VAST, the voluntary sector’s local infrastructure organisation (LIO) for Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire, has been awarded the Local Infrastructure Quality Accreditation (LIQA) by LIO membership body NAVCA.
After submitting an extensive application, and an independent assessment which included interviews with local clients and partners, it was found that VAST had exceeded almost every requirement to receive the award, with assessors commenting that all those interviewed were “very positive about the leadership and representation provided by VAST.”
Within the application, VAST highlighted their numerous support services for local charities, CICs, social enterprises, voluntary organisations, and community groups, as well as demonstrating their work through strong relationships with public and health sector partners such as Stoke-on-Trent City Council and Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Integrated Care System (ICS).
When looking at the supporting evidence submitted in VAST’s application and the interviews conducted, the independent assessor appointed by NAVCA said that VAST had clearly showed how the charity had “used their role as an independent and trusted organisation to facilitate change.”
“VAST has displayed the ability to challenge the status quo to bring about improvements,” they said in their report. “It has done this in a sustainable way (across the organisation) and has won respect from all sides.”
“VAST is also very mindful of the financial challenges facing many organisations and they have a very strong offering of practical support, advice and training in this area.”
Subsequently, it was thoroughly recommended that the LIQA should be awarded to VAST in recognition of the work associated with the ‘Four Functions of Local Infrastructure.’
Following the successful completion of LIQA, VAST Chief Executive Lisa Healings said: “We are beyond thrilled to have received this award. Not only does it show our commitment to supporting and developing the local voluntary sector, but it also demonstrates the hard work and incredible dedication of all members of staff and volunteers within VAST.”
“VAST has been supporting communities in Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire for over 100 years. We are very much looking forward to continuing our work with our members, clients, and partners, and continuing to work towards our mission of developing a thriving VCSE sector to improve the quality of life for local communities.”
To find out more about VAST and it’s work within the local voluntary sector, please click here.
