Voluntary Action Camden e-bulletin 27th September 2019

Trustees’ Week Event – Safeguarding and Trustees

Are you a charity trustee whose organisation delivers services to children and young people in Camden? Do you have the correct policies and procedures in place?
Trustees have primary responsibility for safeguarding in their charity, so come along to our free workshop & find out how the Charity Commission’s Guidance affects you.
Wednesday 6th November: 2.00pm – 5.00pm at Voluntary Action Camden, Charlie Ratchford Centre, Belmont Street NW1. contact: Dianne Carlton Ogunyemi, Tel: 020 7 284 6575 | Email: dogunyemi@vac.org.uk (Mon – Wed)

Food Bank Collections

This Saturday 28 September there will be a food bank collection stall from 11am-1pm in Queen’s Crescent market. Proceeds will go to  Chalk Farm and Euston food banks.  Items needed are: tinned meat; tinned fish; tinned fruit; tinned tomatoes; long life milk (UHT); instant coffee; chocolate; long life juice; laundry detergent; pet food; nappies; sanitary protection; unopened toiletries.  Not pasta or beans, thanks!

Holborn Community Association Activities

Fun Palace – 6th October
A day of fun, creativity and surprises! Come and help make a digital orchestra, take part in a drama workshop or learn to knit. More info here
Bloomsbury Festival – 13th-20th October
Cromer Street Welcomes the Moon – a creative family street party
The Under the Moon Hub – Arts and science collide in a fun, engaging day
Documentary film premiere of ‘Londoners‘ – produced by young film making team Revolution Productions on HCA’s Summer Film Project
Contact 1aarts@holborncommunity.co.uk or call 02074052370

SLAGO Autumn Social

Friday 27th  September 7.15pm till late
Come along to the Surrey and London Association of Gay Organisations at The Calthorpe Arms 252 Grays Inn Road, Holborn, London WC1X 8JR

Exploring chronic pain and other untold stories of hidden illness

Participant Call Out! Raquel Meseguer is creating a new installation based on stories of people’s attempts to rest in public. This is about everyday stories, and everyday acts of bravery, told with honesty and frankness.
If you’d like be involved in this amazing project or would just like to know more, please sign up here or email ralph.uncharteredcollective@gmail.com

Celebrating Camden Parents and Carers Fun Day

Sat 26th October 1-4pm @ Haverstock School
Email: roshinmustafa@hotmail.com 07446964246 with any queries about bookings and stalls

A National View on Camden’s Knife Crime Challenge

The Guardian has an article on some of the factors in the current knife crime challenges facing Camden.  If focusses more on gang issues rather than the underlying issues.  Articles looking at the broader picture can be found in New Scientist and Prospect Magazine.

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

Sports Grants Portal

London sport have a very useful funding search tool to help you find current funding opportunities across London for physical activity and sport.

Youth work grant funding

Camden Council is now accepting applications for the Camden Youth Work Grant. Check out the application form for details. The focus of this funding is for work with ages 13–19 in Camden and up to age 25, if working with young people with learning difficulties or disabilities. The deadline for submission of application is Monday, October 14, 2019 at 5pm. Completed application should be send to youthworkfunding@camden.gov.uk

Social Action and Young People

#iwill is a fund to deliver social action opportunities for young people aged 10 to 20 years old when (25 for disabled people). Social action involves activities such as campaigning, fundraising and volunteering. Grants are £1,000 and £10,000 for each project. Deadline midday 14th October.
please contact The Programmes Team at The London Community Foundation at applications@londoncf.org.uk or 020 7582 5117.

Have Your Say on VAC’s Activities and Websites

We are surveying all our members and subscribers to get your views on VAC and how you we can work better in the future/ or what things you think VAC should be working on now and in the coming years. It’s a short survey and as a thank you everyone who completes the survey has a chance to win £100.

Young Camden Foundation launches the Pathways Fund,

The Pathway Fund is a new grant to tackle youth crime in Camden and from today are inviting organisations to submit their Expressions of Interest.
The Pathways Fund is part of the Community Impacts Fund and will invest in the delivery of a 2 year programme of services and activities aimed at reducing youth offending in Camden. YCF will support a partnership of youth-focused organisations to deliver innovative and impactful programmes between January 2020 – 2022.
The closing date for Expressions of Interest is 5pm on Friday 25th October.  Youth-focused organisations are encouraged to develop partnerships and work collaboratively. Contact grants@youngcamdenfoundation.org.uk

Physical Activity Inclusion Fund and Community Foundation

PAIF offers local community groups in Camden the opportunity to apply for grants of up to £1.5K, to ‘kick start’ projects that aim to reach our inactive communities.
Full details are here:   Or for contact – CamdenPAIF@GLL.ORG
GLL aslo run a Community Foundation offering funding for community groups.

Funding available for specialist community projects for vulnerable women and girls

Local groups supporting women and girls with issues like period poverty, domestic and sexual abuse, mental health and long-term unemployment can to apply for a share of £3.5 million for their vital work.
A further round of the Tampon Tax Community Fund is open to charities and community groups working with women of all ages and backgrounds to build their skills, confidence and self-esteem.

Young people and volunteering

In partnership with Thrive LDN and iWill Fund, the GLA are  offering grants of £10-15,000 to groups and organisations who get young people involved in volunteering and social action.   The fund is aimed at young people who face challenges.  This is our third year offering these grants and the impact of recent years has been so incredible we have raised the funding from £5-10k to £10-15k. The closing date is 18 October 2019. Details here.

Inclusive Communities Fund

Camden Giving has funding available for organisations with an annual income of less than £500,000 whose existing services, activities and facilities are not easily accessible for adults with physical, learning, cognitive or mental health disabilities in Camden. Projects should bring together disabled and non-disabled adults by improving access to, and participation in their existing services, activities and facilities. Apply for up to £20,000 before 11th November.
Visit www.camdengiving.org.uk/inclusive-community-fund or email admin@camdengiving.org.uk for more information.

Ageing Better in Camden Funding Opportunity – Gospel Oak/ Haverstock Area

ABC has funds for organisations to deliver activities specifically in the Gospel Oak and Haverstock area. ABC would like to commission 4 contracts which will provide activities for people aged 60+. These activities would need to be ‘Warm Welcome’ Community Activities which are supportive, well run activities in their local community. This will help older people to reduce their social isolation and loneliness through attending these activities, making connections and building networks.
ABC is looking to award up to 4 contracts in this locality. Funds of £10,000 for 1 year (starting January 2019) are available to organisations that are able to provide a range of activities in the area. Full details here. Deadline: 3rd October 9am. RSVP to ageingbetterincamden@ageukcamden.org.uk

The HS2 Camden Fund

The Camden Fund aims to strengthen the sense of place and alleviate the disruption of the development of HS2 on local people. Aims:
1. A Happier and Healthier Camden
2. A Better Connected Camden
3. A Stronger Voluntary and Community Sector
Closing date: 14th May 2020. Full details at Camden Giving.

Healthy Minds Programme with Mind in Camden

The latest Healthy Minds community programme is now available.  A range of activities are available from VAC, Mary Ward, Mind in Camden, BWA, Good Gym, the Round House and more.  Find out what’s on and how to book.

Safeguarding Courses:

Safeguarding Introduction: Protecting Children in the Community
Wednesday 16th October: 10.00am – 1.00pm
Protecting Children in the Community is an introductory course designed for all those who work directly with children, young people or their families. Open to all those who have had little or no safeguarding training before. Who Should Take This Course? Suitable for anyone requiring basic safeguarding training, including volunteers, play workers and new starters who have never had safeguarding training before.
Safeguarding Advance: Developing knowledge and understanding.
Tuesday 22nd October 10.00am – 2.30pm (Includes lunch)
If you frequently work with or deliver services to children and their families, it is essential that your organisation / group has up-to-date knowledge of safeguarding legislation and understands it’s legal obligations in regards to child protection procedures.
This Advanced course is designed to develop existing understanding of the safeguarding process through a variety of written text, case studies and interactive exercises.
Who Should Take This Course? Suitable for anyone who has attended safeguarding training previously and would like to update their knowledge and skills further, including volunteers and workers of all levels.
Please contact: Dianne Carlton Ogunyemi, our Community Partnership Advisor Lead to book your place, as well as customised Safeguarding training enquires.
Tel: 020 7 284 6575 | Email: dogunyemi@vac.org.uk email (Mon – Wed)

More details on the VAC website: https://vac.org.uk/events/

Camden Disability Action

Annual General Meeting on Wed 30th October from 17.00 pm to 19.00 pm
rsvp 020 7974 6051 or email communications@camdendisabilityaction.org.uk

Camden Family Members Reference Group

Thursday 3 October 2019 from 10.30am-12.30pm
followed by a light lunch
The Dining Room, Charlie Ratchford Centre
1 Belmont Street, off Chalk Farm Road, NW1 8HF
How to access information and changes in services in Camden with or without digital technology

