This briefing offers an opportunity for the Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise sector in Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset and South Gloucestershire to meet together, to share views and concerns, and to debate and discuss the consultation launched by the Secretary of State and the three councils for the creation of a new Mayoral Combined Authority.

It is important that the sector be both strategically engaged and well informed of the implications of this consultation, in addition to being ready to respond to the opportunities that will be created by this new entity for delivery and engagement on behalf of the communities and individuals we represent and work with.

The Devolution Deal refers to our sector in relation to co-production of the new National Work and Health Programme and we must be ready to respond to this proposal. It is likely that the sector will also have a role in other elements of the current proposal as well as any future phases.

This is a key opportunity to meet senior Elected Members, Council Officers and sector colleagues and to understand the wider and strategic issues, and to share the prospects for this new way of working and delivering across the area.

Speakers include Councillor Helen Holland (Bristol City Council),  Councillor Matthew Riddle (South Gloucestershire Council), Councillor Tim Warren (Bath and North East Somerset Council).