Voluntary Action Camden e-bulletin 5th February 2016

launch the Pocket Advocate; Strategic Partners Fund Q and A; Camden Disability Action AGM; Faith identity and life : A tale of two ages; Adult Hearing Assessment Service; Another Social Care Web Database/Portal ; February is LGBT History Month; Community Safety Partnership Board – Strategic Assessment ; + jobs, volunteers, events, training, offers and resources.

Project Embrace have just released a free download of their Pocket Advocate guide. The pocket advocate is a simple visual guide to help people navigate the challenging times. The free download is available at the following link:
http://www.the-pocket-advocate.com/
You can find out more about the Pocket Advocate and the work of Project Embrace from this interview at the RethinkMentalIllness website
https://www.rethink.org/news-views/2016/1/pocket-advocate

Co-designing the Greenwood CIL Specification
Camden Disability Action and Camden Council invite you to join a series of workshops at Charlie Ratchford Centre, Belmont Street, London, NW1 8HF
Thursday 18th February, 5-7pm
Wednesday 2nd March, 5-7pm
Wednesday 16th March, 5-7pm
Thursday 31st March, 5-7pm
Greenwood Place in Kentish Town will be the site of a new community resource centre and home to Camden’s first ever Centre for Independent Living (CIL). We are now working together to design the specification for the service that the CIL will provide. We are designing the CIL’s:
• Service offer
• Outcomes and objectives
• Values and principles
• Ways of working
• …amongst other elements
We have held one workshop already and we hope that you will join us to continue this work.
To book a place, please contact: Phone: 0207 284 6550, Email: info@vac.org.uk
Or online at Eventbrite : https://greenwood-cil-workshops.eventbrite.co.uk
When you book, please let us know if you have any specific communication or access requirements.

Camden Disability Action Annual General Meeting
Monday 15 February 6 – 8 pm at Arlington Conference Centre, 220 Arlington Road, NW1
Guest speakers Cllr. Sally Gimson, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care & Health.
To register, contact Anju Bhatt via email on abhatt@vac.org.uk or 0207 284 6550.

The Council’s new Strategic Partners Fund for the local voluntary sector
The web-page www.camden.gov.uk/strategicpartnersfund explains the process which led to the creation of this fund, and includes everything you need to apply to the fund.
The first fund to launch under this new programme will be the Strategic Partners Fund, which contains funds for both Neighbourhood Strategic Partners and Equalities Strategic Partners.
The web page contains details of the fund, application forms and Handy Guides and should answer most questions about the Strategic Partners Fund.Two recent events were an opportunity to ask questions and those questions and answers will also be made available on the website.

Faith identity and life : A tale of two ages
Three members of Opening Doors London (ODL) and three UCL students who identify as LGBTQ+ will share their experiences of faith, identity and life from a generational perspective in this panel discussion at UCL. Some short films of the panellists created by Rob Eagle will also be shown. The discussion will be chaired by Revd. Bertrand Olivier, openly gay Vicar of All Hallows By The Tower.
Wednesday 10th February, 2016 from 6:00pm to 7:30pm, followed by a drinks reception
The Panel Discussion will be held in the Pearson Lecture Theatre at UCL, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT. Drinks reception will be held from 7:30pm in the Wilkins Garden Room.
The event is free but you need to register online in advance at: Eventbrite

Adult Hearing Assessment Service
If you have used this service – your feedback will be most welcome. I would also appreciate if you could forward the link to friends and family who may have used this service.
The ink to survey is: https://feedback.camdenccg.nhs.uk/camden-ccg/adult-hearing-assessment-service

Another Social Care Web Database/Portal
With support from The Access to Justice Foundation and The Law Society Charity, LASA have produced a new social care web tool. Socialcareinfo.net covers the whole of the UK providing members of the public with access to quality assured information and support in relation to their social care needs. Don’t forget Start Here VAC’s directory of Camden Organisations, Camden Care Choices Marketplace Directory, or AgeUK Camden’s Information Directory.

February is LGBT History Month
Documenting Gender 4.2.16– Join us for a documentary night with discussion.
“Chem’d In” Chemsex workshop 11.2.16 – Everyone’s talking about it! An evening of talks/debate about chemsex, the drugs, the parties and the morning after…
LGBTQ Film night 18.2.16– Join us for an evening of light hearted entertainment, with a hilarious film that touches on gender identity. (Popcorn included!)
Understanding Gender 25.2.16– Join us for an evening of talks & presentations from people in the know
Venue: CRI 184 Royal College Street, Every Thursday February, 6pm-9pm

Community Safety Partnership Board – Strategic Assessment 2015/’16
Please take part in the on-line survey as part of the Strategic Assessment this year, which will inform the priorities the partnership sets in 2016/’17.
The on-line survey runs until the middle of March. A link to the survey can be found here;
https://consultations.wearecamden.org/culture-environment/crimeandantisocialbehaviour

