| Why is it needed?
Because voluntary sector organisations need to have
a permanent base in a prominent location. Like all organisations,
they require premises and equipment in order to do their
work. The money currently paid to commercial landlords
could be used to further their good work if they had
their own premises. Also, it is easier to plan for the
future when you are not stuck in long leases or liable
to unexpected rent rises.
"More than
just an office building."
By locating several support
agencies in one place, there will be increased opportunities
for working together in partnership. Also, much of the
work of the support agencies involves reaching out to
groups and individuals through publicity, events and
providing advice. All of this will be improved by being
in one location.
A place to find
out about the voluntary sector
For many people, they only
come into contact with the voluntary sector when they
have a particular need. By providing a 'resource centre'
in a popular location groups and individuals will be
made aware about the voluntary sector.
Where will it be
based?
We hope to retain a presence
in the centre of Manchester and are therefore looking
at various options in and around the Northern Quarter.
What will the building
contain?
Our plans for the building
include various resources: a meeting room, a quiet room,
exhibition space. The voluntary sector is renowned for
its flexibility and variety, and we expect the uses
that these rooms are put to to be as varied as the sector
itself. Why don't you tell us what you would use it
for?
How will we pay
for it?
We are currently applying
for grants to make this dream into a reality. However,
whether we are successful or not, we will continue to
push the case for a resource centre. Other cities are
beginning to realise the need for a focal point for
the voluntary sector, and it is important that Manchester
is at the forefront of such developments.
What's special
about the building?
By planning from the outset
to design a building with environmentally friendly features,
the Green Fish Partnership is showing that the voluntary
sector can do things differently. A 'living water' system
will recycle waste, producing water clean enough for
fish to swim in.
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