FAQ's
What is ChangeUp? - ChangeUp is a programme of capacity building for the infrastructure of the Voluntary, Community and Faith Sector (VCFS), developed in partnership with the sector. The aim of ChangeUp investment is to catalyse the modernisation of infrastructure provision in order to improve its sustainability, quality and reach. The initiative is to run from 2004 to 2014. Led by sector expertise, the Capacitybuilders agency manages ChangeUp. For further information visit the Capacitybuilders website: Click Here
What does ChangeUp aim to achieve? - A "bold but achievable" aim has been set for ChangeUp to achieve: that by 2014 the needs of frontline voluntary and community organisations will be met by support which is available nationwide, structured for maximum efficiency, offering excellent provision, which is accessible to all while reflecting and promoting diversity, and is sustainably funded.
What is 'infrastructure provision'? - Initially ChangeUp talked about "organisations whose primary purpose is the provision of infrastructure functions - support and development, co-ordination, representation and promotion - to frontline organisations. Capacitybuilders talks about support organisations that "provide information, facilities and other kinds of support to help third sector organisations become stronger". In essence an infrastructure or support organisation is one whose work is focussed upon enabling other organisations, who exist for charitable or social benefit purposes, to do better.
Who is responsible for ChangeUp in East Sussex? - Every sub region in England has a ChangeUp consortium. The composition of each consortium is unique to its sub region. ChangeUp in East Sussex is managed by a consortium of 15 infrastructure agancies in East Sussex. The lead and accountable body for the consortium is Action in rural Sussex.
How can I become a consortium member? - Membership of the East Sussex ChangeUp Consortium is open to Voluntary, Community and Faith Sector infrastructure organisations operating at borough and/or subregional level with a main focus to provide support services to other Voluntary, Community and Faith Sector Organisations. Members must be registered charities or not for profit agencies that can demonstrate a proven track record and significant reach into their locality/community of interest. Organisations wishing to become members should apply in writing to the Chair of the Consortium.
Is there any funding available for my organisation? - The bulk of ChangeUp funding in East Sussex has been directed towards 'infrastructure' organisations, although limited funding has been given to front-line organisations engaging in specific projects that have been deemed to be building the capacity of the sector as a whole. At this moment in time there is not a commissioning round in place, although there are some limited resources available for discrete pieces of work.
How can I tell ChangeUp what my organisation thinks?
- you can talk to the CVS that covers the place where you are based
- you can talk to any of the specialist infrastructure organisations on the Consortium about particular matters relating to disability, bme, faith, rural, inclusion or ICT
you can post your views via the ChangeUp website
What are ChangeUp 'Hubs'? - the ChangeUp 'Hubs' are national resources, which were funded by Capacitybuilders to offer free services, information and support on six topic areas to charities. These six hubs are Finance, ICT, Governance, Workforce, Performance and Volunteering. Please see the 'themes' section of this website for the latest news and information in these six areas.
From April 2008 Capacitybuilders investment at a national level was refocused from the six National Hubs to nine National Support Service (NSS) workstreams.
What are the National Support Service workstreams? - The NSS workstreams replaced the six national hubs of expertise which continue to be relevant for the growth of most third sector organisations. National consultations identified gaps in support provision, leading to the introduction of the NSS workstreams to address future challenges in the sector's development. In particular, campaigning, advocacy and influencing governance are seen as increasingly vital components in the health of civil society. Also recognised is the need for greater community involvement, especially in local decision making and planning. The primary aim of the NSS workstreams is to give support providers the resources, evidence and good practice they need to deliver help to the frontline. For further information about the NSS workstreams: Click Here
