9th May 2018
York St John University, York , United Kingdom
VSSN’s next day conference will take place on 9th May 2018, hosted by York Business School, York Saint John University.
Academic and media commentary on charities and civil society organisations often presents a pessimistic view of organisations facing many challenges, whether due to funding constraints, loss of autonomy and public trust, and reputational damage following links to public scandals. While a critical analysis of the voluntary sector role in shoring up competitive and contractual cultures is called for, we also need to recognise that alternative models and initiatives are emerging, especially at grassroots levels.
There are growing pressures on locally based community organisations and social enterprises to tackle increasingly complex social issues, but organisational actors are also active in developing different ways to address these challenges.
This day seminar aims to explore new and innovative approaches which are being put in place to tackle complex social problems, including enduring and increasing poverty and growing inequalities, and the forms and effectiveness of such new approaches.
The seminar will ask how organisations and communities are responding to prolonged public sector funding cuts, austerity and the upheavals caused by political uncertainties, including over BREXIT. It will explore a range of questions, for example:
- Do new initiatives represent an opportunity to innovate and work together to successfully tackle complex social problems?
- If so, what initiatives are emerging that present sustainable opportunities for the future?
- Which initiatives are proving successful and which are not, and why?
- What challenges do organisations face in developing new initiatives in the current environment?
- Can successful strategies be replicated in diverse communities and what problems are encountered in achieving this?
Attending the event
VSSN aims to promote an understanding of the UK voluntary sector through research. The event is aimed at researchers, academics, doctoral students and practitioners in voluntary organisations or foundations interested in the UK voluntary sector. We also welcome policymakers and practitioners engaged in relevant fields. We are always pleased to meet and receive contributions from colleagues in similar settings in other countries. The working language is English.
Bookings
Bookings are closed for this event.