If you notice blood in your pee, tell your doctor
Did you know that blood in your pee could be a sign of bladder or kidney cancer? These cancers can affect people of all ages but are most common in those over 50 years old. Go to see your doctor if you notice blood in your pee, even if it’s just the once. The chances are it’s nothing serious, but if it is cancer, finding it early makes it more treatable. Other bladder cancer symptoms include infection that is difficult to treat and pain when peeing. Other kidney cancer symptoms include pain in the side that doesn’t’t go away and weight loss. You’re not wasting anyone’s time by getting your symptoms checked out. If you’ve been to the doctor but your symptoms haven’t gone away, go back – they’ll want to know.
To find out more, visit nhs.uk/bloodinpee

Free training, outings and events for unpaid carers in Camden
For a full list of events of carers in Camden please visit the Camden Carers website.

Healthwatch Camden
Latest Information DIgest is on the Healthwatch Camden website.
Catch up with the latest Camden news and what’s happening on Our Blog

The Camden Capacity Building Bulletin is produced monthly, targeting the community and voluntary sector in Camden. It provides up to date/recently live information and news on funding and training. To access the latest information please follow the Link www.camden.gov.uk/cbbulletin

Opening Doors, Midaye Somali Development Network, AVI, Elfrida Rathbone Camden, Camden Safeguarding Children Board, Nordoff Robbins, New Horizon Youth Centre, British Somali Community, Alexandra Road Park, and Camden PA are recruiting. See Jobs and Volunteers section below.

Camden Shares. The website for exchanges in Camden. www.camdenshares.org.uk

You can join in on Facebook. Like us if you like us.

Follow all the Camden Voluntary Sector news on OneCamden on Twitter.

You can read more about all of these stories on our news page at www.vac.org.uk/new

Attacks on Charities ‘the new normal’
With more coverage of Kids Company, a Parliamentary committee wading in on fundraising to blame trustees and allegations that AgeUk mishandled energy deals for customers, the Association of Chairs warns that “this really does seem the new normal”.
Acevo’s Stephen Bubb said he was “very worried” about the “dangerous drip, drip of charity’-bashing stories” in the media.
“It’s very damaging to the sector as a whole,” he said. “We can’t have this continual drip of charity-bashing unless we undermine the work that charities as a whole do for older and younger people.
“We rely at a time of austerity increasingly on the work that charities do in the communities. I am very concerned that the government and newspapers seem to be too happy to have a go at charities and not print the good stuff about what we do.”

Competition Regulator Warns that Energy is Overpriced and nothing is done, but the Sun claims AgeUk miss-sold energy deal and Government +Three Regulators Spring into Action
In July 2015 after a long investigation the Competition and Markets Authority confirmed what most suspected, that the we were all being overcharged for energy to the tune of £1.2billion a year. The government and energy providers declined to act. However. this week the Sun claimed that the deal AgeUK sells to older people is not the best available. Despite AgeUK giving a detailed rebuttal to the allegations, the Energy Minister Amber Rudd immediately referred AgeUK to Ofgem, the Charity Commission took it upon themselves to launch an investigation as did the Fundraising Standards Board. AgeUK “strongly reject the allegations and interpretation of the figures.” Move in Civil Society.

Tory council complains to David Cameron over ‘unrealistic’ budget cuts
Conservative-run East Sussex council says budget cuts will significantly reduce quality of life for people in the area
“There appears to be misunderstanding in relation to the nature of council reserves, the ability to make significant further efficiencies, the likely returns from further sharing of services and the ability to raise income.” Full story in the Guardian

See the Funding pages on VAC’s website for all the latest information.

Direct Action Project – Islington mental health promotion service
The Direct Action Project for mental health promotion is now live on the London Tenders Portal.
Information for potential bidders:
· You will find the contract listed under ‘1516-835 Direct Action Project’.
· Any questions regarding this procurement must be submitted through the Portal

Greggs Foundation new Environmental Fund
Greggs Foundation new Environmental Fund which is awarding grants of up to £2,500 and £10,000. The preference is always small, community-based organisations helping people in need.
Improving People’s lives by improving their environment aims to make a difference to people in need at the heart of their local communities.
Full details at http://www.greggsfoundation.org.uk/environmental-grants

