A NEW umbrella group is being set up representing all charities and voluntary organisations in London’s deprived East End. The aims are to ensure their voice is heard in forums and strategic boards and to offer affordable support’ services

A NEW umbrella group is being set up representing all charities and voluntary organisations in London’s deprived East End.

The aims of the new Council for Voluntary Services are to ensure their voice is heard in forums and strategic boards and offer affordable support’ services.

A temporary board is launching the council under its interim chairman Shaynul Khan, who said: “We are setting up a strong, independent organisation to cater for the needs of the Third Sector and be accessible to all sections of our community.”

The interim board is recruiting staff and establishing a service’ agreement with the Town Hall. An annual general meeting is planned within 18 to establish a permanent management board.

The fledgling organisation is being backed by Tower Hamlets council which has dished out a start up’ fund to pay for the launch.