Regions

Children England has nine regional groups which bring together the children and families' voluntary and community sector (VCS) in each region. They are coordinated by volunteer chairs from member organisations. 

Aim of regional groups

• To engage and involve both members and the wider voluntary sector through events, training and consultations.
• To represent the children and families' voluntary sector on appropriate local or regional strategic bodies.
• To influence the statutory sector about the role of the voluntary sector and how to work more effectively together.

Eligibility

All individuals from full member organisations are eligible to join the relevant regional group, regardless of where the organisations head office is based. There is also a regional associate membership, which is at the invitation of the regional group. 

How do I join?

If your organisation is already a member, please contact the appropriate regional linkworker to be added to the mailing list and receive more information. If you are not from a member organisation, you are able to attend two regional meetings to see if you think they are relevant for you, before you take out membership.

Support to regional groups

Each regional group is supported by a linkworker from a member organisation, who administers and develops the regional groups work. 

VCS Engage

We also have Regional Development Managers working part time in each region, funded through the DCSF VCS Engage programme. The key work of these post holders is to: 

• Support the strategic involvement of the sector within the region, working with voluntary sector partners to identify their ongoing support and infrastructure needs.
• Coordinate the implementation of the VCS Engage programme in their region.

Support the development of improved links and coordination between Government Office and the VCS in each region.