RBS Skills and Opportunities Fund Opens for Applications on 1 February
The £2.5 million RBS Skills and Opportunities Fund was set up last year by the Royal Bank of Scotland in support of organisations that help people in disadvantaged communities develop, create or access the skills and opportunities they need to help themselves, skills that will enable them to get into work or start a business, now or in the future.
The funding is aimed at projects that will promote education, develop skills for employment and help people to start a business. No more than 25% of the project spend can be capital costs. Large capital costs are not eligible, eg buildings, land purchase, refurbishments, large items of equipment. Small items of capital equipment are allowed if they are used within the delivery of the project.
The maximum grant is £35,000 or 20% of the applicant’s previous year’s turnover. The upper limit of turnover is £5 million. There is no turnover restriction for schools or colleges.
Not-for-profit organisations or an eligible state funded education body, such as a charity, social enterprise, community group, school, college can apply.
To be eligible, applicants must:
~ Be based in either the UK or Republic of Ireland.
~ Be able to demonstrate experience of working in and or with disadvantaged communities.
~ Be able to demonstrate experience in measuring impact of the projects.
~ Have a turnover of less than £5 million and have been trading for at least two years.
~ Be able to complete the project within 18 months of the award.
The deadline for applications is 19 February 2016 (noon). Full details at the RBS website

Postcode Local Trust
Small Projects Funding Guide. In 2016, the Trust will invite applications that encourage lasting benefits by bringing people together to improve local ecology and habitats, encourage bio-diversity and benefit the wider environment.
Registered charities can apply from £500 – £20,000 (£10,000 in Wales) for projects meeting the above remit, whilst other organisations may apply for up to £2,000. Full details at the Postcode Local Trust website.

Lloyds Bank Foundation
Invest provides longer term core or delivery funding for charities which meet the programme aim and are delivering clear outcomes as a result of their work.
We fund ‘core’ organisational costs (including running costs and salaries). By ‘core’ costs we mean those related to the day to day running of your charity. We also fund costs associated with the direct delivery of your work. Full details here.

Comic Relief Local Communities Programme Launches Second Round
Applications are now being accepted for the Comic Relief Local Communities Programme in London with a deadline of 1 March 2016 (5pm).
Grants are available to charitable organisations and groups for projects that improve people’s life skills, education, employability and enterprise.
Grants of between £1,000 and £10,000 are available and must be for at least 30% of the total costs of the project.
Projects should be run by people directly affected by the issues being dealt with, and priority will be given to small, locally-based groups or organisations in areas of disadvantage that have a clear understanding of the needs of their community.
Examples of activities that can be funded through this programme include, but are not limited to, the following:
~ Furniture projects.
~ Benefit advice services.
~ Community sport initiatives.
~ Food co-ops.
~ Initiative designed to combat fuel poverty.
~ Employment and employability projects.
~ Community consultation exercises.
~ Training schemes for committee members, volunteers and staff.
Funding can be used to cover core costs, salaries and project costs.
The deadline for applications is 1 March 2016 (5pm). Full details here.

Lloyds Bank Social Entrepreneurs Programme
Lloyds Bank and Bank of Scotland Social Entrepreneurs Programme gives social entrepreneurs the best possible chance of success by providing access to support and funding. To date the Lloyds Bank Social Entrepreneurs Programme has supported 750 social entrepreneurs.
The programme will be open for applications again from 1st February until 21st March 2016. There are two courses on offer, Start Up and Scale Up.
~ Start Up will help you get a new organisation up and running
~ Scale Up will help you grow a sustainable social enterprise

Don’t forget to sign up to Funding Central for free email funding alerts. Go to www.fundingcentral.org.uk/

VAC’s Mental Health Training Programme for BMER groups
Are you a BMER group or do you work with BMER communities? If so, then our Mental Health Training Programme is for you! Our next courses are as follows:
• Introduction to Mental Health Awareness (one day workshop: 9th December)
• Mental Health First Aid (two-day course: 9th and 16th February 2016)
For more information about our any of our courses, please go to https://vac.org.uk/events/category/health-mental-health/. Click on the course you are interested in and follow the instructions to book your place and pay by card (if applicable). The charge for our Mental Health First Aid and Youth Mental Health First Aid training courses is heavily subsidised at only £25 per person. All other mental health workshops are free.
Please note that VAC can only accept bookings from organisations working with BMER communities based in Camden, or which serve Camden BMER residents. Places are limited on each course to a maximum of two people per organisation. If you have any queries, please contact us on our team email address: mentalhealthteam@vac.org.uk

VAC has a full programme of courses coming up: Click here to find out more. All courses are £25 for members (unless otherwise stated).

