The idea of the Third Sector Strategy Group was first raised within the discussions that have taken place between representatives from CVS Fife, Volunteer Centre Fife, VONEF and the Social Enterprise Network about the formation of the Third Sector Interface for Fife. Other stakeholders were also involved in some of these discussions in the early stages, and representatives from CVS Fife and Citizens Advice & Rights Fife drew up the initial scoping paper.
Following agreement amongst Interface stakeholders, it was decided to consult on proposals for forming the Strategy Group at a CVS Fife event held in September 2011 - Future Directions for the Third Sector. At this event, attended by over 60 representatives from voluntary, community, social enterprise and charitable organisations, delegates provided the following guidelines in relation to forming the Strategy group:
At the event, delegates were asked to complete an Expression of Interest Form if they would consider joining the group. Thereafter, an online survey was issued to all the main contacts for organisations held by CVS Fife also seeking Expressions of Interest. Over forty expressions of interest were received in total.
Nineteen representatives have been appointed to serve on the group until January 2013. The appointments were made not just on the basis of individual experience, but also taking into consideration the need for the group as a whole to have a balance of interests in terms of themes covered, organisational size and geographical focus. The appointment process also considered the links candidates had to other Voluntary Sector and multi-agency forums. The current members are:
The group has agreed a governance framework - please see the Governance document for further information.