This snapshot, taken on 07/04/2010, shows web content selected for preservation by The National Archives. External links, forms and search boxes may not work in archived websites.
Last updated: 31 March 2009
31 March 2009
A new Government taskforce has been set up to look at innovative but practical ways that businesses and the third sector can work together to help those communities that need it most during the global downturn.
Chaired by Dame Julia Cleverdon DCVO CBE, the Taskforce will spend three months exploring ways in which private and third sector organisations can work in partnership to help communities tackle new challenges and become stronger together. They will report their findings to Liam Byrne, Minister for the Cabinet Office, before the end of July.
On her appointment as Chair, Julia Cleverdon said:
“It is critically important – now more than ever - that Business should work in close partnership with the third sector to build strength and resilience particularly in communities in challenging circumstances. Recognising and maximising the skills and expertise that exist in both sectors will help our communities – not just to weather the present downturn but, looking ahead, to build ongoing relationships that will be of real long-term, practical benefit.”
Kevin Brennan MP, Minister for the Third Sector, said:
“We are delighted that Dame Julia Cleverdon has agreed to chair the Taskforce; she brings a clear vision and wealth of experience to the role.
"The recession has the potential to profoundly change the way that the private sector works with the third sector. I hope and expect that this taskforce will generate creative responses, which will lead both sides to question – why haven’t we always done things like this?”
Liam Byrne MP, Minister for the Cabinet Office commented:
“Despite a tough economic situation, the country is showing its true colours, its people are compassionate, generous and determined to help those who are less fortunate. This taskforce will identify yet more ways that we can work together to build strong communities throughout the nation. I look forward to seeing the most innovative and effective ways in which the private and third sector can work together to support those people and communities most in need.”
Dame Julia Cleverdon is Vice President of Business in the Community, a unique movement of 800 companies across the UK committed to continually improving their positive impact on society. Julia was Chief Executive of Business in the Community for 16 years, from 1 April 1992 – 1 March 2008. During that period, and under her leadership, the organisation grew and expanded from 40 staff and £2Million turnover to 400 staff and £24Million turnover.
Julia has established a formidable reputation as a renowned leader and speaker on corporate responsibility and has personally been responsible for introducing new thinking and action at the most senior level of organisations both in the UK and overseas.
The Taskforce has been established following the publication of ‘Real Help for Communities: Volunteers, Charities & Social Enterprises’ – an action plan outlining £42.5 million of support to help volunteers, charities and social enterprises deliver extra help to those that need it most during the global economic downturn.
The Government’s aim is to build the strength of charities, voluntary organisations and social enterprises so they are stronger than ever before.