New horizons in Edinburgh for NI Chief Officers

The Association of Chief Officer of Voluntary Organisations (ACOVO), has organised an exciting opportunity for Third Sector Leaders from the Northern Ireland to meet their Scottish counterparts, gain insight into the Scottish Voluntary and Community Sector, and share good practice.

Chief Officers from Northern Ireland's Voluntary and Community Sector have long expressed an interest in exploring the role of voluntary and community sector leaders in other jurisdictions in order to consider new ideas and different approaches, which will be required as voluntary and community sector leaders prepare for the implementation of the Review of Public Administration. Scotland’s voluntary and community sector has many similarities with Northern Ireland, and there is scope for ongoing cooperation and networking given the close proximity and relatively inexpensive travel costs.

The purpose of this study tour is to:

• Increase understanding and develop new ideas
• Network with leaders in the voluntary and community sector in Scotland
• Explore how the voluntary and community sector has developed under devolution in Scotland

Benefits to participants:

• Generation of new ideas
• An opportunity to reflect on and share good practice
• Networks and contacts that will allow for sustained cooperation

The return leg is planned for Belfast in September, and it is hoped that ACOVO and ACOSVO will have achieved a successful joint project, which will build knowledge and understanding and help to foster ongoing links and cooperation. There is also the possibility of joining with The Wheel in the Republic of Ireland for future programmes.