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Today, the Government is announcing £1.5 million to support third sector regional networks in delivering many of the Government's policies and programmes at the regional level. The Office of the Third Sector will provide £1million over two years, whilst Capacitybuilders has identified a further £500,000 for 2009-10.

Regional networks help ensure that the voice of local third sector organisations shapes regional policy and strategy, and provide a channel of communication between regional bodies and frontline community groups. The Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) networks have a particular role in ensuring their communities' voices are heard, tackling discrimination and building strong relationships between communities.

Kevin Brennan, Minister for the Third Sector said,

"I am delighted to announce this continued support by the Government for regional networks, this is in recognition of the important role third sector organisations play in delivering and also influencing Government policy. It is vital during a time of economic uncertainty that we continue to support and develop third sector organisations. Today's announcement is a great example of how committed the Government is to supporting the sector."

Since 1999, the Government has supported third sector networks in each region. Currently funding is delivered through the Regional Infrastructure Programme, established in 2005 for three years. From April 2009 Capacitybuilders will be delivering the fund. Over the coming months they will work with the networks and other stakeholders to shape the investment for the next year.

Channelling the new funding through Capacitybuilders will streamline funding distributed to third sector support providers. Capacitybuilders has an existing relationship with many of the networks and a strong understanding of the environment in which they work. Capacitybuilders will issue a further announcement later this financial year to update on progress

The Office of the Third Sector is part of the Cabinet Office that deals with Government policy on charities, voluntary organisations and social enterprise. More information can be found at http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/third_sector

http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk

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