Voluntary Action Camden

Voluntary Action Camden e-Bulletin 26th June 2015

Highlights: £20M Local Sustainability Fund Launched; Engagement event for Voluntary and Community Organisations Only; Camden’s Centre for Independent Living Engagement Event; Opening Doors London recognised in the Pride Power List 2015; VAC’s Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) training ; How should the government prepare for an ageing population; Age UK London Techy Tea Party; The Spark 2015 events; Fitzrovia Garden Party; Charity Fair; plus news, funding, events, jobs, volunteering and more.

NEWS

Engagement event for Voluntary and Community Organisations Only
30th June 2pm – 4pm. At VAC offices, 299 Kentish Town Rd, NW5
The Council is seeking VCS views on alternative approaches to developing a new grants programme for the sector. Four options are proposed for comment which range from improving the current mixed-funding model to a more radical collective impact approach, co-ordinating a partnership around a geographic area or a theme. The sector’s views will be used to develop a preferred approach that is likely to be a mix of the options. The engagement document and survey are available here www.camden.gov.uk/vcsengagement
As part of the eight week engagement process, Voluntary Action Camden has organised these two events for the sector only, with no council officers present, in order to give the sector an opportunity for a full and frank discussion. Please email Ricky/Monica, Building Administrator to book your place.

Camden’s Centre for Independent Living Engagement Event
Thursday 2nd July, 2-5pm, Room 10.10, 5 Pancras Square, London N1C 4AG
“Camden’s Centre for Independent Living will be based at Greenwood Place – a new community resource centre being built in Kentish Town, due to open in January 2018.
The purpose of this event is to bring together representatives from a range of voluntary and community sector organisations who have an interest in coproducing this service. It will include discussions around:
• What the CIL space within the resource centre should look like
We will be providing copies of floor plans and looking at the best use of the space
• What services the CIL should provide
We would like the CIL service offer to be as varied and inclusive as possible
• How the CIL should be run
We would like to canvas your opinions on a management model
It will also be an opportunity to discuss the visions for both the Greenwood centre and the CIL service, and to share likely timescales.”
Places are limited and confirmed names will be required to gain access to the building.
Please book your place by calling Ellie Chesterman on 0207 974 3178 or email: eleanor.chesterman@camden.gov.uk
We will send you confirmation of your place by email or by post.
Please also get in touch if you have any access or communication requirements.

New £20m Local Sustainability Fund Announced
Yesterday the Cabinet Office finally announced the Local Sustainability Fund. The fund has been talked about by Ministers since 2013 and was initially thought to be £60M, then in 2014 there was a consultation on a £40M fund. You can find out more at http://vcsediagnostic.org.uk/
The webste requires you to login and then complete a diagnostic tool and an eligibility tool to find out if you are eligible. The site requires you to register and complete the diagnostic tool as apparently “many organisations which provide much needed services to local communities don’t always have the capacity, skills or tools to identify how they need to change and plan for the future.” The site warns that the diagnostic tool “takes about an hour to complete.”

Opening Doors London recognised in the Pride Power List 2015
Opening Doors London, the regional LGBT older people’s service based at Age UK Camden and run in partnership with Age UK London has been recognised in the Pride Power List 2015.
See the full list at http://www.worldpridepowerlist.com/
Opening Doors also feature in an article in The Guardian

Places are available on VAC’s next Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) training course.
Thursday 2nd July and Thursday 9th July (9.30am to 5pm both days).
This internationally recognised course will be of interest to parents, youth workers, teachers, those who support young people, or anyone who wants to learn about mental health. Full details in the ‘VAC Events’ section below.

National News
Camden Police on the BBC
This week’s edition of The Met: Policing London featured Camden storyline. View again on the BBC iplayer.
Disabled people’s rights threatened by government cuts, campaigners warn
A letter signed by more than 100 charities and the Mencap president, Brian Rix, said decades of advances for those with learning disabilities could be lost. Full story in the Guardian. As part of protests marking the closure of the Independent Living Fund there were protests in Westminster where police and protesters clashed according to the Independent and even coverage on the BBC.
Volunteers are fantastic – but it’s wrong for Martyn Lewis to say they are always the cheaper choice
Awarding public sector contracts to volunteering groups is all well and good, but it needs to be properly thought through – and costed. Full story in the Daily Telegraph.

Sector Pulls in Millions into the borough
In response to the council’s current consultation with the sector, the Camden New Journal has published a letter that points out that the voluntary sector in Camden pulls in many millions into the borough from external sources, using the Council’s funding as seed corn. The letter warns that some organisations will fold if they are not able to adequately plan for the future.

How should the government prepare for an ageing population?
The Guardian’s Big Ageing Population Debate series has explored these issues and as an extension to the project, we’re hosting an event in London on Tuesday 7 July 2015. The event, chaired by Patrick Butler, the Guardian’s editor of society, health and education policy, will feature an expert panel who will discuss the above questions and more. Full details on the Guardian website.

Age UK London AstraZeneca Techy Tea Party
14 July, 2pm to 4pm at: Guoman Grosvenor Hotel, 101 Buckingham Palace Rd, London SW1W 0SJ
This is a great opportunity for members of groups, forums and older peoples organisations across London to discover how social media eg Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Skype etc. can help save money, cut costs and work smarter by using these many free resources that are available on the internet. There will be tablet computers available to use on the day.
Booking is via the event brite link http://techyteaastrazeneca.eventbrite.co.uk

The Spark 2015: A Free week of discussion, workshops, film, poetry music 20 – 26 July
All looking at how we can build positive change here in the UK and around the world
Find out more & register at www.thesparkspace.org
This free-to-attend week of events takes place at the Brady Arts Centre, Whitechapel, London, from 20th – 26th July. Each day runs from 10am – 9pm.
There will be sessions on a wide range of topics from ‘How gentrification affects communities and what we can do about it’, to ‘The Colonial Past & Present and the fight for our future’, ‘How to make your own short film… on your mobile!’, to ‘Write your own spoken word poetry,’ to ‘Stop and Search training for young people’, and many, many more. Full timetable & register at www.thesparkspace.org/timetable

Learn to do Your Poems Justice
A Workshop with Eve Pearce (LGSM Speech & Drama) Tuesday 7 July 2015, 7pm – 9.30pm
Reduce your stage nerves, project with presence and let your poems speak!
For poets, and anyone wishing to increase their confidence in public speaking. Using your own and other work by well known poets, we will work on:
Breathing – Projection – Posture – Connecting with the audience – Using the imagination – Stage presence
Eve Pearce is a veteran actress who has played leading parts with the RSC and National Theatre and made countless appearances on TV and film. Her first poetry collection ‘Capturing Snowflakes’ (Greenheart Press) was published in 2012, following her pamphlet ‘Woman in Winter’ (Hearing Eye).
Venue: Torriano Meeting House, Torriano Avenue, Kentish Town NW5 2RX
Nearest Tube: Kentish Town; Buses: 134, C2, 390 and 393
Cost: £12, £9 concessions
Doors open: 6.30pm for 7pm start. Please be prompt.
Please bring two copies of a poem you’d like to work on
To book a place: telephone 01424 719570 or email david@socialspider.com

Fitzrovia Garden Party Featuring live music from Upbeat
July 4th 12-4pmFitzrovia Community Centre, 2 Foley Street, London W1W 6DL http://www.upbeatmusic.org/

Charity Fair from Directory of Social Change
30th June and 1st July, Holloway Road
Whatever your role in the sector, there is training for you here: Charityfair has 64 workshops, from only £35, covering a huge variety of topics including fundraising, management & leadership, marketing, governance, personal development, legal & finance, wellbeing, campaigning & lobbying and organisational support.
More information and booking at www.charityfair.org.uk.

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

Hopscotch, The Latin American House’s Menchú Nursery, Street Step, C4, Helios Health, Year Here, Volunteer Centre Camden, Age Uk Camden, 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

FUNDING NEWS

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

Fundraising opportunities for small charities The Brandenburg Choral Festival of London
The Brandenburg Choral Festival of London is offering small charities the opportunity to raise funds by selling tickets to its choral concerts this Autumn.
Charities raise funds by selling tickets to their supporters for a concert selected from the Festival programme and retaining a share (up to 50%) of the value of tickets sold. There are 22 concerts to choose from, ranging from Fauré and Brahms Requiems to concerts featuring jazz, folk and soul, and all are held at prestigious central London venues including St Martin-in-theFields, St Clement Danes, Temple Church and the Queen’s Chapel of the Savoy. A maximum of two charities will be allocated to a concert. Each charity will be given its own allocation of tickets, separate from the main box office allocation, and there is no financial commitment to pay for any unsold tickets. Reception opportunities are available at most concerts.
This is the third year the Festival has been running the fundraising initiative; to date, over 70 small charities have participated including: The AMAR Foundation, Respond, Dyslexia Research Trust, The Circle Works and Prader Willi Syndrome Association UK.
Interested charities should get in touch with Brandenburg straight away as the process of allocating concerts to charities for this Autumn will begin on 22 June.
Further information For details, including a copy of the ‘Fundraising with Brandenburg’ leaflet and a list of the Autumn Series concerts, please contact:
Claudia Jenkins, Development Officer – Brandenburg Choral Festival of London
Email: dev@brandenburg.org.uk Phone: 07973 564533 / 01372 209817
Information about the Festival, including a list of charity partners, can be found at:
www.brandenburg.org.uk. Follow on Twitter: @BrandenburgFest

Statement from the Big Lottery Regarding Applications in Camden for Older People’s Projects
“Some voluntary organisations have been wondering if the Big Lottery Ageing Better in Camden funding prevents them from applying to the Big Lottery for their own older people’s projects and services. The answer is ‘NO! Keep Applying!’
The Big Lottery Reaching Communities Programme assess each application on its merits and its fit with the programme requirements, considering its awareness and links with other activities already taking place in the area. This often includes whether applications are complementary to other investments that we have already made within an area and where suitable other services that are being delivered.
It is highly unlikely that an application to Reaching Communities or our other open programmes would be rejected solely on the basis of Ageing Better or other funding being awarded to the same area, unless there was clear duplication. If anyone has any examples of Ageing Better in Camden being the sole reason they weren’t funded for another project, please let Ageing Better in Camden know and they will raise the issue with their Big Lottery Funding Officer.”

Money Advice Trust – Innovation Grants Programme Open
The Money Advice Trust Innovation Grants Programme offers grants of up to £30,000 per year for up to three years to charitable organisations in the UK.
Funding is available for projects that demonstrate innovative practice and meet either aim 1 or 2 whilst assisting the Trust in achieving aim 3:
Empower individuals and microbusinesses to tackle their debts and improve financial health.
Support staff in charities across the UK to provide effective debt and/or money advice.
Improve the UK’s money and debt environment through the dissemination of successful innovative practice from funded projects.
The Trust is looking for project proposals that demonstrate how they will support individuals or microbusinesses who are in severe financial hardship, who are financially excluded and/or who are hard to reach to:
Increase their financial literacy.
The deadline for Expressions of Interest is 4 July 2015 (midnight).
Further information is Here

Building Better Opportunities
Building Better Opportunities brings together money from the Big Lottery Fund and the European Social Fund 2014-2020 to provide joint investment in local projects that tackle poverty and promote social inclusion.
The programmes in London include support for economically inactive and long term unemployed women from BAME communities, as well as for those with caring responsibilities. It also includes an intermediate labour market (ILM) programme for people with disabilities who have spent long periods out of work.
In addition to the Project Outlines, additional information for each of these programmes can be found here on the London Enterprise Panel’s website.
Assessment of applications to the Big Lottery Fund will include consideration of how well applications address the information published in the additional information documents as well as in the Project Outlines.
The Big Lottery Fund Project Outlines can be accessed here.
While details about the application process can be found here.
The deadline for applications is 12 Noon on Monday 3rd August.

Skipton Building Society Grassroots Giving 2015 Now Open
Skipton Building Society launched its award-winning Grassroots Giving programme in 2013 to help celebrate its 160th anniversary. That year we gave away 160 pots of £500 to deserving community-based organisations across the UK. This year 162 £500 awards will be made. Note that this is aimed at small community groups and excludes registered charities. Skipton have also published some useful resources. Full details and FAQ here.

Crowdfunding?
Don’t forget that there is a dedicated page on Spacehive just for Camden projects. And set up costs are free to Camden groups. Find out more at Spacehive Camden.

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

VAC EVENTS

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

Mental health courses and workshops from VAC
To book your place, 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 based in Camden or which serve Camden residents. Places are limited on each course to a maximum of two people per organisation.
If you have any queries about our training, please contact us on our new email address: mentalhealthteam@vac.org.uk.

Places are available on VAC’s next Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) training course.
This will take place over two full days on Thursday 2nd July and Thursday 9th July (9.30am to 5pm both days).
This internationally recognised course will be of interest to parents, youth workers, teachers, those who support young people, or anyone who wants to learn more about mental health.
The YMHFA course will teach you to:
• Spot the early signs of a mental health problem in a young person
• Feel confident helping a young person experiencing a problem
• Provide help on a first aid basis
• Help protect a young person who might be at risk of harm
• Help prevent a mental illness from getting worse
• Help a young person recover faster
• Guide a young person towards the right support
• Reduce the stigma of mental health problems
Participants will receive a copy of the YMHFA manual and certificate on completion of the course. Please see the attached flyer for more information.
The training is highly subsidised at only £25 per person. To book your place and pay by card via Evenbrite please go to: https://vac.org.uk/events/category/health-mental-health/
Please note that VAC can only accept bookings from organisations based in Camden or which serve Camden residents. Places are limited on each course to a maximum of two people per organisation.
If you have any questions please contact the Mental Health Team on: mentalhealthteam@vac.org.uk or call 020 7284 6550.

OTHER EVENTS

Older People’s Manifesto for London Mayoral Elections 2016 Consultation Event
Age UK London will be publishing an Older People’s Manifesto ahead of the 2015 London Mayoral Elections and we want to know what you think should be included.
We want to hear about the issues that concern you and you will get the opportunity, through table discussions, to input into the age UK London Mayoral Election 2015 Manifesto.
The Manifesto will only cover issues that are under Mayoral authority.
Thursday 16th July, 14.00pm-16.30pm, at Bloomsbury Central Baptist Church, 235 Shaftesbury Avenue, London, WC2H 8EP (entrance on the A400 between Bucknall Street and Shaftesbury Avenue)
Tea and biscuits will be provided. Entry to this event is free, but you must register online at:
http://mayor2016manifesto.eventbrite.co.uk
For more information or to register offline contact Danny Elliott:
Email: delliott@ageuklondon.org.uk Tel: 020 7820 6778

Volunteers And The Law from Volunteer Centre Camden
A half-day session on Tuesday 7 July
The trainer is Mark Restall who has considerable expertise in this area. This is an essential beginners’ level course for everyone with concerns about involving volunteers safely and legally. Book via eventbrite.

Disability Awareness Training from YPFI
We can train you or your organisation in Disability Awareness, help you make your service accessible for people with disabilities, or support you to set up your own Youth Participation group. The training is delivered by young disabled people from Camden and surrounding boroughs.
YPFI aims to stay in contact with organisations who receive their training to build enduring and positive relationships. By delivering these training programs we hope to improve the lives of disabled people and increase inclusion in London. Find out more at the Elfrida Rathbone YPFI website or come to the Free Taster Day on Friday 10th July at Kentish Town Community Centre from 10am-1pm.
You are invited to join us to find out more about what we offer, speak to organisations who have received the training we run and take part in activities designed to raise awareness of disability, inclusion and accessibility.
Please contact YPFI to book a place and find out more ypfi@elfridacamden.org.uk Tel: 020 7424 1601

Vital Youth and the Hospital Club Foundation present Master The Word, a Spoken Word project aimed at young people 16-24.
#MasterTheWord is a creative development project that uses creative techniques and practical interventions to explore the power of language communication and (self) presentation.
Spoken Word Workshops all 1pm- 4pm Cost: FREE
Week 1: Tues 14th, Weds 15th & Thurs 16th July
Week 2: Tues 21st, Weds 22nd & Thurs 23rd July
Week 3: Tues 28th, Weds 29th & Thurs 30th July
Week 4 – Recording days 4th & 5th August
Venue: The Hospital Club, Covent Garden, 24 Endell Street, London WC2H 9HQ
For further information call 020 7245 2269/1 e: vitalyouth@vitalregen.org
As well as creative learning and enhancing their skills, the young people complete the arts award qualification and are supported with progression opportunities into employment, apprenticeships or further training opportunities.

Recovery College Courses
Spaces are available on the following courses:
Storytelling & Narratives: Arlington House, 02/07/2015, 1pm – 4pm
Stigma and Discrimination: Arlington House, 03/07/2015, 10am -3.30pm
Better Money Management: Margerete Centre, 07/07/2015, 11am – 4pm
Introduction to Anxiety: Working Men’s College, 08/07/2015, 10.30am – 1pm
Introduction to Recovery: Arlington House, 16/07/2015, 10am – 3.30pm
Contact Oyindamola.babalola@candi.nhs.uk or recovery.college@candi.nhs.uk
www.candi.nhs.uk/recoverycollege 4 St Pancras Way, London NW1 0PE Tel: 020 3317 6904/6905

CancerSupportGroup Camden
Did you know there is a thriving Cancer Support Group (Camden) for patients and carers who have been affected by cancer?
We meet once a month at Kentish Town Health Centre, courtesy of the James Wigg Practice. We are an informal group of cancer patients
willing to share the good and not so good experiences we have been through – and we don’t just talk about cancer! Do come and join us.
Get in touch with us to find out more: veronicabrinton@gmail.com 020 77226740
or Anne Caffell 07907799248

Camden Frontline monthly forum, an opportunity for service users with a drug or alcohol history
· feedback on services
· hear about developments in drug and alcohol services in Camden
· meet other service users
· have their voice heard.
There are refreshments from 12:30pm – 1pm, and this month we will be hearing from managers at Camden Health Improvement Practice, a GP surgery for homeless people, with support for those with substance use issues in Camden.
The Forum is on Thursday 2nd July, 12:30pm at St Pancras Hospital Conference Hall, 4 St Pancras Way, NW1

Healthwatch Camden Board Meeting – Monday 29th June 2015 – Arlington Conference Centre
The next Healthwatch Camden board meeting is being held in public.
You are invited to attend, to hear about our progress and to ask questions about our work. The main items on the agenda will be the presentation of our annual report, and the launch of our ‘Start here…’ guide. We will also be considering a priority assessment for our work in mental health and getting an update on other work. Papers for the meeting will be on our website one week before the meeting and copies will be available at the meeting.
Refreshments will be available from 6pm. Please let us know if you will be attending, so that we can cater for the right number. The venue is wheelchair accessible and has a hearing loop. Please let us know if you have other access requirements, so we can make arrangements in good time.
Please register your attendance & any requirements at: Email: info@healthwatchcamden.co.uk / Tel: 020 7284 6586

What’s in a Men’s Shed for you?
Thursday 2nd July at Indian YMCA, Fitzroy Street W1T 6AQ
A Men’s Shed is a workshop for making, mending and hobbies. Groups of retired men love them and have opened more than two a week in the UK in the last 6 months. If you are interested in supporting:
~ men’s health and wellbeing,
~ community development or skill sharing,
~ in material reuse or getting something unique made,
Come and meet some members and hear why even more Sheds are needed.
or more info visit www.menssheds.org.uk. To book on this free event follow this link to Eventbrite

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

JOBS AND VOLUNTEERS

Hopscotch Asian Women’s Centre is currently recruiting.
Senior Operations Manager
Hours: 35 hrs per week Salary:£35,340 – £38,154 (depending on experience)
Closing date: 19th July 2015
http://www.charityjob.co.uk/jobs/senior-operations-manager/399674?tsId=8
Care Coordinator
Hours: 35 hrs per week Salary:£23,122
Closing date: 12th July 2015
http://www.charityjob.co.uk/jobs/care-coordinator/399673?tsId=1
Further details and application forms can be found on Charity Jobs, links provided above. Alternatively, contact Ruksana at Hopscotch by email: info@hopscotchawc.org.uk.

The Latin American House’s Menchú Nursery is recruiting:
We are looking for a full-time qualified nursery nurse (level 3 or Equivalent) to join our experienced staff team who provide high-quality Bilingual education and care in a unique multicultural environment.
Hours of work: 35hrs per week. £16,653 per year (gross salary), Kilburn, London
Full details of this position are available from: www.casalatina.org.uk/vacancies
Closing date for applications is 17:00 on 10 july 2015. Applications received after the closing date will not be considered. Interviews will be held on 23 july 2015

Street Step is launching its employability and dance fitness Academy on 29 June.
Street Step is an employability charity that supports 16-24 year olds to get into work, education or training. Our programme provides an opportunity to develop skills, gain qualifications, and get fit – all while having fun. All of this is happening at the Platform (Hornsey Road Baths, 2 Tiltman Place, off Hornsey Road, London, N7 7EE).
Our Academy has a rolling intake, meaning a young person can join when it’s right for them. Street Step Academy includes:
~ Employability skills and work placements
~ Employability and healthy living qualifications
~ Maths and English qualifications
~ Dance fitness, fun and friends!
~ In-work support once you’ve found a job
You can find out more and get in touch by visiting http://www.streetstep.co.uk/london
If you or a young person would like to learn more about us, come and join us at the Street Step Social. It will run Monday – Thursday at 1:30.
We also run FREE dance fitness classes every Wednesday at 2:30, starting Wednesday 24th June 2015
Please feel free to Email me for more information – kate.harrison@streetstep.co.uk

Age UK Camden seeks Individual Assessor Counsellor/Psychotherapist
(Locum contract £90-£100 per day depending on experience and qualification)
Age UK Camden is looking for Locum Assessors for individual therapy. The successful candidates must be accredited/registered (or eligible) counsellors/psychotherapists, preferably in personal therapy and with a psychodynamic background.
Age UK Camden has been offering individual and group psychotherapy for more than eighteen years. During this period the counselling service has gone through many changes. Currently, it is being funded by the NHS through the Camden Psychological Therapies Services and in partnership with three additional organisations (Nafsiyat, Bereavement Service Camden and Women & Health).
We offer time-limited individual and group counselling and psychotherapy. The number of sessions offered to a client for individual therapy is based on the initial consultation, i.e. the assessment, which identifies the client’s needs.
Our services are available to any Camden resident aged 55 and over, irrespective of ethnic and cultural background or sexual orientation. We also counsel people with dementia in the early stages and have a service to help couples where a partner has dementia. We can do home visits in cases where people are mobility impaired.
The post is based at Age UK Camden head office and some travel around the borough is required.
For further details and an application form visit our website www.ageukcamden.org.uk or email jobs@ageukcamden.org.uk or telephone 020 7239 0400. No CVs, no agencies please.
Closing date: Wednesday, 1st July 2015 at 9:00am Interviews: Wednesday, 8th July 2015

Ageing Better in Camden Community Connectors
A unique opportunity has arisen to work with C4, a diverse, successful and developing network of community centres in Camden – a great area we are working to make even better.
Are you up for the challenge of playing a key role in establishing and delivering an exciting new Lottery funded project to tackle isolation and loneliness among older people through encouraging their participation and connection to local networks? We are now recruiting five Area Coordinators.
Hours per week: 35. Two year initial contract, potential extension to six years
Salary: £28,845 including Inner London Weighting (SCP 29 NJC scale)
Full DBS (CRB) check will be required
Information pack and application form available on our website:
http://camdenconnect.org.uk/jobs-2/
or by emailing: camdencommunityconnectors@gmail.com
Closing Date: Thursday 9th July 2015 at 10 a.m.
Interviews will be held: 14th to 17th of July 2015

Helios Health seeks Volunteer Coordinator
Salary £9000 (part time)
Location Camden, London, Greater London
Volunteer Co-ordinator This post is funded by the Big Lottery in order to help us recruit, train and support our volunteers. The successful applicant will join our Core Team to help deliver long-term programmes of holistic health care and well-being, as well as support for our team of volunteers and practitioners in general. Post: Volunteer Co-ordinator Payment: £14.70 per hour Hours of work: 14 hours per week – hours can be flexible – Flexible between 9.30am – 7pm- Monday – Friday Contractual Period: 12 months contract. Location of work: The Helios Centre, 116 Judd St, WC1 H 9NS Annual leave: on pro rata basis, as per statutory requirement Responsible to: Management team Notice period: 1 month both ways (after probation period)
To apply go to the Charity Job website.

Year Hear seek Graduate Volunteers
The Year Here programme is a post-graduate course in social innovation; we recruit brilliant graduates and challenge them to spend a year applying themselves to society’s toughest problems.
Frontline service sits at the heart of our programme and we are currently on the hunt for new placements for our graduates. Find out more here www.yearhere.org/hostafellow.

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.
PAs can carry out a wide range of tasks, as agreed with you, to help with things such as washing, getting dressed, cooking, and supporting you to go out and about.
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 p hone: 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/

OFFERS, RESOURCES and ANNOUNCEMENTS

Four new Equality and Diversity Forum leaflets to help voluntary and community sector (VCS) organisations use the Equality Act 2010 and the Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED) in their work.
~ How to use the Equality Act 2010: A guide for voluntary and community organisations (revised June 2015)
~ How to use the Public Sector Equality Duty: A guide for voluntary and community organisations
~ The Public Sector Equality Duty and ‘due regard’
~ Glossary of key terms in equality law
These leaflets are all available on the Equality and Diversity Forum website in PDF and Microsoft Word versions. We hope you find them useful and please email us at info@edf.org.uk if you would like us to send them to you in an alternative format.

Opportunity for capital funding for VCS organisations in Frognal and Fitzjohns Ward
The Council is in receipt of money arising from a property development in Frognal and Fitzjohns Ward, as a result of Section 106 (S106) obligations on property developers, under Camden’s Planning Guidance.
This opportunity relates only to money provided to improve community facilities, it does not relate to S106 money received for other purposes, such as infrastructure and parks and open spaces.
The community building or facility must be one of the following:
• Owned by the organisation
• Occupied on a long-term lease
• Owned by the council
If your voluntary & community sector organisation would like to make a proposal for S106 capital money for community facilities, and your premises and service provision fits these criteria, please contact jeff.hopwood@camden.gov.uk or adam.demosthenous@camden.gov.uk.
A proposal form will be supplied, to easily enable response to the following:
• A brief description of the proposal, including how much money you are seeking – an estimate is fine at this stage
• Any relevant deadlines
The form will also ask for information about:
• How an allocation would ensure that the recipient’s facilities / services are available for the local community
• Whether the organisation or facility has received S106 Community Facilities funding before
• Whether the capital project has any match funding or pledges of match funding
• How the proposal will address Camden Plan priorities and the Council’s investment tests:
o www.camden.gov.uk/camdenplan
o www.camden.gov.uk/ccm/content/council-and-democracy/publications-and-finances/twocolumn/camden-financial-challenge-.en?page=3.
Proposal forms will need to be returned by the 17th July, officers intend to consider the proposals during July and August, and discuss with ward members and relevant Cabinet Members. Decisions are expected to be made by the beginning of September.

Camden Consultations
Various consultations are out at the moment including a consultation on Camden Future Libraries and Camden VCS strategy and changes to early education and childcare and children’s centre services. 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.

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To get discounts on training, room hire and many more benefits click here to join Voluntary Action Camden

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If you have an item for the e-bulletin, please email it to Kevin Nunan, knunan@vac.org.uk with a note of which section you would like it to appear under.

Voluntary Action Camden e-Bulletin 19th June 2015

Highlights: Engagement events for Voluntary and Community Organisations Only; Camden’s Centre for Independent Living Engagement Event; Disability Awareness Training from YPFI; Youth Mental Health First Aid; new Equality and Diversity Forum leaflets; Opportunity for capital funding for VCS organisations in Frognal and Fitzjohns Ward; Get cycling for summer with Bike Week 2015; Volunteers And The Law from Volunteer Centre Camden; Charity Fair ; Table Top and Book Sale; The Brandenburg Choral Festival Fundraising Opportunities; plus news, funding, events, jobs, volunteering and more.

NEWS

Engagement events for Voluntary and Community Organisations Only
23rd June 5.30 – 7.30pm or 30th June 2pm – 4pm. At VAC offices, 299 Kentish Town Rd, NW5
The Council is seeking VCS views on alternative approaches to developing a new grants programme for the sector. Four options are proposed for comment which range from improving the current mixed-funding model to a more radical collective impact approach, co-ordinating a partnership around a geographic area or a theme. The sector’s views will be used to develop a preferred approach that is likely to be a mix of the options. The engagement document and survey are available here www.camden.gov.uk/vcsengagement
As part of the eight week engagement process, Voluntary Action Camden has organised these two events for the sector only, with no council officers present, in order to give the sector an opportunity for a full and frank discussion. Please email Ricky/Monica, Building Administrator to book your place.

