VCS organisations discuss Beacon

Organisations from across the region’s Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) were invited to a consultation event to hear their views regarding the proposed Beacon of Light in Sunderland.

The meeting, which took place on Friday 9th October at the Stadium of Light, served to identify community needs and how the Beacon and VCS organisations may be able to work together to meet them.

Over the next few weeks, research will be conducted by Sunderland AFC’s registered charity, Foundation of Light, into developing plans for partnership working though the Beacon of Light, with a database of interested organisations created with information on what type of activities could support the local community.

There is a lot of great work being done by organisations in the Voluntary and Community Sector across Wearside.

The purpose of this consultation is to ensure that the Beacon of Light will enhance this and that even more people can benefit from the range of services out there.

Ken Teears, Foundation of Light Development Director

In September, the Beacon of Light development reached an important milestone when full planning permission was secured from Sunderland City Council, with construction expected to start in Spring 2016.

The unique centre will be the first of its kind in the UK and include engaging and interactive zones in education; health and wellbeing; sport and play; and the world of work and will welcome thousands of children, young people and adults through its doors every week.

If your organisation is interested in working in partnership with the Beacon of Light, or have any comments you would like to make about the development, please download and complete the questionnaire and return to: Melanie Ayre, Foundation of Light, Stadium of Light, Sunderland, SR5 1SU.