West Euston Partnership Events

Professional English: There a few places left on our free one-to-one lessons designed to help improve their English in the workplace. Lessons begin week commencing Monday 30th September and last for 8 weeks. Please note people must be already at ESOL Entry 2 Level.
Free advice and support for people with the following:  -Dyslexia -Dyspraxia -Dyscalculia -ADHD -Autism Spectrum Disorder. Our experienced coach will provide useful tips to help people with the above at home, work or in study.
Date: Tuesday 1st October, 6pm – 8pm
Venue: West Euston Partnership, 29-31 Hampstead Road, London NW1 3JA (next door to Sainsbury’s Local)
contact David on 020 7388 7932 or at david.hermanstein@camden.gov.uk

Inclusive Football

For anyone 6-14 years old. This session is aimed at children and young people with a disability and their siblings. Every Wednesday during term time, 5.00pm – 6.00pm. Coram’s Fields Football Pitch, 93 Guilford Street, London WC1N
Free inclusive football session run by Arsenal Football club and Coram’s Field. For more information or to register for the session, please contact Edel Maher- Sports Development Officer edel@coramsfields.org.uk or 02033842209

Camden and Islington NHS Trust

Annual Members’ Meeting 2019
Thursday 3rd October, 5.45 – 8pm. At the Wellcome Collection, NW1
Guest Speaker is Prof Sir Simon Wessely, Chair of the Independent Review of the Mental Health Act.  rsvp communications@candi.nhs.uk

‘Overcoming Barriers: Neurodiversity in Autism’

ALAG (Asperger London Area Group) is a community organisation providing valuable social and practical support to high functioning but vulnerable adults on the autism spectrum across London.
ALAG invites you to the Autumn Conference on Thursday 17 October
Book at Eventbrite. Any questions contact Ethney at info@alag.org.uk.

Breakfast Volunteers Needed

The Swiss Church In London runs a community breakfast every Tuesday morning and would love your help. We support homeless and low income people in Camden by providing them with a free breakfast.
Our regular group of 25 – 40 guests are pleasant, well presented, talkative and very appreciative. We do not have issues with drink or drugs and provide a safe and clean environment. Breakfast is served in our church building on Endell Street. We  do not indoctrinate, preach or pray during breakfast and welcome anyone regardless of religion or belief.
To get involved contact Josh Kelly on josh.kelly@swisschurchlondon.org.uk

Comms and Engagement Worker North Camden Zone

The North Camden Zone project aims to back community-led change on three local estates. The project is a partnership of local organisations and community members committed to working together to make our neighbourhood a great place for everyone to live and to grow up in. The North Camden Zone is a project of the Winch.
We are looking for someone to strengthen our engagement with residents to support community-led change by leading on our communication. Details here

Healthy Minds Volunteer training on Wed 17th October

The Healthy Minds Community Programme helps Camden residents reconnect with the community through a range of free courses, workshops and activities. With events hosted by the likes of British Museum, Roundhouse, Triyoga and more, we offer participants new opportunities to get involved in Camden life.
As a Volunteer Active Mentor, you’ll hold small group sessions to support members in engaging with physical activities.
Georgia Gideon, Mind In Camden Healthy Minds Sports & Fitness Development Worker tel: 02072418987 email: GGideon@mindincamden.org.uk

Over 50s Activities Programme Lead, Centre Volunteer Coordinator

£27,000 – £29,500 if full time 35 hours per week, depending on experience
6-9 month temporary contract
Abbey Community Centre.  Duties include:
~ Coordinating centre’s Over 50s Activities Programme: daily social groups, activities and services for local people aged 50+
~ Supervision and day-to-day support of Over 50s workers
~ Recruiting, supporting, supervising, recognising centre volunteers
Full details here. Closing date 19th October.