Camden’s Centre for Independent Living Engagement Event
Thursday 2nd July, 2-5pm, Room 10.10, 5 Pancras Square, London N1C 4AG
“Camden’s Centre for Independent Living will be based at Greenwood Place – a new community resource centre being built in Kentish Town, due to open in January 2018.
The purpose of this event is to bring together representatives from a range of voluntary and community sector organisations who have an interest in coproducing this service. It will include discussions around:
• What the CIL space within the resource centre should look like
We will be providing copies of floor plans and looking at the best use of the space
• What services the CIL should provide
We would like the CIL service offer to be as varied and inclusive as possible
• How the CIL should be run
We would like to canvas your opinions on a management model
It will also be an opportunity to discuss the visions for both the Greenwood centre and the CIL service, and to share likely timescales.”
Places are limited and confirmed names will be required to gain access to the building.
Please book your place by calling Ellie Chesterman on 0207 974 3178 or email: eleanor.chesterman@camden.gov.uk
We will send you confirmation of your place by email or by post.
Please also get in touch if you have any access or communication requirements.

Disability Awareness Training from YPFI
We can train you or your organisation in Disability Awareness, help you make your service accessible for people with disabilities, or support you to set up your own Youth Participation group. The training is delivered by young disabled people from Camden and surrounding boroughs.
YPFI aims to stay in contact with organisations who receive their training to build enduring and positive relationships. By delivering these training programs we hope to improve the lives of disabled people and increase inclusion in London. Find out more at the Elfrida Rathbone YPFI website or come to the Free Taster Day on Friday 10th July at Kentish Town Community Centre from 10am-1pm.
You are invited to join us to find out more about what we offer, speak to organisations who have received the training we run and take part in activities designed to raise awareness of disability, inclusion and accessibility.
Please contact YPFI to book a place and find out more ypfi@elfridacamden.org.uk Tel: 020 7424 1601

Places are available on VAC’s next Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) training course.
Thursday 2nd July and Thursday 9th July (9.30am to 5pm both days).
This internationally recognised course will be of interest to parents, youth workers, teachers, those who support young people, or anyone who wants to learn about mental health. Full details in the ‘VAC Events’ section below.

National News
Punk rocker protests the inappropriate use of procurement rules
Sami Helle is best known as the bass player for the Finnish punk rock band PKN, who recently performed the shortest ever song at the 2015 Eurovision Song Contest. Recently he spoke to the European Parliament and challenged the European Union’s Public Procurement Directive because of the way it is being used to push people with disabilities around. Full story in Huffington Post. Think Local Act Personal (TLAP) published new guidance to councils on contracting for flexible support. This guide makes clear that people should either get the chance to control their own budget (a direct payment) or be supported to pick a service provider who will manage their budget for them.
What gets communities off the couch and on to the street to protest?
Sometimes neighbours merely grumble at a grievance – other times they’re up in arms. The Guardian takes a look at the factors that motivate neighbours to take action.

Four new Equality and Diversity Forum leaflets to help voluntary and community sector (VCS) organisations use the Equality Act 2010 and the Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED) in their work.
~ How to use the Equality Act 2010: A guide for voluntary and community organisations (revised June 2015)
~ How to use the Public Sector Equality Duty: A guide for voluntary and community organisations
~ The Public Sector Equality Duty and ‘due regard’
~ Glossary of key terms in equality law
These leaflets are all available on the Equality and Diversity Forum website in PDF and Microsoft Word versions. We hope you find them useful and please email us at info@edf.org.uk if you would like us to send them to you in an alternative format.

Opportunity for capital funding for VCS organisations in Frognal and Fitzjohns Ward
The Council is in receipt of money arising from a property development in Frognal and Fitzjohns Ward, as a result of Section 106 (S106) obligations on property developers, under Camden’s Planning Guidance.
This opportunity relates only to money provided to improve community facilities. See ‘Offers, Resources and Announcements’ section at the end of the e-bulletin.

Get cycling for summer with Bike Week 2015
With Bike Week 2015 just around the corner, Camden Council is reminding residents about the exciting series of events on offer this year. Running from Saturday 13 to Sunday 21 June 2015, Bike Week is an annual opportunity to promote cycling, and show how cycling can easily be part of everyday life by encouraging ‘everyday cycling for everyone’. The first event is Camden is on 15 June with a further seven events in the borough during the week. Full details on the Camden Council website.

Volunteers And The Law from Volunteer Centre Camden
A half-day session on Tuesday 7 July
The trainer is Mark Restall who has considerable expertise in this area. This is an essential beginners’ level course for everyone with concerns about involving volunteers safely and legally. Book via eventbrite.

Charity Fair from Directory of Social Change
30th June and 1st July, Holloway Road
Whatever your role in the sector, there is training for you here: Charityfair has 64 workshops, from only £35, covering a huge variety of topics including fundraising, management & leadership, marketing, governance, personal development, legal & finance, wellbeing, campaigning & lobbying and organisational support.
More information and booking at www.charityfair.org.uk.
We have 2 free workshop tickets for Camden groups. Contact Kevin at VAC stating name and date of the session you would like to attend and your name and organisation.

Table Top and Book Sale
Saturday 20 June, 11am to 3 pm, at St Pancras Community Association Centre at 30 Camden Street, London NW1 (opposite the Sports Pitches behind Richard Cobden School). Table Top Sale bargains and a great selection of second hand books to browse -prices 25p to £2. Entrance fee 50p which includes tea or coffee. Proceeds to help fund Women and Health in Carol Street and St Pancras Community Association (SPCA).
Free entry from 10 am for people renting a Table Top (at £3.50).
Tables will be available on a First Come First Served basis.

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

Street Step, National Community Land Trusts Network, C4, Helios Health, Voicability, Year Here, Volunteer Centre Camden, Age Uk Camden, The Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, 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

FUNDING NEWS

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

Fundraising opportunities for small charities The Brandenburg Choral Festival of London
The Brandenburg Choral Festival of London is offering small charities the opportunity to raise funds by selling tickets to its choral concerts this Autumn.
Charities raise funds by selling tickets to their supporters for a concert selected from the Festival programme and retaining a share (up to 50%) of the value of tickets sold. There are 22 concerts to choose from, ranging from Fauré and Brahms Requiems to concerts featuring jazz, folk and soul, and all are held at prestigious central London venues including St Martin-in-theFields, St Clement Danes, Temple Church and the Queen’s Chapel of the Savoy. A maximum of two charities will be allocated to a concert. Each charity will be given its own allocation of tickets, separate from the main box office allocation, and there is no financial commitment to pay for any unsold tickets. Reception opportunities are available at most concerts.
This is the third year the Festival has been running the fundraising initiative; to date, over 70 small charities have participated including: The AMAR Foundation, Respond, Dyslexia Research Trust, The Circle Works and Prader Willi Syndrome Association UK.
Interested charities should get in touch with Brandenburg straight away as the process of allocating concerts to charities for this Autumn will begin on 22 June.
Further information For details, including a copy of the ‘Fundraising with Brandenburg’ leaflet and a list of the Autumn Series concerts, please contact:
Claudia Jenkins, Development Officer – Brandenburg Choral Festival of London
Email: dev@brandenburg.org.uk Phone: 07973 564533 / 01372 209817
Information about the Festival, including a list of charity partners, can be found at:
www.brandenburg.org.uk. Follow on Twitter: @BrandenburgFest

Statement from the Big Lottery Regarding Applications in Camden for Older People’s Projects
“Some voluntary organisations have been wondering if the Big Lottery Ageing Better in Camden funding prevents them from applying to the Big Lottery for their own older people’s projects and services. The answer is ‘NO! Keep Applying!’
The Big Lottery Reaching Communities Programme assess each application on its merits and its fit with the programme requirements, considering its awareness and links with other activities already taking place in the area. This often includes whether applications are complementary to other investments that we have already made within an area and where suitable other services that are being delivered.
It is highly unlikely that an application to Reaching Communities or our other open programmes would be rejected solely on the basis of Ageing Better or other funding being awarded to the same area, unless there was clear duplication. If anyone has any examples of Ageing Better in Camden being the sole reason they weren’t funded for another project, please let Ageing Better in Camden know and they will raise the issue with their Big Lottery Funding Officer.”

Money Advice Trust – Innovation Grants Programme Open
The Money Advice Trust Innovation Grants Programme offers grants of up to £30,000 per year for up to three years to charitable organisations in the UK.
Funding is available for projects that demonstrate innovative practice and meet either aim 1 or 2 whilst assisting the Trust in achieving aim 3:
Empower individuals and microbusinesses to tackle their debts and improve financial health.
Support staff in charities across the UK to provide effective debt and/or money advice.
Improve the UK’s money and debt environment through the dissemination of successful innovative practice from funded projects.
The Trust is looking for project proposals that demonstrate how they will support individuals or microbusinesses who are in severe financial hardship, who are financially excluded and/or who are hard to reach to:
Increase their financial literacy.
The deadline for Expressions of Interest is 4 July 2015 (midnight).
Further information is Here

Building Better Opportunities
Building Better Opportunities brings together money from the Big Lottery Fund and the European Social Fund 2014-2020 to provide joint investment in local projects that tackle poverty and promote social inclusion.
The programmes in London include support for economically inactive and long term unemployed women from BAME communities, as well as for those with caring responsibilities. It also includes an intermediate labour market (ILM) programme for people with disabilities who have spent long periods out of work.
In addition to the Project Outlines, additional information for each of these programmes can be found here on the London Enterprise Panel’s website.
Assessment of applications to the Big Lottery Fund will include consideration of how well applications address the information published in the additional information documents as well as in the Project Outlines.
The Big Lottery Fund Project Outlines can be accessed here.
While details about the application process can be found here.
The deadline for applications is 12 Noon on Monday 3rd August.

Skipton Building Society Grassroots Giving 2015 Now Open
Skipton Building Society launched its award-winning Grassroots Giving programme in 2013 to help celebrate its 160th anniversary. That year we gave away 160 pots of £500 to deserving community-based organisations across the UK. This year 162 £500 awards will be made. Note that this is aimed at small community groups and excludes registered charities. Skipton have also published some useful resources. Full details and FAQ here.

Crowdfunding?
Don’t forget that there is a dedicated page on Spacehive just for Camden projects. And set up costs are free to Camden groups. Find out more at Spacehive Camden.

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

VAC EVENTS

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

Mental health courses and workshops from VAC
To book your place, 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 based in Camden or which serve Camden residents. Places are limited on each course to a maximum of two people per organisation.
If you have any queries about our training, please contact us on our new email address: mentalhealthteam@vac.org.uk.

Places are available on VAC’s next Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) training course.
This will take place over two full days on Thursday 2nd July and Thursday 9th July (9.30am to 5pm both days).
This internationally recognised course will be of interest to parents, youth workers, teachers, those who support young people, or anyone who wants to learn more about mental health.
The YMHFA course will teach you to:
• Spot the early signs of a mental health problem in a young person
• Feel confident helping a young person experiencing a problem
• Provide help on a first aid basis
• Help protect a young person who might be at risk of harm
• Help prevent a mental illness from getting worse
• Help a young person recover faster
• Guide a young person towards the right support
• Reduce the stigma of mental health problems
Participants will receive a copy of the YMHFA manual and certificate on completion of the course. Please see the attached flyer for more information.
The training is highly subsidised at only £25 per person. To book your place and pay by card via Evenbrite please go to: https://vac.org.uk/events/category/health-mental-health/
Please note that VAC can only accept bookings from organisations based in Camden or which serve Camden residents. Places are limited on each course to a maximum of two people per organisation.
If you have any questions please contact the Mental Health Team on: mentalhealthteam@vac.org.uk or call 020 7284 6550.

OTHER EVENTS

Vital Youth and the Hospital Club Foundation present Master The Word, a Spoken Word project aimed at young people 16-24.
#MasterTheWord is a creative development project that uses creative techniques and practical interventions to explore the power of language communication and (self) presentation.
Spoken Word Workshops all 1pm- 4pm Cost: FREE
Week 1: Tues 14th, Weds 15th & Thurs 16th July
Week 2: Tues 21st, Weds 22nd & Thurs 23rd July
Week 3: Tues 28th, Weds 29th & Thurs 30th July
Week 4 – Recording days 4th & 5th August
Venue: The Hospital Club, Covent Garden, 24 Endell Street, London WC2H 9HQ
For further information call 020 7245 2269/1 e: vitalyouth@vitalregen.org
As well as creative learning and enhancing their skills, the young people complete the arts award qualification and are supported with progression opportunities into employment, apprenticeships or further training opportunities.

Recovery College Courses
Spaces are available on the following courses:
Storytelling & Narratives: Arlington House, 02/07/2015, 1pm – 4pm
Stigma and Discrimination: Arlington House, 03/07/2015, 10am -3.30pm
Better Money Management: Margerete Centre, 07/07/2015, 11am – 4pm
Introduction to Anxiety: Working Men’s College, 08/07/2015, 10.30am – 1pm
Introduction to Recovery: Arlington House, 16/07/2015, 10am – 3.30pm
Contact Oyindamola.babalola@candi.nhs.uk or recovery.college@candi.nhs.uk
www.candi.nhs.uk/recoverycollege 4 St Pancras Way, London NW1 0PE Tel: 020 3317 6904/6905

Refugees – Rebuilding Lives in Camden
This walk explores the impact of Refugees on Camden, and shows how they have impacted on the history and life of the Borough.
All the ticket money for this walk goes to Amnesty International.
22nd June 2015 From 19:00 to 21:00
Starting from Mornington Crescent Underground Station, Eversholt Street, NW1 1BL
London Organiser: Footprints and Amnesty Mayfair & Soho group
Contact: ayeshamehta653@gmail.com Price £10

Upbeat & Kings Cross Timebank Presents: Kings Cross Open Mic Summer Sizzler
Friday 26th June 2015 6-9 pm at
The Crypt Holy Cross Church Cromer Street WC1H 8JU
World Music, International Dance & Special Guests. Come along to perform, dress up or just to enjoy the evening. Everyone welcome.
Entry: £2.50 or 3 time-credits (Free for performers) Ticket includes free food.
Any proceeds made will go towards running the next Open Mic event. For more information contact
Lucia – T: 07762151783 E: upbeat@upbeatmusic.org
Jonathan – T: 02072784437 E: jonathan.bowles@hcct.org.uk

CancerSupportGroup Camden
Did you know there is a thriving Cancer Support Group (Camden) for patients and carers who have been affected by cancer?
We meet once a month at Kentish Town Health Centre, courtesy of the James Wigg Practice. We are an informal group of cancer patients
willing to share the good and not so good experiences we have been through – and we don’t just talk about cancer! Do come and join us.
Get in touch with us to find out more: veronicabrinton@gmail.com 020 77226740
or Anne Caffell 07907799248

Camden Frontline monthly forum, an opportunity for service users with a drug or alcohol history
· feedback on services
· hear about developments in drug and alcohol services in Camden
· meet other service users
· have their voice heard.
There are refreshments from 12:30pm – 1pm, and this month we will be hearing from managers at Camden Health Improvement Practice, a GP surgery for homeless people, with support for those with substance use issues in Camden.
The Forum is on Thursday 2nd July, 12:30pm at St Pancras Hospital Conference Hall, 4 St Pancras Way, NW1

Healthwatch Camden Board Meeting – Monday 29th June 2015 – Arlington Conference Centre
The next Healthwatch Camden board meeting is being held in public.
You are invited to attend, to hear about our progress and to ask questions about our work. The main items on the agenda will be the presentation of our annual report, and the launch of our ‘Start here…’ guide. We will also be considering a priority assessment for our work in mental health and getting an update on other work. Papers for the meeting will be on our website one week before the meeting and copies will be available at the meeting.
Refreshments will be available from 6pm. Please let us know if you will be attending, so that we can cater for the right number. The venue is wheelchair accessible and has a hearing loop. Please let us know if you have other access requirements, so we can make arrangements in good time.
Please register your attendance & any requirements at: Email: info@healthwatchcamden.co.uk / Tel: 020 7284 6586

Visually Impaired in Camden (VIC) outing to the Caldwell Lavender Farm 21st July
The coach will leave from Swiss Cottage Community Centre, 19 Winchester Road, NW3 3NR at 10am and will arrive back at the community centre at around 6.30pm.
The cost will be £10.00 (payable on the day) with one companion at the same rate; this includes the coach and entry to & a guided tour of Caldwell Lavender Farm.
To join VIC and for more information abut the trip please call Rosemary on 07980 328 959

What’s in a Men’s Shed for you?
Thursday 2nd July at Indian YMCA, Fitzroy Street W1T 6AQ
A Men’s Shed is a workshop for making, mending and hobbies. Groups of retired men love them and have opened more than two a week in the UK in the last 6 months. If you are interested in supporting:
~ men’s health and wellbeing,
~ community development or skill sharing,
~ in material reuse or getting something unique made,
Come and meet some members and hear why even more Sheds are needed.
or more info visit www.menssheds.org.uk. To book on this free event follow this link to Eventbrite

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

JOBS AND VOLUNTEERS

Street Step is launching its employability and dance fitness Academy on 29 June.
Street Step is an employability charity that supports 16-24 year olds to get into work, education or training. Our programme provides an opportunity to develop skills, gain qualifications, and get fit – all while having fun. All of this is happening at the Platform (Hornsey Road Baths, 2 Tiltman Place, off Hornsey Road, London, N7 7EE).
Our Academy has a rolling intake, meaning a young person can join when it’s right for them. Street Step Academy includes:
~ Employability skills and work placements
~ Employability and healthy living qualifications
~ Maths and English qualifications
~ Dance fitness, fun and friends!
~ In-work support once you’ve found a job
You can find out more and get in touch by visiting http://www.streetstep.co.uk/london
If you or a young person would like to learn more about us, come and join us at the Street Step Social. It will run Monday – Thursday at 1:30.
We also run FREE dance fitness classes every Wednesday at 2:30, starting Wednesday 24th June 2015
Please feel free to Email me for more information – kate.harrison@streetstep.co.uk

Age UK Camden seeks Individual Assessor Counsellor/Psychotherapist
(Locum contract £90-£100 per day depending on experience and qualification)
Age UK Camden is looking for Locum Assessors for individual therapy. The successful candidates must be accredited/registered (or eligible) counsellors/psychotherapists, preferably in personal therapy and with a psychodynamic background.
Age UK Camden has been offering individual and group psychotherapy for more than eighteen years. During this period the counselling service has gone through many changes. Currently, it is being funded by the NHS through the Camden Psychological Therapies Services and in partnership with three additional organisations (Nafsiyat, Bereavement Service Camden and Women & Health).
We offer time-limited individual and group counselling and psychotherapy. The number of sessions offered to a client for individual therapy is based on the initial consultation, i.e. the assessment, which identifies the client’s needs.
Our services are available to any Camden resident aged 55 and over, irrespective of ethnic and cultural background or sexual orientation. We also counsel people with dementia in the early stages and have a service to help couples where a partner has dementia. We can do home visits in cases where people are mobility impaired.
The post is based at Age UK Camden head office and some travel around the borough is required.
For further details and an application form visit our website www.ageukcamden.org.uk or email jobs@ageukcamden.org.uk or telephone 020 7239 0400. No CVs, no agencies please.
Closing date: Wednesday, 1st July 2015 at 9:00am Interviews: Wednesday, 8th July 2015

National Community Land Trusts (CLT) Network is Recuiting:
One is for a part-time Communications and Membership Officer, 3 days a week, at £25,000 to £27,000 (pro-rata) + pension and benefits, for a one year fixed term contract with a possible extension.
For this role we are looking for someone with communications experience to join the team and devise and deliver the Network’s communications strategy and support the Network’s drive to increase membership. For this role we would be open to considering some home-working.
There is more information and how to apply in the job pack that you can download from the advert webpage.
The other vacancy is for a part-time Administrator, 2 days a week, at £20,000-£22,000 (pro-rata) + pension and benefits, again for a one year fixed term contract.
For the Administrator role we are looking for someone with previous experience in an administrative role, including financial administration, and in delivering high quality customer service. The postholder will provide essential administrative support to the organisation and help ensure the smooth running of the Network.
Click here for a link to the advert.
The deadline for applications is 9am Monday 29th June. If anyone is interested and wants to find out more they can give my colleague Gemma Tighe a call on 020 3764 1840 or drop us an email at info@communitylandtrusts.org.uk.
The National CLT Network is a small national charity based in Farringdon, central London. We currently have a staff team of 2.5 members of staff. For more information ago to www.communitylandtrusts.org.uk.

Ageing Better in Camden Community Connectors
A unique opportunity has arisen to work with C4, a diverse, successful and developing network of community centres in Camden – a great area we are working to make even better.
Are you up for the challenge of playing a key role in establishing and delivering an exciting new Lottery funded project to tackle isolation and loneliness among older people through encouraging their participation and connection to local networks? We are now recruiting five Area Coordinators.
Hours per week: 35. Two year initial contract, potential extension to six years
Salary: £28,845 including Inner London Weighting (SCP 29 NJC scale)
Full DBS (CRB) check will be required
Information pack and application form available on our website:
http://camdenconnect.org.uk/jobs-2/
or by emailing: camdencommunityconnectors@gmail.com
Closing Date: Thursday 9th July 2015 at 10 a.m.
Interviews will be held: 14th to 17th of July 2015

Helios Health seeks Volunteer Coordinator
Salary £9000 (part time)
Location Camden, London, Greater London
Volunteer Co-ordinator This post is funded by the Big Lottery in order to help us recruit, train and support our volunteers. The successful applicant will join our Core Team to help deliver long-term programmes of holistic health care and well-being, as well as support for our team of volunteers and practitioners in general. Post: Volunteer Co-ordinator Payment: £14.70 per hour Hours of work: 14 hours per week – hours can be flexible – Flexible between 9.30am – 7pm- Monday – Friday Contractual Period: 12 months contract. Location of work: The Helios Centre, 116 Judd St, WC1 H 9NS Annual leave: on pro rata basis, as per statutory requirement Responsible to: Management team Notice period: 1 month both ways (after probation period)
To apply go to the Charity Job website.

AgeUKCamden seeks Advice Team Manager
Local Government Scale PO2 £33,579-£36,186, plus 6% contributory pension.
The Advice Team Manager post is an exciting opportunity for a manager who is dynamic, focussed and a multitasker to make a real difference to the lives of older people in Camden You’ll need a background in areas such as welfare rights, advice or care management, and have spent at least 2 years successfully managing a team of staff and/or volunteers.
The postholder will manage the Age UK Camden (AUC) information, advice, support and advocacy (IAA) services and team. AUC’s IAA services are delivered by a staff and volunteer team in person (from the office, outreach venues, home visits), by phone, and online.
For further details and an application form visit our website www.ageukcamden.org.uk or email jobs@ageukcamden.org.uk or telephone 020 7239 0400. No CVs, no agencies please.
Closing date: 9:00am Monday 29th June 2015 Interviews: Monday 6th July 2015

Voicability seeks User Involvement Advocate
VoiceAbility supports people who face disadvantage or discrimination to have a voice that counts. Providing advocacy and user involvement services across England, VoiceAbility is a growing organisation working with people who are vulnerable or marginalised to raise their voices and have their rights respected.
Position: User Involvement Advocate
Location: Camden, London
Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Salary: £23,299 0k – £28,299k per annum inclusive of Inner London Weighting
Closing Date for Applications: 23rd June
Interview Date: 30th June and 1st July
The User Involvement Advocate will work directly with people with lived experience of substance misuse and / or mental ill health to help strengthen voice, champion rights and improve services. The role is to reach widely within the service user community to consult on lived experience, recruit volunteers and support peer to peer initiatives. More information and application form at the Voicability website.

Year Hear seek Graduate Volunteers
The Year Here programme is a post-graduate course in social innovation; we recruit brilliant graduates and challenge them to spend a year applying themselves to society’s toughest problems.
Frontline service sits at the heart of our programme and we are currently on the hunt for new placements for our graduates. Find out more here www.yearhere.org/hostafellow.

Volunteer Centre Camden seeks CEO
NJC pay scale 43, £40782 pro rata (including London Weighting) plus pension contribution. 30 hours per week (we can be flexible about how these hours are distributed throughout the week).
It’s a time of opportunity for Volunteer Centre Camden. As an organisation we want to change how we work, develop new partnerships and put Camden on the map as a centre of excellence for volunteering.
Our next CEO needs to have excellent fundraising skills, an ability to lead change and influence external partners. You will have a passion for volunteering which is infectious, we need others to be excited about volunteering and its potential.
Now is a crucial time for development. We have funding until March 2016. A key part of this role will be to develop partnerships and secure funding beyond March 2016.
We are looking for someone who can live and breathe our values; To work in partnership, deliver quality, adapt, be positive and be inclusive. You will be proactive and able to work with the Board of Trustees to develop and deliver amazing services.
With successful fundraising activity there will be the scope for this role to be extended beyond March 2015 on a full or part time basis. Details on our website; http://volunteercentrecamden.org.uk/we-are-recruiting-a-ceo/

This summer The Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust will be holding elections for its Council of Governors
Trust would like to invite as many members of the public to stand as possible. There are eleven seats for public members available.
Anyone over 18, with an interest in what we do can apply. Our Council of Governors is a collection of elected people – patients, carers, members of the public, students, staff and people from partner organisations. Anyone can become a Governor, meaning a variety of informed views and opinions influence the work we do. Our Governors work alongside the Board of Directors and are responsible for helping to shape our work. They make sure we continue to work for the benefit of patients and students.
You can also find out more information on our website: https://tavistockandportman.uk/GovernorElections, where you will find a ‘register your interest’ form and information on the time commitment and what we are looking for. We are also planning on running some drop in sessions in June and July, so keep an eye out on our website for future updates around these.
For more information about becoming a Governor or details on how to get a nomination form please contact Gervase Campbell, our Trust Secretary on: TSecretary@tavi-port.nhs.uk.

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.
PAs can carry out a wide range of tasks, as agreed with you, to help with things such as washing, getting dressed, cooking, and supporting you to go out and about.
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 p hone: 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/

OFFERS, RESOURCES and ANNOUNCEMENTS

Opportunity for capital funding for VCS organisations in Frognal and Fitzjohns Ward
The Council is in receipt of money arising from a property development in Frognal and Fitzjohns Ward, as a result of Section 106 (S106) obligations on property developers, under Camden’s Planning Guidance.
This opportunity relates only to money provided to improve community facilities, it does not relate to S106 money received for other purposes, such as infrastructure and parks and open spaces.
The community building or facility must be one of the following:
• Owned by the organisation
• Occupied on a long-term lease
• Owned by the council
If your voluntary & community sector organisation would like to make a proposal for S106 capital money for community facilities, and your premises and service provision fits these criteria, please contact jeff.hopwood@camden.gov.uk or adam.demosthenous@camden.gov.uk.
A proposal form will be supplied, to easily enable response to the following:
• A brief description of the proposal, including how much money you are seeking – an estimate is fine at this stage
• Any relevant deadlines
The form will also ask for information about:
• How an allocation would ensure that the recipient’s facilities / services are available for the local community
• Whether the organisation or facility has received S106 Community Facilities funding before
• Whether the capital project has any match funding or pledges of match funding
• How the proposal will address Camden Plan priorities and the Council’s investment tests:
o www.camden.gov.uk/camdenplan
o www.camden.gov.uk/ccm/content/council-and-democracy/publications-and-finances/twocolumn/camden-financial-challenge-.en?page=3.
Proposal forms will need to be returned by the 17th July, officers intend to consider the proposals during July and August, and discuss with ward members and relevant Cabinet Members. Decisions are expected to be made by the beginning of September.

Camden Consultations
Various consultations are out at the moment including a consultation on Camden Future Libraries and Camden VCS strategy and changes to early education and childcare and children’s centre services. 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.

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To get discounts on training, room hire and many more benefits click here to join Voluntary Action Camden

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If you have an item for the e-bulletin, please email it to Kevin Nunan, knunan@vac.org.uk with a note of which section you would like it to appear under.

Voluntary Action Camden e-bulletin 12th June 2015

Highlights: Engagement events for Voluntary and Community Organisations Only ; It’s Refugee Week 2015; Refugees – Rebuilding Lives in Camden; The Evelyn Oldfield Unit Conference – Research for Action and Influence Students and Refugee Week celebration; Camden is 50 Years Old; Legal challenge launched over cut in affordable homes in King’s Cross; Get cycling for summer with Bike Week 2015; Hampstead Summer Festival Over 60s Art Competition; Kings Cross Open Mic Summer Sizzler; Table Top and Book Sale; plus news, funding, events, jobs, volunteering and more.

NEWS

Engagement events for Voluntary and Community Organisations Only
23rd June 5.30 – 7.30pm or 30th June 2pm – 4pm. At VAC offices, 299 Kentish Town Rd, NW5
The Council is seeking VCS views on alternative approaches to developing a new grants programme for the sector. Four options are proposed for comment which range from improving the current mixed-funding model to a more radical collective impact approach, co-ordinating a partnership around a geographic area or a theme. The sector’s views will be used to develop a preferred approach that is likely to be a mix of the options. The engagement document and survey are available here www.camden.gov.uk/vcsengagement
As part of the eight week engagement process, Voluntary Action Camden has organised two events for the sector only, with no council officers present, in order to give the sector an opportunity for a full and frank discussion. Please email Ricky/Monica, Building Administrator to book your place.

It’s Refugee Week 2015
15th – 21st June is Refugee Week. The theme of this year is ‘Celebrate’. Celebrate the contribution of refugees to the UK. Did you know that The Voice star Rita Ora was a refugee? Or that the family of artist Lucien Freud moved to London in the 1930s to avoid persecution by the Nazis?
They are just two of the personalities highlighted by Traces Project, the first digital timeline to tell the untold history of artists who have sought safety in the UK from conflict and persecution.

