Voluntary Action Camden

Hampstead Heath Camden

VAC E-Bulletin 15th December 2023

 


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Features
News and Policy
Funding
Events and Training
Jobs and Volunteering
Surveys, Resources and Opportunities

VAC Membership
VAC represents local organisations in conversations with local government and funders, we advise on local issues and we inform, support and train local charities depending on their needs

It’s completely free to sign up to be a member, and membership ensures you will be first to hear about all of the services we offer to the voluntary sector. 

Become a Member

NEW FUNDING PORTAL LAUNCHED BY VAC

We are delighted to  launch a new funding service for Camden community groups and charities.

Our new Voluntary Action Camden 4 Community Portal is a fantastic resource to help groups search for the latest funding opportunities, as well as access helpful guides and funding news and information. This replaces our ‘current funding’ page on the VAC website.

We would like to thank the Community partnership Team at Camden Council who have made it possible for VAC to host this excellent resource for Camden groups and charities. Keep an eye out for some training dates in the New Year on how to use and make the most of the funding portal!

Find our more about the new funding portal on our website: https://vac.org.uk/funding-search/

If you would like help with finding grants or your funding applications, either get in touch for a conversation or fill in our form to request our support.

NEW GROUPS NETWORK MEETING ON MONDAY 18TH DECEMBER 

Our New Groups network for charities, community groups and social enterprises who are starting out in the Camden area is meeting next week. This is a great opportunity to meet like-minded people and build links and resilience – find the meeting link in our Events and Training section further down.

Events and Training section

Learn the story behind Dry January
Ahead of the Christmas period, JustGiving have posted a profile of the charity behind Dry January, Alcohol Change UK. Learn about how their story started 10 years ago and read up on their ten tips for fundraising success.

Volunteering round up
Take a look at this volunteering round up from NCVO, with a look back at highlights from 2023 as well as a look forward to what’s relevant to the volunteering sector in the year ahead. 

NCVO offer support for charities this winter
Many charities are struggling to offer the services they want to due to costs and demand. NCVO are raising awareness of this as well as establishing resources and guidance. You can find out more information here

Night safety bus in Camden

Camden have recently launched a new safety bus to provide a safe space for anyone who needs help or support during a night out. The bus is in addition to Camden Safety Hub, opened last year.

The Camden Safety Hub and bus are part of a programme of ongoing work by Camden Council to improve safety at night, with a particular focus on making the borough as safe as possible for women and girls. Please spread the word to residents you support so they know how to access help if needed. You can also find the bus parked on Parkway, NW1 7PQ every Saturday between 9pm and 2.30am. To find out more about the Safety Hub and other safety initiatives, head to camden.gov.uk/camden-safety-hub 

SHAK Healthy Chef Project aims to tackle food inequality
Camden Council and the South Hampstead and Kilburn Community Partnership are encouraging residents to cook healthy and low cost meals through their Healthy Chef project. SHAK’s Health and Wellbeing Tutor was interviewed about the project.

Nationwide survey on AI in the social sector 
CAST has launched a nationwide survey to find out about the social sector’s needs in relation to AI. The anonymous survey should take no more than ten minutes to complete, and they are keen to hear from anyone who works for a charity or other social impact organisation.

Camden & Islington LGBT History Month 2024
forum+ is planning for Camden & Islington LGBT History Month 2024 and all the community is invited to join the festivities celebrating local LGBT culture, heritage and history. LGBT History Month takes place in February and submissions to the programme are welcome regardless of whether they are on the 2024 theme of Medicine – #UnderTheScope. Please email info@forumplus.org.uk to share your ideas and event details. More information.

Every week VAC checks various sources for the latest funding opportunities relevant for Camden groups.
You can visit our website for a round up of the latest opportunities added this week:  Search for Funding – Voluntary Action Camden (vac.org.uk)

If you need help sourcing or applying for funds, get in touch with our consultancy service, free for all Camden groups!

Energy support scheme for VCSEs
Groundwork are set to launch a new funding stream in the new year. Grants for energy efficiency improvements will be available for your community building in January 2024. This new funding for capital improvement can change your community building’s energy efficiency, subject to eligibility criteria. If you think this is for you please get more information here

Two Magpies fund for local charities and not for profits
Two Magpies is an organisation that funds projects supporting women who have experienced abuse and children growing up in poverty. They focus on charities working in Camden, Haringey, Islington and Westminster. Find out more here

Beacon Lodge Charitable Trust for the safety and care of children
Funding support for children, families and carers, Beacon Lodge is an independent grant-making charity inviting new applications from small charities and not for profit companies with an annual income of under £200,000. New applications will open on the 31st of January 2024. 

Camden Community Festival Funding 2024-25
For events that encourage community participation and involvement – this fund aims to sustain and develop culture, creativity and community in Camden. Apply for support for your community event here

Future Camden Fund for Small Business
The Future Camden Fund is a programme to support small businesses to build a better future for Camden and its residents. VCS organisations can apply, with food co-ops, community kitchens, social enterprises and plant based businesses being a particularly good fit.

