Interviews with stakeholders to develop the Federation’s Strategic Plan

In order to develop the Federation’s Strategic Plan and to respond to the needs of SenioriNET members, stakeholder interviews were conducted and a series of questionnaires were administered to member organisations.

These are the most relevant findings. (part 1)

The Federation must be built on strong collaborative principles and individual contribution.

The needs of member organisations are different (depending on their size) – from personalised support at local level to representation and advocacy.

“Some need breadth. Their need is for someone to spend time with ministries. The small ones need support for very pragmatic things – how to get accredited and reaccredited, how to do their licensing file, how to meet the quality standard (…); or a negotiator with the local authority.”

Each member organisation’s older member/beneficiary base can be a strong research and representational resource at national level; very high potential for visibility at local, central, county and federation level but also on older people’s issues.

The majority of respondents highlighted the need for credible research and needs assessment at local community level;

“Research helps you identify topics you want to work on – what will be your #1 priority for the next year? Narrow down one priority and a set of key advocacy messages.”