Refugees – Rebuilding Lives in Camden
This walk explores the impact of Refugees on Camden, and shows how they have impacted on the history and life of the Borough.
All the ticket money for this walk goes to Amnesty International.
22nd June 2015 From 19:00 to 21:00
Starting from Mornington Crescent Underground Station, Eversholt Street, NW1 1BL
London Organiser: Footprints and Amnesty Mayfair & Soho group
Contact: ayeshamehta653@gmail.com Price £10

The Evelyn Oldfield Unit invites you to a Conference for Research for Action and Influence Students and Refugee Week celebration
Thursday, 18th June 2015, 1.30-5.30pmat Resource for London, 356 Holloway Road
This event will see student presentations followed by cultural celebration of Refugee Week, including special guests, funders and politicians.
The researchers will present new thoughts and findings on issues faced by London’s migrants
The Evelyn Oldfield Unit is running the accredited Research for Action & Influence course, a 9 month programme for members of London’s refugee and migrant communities. This course will culminate in this conference whereby the groups present the findings of their research and actions as above.
To book a place please contact Alexandra Ceriu Tel: 0207 697 4105. Email: alexandra@evelynoldfield.co.uk

National News
With Friends Like These
Acevo’s chief executive has criticised the chair of the Charity Commission’s comments about the sector being in ‘crisis’, and accused him of undermining the sector.
In his blog post, No, we ain’t in crisis!, Stephen Bubb, chief executive of Acevo said that he found it “disappointing” that Shawcross would use a word like “crisis” to describe the sector in the wake of the death of Olive Cooke.
Bubb said that he expected the regulator to “rise above the noise of the tabloids, and make the public case for charities’ work”, but instead accused Shawcross of “following the lead set by lurid coverage in the press”.
“I certainly don’t think it is the chair of the Charity Commission’s job to court national controversy for the sector he is mandated to support”, he said. Full Story in Civil Society.
Dementiaville

Channel 4’s Dementiaville reports on a radical approach to dementia. One in three people in the UK will be affected by dementia, with many travelling back to memories from long ago. This series plays detective, seeking who each person once was – and who they are now. Details on the Channel 4 website.
Psychological Services In Job Centres
The BBC report on the government’s plans to co-locate IABT (Increased Access to Psychological Therapy) staff in Jobcentres together with an increase in provision of online CBT aimed at up to 40000 people. The first trial starts in South London this week.

Camden is 50 Years Old
The current London boroughs were created in 1965 and London Councils have celebrated the anniversary with a booklet and short film as well as a gallery and political almanac.
As part of the celebrations Camden is holding a Fun Day in Ampthill Square TOMORROW Saturday 13th June from 1-4pm. All welcome. Entertainment, arts, theatre, sports etc. camden50.co.uk

Legal challenge launched over cut in affordable homes on King’s Cross regeneration site
The Camden New Journal has reported that Camden Council is facing a legal battle over its decision to allow a property company to reduce the number of social homes built on the £2billion King’s Cross development.
Lawyers this week launched a challenge against the move – which will see the percentage of affordable housing fall to around 33 per cent – and said that the decision should not have been taken behind closed doors, without any public consultation. There is an online petition started by Camden residents here.

Get cycling for summer with Bike Week 2015
With Bike Week 2015 just around the corner, Camden Council is reminding residents about the exciting series of events on offer this year. Running from Saturday 13 to Sunday 21 June 2015, Bike Week is an annual opportunity to promote cycling, and show how cycling can easily be part of everyday life by encouraging ‘everyday cycling for everyone’. The first event is Camden is on 15 June with a further seven events in the borough during the week. Full details on the Camden Council website.

Hampstead Summer Festival Invitation to take part in the 5th Annual Over 60s Art Competition
The theme is ‘Magic on the Heath’ – and can include any ‘magical ‘aspect of Hampstead Heath, its landscape, people, its spirit and atmosphere or simply the ideas and feelings it sparks in us.
Entry is free and medium and style is up to you.
All shortlisted entries will be exhibited in one of the marquees at the Festival Art Village by Whitestone Pond on Sunday June 21st. Prizes:
The Phil Ward Prize £100
‘Taster’ Lesson at the Hampstead School of Art
Vouchers for art materials and framing
All shortlisted entries also eligible for Best of Show Catto Prize £200
JUdging on Sunday 21st June. Prizes Presented on Sunday 5th July
Deadline for entries: 5PM Friday 19th June 2015.
To register your intention to enter and enquiries contact Annie Ward tel: 07710 907431 or email: art@hampsteadsummerfestival.com

Upbeat & Kings Cross Timebank & present: Kings Cross Open Mic Summer Sizzler
Friday 26th June 2015 6-9 pm at
The Crypt Holy Cross Church Cromer Street WC1H 8JU
World Music, International Dance & Special Guests. Come along to perform, dress up or just to enjoy the evening. Everyone welcome.
Entry: £2.50 or 3 time-credits (Free for performers) Ticket includes free food.
Any proceeds made will go towards running the next Open Mic event. For more information contact
Lucia – T: 07762151783 E: upbeat@upbeatmusic.org
Jonathan – T: 02072784437 E: jonathan.bowles@hcct.org.uk

Table Top and Book Sale
Saturday 20 June, 11am to 3 pm, at St Pancras Community Association Centre at 30 Camden Street, London NW1 (opposite the Sports Pitches behind Richard Cobden School). Table Top Sale bargains and a great selection of second hand books to browse -prices 25p to £2. Entrance fee 50p which includes tea or coffee. Proceeds to help fund Women and Health in Carol Street and St Pancras Community Association (SPCA).
Free entry from 10 am for people renting a Table Top (at £3.50).
Tables will be available on a First Come First Served basis.

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

C4, Helios Health, Voicability, Year Here, Coram’s Fields, Volunteer Centre Camden, Age Uk Camden, People’s Centre for Change, The Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, 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

FUNDING NEWS

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

Statement from the Big Lottery Regarding Applications in Camden for Older People’s Projects
“Some voluntary organisations have been wondering if the Big Lottery Ageing Better in Camden funding prevents them from applying to the Big Lottery for their own older people’s projects and services. The answer is ‘NO! Keep Applying!’
The Big Lottery Reaching Communities Programme assess each application on its merits and its fit with the programme requirements, considering its awareness and links with other activities already taking place in the area. This often includes whether applications are complementary to other investments that we have already made within an area and where suitable other services that are being delivered.
It is highly unlikely that an application to Reaching Communities or our other open programmes would be rejected solely on the basis of Ageing Better or other funding being awarded to the same area, unless there was clear duplication. If anyone has any examples of Ageing Better in Camden being the sole reason they weren’t funded for another project, please let Ageing Better in Camden know and they will raise the issue with their Big Lottery Funding Officer.”

Money Advice Trust – Innovation Grants Programme Open
The Money Advice Trust Innovation Grants Programme offers grants of up to £30,000 per year for up to three years to charitable organisations in the UK.
Funding is available for projects that demonstrate innovative practice and meet either aim 1 or 2 whilst assisting the Trust in achieving aim 3:
Empower individuals and microbusinesses to tackle their debts and improve financial health.
Support staff in charities across the UK to provide effective debt and/or money advice.
Improve the UK’s money and debt environment through the dissemination of successful innovative practice from funded projects.
The Trust is looking for project proposals that demonstrate how they will support individuals or microbusinesses who are in severe financial hardship, who are financially excluded and/or who are hard to reach to:
Increase their financial literacy.
The deadline for Expressions of Interest is 4 July 2015 (midnight).
Further information is Here

Building Better Opportunities
Building Better Opportunities brings together money from the Big Lottery Fund and the European Social Fund 2014-2020 to provide joint investment in local projects that tackle poverty and promote social inclusion.
The programmes in London include support for economically inactive and long term unemployed women from BAME communities, as well as for those with caring responsibilities. It also includes an intermediate labour market (ILM) programme for people with disabilities who have spent long periods out of work.
In addition to the Project Outlines, additional information for each of these programmes can be found here on the London Enterprise Panel’s website.
Assessment of applications to the Big Lottery Fund will include consideration of how well applications address the information published in the additional information documents as well as in the Project Outlines.
The Big Lottery Fund Project Outlines can be accessed here.
While details about the application process can be found here.
The deadline for applications is 12 Noon on Monday 3rd August.

Skipton Building Society Grassroots Giving 2015 Now Open
Skipton Building Society launched its award-winning Grassroots Giving programme in 2013 to help celebrate its 160th anniversary. That year we gave away 160 pots of £500 to deserving community-based organisations across the UK. This year 162 £500 awards will be made. Note that this is aimed at small community groups and excludes registered charities. Skipton have also published some useful resources. Full details and FAQ here.

Crowdfunding?
Don’t forget that there is a dedicated page on Spacehive just for Camden projects. And set up costs are free to Camden groups. Find out more at Spacehive Camden.

The Origin Housing Community Grants Programme
The 2015/16 programme is now open, with the first deadline being Monday 29 June.
Everything you need to apply can be found online here: http://www.originhousing.org.uk/communitygrants.aspx
We welcome all applications for projects that will benefit our residents and customers, and fit into one or more of the following themes:
Building Stronger Communities
Gardening Food and Environmental
Celebrating Heritage
Origin anticipate spending all the budget in this first round. The deadline is 29 June.

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

VAC EVENTS

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

Mental health courses and workshops from VAC
To book your place, 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 based in Camden or which serve Camden residents. Places are limited on each course to a maximum of two people per organisation.
If you have any queries about our training, please contact us on our new email address: mentalhealthteam@vac.org.uk.

OTHER EVENTS

CancerSupportGroup Camden
Did you know there is a thriving Cancer Support Group (Camden) for patients and carers who have been affected by cancer?
We meet once a month at Kentish Town Health Centre, courtesy of the James Wigg Practice. We are an informal group of cancer patients
willing to share the good and not so good experiences we have been through – and we don’t just talk about cancer! Do come and join us.
Get in touch with us to find out more: veronicabrinton@gmail.com 020 77226740
or Anne Caffell 07907799248

Camden Frontline monthly forum, an opportunity for service users with a drug or alcohol history
· feedback on services
· hear about developments in drug and alcohol services in Camden
· meet other service users
· have their voice heard.
There are refreshments from 12:30pm – 1pm, and this month we will be hearing from managers at Camden Health Improvement Practice, a GP surgery for homeless people, with support for those with substance use issues in Camden.
The Forum is on Thursday 2nd July, 12:30pm at St Pancras Hospital Conference Hall, 4 St Pancras Way, NW1

Healthwatch Camden Board Meeting – Monday 29th June 2015 – Arlington Conference Centre
The next Healthwatch Camden board meeting is being held in public.
You are invited to attend, to hear about our progress and to ask questions about our work. The main items on the agenda will be the presentation of our annual report, and the launch of our ‘Start here…’ guide. We will also be considering a priority assessment for our work in mental health and getting an update on other work. Papers for the meeting will be on our website one week before the meeting and copies will be available at the meeting.
Refreshments will be available from 6pm. Please let us know if you will be attending, so that we can cater for the right number. The venue is wheelchair accessible and has a hearing loop. Please let us know if you have other access requirements, so we can make arrangements in good time.
Please register your attendance & any requirements at: Email: info@healthwatchcamden.co.uk / Tel: 020 7284 6586

Visually Impaired in Camden (VIC) outing to the Caldwell Lavender Farm 21st July
The coach will leave from Swiss Cottage Community Centre, 19 Winchester Road, NW3 3NR at 10am and will arrive back at the community centre at around 6.30pm.
The cost will be £10.00 (payable on the day) with one companion at the same rate; this includes the coach and entry to & a guided tour of Caldwell Lavender Farm.
To join VIC and for more information abut the trip please call Rosemary on 07980 328 959

Charity Fair from Directory of Social Change
30th June and 1st July, Holloway Road
Whatever your role in the sector, there is training for you here: Charityfair has 64 workshops, from only £35, covering a huge variety of topics including fundraising, management & leadership, marketing, governance, personal development, legal & finance, wellbeing, campaigning & lobbying and organisational support.
More information and booking at www.charityfair.org.uk.
We have 2 free workshop tickets for Camden groups. Contact Kevin at VAC stating name and date of the session you would like to attend and your name and organisation.

What’s in a Men’s Shed for you?
Thursday 2nd July at Indian YMCA, Fitzroy Street W1T 6AQ
A Men’s Shed is a workshop for making, mending and hobbies. Groups of retired men love them and have opened more than two a week in the UK in the last 6 months. If you are interested in supporting:
~ men’s health and wellbeing,
~ community development or skill sharing,
~ in material reuse or getting something unique made,
Come and meet some members and hear why even more Sheds are needed.
or more info visit www.menssheds.org.uk. To book on this free event follow this link to Eventbrite

Volunteer Management Training from Volunteer Centre Camden
A full-day course on Tuesday 16 June
Presentation Skills Part One, is for those who fear public speaking and would like to gain confidence and a sense of calm to help you with this vital skill. Book via eventbrite.

Volunteers And The Law from Volunteer Centre Camden
A half-day session on Tuesday 7 July
The trainer is Mark Restall who has considerable expertise in this area. This is an essential beginners’ level course for everyone with concerns about involving volunteers safely and legally. Book via eventbrite.

Clean Break Information Day
Friday, 19 June 2015 19 June, 11am – 3pm
Clean Break is hosting an Information Day on Friday 19 June 2015 between 11am-3pm. We are a safe women-only theatre, education and new writing company based in Kentish Town, in the north-west of London. However on this occasion we welcome men who are working with women and are likely to make referrals to our service.
We offer free education and training in the arts specifically for women who have experience of the criminal justice system and/or are at risk of offending due to alcohol/substance misuse or mental heath needs. This is an invitation, for interested women, and you or your colleagues working with these women.
11-1.15pm: service providers only
1.15 – 3pm: prospective service users also welcome
Places are limited. To book your place: please email general@cleanbreak.org.uk for a booking form.
Clean Break, 2 Patshull Road, London, NW5 2LB

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.

Community Evening View at the British Museum
Saturday 27th June 2015, 6.20pm – 9pm.
Camden community and voluntary sector group members are invited to an exclusive Community Evening View at the British Museum Both special exhibitions will be open that evening – Defining beauty: the body in ancient Greek art and the BP exhibition Indigenous Australia: enduring civilisation.
To book your free tickets* email hbahra@britishmuseum.org before Monday 8th June stating:
· Name of your group or organisation:
· Number of tickets required for each exhibition**
o Defining Beauty (maximum of 20 tickets)
o Indigenous Australia (maximum of 10 tickets)
· Preferred entry time for each exhibition between 6.20pm – 8.10pm:
· Postal address to send tickets to:
Tickets to this preview are limited and distributed on a first-come first-served basis. Group numbers may be limited due to demand.
Requests for tickets must be made by the group leader and only one request per organisation.
Please issue group members with a ticket for one exhibition only.

Creating Connections 10
Monday 15th June, 6–8pm in the Front Quad Pavilion at University College London.
In celebration of our tenth event, Creating Connections 10 is taking Creativity and Collaboration as its twin themes. As with all previous Creating Connections, the aim of the event is to bring UCL’s academic staff and postgraduate researchers together with representatives of the community and voluntary sector (with a healthy sprinkling of arts, heritage and cultural organisations), to find areas of common interest and projects they can collaborate on. The evening is a mix of themed discussions in small groups with more informal networking.
Find out more and book your place by Monday 8th June

LGBT Inclusion Conference at Camden Working Men’s College
Tuesday, 16 June 2015 from 09:30 to 15:30
One day conference aimed at senior Equality and Diversity Managers within the Further Education sector to disseminate findings of WMC LGBT project, The Humane Selfie, Life Gets Better Together, and share good practice.
Further details about the ECU Funded project at WMC can be found on this link http://www.wmcollege.ac.uk/pages/equality.aspx
Lunch and refreshment provided. Book your free place at Eventbrite.

Taking a deep breath: Cleaning up London’s air
Tuesday 7th July 2015 16:30 – 21:00 (including drinks + canapes)
St Bride Foundation, Bridge Lane, London, EC4Y 8EQ
London continues to suffer the effects of poor air quality leading to around 4,300 early deaths per year. With ClientEarth’s recent win at the Supreme Court over the UK Government’s failure to meet legal limits for air pollution and the Mayor’s announcement of an Ultra Low Emission Zone, change is in the air. However more still needs to be done to protect our health and that of all Londoners.
The event will include short presentations by fantastic speakers followed by workshops and networking and drinks. We have designed the evening so that you get the greatest opportunity to contribute your ideas and make useful connections.
Please confirm your attendance here. Contact Sam Jelliman s.jelliman@lsx.org.uk 02072349400 for information

New Care Act e-learning training platform, MeLearning.
The courses available through the platform have been especially designed for the needs of Adult Social Care practitioners. They provide you with the opportunity to strengthen your knowledge of the Care Act, and count towards your CPD
You can take advantage of the wide variety of modules on separate aspects of the Care Act available through the platform, to ensure your knowledge is up to date. The courses can be accessed free of charge by all Council employees, as well as members of partner organisations.
https://camden.melearning.university/course_centre
If you experience any problems, please do not hesitate to contact us at TDSOnline@camden.gov.uk
or by calling 020 7974 3701/ 020 7974 2821.
We also provide bespoke, on site Safeguarding adults awareness training sessions. If you have members of staff who require the Basic Awareness safeguarding adults course (Level II), our Safeguarding adults training officer, Jacqui Robertson, can come to your institution and deliver the session.

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

Big Advice Day, June 16th, London – completely free 1:1 advice sessions with expert advisors
Big Advice Day is a day of free support for small charities as part of Small Charity Week 2015. The day consists of 1:1 hour long sessions with expert advisors; you choose the topics you’re interested in and we’ll match you to suitable advisors. We have advisors with expertise across a whole range of subjects
The day is completely free to attend includes refreshments. You can attend in person or access advice via phone or Skype. Those attending on the day will also benefit from a range of free workshops.
If you would like to attend Big Advice Day and you are a registered charity with a turnover of under £1.5m per year then sign up here by 18th May.

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

JOBS AND VOLUNTEERS

Ageing Better in Camden Community Connectors
A unique opportunity has arisen to work with C4, a diverse, successful and developing network of community centres in Camden – a great area we are working to make even better.
Are you up for the challenge of playing a key role in establishing and delivering an exciting new Lottery funded project to tackle isolation and loneliness among older people through encouraging their participation and connection to local networks? We are now recruiting five Area Coordinators.
Hours per week: 35. Two year initial contract, potential extension to six years
Salary: £28,845 including Inner London Weighting (SCP 29 NJC scale)
Full DBS (CRB) check will be required
Information pack and application form available on our website:
http://camdenconnect.org.uk/jobs-2/
or by emailing: camdencommunityconnectors@gmail.com
Closing Date: Thursday 9th July 2015 at 10 a.m.
Interviews will be held: 14th to 17th of July 2015

Helios Health seeks Volunteer Coordinator
Salary £9000 (part time)
Location Camden, London, Greater London
Volunteer Co-ordinator This post is funded by the Big Lottery in order to help us recruit, train and support our volunteers. The successful applicant will join our Core Team to help deliver long-term programmes of holistic health care and well-being, as well as support for our team of volunteers and practitioners in general. Post: Volunteer Co-ordinator Payment: £14.70 per hour Hours of work: 14 hours per week – hours can be flexible – Flexible between 9.30am – 7pm- Monday – Friday Contractual Period: 12 months contract. Location of work: The Helios Centre, 116 Judd St, WC1 H 9NS Annual leave: on pro rata basis, as per statutory requirement Responsible to: Management team Notice period: 1 month both ways (after probation period)
To apply go to the Charity Job website.

AgeUKCamden seeks Advice Team Manager
Local Government Scale PO2 £33,579-£36,186, plus 6% contributory pension.
The Advice Team Manager post is an exciting opportunity for a manager who is dynamic, focussed and a multitasker to make a real difference to the lives of older people in Camden You’ll need a background in areas such as welfare rights, advice or care management, and have spent at least 2 years successfully managing a team of staff and/or volunteers.
The postholder will manage the Age UK Camden (AUC) information, advice, support and advocacy (IAA) services and team. AUC’s IAA services are delivered by a staff and volunteer team in person (from the office, outreach venues, home visits), by phone, and online.
For further details and an application form visit our website www.ageukcamden.org.uk or email jobs@ageukcamden.org.uk or telephone 020 7239 0400. No CVs, no agencies please.
Closing date: 9:00am Monday 29th June 2015 Interviews: Monday 6th July 2015

Voicability seeks User Involvement Advocate
VoiceAbility supports people who face disadvantage or discrimination to have a voice that counts. Providing advocacy and user involvement services across England, VoiceAbility is a growing organisation working with people who are vulnerable or marginalised to raise their voices and have their rights respected.
Position: User Involvement Advocate
Location: Camden, London
Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Salary: £23,299 0k – £28,299k per annum inclusive of Inner London Weighting
Closing Date for Applications: 23rd June
Interview Date: 30th June and 1st July
The User Involvement Advocate will work directly with people with lived experience of substance misuse and / or mental ill health to help strengthen voice, champion rights and improve services. The role is to reach widely within the service user community to consult on lived experience, recruit volunteers and support peer to peer initiatives. More information and application form at the Voicability website.

Year Hear seek Graduate Volunteers
The Year Here programme is a post-graduate course in social innovation; we recruit brilliant graduates and challenge them to spend a year applying themselves to society’s toughest problems.
Frontline service sits at the heart of our programme and we are currently on the hunt for new placements for our graduates. Find out more here www.yearhere.org/hostafellow.

Volunteer Centre Camden seeks CEO
NJC pay scale 43, £40782 pro rata (including London Weighting) plus pension contribution. 30 hours per week (we can be flexible about how these hours are distributed throughout the week).
It’s a time of opportunity for Volunteer Centre Camden. As an organisation we want to change how we work, develop new partnerships and put Camden on the map as a centre of excellence for volunteering.
Our next CEO needs to have excellent fundraising skills, an ability to lead change and influence external partners. You will have a passion for volunteering which is infectious, we need others to be excited about volunteering and its potential.
Now is a crucial time for development. We have funding until March 2016. A key part of this role will be to develop partnerships and secure funding beyond March 2016.
We are looking for someone who can live and breathe our values; To work in partnership, deliver quality, adapt, be positive and be inclusive. You will be proactive and able to work with the Board of Trustees to develop and deliver amazing services.
With successful fundraising activity there will be the scope for this role to be extended beyond March 2015 on a full or part time basis. Details on our website; http://volunteercentrecamden.org.uk/we-are-recruiting-a-ceo/

Coram’s Fields seeks Sessional Play Worker
Coram’s Fields Out of School Club (OSC). Salary: £9.15 per hour
Hours Anticipated full-time during holiday periods, up to 15 hours during term time Coram’s Fields Out of School Club (OSC) is looking for exceptional individuals to become part of our dedicated team to help deliver our hugely successful OSC and holiday scheme programmes for young people aged 4-12 years.
If you are interested in applying for this role, please complete an application form, (Downloadable from the website) ensuring that you address the criteria outlined within it. All applications should be returned to Kate Gardner, Out of School Club Manager by 5pm on Monday 15th June. Applications are accepted by e-mail or in hard copy and should be submitted in the following way;
By e-mail to: kate.gardner@coramsfields.org.uk
By post to; Kate Gardner, Out of School Club Manager, Coram’s Fields, 93 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1DN
Alternatively, if you have any questions about the role, please feel free to contact Kate for an
informal discussion on 020 3384 2212. More information on our services can be found at www.coramsfields.org

People’s Centre for Change seek Services and Volunteer Coordinator (Part time 16 hours)
Location: 10 minutes away from Kilburn tube station and from home
Salary: Pro rata of £22,292.00
People’s Centre for Change is committed to providing meaningful and life enhancing day opportunities for adults with severe learning disabilities, autism and/or complex needs, in an inclusive environment. We run pilot sessions once or two afternoons per week and are seeking to expand and recruit new members from the wider neighbourhood.
We are looking for a dynamic, enthusiastic and well organised person with the skills and vision to lead community building, coordinating activities and recruiting, training and managing a small team of volunteers. We need a warm, caring and energetic person with “can do” attitude and a strong commitment to an inclusive, flexible and creative service.
You will be confident and experienced in working a community setting and with people with learning disabilities and have an awareness the adult social care world. You will need excellent communication skills and a good standard of general education. Relevant professional qualifications are desirable but not essential.
If you are interested please email us so we can send you the Job Description and Person Specification and then send your CV and a personal statement to: peoplescentre4change@gmail.com
Closing date for applications: 22nd June 2015
Interviews will take place on 29th or 30th June 2015. This post is subject to a DBS check.

This summer The Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust will be holding elections for its Council of Governors
Trust would like to invite as many members of the public to stand as possible. There are eleven seats for public members available.
Anyone over 18, with an interest in what we do can apply. Our Council of Governors is a collection of elected people – patients, carers, members of the public, students, staff and people from partner organisations. Anyone can become a Governor, meaning a variety of informed views and opinions influence the work we do. Our Governors work alongside the Board of Directors and are responsible for helping to shape our work. They make sure we continue to work for the benefit of patients and students.
You can also find out more information on our website: https://tavistockandportman.uk/GovernorElections, where you will find a ‘register your interest’ form and information on the time commitment and what we are looking for. We are also planning on running some drop in sessions in June and July, so keep an eye out on our website for future updates around these.
For more information about becoming a Governor or details on how to get a nomination form please contact Gervase Campbell, our Trust Secretary on: TSecretary@tavi-port.nhs.uk.

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.
PAs can carry out a wide range of tasks, as agreed with you, to help with things such as washing, getting dressed, cooking, and supporting you to go out and about.
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 p hone: 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/

OFFERS, RESOURCES and ANNOUNCEMENTS

Camden Consultations
Various consultations are out at the moment including a consultation on Camden Future Libraries and Camden VCS strategy and changes to early education and childcare and children’s centre services. You can find all Camden consultation on the Wearecamden consultation hub.

Accessible Leisure Centre Guide
A guide to accessible leisure centre facilities has been produced by Camden council.
You can also download a copy from the website: www.camden.gov.uk/disabilitysport

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.

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To get discounts on training, room hire and many more benefits click here to join Voluntary Action Camden

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If you have an item for the e-bulletin, please email it to Kevin Nunan, knunan@vac.org.uk with a note of which section you would like it to appear under.

Voluntary Action Camden e-Bulletin 5th June 2015

Highlights: National Carers’ Week 2015; Pamper Day to Celebrate National Carers Week; Council Consultation with Voluntary and Community Sector – 5 Sessions; Annual Active For All – Give it a Go day; Charity Fair ; What’s in a Men’s Shed for you? Camden is 50 Years Old; Consultation with Older People in St Pancras and Somerstown; Get Ready for Refugee Week 2015; plus news, funding, events, jobs, volunteering and more.

NEWS

National Carers’ Week 2015
Monday 8th to Sunday 14th June is Carers’ Week in Camden with events all around the borough. For full details contact Camden Carers Centre; 020 7428 8950 or email: info@camdencs.org.uk or go to www.camdencs.org.uk/carers-week

8th to 15th June is Carers’ Week in Camden with events for unpaid carers around the borough.
Monday 8th – Deprivation of Liberty legal training, 10.30am – 12pm
Tuppence Worth (Central School of Speech and Drama) – Carers’ Week celebration event, 12 – 2pm
Tuesday 9th – Carers’ Week walk and picnic, 10.30am – 2pm
Wednesday 10th – Tuppence Worth (Central School of Speech and Drama) – Carers’ Week celebration event, 12 – 2pm
Carers’ Health and Wellbeing Fair, Centre 404, 404 Camden Road, N7 0SJ, 10.30am – 3pm
Thursday 11th – Memory Project Street Party for older and dementia carers (can be accompanied by their cared-for), 2 – 4.30pm
Performance piece by Face to Face, Festival of Soho theatre group , 4.30 – 6pm
Friday 12th – Pamper Day and health clinic at Age UK Camden
Tuppence Worth (Central School of Speech and Drama) – Carers Get Creative exhibition day, 10.30 am – 3.30pm: workshops, exhibitions and live showcase of work created by carers.
Yoga and relaxation, 1.30 – 2.30pm – for carers new to yoga.
For all Tuppence Worth events please contact Maeve Morgan on 020 7722 8183 or email tuppence.worthtc@gmail.com
For the Health and Wellbeing Fair (Weds 10th) ring Centre 404 on 020 7697 1336
For the Age UK Pamper Day phone Age UK Camden on 020 7278 5090
For all other events please contact Camden Carers Service on 020 7428 8950 or email info@camdencs.org.uk

Pamper Day to Celebrate National Carers Week
Do you know a carer who needs a treat? On Friday June 12th 2015 Age UK Camden and Women+Health are celebrating National Carers Week with a morning of pampering at Great Croft Resource Centre. Carers are encouraged to come along and put their feet up, but all are welcome! Those attending can get a head and neck massage, and have their hands painted with henna, and there is also the opportunity to attend a health clinic for any nagging health worries. Tea and coffee will be served and the morning will finish with a full lunch at 12noon.
10am —Registration, Tea & Coffee
10am-12pm—Henna painting
10.30am-12.30pm— Head & shoulder massage
11am-12pm Health Clinic with Ezra Burnette (Women+Health)
12pm-1pm Lunch
Please come and join us, 10am-1pm, at Great Croft Resource Centre, Age UK Camden, Cromer Street, Kings Cross, WC1H 8LF. Tel: 020 7278 5090

Camden Carers Service Presents: Face to Face Festival of Solo Theatre
Thursday 11th June
Camden carers and family members join us for this one-off live show in the Council Chambers, Camden Town Hall, Judd Street,WC1H 9JE. The performance will be taking place on Thursday 11th June. Please arrive at 4:30pm for a 5pm start. The play ends at 6pm followed by a questions and answers session for 30 minutes.
Light refreshments will be available. The event is free. For information and booking for this and other
Carers’ Week events in Camden, please ring Camden Carers Service on 020 7428 8950 or email info@camdencarers.org.uk

Council Consultation with Voluntary and Community Sector
The Council is seeking VCS views on alternative approaches to developing a new grants programme for the sector. Four options are proposed for comment which range from improving the current mixed-funding model to a more radical collective impact approach, co-ordinating a partnership around a geographic area or a theme. The sector’s views will be used to develop a preferred approach that is likely to be a mix of the options. The engagement document and survey are available here www.camden.gov.uk/vcsengagement
As part of the eight week engagement process, five informal sessions have been arranged to enable staff and trustees of VCS organisations to explore the options in the engagement paper ‘Investing in a Sustainable Strategic Relationship’ further. These run for a week from June 8th at various locations across Camden. Staff from both Camden Council and Voluntary Action Camden will be available.
· West Euston Partnership Monday 8th in the evening 5.30 to 7.30pm
· VAC: Tuesday 9th Lunchtime 12-2pm
· VAC Thursday 11th evening 5.30-7.30pm
· Holborn Library Training Room Wednesday 10th June lunchtime 12-2pm
· Abbey Community Centre Friday 12th lunch time 12-2pm
No need to book – just turn up. Contact VAC for any queries..