Camden 4 Community – Funding alerts and news for the VCSE 
Search for Funding – Voluntary Action Camden (vac.org.uk)                                                                  

VAC UPCOMING TRAINING:
Open to VAC Members only
If you are a voluntary service or group delivering services in Camden and are not a member of VAC, please join here: https://vac.org.uk/get-involved/membership

CAMDEN NEW GROUPS NETWORK
Monday 18th December, 12:30 

VAC is inviting you to participate in the Network’s online meeting on Monday, 18th of  December 2023 from 12:30 to 13:30. You will be meeting like-minded people and discuss the challenges they have met with and ways to deal with them. This is a closed group for peer support for anyone VAC have supported over the past year and for starting up groups and individuals that have contacted VAC recently or are thinking of contacting VAC for support in choosing how to register and what legal structures to choose from.
Those of you who have  missed the first meeting of the New Groups Network can still join in by following our MS Teams meeting link: CLICK HERE

For more information contact Vania Guetova at vguetova@vac.org.uk

Rethink Advocacy service is currently running a drop in advocacy session at the Greenwood Centre, 37 Greenwood Place, London, NW5 1LB for people with Learning Disabilities. Please come along on 19th December at 2pm.  Please call Sian Phillips 07483 332490 for more information.

Training Opportunities for Asylum Seekers, Refugees and Immigrant Artists
WE RESTART is a Charity that connects asylum seekers, refugees, and immigrant artists with educational and skills training opportunities, offering free advice sessions, and facilitating access to free AEB courses, (especially ESOL, English and numeracy).
Our team is accessible via email in Arabic, Ukrainian, and English. To learn more about how you can be a part of this initiative, please reach out to contact@werest.art. The project is supported by Mayor of London.

Winter Holiday Activities and Food programme

The Camden Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Winter programme will run from 27 December 2023 to 5 January 2024 and is open for children and young people aged 5 to 16 who live in Camden and are eligible for free school meals.
The programme offers free, fun activities and nutritional education – from learning to make healthy meals, to creative activities, including photography, drama, arts and crafts, and sports such as football and basketball. A free hot meal is included as part of each day’s activities. The Camden HAF programme is co-ordinated by Young Camden Foundation on behalf of Camden Council, with funding from the Department for Education.
To find out more and book your places, visit haf.youngcamdenfoundation.org.uk, or if you have any questions please email info@youngcamdenfoundation.org.uk

Connect with Talk for Health’s peer support groups
For those looking for a deeper discussion and opportunity to improve their emotional health, Talk to Health are hosting a number of events to introduce people to their counselling programme. Join them for a taster session at Islington Town Hall on Tuesday 9th January or their full wellbeing programme starting Saturday 13th January.

Part time Community Animator – OK Club, South Kilburn 
Connecting with local people to build community in South Kilburn.

This is a new role that will use an asset based community development approach, engaging with the passions, gifts and skills of local people and developing the OK Club as a community asset. You will be someone who loves imaginging possibilities and working towards enabling others to turn ideas into reality.
Closing date 8th Jan 2024. Job description can be found here.

The Childrens Society has new roles in their new Wellbeing Hub
They are looking for a:
Service Manager, 35 hours per week – details can be found on the website. Closing date: 31/12/2023.
– Volunteer Coordinator, 35 hours per week. Closing date: 19/12/2023.
– Finance manager, 24.5 hrs per week.
 Closing date: 17/12/2023.

Chef Manager: Kentish Town Social Enterprise Café 
Unity Works are seeking an experienced and enthusiastic individual to manage a social enterprise café in Kentish Town. The Cafe Manager will support and train people with a learning disability, whilst being responsible for the overall management and performance of the cafe. This role will include training catering tasks such as barista skills, customer service and culinary skills, and working in a dynamic team to provide a professional service delivering high quality food and drinks to the local community.

VCC Xmas volunteering roles 
Does your organisation have Christmas, Hanukkah or New Year’s volunteering roles? We’re currently gathering a list for people who are looking for volunteering for Christmas. Got something? Email sheila@volunteercentrecamden.org.uk 

Seeking Trustees with IT skills
Santé Refugee Mental Health Access Project are looking for new trustees. Please contact appletonruth@gmail.com.

Volunteering in Camden survey
VCC want to identify the latest volunteering trends and challenges in Camden. This anonymous survey will help VCC to focus their support in the areas that are needed the most. It will take approximately 2-4mins to complete: Survey

Local NHS Board looking for residents to join Data Access Group
NHS North Central London Integrated Care Board want to prevent people getting sick, act sooner when they do, support them to best manage their own health, and reduce health inequalities. To support this, they are resourcing the use of secondary data to identify needs, enable better prevention, more proactive care, and improve access and care pathways. Find out more here

Nominations for SMK National Campaigner Awards are now open
Each year, SMK celebrates the best campaigns and campaigners. Their interest is in finding those who have made change happen – most effectively, creatively and courageously. What all nominees have in common is the determination to secure a specific change that will make things better. Submit your nomination.

Local VCS Newsletters:

SHAK
Young Camden Foundation (Funding Newsletter)
Young Camden Foundation (Events and Training Newsletter)
AWN (sign up)
Fitzrovia Community Centre
Coram’s Field Community Newsletter (sign up)
CAWH newsletter
St Pancras Community Association (sign up)
Castlehaven in Bloom (sign up)
UCL Volunteering Service Newsletter (sign up)
Latin American House
London Irish Centre (sign up)
Castlehaven Community Association (sign up)
Heath Hands
Age UK Camden (sign up)
Somers Town People’s Museum

If you would like your Camden VCS newsletter added to this list, please email social@vac.org.uk

Looking for a previous newsletter entry? Find it in our archive here

Find presentations, recordings and resources from past forums here

Got an item for the e-bulletin?

