Case studies for VCSEs

Your Voice Counts

Your Voice Counts (YVC) is a charity based in Tyne & Wear dedicated to supporting individuals with learning disabilities, those facing mental health challenges, people with dementia, and individuals assessed as lacking the capacity to make their own decisions. Through its advocacy and support services, YVC plays a crucial role in enhancing the lives of some of the most vulnerable members of the community.

Government Contracts and Impact

During and after completing the DCMS funded Contract Readiness programme run by The School for Social Entrepreneurs in partnership with Social Enterprise UK and Voice 4 Change England, a course aimed at enhancing contract readiness for the voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector, YVC applied for three government contracts. Despite not winning two of these contracts, the organisation was notably close, finishing as the second-highest bidder for one. Success came with the third and most recent tender, which was pivotal for YVC. This contract allowed YVC to retain its Newcastle Advocacy service, ensuring continued support for those in need. This win not only secured the organisation’s operations but also strengthened its capacity to serve the community effectively.

Challenges in the Contracting Process

The journey through the contracting process was fraught with challenges. YVC faced significant strain due to multiple contracts landing simultaneously, stretching their limited capacity. Staff worked extra hours, including evenings and weekends, to manage the workload. Bidding for contracts in a new Local Authority area, where YVC lacked established relationships and a local track record, further complicated the process. The absence of local references and connections made it challenging to strengthen their bid and compete effectively.

The Contract Readiness “Wins” Programme

The Contract Readiness “Wins” Programme proved to be transformative for YVC. It enabled the identification of effective contract win strategies, which informed the organisation’s new funding strategy and growth plan. The programme deepened YVC’s understanding of social value in the tendering process and equipped the team with essential skills. One of the practical outcomes was the development of a Bid Library. “I was able to increase my understanding of social value in the tendering process and the programme equipped me with skills that I am now putting into practice to help prepare for future tenders” says Alex.

Overcoming Challenges Through the Programme

The programme provided a platform for YVC to learn from other organisations and social entrepreneurs about their challenges and successes. “Learning from the programme helped me to apply a much more critical approach to our tender content – in particular, ensuring that we consistently articulate the added value that our organisation brings above and beyond contract specifications.” Peer learning was instrumental in applying a more critical approach to their tender content. These insights have been pivotal in refining their bids and increasing their competitiveness in the tendering process.

Organisational Growth and Achievements

Since starting the programme, YVC has experienced significant growth and success. “Our key successes since starting the programme have been securing a 5-year grant worth £400,000, providing financial stability and enabling long-term planning. We have won a £337,000 per year contract for three years with the Newcastle Local Authority, ensuring sustained support for their advocacy services and we have entered into partnerships with two other organisations to deliver a new Local Authority contract, expanding their reach and impact.”

Conclusion

The Contract Readiness Wins Programme has been a cornerstone in YVC’s recent achievements. It has not only helped the organisation secure vital contracts and funding but also equipped them with the knowledge and strategies needed for sustainable growth. Through perseverance and strategic development, Your Voice Counts continues to make a profound difference in the lives of those it serves.

yvc.org.uk