Challenging poverty and disadvantage: a celebration of voluntary and community activity in the South West South West Forum's Annual Conference and AGM 4pm - 4pm, 5th and 6th November 2007, Truro, Cornwall This conference gave South West voluntary and community organisations a prime opportunity to demonstrate, showcase and share their collective contribution in tackling the causes and effects of poverty and disadvantage throughout the region.

Conference success!

This year's annual conference in Truro was a great success. This is the first time we have taken the event to Cornwall and made it residential - and the feedback has been very positive. Participants have told us "it was a great opportunity to hear some really inspirational stories…", "I learnt a lot about voluntary sector priorities and concerns." "It helped provoke and inspire a wide ranging set of conversations across health, housing, people's development…", "Top notch, I'm so glad I attended over both days….so yes do it again", "It really helped with networking and deeper conversations". So look out for advance notice of the 2008 Conference early in the new year.

At the Truro Conference we flagged the idea of establishing a coalition of organisations to take a strategic approach to reducing poverty in the region. This idea gained a lot of support and we will be getting discussions under way in January. If you would like to contribute to the debate do please get in touch.

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'State of the South West 2008'is available online and in hard copy via www.swo.org.uk. South West Forum contributed a significant amount of data which is distributed through the relevent sections of this report. Our submission focuses on the contribution of 'social purpose' organisations to the South West economy and quality of life. You can download a copy of our submission in its entirety here (135KB PDF)

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Following extended research, drafting and consultation, SWF's "manifesto" for the sector is complete. This document provides a clear statement of the most important actions required at regional level to ensure a vibrant, effective and independent voluntary and community sector in the South West.

Download Investing for Inclusion
Link to New Start Hot News coverage of Investing for Inclusion, 14th June 2007

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Get in touch with South West Forum Unit 6, Cranmere Court Lustleigh Close Matford Business Park Exeter EX2 8PW Tel 01392 823758 Fax 01392 823033 Email admin@southwestforum.org.uk Directions: link to map, nearest major train station is Exeter St Davids. South West Forum is a registered charity, no. 1102082 and a Company Limited by Guarantee, no. 4978095.

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