Voluntary Sector

Information on this page has been provided by organisations within the Voluntary Sector.

Youth Focus 'Sub Regional Vetting and Barring VCS Workshop' - 2nd November 2009

On 2nd November 2009, Youth Focus, along with Milton Keynes Council for Voluntary Youth Services and Oxfordshire Council for Voluntary Children (OCVYS) ran a free half-day learning seminar, which focused on the new Vetting and Barring Scheme.

The event, which was for voluntary and community organisations working with children, young people, families and vulnerable adults, provided a detailed awareness of the scheme and featured contributions from the Home Office and national partners from the Children and Young Peoples VCS.

For further information, please contact Youth Focus on 01296 631911 or office@youthfocus.org.uk

Youth Focus 'Building the Trust 2009' Conference - 'Safeguarding Children and Young People'

Working in partnership with the BSCB and the Buckinghamshire Children and Young People’s Trust, Youth Focus ran a conference on Safeguarding Children and Young People on 13th May 2009, at Green Park Centre.

The conference was attended by over 90 delegates, with the majority representing a wide range of voluntary organisations, from those based in the community to large national bodies.

Donald McPhail, Independent Chair of the BSCB gave the opening address and Kevin Garrod, Regional Development Manager, Children England/VCS Engage provided an update on the new National Third Sector Safeguarding Unit. Pat Stappard, Senior Human Resources Officer introduced the Independent Safeguarding Authority and gave an overview of the requirements for safe employment practices.

Steps Drama presented two lively and interactive training sessions on Safer Employment and Managing Allegations against staff and volunteers, which were well received and the Local Area Designated Officers explained their roles and how these relate to the voluntary sector.

Afternoon Workshops focussed on the new Vetting and Barring Scheme, further details on Managing Allegations, Integrated Processes including the Common Assessment Framework and Commissioning and Contracts.

The event was closed by Sue Imbriano, Director of Children’s Services. Delegates found the day very relevant to their organisations and the conference provided a valuable opportunity for the voluntary sector to explore the importance of safeguarding.

For further information, please contact Youth Focus on 01296 631911 or office@youthfocus.org.uk