The Third Sector Policy Officer Network (PON) is an informal network of over 170 voluntary sector workers across Scotland whose work includes policy. Some are full time policy or parliamentary officers, others include policy in a broader work remit. The main functions of the network are information exchange and peer support. 

We meet approximately every two months and keep in touch via email between meetings. We also hold an annual conference / seminar day and occasional training sessions. The bi-monthly meetings are chaired by volunteers from the network, and secretarial support is provided by SCVO. Around ten to twenty members will generally attend a meeting and full notes of the meetings are provided to all members.

The network also plays a role in monitoring the Parliament to ensure the access agenda is being followed according to the CSG principles. The Network has taken a variety of steps as a cohesive group, such as formulating responses to consultations on lobbying and on the application of the principles of the Consultative Steering Group, and will frequently contribute to SCVO responses on parliamentary matters - eg the Public Petitions Committee consultation on the petitions process.

If you would like to join the network, come to the conference, or have any queries, or ideas for future agenda items please contact: Jill Flye, Policy Officer, SCVO

email: Jill.flye@scvo.org.uk

Direct Dial: 0131 474 6157