A country-wide initiative, to deliver mutual benefits from closer, more productive partnerships between community groups, charities etc and the statutory or public authorities.

How did COMPACT come about?

Government launched a national compact in 1998 and required all public authorities to develop their own in 2004. In Fareham, the process has been very constructive. It has been developed using open meetings and working groups which enabled a Fareham COMPACT to be launched in November 2004

Prevention of problems and measuring better understanding is always difficult to assess. Earlier consultation on important community decisions; improved understanding of - and access to funding; better application of combined experience and good practice will result in better value-for-money, better “job” satisfaction and so help grow community spirit.

Costs of setting up and administering the COMPACT are paid for by Fareham and Hampshire Councils. Additionally, many individuals from voluntary groups are contributing time.