Community groups renew partnership with council through refreshed 'St Helens Together' Strategy

Article date: 14 April 2025

This renewed partnership highlights the vital role the VCFSE sector plays in supporting vulnerable residents, strengthening community life, and fostering social cohesion.

The draft St Helens Together Strategy 2025-2028 aims to build on the partnership's achievements so far. At its core, it is aligned with the Government's Civil Society Covenant—a framework designed to empower VCFSE groups and leverage their local knowledge to deliver better outcomes for communities.

Earlier this week, the strategy was formally launched at a special event at St Helens Town Hall. The event provided an opportunity for stakeholders to connect, share their services, and discuss the needs and experiences of local residents.

The launch also marked the start of a public consultation, inviting residents to share their views on the voluntary and community sector. The survey explores residents' awareness of local groups and asks what kinds of services they'd like to see in their neighbourhoods.

Residents can take part in the consultation by visiting https://sthelens.gov.uk/consultations. The survey will remain open until Sunday 4 May.

Councillor Anthony Burns, Leader of St Helens Borough Council, said: "For over a century, the VCFSE sector in our borough has been a cornerstone of community life. This refreshed strategy builds on the collaborative spirit we've seen over the past four years, aiming to explore new and innovative ways we can work together to improve the lives of our residents."

Councillor Sue Murphy MBE, Cabinet Member for Public Health, added: "Our renewed St Helens Together Partnership recognises that the work of our voluntary and community partners is more important than ever before. This strategy sets out a vision for a borough where VCFSE organisations are recognised, valued, and supported in shaping and delivering services that make a real difference in people's lives."