their relationships with central and local government, and sector organisations are being asked to showcase examples of best practice and new developments.

Richard Catherall, Chair of the Local Compact Developers Network, said: “Compact Week is the opportunity of the year to milestone any progress in partnerships or relationships. With this year’s theme of excellence don’t forget what can be achieved by changing the way we work together for the better.”

Visit www.thecompact.org.uk for more information.