EHDC Committee Library Report: Perceived Lack of Premises for Community Groups and Organisations in Petersfield

Report No: LDS 10/01 - 16 January 2001 - Final Copy

Central Area Community Committee
Perceived Lack of Premises for Community Groups and Organisations in Petersfield
Report of the Area Co-ordinator

For Information

Purpose of Report:

To report a perceived lack of premises for community groups and organisations operating in Central Area, and to inform Members, Town and Parish Councils and organisations/community groups of a forthcoming survey to establish whether this perception is valid. The results of the survey will inform potential action to address this issue.

Recommendations:

None - this report is for Information Purposes only.

Resourcing Implications:

The survey will be produced by the District Council and sent out with the usual Central Area mailing at minimal cost. Any resourcing implications will be contained within the Area Co-ordination budget.

Body of Report:

1.0 Introduction

1.1 At a recent meeting of the Petersfield Interagency Forum (run by Voluntary Action for East Hampshire), participants discussed what they viewed as a pressing need for additional, affordable premises for community groups and organisations based (or requiring a base) in Petersfield. Some of these organisations (such as the Citizens Advice Bureau) provide services across the Central Area while others (such as the East Hampshire Advocacy Service) provide services across the District. Some smaller groups operating more locally may also be in need of premises.

2.0 The Need for a Survey

2.1 Participants at the Forum requested action from the District Council and Voluntary Action for East Hampshire and it was agreed that a survey should be carried out in order to establish the extent of the problem. The Area Co-ordinator agreed to work with Voluntary Action for East Hampshire to conduct the survey, analyse the results and report back to the Petersfield Interagency Forum, The Area Community Committee and the Town Council.

2.2 It is anticipated that the survey will be carried out in the near future and it is hoped that those receiving a survey form will take the time to give a considered response so that the results will usefully inform future policy and action on the ground in this area.

3.0 Conclusion

3.1 Members are asked to note this information. Results of the survey will be reported to a future meeting.

Contact officer: Jen Anderson Tel: 01730 234106

Email: jen_anderson@easthants.gov.uk

Consultation:

Background Papers: