In 2007- 2008 changes undertook research for the Government Equalities Office to produce guidance on models, approaches and resources which can be used to encourage, equip and support women who are currently under represented, to become more active, both formally and informally, in governance structures and other aspects of both civic and civil life.
WRC's groundbreaking new report examines what helps - and what hinders - women's organisations in creating change at a local level.
Most women’s organisations are not engaged in any formal way with their Local Strategic Partnership (LSP). This research by WRC, Urban Forum and Oxfam in 2006 found that only 1.8% of the voluntary and community sector (VCS) representatives on LSPs were women’s organisations – despite making up 7% of the VCS.
Following Where are the Women in LSPs?, case study pilot projects were rolled out in two LSPs, Sunderland and Thurrock; to carry out the recommendations of the research at a local level. These pilot projects demonstrate good practice in advancing the equality of women in LSPs and can be used to make the case to Government for investment in the resources to carry out this process in LSPs nationally.
Oxfam have also produced a paper based on the pilot projects:
Relevant policy briefings and consultations on local issues
WRC have responded to numerous consultations on local government and
local agenda issues and have produced briefings for the women's sector
covering many of these. See below for a link to the government policy
itself as well as useful briefings produced by other organiastions.
- WRC responses to local government issues
- Briefings from WRC and other organisations on the Community Empowerment White Paper - Communities in Control: Real People, Real Power.