Send your item to social@vac.org.uk by noon on Wednesday for publication in the following Friday’s edition. Submissions should be 50 – 75 words. Please send plain text or a format that can be copied (ie not embedded in an image). Send links to documents rather than attachments. Make sure to include contact details.

Become a Member

Forwarded VAC newsletter by a colleague?

Opt in to receive VAC e-newsletter direct to your inbox

Copyright © 2021 |Voluntary Action Camden | All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
Greenwood Centre, Greenwood Place, London, NW5 1LB

Registered Charity Number 880216. Company Limited by Guarantee registered in England No: 2388150. Registered Office: Belmont Street, London, NW1 8HF

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VAC E-Bulletin 8th December 2023


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VAC Weekly Newsletter
8th December 2023

Navigate to:

Spotlight
What’s New
News and Policy
Funding
Events and Training
Jobs and Volunteering
Surveys, Resources and Opportunities

VAC Membership
VAC represents local organisations in conversations with local government and funders, we advise on local issues and we inform, support and train local charities depending on their needsIt’s completely free to sign up to be a member, and membership ensures you will be first to hear about all of the services we offer to the voluntary sector. 

Become a Member

VAC Training for Members

Upcoming training and events from VAC include:
  • New portal for funding opportunities launched with Camden Community Partnership team

See details and book a place in our Events and Training section

CONNECT  LEARN  SHARE

IDOX CAMDEN 4 COMMUNITY FUNDRAISING SEARCH PORTAL

Our hugely popular function for searching for funding is now available on our website. With thousands of avenues to search by area of work or category of organisation, as well as a help and advice section, this is a fantastic resource for local groups. Check it out here: Home | Voluntary Action Camden 4 Community (idoxopen4community.co.uk)

Camden & Islington LGBT History Month 2024
forum+ is planning for Camden & Islington LGBT History Month 2024 and all the community is invited to join the festivities celebrating local LGBT culture, heritage and history. LGBT History Month takes place in February and submissions to the programme are welcome regardless of whether they are on the 2024 theme of Medicine – #UnderTheScope. Please email info@forumplus.org.uk to share your ideas and event details. More information.

Make volunteering your New Year’s resolution and become a mentor at The Kids Network today!
The Kids Network are recruiting volunteers in Camden to mentor and inspire children aged 8-11. Whether you’re playing games or discussing goals, you’ll be making a difference to a child’s life by building their resilience and developing tools for a positive future.  The year long mentoring programme will teach you new things about yourself and provide full training and 1-1 support throughout.

Connect with Talk for Health’s peer support groups
For those looking for a deeper discussion and opportunity to improve their emotional health, Talk to Health are hosting a number of events to introduce people to their counselling programme. Join them for a taster session at Islington Town Hall on Tuesday 9th January or their full wellbeing programme starting Saturday 13th January.

Local NHS Board looking for residents to join Data Access Group
NHS North Central London Integrated Care Board want to prevent people getting sick, act sooner when they do, support them to best manage their own health, and reduce health inequalities. To support this, they are resourcing the use of secondary data to identify needs, enable better prevention, more proactive care, and improve access and care pathways. Find out more here

Nominations for SMK National Campaigner Awards are now open
Each year, SMK celebrates the best campaigns and campaigners. Their interest is in finding those who have made change happen – most effectively, creatively and courageously. What all nominees have in common is the determination to secure a specific change that will make things better. Submit your nomination.

People’s Museum Film Night and Christmas Party
On Friday 8th December, the People’s Museum will be showing three short films related to Somers Town History:
Statues Also Forget by Hanxiang Zhang, a reflective ethnographic documentary about the loss of St Pancras Housing Gilbert Bayes’ artworks
Mary’s Monster by J.F. Whitney + People’s Museum
Spirit! by Diana Foster
Grab your popcorn and come along from 6pm to see Somers Town on the big(ish) screen!
Please book to avoid disappointment. You can also book for the Christmas Party here.

Free Community Festival at the Likewise Centre
The Zen Project and Mind in Camden bring to you another of their monthly festivals to celebrate mental health and support the local Camden community. Open to all and all activities are free. Free food, massage, mindfulness sessions and more. Climb on board a big yellow American school bus and take part in activities to help create some calm and ease anxiety. Something for everyone. No need to book – just turn up. More information here.

Fake or Real News : Digital Information Skills Workshop 
Critical thinking is a vital skill for the work place and everyday life, particularly as being online more means we are exposed to lots of information. Learn more about engaging with information critically and evaluating different arguments in this free workshop from Birkbeck university. Book your place.

VAC Consultancy Service
Contact us today if you need advice or support to develop any aspect of your established or aspiring Camden voluntary and community sector organisation.
Learn more
here.
50 per cent increase in fundraising levy proposed
The Fundraising Regulator has announced it is opening a review to the charity sector on its proposal to increase the Fundraising Levy (the levy) for the first time since it was founded in 2016.NPC urges charities to centre lived experiences
NPC have developed a free guide to encourage charities and social enterprises to develop strategic approaches incorporating insight from lived experience.Thousands of charities face insecure tenancy and eviction
Charities across the country are at risk of eviction and closure due to tenancy agreements imposed by local authority landlords, according to new research.

