I have worked in and around the voluntary and community sector in the South West (particularly Devon) for over 30 years.  In that time, I have seen the sector grow, change, develop and circle back around depending on the political environment, funding environment and the current ‘buzz’.   

The frustrating thing, is watching tried and tested ideas being toted as new and shiny… and then ignoring the past learning and iterations of the same work.   

For example, the new VCSE Covenant coming from the government (somewhat akin to the VCSE Compact under the last Labour government); and the health service’s conversations around prevention.   

I am also seeing more conversations around ‘community development’ and including the voices of people with lived experience.  I am a big fan of both of these approaches – but why is the learning from the past not being utilised.  Why are the people who’ve done this work for years, not being included and listened to, when designing the processes and identifying good practice?  So much wisdom and learning is lost.  In an age where information is everywhere it seems that information in terms of people with experience, wisdom and expertise is not being sought out or utilised. 

How can we do this better?  How can we make sure that the learning already available is included in new projects and approaches?