sporta, which represents more than 100 charitable trusts across the UK, is holding its third Time To Trust symposium to showcase the benefits of the social enterprise model, which is a significant provider of leisure and cultural services, with a proven track record of service improvement, investment and efficiency.

The annual event, which will take place in Central London on Thursday 18th July, is aimed at local authorities and other public bodies considering alternative delivery methods of cultural and leisure services, as well as public health initiatives.

Peter Gunn, Chair of sporta said: "Leisure and cultural trusts are a cost-effective, community-based approach to the delivery of services that enables integration with local strategies and programmes, such as public health, social inclusion, asset renewal and regeneration. As NPDOs our members also provide the added benefit of re-investing any profits into local services, facilities and employment opportunities."

"sporta's third Time to Trust symposium will enable local authorities and other public bodies to hear about the innovative work that is already taking place in communities across the country, and come face to face with the people making that happen so they can develop a clear view of how this delivery method could work in their area - whether setting up a new trust or working with an existing trust. It is also a great opportunity for existing trusts to keep up to date with emerging issues impacting the sector."

Among the speakers will be Martin Guyton, Leisure Contracts Manager at Tonbridge and Malling District Council, which is currently moving to a Trust for delivery of its leisure services, Charlie Wigglesworth, Business Development Director at Social Enterprsie UK and Mark Poppy, Programme Director for Local Partnerships, an HM Treasury and Local Government Association funded body that supports local public bodies through the options appraisal process and implementation of their preferred model of delivery. Other contributors include Iain Varah, CEO of Vision - Redbridge Culture and Leisure and Joanna Bussell, Partner at Winckworth Sherwood solicitors and parliamentary agents, which is hosting the event. The speakers will use real life examples to demonstrate:

- What is involved in setting up a Trust

- What to avoid- New opportunities for the Trust model

- Impact and public benefit- The latest thinking on procurement issues

- Investment potential- Business Rates Relief

- VAT

Brian Leonard, CEO of sporta said: "At a time when resources are scarce, with a greater need for innovative and flexible ways of providing social value, and with a Government committed to transferring the delivery of public services to social enterprises, there is no better time to consider the trust option for the delivery of a range of public services."

The day-long symposium, sponsored by Alliance Leisure, will take place at Winckworth Sherwood solicitors and parliamentary agents in London Bridge. Tickets are priced at £95 for the first delegate and £85 for second delegate, with a discounted rate for sporta, CLOA and CIMSPA members. For further information or to book a space contact Sarah Gilvey at [email protected] or call 01603 814233.