1. Children’s Workforce Development in the Voluntary Sector Current issues Di McNeish

2. Contents of presentation Interim findings from ongoing study based on information from range of Third Sector organisations on the workforce needs of staff and volunteers, including: - recruitment & retention - qualifications & training - continuing professional development - access to training & development provided by Children’s Trusts as part of integrated working - use of CWDC standards, materials and support

3. Approach Panel sample of 30 organisations Range of sizes, location & focus of work Direct service providers, senior managers with workforce lead, umbrellas Phone interviews and follow up e- questionnaire

4. Context TSO’s working in environment heavily influenced by: - Funding - Commissioning - Local priorities - New regulation

5. Recruitment & retention Pluses Attractive work Culture & ethos CPD opportunities incl autonomy & influence Minuses Insecurity Pay & conditions Career advancement Some posts hard to recruit to

6. Qualifications & skills Diverse and changing Experience & aptitude often as important as qualification Debates about appropriateness of qualifications – level, content, mode & access

7. CPD & progression Where CPD requirements exist, orgs report they are met – otherwise variable Some excellent examples of well-embedded approaches to CPD Some excellent examples of opportunities for progression e.g. from volunteer to manager But challenges incl funding for release & backfill

8. Training Many orgs feel well served by their LA, but varies by remit In-house provision also varies Some orgs developing reciprocal arrangements

9. Role of CWDC Limited understanding of CWDC role Some awareness & use of materials e.g. induction standards Free events valued Regional staff valued Confusion over who does what Influence on LA priorities