Visible Communities Richard Bridge and Nadia Denton Visible Standards Team

Visible Communities TM A set of quality systems and standards for the community sector. A unique approach to promoting and developing quality and best practice in the community sector. Based around a set of seven core principles that we believe underpin strong sustainable community organisations.

What is Visible? a VOICE to represent issues of Local Concern an INDEPENDENT and politically neutral organisation a SERVICE provider for local people an INITIATOR of projects to meet locally identified need a BUILDER of partnerships with other local organisations and groups a strong LOCAL network of people and organisations a way to ENGAGE local people to become active in their communities

What is Visible? A development tool for community based organisations which can either be used as a self-assessment model or for accreditation. A quality framework developed by Community Matters in association with its members and other core stakeholders. An accredited standard endorsed by the Charity Commission.

Who is Visible For? For community groups of all shapes and sizes but particularly relevant to those groups often referred to as community anchors. Organisations who want to improve and build upon their existing capacity. Organisations that want to increase their chances of securing funding. Local Authorities who may want to support groups that they are working with.

Why Chose the Visible Standard? It is the only accredited standard designed by the voluntary and community sector. Comes with many easily accessible forms of support to get you through the standard. It is a standard specifically designed to allow you as many options as possible.

The Visible Process Log on to for a free demo of the Visible online workbook. Register and set up your account. You are free to use the Visible tool for an indefinite period. Select 28 out of 121 indicators, including those that are compulsory Once ready for accreditation apply to the Visible Standards team.

The Visible Process Organisations outside of London can apply for support for the costs of accreditation through the Lankelly Chase Bursary. You will be sent a list of the required documents that need to be sent back to Community Matters. The first stage of assessment is an initial desk based assessment of the documents, your evidence and the indicators.

The Visible Process The assessment visit lasts for a day. It includes a tour of the facility and a series of short interviews. The assessor produces a report recommending accreditation; conditional accreditation or failure. If successful, you will receive a certificate confirming that you have attained the Visible standard. This is valid for 3 years. Soon after, you will receive a call from the Visible Standards Development Officer, who will carry out a short evaluation.

What is Pre Visible? An entry level review drawn from the indicators in the main VISIBLE Standard. A reference tool that is packed with useful guidance and suggestions. A test of the systems an organisation has in place via a series of online questions and requests to attach specific pieces of supporting evidence. A report, if requested, that reviews your systems and policies, conducted by independent assessors. A report that can be shown to potential funders to demonstrate that an organisation is legally compliant.

The Pre Visible Process Log on to for a free access to the Pre Visible Development Tool. Register and set up your account. Complete the Pre Visible Review over time. It contains detailed guidance on the information and evidence required.

The Pre Visible Process When ready submit the Pre Visible review. A desk assessment will be carried out by trained Community Matters Visible assessors. A full report will be provided with recommendations for future development. This will be valid for 3 years. Continue to use Pre Visible as a development tool and maintain it as your online quality file. Progress on to full Visible Standard.

Who is Pre Visible For? It applies to groups of any size, particularly those who may not be ready for the requirements of Visible. It is appropriate for groups going for small pots of funding/grants. Groups at the start of a major development, period of growth, or new project, who wish to review their current governance and practice before setting off.

Why Chose Pre Visible? The Pre Visible review looks at whether an organisation is fit for purpose and legally functioning. It is packed with advice and guidance, and is a positive development tool.

Top Ten Visible Communities Benefits Achieves a recognised independent national standard. Evidences the quality and breath of the organisation’s work. Gives confidence to funders, members, users and other stakeholders. Helps frame service level agreements. Provides a framework for development.

Top Ten Visible Communities Benefits Gives early warning of potential problems. Helps organisations to stay legal. Improves the management of community buildings. Improves local relations and communication. Puts the community anchor concept into practice.

The Costs Online Workbook £15 Pre Visible Review £450 + VAT Accreditation Standard £ VAT Community Matters Members £ VAT Local Licensed Agent £1400 +VAT

For More Information Community Matters 12 – 20 Baron Street, London N1 9LL Richard Bridge, Regional and Quality Programmes Manager Nadia Denton, Visible Standards Development Officer