By D Wilcox.Development trusts and similar partnerships have been an essential component of urban and rural regeneration programmes and the guide centres on the importance of effective partnership working in the development of a trust. It is intended for anyone interested in how towns, cities and villages may be regenerated through the involvement of those with the greatest stake in their future – the people who live and work there. It includes examples of requirements for levels of community participation, active engagement, board meetings, financial sustainability, project management, checklists for milestones, resources and the competencies of those involved. The guidelines may be used by those in public, private, voluntary and community sectors as a generic tool for considering the development of partnerships and development trusts.

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The interests of all water and sewerage customers need to be considered when the opportunity to benefit from competition in the water industry is opened to large commercial and other non-household customers, according to WaterVoice, which represents customers across England and Wales.In its response to a consultation by Ofwat, DEFRA and the Welsh Assembly Government, WaterVoice said it wanted to see the new competition regime deliver reduced charges and better service packages to the estimated 2,300 non-household customers in the competitive market, but also ultimately to produce more efficient operations, lower charges and improved services for all customers.

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A third of parents of Down’s syndrome children say they have experienced discrimination or prejudice from education professionals and more than half reported a lack of specialist knowledge and skills among professionals. The figures come from research published today to mark next week’s launch of Down’s Syndrome Awareness Week.The report from the Down’s Syndrome Association reveals the discrimination, ignorance and the failings of Local Education Authorities and schools to make appropriate provision and support for children with Down’s syndrome.

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