Tomorrow! Annual Active For All – Give it a Go day, we need you!
The Active for All- Give it a Go! day is a free, fun and inclusive day for disabled children and young people aged 0 – 25 and their families. Participants will have an opportunity to try a fantastic range of inclusive, new and adapted sports, dance and arts activities including: Adapted Cycling, Archery, Football, Dance, Badminton, Boccia, Gymnastics, Trampolining, Soft play, Arts and Crafts, Cricket, Athletics, New Age Kurling, arts and crafts
Saturday, 6 June, at Talacre Sports Centre, 10:45am to 4:15pm. More info here.
Calling Volunteers: Talacre need volunteers to help with all aspects of the day. Setting up and clearing up before and after the event, greeting the public, supporting sports sessions and activities (listed above), registration and reception desk, signposting activities and generally encouraging visitors to take part.
If you are interested in supporting part or all of the day, please email me. If you have a particular skill or area of interest (from the above information) please let me know and I will try to match you to it.
For more information about this opportunity, contact Jessica Neece on Jessica.neece@camden.gov.uk

Charity Fair from Directory of Social Change
30th June and 1st July, Holloway Road
Whatever your role in the sector, there is training for you here: Charityfair has 64 workshops, from only £35, covering a huge variety of topics including fundraising, management & leadership, marketing, governance, personal development, legal & finance, wellbeing, campaigning & lobbying and organisational support.
More information and booking at www.charityfair.org.uk.
We have 2 free workshop tickets for Camden groups. Contact Kevin at VAC stating name and date of the session you would like to attend and your name and organisation.

What’s in a Men’s Shed for you?
Thursday 2nd July at Indian YMCA, Fitzroy Street W1T 6AQ
A Men’s Shed is a workshop for making, mending and hobbies. Groups of retired men love them and have opened more than two a week in the UK in the last 6 months. If you are interested in supporting:
~ men’s health and wellbeing,
~ community development or skill sharing,
~ in material reuse or getting something unique made,
Come and meet some members and hear why even more Sheds are needed.
or more info visit www.menssheds.org.uk. To book on this free event follow this link to Eventbrite

National News
NAVCA is backing the cross-party call from the Local Government Association that there should be no further local government funding reductions.
A joint letter to the Observer said that further cuts would damage “services that bind our communities and protect the most vulnerable.” Neil Cleeveley, Chief Executive of NAVCA, said;
“NAVCA members know more than most the damage local government cuts are having on local communities. As well as creating hardship and suffering, cuts also mean local charities and community groups are less able to provide the support needed. We must resist further local government cuts.”
We are also interested in compiling a list of national MPs who are campaigning to protect local services.
We can use this as a resource to campaign against local cuts. Please send any examples to barney.mynott@navca.org.uk.
Social care crisis looks far from being resolved
A report being published by adult social care chiefs has warned of £1.1bn budget cuts to the sector. It comes after unendurable cutbacks in the last four years and the Association of Directors of Adult Social Service (ADASS) warns these further cuts will leave those in the greatest need vulnerable.
Residents Want Stronger Voice finds Survey. Full story at ITV.
The majority of people want to be more involved in decisions which affect their communities and would like more opportunities to help their neighbours, according to survey results commissioned by the charity Local Trust.
Local Trust’s survey results found that:
~ three quarters of us (76%) think residents are best placed to know what is needed in their community
~ two thirds (63%) are willing to help their neighbours and community if there are opportunities to do so
~ three in five (61%) would like to be given the opportunity to help decide how money from funders is spent.
DLA ends 30th June
The Disabled Living Fund is ending on 30th June and responsibility for funding tranfers to local authorities. In Control are collecting users experiences of the transition. Share your experience via the survey.
Disabled payment delay unlawful, judge rules
UK government took ‘unlawful and unacceptably long time’ to pay welfare benefits to two disabled people. The judge added: “There is a high duty on local authorities to act promptly, consistently and appropriately to recognize social welfare benefits. There can be no public interest in delays such as was the case here.” Full story in the Guardian.
A History of the Volunteer: how active citizenship became the big society
The Guardian examines the evolution, from medieval volunteer hospitals to ‘professional’ volunteer support, forever at the mercy of political rebranding.

Camden is 50 Years Old
The current London boroughs were created in 1965 and London Councils have celebrated the anniversary with a booklet and short film as well as a gallery and political almanac.

Ageing Better in Camden – Consultation with Older People in St Pancras and Somerstown
We want to hear the views of older people on a new project planned for the Somerstown and St Pancras area. The project aims to bring older people together to listen and promote the voices of older people and by doing so to tackle causes of isolation and loneliness.
Tea and coffee available from 1:45pm
10th June 2015 from 2 – 4:30 pm in St Pancras
This is a free event, but please RSVP to Corinna.hyman@ageukcamden.org.uk or Julia.shelley@ageukcamden.org.uk or 020 7239 0400, to book your place.

Get Ready for Refugee Week 2015
15th – 21st June is Refugee Week. The theme of this year is ‘Celebrate’. Celebrate the contribution of refugees to the UK. Did you know that The Voice star Rita Ora was a refugee? Or that the family of artist Lucien Freud moved to London in the 1930s to avoid persecution by the Nazis?
They are just two of the personalities highlighted by Traces Project, the first digital timeline to tell the untold history of artists who have sought safety in the UK from conflict and persecution.

Refugees – Rebuilding Lives in Camden
This walk explores the impact of Refugees on Camden, and shows how they have impacted on the history and life of the Borough.
All the ticket money for this walk goes to Amnesty International.
22nd June 2015 From 19:00 to 21:00
Starting from Mornington Crescent Underground Station, Eversholt Street, NW1 1BL
London Organiser: Footprints and Amnesty Mayfair & Soho group
Contact: ayeshamehta653@gmail.com Price £10

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

Coram’s Fields, Volunteer Centre Camden, Age Uk Camden, People’s Centre for Change, The Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, MEWSO, Bedford House, 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

FUNDING NEWS

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

Building Better Opportunities
Building Better Opportunities brings together money from the Big Lottery Fund and the European Social Fund 2014-2020 to provide joint investment in local projects that tackle poverty and promote social inclusion.
The programmes in London include support for economically inactive and long term unemployed women from BAME communities, as well as for those with caring responsibilities. It also includes an intermediate labour market (ILM) programme for people with disabilities who have spent long periods out of work.
In addition to the Project Outlines, additional information for each of these programmes can be found here on the London Enterprise Panel’s website.
Assessment of applications to the Big Lottery Fund will include consideration of how well applications address the information published in the additional information documents as well as in the Project Outlines.
The Big Lottery Fund Project Outlines can be accessed here.
While details about the application process can be found here.
The deadline for applications is 12 Noon on Monday 3rd August.

Skipton Building Society Grassroots Giving 2015 Now Open
Skipton Building Society launched its award-winning Grassroots Giving programme in 2013 to help celebrate its 160th anniversary. That year we gave away 160 pots of £500 to deserving community-based organisations across the UK. This year 162 £500 awards will be made. Note that this is aimed at small community groups and excludes registered charities. Skipton have also published some useful resources. Full details and FAQ here.

Crowdfunding?
Don’t forget that there is a dedicated page on Spacehive just for Camden projects. And set up costs are free to Camden groups. Find out more at Spacehive Camden.

Vote for Kentish Town City Farm in Jewson’s Building Better Communities competition – your vote will help them win funding.

The Origin Housing Community Grants Programme
The 2015/16 programme is now open, with the first deadline being Monday 29 June.
Everything you need to apply can be found online here: http://www.originhousing.org.uk/communitygrants.aspx
We welcome all applications for projects that will benefit our residents and customers, and fit into one or more of the following themes:
Building Stronger Communities
Gardening Food and Environmental
Celebrating Heritage
Origin anticipate spending all the budget in this first round. The deadline is 29 June.

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

VAC EVENTS

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

Mental health courses and workshops from VAC
To book your place, 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 based in Camden or which serve Camden residents. Places are limited on each course to a maximum of two people per organisation.
If you have any queries about our training, please contact us on our new email address: mentalhealthteam@vac.org.uk.

OTHER EVENTS

Volunteer Management Training from Volunteer Centre Camden
A full-day course on Tuesday 16 June
Presentation Skills Part One, is for those who fear public speaking and would like to gain confidence and a sense of calm to help you with this vital skill. Book via eventbrite.

Volunteers And The Law from Volunteer Centre Camden
A half-day session on Tuesday 7 July
The trainer is Mark Restall who has considerable expertise in this area. This is an essential beginners’ level course for everyone with concerns about involving volunteers safely and legally. Book via eventbrite.

Camden Patient & Public Engagement Group Open Meeting – Monday 8th June, 2pm – 4pm, St Pancras Hospital, Conference Hall
Please come along if you want to know more about the Camden Story (the health needs of local people, the outcomes reached and impact one year on) and the introduction of Mental Health Peer Mentoring which is supported by Voiceability. The operational meeting is scheduled to start at 4:15pm and the recently appointed Head of Communications and Engagement, Francesca McNeil, will be coming to the meeting to introduce herself.
Presentation 1: The Camden Story (2015)
Presenter: Richard Cartwright, Insights Manager, Camden Clinical Commissioning Group
Presentation 2: Mental Health Peer Mentoring (Voiceability).
Presenter: Rachel Killick, Service user involvement advocate, Voiceability.
Please RSVP Edith Raie, CPPEG Administrator by email: Edith.Raie@camdenccg.nhs.uk or Tel: 0203 688 2044

Clean Break Information Day
Friday, 19 June 2015 19 June, 11am – 3pm
Clean Break is hosting an Information Day on Friday 19 June 2015 between 11am-3pm. We are a safe women-only theatre, education and new writing company based in Kentish Town, in the north-west of London. However on this occasion we welcome men who are working with women and are likely to make referrals to our service.
We offer free education and training in the arts specifically for women who have experience of the criminal justice system and/or are at risk of offending due to alcohol/substance misuse or mental heath needs. This is an invitation, for interested women, and you or your colleagues working with these women.
11-1.15pm: service providers only
1.15 – 3pm: prospective service users also welcome
Places are limited. To book your place: please email general@cleanbreak.org.uk for a booking form.
Clean Break, 2 Patshull Road, London, NW5 2LB

SYLVIA: The play about Sylvia Pankhurst, artist and suffragette
7pm – Friday 12 June 2015
Crossroads Women’s Centre, 25 Wolsey Mews, London NW5 2DX 7pm Friday 12 June 2015 Wheelchair
Crossroads Women’s Centre, 25 Wolsey Mews, Kentish Town, London NW5 2DX
£3.50 unwaged & low-waged £7 higher waged no one turned away for lack of funds
Booking: contact@crossroadswomen.net or 020 7482 2496
Sign language interpreter to be confirmed No admission after 7.15pm

The Evelyn Oldfield Unit invites you to Conference for Research for Action and Influence Students and Refugee Week celebration
Thursday, 18th June 2015, 1.30-5.30pmat Resource for London, 356 Holloway Road
This event will see student presentations followed by cultural celebration of Refugee Week, including special guests, funders and politicians.
The researchers will present new thoughts and findings on issues faced by London’s migrants
The Evelyn Oldfield Unit is running the accredited Research for Action & Influence course, a 9 month programme for members of London’s refugee and migrant communities. This course will culminate in this conference whereby the groups present the findings of their research and actions as above.
To book a place please contact Alexandra Ceriu Tel: 0207 697 4105. Email: alexandra@evelynoldfield.co.uk

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.

Black & Minority Ethnic Organisations Networking & skill-sharing event
Wednesday 10th June, 11am-1pm
We’d like to invite BME organisations in Camden to meet up for an informal event:
Kindly hosted by Zeena Nahi at the Somali Community Centre, 1-2 Lismore Circus, Gospel Oak, NW5 4QF
This will be a chance to get to know each other better and think about ways to work together in the future.
For more information, contact Shadin 020 7424 9990 shadin@volunteercentrecamden.org.uk

Community Evening View at the British Museum
Saturday 27th June 2015, 6.20pm – 9pm.
Camden community and voluntary sector group members are invited to an exclusive Community Evening View at the British Museum Both special exhibitions will be open that evening – Defining beauty: the body in ancient Greek art and the BP exhibition Indigenous Australia: enduring civilisation.
To book your free tickets* email hbahra@britishmuseum.org before Monday 8th June stating:
· Name of your group or organisation:
· Number of tickets required for each exhibition**
o Defining Beauty (maximum of 20 tickets)
o Indigenous Australia (maximum of 10 tickets)
· Preferred entry time for each exhibition between 6.20pm – 8.10pm:
· Postal address to send tickets to:
Tickets to this preview are limited and distributed on a first-come first-served basis. Group numbers may be limited due to demand.
Requests for tickets must be made by the group leader and only one request per organisation.
Please issue group members with a ticket for one exhibition only.

Action Learning Workshop for Older People’s Organisations
Older Londoners and Pension Reform
30th June 2015, 10:00-1:30pm
Salvation Army Community Church, 1 Princess Street, London SE1 6HH
Light Lunch will be served
Please confirm your attendance by registering here: https://olderlondonersandpensionreform.eventbrite.co.uk or emailing Janinealdridge@ageuklondon.org.uk or Telephone 020 7091 2594

Creating Connections 10
Monday 15th June, 6–8pm in the Front Quad Pavilion at University College London.
In celebration of our tenth event, Creating Connections 10 is taking Creativity and Collaboration as its twin themes. As with all previous Creating Connections, the aim of the event is to bring UCL’s academic staff and postgraduate researchers together with representatives of the community and voluntary sector (with a healthy sprinkling of arts, heritage and cultural organisations), to find areas of common interest and projects they can collaborate on. The evening is a mix of themed discussions in small groups with more informal networking.
Find out more and book your place by Monday 8th June

LGBT Inclusion Conference at Camden Working Men’s College
Tuesday, 16 June 2015 from 09:30 to 15:30
One day conference aimed at senior Equality and Diversity Managers within the Further Education sector to disseminate findings of WMC LGBT project, The Humane Selfie, Life Gets Better Together, and share good practice.
Further details about the ECU Funded project at WMC can be found on this link http://www.wmcollege.ac.uk/pages/equality.aspx
Lunch and refreshment provided. Book your free place at Eventbrite.

Taking a deep breath: Cleaning up London’s air
Tuesday 7th July 2015 16:30 – 21:00 (including drinks + canapes)
St Bride Foundation, Bridge Lane, London, EC4Y 8EQ
London continues to suffer the effects of poor air quality leading to around 4,300 early deaths per year. With ClientEarth’s recent win at the Supreme Court over the UK Government’s failure to meet legal limits for air pollution and the Mayor’s announcement of an Ultra Low Emission Zone, change is in the air. However more still needs to be done to protect our health and that of all Londoners.
The event will include short presentations by fantastic speakers followed by workshops and networking and drinks. We have designed the evening so that you get the greatest opportunity to contribute your ideas and make useful connections.
Please confirm your attendance here. Contact Sam Jelliman s.jelliman@lsx.org.uk 02072349400 for information

New Care Act e-learning training platform, MeLearning.
The courses available through the platform have been especially designed for the needs of Adult Social Care practitioners. They provide you with the opportunity to strengthen your knowledge of the Care Act, and count towards your CPD
You can take advantage of the wide variety of modules on separate aspects of the Care Act available through the platform, to ensure your knowledge is up to date. The courses can be accessed free of charge by all Council employees, as well as members of partner organisations.
https://camden.melearning.university/course_centre
If you experience any problems, please do not hesitate to contact us at TDSOnline@camden.gov.uk
or by calling 020 7974 3701/ 020 7974 2821.
We also provide bespoke, on site Safeguarding adults awareness training sessions. If you have members of staff who require the Basic Awareness safeguarding adults course (Level II), our Safeguarding adults training officer, Jacqui Robertson, can come to your institution and deliver the session.

Camden People’s Theatre present Stand Up and Down
A man tries to get out of a personal predicament by going into comedy. Things go well for a while – but soon he’s finding it harder to make people laugh. Might this be to do with something inside himself? At a drop-in centre for people with psychological problems, he starts to see himself and society in a different way…
The Stand Up and Down raises awareness of mental health as a social issue. One in four people will be affected by psychological problems at some point in their life. Des Marshall writer, Harry Meacher director sees theatre as a creative way of addressing these concerns.
Tue 9 Jun 2015 – Sun 21 Jun 2015, 7.30pm and 4pm on Sundays at Camden People’s Theatre, 58 – 60 Hampstead Road, NW1 2PY, Tickets: £12 / 10.
Box Office – 0207 419 4841 www.cptheatre.co.uk

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

Big Advice Day, June 16th, London – completely free 1:1 advice sessions with expert advisors
Big Advice Day is a day of free support for small charities as part of Small Charity Week 2015. The day consists of 1:1 hour long sessions with expert advisors; you choose the topics you’re interested in and we’ll match you to suitable advisors. We have advisors with expertise across a whole range of subjects
The day is completely free to attend includes refreshments. You can attend in person or access advice via phone or Skype. Those attending on the day will also benefit from a range of free workshops.
If you would like to attend Big Advice Day and you are a registered charity with a turnover of under £1.5m per year then sign up here by 18th May.

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

JOBS AND VOLUNTEERS

Volunteer Centre Camden seeks CEO
NJC pay scale 43, £40782 pro rata (including London Weighting) plus pension contribution. 30 hours per week (we can be flexible about how these hours are distributed throughout the week).
It’s a time of opportunity for Volunteer Centre Camden. As an organisation we want to change how we work, develop new partnerships and put Camden on the map as a centre of excellence for volunteering.
Our next CEO needs to have excellent fundraising skills, an ability to lead change and influence external partners. You will have a passion for volunteering which is infectious, we need others to be excited about volunteering and its potential.
Now is a crucial time for development. We have funding until March 2016. A key part of this role will be to develop partnerships and secure funding beyond March 2016.
We are looking for someone who can live and breathe our values; To work in partnership, deliver quality, adapt, be positive and be inclusive. You will be proactive and able to work with the Board of Trustees to develop and deliver amazing services.
With successful fundraising activity there will be the scope for this role to be extended beyond March 2015 on a full or part time basis. Details on our website; http://volunteercentrecamden.org.uk/we-are-recruiting-a-ceo/

Coram’s Fields seeks Sessional Play Worker
Coram’s Fields Out of School Club (OSC). Salary: £9.15 per hour
Hours Anticipated full-time during holiday periods, up to 15 hours during term time Coram’s Fields Out of School Club (OSC) is looking for exceptional individuals to become part of our dedicated team to help deliver our hugely successful OSC and holiday scheme programmes for young people aged 4-12 years.
If you are interested in applying for this role, please complete an application form, (Downloadable from the website) ensuring that you address the criteria outlined within it. All applications should be returned to Kate Gardner, Out of School Club Manager by 5pm on Monday 15th June. Applications are accepted by e-mail or in hard copy and should be submitted in the following way;
By e-mail to: kate.gardner@coramsfields.org.uk
By post to; Kate Gardner, Out of School Club Manager, Coram’s Fields, 93 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1DN
Alternatively, if you have any questions about the role, please feel free to contact Kate for an
informal discussion on 020 3384 2212. More information on our services can be found at www.coramsfields.org

People’s Centre for Change seek Services and Volunteer Coordinator (Part time 16 hours)
Location: 10 minutes away from Kilburn tube station and from home
Salary: Pro rata of £22,292.00
People’s Centre for Change is committed to providing meaningful and life enhancing day opportunities for adults with severe learning disabilities, autism and/or complex needs, in an inclusive environment. We run pilot sessions once or two afternoons per week and are seeking to expand and recruit new members from the wider neighbourhood.
We are looking for a dynamic, enthusiastic and well organised person with the skills and vision to lead community building, coordinating activities and recruiting, training and managing a small team of volunteers. We need a warm, caring and energetic person with “can do” attitude and a strong commitment to an inclusive, flexible and creative service.
You will be confident and experienced in working a community setting and with people with learning disabilities and have an awareness the adult social care world. You will need excellent communication skills and a good standard of general education. Relevant professional qualifications are desirable but not essential.
If you are interested please email us so we can send you the Job Description and Person Specification and then send your CV and a personal statement to: peoplescentre4change@gmail.com
Closing date for applications: 22nd June 2015
Interviews will take place on 29th or 30th June 2015. This post is subject to a DBS check.

This summer The Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust will be holding elections for its Council of Governors
Trust would like to invite as many members of the public to stand as possible. There are eleven seats for public members available.
Anyone over 18, with an interest in what we do can apply. Our Council of Governors is a collection of elected people – patients, carers, members of the public, students, staff and people from partner organisations. Anyone can become a Governor, meaning a variety of informed views and opinions influence the work we do. Our Governors work alongside the Board of Directors and are responsible for helping to shape our work. They make sure we continue to work for the benefit of patients and students.
You can also find out more information on our website: https://tavistockandportman.uk/GovernorElections, where you will find a ‘register your interest’ form and information on the time commitment and what we are looking for. We are also planning on running some drop in sessions in June and July, so keep an eye out on our website for future updates around these.
For more information about becoming a Governor or details on how to get a nomination form please contact Gervase Campbell, our Trust Secretary on: TSecretary@tavi-port.nhs.uk.

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.
PAs can carry out a wide range of tasks, as agreed with you, to help with things such as washing, getting dressed, cooking, and supporting you to go out and about.
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 p hone: 020 7278 4437

MEWSO seeks Arabic and/or Kurdish speaking counsellor
MEWSO is a growing registered charity set up in 2010 to address the needs of women in Middle Eastern communities in the absence of priority placed on their needs within the community organisations mainly run by male and elder members of the communities.
MEWSo is currently looking for an Arabic and/or Kurdish speaking counsellor to provide this important service to the more and more clients who come to us for help every week.
As our clients are mainly refugee women from the Middle East who have suffered various traumas, often including domestic violence, it is very important for them to find a safe space to open up and someone to help them dealing with these traumas. For these reasons, the counsellor would need to be a female, and previous experience would be preferable.
We are looking for a sessional worker, days, times and amount of working hours will be discussed and arranged according to the needs and availability of both the counsellor and the clients.
The paying wage would be of £17ph. The position is open from now.
We would be very grateful if you could spread the word and advertise this position to someone you think could be interested.
If interested and you want more information, please contact MEWSo via email or on the phone and visit our website:
www.mewso.org email: office@mewso.org Tel: 07958145666

Bedford House seeks Volunteers
Nahida Chowdhury, the Senior Community Organiser based at Bedford House, Holborn, is looking for local volunteers to work alongside her and learn Community Organising skills. If you want more information or are interested in this opportunity please contact nahida.chowdhury@corganisers.org.uk

Hopscotch seeks Care Supervisor (Maternity Cover)
35 hrs per week (job share may be considered for the right candidates)
12 months, until July 2016 25,034 incl. ILW
Closing date: 11th June 2015
A confident and conscientious Bengali-speaking worker is required to provide supervision support to a challenging and rewarding service within Hopscotch. The Home Care service offers health and personal care to older people, those who are housebound and to adults with disabilities, to help support their independence and improve their quality of life.
We provide a specialist care service, with a particular focus on the South Asian community. Most of our carers are bilingual. This means they speak English and a range of languages including Bengali, Sylheti, Hindi, Urdu, Nepali, Arabic and Somali.
The Care Supervisor will be responsible for the efficient running of the service and making sure that all care plans are delivered accurately at all times. They will be responsible for quality checks, risk assessments and the training and supervision of a team of care workers. The majority of their time will be spent in the field. They will also be required to share responsibility with Care Coordinators for an emergency on-call service.
For an informal discussion about the post, jd and application please contact Melissa McClelland, Homecare Registered Manager at info@hopscotchawc.org.uk

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/

OFFERS, RESOURCES and ANNOUNCEMENTS

Camden Consultations
Various consultations are out at the moment including a consultation on Camden Future Libraries and Camden VCS strategy and changes to early education and childcare and children’s centre services. You can find all Camden consultation on the Wearecamden consultation hub.

Accessible Leisure Centre Guide
A guide to accessible leisure centre facilities has been produced by Camden council.
You can also download a copy from the website: www.camden.gov.uk/disabilitysport

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.

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To get discounts on training, room hire and many more benefits click here to join Voluntary Action Camden

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If you have an item for the e-bulletin, please email it to Kevin Nunan, knunan@vac.org.uk with a note of which section you would like it to appear under.

Voluntary Action Camden e-Bulletin 29th May 2015

Highlights: Council Consultation with Voluntary and Community Sector; Annual Active For All – Give it a Go day; Living Wage Friendly Funders; Charity Fair from Directory of Social Change; Celebrate Ageing Better in Camden; Volunteers Week 2015 1 – 7 June; National Carers’ Week 2014; Ageing Better in Camden – Consultation with Older People in St Pancras and Somerstown; SYLVIA: The play about Sylvia Pankhurst, artist and suffragette; Frontline Camden Drug and Alcohol User Involvement Group; Camden Patient & Public Engagement Group Open Meeting ; Clean Break Information Day; plus news, funding, events, jobs, volunteering and more.

NEWS

Council Consultation with Voluntary and Community Sector
Camden Council launched an eight week engagement on Tuesday 19th May at Senate House. The event was attended by over 60 representatives from Camden’s sector. The Council is seeking VCS views on alternative approaches to developing a new grants programme for the sector. Four options are proposed for comment which range from improving the current mixed-funding model to a more radical collective impact approach, co-ordinating a partnership around a geographic area or a theme. The sector’s views will be used to develop a preferred approach that is likely to be a mix of the options. The engagement document and survey are available here www.camden.gov.uk/vcsengagement
The council is also organising with VAC a series of evening and lunch-time drop-in sessions across the borough the week of the 8th June.
Five informal sessions have been arranged to enable staff and trustees of VCS organisations to explore the options in the engagement paper ‘Investing in a Sustainable Strategic Relationship’ further. These run for a week from June 8th at various locations across Camden. Staff from both Camden Council and Voluntary Action Camden will be available.
· West Euston Partnership Monday 8th in the evening so 5.30 to 7.30pm
· VAC: Tuesday 9th Lunchtime 12-2pm
· VAC Thursday 11th evening 5.30-7.30pm
· Holborn Library Training Room Wednesday 10th June lunchtime 12-2pm
· Abbey Community Centre Friday 12th lunch time 12-2pm

Annual Active For All – Give it a Go day, we need you!
The Active for All- Give it a Go! day is a free, fun and inclusive day for disabled children and young people aged 0 – 25 and their families. Participants will have an opportunity to try a fantastic range of inclusive, new and adapted sports, dance and arts activities including: Adapted Cycling, Archery, Football, Dance, Badminton, Boccia, Gymnastics, Trampolining, Soft play, Arts and Crafts, Cricket, Athletics, New Age Kurling, arts and crafts
Saturday, 6 June, at Talacre Sports Centre, 10:45am to 4:15pm. More info here.
Calling Volunteers: Talacre need volunteers to help with all aspects of the day. Setting up and clearing up before and after the event, greeting the public, supporting sports sessions and activities (listed above), registration and reception desk, signposting activities and generally encouraging visitors to take part.
If you are interested in supporting part or all of the day, please email me. If you have a particular skill or area of interest (from the above information) please let me know and I will try to match you to it.
For more information about this opportunity, contact Jessica Neece on Jessica.neece@camden.gov.uk

Living Wage Friendly Funders
Launch 1st June, 11.30am-1pm.
The Living Wage Foundation are launching a new scheme, awarding a fair-trade badge for funders that align their grant making to the Living Wage.
For more information about the scheme from funders that have tried and tested the scheme please join the Living Wage Foundation at Resource for London on
Spaces are limited. Please RSVP to info@livingwage.org.uk

Charity Fair from Directory of Social Change
30th June and 1st July, Holloway Road
Whatever your role in the sector, there is training for you here: Charityfair has 64 workshops, from only £35, covering a huge variety of topics including fundraising, management & leadership, marketing, governance, personal development, legal & finance, wellbeing, campaigning & lobbying and organisational support.
More information and booking at www.charityfair.org.uk.
We have 2 free workshop tickets for unfunded Camden groups (less than £1500 turnover). Contact Kevin at VAC stating name and date of the session you would like to attend and your name and organisation.

