Getting to work on a cross-border project
A cross-border partnership should be set up and proceed in the same way as other partnerships. There is no essential difference between a cross-border partnership and other community partnerships.
However, in the context that cross-border partnerships are often initiated without a definite goal in mind, and without a source of funding for the new partnership, the following may be useful:
Once the groups have made initial contact and have agreed to work together, an idea of project to work together on will be devised and agreed. In developing an idea, the following steps may prove useful as a guideline:
1. Hold an information session for your own group to inform them of the cross-border partnership and discuss the group’s expectations and fear. Identify ideas and projects the group would be interested in.
2. A joint workshop may be held for representatives of both groups. Similarities and differences between the groups should be explored and the ideas generated by both groups discussed. This will identify joint needs and common ideas.
3. Once one or more ideas have been identified a SWOT analysis (examining strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) should be carried out to assess the most suitable project to take on.
4. Visit or collect information on similar projects elsewhere. It could be useful in terms of finding out about the guidelines and pitfalls involved in the project and the long-term effect on the communities involved.
5. Action Planning- ask yourselves the following questions:
a. What is the project?
b. Why are you doing it?
c. How long, roughly, would the project last?
d. When would it take place?
e. Who would be involved as organisers? As participants?
f. Where would the project take place?
g. How would the project be done?
6. Use the Template for Project Planning to design your project.
8. Source and apply for suitable funding for the cross-border partnership.