One of the strategic aims of CVS is represent the views of the voluntary and community sector in Mid & North Bedfordshire.

Therefore CVS strives to work in partnership with other voluntary groups, statutory authorities and local businesses, with the ultimate aim of improving the quality of life for everyone.

Below are some of the fora in which CVS are involved:

The Chief Officers Network - This is an informal meeting for the senior officers of locally based voluntary organsiations in North Bedfordshire.

Bedford Workers Forum - brings together organisations, workers (both paid and voluntary), and partners that work to develop the Borough of Bedford & provides a networking opportunity for organisations and workers, so that projects projects can be developed together.

Tackling Poverty Together in Bedfordshire Group - is an informal multi-agency group focused on tackling poverty together through information exchange, group support, advice and joint action (e.g. conference & research) on poverty. CVS is a member of the steering group of this forum.

Bedfordshire Funding Network - aims to maintain an information sharing network in Bedfordshire and Luton in order to assist community and voluntary sector organisations and the Local Authorities to successfully access funding

A Credit Union for North Central Bedfordshire - A group of organisations (including CVS) in what was known as Mid Bedfordshire have worked towards getting provision by the local credit union (namely Bedford Credit Union) across that district so residents have better access to affordable financial services. 

Local Strategic Partnerships in Bedfordshire - as from 1st April 2009 the existing LSP's become Central Bedfordshire LSP and Bedford Partnership Board. CVS are amongst partners representing the local Third Sector on these partnerships.

Local Area Agreements in Bedfordshire - as from 1st April 2009 the existing LAA's become Central Bedfordshire LAA and Bedford LAA. CVS are amongst partners representing the local Third Sector in formulating the agreements.

The Bedfordshire and Luton Compact - is a working document aimed at developing a close, efficient and more effective equal working partnership between local voluntary and community organisations and statutory agencies? CVS is a member of the steering group and should be your first port of call for more information or details of how you can become a signatory or if your group is in conflict with a local authority.