VSSN in conference first with NCVO

The call for papers for the annual NCVO Research Conference circulated today confirms VSSN as co-organisers for the first time. As Jayne Blackborow, Event Organiser, said, "this is a unique meeting place for both researchers and users of research to discuss current research, its implications and the need for further research in the voluntary and community sector. This year, for the first time, NCVO is teaming up with the Voluntary Sector Studies Network (VSSN) to organise the conference.

"The 10th conference will be held at Sheffield Hallam University on 1st and 2nd September 2004 and we are now inviting paper and session proposals. We invite proposals on all areas of relevance to the voluntary sector, but would particularly welcome proposals on topics of current policy interest to the sector. These might include accountability, transparency, civil renewal, independence, the role of the sector in the delivery of public services, and the relationship between the sector and government.

"How to submit your proposal:-

• Abstracts of 400-600 words, for single papers or whole sessions should be sent to Jayne Blackborow at NCVO no later than Friday 26th March 2004
• Authors will be notified of acceptance of their submissions by Friday 16th April 2004
• Successful authors will need to submit papers of between 2000 and 2500 words (where relevant) by Friday 25th June 2004.

"If you have any questions, or would like to know more about the conference, please email jayne.blackborow@ncvo-vol.org.uk"

Further details, including bookings information, are also available on NCVO's Web site.