Every week VAC checks various sources for the latest funding opportunities relevant for Camden groups.
You can visit our website for a round up of the latest opportunities added this week:  https://vac.org.uk/our-services/fundraising/current-funding-opportunities/

If you need help sourcing or applying for funds, get in touch with our consultancy service, free for all Camden groups!

Manchester Prize – tackle challenges with AI solutions
The Manchester Prize forms part of the government’s drive to put the UK at the forefront of the artificial intelligence (AI) revolution, supporting individuals and organisations developing innovate technologies.

The first Manchester Prize, running from December 2023 to March 2025, is seeking innovation from UK-led teams with breakthrough ideas for overcoming challenges in the fields of energy, the environment, and infrastructure.

Young people in outdoor learning experiences
UK Youth is offering grants for outdoor learning providers, city farms, and arts or environmental organisations whose primary purpose is the delivery of outdoor learning, to provide young people aged between 11 and 18 (or up to 25 for young people with SEND), with outdoor learning experiences that support personal development.

Forestry Commission launches £2.5m tree production grant
The Tree Production Capital Grant provides funding to help tree nurseries and suppliers invest in projects which improve, expand, automate or mechanise their operations. This will help improve the quantity, quality, diversity, and biosecurity of domestic tree supply.

Funding for projects promoting UK Fine Arts and Music 
Voluntary sector organisations across the UK can apply for funding to deliver projects and activities that promote, maintain, improve, and advance the education of the public in the arts, and in particular the fine arts and music.

Grants4Schools Funding Guide
This funding guide specifically for UK schools has been updated for 2024, providing information on the types of grants available as well as guidance on how to successfully apply for funding. 

Camden 4 Community – Funding alerts and news for the VCSE 
 https://funding.idoxopen4community.co.uk/camdencommunity 

More funding news and information on VAC website at 
https://vac.org.uk/guides-and-resources/fundraising/funders
                                                                   

VAC UPCOMING TRAINING:
Open to VAC Members only
If you are a voluntary service or group delivering services in Camden and are not a member of VAC, please join here: https://vac.org.uk/get-involved/membership

CAMDEN NEW GROUPS NETWORK
Monday 18th December, 12:30 

VAC is inviting you to participate in the Network’s online meeting on Monday, 18th of  December 2023 from 12:30 to 13:30. You will be meeting like-minded people and discuss the challenges they have met with and ways to deal with them. This is a closed group for peer support for anyone VAC have supported over the past year and for starting up groups and individuals that have contacted VAC recently or are thinking of contacting VAC for support in choosing how to register and what legal structures to choose from.
Those of you who have  missed the first meeting of the New Groups Network, please register for the event on Eventbrite to receive the next meeting’s link:
https://vac.org.uk/event/camden-new-groups-network-vac-exciting-new-project-3/
For more information contact Vania Guetova at vguetova@vac.org.uk
 

Training Opportunities for Asylum Seekers, Refugees and Immigrant Artists
WE RESTART is a Charity that connects asylum seekers, refugees, and immigrant artists with educational and skills training opportunities, offering free advice sessions, and facilitating access to free AEB courses, (especially ESOL, English and numeracy).
Our team is accessible via email in Arabic, Ukrainian, and English. To learn more about how you can be a part of this initiative, please reach out to contact@werest.art. The project is supported by Mayor of London.

Craft research and evaluation ideas at UCL’s Research Consultation Clinic
Join the UCL Community Research Initiative (CRIS@ucl.ac.uk) for a tailored consultation to develop a research or evaluation project brief aligning with your organization’s goals. Depart with your project brief(s), ready for posting on the virtual Community Noticeboard, reaching hundreds of research students eager to contribute to your work! Register for the event on Thursday, 25th January 2024 at Eventbrite.

Cost of living community workshops announced
The council are organising a series of community workshops to identify ways in which voluntary sector organisations, community and faith groups, public services and active citizens can work together to provide support to residents most impacted by the rising cost of living. This community response project will be making small grants of between £5,000 and £25,000 available to organisations to develop long-term partnerships that support and improve outcomes for those most impacted by poverty and economic exclusion. There are a number of workshops being held from Monday 4th December – Wednesday 13th December. To see details and find out more about the Cost of Living Fund, register your interest HERE.

Alternative COP Climate Conference for Londoners 
The Camden New Journal and Islington Tribune newspapers are hosting a COP climate conference at the London Irish Centre on Saturday, December 9, 2023. There will be panel discussions throughout the day as well as an eco Christmas market. Speakers include Mariana Mazzucato, Anna Minton, Kwajo Tweneboa and Roger Hallam. Entry is free. 

Age UK Camden launches Warm Heart Campaign 
Almost 1 in 4 older Londoners are now living in poverty and the number of Londoners over the age of 50 living in poverty has increased by 5% over the past decade. With many older residents in the borough now skipping meals and going without heating to save money, Age UK Camden is asking individuals and businesses to get involved and donate. All donations welcome, big or small. For example, if you are eligible for the winter fuel allowance, but don’t need it yourself, you could choose to donate the amount to help those who need it this winter.  All donations will be used within the borough of Camden to help deliver Age UK Camden’s vital services to older people.

