Third sector event thrives

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Organisers of the second Thrive Third Sector conference have hailed the event a massive success.

Almost 100 representatives from the charity and third sector travelled to the Royal Cornwall Showground near Wadebridge for the event dedicated to ‘Resilience, Risk and Reputation’.

Chairman of the Charity Commission, William Shawcross CVO, gave an honest keynote speech that not only looked at the sector itself but also emphasised the role of the commission as regulator and not champion of charities.

He outlined how the commission, while remaining independent, was to become funded by the charity sector itself and not by the tax-payer.

When questioned about how successful ‘self-regulation’ would be, Shawcross said his job was to ensure it was successful and impartial.

The event was organised by MPAD, Mackerel Sky Events and CIPR South West, in partnership with Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust, Institute of Fundraising South West and Rapid Relief Team.

Speaking after the event, CIPR South West Cornwall co-ordinator, Nigel Barker, said: “We are very grateful to William and to all of our speakers. This has been a truly no holds-barred event.

“The sessions have challenged perceptions, sparked ideas and more importantly created a dialogue that I believe will carry the sector forward.

“We have examined reputation management, the future of fundraising, sector regulation, ethics and above all why the sector should be proud of the work that it does at a time where it is under constant scrutiny from the media.”