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Our inclusive membership and structure:
Preston Community Network is a fully inclusive association of voluntary and community sector (VCS) organisations working in Preston. Our members vary - from large charities with a national profile (eg Age Concern) to small community groups representing a small BME community or the residents of just a few streets.

The Community Network’s philosophy:

• the local voluntary and community sector plays a significant role in society as representatives of particular, often marginalised, sections of the community, and as service providers.
• the local voluntary sector has unique knowledge and experience rooted in the local community and its involvement in local decision-making is vital for the success of local initiatives
• local people know best what the priorities and needs of their neighbourhood are and they must have the opportunity to be involved in the planning and delivery of local services and shaping the future of their city
• the empowerment, involvement and participation of all sections of the local community is the way forward for successful regeneration and development of Preston.
• a commitment to equal opportunities, equal access, embracing diversity and community cohesion is fundamental to the ethos of the Community Network

How we work:

Preston Community Network ensures a strong voice for the VCS on Preston Strategic Partnership, its thematic working groups (including the People and Communities TWG, the Children’s Trust and the Older Peoples Partnership Board) We organise representation through elections and ‘matching’ VCS people with the right opportunities to ensure maximum influence for their organisation or community. We also facilitate wider accountability and information throughout the sector via events, focus groups, consultations and forums.

IF YOU WANT TO JOIN THE COMMUNITY NETWORK PLEASE EMAIL Waheda@prestoncn.org