The C3Partnership
Social Enterprise Works performed an active role in the C3Partnership , a three year, Equal (ESF) funded programme to develop an approach to performance improvement that is time efficient, flexible and responds to the diverse needs of third sector organisations. The programme ended in December 2007 and we are now taking forward the outcomes of this project through trainig for advisers and use of the tools with clients.
The main outcome of the C3partnership is the C3Perform toolkit, a set of self-assessment and action planning tools that aim to provide an entry point to help third sector organisations get started on a journey of performance improvement.
The C3Perform approach is based on a well respected and widely used performance improvement system called the Business Excellence Model but is tailored to meet the needs of third sector organisations. It is holistic, flexible and time efficient. It is designed to help organisations prepare for quality standards and gather evidence to help demonstrate performance to stakeholders.
The tools have been trialled with almost 60 third sector organisations, including social enterprises, voluntary organisations and co-operatives.
Here’s some of the feedback from organisations who have used the C3perform approach to improve performance.
- ‘I am now confident that we are giving good customer service. I could not have said this 18 months ago.’ Bristol Community Transport
- ‘I can only describe the process as being like when some one gives you a tonic promising you huge benefits. The tonic initially tastes a little bitter but in a very short time you start seeing changes and feeling great!’’ Nilaari
- ‘The process has enabled us to improved relationships and team-working. Roles are now clearer. We understand and respect each others strengths and expertise and consequently now provide more appropriate support to clients.’ One Stop Job Shop
- ‘All staff and management committee have learnt a wide range of new terms and concepts and have a better understanding of strategic management and improvement issues.’ WISH
Social Enterprise Works now uses the tools as a core part of our business support services. We offer support to members to use the tools and deliver training to advisers working with third sector organisations to introduce the tools and learning.
See the C3Partnership web-site for more information www.c3partnership.org