Celebrate Ageing Better in Camden
Come and celebrate how far Ageing Better in Camden has come and meet the organisations who will be running projects for older people as part of the new Ageing Better in Camden programme. Find out more, and tell us your views.
Tea and coffee available from 3:45pm
Tuesday 2nd June 2015 from 4pm-6.30pm Near Euston Station
This is a free event, but please RSVP to Corinna.hyman@ageukcamden.org.uk or Julia.shelley@ageukcamden.org.uk or 020 7239 0400, to book your place.

Volunteers Week 2015 1 – 7 June
It’s national Volunteers Week next week. Find out what’s one or add your own event to the events map. You can find out what is happening in Camden at the Volunteer Centre Camden website. Get general information on volunteering NCVO. Don’t forget to keep your volunteering voluntary – sign up and find out more at KVV. If you are a green group on Project Dirt you can find volunteers with the new volunteers tool. Find out more about volunteering in Camden on the Camden council website.

Volunteers Week Events in Camden
Evening Reception: Celebrating Volunteers

As part of National Volunteers’ Week, One Housing Group’s volunteer team is organising an evening reception on Thursday 4th June, 6.30-9pm at Arlington House NW1, to celebrate the role volunteers play in their communities and wider society.
Come along with your volunteers and enjoy a few short speeches, a raffle, a few awards and the opportunity to network with organisations who value and support volunteers.
Canapés and drinks will be served. Places are limited, so book now.
To book your place, contact Poppy Ayele at One Housing Group on 020 7428 4120.
Volunteers’ Week 2015 Volunteering Fair With One Housing Group
Looking for volunteers? Come and meet people who want to volunteer at our June volunteering fair which we are co-hosting with One Housing Group
Thursday 4th June, 11am-2pm at Arlington Conference Centre, 220 Arlington Road, NW1 7HE
A few places are still available. Book your place via eventbrite.
Please note the times have changed and the fair is now 11am-2pm.

National News
Implications of the Queens Speech for the Sector

The Queens Speech sets out the governments agenda for the coming year. It contained a number of bills that may impact on charities and the wider sector. NCVO has a summary of the main issues.
What Does the New Government Mean for Mental Health Services in Camden?
Frances Hasler, Director of Healthwatch Camden sets out her thoughts for the future in her blog.

National Carers’ Week 2014
Monday 8th to Sunday 14th June is Carers’ Week in Camden with events all around the borough. For full details contact Camden Carers Centre; 020 7428 8950 or email: info@camdencs.org.uk or go to www.camdencs.org.uk/carers-week

Celebrating National Carers Week
Friday 12th June 2015 10am-1pm
10am —Registration, Tea & Coffee
10am-12pm—Henna painting
10.30am-12.30pm— Head & shoulder massage
11am-12pm Health Clinic With Ezra Burnette (Women & Health)
12pm-1pm Lunch & Evaluation
At Great Croft Resource Centre. For more information please contact:
Age UK Camden, Cromer Street, WC1H 8LF. Centre Manager, Abul Choudhury: abul.Choudhury@ageukcamden.org.uk Tel: 020 7278 5090

Camden Carers Service Presents: Face to Face Festival of Solo Theatre
Thursday 11th June
Camden carers and family members join us for this one-off live show in the Council Chambers, Camden Town Hall, Judd Street,WC1H 9JE. The performance will be taking place on Thursday 11th June. Please arrive at 4:30pm for a 5pm start. The play ends at 6pm followed by a questions and answers session for 30 minutes.
Light refreshments will be available. The event is free. For information and booking for this and other
Carers’ Week events in Camden, please ring Camden Carers Service on 020 7428 8950 or email info@camdencarers.org.uk

Ageing Better in Camden – Consultation with Older People in St Pancras and Somerstown
We want to hear the views of older people on a new project planned for the Somerstown and St Pancras area. The project aims to bring older people together to listen and promote the voices of older people and by doing so to tackle causes of isolation and loneliness.
Tea and coffee available from 1:45pm
10th June 2015 from 2 – 4:30 pm om St Pancras
This is a free event, but please RSVP to Corinna.hyman@ageukcamden.org.uk or Julia.shelley@ageukcamden.org.uk or 020 7239 0400, to book your place.

SYLVIA: The play about Sylvia Pankhurst, artist and suffragette
7pm – Friday 12 June 2015
Crossroads Women’s Centre, 25 Wolsey Mews, London NW5 2DX 7pm Friday 12 June 2015 Wheelchair
Crossroads Women’s Centre, 25 Wolsey Mews, Kentish Town, London NW5 2DX
£3.50 unwaged & low-waged £7 higher waged no one turned away for lack of funds
Booking: contact@crossroadswomen.net or 020 7482 2496
Sign language interpreter to be confirmed No admission after 7.15pm

Frontline Camden Drug and Alcohol User Involvement Group
Do you / have you used Drug or Alcohol services in Camden? – What’s Good? Bad? Missing?
Come along and tell us your experience. A chance to influence how your treatment is delivered in Camden
The Conference Hall, St Pancras Hospital, 4 St Pancras Way, London NW1 0PE
Open Forum 12.30 – 3 pm Thursday 4th June 2015
Everybody in Camden with a drug or alcohol history is welcome. But anyone too disruptive may be asked to leave.
This month’s focus: Prescribing (i.e. things like methadone scripts), and hearing from a manager in Camden’s prescribing service. Refreshments from 12.30 until 1pm
For any more information – please contact Dan or Rachel on 020 3355 7113 or 07770 014 109

Camden Patient & Public Engagement Group Open Meeting (Monday 8th June, 2pm – 4pm, St Pancras Hospital, Conference Hall)
Please come along if you want to know more about the Camden Story (the health needs of local people, the outcomes reached and impact one year on) and the introduction of Mental Health Peer Mentoring which is supported by Voiceability. The operational meeting is scheduled to start at 4:15pm and the recently appointed Head of Communications and Engagement, Francesca McNeil, will be coming to the meeting to introduce herself.
Presentation 1: The Camden Story (2015)
Presenter: Richard Cartwright, Insights Manager, Camden Clinical Commissioning Group
Presentation 2: Mental Health Peer Mentoring (Voiceability).
Presenter: Rachel Killick, Service user involvement advocate, Voiceability.
Please RSVP Edith Raie, CPPEG Administrator by email: Edith.Raie@camdenccg.nhs.uk or Tel: 0203 688 2044

Clean Break Information Day
Friday, 19 June 2015 19 June, 11am – 3pm
Clean Break is hosting an Information Day on Friday 19 June 2015 between 11am-3pm. We are a safe women-only theatre, education and new writing company based in Kentish Town, in the north-west of London. However on this occasion we welcome men who are working with women and are likely to make referrals to our service.
We offer free education and training in the arts specifically for women who have experience of the criminal justice system and/or are at risk of offending due to alcohol/substance misuse or mental heath needs. This is an invitation, for interested women, and you or your colleagues working with these women.
11-1.15pm: service providers only
1.15 – 3pm: prospective service users also welcome
Places are limited. To book your place: please email general@cleanbreak.org.uk for a booking form.
Clean Break, 2 Patshull Road, London, NW5 2LB

Healthwatch Camden
Latest Information DIgest is on the Healthwatch Camden website.
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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

Age Uk Camden, People’s Centre for Change, The Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, MEWSO, Bedford House, Hopscotch, 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

FUNDING NEWS

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

Skipton Building Society Grassroots Giving 2015 Now Open
Skipton Building Society launched its award-winning Grassroots Giving programme in 2013 to help celebrate its 160th anniversary. That year we gave away 160 pots of £500 to deserving community-based organisations across the UK. This year 162 £500 awards will be made. Note that this is aimed at small community groups and excludes registered charities. Skipton have also published some useful resources. Full details and FAQ here.

Crowdfunding?
Don’t forget that there is a dedicated page on Spacehive just for Camden projects. And set up costs are free to Camden groups. Find out more at Spacehive Camden.

Vote for Kentish Town City Farm in Jewson’s Building Better Communities competition – your vote will help them win funding.

The Origin Housing Community Grants Programme
The 2015/16 programme is now open, with the first deadline being Monday 29 June.
Everything you need to apply can be found online here: http://www.originhousing.org.uk/communitygrants.aspx
We welcome all applications for projects that will benefit our residents and customers, and fit into one or more of the following themes:
Building Stronger Communities
Gardening Food and Environmental
Celebrating Heritage
Origin anticipate spending all the budget in this first round. The deadline is 29 June.

FreeSport offers grants up to £1500
FreeSport – part of the Mayor of London’s sport legacy programme – enables organisations and community groups of all shapes and sizes to apply for grants of up to £1,500 to run free sports activities for Londoners.
The next round of funding opens on 15 April 2015.
FreeSport is about inspiring people of all ages and abilities to try a new sport or activity, but importantly, it’s also about inspiring organisations who may never have done anything sporty before, and to spark their interest to run regular sport sessions. In previous FreeSport rounds we have funded a huge variety of activities ranging from traditional sports like football or rugby through to circus skills and ‘chairobics’
Applications are straight forward and we have lots of information to guide applicants who may never have applied for a grant before.
For more information on the FreeSport grant, you can visit the website which is: www.London.gov.uk/freesport

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

VAC EVENTS

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

Mental health courses and workshops from VAC
To book your place, 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 based in Camden or which serve Camden residents. Places are limited on each course to a maximum of two people per organisation.
If you have any queries about our training, please contact us on our new email address: mentalhealthteam@vac.org.uk.

Mental Health First Aid Training Thursday 4th June and Thursday 11th June 2015
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a nationally approved two-day course, designed for anyone without specialist mental health training. The course promotes awareness of mental health issues, and trains non-mental health professionals to recognise those affected by mental health problems and to offer initial help and guidance towards professional support. This can lead to improved outcomes for those affected, their families, friends, colleagues and employers.
Participants will receive a copy of the MHFA manual and certificate on completion of the course.
To book your place please go to: https://vac.org.uk/event/mental-health-first-aid-mhfa-2-day-course/
If you have any questions please contact the Mental Health Team on: mentalhealthteam@vac.org.uk or call 020 7284 6550.

OTHER EVENTS

The Evelyn Oldfield Unit invites you to Conference for Research for Action and Influence Students and Refugee Week celebration
Thursday, 18th June 2015, 1.30-5.30pmat Resource for London, 356 Holloway Road
This event will see student presentations followed by cultural celebration of Refugee Week, including special guests, funders and politicians.
The researchers will present new thoughts and findings on issues faced by London’s migrants
The Evelyn Oldfield Unit is running the accredited Research for Action & Influence course, a 9 month programme for members of London’s refugee and migrant communities. This course will culminate in this conference whereby the groups present the findings of their research and actions as above.
To book a place please contact Alexandra Ceriu Tel: 0207 697 4105. Email: alexandra@evelynoldfield.co.uk

Personal Budgets and Direct Payments – Carers Meeting
Wednesday 3rd June 2015 10:30am – 1pm at Centre 404, 404 Camden Road, N7 0SJ
Do you find direct payments, personal budgets and financial assessments confusing and complicated?
Come along to our meeting to find out about:
– What a personal budget is and how it works
– What a direct payment is and how it works
– What choices are available
– How financial assessments are done (to be confirmed)
This meeting will be about direct payments and personal budgets for people with learning disabilities.
For more information contact Beth on: beths@centre404.org.uk tel: 020 7697 1336

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.

Black & Minority Ethnic Organisations Networking & skill-sharing event
Wednesday 10th June, 11am-1pm
We’d like to invite BME organisations in Camden to meet up for an informal event:
Kindly hosted by Zeena Nahi at the Somali Community Centre, 1-2 Lismore Circus, Gospel Oak, NW5 4QF
This will be a chance to get to know each other better and think about ways to work together in the future.
For more information, contact Shadin 020 7424 9990 shadin@volunteercentrecamden.org.uk

Camden Wellbeing Open Day
Tuesday 2nd June 12.30-5.30pm (lunch at 12.30pm)
Join us and learn what’s on offer for your wellbeing here in Camden
Here at The Hub, we work with an exciting and eclectic network of partners (like you) who we encourage to use our centre to give individuals access to rich and diverse opportunities both inside the centre and out in the community. For example, Geoff is eager to get fit, we help him to join a gym plus he takes part in yoga classes at The Hub, run by our partners.
There will be talks from Camden’s ‘approved provider’ partners, free taster sessions of The Hub’s holistic therapies and activities, stalls, and a hearty (and free!) lunch for all. Let’s create connections.
The Hub, 8 Fairhazel Gardens, NW6 3SG
Find us here: www.camdenhub.org.uk/contact RSVP to abigail.darton@hcct.org.uk

Community Evening View at the British Museum
Saturday 27th June 2015, 6.20pm – 9pm.
Camden community and voluntary sector group members are invited to an exclusive Community Evening View at the British Museum Both special exhibitions will be open that evening – Defining beauty: the body in ancient Greek art and the BP exhibition Indigenous Australia: enduring civilisation.
To book your free tickets* email hbahra@britishmuseum.org before Monday 8th June stating:
· Name of your group or organisation:
· Number of tickets required for each exhibition**
o Defining Beauty (maximum of 20 tickets)
o Indigenous Australia (maximum of 10 tickets)
· Preferred entry time for each exhibition between 6.20pm – 8.10pm:
· Postal address to send tickets to:
Tickets to this preview are limited and distributed on a first-come first-served basis. Group numbers may be limited due to demand.
Requests for tickets must be made by the group leader and only one request per organisation.
Please issue group members with a ticket for one exhibition only.

First Thursday London – June- Making an Impact
Thursday, June 4, 2015 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Making an Impact- and evidencing the difference your organisation makes.
Rose Maguire, a senior consultant from the New Economics Foundation on Impact Measurement.
Rosemary has extensive experience in providing clients, including local authorities, NHS organisations, national and local charities with bespoke outcome measurement frameworks and evaluations of their work.
The 2nd July sees us visiting Happy Computers to be hosted by the award winning Henry, who will be challenging us to become better employers, not least because that makes us better organisations
Sign up for First Thursday here. Or find out more on the First Thursday website.

Kentish Town Festival is back on Saturday 6th June 1pm-6.30pm
Join us on Saturday 6th June as Kentish Town is filled with colourful rhythms and sounds!
There will be live music, food & drink, sports tournament, bake-off, dance & crafts workshops, children’s area and much more. The festival’s Urban Jungle parade starts at 2pm. Free, open to all.
There will be a general volunteers’ meeting on Tuesday 2nd June between 5.30-7pm for anyone interested in helping out on the day. Email Isabelle@ktcc.org.uk for more information or visit www.ktcc.org.uk/events/kentish-town-festival-2015 for details of the event.

Action Learning Workshop for Older People’s Organisations
Older Londoners and Pension Reform
30th June 2015, 10:00-1:30pm
Salvation Army Community Church, 1 Princess Street, London SE1 6HH
Light Lunch will be served
Please confirm your attendance by registering here: https://olderlondonersandpensionreform.eventbrite.co.uk or emailing Janinealdridge@ageuklondon.org.uk or Telephone 020 7091 2594

Creating Connections 10
Monday 15th June, 6–8pm in the Front Quad Pavilion at University College London.
In celebration of our tenth event, Creating Connections 10 is taking Creativity and Collaboration as its twin themes. As with all previous Creating Connections, the aim of the event is to bring UCL’s academic staff and postgraduate researchers together with representatives of the community and voluntary sector (with a healthy sprinkling of arts, heritage and cultural organisations), to find areas of common interest and projects they can collaborate on. The evening is a mix of themed discussions in small groups with more informal networking.
Find out more and book your place by Monday 8th June

LGBT Inclusion Conference at Camden Working Men’s College
Tuesday, 16 June 2015 from 09:30 to 15:30
One day conference aimed at senior Equality and Diversity Managers within the Further Education sector to disseminate findings of WMC LGBT project, The Humane Selfie, Life Gets Better Together, and share good practice.
Further details about the ECU Funded project at WMC can be found on this link http://www.wmcollege.ac.uk/pages/equality.aspx
Lunch and refreshment provided. Book your free place at Eventbrite.

Taking a deep breath: Cleaning up London’s air
Tuesday 7th July 2015 16:30 – 21:00 (including drinks + canapes)
St Bride Foundation, Bridge Lane, London, EC4Y 8EQ
London continues to suffer the effects of poor air quality leading to around 4,300 early deaths per year. With ClientEarth’s recent win at the Supreme Court over the UK Government’s failure to meet legal limits for air pollution and the Mayor’s announcement of an Ultra Low Emission Zone, change is in the air. However more still needs to be done to protect our health and that of all Londoners.
The event will include short presentations by fantastic speakers followed by workshops and networking and drinks. We have designed the evening so that you get the greatest opportunity to contribute your ideas and make useful connections.
Please confirm your attendance here. Contact Sam Jelliman s.jelliman@lsx.org.uk 02072349400 for information

New Care Act e-learning training platform, MeLearning.
The courses available through the platform have been especially designed for the needs of Adult Social Care practitioners. They provide you with the opportunity to strengthen your knowledge of the Care Act, and count towards your CPD
You can take advantage of the wide variety of modules on separate aspects of the Care Act available through the platform, to ensure your knowledge is up to date. The courses can be accessed free of charge by all Council employees, as well as members of partner organisations.
To access the courses, visit
https://camden.melearning.university/course_centre
If you experience any problems, please do not hesitate to contact us at TDSOnline@camden.gov.uk
or by calling 020 7974 3701/ 020 7974 2821.
We also provide bespoke, on site Safeguarding adults awareness training sessions. If you have members of staff who require the Basic Awareness safeguarding adults course (Level II), our Safeguarding adults training officer, Jacqui Robertson, can come to your institution and deliver the session.
The Safeguarding adults, and MCA and DoLS training sessions are fully subsidized, and are offered free of charge to all members of staff who provide services for adults at risk in Camden.

Theatro Technis proudly presents latest production “OH, DEMOCRACY”
A musical adaptation of Aristophanes’ “THE KNIGHTS” by Keith Murphy, George Eugeniou and Marco Aponte.
Back in 424 BC, when ARISTOPHANES wrote “THE KNIGHTS” it poked fun at the political leaders in Athens, the like of leather merchant Kleon, who put his own personal gains above the city’s interest. Now almost 2500 years later it is as relevant as ever.
Opens: 26th May 7.30pm
The play runs until 6th June, Sunday Matinees 5pm, no shows on Mondays
Tickets: £10/concession £8
26 Crowndale Road London NW1 1TT
Tel: 020 7387 6617 fax: 020 73832545
Email: info@theatrotechnis.com website: www.theatrotechnis.com

Camden People’s Theatre present Stand Up and Down
A man tries to get out of a personal predicament by going into comedy. Things go well for a while – but soon he’s finding it harder to make people laugh. Might this be to do with something inside himself? At a drop-in centre for people with psychological problems, he starts to see himself and society in a different way…
The Stand Up and Down raises awareness of mental health as a social issue. One in four people will be affected by psychological problems at some point in their life. Des Marshall writer, Harry Meacher director sees theatre as a creative way of addressing these concerns.
Tue 9 Jun 2015 – Sun 21 Jun 2015, 7.30pm and 4pm on Sundays at Camden People’s Theatre, 58 – 60 Hampstead Road, NW1 2PY, Tickets: £12 / 10.
Box Office – 0207 419 4841 www.cptheatre.co.uk

Learn to Build a Website
Free introductory sessions at West Euston Partnership or St Luke’s Community Centre. Various dates in May, June. Contact Jed Keenan on 07950963069 or email jed.keenan@aliteracyprogramme.org. Further information and booking at www.eliteracyprogramme.org

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

Big Advice Day, June 16th, London – completely free 1:1 advice sessions with expert advisors
Big Advice Day is a day of free support for small charities as part of Small Charity Week 2015. The day consists of 1:1 hour long sessions with expert advisors; you choose the topics you’re interested in and we’ll match you to suitable advisors. We have advisors with expertise across a whole range of subjects
The day is completely free to attend includes refreshments. You can attend in person or access advice via phone or Skype. Those attending on the day will also benefit from a range of free workshops.
If you would like to attend Big Advice Day and you are a registered charity with a turnover of under £1.5m per year then sign up here by 18th May.

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

JOBS AND VOLUNTEERS

People’s Centre for Change seek Services and Volunteer Coordinator (Part time 16 hours)
Location: 10 minutes away from Kilburn tube station and from home
Salary: Pro rata of £22,292.00
People’s Centre for Change is committed to providing meaningful and life enhancing day opportunities for adults with severe learning disabilities, autism and/or complex needs, in an inclusive environment. We run pilot sessions once or two afternoons per week and are seeking to expand and recruit new members from the wider neighbourhood.
We are looking for a dynamic, enthusiastic and well organised person with the skills and vision to lead community building, coordinating activities and recruiting, training and managing a small team of volunteers. We need a warm, caring and energetic person with “can do” attitude and a strong commitment to an inclusive, flexible and creative service.
You will be confident and experienced in working a community setting and with people with learning disabilities and have an awareness the adult social care world. You will need excellent communication skills and a good standard of general education. Relevant professional qualifications are desirable but not essential.
If you are interested please email us so we can send you the Job Description and Person Specification and then send your CV and a personal statement to: peoplescentre4change@gmail.com
Closing date for applications: 22nd June 2015
Interviews will take place on 29th or 30th June 2015. This post is subject to a DBS check.

This summer The Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust will be holding elections for its Council of Governors
Trust would like to invite as many members of the public to stand as possible. There are eleven seats for public members available.
Anyone over 18, with an interest in what we do can apply. Our Council of Governors is a collection of elected people – patients, carers, members of the public, students, staff and people from partner organisations. Anyone can become a Governor, meaning a variety of informed views and opinions influence the work we do. Our Governors work alongside the Board of Directors and are responsible for helping to shape our work. They make sure we continue to work for the benefit of patients and students.
You can also find out more information on our website: https://tavistockandportman.uk/GovernorElections, where you will find a ‘register your interest’ form and information on the time commitment and what we are looking for. We are also planning on running some drop in sessions in June and July, so keep an eye out on our website for future updates around these.
For more information about becoming a Governor or details on how to get a nomination form please contact Gervase Campbell, our Trust Secretary on: TSecretary@tavi-port.nhs.uk.

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.
PAs can carry out a wide range of tasks, as agreed with you, to help with things such as washing, getting dressed, cooking, and supporting you to go out and about.
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 p hone: 020 7278 4437

MEWSO seeks Arabic and/or Kurdish speaking counsellor
MEWSO is a growing registered charity set up in 2010 to address the needs of women in Middle Eastern communities in the absence of priority placed on their needs within the community organisations mainly run by male and elder members of the communities.
MEWSo is currently looking for an Arabic and/or Kurdish speaking counsellor to provide this important service to the more and more clients who come to us for help every week.
As our clients are mainly refugee women from the Middle East who have suffered various traumas, often including domestic violence, it is very important for them to find a safe space to open up and someone to help them dealing with these traumas. For these reasons, the counsellor would need to be a female, and previous experience would be preferable.
We are looking for a sessional worker, days, times and amount of working hours will be discussed and arranged according to the needs and availability of both the counsellor and the clients.
The paying wage would be of £17ph. The position is open from now.
We would be very grateful if you could spread the word and advertise this position to someone you think could be interested.
If interested and you want more information, please contact MEWSo via email or on the phone and visit our website:
www.mewso.org email: office@mewso.org Tel: 07958145666

Bedford House seeks Volunteers
Nahida Chowdhury, the Senior Community Organiser based at Bedford House, Holborn, is looking for local volunteers to work alongside her and learn Community Organising skills. If you want more information or are interested in this opportunity please contact nahida.chowdhury@corganisers.org.uk

Hopscotch seeks Care Supervisor (Maternity Cover)
35 hrs per week (job share may be considered for the right candidates)
12 months, until July 2016 25,034 incl. ILW
Closing date: 11th June 2015
A confident and conscientious Bengali-speaking worker is required to provide supervision support to a challenging and rewarding service within Hopscotch. The Home Care service offers health and personal care to older people, those who are housebound and to adults with disabilities, to help support their independence and improve their quality of life.
We provide a specialist care service, with a particular focus on the South Asian community. Most of our carers are bilingual. This means they speak English and a range of languages including Bengali, Sylheti, Hindi, Urdu, Nepali, Arabic and Somali.
The Care Supervisor will be responsible for the efficient running of the service and making sure that all care plans are delivered accurately at all times. They will be responsible for quality checks, risk assessments and the training and supervision of a team of care workers. The majority of their time will be spent in the field. They will also be required to share responsibility with Care Coordinators for an emergency on-call service.
For an informal discussion about the post, jd and application please contact Melissa McClelland, Homecare Registered Manager at info@hopscotchawc.org.uk

Age UK Camden seeks Administrative Assistant
12 Month Contract (subject to review and extension)
Scale 4 £21,120- £23,145 plus 6% contributory pension.
This key position will operate the phone switchboard, responding to information enquiries (via the telephone, email and face to face). The role also involves completing various administrative tasks working with all our departments and the Senior Management Team and ensuring our back of house facilities are fully operational by ordering stock, managing room bookings and general house-keeping on a daily basis.
Essentials include: a general knowledge of issues and services relating to older people and their needs; experience of working on a busy reception; ability to multi-task dealing with competing priorities in a calm and efficient manner; administrative skills; IT literacy; and excellent communication skills.
For further details and an application form visit our website www.ageukcamden.org.uk or email jobs@ageukcamden.org.uk or telephone 020 7239 0400. No CVs, no agencies please.
Closing date: 9:00am, Monday 1st June 2015
Interviews: Tuesday 9th June 2015

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/

OFFERS, RESOURCES and ANNOUNCEMENTS

Camden Consultations
Various consultations are out at the moment including a consultation on Camden Future Libraries and Camden VCS strategy and changes to early education and childcare and children’s centre services. You can find all Camden consultation on the Wearecamden consultation hub.

Camden Long Term Conditions Reference Group
Camden CCG are looking for members of the public to be involved in a reference group for planning for services for people with Long Term Conditions.
Involvement could be in the form of:
~ Online surveys
~ Telephone surveys
~ Focus groups for discussing particular issues or conditions
~ Being part of the project team for a particular Long Term Condition
~ Be interviewed to tell your story in more detail (case study).
We have a rewards and recognition policy to compensate you for your time.
If you would like to be part of this group, please email LTCinfo@camdenccg.nhs.uk

Nepal Appeal
On Saturday 25 April a massive 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck Nepal. It severely shook the lives of at least 5.3m people and left many homeless. Nepal’s major cities, including the capital Kathmandu, have been badly damaged and rural areas near the epicentre have been completely cut off by avalanches. Find out more and donate at the Disasters Emergency Committee website or at Pasa Puchah guthi UK or for blankets, tents and medicines you can drop your donation off at the Great Nepalese, Eversholt Street, NW1 (next to Euston station) from 11.00-2.30 Monday to Saturday.

Accessible Leisure Centre Guide
A guide to accessible leisure centre facilities has been produced by Camden council.
You can also download a copy from the website: www.camden.gov.uk/disabilitysport

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.

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To get discounts on training, room hire and many more benefits click here to join Voluntary Action Camden

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If you have an item for the e-bulletin, please email it to Kevin Nunan, knunan@vac.org.uk with a note of which section you would like it to appear under.

Voluntary Action Camden e-Bulletin 22nd May 2015

Highlights: Council Consultation with Voluntary and Community Sector; Celebrate Ageing Better in Camden; Camden Disability Action (CDA) Launch Event; Ready to Supply the City; Camden Consultations; Kentish Fleet Festival; Green News in Camden; Carers’ Week 2014; Black & Minority Ethnic Organisations Networking & skill-sharing event; Camden Wellbeing Open Day; Community Evening View at the British Museum; First Thursday London; Camden Long Term Conditions Reference Group; Kentish Town Festival; Celebrating National Carers Week; Personal Budgets and Direct Payments – Carers Meeting; Taking a deep breath: Cleaning up London’s air; Accessible Leisure Centre Guide; plus news, funding, events, jobs, volunteering and more.

