Family Resource Centre National Forum 2011 Election Awareness Raising Initiative

To grow awareness of all candidates, but particularly those likely to be returned who don’t have knowledge of their local FRC and the national programme. To secure political commitments – from across the board – for continued exchequer funding of the FRC programme, especially over the period of the recession. To secure high level political support – from the main political parties – for the continuation of the FSA as the vehicle for delivery of the FRC programme. Objectives

The Initiative will comprise two strands: National political communications by the FRCNF to (1) seek continued support for the programme and to (2) seek continued support for the FSA. Local awareness by all FRCs – who wish to engage in the initiative – to promote familiarity of the programme and secure support for its continued funding. Structure of Initiative

Elements of National Initiative

Letter to be drafted making the case for (1) continued support for FRC programme (2) continuation of the FSA as the vehicle for its delivery. Include requirement for a response so that this can be communicated pre-election to FRCs. Issue letter to party Leaders / policy staff of each political party. Undertake a new round of political communications during negotiation of the programme for government. National Initiative

Elements of Local Initiative

FRC Open Day (week 14 – 19 February): all candidates will be invited to attend their local FRC on a designated morning to be briefed on (1) services / activities (2) value-for money proposition (3) imperative for continued funding. Local Media : a press notice, release and photos will be incorporated into the open day event. Candidate Pledge: seeking all candidates to state their continued budget and policy support for the FRC programme. This will involve a web-wall to display signatories. Door Step Question: encourage clients to ask candidates if they will support continued exchequer-funding for their local FRC. Actions

Structure

DHR Communications to prepare an ‘election pack’ for each FRC – All FRCs will have by close of business Monday. FRCs in each constituency to identify their constituency coordinator immediately – to DHR Communications – in conjunction with FRCNF Chair/s – to draft letter for national political communications. Regional Reps and DHR Communications to act as key contact throughout initiative. List of actions and roles

QUESTIONS? General Election 2011