Once they have a list of approximately 15 people or projects the researchers will start to get in touch with them, explaining exactly what a network is and the ways in which we can benefit from working together. If people are interested then the researchers visit them in person to talk about what their project is doing, including detailed information about what needs they are targeting and which children they are reaching.

Inspiring people

The research is first compiled into a simple directory, providing a valuable source of information for the local community. It also offers a glimpse of the bigger picture, helping to highlight problem areas or needs that are not being addressed. However, a directory by itself will not do the work: people must be inspired by the purpose of the research and be willing to work together. That inspiration and willingness is the beginning of a city-wide network.

Read more about how we work in our 'Together for children' booklet.

Network activities can range from organising city-wide events and holding joint training sessions, right through to lobbying governments and devising innovative new programmes. Every network is assigned a Viva Consultant, who works with them to look for new ways of finding funding, ensures member projects are well-equipped and supports and guides them as they develop new ideas.

Why networks help children

In cities all over the world there are projects doing great work for children at risk, but a lack of money, people and time means there is a limit to what they can achieve alone. Some organisations have lots of professional training and expertise, and easy access to funding; some have great knowledge of their local area and strong relationships within the community; and others have influential contacts with the power to campaign and advocate on behalf of children. When we combine those strengths we have more chance of seeing children lifted out of poverty and vulnerability for good, as together we can bring change that affects whole communities, cities and countries.

The prayer, mentoring and discipleship that churches bring to organisations in the network are also vital. In return, the organisational structures found within the network provide a secure and high-quality way of actually delivering the work, which churches sometimes lack. Working together, both local churches and local projects are better able to effect change at local and national levels.

How we get them involved

Over many years we have developed various tools to inspire local churches to engage with the needs of children and enable them to respond practically. Parts of Viva Locate can be adapted to churches, helping them conduct basic needs assessments in their communities; our Understanding God's Heart for Children material teaches pastors about the biblical basis for helping children at risk; the Viva Equip courses train church workers to give children the best possible care; and we take whole congregations through our Child-Friendly Church programme, helping them make their church an encouraging and empowering place for children.

The second develops whole organisations, helping them build strong foundations and set clear goals as they seek to care for children both now and long into the future. Both programmes help ensure that children are looked after by confident, caring and capable people.

How it works

Through interactive workshops and on-the-job mentoring people are helped to reflect on their work, identify problem areas and introduce improvements. Working together with their peers from other projects, they are carefully guided by both international and local trainers to develop new ways of working that are professional, effective and relevant to their local context. Topics differ slightly across the two programmes and range from child wellbeing and effective trauma counselling to staff care, governance and financial accountability. At the end of every course each person is not only better equipped to provide quality care for children, but is also committed to working together with others in their area to do so.

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