Citizens Advice Camden is seeking Trustees and Treasurer

Citizens Advice Camden provides independent advice services to people who live, work or study in Camden. We are governed and managed locally but with the benefit of being part of the influential national organisation, Citizens Advice.
For further details about Citizens Advice Camden and the roles please visit the website  or for an informal and confidential discussion contact the CEO, margie.butler@camdencabservice.org.uk

Healthwatch Camden is recruiting

After six successful years, our Director, Frances is moving on. If you can build on the success and provide leadership, vision and operational direction, please apply.
Healthwatch Camden are also filling two other posts:
A Projects and Volunteering Officer to support the range of our work, giving people a voice in health and care in Camden through our innovative and influential projects. We looking for someone to help manage the progress of projects, including analysing research results and supporting volunteer input.
A Business Support Officer, supporting the Director and trustees, and responding to queries from the public. You will also be responsible for keeping our records and database up to date and the office running smoothly.
More details on our website: https://healthwatchcamden.co.uk/jobs

The Kids Network seeks Volunteer Mentors

The Kids Network are an organisation that supports children aged 8-11 through one-to-one mentoring. Over the course of a year, in weekly sessions, mentors help grow their mentee’s confidence and resilience, broaden their horizons and prepare them for the transitional period between primary and secondary school. Mentors help build curiosity for ambitious futures through a series of fun and positive activities and experiences, opening up London in accessible and interesting ways. Interested? Please apply here, or get in touch with Freya: f.brocchini@thekidsnetwork.org.uk 07533 098102.

Cockpit Arts Trustees Recruitment

Cockpit Arts invites applications to join our Board of Trustees from people interested in being part of our award-winning social enterprise supporting craft, design and creative enterprise.
Home to over 140 independent creative businesses, Cockpit is London’s leading studios for contemporary craft and the UK’s only business incubator for craft and design.
For more details and to apply, click here or email maxine@cockpitarts.com

Train now to join the emergency volunteer team in Camden

There are a number of training dates to choose from, with more to come. (18th and 25th September). This is your chance to be part of a new way of helping out as a volunteer in the event of an emergency in Camden or Hammersmith & Fulham. Full details here. More info at  camera@volunteercentrecamden.org.uk
No specialist skills, qualifications or experience are required. Volunteer Centre Camden will provide you with all the training you will need.

Volunteer with VAC and develop experience and skills in public health

VAC provide training, and work opportunities for Camden volunteers who can commit 2 hours per week.
We offer free Royal Society of Public Health (RSPH) training to volunteer as a Community Links volunteer, part of a new Care Navigation and Social Prescribing service in Camden. Community Links volunteers signpost residents to community based activities and help with formal referrals where community based activities are needed alongside clinical care.
Contact: Mandira Manandhar, Community Links Co-ordinator (Mon, Tues and Thurs) 020 7284 6550/6573 or email: mmanandhar@vac.org.uk

VAC is recruiting volunteers to help us in our building in Chalk Farm

We are recruiting volunteer receptionists to be the first point of contact for visitors. You will be an important member of the VAC team of volunteers and staff and will have access to training and ongoing support.
Contact Kevin Nunan at VAC on 020 7284 6557 or knunan@vac.org.uk

Need a Meeting Room near Chalk Farm
Special rates for Camden network events

VAC now has 3 new rooms to hire out for Events/Training, etc. at our new base in the Charlie Ratchford Centre in Chalk Farm.
There is a large room for up to 60 people, ideal for large events.
The training room can hold up to 20 people comfortably for training/workshops
The Lounge is a open area for anything that is not confidential and can hold up to 20 people. Smartboard, level access throughout, reasonable prices.
Rates and full details on the VAC website. Special rates for Camden networks.

Camden and Islington Sustainability Awards 2019

There is still time to nominate in the category ‘Community Project/initiative’
Best community environmental project – Recognises the efforts of community groups working to improve their local environment.
Deadline Wednesday 23 October. For more info and to apply click here.

EU Citizens Rights Information Sessions

The website www.eurights.uk, allows a community group or community champion to book a lawyer to attend their event for free. Seraphus will: (i) give a presentation on the Settled Status scheme, (ii) answer any questions, and (iii) remain available afterwards for one-to-one questions with audience members. The one requirement to benefit from this free service, is for at least 40 members of the European community (EEA or Swiss nationals) and their family members to have confirmed their interest to attend.

Want to Share a Skill, Space or Equipment?

Simply add your request to Comoodle Camden, the new local online sharing platform which facilitates sharing for community benefit.

GamCare (Tampon Tax Funding)

Free suite of resources for staff and women/girls affected by problem gambling;
Free face-to-face training packages with an aim of upskilling staff around early identification, advice, signposting and referral;
Free Treatment to women affected by problem gambling;
A single point of contact for ongoing support and advice.
For more information about the programme please contact
Rebekka Hammelsbeck – Women’s Programme Outreach Officer London
T: 020 7801 7000 M: 07307 610091 E: rebekka.hammelsbeck@gamcare.org.uk

Our mailing address is:
Charlie Ratchford Centre, Belmont Street, London, NW1 8HF

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