NEWS

Council Consultation with Voluntary and Community Sector
Camden Council launched an eight week engagement on Tuesday 19th May at Senate House. The event was attended by over 60 representatives from Camden’s sector. The Council is seeking VCS views on alternative approaches to developing a new grants programme for the sector. Four options are proposed for comment which range from improving the current mixed-funding model to a more radical collective impact approach, co-ordinating a partnership around a geographic area or a theme. The sector’s views will be used to develop a preferred approach that is likely to be a mix of the options. The engagement document and survey are available here www.camden.gov.uk/vcsengagement
The council is also organising with VAC a series of evening and lunch-time drop-in sessions across the borough the week of the 8th June.
Five informal ‘drop in’ sessions have been arranged to enable staff and trustees of VCS organisations to explore the options in the engagement paper ‘Investing in a Sustainable Strategic Relationship’ further. These run for a week from June 8th at various locations across Camden. Staff from both Camden Council and Voluntary Action Camden will be available, no ned to book please just turn up.
· West Euston Partnership Monday 8th in the evening so 5.30 to 7.30pm
· VAC: Tuesday 9th Lunchtime 12-2pm
· VAC Thursday 11th evening 5.30-7.30pm
· Holborn Library Training Room Wednesday 10th June lunchtime 12-2pm
· Abbey Community Centre Friday 12th lunch time 12-2pm

Celebrate Ageing Better in Camden
Come and celebrate how far Ageing Better in Camden has come and meet the organisations who will be running projects for older people as part of the new Ageing Better in Camden programme. Find out more, and tell us your views.
Tea and coffee available from 3:45pm
Tuesday 2nd June 2015 from 4pm-6.30pm Near Euston Station
This is a free event, but please RSVP to Corinna.hyman@ageukcamden.org.uk or Julia.shelley@ageukcamden.org.uk or 020 7239 0400, to book your place.

Camden Disability Action (CDA) Launch Event Wednesday, 27 May 2015, 5:30pm to 7:30pm
The Camden Centre, Camden Town Hall, Judd Street, London WC1H 9JE
An event to tell you about CDA the new user led organisation to represent deaf and disabled people in Camden. It will not be a discussion about the closure of DISC or the past but a focus on the way forward with the following Agenda.
• Why is CDA needed and what will its role be?
• Progress made so far to charitable status and what becoming a member will mean to you
• All your questions answered
• Becoming a member
Voluntary Action Camden is helping to organise this event on behalf of CDA.
To book a place please contact Ricky or Monica at VAC.
E-mail: acharles@vac.org.uk Fax: 020 7284 6551 Telephone: 020 7284 6553. Typetalk: 18001-020 7284 6555
This meeting will be fully accessible, but please let us know your access requirements when you book.

Ready to Supply the City
Do you want to supply the City?
Monday 1st June 2015 09:15am – 11.00am at Camden Council, 5 Pancras Square, N1C 4A
East London Business Place (ELBP) cordially invites you to the “Ready to Supply the City” launch in partnership with Camden Council.
The project will facilitate introductions between local suppliers and City businesses and their 1st and 2nd tier supply chains. If you require help, there will be one to one business support, workshops and seminars to enable appropriate micro, small and medium enterprises to get ready to supply the City.
Refreshments will be provided at the event, and this is also a great opportunity to network, so don’t forget your business cards
Places are limited and offered on a first come, first served basis only. Please RSVP by return to: mohammed.alom@elbp.co.uk

Camden Consultations
Various consultations are out at the moment including a consultation on Camden Future Libraries and Camden VCS strategy and changes to early education and childcare and children’s centre services. You can find all Camden consultation on the Wearecamden consultation hub.

Kentish Fleet Festival Sat 23rd & Sun 24th May
This weekend Kentish Town is host to the Kentish Fleet Festival with a vast range of events from crochet & knitting classes to jazz dance in the afternoon and music in the evening. There should be something for everyone. All listed on their website:
Arts, Music and Family events celebrating the undercurrent of creativity in Kentish Town
http://kentishfleetfestival.co.uk/

Green News in Camden
Project Dirt now has a monthly newsletter of all things green in Camden. You can view the newsletter online. To get your own copy, sign up for Project Dirt and subscribe.

Carers’ Week 2014
Monday 8th to Sunday 14th June is Carers’ Week in Camden with events all around the borough. For full details contact Camden Carers Centre; 020 7428 8950 or email: info@camdencs.org.uk or go to www.camdencs.org.uk/carers-week

Black & Minority Ethnic Organisations Networking & skill-sharing event
Wednesday 10th June, 11am-1pm
We’d like to invite BME organisations in Camden to meet up for an informal event:
Kindly hosted by Zeena Nahi at the Somali Community Centre, 1-2 Lismore Circus, Gospel Oak, NW5 4QF
This will be a chance to get to know each other better and think about ways to work together in the future.
For more information, contact Shadin 020 7424 9990 shadin@volunteercentrecamden.org.uk

Camden Wellbeing Open Day
Tuesday 2nd June 12.30-5.30pm (lunch at 12.30pm)
Join us and learn what’s on offer for your wellbeing here in Camden
Here at The Hub, we work with an exciting and eclectic network of partners (like you) who we encourage to use our centre to give individuals access to rich and diverse opportunities both inside the centre and out in the community. For example, Geoff is eager to get fit, we help him to join a gym plus he takes part in yoga classes at The Hub, run by our partners.
Join us on Tuesday 2 June to find out more about the range of opportunities available across the borough – there will be talks from Camden’s ‘approved provider’ partners, free taster sessions of The Hub’s holistic therapies and activities, stalls, and a hearty (and free!) lunch for all. Let’s create connections.
The Hub, 8 Fairhazel Gardens, NW6 3SG
Find us here: www.camdenhub.org.uk/contact
RSVP to abigail.darton@hcct.org.uk

Community Evening View at the British Museum
Saturday 27th June 2015, 6.20pm – 9pm.
Camden community and voluntary sector group members are invited to an exclusive Community Evening View at the British Museum Both special exhibitions will be open that evening – Defining beauty: the body in ancient Greek art and the BP exhibition Indigenous Australia: enduring civilisation.
To book your free tickets* email hbahra@britishmuseum.org before Monday 8th June stating:
· Name of your group or organisation:
· Number of tickets required for each exhibition**
o Defining Beauty (maximum of 20 tickets)
o Indigenous Australia (maximum of 10 tickets)
· Preferred entry time for each exhibition between 6.20pm – 8.10pm:
· Postal address to send tickets to:
Tickets to this preview are limited and distributed on a first-come first-served basis. Group numbers may be limited due to demand.
Requests for tickets must be made by the group leader and only one request per organisation.
It may be difficult to view both exhibitions on the same evening so please issue group members with a ticket for one exhibition only.

Ancient World! Family Discovery Day at the British Museum Saturday 20th June 2015 12.00 – 16.00.
Families can join us for a huge day of free and fabulous creative and “historical” activities. Make, see, touch, sign, learn, watch and laugh. Actors from Deafinitely Theatre, skeletons from the Grant Museum, artists from the October Gallery and many more will be on hand to take families on a historic voyage of exploration.
This event is fully accessible for families with deaf children and parents.

First Thursday London – June- Making an Impact
Thursday, June 4, 2015 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Making an Impact- and evidencing the difference your organisation makes.
We’ve got Rose Maguire, a senior consultant from the New Economics Foundation, urging us to get our act together about Impact Measurement.
Rosemary has extensive experience in providing clients, including local authorities, NHS organisations, national and local charities with bespoke outcome measurement frameworks and evaluations of their work. Rosemary is a skilled researcher, combining the academic rigor of quantitative analysis with strong qualitative research skills.
The 2nd July sees us visiting Happy Computers to be hosted by the award winning Henry, who will be challenging us to become better employers, not least because that makes us better organisations
Sign up for First Thursday here. Or find out more on the First Thursday website.

Camden Long Term Conditions Reference Group
Camden CCG are looking for members of the public to be involved in a reference group for planning for services for people with Long Term Conditions.
Involvement could be in the form of:
~ Online surveys
~ Telephone surveys
~ Focus groups for discussing particular issues or conditions
~ Being part of the project team for a particular Long Term Condition
~ Be interviewed to tell your story in more detail (case study).
We have a rewards and recognition policy to compensate you for your time.
If you would like to be part of this group, please email LTCinfo@camdenccg.nhs.uk

Kentish Town Festival is back on Saturday 6th June 1pm-6.30pm
Join us on Saturday 6th June as Kentish Town is filled with colourful rhythms and sounds!
There will be live music, food & drink, sports tournament, bake-off, dance & crafts workshops, children’s area and much more. The festival’s Urban Jungle parade starts at 2pm. Free, open to all.
There will be a general volunteers’ meeting on Tuesday 2nd June between 5.30-7pm for anyone interested in helping out on the day. Email Isabelle@ktcc.org.uk for more information or visit www.ktcc.org.uk/events/kentish-town-festival-2015 for details of the event.

Celebrating National Carers Week
Friday 12th June 2015 10am-1pm
10am —Registration, Tea & Coffee
10am-12pm—Henna painting
10.30am-12.30pm— Head & shoulder massage
11am-12pm Health Clinic With Ezra Burnette (Women & Health)
12pm-1pm Lunch & Evaluation
At Great Croft Resource Centre. For more information please contact:
Age UK Camden, Cromer Street, WC1H 8LF. Centre Manager, Abul Choudhury: abul.Choudhury@ageukcamden.org.uk Tel: 020 7278 5090

Personal Budgets and Direct Payments – Carers Meeting
Wednesday 3rd June 2015 10:30am – 1pm at Centre 404, 404 Camden Road, N7 0SJ
Do you find direct payments, personal budgets and financial assessments confusing and complicated?
Come along to our meeting to find out about:
– What a personal budget is and how it works
– What a direct payment is and how it works
– What choices are available
– How financial assessments are done (to be confirmed)
This meeting will be about direct payments and personal budgets for people with learning disabilities.
For more information contact Beth on: beths@centre404.org.uk tel: 020 7697 1336

Taking a deep breath: Cleaning up London’s air
Tuesday 7th July 2015 16:30 – 21:00 (including drinks + canapes)
St Bride Foundation, Bridge Lane, London, EC4Y 8EQ
London continues to suffer the effects of poor air quality leading to around 4,300 early deaths per year. With ClientEarth’s recent win at the Supreme Court over the UK Government’s failure to meet legal limits for air pollution and the Mayor’s announcement of an Ultra Low Emission Zone, change is in the air. However more still needs to be done to protect our health and that of all Londoners.
The event will include short presentations by fantastic speakers followed by workshops and networking and drinks. We have designed the evening so that you get the greatest opportunity to contribute your ideas and make useful connections.
Please confirm your attendance here. Contact Sam Jelliman s.jelliman@lsx.org.uk 02072349400 for information

Accessible Leisure Centre Guide
A guide to accessible leisure centre facilities has been produced by Camden council.
You can also download a copy from the website: www.camden.gov.uk/disabilitysport

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

Age Uk Camden, Hopscotch Asian Women’s Centre, Mary Ward Legal Centre, The Working Men’s College, IKWRO, One Housing, VAC, CRI, 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

FUNDING NEWS

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

Skipton Building Society Grassroots Giving 2015 Now Open
Skipton Building Society launched its award-winning Grassroots Giving programme in 2013 to help celebrate its 160th anniversary. That year we gave away 160 pots of £500 to deserving community-based organisations across the UK. This year 162 £500 awards will be made. Note that this is aimed at small community groups and excludes registered charities. Skipton have also published some useful resources. Full details and FAQ here.

Crowdfunding?
Don’t forget that there is a dedicated page on Spacehive just for Camden projects. And set up costs are free to Camden groups. Find out more at Spacehive Camden.

Vote for Kentish Town City Farm in Jewson’s Building Better Communities competition – your vote will help them win funding.

The Origin Housing Community Grants Programme
The 2015/16 programme is now open, with the first deadline being Monday 29 June.
Everything you need to apply can be found online here: http://www.originhousing.org.uk/communitygrants.aspx
We welcome all applications for projects that will benefit our residents and customers, and fit into one or more of the following themes:
Building Stronger Communities
Gardening Food and Environmental
Celebrating Heritage
Origin anticipate spending all the budget in this first round. The deadline is 29 June.

FreeSport offers grants up to £1500
FreeSport – part of the Mayor of London’s sport legacy programme – enables organisations and community groups of all shapes and sizes to apply for grants of up to £1,500 to run free sports activities for Londoners.
The next round of funding opens on 15 April 2015.
FreeSport is about inspiring people of all ages and abilities to try a new sport or activity, but importantly, it’s also about inspiring organisations who may never have done anything sporty before, and to spark their interest to run regular sport sessions. In previous FreeSport rounds we have funded a huge variety of activities ranging from traditional sports like football or rugby through to circus skills and ‘chairobics’
Applications are straight forward and we have lots of information to guide applicants who may never have applied for a grant before.
For more information on the FreeSport grant, you can visit the website which is: www.London.gov.uk/freesport

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

VAC EVENTS

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

Mental health courses and workshops from VAC
To book your place, 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 based in Camden or which serve Camden residents. Places are limited on each course to a maximum of two people per organisation.
If you have any queries about our training, please contact us on our new email address: mentalhealthteam@vac.org.uk.

Mental Health First Aid Training Thursday 4th June and Thursday 11th June 2015
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a nationally approved two-day course, designed for anyone without specialist mental health training. The course promotes awareness of mental health issues, and trains non-mental health professionals to recognise those affected by mental health problems and to offer initial help and guidance towards professional support. This can lead to improved outcomes for those affected, their families, friends, colleagues and employers.
Participants will receive a copy of the MHFA manual and certificate on completion of the course.
To book your place please go to: https://vac.org.uk/event/mental-health-first-aid-mhfa-2-day-course/
If you have any questions please contact the Mental Health Team on: mentalhealthteam@vac.org.uk or call 020 7284 6550.

OTHER EVENTS

Fundraising Masterclass
29th May 2015, 2:30 pm – 4:30 pm at London Voluntary Service Council
Are you worried about your fundraising? Would you like to know more about the different types of fundraising and which ones might be best for you?
Come to our Fundraising Masterclass by Peter Rosenvinge (Worshipful Company of Marketors).
This event is for London based voluntary & Community sector organisations who need help with their fundraising.
The event aims to:
~ Give an overview of the different types of fundraising
~ Suggest which types of fundraising are best suited to different causes
~ Give an opportunity for participants to ask practical questions about their own situation
~ Participants will be able to ask the speaker for one free follow up consultation/advisory meeting about their charity
For more information and booking go to www.lvsc.org.uk

Age UK London, Advice UK and London Council course: Strategic Planning
Free training course targeted at small older people’s organisations, pensioners’ fora and action groups
Reply/booking to zghods@ageuklondon.org.uk or 0207 820 6781
This workshop will give forums/groups more confidence in their strategic planning
to help strengthen fundraising opportunities
Thursday 28th May 2015; 10.30am – 2.00 pm (Lunch at 1.15pm)
At Age UK London, 21 St Georges Road, London SE1 6ES Tube Station: Elephant and Castle
This workshop will help you to build capacity in governance and strategic planning; explore and set up new
structures to strengthen your organisation which will play a key role in your fundraising plans.

Action Learning Workshop for Older People’s Organisations
Older Londoners and Pension Reform
30th June 2015, 10:00-1:30pm
Salvation Army Community Church, 1 Princess Street, London SE1 6HH
Light Lunch will be served
Please confirm your attendance by registering here: https://olderlondonersandpensionreform.eventbrite.co.uk or emailing Janinealdridge@ageuklondon.org.uk or Telephone 020 7091 2594

Creating Connections 10
Monday 15th June, 6–8pm in the Front Quad Pavilion at University College London.
In celebration of our tenth event, Creating Connections 10 is taking Creativity and Collaboration as its twin themes. As with all previous Creating Connections, the aim of the event is to bring UCL’s academic staff and postgraduate researchers together with representatives of the community and voluntary sector (with a healthy sprinkling of arts, heritage and cultural organisations), to find areas of common interest and projects they can collaborate on. The evening is a mix of themed discussions in small groups with more informal networking.
Find out more and book your place by Monday 8th June

Directory of Social Change Charity Fair
30th June and 1st July, Holloway Road
Whatever your role in the sector, there is training for you here: Charityfair has 64 workshops, from only £35, covering a huge variety of topics including fundraising, management & leadership, marketing, governance, personal development, legal & finance, wellbeing, campaigning & lobbying and organisational support.
More information and booking at www.charityfair.org.uk

Citywise Employability Training
Following the success of the 1st Deloitte Employability training day another team have asked to work with Citywise volunteers to provide training in employability skills for unemployed volunteers aged 50+.
This will be held on Friday 29th May 10.45am – 4pm and will provide one to one support to help improve employability skills.
We are planning two sessions to run concurrently: Preparing for Interview and CV clinic
In order for the day to be successful and for the volunteers to be able to structure their support to your individual needs we are asking volunteers to provide their CV in advance and some information about what type of paid employment they are looking for.
For more information or to book a place contact: Sue King: sue.king@volunteeringmatters.org.uk; Citywise@volunteeringmatters.org.uk; 020 3780 5910

LGBT Inclusion Conference at Camden Working Men’s College
Tuesday, 16 June 2015 from 09:30 to 15:30
One day conference aimed at senior Equality and Diversity Managers within the Further Education sector to disseminate findings of WMC LGBT project, The Humane Selfie, Life Gets Better Together, and share good practice.
Further details about the ECU Funded project at WMC can be found on this link http://www.wmcollege.ac.uk/pages/equality.aspx
Lunch and refreshment provided. Book your free place at Eventbrite.

Big Lottery “Building Better Opportunities” Fund
This is a new fund for employability opening on 2 June 2015. It will be a two stage application process with very tight deadlines. (There will probably be a second round after that with a deadline in November.) This fund comes from the EU but it is not match funded – that is you receive the whole amount needed for the project.
It is not known how much organisations will be expected to apply for – but it will almost certainly be £500,000 or more and with a partnership including at least two other boroughs from the nine central London boroughs. It will be expected that partnerships will include the public sector and the VCS and could include businesses as well.
There will be a meeting for Camden VCS groups that would be interested in joining a partnership or partnerships to apply for this funding. The Council may well not have the resources to be the lead organisation in a partnership but staff are willing to facilitate the process. EU funded projects require a lot of work and very detailed reporting and this funding is probably best suited to organisations that already support residents into employment or significantly increase their chances of getting work.
Thursday 28 May 2015 at 3.15 for a prompt start at 3.30. The meeting will end at 5pm.
Committee Room 4 in the Old Town Hall, Judd Street.
For more information or to book a place contact frances.connelly@camden.gov.uk or call 020 7974 6457.

The Training and Development Service at the London Borough of Camden announce the launch of the new Care Act e-learning training platform, MeLearning.
The courses available through the platform have been especially designed for the needs of Adult Social Care practitioners. They provide you with the opportunity to strengthen your knowledge of the Care Act, and count towards your CPD
You can take advantage of the wide variety of modules on separate aspects of the Care Act available through the platform, to ensure your knowledge is up to date. The courses can be accessed free of charge by all Council employees, as well as members of partner organisations.
To access the courses, visit
https://camden.melearning.university/course_centre
If you experience any problems, please do not hesitate to contact us at TDSOnline@camden.gov.uk
or by calling 020 7974 3701/ 020 7974 2821.
We also provide bespoke, on site Safeguarding adults awareness training sessions. If you have members of staff who require the Basic Awareness safeguarding adults course (Level II), our Safeguarding adults training officer, Jacqui Robertson, can come to your institution and deliver the session.
The Safeguarding adults, and MCA and DoLS training sessions are fully subsidized, and are offered free of charge to all members of staff who provide services for adults at risk in Camden.

Train to Campaign offers low-cost, high quality campaign training workshops in central London to help you make a real impact.
Campaigning Essentials is a half day introduction to the core principles of effective campaigning. Whether you are new to campaigning, or have never had formal training in the basic building blocks of a good campaign, this workshop is for you.
Campaigning Essentials
Wed 3rd June 2015 | 1.15 – 5pm
Other upcoming workshops:
Perfect your campaign elevator pitch
Tue 23rd June 2015 | 1.15 – 5pm
How to influence and lobby Parliament
Thu 16th July 2015 | 1.15 – 5pm
For information about other upcoming campaign training workshops visit www.traintocampaign.london

St Pancras Rehabilitation Unit Open Day & Camden Community Services Disability Awareness Event
Tuesday 26th May 2015 between 1:30pm and 4:30pm, St Pancras Hospital South Wing
St Pancras Rehabilitation Unit acts as a pivotal part of the transition and support for patients in their recovery journey back home from UCLH, the Royal Free, the Whittington and other acute hospitals. We are keen that the unit is seen as a local resource which our whole community is proud and as such I am delighted to invite you to our joint event on Tuesday the 26th May 2015.
This is an opportunity for you, colleagues and members of the local community to learn more about the first class rehabilitation our clinical staff provide at St Pancras Rehabilitation Unit. If you are free to attend please reply to Kathryn Ford, lead for Equalities and Diversities in Camden email kathrynford@nhs.net or telephone 020 3317 3776 by 7th May 2015 so she can confirm catering arrangements.

Theatro Technis proudly presents latest production “OH, DEMOCRACY”
A musical adaptation of Aristophanes’ “THE KNIGHTS” by Keith Murphy, George Eugeniou and Marco Aponte.
Back in 424 BC, when ARISTOPHANES wrote “THE KNIGHTS” it poked fun at the political leaders in Athens, the like of leather merchant Kleon, who put his own personal gains above the city’s interest. Now almost 2500 years later it is as relevant as ever.
Opens: 26th May 7.30pm
The play runs until 6th June, Sunday Matinees 5pm, no shows on Mondays
Tickets: £10/concession £8
26 Crowndale Road London NW1 1TT
Tel: 020 7387 6617 fax: 020 73832545
Email: info@theatrotechnis.com website: www.theatrotechnis.com

Camden People’s Theatre present Stand Up and Down
A man tries to get out of a personal predicament by going into comedy. Things go well for a while – but soon he’s finding it harder to make people laugh. Might this be to do with something inside himself? At a drop-in centre for people with psychological problems, he starts to see himself and society in a different way…
The Stand Up and Down raises awareness of mental health as a social issue. One in four people will be affected by psychological problems at some point in their life. Des Marshall writer, Harry Meacher director sees theatre as a creative way of addressing these concerns.
Tue 9 Jun 2015 – Sun 21 Jun 2015, 7.30pm and 4pm on Sundays at Camden People’s Theatre, 58 – 60 Hampstead Road, NW1 2PY, Tickets: £12 / 10.
Box Office – 0207 419 4841 www.cptheatre.co.uk

Learn to Build a Website
Free introductory sessions at West Euston Partnership or St Luke’s Community Centre. Various dates in May, June. Contact Jed Keenan on 07950963069 or email jed.keenan@aliteracyprogramme.org. Further information and booking at www.eliteracyprogramme.org

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

Big Advice Day, June 16th, London – completely free 1:1 advice sessions with expert advisors
Big Advice Day is a day of free support for small charities as part of Small Charity Week 2015. The day consists of 1:1 hour long sessions with expert advisors; you choose the topics you’re interested in and we’ll match you to suitable advisors. We have advisors with expertise across a whole range of subjects
The day is completely free to attend includes refreshments. You can attend in person or access advice via phone or Skype. Those attending on the day will also benefit from a range of free workshops.
If you would like to attend Big Advice Day and you are a registered charity with a turnover of under £1.5m per year then sign up here by 18th May.

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

JOBS AND VOLUNTEERS

Certitude seeks Travel Buddy Camden
Hourly rate: £8.61 Working hours: flexible
At Certitude, we believe everyone has the right to a good life including people with learning disabilities or mental health needs. As a leading London provider of personalised support, we work alongside people, their families, friends and carers to identify what a good life means to them and then help them achieve it.
We are looking for enthusiastic individuals, to act as a Travel Buddy to provide support to other people with lived experience, by assisting them in using public transport, attending medical appointments, or attending a social activity that can help in their recovery. You will also work closely with Community Development Work Team in Camden, and have the opportunity for personal development
For more information and the application pack, please click here
Please note that a DBS check will be required for this role
Closing date: 30 May 2015 Interview date: week commencing 1 June 2015
Candidates should be available to start immediately

MEWSO seeks Arabic and/or Kurdish speaking counsellor
MEWSO is a growing registered charity set up in 2010 to address the needs of women in Middle Eastern communities in the absence of priority placed on their needs within the community organisations mainly run by male and elder members of the communities.
MEWSo is currently looking for an Arabic and/or Kurdish speaking counsellor to provide this important service to the more and more clients who come to us for help every week.
As our clients are mainly refugee women from the Middle East who have suffered various traumas, often including domestic violence, it is very important for them to find a safe space to open up and someone to help them dealing with these traumas. For these reasons, the counsellor would need to be a female, and previous experience would be preferable.
We are looking for a sessional worker, days, times and amount of working hours will be discussed and arranged according to the needs and availability of both the counsellor and the clients.
The paying wage would be of £17ph. The position is open from now.
We would be very grateful if you could spread the word and advertise this position to someone you think could be interested.
If interested and you want more information, please contact MEWSo via email or on the phone and visit our website:
www.mewso.org email: office@mewso.org Tel: 07958145666

Bedford House seeks Volunteers
Nahida Chowdhury, the Senior Community Organiser based at Bedford House, Holborn, is looking for local volunteers to work alongside her and learn Community Organising skills. If you want more information or are interested in this opportunity please contact nahida.chowdhury@corganisers.org.uk

Hopscotch seeks Care Supervisor (Maternity Cover)
35 hrs per week (job share may be considered for the right candidates)
12 months, until July 2016 25,034 incl. ILW
Closing date: 11th June 2015
A confident and conscientious Bengali-speaking worker is required to provide supervision support to a challenging and rewarding service within Hopscotch. The Home Care service offers health and personal care to older people, those who are housebound and to adults with disabilities, to help support their independence and improve their quality of life.
We provide a specialist care service, with a particular focus on the South Asian community. Most of our carers are bilingual. This means they speak English and a range of languages including Bengali, Sylheti, Hindi, Urdu, Nepali, Arabic and Somali.
The Care Supervisor will be responsible for the efficient running of the service and making sure that all care plans are delivered accurately at all times. They will be responsible for quality checks, risk assessments and the training and supervision of a team of care workers. The majority of their time will be spent in the field. They will also be required to share responsibility with Care Coordinators for an emergency on-call service.
For an informal discussion about the post, jd and application please contact Melissa McClelland, Homecare Registered Manager at info@hopscotchawc.org.uk

Age UK Camden seeks Programme Manager, (Job-Share)
Local Government Scale PO3 (c. £19.5-21k pa for 19 hour week)
Camden has been selected as one of 14 areas in England to deliver an innovative 6 year programme of support for isolated older people. Ageing Better in Camden is a local partnership of statutory, voluntary and private agencies and older people led by Age UK Camden. We require a dynamic job-share Programme Manager to: monitor recently appointed delivery partners; manage future tendering processes, support and develop the strategic partnership; manage part-time staff arranging support, training and events to delivery partners, older people and volunteers; manage ABC’s relationship with the Big Lottery and its evaluation and support agents.
Essential requirements: experience of working with older people; experience of engagement preferably co-production; knowledge of issues affecting older people including isolation; excellent communication and interpersonal skills; strong programme management skills including monitoring and evaluation and funder reporting; ability to deliver successful multi-agency partnership work; highly numerate and literate; ability to innovate, manage change and be solutions focussed.
AUC offers a contributory pension, and a season ticket or bicycle loan facility. The post is based at Tavis House, Tavistock Square with easy access via Euston and Kings Cross main lines or Russell Square tube.
For more details, all documents can be downloaded from our website www.ageukcamden.org.uk or email jobs@ageukcamden.org.uk.
Closing date – 9:00am Monday, 1st June 2015; Interviews -18th June 2015. No agencies, no CVs.

Age UK Camden seeks Administrative Assistant
12 Month Contract (subject to review and extension)
Scale 4 £21,120- £23,145 plus 6% contributory pension.
This key position will operate the phone switchboard, responding to information enquiries (via the telephone, email and face to face). The role also involves completing various administrative tasks working with all our departments and the Senior Management Team and ensuring our back of house facilities are fully operational by ordering stock, managing room bookings and general house-keeping on a daily basis.
Essentials include: a general knowledge of issues and services relating to older people and their needs; experience of working on a busy reception; ability to multi-task dealing with competing priorities in a calm and efficient manner; administrative skills; IT literacy; and excellent communication skills.
For further details and an application form visit our website www.ageukcamden.org.uk or email jobs@ageukcamden.org.uk or telephone 020 7239 0400. No CVs, no agencies please.
Closing date: 9:00am, Monday 1st June 2015
Interviews: Tuesday 9th June 2015

Kentish Town Community Centre is looking for an inspiring Chair of Trustees
Are you looking for a new challenge? Have you got an interest in local issues?
Visit www.ktcc.org.uk/about/current-vacancies for further details on all KTCC opportunities and to apply.

