Devolution and the establishment of OSCR have significantly altered the nature of governance in third sector organisations that campaign or provide services across the borders of the nations in the UK. Problems and dilemmas about powers, the delegation of authority and appropriate structures are widespread – and sometimes have been very public. Yet there are also organisations that have clarified the key issues and agreed on the principles for both expectations and practice.

 Who is the Workshop for?

The workshop will be open tochief officers and trustees of third sector organisations as well as key stakeholders in cross-border organisations. 

Workshop Structure

The half-day workshop is designed to explore the issues related to this topic by making connections between findings from recent reports and participants’ own experiences in cross-border organisations.  Participants will be given a brief background paper to read before the workshop and will be asked to offer their insights through small and full group discussions on the day.

The purpose of the Workshop

 (i) to understand and explore the issues associated with governance and working across the borders of the UK,

(ii) to identify ways of managing key issues and problems and

(iii) to form the basis of a publication, or series of articles, to inform and raise awareness amongst public and third sector organisations in Scotland.

This workshop is intended to provide a framework for understanding the fundamental approaches to cross-border working in the third sector.  Participants will have an opportunity to share their experiences of challenges and good practices developed through their work across the UK, and identify where more information and guidance are needed to address the issues and improve practice. 

 Workshop Programme

 12.30 Registration and lunch

 1.00 Welcome and introductions

 1.15 Governance and Cross-border organisations

• Presentations

Shirley Otto (Consultant)

Jane Ryder (Chief Officer, OSCR)

• Discussion in the large group
•  
• Small groups exploring participant’s experience

 2.30 Break

 2.45 Reports from the small groups

• Exploring ideas and approaches to key problems –  in small and large groups

 4.00 Action points and plans

 4.30 Finish

 Costs and Registration

Attendance at this workshop is free of charge, but places are limited and priority will be given to those who work in cross-border organisations.  The advance reading materials will be distributed one week prior to the event.  All attendees are asked to prepare in advance of the workshop so all participants will be able to participate fully and gain full benefit from the event.