"Reforms to commissioning are badly needed," says Lloyds Bank Foundation CEO Paul Streets as he responds to Minister’s reflections on the Civil Society strategy
25 October 2019
Responding to the Minister for Civil Society’s reflections on the Civil Society strategy, Paul Streets, chief executive of the Lloyds Bank Foundation for England and Wales, said:
“We welcome the Minister’s renewed focus on the Civil Society Strategy and in particular on building better connections between people in communities and supporting the social sector through an effective commissioning and funding environment.
“Small and local charities are uniquely placed to build connections across communities. They are usually created with, by and for the communities they serve and act as the glue that holds them together.
“It’s also a good sign that the Government acknowledges the need for a long-term, sustainable and strategic approach to funding. Small charities are under more pressure than ever and are being squeezed out of accessing funding because of the ever-larger rush for big contracting. Reforms to commissioning are badly needed and must ensure local supply chains include smaller organisations who have much to offer. Social value is an important part of this, and we hope to see greater recognition of the distinctive value that small and local charities generate.”
ENDS
Contact Lloyds Bank Foundation Press & Communications Officer Imthiaz Rehman via 020 3988 3742 or IRehman@lloydsbankfoundation.org.uk for more information.
Notes to Editors:
About Lloyds Bank Foundation for England and Wales
Lloyds Bank Foundation for England and Wales partners with small and local charities who help people overcome complex social issues. During 2018 the Foundation distributed £20 million through new and existing grants, supporting more than 900 charities which helped 142,000 people experiencing disadvantage.
Through long-term funding, developmental support and influencing policy and practice, the Foundation helps those charities make life-changing impact. The Foundation is an independent charitable trust funded by the profits of Lloyds Banking Group as part of their commitment to Helping Britain Prosper.
