BD_Collective is becoming a Community Benefit Society (CBS). While this change offers a chance to reflect on its achievements and future goals, the focus on collaboration to build a stronger, more connected social sector in the borough remains.
BD_Collective is a values-driven movement. Over the last five years, it brought the social sector of Barking and Dagenham together to improve collaboration and services for residents. In that time, we learnt that the Collective needs governance and structure to enable the sector to engage with it.
A Community Benefit Society (the legal name for a community-led membership organisation) is a great structure for collaboration and equality between members because they operate on a ‘one-member, one-vote’ principle.
Jenny Fribbins, a familiar face to the Collective, who remains involved during this transitionary period said:
The values of power-sharing, accountability, connection and trust that have always underpinned BD_Collective remain at the heart of what we plan to do. We’re excited about the opportunity for everyone to shape the Collective’s future so please keep in touch – our door’s always open.
Help us Shape the Borough’s Social Infrastructure
The transition phase allows everyone who has been a part of the Collective up until now to reflect on the lessons learned and get involved in the evolution to a CBS.
Following a series of workshops during the proposal phase, we’re inviting organisations in the borough to complete a survey to help us understand current challenges and aspirations for what a successful CBS could achieve for local groups and communities.
Almost all the questions are multiple choice. We estimate that it will take about 25 – 30 minutes of your time to read through and answer each question.
We know this is a big ask, but the data will be shared openly and will guide the new Development Lead.
This is your opportunity to shape the future of the BD_Collective and the borough’s wider social infrastructure.
A Development Lead for the Social Infrastructure Contract
Recruitment for a Development Lead has now closed. The new role is pivotal in creating the capacity to build the CBS over the next 18 months. The post holder will want to meet everyone who is interested in the future of BD_Collective.
If you’re interested in learning more about the transition, getting involved in the CBS, or scheduling an introduction with the new Development Lead please get in touch.
Jenny Fribbins: jenny@bdcollective.co.uk
Nicki Lane: nicki@bdgiving.org.uk
