Over the last six months, around 40 VCSE leaders from across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight have been taking part in Systems Leadership training, kindly funded by EnergiseMe. Bringing together colleagues from across the sector, the programme has created a valuable space to learn, reflect, challenge thinking and, importantly, build relationships.
One thing became clear throughout the sessions, there was a real appetite to keep the conversations, ideas and momentum going beyond the training itself.
As a result, we are excited to share the birth of the HIVCA Ambassadors Network.
Convened by HIVCA, the network brings together VCSE leaders and practitioners working across health and social care who are passionate about ensuring communities and the voluntary sector have a strong voice in system decision making. Through systems leadership, members will work collaboratively to influence across organisations and sectors, advocate for the VCSE sector, and help strengthen connections between communities and the wider health and care system.
Importantly, this is not a closed group. While the network has grown from the Systems Leadership programme, anyone with an interest in being part of this space is very welcome to join. Whether you are already representing the sector in partnership forums or simply passionate about strengthening the VCSE voice, we would love to hear from you.
The network is formally part of HIVCA’s new governance structure and is already looking ahead to its next piece of work. The next session will focus on mapping forums, partnerships and meetings across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight to better understand where VCSE representation already exists. The aim is to strengthen links between representatives and the wider sector, creating a stronger feedback loop between system conversations and our communities.
If you would like to find out more, including seeing the network’s mission statement or getting involved, please get in touch with: joy.martin@hivca.org
Written By: HIVCA
