One recent example:
I.R.I.S were commissioned in 2009 to support Community In Partnership, a charitable organisation set up to support regeneration in Knowle West, an area of high deprivation.
I.R.I .S facilitated local residents and local organisations through meetings and away-days to build up a plan of action. Discussion and decisions on all aspects of planning from aims, objectives, budgets, and what priorities they need to ensure improvements in their area.
Community In Partnership Aims:
To be a politically neutral umbrella group for residents and organisations living and working in the area in order to provide:
o an organisation that can take a lead and make links,
o a central place for information; including meetings and other activities,
o advocacy for the area: without disproportional representing any one area within the boundary, or indeed any aspect of community need. For example ‘Filwood Broadway’, ‘creating employment’,
o a point where residents can have an influence and get involved in improving the area.
• To maintain a focus on the causes and effects of deprivation.
• To minimise duplication of services.
• To be fully involved in initiatives and developments where needed, which will have a direct impact on the area, to ensure the community has an opportunity to influence on plans to enhance the community within the CIP area for example South Bristol Community Hospital in conjunction with the Health Park, plans for the development of South Bristol. To make sure that the community is included in plans and that people making decisions on behalf of residents are accountable.
• To pick up the good work from the Knowle West Development Trust without running groups or organisations.
• Have assets to generate income and reduce dependence on funding e.g. Community Centre.
• To employ a central fundraiser to support organisations delivering services in the area.
