Harriett this week led a County voluntary sector delegation to London to meet with Civic Society Minister Nick Hurd. The West Worcestershire MP organised the meeting to help local volunteers find out more about the Government’s visions to support the sector through deregulation and the Big Society Bank. Eight local representatives attended the meeting which took place in the Cabinet Office in Westminster, London. They represented the Citizens Advice Bureau, Community Action, Malvern Civic Society, Malvern Spa Association, Pershore Town Partnership, Community Action, Home Start, Nora Parsons Day Centre and Community First. Afterwards, Harriett led a group discussion to identify opportunities to build on the Big Society vision for Worcestershire. Harriett said, “The Minister outlined the steps the government is taking to strengthen this sector. In addition to setting up a Big Society Bank, there has been a review of Health and Safety, there will be a review by Lord Hodgson on red tape which will report soon, and the Home Office is reviewing the vetting and barring system, including the CRB checks. He has also published a Green Paper on how we can increase giving.” Harriett added, “The long term vision is excellent. The short term challenges are difficult, given the financial legacy the government has inherited. “In addition to national leadership, I do hope our local councils work closely with the sector to engage and consult as they deal with the 2011/12 budget settlement.”