The Role of the VCS in Health and Social Care

Anna Jackson

The Carers’ Resource

Myth 1 – There are 100s of groups, too many really

• Over 1,800 in Bradford and 1,000 in Craven

• Localism, Big Society – many more to come and ever changing

• Access – someone else will know• Training – HPP and

partners

Myth 2 – They are not professionals

• All different shapes and sizes but all will have plans, policies, quality assurance etc

• Consultancy/training and testing by VCS

• Many VCS organisations now tender for contracts and will be looking to be AQP and subcontracting opportunities

Myth 3 – It’s all free but they still moan about money

• Volunteers are not free

• Grants are disappearing, sustainability is an issue

• Personalisation challenges

• Charging for services is a reality

• Service provision costs money and to think otherwise is

false accounting

Myth 4 – The VCS has nothing to offer me

• Services – practical support, befriending, transport, information, activities

• Ticking the boxes – meeting objectives• Involvement and Engagement with

communities• Insight and Strategic Input

into future planning