The recession: we're all in it together
Can we develop shared strategies and practices for these tough economic times?

A cross sector event hosted by the CCLA, London Funders, London Regional ChangeUp Consortium, LVSC and the Young Foundation.

A constructive exploration of this question at a key conference which brought public sector, charitable and corporate funders together with a broad cross-section of the voluntary and community sector in London.

The event was based on a conviction that by sharing each others' perspectives and finding ways to work together we can help the third sector thrive and help London's communities cope with the challenges. Participants looked at the financial implications of the recession for funders and commissioners in London and for the voluntary and community organisations they support. Discussion covered both the new demands caused by the impact of economic problems on London's communities and the challenges facing funders whose resources are also affected.

The day provided an opportunity to develop mutually agreed solutions that maximise resources to sustain the voluntary and community sector and foster the resilience of those organisations delivering services to London's communities and addressing pressing social issues.

There was plenty of opportunity for all participants to contribute to the discussions, sharing constructive ideas, exploring new approaches, fostering collaboration and above all encouraging mutual understanding of the opportunities and the challenges facing both sides of the funding relationship - donor/commissioner and recipient - to renew relationships and trust and ameliorate problems.

To inform discussion, there was an expert line-up of speakers who provided:
• an up-to-date briefing on the economic situation
• feedback on central and local government action
• succinct reviews of the issues facing the boroughs, London government and
independent funders
• a look at the impact already felt in communities and how this is affecting front-line services,
and a perspective from London's second tier agencies.

Invitations were extended to senior representatives of all tiers of London government
including Leaders of London boroughs; grantmaking foundations and other London funders;
directors of the London councils for voluntary service; staff of key front-line organisations and
the major infrastructure bodies in London. The event was by invitation only.

For more information, please contact Fancy Sinantha at 020 8709 9275.