Winter Holiday Activities and Food programme

The Camden Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Winter programme will run from 27 December 2023 to 5 January 2024 and is open for children and young people aged 5 to 16 who live in Camden and are eligible for free school meals.
The programme offers free, fun activities and nutritional education – from learning to make healthy meals, to creative activities, including photography, drama, arts and crafts, and sports such as football and basketball. A free hot meal is included as part of each day’s activities. The Camden HAF programme is co-ordinated by Young Camden Foundation on behalf of Camden Council, with funding from the Department for Education.
To find out more and book your places, visit haf.youngcamdenfoundation.org.uk, or if you have any questions please email info@youngcamdenfoundation.org.uk

Rethink Advocacy service is currently running a drop in advocacy session at the Greenwood Centre, 37 Greenwood Place, London, NW5 1LB for people with Learning Disabilities. Please come along on 19th December at 2pm.  Please call Sian Phillips 07483 332490 for more information.

Join us at ODAC on Tuesday 12th December to toast the end of the year with ODAC and Camden Giving.
2023 has been another great year at ODAC, with thousands of people from our vibrant community utilising our spaces weekly for creative endeavours, gatherings, and collaborative projects. And it has been for Camden Giving too, as they continue to ensure Camden’s wealth benefits citizens and grassroots charities.
Expect nibbles, entertainment and stalls and the opportunity to revel in the festive spirit!
RSVP by filling by clicking the invite above and filling in the form. If you RSVP, you’ll get your first drink free!

Chef Manager: Kentish Town Social Enterprise Café 
Unity Works are seeking an experienced and enthusiastic individual to manage a social enterprise café in Kentish Town. The Cafe Manager will support and train people with a learning disability, whilst being responsible for the overall management and performance of the cafe. This role will include training catering tasks such as barista skills, customer service and culinary skills, and working in a dynamic team to provide a professional service delivering high quality food and drinks to the local community.

Voluntary Maths and English Tutoring
Children from lower-income families are less likely to achieve academically than their better-off peers. We are looking for volunteers to support pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds in maths or English. As a volunteer, you’ll:
●        Work with 1-3 pupils to improve their English and maths, in-person or online
●        Commit to 10-20 weeks, for just one hour a week
●        Support either primary or secondary school-aged pupils
●        Use our workbooks to shape your weekly sessions
Sign up today

Becoming a school governor
Could you make a positive impact on a school in Camden? School governors are one of the largest groups of volunteers in the country. It’s a great opportunity to use your life experience and skills to make a real difference.

Camden Learning want to ensure that our school governing bodies reflect the diverse communities they serve. Find out more.

Impact Hub Community Engagement Manager Vacancy
The job advert for Impact Hub’s  Community Engagement Manager is now live – this role will be shared by Impact Hub  and Knowledge Quarter , and will be responsible for leading community engagement and outreach activities related to their  new space on Regent’s Place which opens in January 2024.
They are particularly interested in hiring someone with a local connection or lived experience.
All the details can be found on their website including details on how to apply.

VCC Xmas volunteering roles 
Does your organisation have Christmas, Hanukkah or New Year’s volunteering roles? We’re currently gathering a list for people who are looking for volunteering for Christmas. Got something? Email sheila@volunteercentrecamden.org.uk 

Seeking Trustees with IT skills
Santé Refugee Mental Health Access Project are looking for new trustees. Please contact appletonruth@gmail.com.

Prize winning opportunities in Easyfundraising’s Advent Calendar 
Open the Advent windows from 1 – 24 December for daily chances to win £100 for your organisation, charity, or CIC. Plus, every window opened is an automatic entry to win the big Christmas Day prize of £5,000! To take part, sign your organisation up here.
Through Easyfundraising, 8000 retailers including eBay, John Lewis, Tesco, M&S, Trainline and many more will donate money to your organisation when your supporters shop with them.

Interested in working in the NHS? 
If you are a resident of Camden, Islington, Haringey, Barnet or Enfield and are either unemployed, underemployed and/or have barriers into employment – you are eligible for this free programme. You will be enrolled onto two week pre-employment training, which will match you to entry level roles in primary care.

If you think this might be for you, come and have an informal chat at Training Link, 54-56 Phoenix Road, NW1 1ES.
Email: operations@traininglink.org.uk Phone: 020 73835405

Local VCS Newsletters:

SHAK
Young Camden Foundation (Funding Newsletter)
Young Camden Foundation (Events and Training Newsletter)
AWN (sign up)
Fitzrovia Community Centre
Coram’s Field Community Newsletter (sign up)
CAWH newsletter
St Pancras Community Association (sign up)
Castlehaven in Bloom (sign up)
UCL Volunteering Service Newsletter (sign up)
Latin American House
London Irish Centre (sign up)
Castlehaven Community Association (sign up)
Heath Hands
Age UK Camden (sign up)
Somers Town People’s Museum

If you would like your Camden VCS newsletter added to this list, please email social@vac.org.uk

Looking for a previous newsletter entry? Find it in our archive here

Find presentations, recordings and resources from past forums here

Got an item for the e-bulletin?

Send your item to social@vac.org.uk by noon on Wednesday for publication in the following Friday’s edition. Submissions should be 50 – 75 words. Please send plain text or a format that can be copied (ie not embedded in an image). Send links to documents rather than attachments. Make sure to include contact details.

