Partnership development process
We developed a model of mutual support that strengthened both us and the organisations we work with. Crucially, we started by understanding each other’s agenda and generating programmes with shared priorities. We had many things in common. We all recognised the vital role of family, the value of education and learning, and the importance of a safe place to sleep, live and learn.
We knew that children need sufficient nutritious food and that both their physical and mental health and wellbeing are important if they were to thrive. With many essential services out of reach without formal proof of identity, like a birth certificate, we recognised the importance of children’s identity and a positive place in society. All of these areas need to sit within systems and policies that recognise the values and rights of all children.
We also recognised that, to deliver best for children, our own organisations needed to be strong.
Working across several areas of collaboration, we built alliances that were well placed to meet the needs and aspirations of the children we worked with, at the same time as meeting high quality standards of governance, accountability and management.