Partnership conference 2011
'Imagine Trafford', 24 February 2011
The last partnership conference, ‘Imagine Trafford’ was held at Lancashire County Cricket Club on Thursday 24th February.
The conference was an overall success with 93% of delegates saying it was a worthwhile day. Hosted by Jim Hancock, the political editor for North West Tonight, delegates were treated to an inspiring speech by MP Andrew Stunell, the undersecretary for communities and local government, attended workshops discussing the opportunities of the Big Society, Managing cultural or differing views of a subject and discussing the roles of communities. Furthermore, delegates were inspired by success showcases from the Sale West and Ashton Partnership and The Hub in Altrincham.
Showcases
The day hosted motivating success stories from The Sale West and Ashton Partnership, a community partnership trying to improve the lives of local residents around the Sale West Community Centre, creating community spirit and welfare, positive environmental action and a safer neighbourhood. Also showcased was The Hub, a community centre that was the result of a partnership between Trafford Council and Altrincham Baptist Church, providing a ‘home away from home’, community services, training and events.
Available presentations and additional information from the Showcases can be seen below, along with the Trafford Values showcase DVD.
The Trafford Wall of Vision
The beginning of the conference started with a way to visual our long term objectives, hopes and dreams for the future. Delegates got together in teams and put up a picture or mind map representing what they want for Trafford. This was used as the basis for what people could pledge to, mention during events, or network over.
Below you can see just what the attendees put together, along with the presentation used in case you want to use this creative method in your own events.
Our Vision's for where we want to be by 2021
Workshops
This year’s set of workshops focused on exploring the Big Society, putting it into action as well as discussing the relationship between the community and public sectors and examining the effect of different perspectives and ideas.
For an In-depth look at each of the workshops this year:
This year there were three workshops available:
Big Society or Big Con?
In which delegates were tasked in creating a fantasy community group using a three stage process once used by Walt Disney. First, delegates had to ‘dream’ up the ideal community group, then be a ‘Realist’ and see how it can be implemented. Finally, they became ‘The Critic’ and discussed what could go wrong, increasing their awareness of alternatives and how to overcome barriers they may encounter.
Delegates agreed that the main issues facing them would be the community group being bogged down my ‘red tape’ and lack of resources, as well as having to combat volunteer apathy. Everyone agreed that the best ways of combating this was with good leadership, self-awareness and focus on achievable targets, good communication with all and keeping a positive community spirit with newsletters, being inclusive for all and promoting self-development.
Professionals and the Community
This workshop set out to discuss and examine the role of partnership working in today’s Trafford; looking at the relationship between the community and public sectors.
Delegates started with a tug-of-war to demonstrate that both sides (community and public sector) pulling their own way will not move anywhere. There best course of option would therefore be to work in partnership. Soon after, the delegates were given a SWOT discussion to examine the pros and cons of every element of a partnership. Delegates agreed that a community’s strong volunteer presence, enthusiasm and vision; along with Trafford Council’s professional skills and resources could make an excellent partnership that could be forward thinking and pro-active. Their shared vision and established history of great partnerships would not be without some problems. Delegates discussed the issues of accountability, ‘who is in charge’, a breakdown of resources or communication, and the possibility of a ‘Silo working’ or ‘Begging Bowl’ culture.
To combat these issues, the workshop finished off with an opportunity to raise projects or ideas, and then each delegate could pledge to fulfil one.
Through My Eyes
The Final Workshop discussed the problems and opportunities surrounding a group full of people from different backgrounds or ideas – which is particularly important in today’s multicultural Britain.
Delegates were given an in-depth seminar by the Chief Executive of Trafford Council, before having a small debate on the conditions of a good, mixed partnership and how to overcome any barriers. In regards to this, delegates agreed on the importance of communication and synergy between all those involved. They agreed that, if united under one focused, common goal for the greater good, everyone’s ideas can be realistically taken into account. Secondly, creating an atmosphere of trust, understanding and learning will not only reduce make the partnership inclusive to everyone, but also promote a positive work ethic that may tackle apathy or effect relations between the different groups. Ultimately, it was agreed, the partnership must promote everyone working together as a group, not just as a collection of varied individuals – everyone can contribute, feel welcome and go ‘one step beyond’.
Past and Future Conference
The next conference is due to be set in the autumn months. Presentations and items available from conferences in the past are also still available below.
How can I get involved?
The Partnership conferences are now scheduled to be a occurring event, and anyone from the public, private or community sector is welcome to attend, network and learn about partnership working.
If you have any questions: please don’t hesitate to contact the partnerships team at:
Partnerships Team
Transformation and Resources
7th Floor
Quay West
Trafford Wharf
Manchester
M17 1HH
Email: partnershipsteam@trafford.gov.uk
Telephone: 0161 912 4014
Minicom: 0161 912 1453