Ways to Get Involved

Join us on social media

Become a Member

Forwarded VAC newsletter by a colleague?

Opt in to receive VAC e-newsletter direct to your inbox

Copyright © 2021 |Voluntary Action Camden | All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
Greenwood Centre, Greenwood Place, London, NW5 1LB

Registered Charity Number 880216. Company Limited by Guarantee registered in England No: 2388150. Registered Office: Belmont Street, London, NW1 8HF

Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list.


 

 

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VAC e-bulletin 1st December 2023

 

View this email in your browser

 

 

Opt in to receive VAC e-newsletter direct to your inbox
 

VAC Weekly Newsletter
1st December 2023

Navigate to:

Spotlight
What’s New
News and Policy
Funding
Events and Training
Jobs and Volunteering
Surveys, Resources and Opportunities

 

 

 

VAC Membership
VAC represents local organisations in conversations with local government and funders, we advise on local issues and we inform, support and train local charities depending on their needsIt’s completely free to sign up to be a member, and membership ensures you will be first to hear about all of the services we offer to the voluntary sector. 

 

 

Become a Member
 

VAC Training for Members

Upcoming training and events from VAC include:
  • CAMDEN NEW GROUPS NETWORK  peer support meeting

See details and book a place in our Events and Training section

CONNECT  LEARN  SHARE

VAC NEW GROUPS NETWORK 

This is a Network for all the new groups that VAC have provided with consultancy support recently and for any community group or individual considering starting a charity, social enterprise or community group. The Network will be discussing the common challenges and requirements that you face when starting a new charity, social enterprise, or community group. You will have the opportunity to share experiences with others and seek the advice and support of your peers. If you want to join email Vania at vguetova@vac.org.uk

 

 

 

Training Opportunities for Asylum Seekers, Refugees and Immigrant Artists
WE RESTART is a Charity that connects asylum seekers, refugees, and immigrant artists with educational and skills training opportunities, offering free advice sessions, and facilitating access to free AEB courses, (especially ESOL, English and numeracy).
Our team is accessible via email in Arabic, Ukrainian, and English. To learn more about how you can be a part of this initiative, please reach out to contact@werest.art. The project is supported by Mayor of London.

Craft research and evaluation ideas at UCL’s Research Consultation Clinic
Join the UCL Community Research Initiative (CRIS@ucl.ac.uk) for a tailored consultation to develop a research or evaluation project brief aligning with your organization’s goals. Depart with your project brief(s), ready for posting on the virtual Community Noticeboard, reaching hundreds of research students eager to contribute to your work! Register for the event on Thursday, 25th January 2024 at Eventbrite.

Interested in working in the NHS? 
If you are a resident of Camden, Islington, Haringey, Barnet or Enfield and are either unemployed, underemployed and/or have barriers into employment – you are eligible for this free programme. You will be enrolled onto two week pre-employment training, which will match you to entry level roles in primary care.

If you think this might be for you, come and have an informal chat at Training Link, 54-56 Phoenix Road, NW1 1ES.
Email: operations@traininglink.org.uk Phone: 020 73835405

Talks and Research from Camden Historical Society
Camden Historical Society have a collection of historical publications, including articles on how Camden got its name and other Camdens around the world, as well as a series of upcoming talks and events on local history. 

Chef Manager: Kentish Town Social Enterprise Café 
Unity Works are seeking an experienced and enthusiastic individual to manage a social enterprise café in Kentish Town. The Cafe Manager will support and train people with a learning disability, whilst being responsible for the overall management and performance of the cafe. This role will include training catering tasks such as barista skills, customer service and culinary skills, and working in a dynamic team to provide a professional service delivering high quality food and drinks to the local community.

Prize winning opportunities in Easyfundraising’s Advent Calendar 
Open the Advent windows from 1 – 24 December for daily chances to win £100 for your organisation, charity, or CIC. Plus, every window opened is an automatic entry to win the big Christmas Day prize of £5,000! To take part, sign your organisation up here.
Through Easyfundraising, 8000 retailers including eBay, John Lewis, Tesco, M&S, Trainline and many more will donate money to your organisation when your supporters shop with them.

Introducing our new Communications Officer
The newest member of our team is Communications Officer, Duncan Cordy, who will be responsible for our newsletter and other communications channels. You can contact Duncan with submissions for the newsletter and any other communications enquiries at social@vac.org.uk

Please send any information (approximately 50-75 words long) that you would like included in our weekly newsletter to social@vac.org.uk by no later than 12pm on Wednesday for inclusion in the Friday newsletter. 

 

 

 

VAC Consultancy Service
Contact us today if you need advice or support to develop any aspect of your established or aspiring Camden voluntary and community sector organisation.
Learn more
here 

The Audience Agency announce merger with Culture24

The Audience Agency have announced a merger with Culture24, bringing together two established and trusted independent charities with a shared mission and values. Find out more about the new merger here.

London Engagement Collaborative Launches for a second year
The London Engagement Collaborative (LEC) is a pan-London, cross-sector network for anyone interested in working together to involve communities in the work to make London a safer, greener, and more prosperous city for all Londoners. You can sign up to their upcoming event at Lift Islington, on Wednesday 6th December.