Changes to public toilets meeting for older people, Wednesday 24 February
Cllr Larraine Revah, champion for older people is hosting a meeting for older residents in Camden to come and hear about the about changes to public toilet provision in Camden and to provide ideas and suggestions on developing a new approach.
The Council has decided to reduce the money it spends on public toilets by £260,000, Full details at https://consultations.wearecamden.org/culture-environment/changes-to-public-toilet-provision-in-camden
To make this saving the council are proposing to:
* close three toilets, in Pond Square, South End Green and West End Lane
* develop community toilet schemes in these three areas
* introduce pay to use toilets, at Camden Town and Lincoln’s Inn Fields
Camden are inviting ideas which the Council can explore if it would avoid toilet closures and invite you to attend a meeting for older residents in Camden about the changes:
2-4pm on Wednesday 24th February 2016 at The Council Chamber, Camden Town Hall, Judd Street WC1

CPPEG Open Meeting Thursday 11th February at 2pm
The meeting will be held at St Pancras Hospital in the conference room. NB this meeting was originally scheduled for Monday 8th February but had to be moved to Thursday 11th February
The presentations for the open meeting are as follows:
~ Camden Integrated Digital Record (CIDR) update Presenter: Nigel Slator, Implementation Lead, Camden CCG. Find you all you need to know about how this will affect you and issues around obtaining consent, accessing digital records and opting out
~ Camden Community Connectors Presenter: Corinna Gray, Ageing Better in Camden. Find out more about how Ageing Better in Camden are supporting older people who are lonely or socially isolated and we are reconnecting people with local communities.
If you are able to attend Please RSVP Bethany Golding, Communications & Engagement Manager
Tel: 020 3688 2456. Email: Bethany.Golding@camdenccg.nhs.uk

Meeting for Camden & Islington Service Users to about future plans
Thursday 11th February in the Conference Centre, St Pancras Hospital.
The meeting is a chance for service users of Camden and Islington to meet some members of the CQC team who will be inspecting Camden and Islington Foundation Trust on the 22 Feb 2016 to 26 Feb 2016.
Members of the Camden and Islington Board have been invited to discuss their future plans and to answer questions from the floor.
Commissioners from both Camden and Islington will also be present to introduce their plans for the future and answer questions.
Jane Ray (CQC Head of Inspection London Region) will also be attending this meeting.
The meeting will start with tea and coffee and a small buffet at 5 pm.
The meeting will start formally at 5.30pm.
Each invited group will present for 5 mins each.
Answer and question session will start at 6 pm.
This session should last untill 6.45pm
There will be a break for 10 mins to allow more tea and coffee.
Resume at 6.55pm for final session to finish at 7.30pm.
Service users may request one to one session with the CQC at the meeting but be reminded that individual confidential information should not be shared in public at this venue.
The point of the meeting is to meet some members of the CQC team.
This meeting is a joint Ibug and Camden Voluntary Action Service user event.
This meeting will be hosted by Peter Jones; IBUG Director and Alex Boyt; Service User Involvement Coordinator at Voiceability.

UCL launches free online dementia course
UCL has announced a free four-week online course “The Many Faces of Dementia” aiming to provide valuable insights into dementia through the stories, symptoms and science behind four less common diagnoses. The interactive MOOC (massive open online course) features interviews with world-leading experts, people with dementia and their families as well as articles and discussion.
This free online four-week course will give you a unique insight into dementia through the stories, symptoms and science behind four of the less commonly diagnosed forms of dementia. More information and sign up for free at http://www.ucl.ac.uk/lifelearning/courses/dementia-many-faces

Working with Black/African Children & Families (London)
Thursday, 11th February 2016 9:30am – 4:30pm £40.00
At City of Westminster College, Paddington Green Campus, London W2 1NB
All practitioners working with Black African children and families, including: Pupil Inclusion Managers, Teachers, Mental Health Workers, Social Workers, Youth Offending Teams, Family Support Workers, Education Welfare Officers and others.
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/safeguarding-children-working-with-blackafrican-children-families-london-tickets-18568312322
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) as a Child Safeguarding Issue (London).
Wednesday, 2nd March 2016 9:30am-4:30pm £40.00
At TPP Recruitment, Sherborne House, 119-121 Cannon Street, London EC4N 5AT
To explore the issue of Female Genital Mutilation(FGM) and the impact on victims. Practitioners will also gain further knowledge around the socio-cultural and religious factors underpinning the practice and skills in identifying at risk individuals. The training will also explore debates around informed consent and male circumcision
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/female-genital-mutilation-fgm-as-a-child-safeguarding-issue-london-tickets-19117032559
Training Course: Child Abuse linked to a Belief in Witchcraft & Juju (London)
Thursday, 10th March 2016 9:30am-4:30pm £40.00
At City of Westminster College, Paddington Green Campus, London W2 1NB
Target Group: Senior Managers and Front-line staff
Participants will work on a range of case studies in order to strengthen their skills intervening in families where there have been accusations of witchcraft and spirit possession, gaining new strategies on how to work with community and faith organisations in order to support families and change practices.
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/training-course-child-abuse-linked-to-a-belief-in-witchcraft-juju-london-tickets-19116981406
Please note that cancellations made two weeks before a training course cannot be refunded.
If you prefer to pay by cheque, invoice or BACS please contact training@afruca.org and request for a booking form. There is an administrative fee of £8 for invoices.
Please contact: training@afruca.org or call: 02077042261 or visit: www.afruca.org

Wild Bunch Valentines Party
Valentines Party on Thursday 11th February at Electrowerkz so do come along and celebrate love, relationships & friendship.
Thursday 11th February 7-11pm, £5 on the door, Electrowerkz, 7 Torrens Street, EC1. Wheelchair Access over 18s. Siren 020 7359 7443.

