Our New Accreditation and for High-Quality Voluntary Sector Support
Praised for our ability to “challenge the status quo to bring about improvements,” our leadership and representation has led to national recognition.
We have been awarded the Local Infrastructure Quality Accreditation (LIQA) by LIO membership body NAVCA.
After submitting an extensive application, and undergoing an independent assessment which included interviews with our local clients and partners, we found out that we had exceeded almost every requirement to receive the award, with assessors commenting that all those interviewed were “very positive about the leadership and representation provided by VAST.”
Within the application, we highlighted our numerous support services for local charities, CICs, social enterprises, voluntary organisations, and community groups, as well as demonstrating our work through strong relationships with public and health sector partners such as Stoke-on-Trent City Council and Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Integrated Care System (ICS).
When looking at the supporting evidence submitted in our application and the interviews that were held, the independent assessor appointed by NAVCA said that we had clearly showed how we’d used our role as an “independent and trusted” organisation to “facilitate change.”
Subsequently, it was thoroughly recommended that the LIQA should be awarded to VAST in recognition of the work associated with the ‘Four Functions of Local Infrastructure.’
Following the successful completion of LIQA, VAST Chief Executive Lisa Healings said:
“We are beyond thrilled to have received this award. Not only does it show our commitment to supporting and developing the local voluntary sector, but it also demonstrates the hard work and incredible dedication of all members of staff and volunteers within VAST.”
“VAST has been supporting communities in Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire for over 100 years,” Lisa continued, “we are very much looking forward to continuing our work with our members, clients, and partners, and continuing to work towards our mission of developing a thriving VCSE sector to improve the quality of life for local communities.”
