This quarter our Learning Network, the community for our delivery partners to share learning, met to discuss issues we will be exploring in more detail in our learning events – how to define co-production and community assets, based on how they have been working, and examining how they can help to affect systems change through their work.

The consensus was that through being part of Connect Hackney, our delivery partners felt they had gained confidence, skills and connections to be able to represent, reflect and magnify the needs of the communities they serve; they feel more able to influence policymakers and bring valuable insight to the table to affect real change.

Furthermore, policymakers and funders benefit from the experience and wisdom from our delivery partners who are better placed to capture this learning based on their delivery experience.

This is reflected by the fact that some of our projects that have not had continuation funding have opted to remain a part of the Learning network.

Sharon from RNID tells us: “It is good to hear the offer to still be involved in Connect Hackney’s Learning Network Meetings. I have really found the meetings and group a great networking and development tool and has contributed to the success of my project. I would love to continue being part of it. I look forward to hearing from you and the other delivery partners.”

The need for networks that connect smaller VCS organisations and groups to each other and that are embedded in the community and best placed to know their needs, as well as connecting them to policy makers and funders, is an important one that has been highlighted clearly here.”