London Mayoral Election 2016 Hustings for Older Londoners
Age UK London has invited four leading London Mayoral Election 2016 candidates to answer questions and say how they will make London ‘A Great Place to Grow Older.’
Sian Berry, Green Party councillor for Highgate, Camden Council
Zac Goldsmith, Conservative MP for Richmond Park and North Kingston
Caroline Pidgeon, The Leader of the Liberal Democrat London Assembly Group
25 February 11am to 1pm at Clifford Chance, 10 Upper Bank St, London E14 5JJ
This event is free. You must pre-book. A light lunch will be provided.
For more information, to submit a question and to book your place visit the event website or contact Danny Elliott on delliott@ageuklondon.org.uk or 020 7820 6778.

Charities Regulation Under Scrutiny Free Event at Birkbeck
Tuesday, 16 February 2016 from 18:30 at Keynes Library – 43 Gordon Square, WC1
What are charities for, why are they special and what is the purpose of regulating them? How should they be regulated? How do and should they organise their funding? Why do charities fail? What are the ideas behind our current system and how are these changing? What is the appropriate role of the regulator? Book at eventbrite.

Winter Volunteering Fair
Our fairs are a perfect way to meet people who want to volunteer in Camden.
Wednesday 24th February 12-2pm – Working Men’s College
And you can easily book your places via Eventbrite here.
If you have any questions about this, contact Rupal by email, phone 020 7424 9990

Mind Matters Winter Events 2016
Mind in Camden is hosting a series of winter talks and discussions and an all day workshop for people working or volunteering in mental health services across London. These are FREE events to help stimulate and support you in your work. Please book on as many different events as you like using http://tinyurl.com/mind-matters2016. As places are limited please book.
Viv Fongenie – A Culture of Voices – Does our culture help or hinder the lives of voice hearers?
Thursday 11th Feb, Mind in Camden, Barnes House, 9-15 Camden Road, NW1 9LQ 6.30pm-8.15pm
Rai Waddingham: Re-thinking Violent Voices
Thursday 25th Feb, Mind in Camden, Barnes House, 9-15 Camden Road, NW1 9LQ 6.30pm-8.15pm
Nicky Forsyth – Talk for Health: therapy without therapists’
Thursday 24 March: Mind in Camden, Barnes House, 9-15 Camden Road, NW1 9LQ 6.30pm-8.15pm
Rosalie Dores – mindfulness: present to self, present to others.
Saturday 26th March: 10.30am-4pm

The adult community learning team is running Free Everyday Computer Skills workshops in more venues including:
• Kentish Town Library (NW5 2AA) – Thursdays 10 – 12
• Kilburn Library (NW6 5UH) – Tuesdays 10 – 11.45
• Latin American House (NW6 4TA) – Wednesdays 10 – 12
• Adult Learning Centre, Netley Campus (NW1 3EX) Tuesdays 1-3
The workshops provide support to residents who may have limited or no computer skills to access Council services and information online – including setting up a Camden account, accessing information and advice on care and support via the Camden Care Choices website, registering with Universal Jobmatch, booking doctor’s appointments, completing benefit applications – and much more.
No need to book. They can come along for just one session – or as many as you like.
We can adapt the workshops to include content appropriate to your clients – just get in touch Email: adultlearning@camden.gov.uk Phone: 020 7974 2148

Jewish Mental Health Forum
Next Meeting, Thursday 10th March 2016, 2.30 – 4.30pm The Brenner Community Centre, 91-93 Stamford Hill, London N16 5TP.
Jami runs The Jewish Mental Health Forum to promote awareness and understanding of mental health related issues among professionals working in health and social care. In addition to the Forum, Jami has recently launched Head Room an adult learning programme aimed across the Jewish community.
We will hear from Jami’s Head of Service, Tanya Harris speak on the subject of “Mental Health and Physical Activity: Supporting Our Wellbeing” which will explore how our health and wellbeing is intrinsically linked to our mental health.
To reserve your place for the Forum please email my colleague Clive Helman: clive.helman@jamiuk.org or telephone Jami on 020 8458 2223.