The Soup Kitchen seeks Part-Time Welcomer/Security Person
The Soup Kitchen at the American International Church in the West End requires a Welcomer who also monitors the behaviour of our service users. A part-time post on up to 5 mornings a week. Salary depends on experience.
The ideal candidate will be able to deal firmly but kindly with a wide variety of vulnerable individuals. Some experience of security work highly desirable but not essential.
A rewarding job as part of a small friendly team helping the homeless.
Closing date: 31 May 2015
For more info and a job description, pls go to www.amchurch.co.uk/soup-kitchen/
To be considered, send your CV and a covering letter to Miranda Suit: soupkitchendirector@hotmail.com

Age UK Camden seeks Advice Services Manager
Local Government Scale PO2 £33,579-£36,186, plus 6% contributory pension.
The Advice and Advocacy Manager post is an exciting opportunity for someone with a background in areas such as welfare rights, advocacy or care management , combined with management experience.
The postholder will manage the Age UK Camden (AUC) information, advice, support and advocacy (IAA) services and team. AUC’s IAA services are delivered by a staff and volunteer team in person (from the office, outreach venues, home visits), by phone, and online.
You will: manage staff and, via a deputy, direct the recruitment and management of volunteers; ensure that AUC’s and IAA funders’ targets are met; manage caseloads to ensure equity and challenge within the team; report to multiple funders; uphold the Advice Quality Mark standards lead development and innovation in the IAA team including assisting with funding applications and tenders.
The post is based at our head office in Tavistock Square, Camden. AUC offers a contributory pension, and season ticket or bicycle loan facility.
For further details and an application form visit our website www.ageukcamden.org.uk or email jobs@ageukcamden.org.uk or telephone 020 7239 0400. No CVs, no agencies please.
Closing date: 9:00am Tuesday 26th May 2015 Interviews: Monday 1st June 2015

Mental Health Champions Project – Somali-speaking volunteers wanted
Voluntary Action Camden supports volunteer Mental Health Champions to engage with Camden-based BMER and faith communities. Key aims of the project are to (1) raise awareness of mental health and wellbeing either in the community or in the workplace (2) tackle stigma by starting conversations about mental health in a non-threatening way (e.g by using simple tools such as the Five Ways to Wellbeing) and (3) improve access to mental health services so that people receive help in a timely fashion. Our volunteer Mental Health Champions may be staff or volunteers from community organisations, or individuals interested in improving awareness about mental health.
We are very keen to recruit volunteers or community workers from the Somali community to join the Project. Contact VAC’s Mental Health Team on mentalhealthteam@vac.org.uk if you are interested or would like to know more.

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/

OFFERS, RESOURCES and ANNOUNCEMENTS

Launching Comics in Schools
In partnership with a school in Camden, and with input from various people and organisations.
The site www.comicsinschools.org/ is a multimedia resource using issue-based comics and creative tools to understand and tackle barriers to achievement in schools, and we aim for it to be used in educational settings (across the UK and hopefully Europe) to explore similar issues and themes with young people from an intentionally broad point of view.
The resources, based on the themes and stories in the Meet the Somalis comics, reflect the visual and aural tradition of Somalia in a non-traditional way. They paint a richer and broader picture of issues which can be oversimplified and defined by these statistics and wider public attitudes.
We are quite proud that almost all of the resources have been made by young people.

Nepal Appeal
On Saturday 25 April a massive 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck Nepal. It severely shook the lives of at least 5.3m people and left many homeless. Nepal’s major cities, including the capital Kathmandu, have been badly damaged and rural areas near the epicentre have been completely cut off by avalanches. Find out more and donate at the Disasters Emergency Committee website or at Pasa Puchah guthi UK or for blankets, tents and medicines you can drop your donation off at the Great Nepalese, Eversholt Street, NW1 (next to Euston station) from 11.00-2.30 Monday to Saturday.

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.

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To get discounts on training, room hire and many more benefits click here to join Voluntary Action Camden

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If you have an item for the e-bulletin, please email it to Kevin Nunan, knunan@vac.org.uk with a note of which section you would like it to appear under.

Voluntary Action Camden e-Bulletin 15th May 2015

Highlights: Camden Disability Action (CDA) Launch; Consultation on Future Camden Council and Voluntary and Community Sector Relationship; Directory of Social Change Charity Fair; Launching Comics in Schools; Fundraising Masterclass; Creating Connections 10; Free Tickets to Lord’s match; Celebrating Intergenerational Week; Consultation on proposed changes to the Council’s early education and childcare places and children centre services; plus news, funding, events, jobs, volunteering and more.

NEWS

Camden Disability Action (CDA) Launch Event Wednesday, 27 May 2015, 5:30pm to 7:30pm
The Camden Centre, Camden Town Hall, Judd Street, London WC1H 9JE
An event to tell you about CDA the new user led organisation to represent deaf and disabled people in Camden. It will not be a discussion about the closure of DISC or the past but a focus on the way forward with the following Agenda.
• Why is CDA needed and what will its role be?
• Progress made so far to charitable status and what becoming a member will mean to you
• All your questions answered
• Becoming a member
Voluntary Action Camden is helping to organise this event on behalf of CDA.
To book a place please contact Ricky or Monica at VAC.
E-mail: acharles@vac.org.uk Fax: 020 7284 6551 Telephone: 020 7284 6553. Typetalk: 18001-020 7284 6555
This meeting will be fully accessible, but please let us know your access requirements when you book.

Invitation to 19th May Event and Future Consultation Information re Partnership with the Voluntary and Community Sector:
Last week we reported the message from Coucillor Hai to the sector announcing the second stage of the consultation process with the VCS and the council’s aspiration for a “simpler, more strategic relationship that is focussed around the delivery of the Camden Plan.”
The first event which is part of this consultation process will take place on 19th May from 10am till 12.30pm in the Macmillan Hall, Senate House, Malet Street, London, WC1E 7HU.
This is an important consultation and engagement event which will be presenting the different options and models we are currently looking at in regards to the new CTS (Communities and Third Sector) funding programme. We are particularly keen to have both funded and unfunded groups’ present at all upcoming consultations meetings, so please forward this onto other organisations currently unfunded by the Council who would be interested in attending.
If you would like to attend the upcoming consultation, require further information or if you wish to access the full version of Councillor Hai’s message please email, noor.al-baddawy@camden.gov.uk

Directory of Social Change Charity Fair
30th June and 1st July, Holloway Road
Whatever your role in the sector, there is training for you here: Charityfair has 64 workshops, from only £35, covering a huge variety of topics including fundraising, management & leadership, marketing, governance, personal development, legal & finance, wellbeing, campaigning & lobbying and organisational support.
More information and booking at www.charityfair.org.uk

Launching Comics in Schools
In partnership with a school in Camden, and with input from various people and organisations.
The site www.comicsinschools.org/ is a multimedia resource using issue-based comics and creative tools to understand and tackle barriers to achievement in schools, and we aim for it to be used in educational settings (across the UK and hopefully Europe) to explore similar issues and themes with young people from an intentionally broad point of view.
The resources, based on the themes and stories in the Meet the Somalis comics, reflect the visual and aural tradition of Somalia in a non-traditional way. They paint a richer and broader picture of issues which can be oversimplified and defined by these statistics and wider public attitudes.
We are quite proud that almost all of the resources have been made by young people.

National News
Election Promises
National Voices have collected all the Conservative election promises into one document. There are 6 pages of promises. You can read them all here.

Fundraising Masterclass
29th May 2015, 2:30 pm – 4:30 pm at London Voluntary Service Council
Are you worried about your fundraising? Would you like to know more about the different types of fundraising and which ones might be best for you?
Come to our Fundraising Masterclass by Peter Rosenvinge (Worshipful Company of Marketors).
This event is for London based voluntary & Community sector organisations who need help with their fundraising.
The event aims to:
~ Give an overview of the different types of fundraising
~ Suggest which types of fundraising are best suited to different causes
~ Give an opportunity for participants to ask practical questions about their own situation
~ Participants will be able to ask the speaker for one free follow up consultation/advisory meeting about their charity
For more information and booking go to www.lvsc.org.uk

Creating Connections 10
Monday 15th June, 6–8pm in the Front Quad Pavilion at University College London.
In celebration of our tenth event, Creating Connections 10 is taking Creativity and Collaboration as its twin themes. As with all previous Creating Connections, the aim of the event is to bring UCL’s academic staff and postgraduate researchers together with representatives of the community and voluntary sector (with a healthy sprinkling of arts, heritage and cultural organisations), to find areas of common interest and projects they can collaborate on. The evening is a mix of themed discussions in small groups with more informal networking.
Find out more and book your place by Monday 8th June

Age UK Camden has Free Tickets to Lord’s for a Cricket ‘Memories Match’: Book
Are you a Cricket Fan? Are you over 60? Would you like FREE tickets to the Middlesex v Warwickshire LV County Championship Match at Lord’s on Monday 1st June? Better get in quick! The deadline for booking is Monday 18th May.
The Memories Match is organised by Lord’s Cricket, and is a chance to talk about old memories and create some new ones. It’s an opportunity to meet like-minded new people over a cup of tea at the Home of Cricket!
The day runs from 10am – 6pm with breaks for lunch and tea. Anyone is welcome to bring their own food and drink into Lord’s if they wish; however if you would like to treat yourself on the day, a range of drinks and snacks are on offer ranging between £2.20 – £6.50. There is the additional option of a sit-down lunch in Lord’s Tavern at a 10% discount by booking ahead.
There is also the opportunity to access the Museum at Lords for a discounted price of £1, or a tour of the grounds for a discounted fee of £8, again by booking ahead.
Please note that transport is not provided, so you would need to make your own arrangements to travel to and from the match.
If you would like to go, contact Jo by Monday 18th May by email jo.bartlett-hubbard@ageukcamden.org.uk or phone 020 7239 0400. Please include your name and phone number, confirm that you are over 60, and be sure to mention if you would like to take up the offer of the discounted sit-down lunch, museum entry or tour.

Celebrating Intergenerational Week at KTCC
Join us for great music, food, dance performances and free craft workshops open to all ages and abilities.
Taking place at Kentish Town Community Centre, 17 Busby Place (off Torriano Avenue), Kentish Town, London NW5 2SP
The event is wheelchair accessible. Free transport for the less mobile is available on a first come, first served basis. Email Isabelle@ktcc.org.uk or ring 020 7482 3212 for more information about the event.
See more at: http://www.projectdirt.com/apps/event/34287/

Consultation on proposed changes to the Council’s early education and childcare places and children centre services
The Council is proposing to make some changes to the services it provides for children under five and their families.
The proposals we are consulting on include:
· Increasing the number of free and subsidised early education and childcare places available to two year olds from low income families.
· Whether we take a phased approach to ending community nursery grants to voluntary and community sector organisations, but support these organisations to draw on national funding and develop new business models. We currently give grants to some organisations in Camden to contribute towards the cost of nursery provision, while others operate without this funding.
· Keeping children’s centre buildings open but making changes to children’s centre services, including changes to drop-in / stay and play sessions and some of the other services which are currently provided at our 14 children’s centres.
You can read more about the proposals and respond to the online consultation questions at www.camden.gov.uk/camdensurestart

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

Voicability
The latest edition of the mental health service user newsletter, Getting Better, is available online here www.voiceability.org/images/uploads/Mental_Health_newsletter_issue_3_spring_2015.pdf

Wellbeing Workshop for Carers
Do you provide unpaid support to someone who has a mental health problem, physical health needs, dementia, frailty or other disability? Come to a free workshop to find out what support is available for you.
Tuesday 12th May at 11am Camden Hub, 8 Fairhazel Gardens, NW6 3SG
~ Learn some simple everyday techniques to help improve your mental wellbeing
~ Access a range of free support: information, advice and advocacy, emotional support, leisure activities and support groups, breaks and respite, health checks. Opportunity to join the Camden Carers Network
~ Have the option of an hour’s mindfulness meditation to focus on yourself and your present
Refreshments provided. For more information or to book a place please contact Abigail Darton on 02072784437 or email abigail.darton@hcct.org.uk

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

Age Uk Camden, Hopscotch Asian Women’s Centre, Mary Ward Legal Centre, The Working Men’s College, IKWRO, One Housing, VAC, CRI, 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

FUNDING NEWS

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

Skipton Building Society Grassroots Giving 2015 Now Open
Skipton Building Society launched its award-winning Grassroots Giving programme in 2013 to help celebrate its 160th anniversary. That year we gave away 160 pots of £500 to deserving community-based organisations across the UK. This year 162 £500 awards will be made. Note that this is aimed at small community groups and excludes registered charities. Skipton have also published some useful resources. Full details and FAQ here.

Crowdfunding?
Don’t forget that there is a dedicated page on Spacehive just for Camden project. And set up costs are free to Camden groups. Find out more at Spacehive Camden.

The Origin Housing Community Grants Programme
The 2015/16 programme is now open, with the first deadline being Monday 29 June.
Everything you need to apply can be found online here: http://www.originhousing.org.uk/communitygrants.aspx
We welcome all applications for projects that will benefit our residents and customers, and fit into one or more of the following themes:
Building Stronger Communities
Gardening Food and Environmental
Celebrating Heritage
Origin anticipate spending all the budget in this first round. The deadline is 29 June.

Community Awards from OneFamily
OneFamily have 15 awards of £5,000 & four awards of £25,000 available for community projects, charities and clubs to access. Last year we awarded £125,000 to 18 community projects and we were delighted to receive votes from 68,000 individuals who wanted to support projects either close to home or close to their heart. We’ve committed £5 million over the next 5 years to make a difference in communities.
Projects need to be nominated by one of our customers. One in 12 UK families holds a policy with us so community groups may already know of somebody who can nominate their project. Nomination close at 9am on 26 May before a public vote will determine the winners. Voting opens at 10am on 2 June and closes at midday on 29 June.
You can find some of our winners stories and further information on our website – https://foundation.onefamily.com/community-awards

FreeSport offers grants up to £1500
FreeSport – part of the Mayor of London’s sport legacy programme – enables organisations and community groups of all shapes and sizes to apply for grants of up to £1,500 to run free sports activities for Londoners.
The next round of funding opens on 15 April 2015.
FreeSport is about inspiring people of all ages and abilities to try a new sport or activity, but importantly, it’s also about inspiring organisations who may never have done anything sporty before, and to spark their interest to run regular sport sessions. In previous FreeSport rounds we have funded a huge variety of activities ranging from traditional sports like football or rugby through to circus skills and ‘chairobics’
Applications are straight forward and we have lots of information to guide applicants who may never have applied for a grant before.
For more information on the FreeSport grant, you can visit the website which is: www.London.gov.uk/freesport

London Catalyst and the Hospital Saturday Fund have come together to launch a new ‘Partners for Health’ grant programme.
Grants of up to £10,000 will be considered for social action projects tackling the effects of poverty and health inequalities in London. ‘Partners for Health’ is open to community groups that can demonstrate a thoughtful response to local needs and partnership with an expert health agency. There is a particular interest in the areas of mental health and addiction.
The closing date for receipt of completed applications is Friday 29 May 2015. The application form and guidance can be downloaded at www.londoncatalyst.org.uk/grants/ – click on the ‘Partners For Health’ link in the opening paragraph of our Special Interest Grants.

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

VAC EVENTS

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

Mental health courses and workshops from VAC
To book your place, 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 based in Camden or which serve Camden residents. Places are limited on each course to a maximum of two people per organisation.
If you have any queries about our training, please contact us on our new email address: mentalhealthteam@vac.org.uk.

Mental Health First Aid Training Thursday 4th June and Thursday 11th June 2015
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a nationally approved two-day course, designed for anyone without specialist mental health training. The course promotes awareness of mental health issues, and trains non-mental health professionals to recognise those affected by mental health problems and to offer initial help and guidance towards professional support. This can lead to improved outcomes for those affected, their families, friends, colleagues and employers.
Participants will receive a copy of the MHFA manual and certificate on completion of the course.
To book your place please go to: https://vac.org.uk/event/mental-health-first-aid-mhfa-2-day-course/
If you have any questions please contact the Mental Health Team on: mentalhealthteam@vac.org.uk or call 020 7284 6550.

OTHER EVENTS

Free Taster Programme from Camden Council and Catalyst, Tuesday 19th May 2015
‘Over the summer Community Catalysts are managing a project for Camden Council called the Taster Programme. The project hopes to re-establish and nurture connections between older and disabled people and their local community.
Camden has a high number of people who access day centres and they also have a large number of day centre buildings which are underutilised. These centres work well for some people but also have limitations. Referrals have fallen by 40% in the last year and anecdotal evidence suggests that people are looking for alternatives.
Many of the people who attend these centres have skills and knowledge that could be of real value to others in their community but which can go unrecognised and untapped.
Camden also has a large number of businesses, arts and heritage spaces, community and faith organisations and groups. Many of these organisations aim to connect with the whole community and to be inclusive. Some are facing a reduction in funding or support and would like an opportunity to develop their offer or open their space to more and different people.
The Taster Programme aims to support all this to come together.
Offering people who attend day centres a chance to explore alternatives and to try something different in a safe, supported way, without any risk to their current services (with support from day service staff if they need it)
Offering people with skills and knowledge a chance to share it with others in their community
Offering businesses, organisations, groups and institutions a chance to extend what they offer and develop their skills and capacity
Building a picture of community spaces that could be of value to everyone in Camden
We need to identify groups, organisations, businesses, agencies and initiatives that might:
Be willing to offer a ‘taster’ opportunity in June, July or August and/or
Have space available for use or hire and/or
Open up opportunities for older or disabled people to share their skills and knowledge
We’ll offer organisations like yours help to assess what you actually offer and to explore what you could. We’ll also offer you help to build skills and capacity if this is needed. We’ll broker links with older and disabled people and day service staff and support everyone involved.
We would love to see you at one of our short information sessions, however you must book your place below:
If you would like to find out more about the Taster Programme you need to book your place at one of the following short information sessions being run across Camden on the 19th May 2015.’
Please choose from one of the times and locations below (follow the link to secure your place):-
10:00am – 11:30pm – Lumen United Reformed Church & Community Centre
(88 Tavistock Place, WC1H 9RS)
12:00pm – 13:30pm – Lumen United Reformed Church & Community Centre
(88 Tavistock Place, WC1H 9RS)
15:30pm – 17:00pm – Charlie Ratchford Resource Centre
(Belmont Street, NW1 8HF)

Dying Matters Week 2015
Camden Carers Service is holding an event on 19 May to celebrate Dying Matters Week.
Dying Matters Week runs from Monday 18 to Sunday 24 May, and the event aims to encourage people to talk about dying, and their plans for their end of life.
This year’s theme is ‘talk, plan, live’ – aimed at encouraging people across the county to take the following five simple steps to make the end of their life better for them and their loved ones:
1. Write your will
2. Record your funeral wishes
3. Plan your future care and support
4. Consider registering as an organ donor
5. Tell your loved ones your wishes
Join Camden Carers Service on Tuesday 19 May Camden Carers Service to find out more about planning your end of life and to remember your loved ones:
Tuesday 19 May, 11am to 2pm at Granary Square, King’s Cross
Find out more dyingmatters.org 020 7428 8950/55

Citywise Employability Training
Following the success of the 1st Deloitte Employability training day another team have asked to work with Citywise volunteers to provide training in employability skills for unemployed volunteers aged 50+.
This will be held on Friday 29th May 10.45am – 4pm and will provide one to one support to help improve employability skills.
We are planning two sessions to run concurrently: Preparing for Interview and CV clinic
In order for the day to be successful and for the volunteers to be able to structure their support to your individual needs we are asking volunteers to provide their CV in advance and some information about what type of paid employment they are looking for.
For more information or to book a place contact: Sue King: sue.king@volunteeringmatters.org.uk; Citywise@volunteeringmatters.org.uk; 020 3780 5910

LGBT Inclusion Conference at Camden Working Men’s College
Tuesday, 16 June 2015 from 09:30 to 15:30
One day conference aimed at senior Equality and Diversity Managers within the Further Education sector to disseminate findings of WMC LGBT project, The Humane Selfie, Life Gets Better Together, and share good practice.
Further details about the ECU Funded project at WMC can be found on this link http://www.wmcollege.ac.uk/pages/equality.aspx
Lunch and refreshment provided. Book your free place at Eventbrite.

Develop your skills in facilitating positive behaviour change
Camden and Islington Public Health fund this free, one-day course, specifically designed for professionals to develop skills in facilitating positive behaviour change when promoting healthy lifestyles across Camden and Islington.
“Addressing unhealthy lifestyle behaviours is a key intervention which will prevent long-term ill-health and improve outcomes. Promoting Change is an award winning training that will equip frontline staff with the skills and confidence to recognise and address these issues and support people to lead healthier lives.” -Julie Billett Director of Public Health for Camden and Islington.
Places are allocated on a first come, first served basis so don’t delay – take the next step in your professional development and confirm your place today: https://promotingchangetraining.eventbrite.com
Contact Paula Prince at Whittington Health NHS for alternative dates or for more information: paula.prince@nhs.net or call 0207 527 1189

Big Lottery “Building Better Opportunities” Fund
This is a new fund for employability opening on 2 June 2015. It will be a two stage application process with very tight deadlines. (There will probably be a second round after that with a deadline in November.) This fund comes from the EU but it is not match funded – that is you receive the whole amount needed for the project.
It is not known how much organisations will be expected to apply for – but it will almost certainly be £500,000 or more and with a partnership including at least two other boroughs from the nine central London boroughs. It will be expected that partnerships will include the public sector and the VCS and could include businesses as well.
There will be a meeting for Camden VCS groups that would be interested in joining a partnership or partnerships to apply for this funding. The Council may well not have the resources to be the lead organisation in a partnership but staff are willing to facilitate the process. EU funded projects require a lot of work and very detailed reporting and this funding is probably best suited to organisations that already support residents into employment or significantly increase their chances of getting work.
Thursday 28 May 2015 at 3.15 for a prompt start at 3.30. The meeting will end at 5pm.
Committee Room 4 in the Old Town Hall, Judd Street.
For more information or to book a place contact frances.connelly@camden.gov.uk or call 020 7974 6457.

The Training and Development Service at the London Borough of Camden are delighted to announce the launch of the new Care Act e-learning training platform, MeLearning.
The courses available through the platform have been especially designed for the needs of Adult Social Care practitioners. They provide you with the opportunity to strengthen your knowledge of the Care Act, and count towards your CPD
We recommend that you take full advantage of the wide variety of modules on separate aspects of the Care Act available through the platform, to ensure your knowledge is up to date. The courses can be accessed free of charge by all Council employees, as well as members of partner organisations.
To access the courses, visit
https://camden.melearning.university/course_centre
Upcoming safeguarding adults courses:
· Safeguarding adults awareness – theatre – 18 May 2015
· Minute taking for safeguarding enquiries – 9 June 2015
If you experience any problems, please do not hesitate to contact us at TDSOnline@camden.gov.uk
or by calling 020 7974 3701/ 020 7974 2821.
We also provide bespoke, on site Safeguarding adults awareness training sessions. If you have members of staff who require the Basic Awareness safeguarding adults course (Level II), our Safeguarding adults training officer, Jacqui Robertson, can come to your institution and deliver the session.
The Safeguarding adults, and MCA and DoLS training sessions are fully subsidized, and are offered free of charge to all members of staff who provide services for adults at risk in Camden.

Train to Campaign offers low-cost, high quality campaign training workshops in central London to help you make a real impact.
Campaigning Essentials is a half day introduction to the core principles of effective campaigning. Whether you are new to campaigning, or have never had formal training in the basic building blocks of a good campaign, this workshop is for you.
Campaigning Essentials
Wed 3rd June 2015 | 1.15 – 5pm
Other upcoming workshops:
Perfect your campaign elevator pitch
Tue 23rd June 2015 | 1.15 – 5pm
How to influence and lobby Parliament
Thu 16th July 2015 | 1.15 – 5pm
For information about other upcoming campaign training workshops visit www.traintocampaign.london

St Pancras Rehabilitation Unit Open Day & Camden Community Services Disability Awareness Event
Tuesday 26th May 2015 between 1:30pm and 4:30pm, St Pancras Hospital South Wing
St Pancras Rehabilitation Unit acts as a pivotal part of the transition and support for patients in their recovery journey back home from UCLH, the Royal Free, the Whittington and other acute hospitals. We are keen that the unit is seen as a local resource which our whole community is proud and as such I am delighted to invite you to our joint event on Tuesday the 26th May 2015.
This is an opportunity for you, colleagues and members of the local community to learn more about the first class rehabilitation our clinical staff provide at St Pancras Rehabilitation Unit. If you are free to attend please reply to Kathryn Ford, lead for Equalities and Diversities in Camden email kathrynford@nhs.net or telephone 020 3317 3776 by 7th May 2015 so she can confirm catering arrangements.

Theatro Technis proudly presents latest production “OH, DEMOCRACY”
A musical adaptation of Aristophanes’ “THE KNIGHTS” by Keith Murphy, George Eugeniou and Marco Aponte.
Back in 424 BC, when ARISTOPHANES wrote “THE KNIGHTS” it poked fun at the political leaders in Athens, the like of leather merchant Kleon, who put his own personal gains above the city’s interest. Now almost 2500 years later it is as relevant as ever.
Opens: 26th May 7.30pm
The play runs until 6th June, Sunday Matinees 5pm, no shows on Mondays
Tickets: £10/concession £8
26 Crowndale Road London NW1 1TT
Tel: 020 7387 6617 fax: 020 73832545
Email: info@theatrotechnis.com website: www.theatrotechnis.com

Camden People’s Theatre present Stand Up and Down
A man tries to get out of a personal predicament by going into comedy. Things go well for a while – but soon he’s finding it harder to make people laugh. Might this be to do with something inside himself? At a drop-in centre for people with psychological problems, he starts to see himself and society in a different way…
The Stand Up and Down raises awareness of mental health as a social issue. One in four people will be affected by psychological problems at some point in their life. Des Marshall writer, Harry Meacher director sees theatre as a creative way of addressing these concerns.
Tue 9 Jun 2015 – Sun 21 Jun 2015, 7.30pm and 4pm on Sundays at Camden People’s Theatre, 58 – 60 Hampstead Road, NW1 2PY, Tickets: £12 / 10.
Box Office – 0207 419 4841 www.cptheatre.co.uk

VCC Volunteer Management Training
Dealing With Difficult Situations With Volunteers and is for those of you who have the basics, but worry about handling tricky or uncomfortable situations with volunteers. This is also a half-day course on Thursday 21st May and you can book via eventbrite here.
Five free early-bird tickets for organisations that involve volunteers in Camden, and £59+bf for everyone else.

Learn to Build a Website
Free introductory sessions at West Euston Partnership or St Luke’s Community Centre. Various dates in May, June. Contact Jed Keenan on 07950963069 or email jed.keenan@aliteracyprogramme.org. Further information and booking at www.eliteracyprogramme.org

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

Decentralise in Camden
The Camden Climate Change Alliance will be hosting a half day event on Thursday 21 May – ‘Decentralise In Camden’ – to bring together local organisations who are interested in understanding and contributing to Camden’s vision for decentralised energy networks. With knowledgeable speakers and case studies, the event will provide an opportunity for attendees to understand the benefits of implementing or connecting to an energy network, to learn about the various projects delivered to date and most importantly, what will be going on in Camden in over the coming years.
If your organisation would be interested in finding out more about the ‘Decentralise in Camden’ event, register your interest by emailing camdencca@camden.gov.uk and we’ll keep you updated.

Big Advice Day, June 16th, London – completely free 1:1 advice sessions with expert advisors
Big Advice Day is a day of free support for small charities as part of Small Charity Week 2015. The day consists of 1:1 hour long sessions with expert advisors; you choose the topics you’re interested in and we’ll match you to suitable advisors. We have advisors with expertise across a whole range of subjects
The day is completely free to attend includes refreshments. You can attend in person or access advice via phone or Skype. Those attending on the day will also benefit from a range of free workshops.
If you would like to attend Big Advice Day and you are a registered charity with a turnover of under £1.5m per year then sign up here by 18th May.

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

JOBS AND VOLUNTEERS

Bedford House seeks Volunteers
Nahida Chowdhury, the Senior Community Organiser based at Bedford House, Holborn, is looking for local volunteers to work alongside her and learn Community Organising skills. If you want more information or are interested in this opportunity please contact nahida.chowdhury@corganisers.org.uk

Hopscotch seeks Care Supervisor (Maternity Cover)
35 hrs per week (job share may be considered for the right candidates)
12 months, until July 2016 25,034 incl. ILW
Closing date: 11th June 2015
A confident and conscientious Bengali-speaking worker is required to provide supervision support to a challenging and rewarding service within Hopscotch. The Home Care service offers health and personal care to older people, those who are housebound and to adults with disabilities, to help support their independence and improve their quality of life.
We provide a specialist care service, with a particular focus on the South Asian community. Most of our carers are bilingual. This means they speak English and a range of languages including Bengali, Sylheti, Hindi, Urdu, Nepali, Arabic and Somali.
The Care Supervisor will be responsible for the efficient running of the service and making sure that all care plans are delivered accurately at all times. They will be responsible for quality checks, risk assessments and the training and supervision of a team of care workers. The majority of their time will be spent in the field. They will also be required to share responsibility with Care Coordinators for an emergency on-call service.
For an informal discussion about the post, jd and application please contact Melissa McClelland, Homecare Registered Manager at info@hopscotchawc.org.uk

Age UK Camden seeks Programme Manager, (Job-Share)
Local Government Scale PO3 (c. £19.5-21k pa for 19 hour week)
Camden has been selected as one of 14 areas in England to deliver an innovative 6 year programme of support for isolated older people. Ageing Better in Camden is a local partnership of statutory, voluntary and private agencies and older people led by Age UK Camden. We require a dynamic job-share Programme Manager to: monitor recently appointed delivery partners; manage future tendering processes, support and develop the strategic partnership; manage part-time staff arranging support, training and events to delivery partners, older people and volunteers; manage ABC’s relationship with the Big Lottery and its evaluation and support agents.
Essential requirements: experience of working with older people; experience of engagement preferably co-production; knowledge of issues affecting older people including isolation; excellent communication and interpersonal skills; strong programme management skills including monitoring and evaluation and funder reporting; ability to deliver successful multi-agency partnership work; highly numerate and literate; ability to innovate, manage change and be solutions focussed.
AUC offers a contributory pension, and a season ticket or bicycle loan facility. The post is based at Tavis House, Tavistock Square with easy access via Euston and Kings Cross main lines or Russell Square tube.
For more details, all documents can be downloaded from our website www.ageukcamden.org.uk or email jobs@ageukcamden.org.uk.
Closing date – 9:00am Monday, 1st June2015; Interviews -18th June 2015. No agencies, no CVs.