UK Charity Week set to take place 4-8 December 2023
This year’s UK Charity Week, sponsored by Sinclair Method UK, is taking place from Monday 4 – Friday 8 December 2023, please refer to the campaign’s website for all the latest public resources and information.

How to get involved with UK Charity Week                                                                       
A supporter’s pack containing social media assets, website banners, posters and a supporters badge, along with suggestions for how charities can get involved, is available to download here

In a move that promises to infuse fresh energy into this year’s UK Charity Week, the organisers have unveiled a partnership with the beloved Charity Radio podcast. With the campaign set to kick off in December (4th-8th), this collaboration aims to continue shining a spotlight on charities and their inspiring stories.

 

 

 

Every week VAC checks various sources for the latest funding opportunities relevant for Camden groups.
You can visit our website for a round up of the latest opportunities added this week:  https://vac.org.uk/our-services/fundraising/current-funding-opportunities/

If you need help sourcing or applying for funds, get in touch with our consultancy service, free for all Camden groups!

Funding to Support Youth-Led Social Action Across the UK
Co-op Foundation, in partnership with Co-op and the #iwill Fund, is offering grants of up to £20,000 for groups to support young activists, campaigners, disrupters, co-operates, and social entrepreneurs to lead social action to improve their communities and build upon Co-op’s vision of ‘Co-operating for a Fairer World’.

Application Deadline: 19 December 2023.

Disability Justice Fund 
Trust for London want to fund organisations fighting for the rights of Disabled people, and work that contributes to growing, broadening and diversifying the Disability movement.. This includes work that strengthens the ability of DDPOs to engage in campaigning, policy, advocacy and to push for change. Or projects that enable DDPOs to do behind the scenes work so that they can be better run. 

Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund
The Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) will upgrade a significant amount of the social housing stock currently below Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) band C up to that standard. It will support the installation of energy performance measures in social homes in England. Find out more.

Grants4Schools Funding Guide
This funding guide specifically for UK schools has been updated for 2024, providing information on the types of grants available as well as guidance on how to successfully apply for funding. 

Camden 4 Community – Funding alerts and news for the VCSE 
 https://funding.idoxopen4community.co.uk/camdencommunity 

More funding news and information on VAC website at 
https://vac.org.uk/guides-and-resources/fundraising/funders
                                                                   

 

 

 

VAC UPCOMING TRAINING:
Open to VAC Members only
If you are a voluntary service or group delivering services in Camden and are not a member of VAC, please join here: https://vac.org.uk/get-involved/membership

CAMDEN NEW GROUPS NETWORK
Monday 18th December, 12:30 

VAC is inviting you to participate in the Network’s online meeting on Monday, 18th of  December 2023 from 12:30 to 13:30. You will be meeting like-minded people and discuss the challenges they have met with and ways to deal with them. This is a closed group for peer support for anyone VAC have supported over the past year and for starting up groups and individuals that have contacted VAC recently or are thinking of contacting VAC for support in choosing how to register and what legal structures to choose from.
Those of you who have  missed the first meeting of the New Groups Network, please register for the event on Eventbrite to receive the next meeting’s link:
https://vac.org.uk/event/camden-new-groups-network-vac-exciting-new-project-3/
For more information contact Vania Guetova at vguetova@vac.org.uk
 

BOLO Business Podcast Live Panel  

Camden Town Hall 1st December Free –  Black Owned London (BOLO) bring you this business podcast, the live final episode of a series looking at inspiring individuals seizing opportunities. It will be an interactive panel discussion inviting audience engagement – a great opportunity to celebrate Black businesses, leadership, and the vibrant culture of Camden.  Full information

Camden’s Disability Oversight Panel
Invites all disabled residents, carers and supporting VSC organisations to attend its forthcoming public engagement session ‘The Housing Allocations Journey – hearing from you’.* This is taking place on Tuesday 5 December 2023 at The Crowndale Centre, 218 Eversholt Street .
With BSL Interpreters and Caption/ Speech to Text Support. You can contact disabilityoversight@camden.gov.uk or call 0207 9743 578 to register, and for transport help.

Cost of living community workshops announced
The council are organising a series of community workshops to identify ways in which voluntary sector organisations, community and faith groups, public services and active citizens can work together to provide support to residents most impacted by the rising cost of living. This community response project will be making small grants of between £5,000 and £25,000 available to organisations to develop long-term partnerships that support and improve outcomes for those most impacted by poverty and economic exclusion. There are a number of workshops being held from Monday 4th December – Wednesday 13th December. To see details and find out more about the Cost of Living Fund, register your interest HERE.

Alternative COP Climate Conference for Londoners 
The Camden New Journal and Islington Tribune newspapers are hosting a COP climate conference at the London Irish Centre on Saturday, December 9, 2023. There will be panel discussions throughout the day as well as an eco Christmas market. Speakers include Mariana Mazzucato, Anna Minton, Kwajo Tweneboa and Roger Hallam. Entry is free. 

Find out more about Census 2021 Outputs
Camden Council is putting on a briefing on the Census 2021 outputs. Come and find out more about the outputs of the 2021 and have your say on how to improve access and usability. Register your interest on Eventbrite.