KOVE Bench to Bench Walks
Programme of five gentle healthy-living walks for over 60’s with community seating in Kilburn and West Hampstead . All Tuesday’s at 1.30pm.
1) Tuesday 16 Feb Art up the Hill – Meet Tesco Express, 176 West End Lane NW6
2) Tuesday 1 March Kilburn’s battleship – Meet Kilburn High Road Station, NW6 5UA
3) Tuesday 15th March The Park you never knew was there! Meet at Abbey Community Centre, Belsize Road, NW6
4) Tuesday 5 April Famous Faces. Meet outside Kilburn High Road Station NW6 5UA
Enquiries to Mel Wright, KOVE Tel: 07539390786 Email: melwillwright@gmail.com c/o Kingsgate Resource Centre, 208 Webheath, Palmerston Road, NW6 2JU
All walks are free and we finish with refreshments at a nearby café.

New Courses @ Maiden Lane Community Centre
156 St Paul’s Crescent, NW1 9XZ To book a place call 020 7267 9586
Tuesdays 10am-12pm – MS Word skills for work and life
Tuesday 1 – 3pm – Improve your internet and email skills
Wednesdays 10am-3pm – Create a website with WordPress
Wednesdays 10am-12pm Starts 24th February Introduction to Photoshop

Camden and Islington Recovery College
The Spring 2016 prospectus is now ready and is available online at http://www.candi.nhs.uk/our-services/education-and-employment/recovery-college.

London for All
London for All / LVSC have a full programme of courses available for the voluntary sector. Go to the London for All website for full details.

Camden Carers’ Service
Has a full range of events and activities for unpaid carers in Camden. Find out more on the Camden Carers’ Service website www.camdencs.org.uk/activities

Don’t forget that Camden TDS run a full programme of course which are subsidised or free for voluntary sector partner organisations. There is a link to a list of partner organisations on the home page.

Find more Training Opportunities at www.vac.org.uk

Midaye Somali Development Network seeks Office Manager
Salary: £15,312 pa for 22.5 hours work per week (£25,520 full time equivalent)
22.5 hours/week over 3- 4 days/week, usually during our office hours of 10-4. Some flexibility possible.
Location of work: Midaye’s offices (Unit 6, 7 Thorpe Close, London W10 5XL)
Midaye is looking for an Office Manager. You will be responsible for management of our busy office, our finances, and the software we use to help us manage and monitor our projects. You will be a central part of our team – supporting our work in the community with e.g. single mothers, people with disabilities, long term health problems or mental health issues, and those who are far from the job market. We work with members of all BME communities for whom English is an additional language – Ethiopian, Somali, Sudanese, Eritrean, Yemeni and others.
To apply, please fill in the attached application form and email to us at: jo@midaye.org.uk
We will not accept CVs – you must complete the application form and return it to us no later than 5pm on 3 March. Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed on 16 March 2016

Opening Doors London Recruiting Full Time Project Manager
Opening Doors London (ODL) is a pioneering service based at Age UK Camden and working with Age UKs across London to provide support to older LGBT* people. It runs groups, events, befriending and other supportive activities, campaigns for social justice and offers advice and training to health and social care professionals. The service is at an exciting point of consolidation and expansion with most funding in place until 2019, and we are recruiting a Project Manager to manage the service.
For further details and an application form visit our website www.ageukcamden.org.uk , email jobs@ageukcamden.org.uk or telephone 0207 239 0400. No CVs, no agencies please.
Closing date: Wednesday 2nd March 2016 5.30pm. Interviews: Tuesday 15th March 2016

Action Village India seeks Director
We are a small charity set up in 1990 to raise funds for particular projects in India. We aim to mobilise support for our six key long term partners working for genuine for long lasting development in their communities. We prioritise gender, peace, economic development and rights based work.
Our new Director will lead AVI through its agreed strategic plan, next stage of development and raise the necessary funds to do so. The successful candidate will be supported by a team of committed and active trustees and a small team in its London office.
The successful candidate will have a passion for genuine long lasting development, a minimum of five years proven fundraising experience plus the project management and networking skills and the skills to provide effective leadership in the UK. If you have a background in managing organisations and a commitment to international development and empowerment, with a particular interest in India, we would love to hear from you.
The post is for 4 days a week, office in North London and some travel to India. Salary is £35 – up to £37k depending on experience (pro rata).
Please note the closing date for applications is 5pm on 3rd March 2016
Interviews will be held on 14th March 2016 in London
See website for application information www.actionvillageindia.org.uk/home

Elfrida Rathbone Camden seeks Education Project Co-ordinator
Salary NJC scale points 32-34 £31,329 – £32,963, inc. inner London weighting, pro rata
35 hours per week, term-time only (39 weeks – working hours: 9am – 5pm)
The Leighton Education Project offers two Ascentis accredited full time courses in Personal Development and Skills for Employment, supporting young people to develop their skills for work and independent living. Working with up to 20 young people each year, you will be responsible for the co-ordination of the project, providing leadership and management to the education team.
We are looking for someone who has substantial experience of working with young people with SEN and is flexible, responsive and person-centred in their approach. If you would like to make an impact and are highly motivated to achieve excellent standards in education for young people with SEN, then we look forward to hearing from you.
Elfrida Rathbone Camden is committed to the Safeguarding of children and young people and vulnerable adults.
Closing date: 12pm on Monday 22nd February 2016 Interview: Week commencing 29th February 2016 Start Date: Wednesday 11th April 2016
For more information or to apply go to http://www2.elfridacamden.org.uk/work-with-us/

