Last week, I delivered a half-day training session on partnership working for NCVO members. Most of the participants were small charities exploring formal partnerships for the first time.

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Their motivations were familiar across the VCSE sector: achieving goals more effectively, increasing impact, sharing resources, avoiding duplication, and improving processes.

The highlight of the session was hearing from Angela Russell of Unity Matters CIC, who shared her experience of being part of the First 5 Lambeth early years consortium. I supported First 5 during its early development as an NCVO consultant, so it was fantastic to hear how the consortium has flourished.

Angela’s story captured both the rewards and the realities of partnership working. She described the experience as hugely positive — but also hard work. Trust takes time to build, and that often involves difficult conversations about shared priorities, and when to collaborate or compete.

One of First 5’s strengths is its rotating lead partner model. When a grant or contract opportunity arises, partners discuss it openly, decide whether to pursue it individually or collaboratively, and agree who should lead. This relies on strong relationships, honest dialogue and a shared strategy.

A few years ago, Emma Baylin and I identified five key success factors for effective partnership working:

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• Building relationships

• Shared vision and values

• Clear principles for joint working

• Investment and resources

• Leadership

Although we developed this framework in the context of emerging VCSE alliances, it applies far more widely. Angela’s reflections showed how early investment in relationships, vision and values laid firm foundations for First 5’s success.

Next week, I’m excited to launch my new consultancy, Shared Purpose — bringing together decades of experience to support organisations with strategic partnerships, charity governance and qualitative research.

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