‘The third sector makes a vital contribution to strong and cohesive communities and should be a key and respected partner of the local authority and other local public bodies and the private sector. The third sector is particularly important in ensuring that the voices of the most excluded people are heard.’ Principles of representation: A framework for effective third sector participation in Local Strategic Partnerships. Department for Communities & Local Government.

The Government expect the third sector to be able to get actively involved in local decision making and partnership working as quotes like that above make very clear. The central mechanism for achieving this is through the Tameside Strategic Partnership (TSP). T3SC facilitates Voice, the network of networks, bringing together local third sector groups and organisations which elects representatives onto the TSP. In addition the thematic networks that T3SC support elect representatives to the thematic partnership meetings that take place in the TSP. This provides many opportunities for moving from consultation to true engagement.

The Cross Sector Policy Group (also in the past called the Compact Group) oversees this engagement and is co-chaired by T3SC. As well as the network engagement mentioned above T3SC also invest in and support work with partners through meetings such as the Community Development Workers Lunch and hosting the Tameside Community Transport Meeting.