There is no 'one size fits all' model for regional partnership forums but there are commonalities.
Delegates at the regional event held in January agreed that we should learn from each other; picking and choosing good practice to improve our own forums as appropriate.
Following the SPF visits to all but one regional SPF throughout 2009 the SPF chairs were able to share their experience of what effective forums share in terms of their processes and behaviours. Participants found this a useful guide and it is now available as a quick audit tool here.
We have summarised the recommendations for delivering a successful regional SPF suggested by colleagues at the event; where possible we have included examples of good practice and practical top tips.
We asked “What does a model regional SPF look like?” and in particular:
- What do you/could you do to ensure real and early engagement?
- How do you/could you ensure the right membership and attendance at your forum?
- What do you/could you do to encourage partnership behaviours - building trust, transparency, openness and honesty?
- How do you ensure that you jointly agree strategic agendas for meetings?
- What could the national SPF do to better communicate with the regional SPFs? What could the regional forums do to better communicate with the national forum, local forums and each other?
- What do you do to continually improve and develop your forums to ensure it is fit for purpose?
- What one thing does your forum need to address do in order to deliver the challenges ahead?