Age UK launches Warm Heart Camden Campaign 
Almost 1 in 4 older Londoners are now living in poverty and the number of Londoners over the age of 50 living in poverty has increased by 5% over the past decade. With many older residents in the borough now skipping meals and going without heating to save money, Age UK Camden is asking individuals and businesses to get involved and donate. All donations welcome, big or small. For example, if you are eligible for the winter fuel allowance, but don’t need it yourself, you could choose to donate the amount to help those who need it this winter.  All donations will be used within the borough of Camden to help deliver Age UK Camden’s vital services to older people.

Community snow clearing 
Every winter Camden council grit key roads and footpaths in Camden. If you’re able to, you can also help keep your local pavements clear from snow and ice for your community.
Camden residents and community groups can be provided with snow shovels and bags of grit salt for this. Find out more about this offer, our library stall giveaways and request free snow shovels and grit here.

Winter Holiday Activities and Food programme

The Camden Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Winter programme will run from 27 December 2023 to 5 January 2024 and is open for children and young people aged 5 to 16 who live in Camden and are eligible for free school meals.
The programme offers free, fun activities and nutritional education – from learning to make healthy meals, to creative activities, including photography, drama, arts and crafts, and sports such as football and basketball. A free hot meal is included as part of each day’s activities. The Camden HAF programme is co-ordinated by Young Camden Foundation on behalf of Camden Council, with funding from the Department for Education.
To find out more and book your places, visit haf.youngcamdenfoundation.org.uk, or if you have any questions please email info@youngcamdenfoundation.org.uk

Rethink Advocacy service is currently running a drop in advocacy session at the Greenwood Centre, 37 Greenwood Place, London, NW5 1LB for people with Learning Disabilities. Please come along on 19th December at 2pm.  Please call Sian Phillips 07483 332490 for more information.

Join us at ODAC on Tuesday 12th December to toast the end of the year with ODAC and Camden Giving.
2023 has been another great year at ODAC, with thousands of people from our vibrant community utilising our spaces weekly for creative endeavours, gatherings, and collaborative projects. And it has been for Camden Giving too, as they continue to ensure Camden’s wealth benefits citizens and grassroots charities.
Expect nibbles, entertainment and stalls and the opportunity to revel in the festive spirit!
RSVP by filling by clicking the invite above and filling in the form. If you RSVP, you’ll get your first drink free!

 

 

 

Voluntary Maths and English Tutoring
Children from lower-income families are less likely to achieve academically than their better-off peers. We are looking for volunteers to support pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds in maths or English. As a volunteer, you’ll:
●        Work with 1-3 pupils to improve their English and maths, in-person or online
●        Commit to 10-20 weeks, for just one hour a week
●        Support either primary or secondary school-aged pupils
●        Use our workbooks to shape your weekly sessions
Sign up today

Becoming a school governor
Could you make a positive impact on a school in Camden? School governors are one of the largest groups of volunteers in the country. It’s a great opportunity to use your life experience and skills to make a real difference.

Camden Learning want to ensure that our school governing bodies reflect the diverse communities they serve. Find out more.

Mind in Camden Is Recruiting
There is a vacancy for a Mental Health Link Worker at Mind in Camden, which is a part-time fixed term position with a probable extension. The closing date for applications is 13.00 on Tuesday 5th December 2023. You can find out more information here

Impact Hub Community Engagement Manager Vacancy
The job advert for Impact Hub’s  Community Engagement Manager is now live – this role will be shared by Impact Hub  and Knowledge Quarter , and will be responsible for leading community engagement and outreach activities related to their  new space on Regent’s Place which opens in January 2024.
They are particularly interested in hiring someone with a local connection or lived experience.
All the details can be found on their website including details on how to apply.

Volunteer Centre Camden:

VCC Xmas volunteering roles 
Does your organisation have Christmas, Hanukkah or New Year’s volunteering roles? We’re currently gathering a list for people who are looking for volunteering for Christmas. Got something? Email sheila@volunteercentrecamden.org.uk 

Make a difference in your community – join Castlehaven’s Board of Trustees! 

Castlehaven Community Association are recruiting trustees with finance, IT, environment, equality, diversity, and inclusion skills who can offer their expertise and share their vision. Applications from all backgrounds are encouraged, especially those who live and work in Camden. Email ernie@castlehaven.org.uk to request an application pack and help shape CCA’s future.

 

 

 

Local VCS Newsletters:

SHAK
Young Camden Foundation (Funding Newsletter)
Young Camden Foundation (Events and Training Newsletter)
AWN (sign up)
Fitzrovia Community Centre
Coram’s Field Community Newsletter (sign up)
CAWH newsletter
St Pancras Community Association (sign up)
Castlehaven in Bloom (sign up)
UCL Volunteering Service Newsletter (sign up)
Latin American House
London Irish Centre (sign up)
Castlehaven Community Association (sign up)
Heath Hands
Age UK (sign up)

If you would like your Camden VCS newsletter added to this list, please email social@vac.org.uk

Looking for a previous newsletter entry? Find it in our archive here

Find presentations, recordings and resources from past forums here

 

 

 

Got an item for the e-bulletin?

 

 

 

Send your item to social@vac.org.uk by noon on Wednesday for publication in the following Friday’s edition. Submissions should be 50 – 75 words. Please send plain text or a format that can be copied (ie not embedded in an image). Send links to documents rather than attachments. Make sure to include contact details.

 

 

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