A NATIONAL charity that aims to bring about community transformation is holding a launch event in York.

Redeeming Our Communities (ROC) is hosting a 'conversation' evening at Archbishop Holgate's CE Academy on Thursday, March 3.

ROC looks to meet social needs by creating strategic partnerships between statutory agencies, voluntary groups and churches.

Redeeming Our Communities Conversation - York will see representatives from the police, fire service, local council and churches among others discuss ways of working together for the good of the community.

ROC will showcase projects it has run elsewhere in the country and explore whether there is interest for similar initiatives in the York area.

The charity's founder and national director Debra Green OBE said schemes could tackle subjects such as mental health and loneliness.

She said: "We're a national charity that's 11 years old. We've held about 150 of these community consultations.

"We were thrilled to receive support from the George A Moore Trust Fund and then church group One Voice York said they would be interested in supporting something in the city.

"We tend to go by invitation really, rather than trying to get something going everywhere."

After the event, ROC will draw up reports for all those who attend, suggesting what the next steps could be.

"That tends to stop it from just being a talking shop," said Mrs Green.

"I think that is one of the reasons why we have been a little bit successful. We don't just let it be a discussion, you get something out of it."

North Yorkshire Police is among the agencies backing the event.

Superintendent Adam Thomson, of York police, said: "York is a popular city that attracts people from all over the world because of its history, vibrancy and opportunity.

"ROC will allow these diverse groups to share their views on how we can develop a more linked society and not just working in spite of them.”

Mrs Green added: "Neil Collin, our North East project development manager, had a very good meeting with some of the local agencies, who were all really excited. Because of Government funding cuts, something like ROC is really needed.

"So far we have had an excellent response. It's all coming together well.

"Everybody is welcome to come. The school can take up to 250 people.

"We would love to have 200, but if there's anything above 100, we'll have a very successful event."

For more information, visit www.roc.uk.com/york, call 0161 393 4511 or email info@roc.uk.com