Elfrida Rathbone Camden seeks Leighton Education Project Support Volunteers
The Leighton Education Project is a three year further education facility for adults aged 16 – 25 with mild to moderate learning disabilities. It is based at our offices in Kentish Town. We are currently recruiting for Learning Support Volunteers to assist in the classroom on our Education Project, which runs Monday – Thursday 10am – 3.30pm. If you are available for a morning, afternoon or even a whole day and interested in giving your time, take a look at the website for further details.

Volunteering Opportunity at CSCB
The Camden Safeguarding Children Board (CSCB) is recruiting a Camden resident to become a Lay Member of the Board. We are looking for one person (or two) with knowledge of local child safety and issues within the local community, who could speak on behalf of the community – representing their views and needs. You will act as an independent, yet informed observer who is able to ask questions that professionals closely involved in the work might not think to ask. This is an opportunity to help make sure that agencies and organisations in Camden are safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people across the borough effectively. As a full member of Camden Safeguarding Children Board you will be expected to attend six two-hour meetings per year and a small number of working groups.
This is a voluntary post, but induction training and travel expenses will be provided if needed.
Further information please go to www.cscb.org.uk. To apply contact: Dameshk Wijesinha, CSCB Development Officer E: dameshk.wijesinha@camden.gov.uk T: 020 7974 8716.

Nordoff Robbins Seeks Volunteers
Nordoff Robbins is a music therapy charity with a Centre in Kentish Town.
We are looking for a pool of volunteers to work on reception, carrying out front of house and administrative duties and welcoming all our beneficiaries.
For more information go to http://www.nordoff-robbins.org.uk/content/jobs

Management Committee Volunteers Wanted
A group of volunteers have helped turn a church in West Hampstead into a thriving concert venue. Following an inaugural concert involving both local and international musicians, the church has been host to musical fund-raising events for Save the Children and Camden Music Trust and last summer the church launched its “Fordwych Master Series”.
Our aim is to bring high quality performers to Camden residents as well as providing a venue for budding local talent.
We are seeking a volunteer to join our management committee to assist in our finances, administration and publicity.
Contact David Gee david.gee123@ntlworld.com
fordwychmasterconcerts.wordpress.com/

New Horizon Youth Centre seeks Volunteers
Looking for a challenge, reward or a change in direction? Come and volunteer to support young homeless/vulnerable people achieve positive futures in Kings Cross. New Horizon Youth Centre’s twice award winning training programme will facilitate your volunteering in our youth work or advice teams. We provide regular support, lunch, travel expenses and the chance to work alongside dynamic and creative teams of professionals and young people. Please visit http://nhyouthcentre.org.uk/get-involved/volunteer to download a pack or to find out more.

Marketing and Communications Volunteer
British Somali Community is a women led charity based in Camden, London which has operated for 20 years. We are focused on improving Somali children’s educational achievements, improving access to health and social services and improving the overall well-being of the Somali community.
We are looking for a creative and tech-savvy volunteer to join the team and help drive our marketing and communication. The volunteer will help develop a marketing and communication strategy for the BSC and support the team in creating marketing materials for our services, assist in organizing events and some office administrative duties when required. Although this is a voluntary role, with lunch and travel expenses covered, there is a possibility of it becoming a funded role.
Please send your CV and a short covering letter explaining your interest in the position as soon as possible to: info@britishsomali.org

Alexandra Road Park Seeks Volunteers
This new park seeks volunteers who can help with conservation and promotion of Alexandra Road Park. Contact Jenny Kurktchieva, Jenny.Kurktchieva@camden.gov.uk or call 020 7974 2367.

Are you looking to employ an assistant to help with your care needs? CamdenPAs can help you.
CamdenPAs.org.uk is a new service that makes it easy to find a personal assistant (PA) and puts you in control of your care and support.
If you have care needs, you can employ a PA to help you to live as independently as possible.
CamdenPAs features an online ‘marketplace’ for you to browse through a list of profiles of PAs in the borough. Profiles give details about the services they provide, their skills, experience and personal interests.
You can look through the list to find suitable matches and choose someone you like to help support you.
When you find a match you can contact the PA to arrange an interview and see how you get on. If you like them you can then work out contract details such as hours, duties and wages, and hire them.
If you do not find anyone suitable, you can set up your own a profile describing your requirements and interests, for PAs to look through and contact you.
You can employ a PA whether you receive a direct payment or fund your own care. If you receive direct payments you can get support with the employment from Personalised Support In Camden or AgeUK Camden.
Become a PA
If you’re a PA looking for work or are just starting out, CamdenPAs can help you. As well as helping you finding a job, the site features advice on looking for work, becoming a PA and where to get training.
Why not set up your profile today? Find out more, visit: camdenpas.org.uk or phone: 020 7278 4437

