At VHS, we were encouraged to see that the Scottish Government had scheduled a debate on strengthening Third Sector partnership so early in the parliamentary term. The thoughtful contributions to the debate from both the Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice and Housing and from MSPs were largely welcome too.
In her statement, Shirley-Anne Somerville MSP committed to the development of a ‘strategic partnership of equals’, reflecting the ask for third sector parity in our Manifesto for Health Creation. The Cabinet Secretary further committed to ensuring that the partnership reflected the needs and experiences of the whole sector, which was again welcome given the diversity of Scotland’s Third Sector.
Many MSPs, including Ms Somerville, spoke of the crucial need to improve the sustainability of Third Sector funding which will be cause for cautious optimism for many in the sector. However, the failure to commit to statutory underpinning of the partnership is disappointing, despite assurance that it is ‘not off the table’. We believe that underpinning the partnership in statute is important for ensuring accountability and longevity of the partnership, and we will be championing this when consultation with the sector commences.
Carol Mochan MSP and Holly Bruce MSP both highlighted the need for greater protections of the Third Sector workforce. This again reflects the call in our manifesto for a review of third sector funding and Fair Work requirements to ensure equitable pay for the third sector workforce, so we were pleased that their amendments to the motion were agreed.
Finally, a minority of MSPs in the Chamber questioned the government funding of several third sector organisations with a campaigning focus to their work. As demonstrated by our recent (IN)VISIBLE research project, the third sector is a vital and trusted voice for under-represented groups. Many government-funded third sector organisations champion the interests of people experiencing inequality, whether that aligns with government policy or not. This can feel uncomfortable, particularly if organisations receive government funding, but is an important part of our democratic process.
On the whole, we are encouraged by the momentum that has been built so early in the parliamentary term, and we will take steps to ensure that our members’ voices are reflected through the co-production process.
If you have any questions about this statement, please contact our Policy and Public Affairs Lead.
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