Your County - Putting Kent First

Kent 4 star Council

The Kent Compact

Why Kent needs a Compact

Compacts recognise that voluntary and community activity is fundamental to the development of a democratic, socially inclusive society. Voluntary and community groups, as independent, not-for-profit organisations, bring distinctive value to society and fulfil a role that is distinct from both the state and the market.

The voluntary and community sector (VCS) often supports those who otherwise have no voice and in doing so it promotes both equality and diversity.

We recognise that these attributes are a major benefit to society and, as a local council, we can play a positive role both in promoting volunteering and in supporting the work of voluntary and community organisations.

Aims and Objectives:

The Kent Compact aims to:

  • improve mutual understanding, trust and communication between the voluntary and community sector in Kent and Kent County Council
  • facilitate an effective partnership between the two sectors
  • set a framework for effective consultation, representation and partnership including an agreement on definitions, shared values and joint and distinct undertakings
  • improve funding relationships and increase Kent's share of external funding
  • improve outcomes for the people of Kent
  • act as a framework for action, the regular review of which will provide a process for monitoring and evaluating the quality of relationships and partnership working at all levels

Kent Compact Codes of Practice

Kent County Council has its own codes of good practice that focus on specific areas and serve as a framework for action on them.

Local areas are now also producing their own district Compacts and codes of practice to better reflect local priorities. In the same spirit, Kent County Council is preparing its own codes of good practice that will focus on specific areas and serve as a framework for action on them.

Copyright Kent County Council 2008