Socially Responsible Recruiting
A new, award-winning skills matching service that connects employers with skilled and experienced people to do one-off or part-time jobs has launched in Camden, with a strong social benefit ethic.
“There is a very large number of people in Camden who are fantastically skilled and work-ready but are off the radar to employers because they’re not looking for full-time work and aren’t constantly scouring the job ads,” says Jonathan Collie, founder of Trading Times.
These people are highly skilled over 50s, and family carers. Trading Times brings them to you. It’s free to candidates. It costs you only £35, and only when you are connected to the perfect candidates.
Paul Fordham of Abbey Community Centre in Camden said: “”We posted our occasional job opportunity on Trading Times because we at the Abbey Community Centre recognise the value of the flexibility that can come with age. Trading Times offers a tailored means to directly target opportunities at an older group that the vast majority of other job sites simply do not seem to tap.”
Register at https://tradingtimes.org.uk/ and let Trading Times match you with the right local people for your needs.

Find Jobs and Volunteering opportunities at https://www.vac.org.uk/

Deaf Achieve
This is a Big Lottery funded project that will continue to deliver free workshops, health groups, job clubs, travel groups, financial capability training and one to one support until 2018. These are for the deaf community, aged 18-65, living in any of the London boroughs. If want to know more information about Deaf Achieve please contact: deafachieve2@royaldeaf.org.uk.

Disability Hate and Mate crime DVD
Camden People First engage professionals, people with learning difficulties and students through presentation and workshops about hate and mate crime. The team identify the differences between the two, they share their experiences and give advice on the various ways these crimes can be handled.
We share our agenda to STOP the bullying and prejudice towards people with learning difficulties.
Recently we made a DVD on Disability Hate and Mate crime as a part of our project. The purpose of this is to raise awareness about disability hate and mate crime, and how to respond to these crimes.
The cost of the DVD is £1.50. Contact Florelle@CamdenPeopleFirst.co.ukto purchase copies.

District Nursing Services Survey
Camden CCG is conducting a survey looking at the local district nursing service run by Central and North West London Foundation Trust (CNWL).
In 2014/15 the CCG undertook a review of the community health services provided by CNWL and the findings recommended that we spend more on district nursing services.
The improvements to the district nursing service will include looking at ways of investing in community nursing with CNWL. In addition, it has been highlighted that some GP practices have problems recruiting practice nurses, so we are exploring the different ways that we may be able to offer support with this. Take the survey here.

Desk to rent at Camden Federation of Private Tenants (CFPT)
Rent a desk by the hour in our new Kentish Town office. For more details, call Robert Taylor on 020 7383 0151, email rtaylor@cfpt.org.uk or go to our website at: http://cfpt.org.uk/rent-a-desk-by-the-hour/

Office Space for Hire
Camden Cypriot Women’s Organisation in Kentish Town, have office space for hire within a community building which is centrally located, The building is a few minutes walk from Kentish Town tube and mainline services as well as various bus stops.
The office, which is spacious is roughly 6 metres square, fits 4 desks freely and has a corridor which is also good for use, would be suitable for meetings or one to one sessions. Both spaces are light and airy and a viewing is highly recommended.
The building has step free access.
For further information or to view, please call Koula Ioannou on Tel: 0207 267 7194 or email koula@ccwo.org.uk

Camden Community Connectors
Tackling social isolation among older people
Camden Community Connectors is a new six year project working across Camden to tackle social isolation and loneliness among older people. Our team of five local Area Coordinators is working with volunteers to identify and support people aged 60+ and help them reconnect to local activities and meet new people. We’re also building up an accessible ‘asset map’ of all services that support older people in Camden. We’d love to hear from you if you want to work with us, refer an older person, volunteer or if you just want to know more.
We’re part of the Ageing Better in Camden programme funded by Big Lottery. To find out more, check out our website or call us free on 0800 161 5716 .

Need some online Help?
Don’t forget VAC’s toolkits and resources pages at www.vac.org.uk/our-work/toolkits-and-resources
There are resources to help you in many areas of work. For instance our HR resources can be found here: https://vac.org.uk/our-work/toolkits-and-resources/employment-hr-resources/

Camden Consultations
You can find all Camden consultation on the Wearecamden consultation hub.

FREE VAC Membership for Unfunded Groups: Voluntary Action Camden Small organisations with no paid staff and a turnover of less than £1,500 can now join for FREE. To take advantage of this offer just fill in the membership on the online form here.