Age UK Camden seeks Administrative Assistant
12 Month Contract (subject to review and extension)
Scale 4 £21,120- £23,145 plus 6% contributory pension.
This key position will operate the phone switchboard, responding to information enquiries (via the telephone, email and face to face). The role also involves completing various administrative tasks working with all our departments and the Senior Management Team and ensuring our back of house facilities are fully operational by ordering stock, managing room bookings and general house-keeping on a daily basis.
Essentials include: a general knowledge of issues and services relating to older people and their needs; experience of working on a busy reception; ability to multi-task dealing with competing priorities in a calm and efficient manner; administrative skills; IT literacy; and excellent communication skills.
For further details and an application form visit our website www.ageukcamden.org.uk or email jobs@ageukcamden.org.uk or telephone 020 7239 0400. No CVs, no agencies please.
Closing date: 9:00am, Monday 1st June 2015
Interviews: Tuesday 9th June 2015

Kentish Town Community Centre is looking for an inspiring Chair of Trustees
Are you looking for a new challenge? Have you got an interest in local issues?
Visit www.ktcc.org.uk/about/current-vacancies for further details on all KTCC opportunities and to apply.

The Soup Kitchen seeks Part-Time Welcomer/Security Person
The Soup Kitchen at the American International Church in the West End requires a Welcomer who also monitors the behaviour of our service users. A part-time post on up to 5 mornings a week. Salary depends on experience.
The ideal candidate will be able to deal firmly but kindly with a wide variety of vulnerable individuals. Some experience of security work highly desirable but not essential.
A rewarding job as part of a small friendly team helping the homeless.
Closing date: 31 May 2015
For more info and a job description, pls go to www.amchurch.co.uk/soup-kitchen/
To be considered, send your CV and a covering letter to Miranda Suit: soupkitchendirector@hotmail.com

Age UK Camden seeks Advice Services Manager
Local Government Scale PO2 £33,579-£36,186, plus 6% contributory pension.
The Advice and Advocacy Manager post is an exciting opportunity for someone with a background in areas such as welfare rights, advocacy or care management , combined with management experience.
The postholder will manage the Age UK Camden (AUC) information, advice, support and advocacy (IAA) services and team. AUC’s IAA services are delivered by a staff and volunteer team in person (from the office, outreach venues, home visits), by phone, and online.
You will: manage staff and, via a deputy, direct the recruitment and management of volunteers; ensure that AUC’s and IAA funders’ targets are met; manage caseloads to ensure equity and challenge within the team; report to multiple funders; uphold the Advice Quality Mark standards lead development and innovation in the IAA team including assisting with funding applications and tenders.
The post is based at our head office in Tavistock Square, Camden. AUC offers a contributory pension, and season ticket or bicycle loan facility.
For further details and an application form visit our website www.ageukcamden.org.uk or email jobs@ageukcamden.org.uk or telephone 020 7239 0400. No CVs, no agencies please.
Closing date: 9:00am Tuesday 26th May 2015 Interviews: Monday 1st June 2015

Mental Health Champions Project – Somali-speaking volunteers wanted
Voluntary Action Camden supports volunteer Mental Health Champions to engage with Camden-based BMER and faith communities. Key aims of the project are to (1) raise awareness of mental health and wellbeing either in the community or in the workplace (2) tackle stigma by starting conversations about mental health in a non-threatening way (e.g by using simple tools such as the Five Ways to Wellbeing) and (3) improve access to mental health services so that people receive help in a timely fashion. Our volunteer Mental Health Champions may be staff or volunteers from community organisations, or individuals interested in improving awareness about mental health.
We are very keen to recruit volunteers or community workers from the Somali community to join the Project. Contact VAC’s Mental Health Team on mentalhealthteam@vac.org.uk if you are interested or would like to know more.

The Mary Ward Legal Centre seeks a public legal education project volunteer
The Mary Ward Legal Centre is seeking a volunteer to help with its public legal education project on welfare benefits for community groups and residents in Camden. You would need to be able to commit to one day a week. You will help with preparing materials, attending presentations, making follow up phone calls as part of evaluation, and with general administration of the project.
You will get experience in these aspects as well as some general social security knowledge. You will need general IT & office skills and an interest in advice and welfare benefits, but no particular specialist knowledge.
The Mary Ward Legal Centre is based in Holborn, and you will be required to attend presentations at locations around Camden.
The Mary Ward Legal Centre will cover travel and lunch expenses.
To find out more contact Alban Hawksworth alban.hawksworth@marywardlegal.org.uk telephone 020 7269 5444

Onehouseing seeks Care Assistant – Extra Care for Older People
Full-time, part-time, flexible hours and night work £15,370 pa pro rata, Camden, London
We are currently recruiting Care Assistants to assist and enable our customers with day-to-day tasks and provide personal care for older people. You will be required to provide residents with the highest standard of care and support in accordance with their personally tailored plan.
We will offer you ongoing guidance and training, both formal and informal. You will work towards the Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care and will be part of a friendly, highly supportive team.
To apply please register with our careers website www.onehousinggroup.co.uk/careers – and upload a CV and supporting statement of no more than two pages, outlining how your skills and experience meet our needs.

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/

OFFERS, RESOURCES and ANNOUNCEMENTS

NHS 111/OOH – Online Survey
We would really like to hear your experience of using NHS 111 or Camden’s out of hours GP service. Please click on the following link if you would like to complete the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/NCL111_OOH
We are also holding some more stakeholder engagement events throughout May, which will give local patients the opportunity to discuss their experience with the existing services and hear more about the proposals for a new, integrated service. In Camden, the event will take place on Wednesday 13 May from 18.00 – 20.00 at St Pancras Hospital Conference Hall. There is a full list of the events, as well as directions to each event, on the Camden CCG website

Strengthening rights and choices for people to live in the community
The government seeks views to strengthen rights of people with learning disabilities, autism and mental health issues to enable them to live independently.
This consultation closes at 29 May 2015 11:45pm. Full details a gov.uk

Nepal Appeal
On Saturday 25 April a massive 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck Nepal. It severely shook the lives of at least 5.3m people and left many homeless. Nepal’s major cities, including the capital Kathmandu, have been badly damaged and rural areas near the epicentre have been completely cut off by avalanches. Find out more and donate at the Disasters Emergency Committee website or at Pasa Puchah guthi UK or for blankets, tents and medicines you can drop your donation off at the Great Nepalese, Eversholt Street, NW1 (next to Euston station) from 11.00-2.30 Monday to Saturday.

NHS 111 and out-of-hours GP Services in north central London
NHS Clinical Commissioning Groups in north central London are working to improve the local NHS 111 service. This includes integrating the NHS 111 service and the GP out-of-hours services to enable them to work better.
We will be holding public engagement events across north central London as an opportunity to hear from you. All residents are invited to come along and share their views and experiences of existing services so that we can work together towards developing the best possible service.
There is no need to RSVP, please just turn up; we look forward to seeing you. If you have any questions about the events, please contact feedback@nelcsu.nhs.uk or call 020 3688 1615.
Stephens House and Gardens, 17 East End Road, Finchley, London N3 3QE
Monday, 18 May 2015, 18:00 – 20:00.
St Pancras Hospital Conference Hall, 4 St Pancras Way, London NW1 0PE
Wednesday, 13 May 2015, 18:00 – 20:00.

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.

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To get discounts on training, room hire and many more benefits click here to join Voluntary Action Camden

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If you have an item for the e-bulletin, please email it to Kevin Nunan, knunan@vac.org.uk with a note of which section you would like it to appear under.

Voluntary Action Camden e-Bulletin 8th May 2015

Highlights: Camden Disability Action (CDA) Launch Event; Camden Council Consultation Event; LGBT Inclusion Conference at Camden Working Men’s College; Camden Deaf Awareness day; Camden Election Results; Strengthening rights and choices for people to live in the community; Community conversation on dog control; Kentish Town Community Centre; Building resilience via tree of life; Citywise Employability Training; NHS 111/OOH – Online Survey; Wellbeing Workshop for Carers; ; plus news, funding, events, jobs, volunteering and more.

NEWS

Camden Disability Action (CDA) Launch Event Wednesday, 27 May 2015, 5:30pm to 7:30pm
Small Hall, The Camden Centre, Camden Town Hall, Judd Street, London WC1H 9JE
An event to tell you about CDA the new user led organisation to represent deaf and disabled people in Camden. It will not be a discussion about the closure of DISC or the past but a focus on the way forward with the following Agenda.
• Why is CDA needed and what will its role be?
• Progress made so far to charitable status and what becoming a member will mean to you
• All your questions answered
• Becoming a member
Voluntary Action Camden is helping to organise this event on behalf of CDA.
To book a place please contact Ricky or Monica at VAC.
E-mail: acharles@vac.org.uk Fax: 020 7284 6551 Telephone: 020 7284 6553. Typetalk: 18001-020 7284 6555
This meeting will be fully accessible, but please let us know your access requirements when you book.

Invitation to 19th May Event and Future Consultation Information re Partnership with the Voluntary and Community Sector:
Last week we reported the message from Coucillor Hai to the sector announcing the second stage of the consultation process with the VCS and the council’s aspiration for a “simpler, more strategic relationship that is focussed around the delivery of the Camden Plan.”
The first event which is part of this consultation process will take place on 19th May from 10am till 12.30pm in the Macmillan Hall, Senate House, Malet Street, London, WC1E 7HU.
This is an important consultation and engagement event which will be presenting the different options and models we are currently looking at in regards to the new CTS (Communities and Third Sector) funding programme. We are particularly keen to have both funded and unfunded groups’ present at all upcoming consultations meetings, so please forward this onto other organisations currently unfunded by the Council who would be interested in attending.
If you would like to attend the upcoming consultation, require further information or if you wish to access the full version of Councillor Hai’s message please email, noor.al-baddawy@camden.gov.uk

LGBT Inclusion Conference at Camden Working Men’s College
Tuesday, 16 June 2015 from 09:30 to 15:30
One day conference aimed at senior Equality and Diversity Managers within the Further Education sector to disseminate findings of WMC LGBT project, The Humane Selfie, Life Gets Better Together, and share good practice.
Further details about the ECU Funded project at WMC can be found on this link http://www.wmcollege.ac.uk/pages/equality.aspx
Lunch and refreshment provided. Book your free place at Eventbrite.

Camden Deaf Awareness day – all welcome
Tuesday 12 May 2015, 9am to 4pm Camden Centre, Bidborough Street, London, WC1H 9AU
It’s the first Camden Deaf Awareness Day. Explore the challenges faced by deaf and hard of hearing residents and find out more about the support available across the borough. It’s a chance to exchange stories, experiences and ideas and look at how we can work together better. The day will include VIP speakers, a question time session and stalls from local and national organisations.
Communication support will be provided including BSL interpreters, Lip speakers, a Palantypist and T-Loop.
For more information or if you wish to volunteer on the day please contact Asif Iqbal, at asif.iqbal@camden.gov.uk
or call 020 7974 4444. Typetalk: 18001 020 7974 4444 TexBox: 020 7974 6866

National News
Camden Election Results
Holborn and St Pancras gets its first new MP since 1979 as Sir Keir Starmer is elected MP in Holborn and St Pancras. Tulip Siddiq won the seat in the north of the borough, billed as the country’s most marginal general election contest, by 1138 votes. The former councillor replaces the retiring Glenda Jackson.
General Election
Civil Society asked a range of civil society leaders for their reactions – which ranged from “an appalling result” to “we expect great things”. Full details at Civil Society. NCVO have a blog on the implications for the voluntary sector that is worth reading.
On the eve of the election NCVO’s CEO issued a letter to the voluntary sector that is stronger and clearer than much that sector leaders have said in recent years. He warned politicians against seeking “novelty and quick fixes”. And said that “too often grants are seen as a dull relic of the past: they should be seen as the risk capital of the future.” He also takes aim at the concerted efforts of politicians to stifle the sectors voice saying “far from courting popularity, our role and our duty must often be to bring to attention things that people do not want to hear.” The letter also contains some bleak warnings: “we must find a way to get on and get through without government, as we so often have. We’re not without power, nor resources ourselves. I wonder therefore if we lack confidence?” Ultimately he presents a vision of “a civil society unafraid of holding to account those with power, speaking up for those without it, and supporting those who want to create their own future.” On equality he argues for the living wage and urges civil society to take a lead in “looking at the ratio between their median and highest salaries.”

Strengthening rights and choices for people to live in the community
The government seeks views to strengthen rights of people with learning disabilities, autism and mental health issues to enable them to live independently.
This consultation closes at 29 May 2015 11:45pm. Full details a gov.uk

Commissioning for Health Resources
There is a great deal of interest at the moment in how the VCS can support the wider health agenda. A number of useful resources are available:
The South East Commissioning Support Unit are developing case studies and good practice on their website. The case studies include VAC’s Volunteer Health Advocates amongst many others. Video case studies coming soon.
The Hear network have gathered a number of case studies to demonstrate innovative ways of tackling inequalities in health. Available on the London for All website.
Rights Info
have produced a useful and accessible guide to Human Rights and Health giving useful examples and case studies linked to the relevant convention articles.

Community conversation on dog control
Camden Council is inviting you to share your views on dog control in Camden.
Join in the community conversation on Sunday 17 May from 2pm to 4pm at the Arlington Conference Centre, 220 Arlington Road, NW1 7HE.
The Council want as many people as possible to give them their views on issues around dog control.
please let the Community Safety Service know if you would like to attend either by email: communitysafety@camden.gov.uk or by phone: 020 7974 2915 by Wednesday 13 May.

Kentish Town Community Centre
KTCC have a full programme of events and activities coming up – including the Kentish Town festival on 6th June Full details available here. Sign up if you would like to volunteer, have a stall or get involved by emailing: projects@ktcc.org.uk.
And Celebrating Intergenerational Week at KTCC Saturday 16th May, 1pm – 5pm
Come on down to KTCC on Saturday 16th May to celebrate Intergenerational Week. There’ll be performances, workshops, dancing, music and food.
Free – all welcome, from ages 3 to 103! Free transport is available for local people with restricted mobility. For further information please visit http://bit.ly/1xFdbub or ring Isabelle on 020 7482 3212..

Building resilience via tree of life 6 weeks course
Tuesday 12 May – 30 June 2015
12:00 – 3:00pm Islington Central Library
Free spaces available 12 and19 May; 2, 9, 23 and 30 June
Aims of the course are to relate to strength, values, aspirations and qualities by identifying skills and resources within ourselves. Goal planning is part of the sessions to overcome difficulties in the storms of life.
Please call Tel: (020) 3317 6904 or email recovery.college@candi.nhs.uk

Citywise Employability Training
Following the success of the 1st Deloitte Employability training day another team have asked to work with Citywise volunteers to provide training in employability skills for unemployed volunteers aged 50+.
This will be held on Friday 29th May 10.45am – 4pm and will provide one to one support to help improve employability skills.
We are planning two sessions to run concurrently: Preparing for Interview and CV clinic
In order for the day to be successful and for the volunteers to be able to structure their support to your individual needs we are asking volunteers to provide their CV in advance and some information about what type of paid employment they are looking for.
For more information or to book a place contact: Sue King: sue.king@volunteeringmatters.org.uk; Citywise@volunteeringmatters.org.uk; 020 3780 5910

NHS 111/OOH – Online Survey
We would really like to hear your experience of using NHS 111 or Camden’s out of hours GP service. Please click on the following link if you would like to complete the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/NCL111_OOH
We are also holding some more stakeholder engagement events throughout May, which will give local patients the opportunity to discuss their experience with the existing services and hear more about the proposals for a new, integrated service. In Camden, the event will take place on Wednesday 13 May from 18.00 – 20.00 at St Pancras Hospital Conference Hall. There is a full list of the events, as well as directions to each event, on the Camden CCG 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

Wellbeing Workshop for Carers
Do you provide unpaid support to someone who has a mental health problem, physical health needs, dementia, frailty or other disability? Come to a free workshop to find out what support is available for you.
Tuesday 12th May at 11am Camden Hub, 8 Fairhazel Gardens, NW6 3SG
~ Learn some simple everyday techniques to help improve your mental wellbeing
~ Access a range of free support: information, advice and advocacy, emotional support, leisure activities and support groups, breaks and respite, health checks. Opportunity to join the Camden Carers Network
~ Have the option of an hour’s mindfulness meditation to focus on yourself and your present
Refreshments provided. For more information or to book a place please contact Abigail Darton on 02072784437 or email abigail.darton@hcct.org.uk

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

Age Uk Camden, Hopscotch Asian Women’s Centre, Mary Ward Legal Centre, The Working Men’s College, IKWRO, One Housing, VAC, CRI, 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

FUNDING NEWS

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

Skipton Building Society Grassroots Giving 2015 Now Open
Skipton Building Society launched its award-winning Grassroots Giving programme in 2013 to help celebrate its 160th anniversary. That year we gave away 160 pots of £500 to deserving community-based organisations across the UK. This year 162 £500 awards will be made. Note that this is aimed at small community groups and excludes registered charities. Skipton have also published some useful resources. Full details and FAQ here.

Crowdfunding?
Don’t forget that there is a dedicated page on Spacehive just for Camden project. And set up costs are free to Camden groups. Find out more at Spacehive Camden.

The Origin Housing Community Grants Programme
The 2015/16 programme is now open, with the first deadline being Monday 29 June.
Everything you need to apply can be found online here: http://www.originhousing.org.uk/communitygrants.aspx
We welcome all applications for projects that will benefit our residents and customers, and fit into one or more of the following themes:
Building Stronger Communities
Gardening Food and Environmental
Celebrating Heritage
Origin anticipate spending all the budget in this first round. The deadline is 29 June.

Summerversity Contract Opportunities
Islington Council invites suitably experienced organisations to submit proposals to deliver high quality, engaging and innovative summer courses and activities for young people aged 13 + to be delivered as part of the Summerversity programme 2015.
Successful providers will be required to deliver free social, recreational and educational activities for young people aged 13+ providing opportunities for formal accreditation where appropriate. The aim of the programme is to engage young people in a range of stimulating courses and activities over their summer holiday that will develop their skills and interests, raise their ambitions and aspirations and expose them to the new experiences that will capture their imagination and creative ideas.
If you wish to apply for this opportunity please obtain an application form from isyp@islington.go.uk and return by 12 noon, 18 May 2015.
For an informal discussion about this opportunity please contact Luiza Mattausch on 020 7527 5947.

Community Awards from OneFamily
OneFamily have 15 awards of £5,000 & four awards of £25,000 available for community projects, charities and clubs to access. Last year we awarded £125,000 to 18 community projects and we were delighted to receive votes from 68,000 individuals who wanted to support projects either close to home or close to their heart. We’ve committed £5 million over the next 5 years to make a difference in communities.
Projects need to be nominated by one of our customers. One in 12 UK families holds a policy with us so community groups may already know of somebody who can nominate their project. Nomination close at 9am on 26 May before a public vote will determine the winners. Voting opens at 10am on 2 June and closes at midday on 29 June.
You can find some of our winners stories and further information on our website – https://foundation.onefamily.com/community-awards

FreeSport offers grants up to £1500
FreeSport – part of the Mayor of London’s sport legacy programme – enables organisations and community groups of all shapes and sizes to apply for grants of up to £1,500 to run free sports activities for Londoners.
The next round of funding opens on 15 April 2015.
FreeSport is about inspiring people of all ages and abilities to try a new sport or activity, but importantly, it’s also about inspiring organisations who may never have done anything sporty before, and to spark their interest to run regular sport sessions. In previous FreeSport rounds we have funded a huge variety of activities ranging from traditional sports like football or rugby through to circus skills and ‘chairobics’
Applications are straight forward and we have lots of information to guide applicants who may never have applied for a grant before.
For more information on the FreeSport grant, you can visit the website which is: www.London.gov.uk/freesport

London Catalyst and the Hospital Saturday Fund have come together to launch a new ‘Partners for Health’ grant programme.
Grants of up to £10,000 will be considered for social action projects tackling the effects of poverty and health inequalities in London. ‘Partners for Health’ is open to community groups that can demonstrate a thoughtful response to local needs and partnership with an expert health agency. There is a particular interest in the areas of mental health and addiction.
The closing date for receipt of completed applications is Friday 29 May 2015. The application form and guidance can be downloaded at www.londoncatalyst.org.uk/grants/ – click on the ‘Partners For Health’ link in the opening paragraph of our Special Interest Grants.

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

VAC EVENTS

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

Low Cost Trustee Training from VAC and Mary Ward Centre
There are a few places left on Governance In The Voluntary And Community Sector starting in May.
14th May 2015 – 25th June 2015 (£71/£25) 7 Thursdays, 17:30-20:30
A short course for trustees / management committee members or anybody who is interested in developing the knowledge and skills required to be a member of the committee of a voluntary or community sector organisation.
* Introduction to the Role of a Trustee/Managemet Committee Member
* Developing Governance – Responsibilities and Accountability
* Governance – Strategy and Structures
Find out more and book at the Mary Ward Centre website. For questions about the course contact Kevin Nunan.

Mental health courses and workshops from VAC
To book your place, 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 based in Camden or which serve Camden residents. Places are limited on each course to a maximum of two people per organisation.
If you have any queries about our training, please contact us on our new email address: mentalhealthteam@vac.org.uk.

Mental Health First Aid Training Thursday 4th June and Thursday 11th June 2015
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a nationally approved two-day course, designed for anyone without specialist mental health training. The course promotes awareness of mental health issues, and trains non-mental health professionals to recognise those affected by mental health problems and to offer initial help and guidance towards professional support. This can lead to improved outcomes for those affected, their families, friends, colleagues and employers.
Participants will receive a copy of the MHFA manual and certificate on completion of the course.
To book your place please go to: https://vac.org.uk/event/mental-health-first-aid-mhfa-2-day-course/
If you have any questions please contact the Mental Health Team on: mentalhealthteam@vac.org.uk or call 020 7284 6550.

OTHER EVENTS

Develop your skills in facilitating positive behaviour change
Camden and Islington Public Health fund this free, one-day course, specifically designed for professionals to develop skills in facilitating positive behaviour change when promoting healthy lifestyles across Camden and Islington.
“Addressing unhealthy lifestyle behaviours is a key intervention which will prevent long-term ill-health and improve outcomes. Promoting Change is an award winning training that will equip frontline staff with the skills and confidence to recognise and address these issues and support people to lead healthier lives.” -Julie Billett Director of Public Health for Camden and Islington.
Places are allocated on a first come, first served basis so don’t delay – take the next step in your professional development and confirm your place today: https://promotingchangetraining.eventbrite.com
Contact Paula Prince at Whittington Health NHS for alternative dates or for more information: paula.prince@nhs.net or call 0207 527 1189

Big Lottery “Building Better Opportunities” Fund
This is a new fund for employability opening on 2 June 2015. It will be a two stage application process with very tight deadlines. (There will probably be a second round after that with a deadline in November.) This fund comes from the EU but it is not match funded – that is you receive the whole amount needed for the project.
It is not known how much organisations will be expected to apply for – but it will almost certainly be £500,000 or more and with a partnership including at least two other boroughs from the nine central London boroughs. It will be expected that partnerships will include the public sector and the VCS and could include businesses as well.
There will be a meeting for Camden VCS groups that would be interested in joining a partnership or partnerships to apply for this funding. The Council may well not have the resources to be the lead organisation in a partnership but staff are willing to facilitate the process. EU funded projects require a lot of work and very detailed reporting and this funding is probably best suited to organisations that already support residents into employment or significantly increase their chances of getting work.
Thursday 28 May 2015 at 3.15 for a prompt start at 3.30. The meeting will end at 5pm.
Committee Room 4 in the Old Town Hall, Judd Street.
For more information or to book a place contact frances.connelly@camden.gov.uk or call 020 7974 6457.

North London roadshow event in partnership with Together North London and London Voluntary Service Council in Haringey on 20th May.
The event will aim to:
· Inform organisations about European Social Fund (ESF) and the Big Lottery Fund (BLF) programme including the role of the London Enterprise Panel (LEP) and its priorities, the role of the opt-In organisations, target client groups, terms of grants, activities and geography
· Highlight the potential opportunities for Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) delivery, the need for sub regional partnerships and the opportunities to develop sub regional partnerships and / or consortia
· Discuss the risks and requirements of the funding particularly for smaller organisations. Highlight issues around due diligence and financial requirements for ESF; monitoring and claims; cash flow; partnership readiness; evidencing your outcomes
· Let organisations know how they can be kept informed of what is happening and where they can they find out more.
This event compliments the previous event and is ideal for VCS organisations contemplating partnership working.
Further information and booking details are available here

The Training and Development Service at the London Borough of Camden are delighted to announce the launch of the new Care Act e-learning training platform, MeLearning.
The courses available through the platform have been especially designed for the needs of Adult Social Care practitioners. They provide you with the opportunity to strengthen your knowledge of the Care Act, and count towards your CPD
We recommend that you take full advantage of the wide variety of modules on separate aspects of the Care Act available through the platform, to ensure your knowledge is up to date. The courses can be accessed free of charge by all Council employees, as well as members of partner organisations.
To access the courses, visit
https://camden.melearning.university/course_centre
Upcoming safeguarding adults courses:
· Addressing Financial and Material Abuse – 14 May 2015
· Safeguarding and mate crime, hate crime and cuckooing – 14 May 2015
· Advanced application of the Mental Capacity Act – 15 May 2015
· Safeguarding adults awareness – theatre – 18 May 2015
· Minute taking for safeguarding enquiries – 9 June 2015
If you experience any problems, please do not hesitate to contact us at TDSOnline@camden.gov.uk
or by calling 020 7974 3701/ 020 7974 2821.
We also provide bespoke, on site Safeguarding adults awareness training sessions. If you have members of staff who require the Basic Awareness safeguarding adults course (Level II), our Safeguarding adults training officer, Jacqui Robertson, can come to your institution and deliver the session.
The Safeguarding adults, and MCA and DoLS training sessions are fully subsidized, and are offered free of charge to all members of staff who provide services for adults at risk in Camden.

Train to Campaign offers low-cost, high quality campaign training workshops in central London to help you make a real impact.
Campaigning Essentials is a half day introduction to the core principles of effective campaigning. Whether you are new to campaigning, or have never had formal training in the basic building blocks of a good campaign, this workshop is for you.
Campaigning Essentials
Wed 3rd June 2015 | 1.15 – 5pm
Other upcoming workshops:
Perfect your campaign elevator pitch
Tue 23rd June 2015 | 1.15 – 5pm
How to influence and lobby Parliament
Thu 16th July 2015 | 1.15 – 5pm
For information about other upcoming campaign training workshops visit www.traintocampaign.london

St Pancras Rehabilitation Unit Open Day & Camden Community Services Disability Awareness Event
Tuesday 26th May 2015 between 1:30pm and 4:30pm, St Pancras Hospital South Wing
St Pancras Rehabilitation Unit acts as a pivotal part of the transition and support for patients in their recovery journey back home from UCLH, the Royal Free, the Whittington and other acute hospitals. We are keen that the unit is seen as a local resource which our whole community is proud and as such I am delighted to invite you to our joint event on Tuesday the 26th May 2015.
This is an opportunity for you, colleagues and members of the local community to learn more about the first class rehabilitation our clinical staff provide at St Pancras Rehabilitation Unit. If you are free to attend please reply to Kathryn Ford, lead for Equalities and Diversities in Camden email kathrynford@nhs.net or telephone 020 3317 3776 by 7th May 2015 so she can confirm catering arrangements.

SOAS Concert Series and World Music Summer School
Full Concert series details available here. Full course programme and how to apply on the SOAS website.
Ensemble Alash Monday 11 May 2015
Astonishing music from the heart of Siberia

St Mungo’s Broadway Camden Mental Health Services invites you to Mental Health Awareness Week Festival – In the Park
Friday 15 May 2015, 11:30am- 4pm, 12 Camley St, London N1C 4PW
RSVP: matthew.blakemore@mungosbroadway.org.uk
For more info contact Salina on 07739 195 333 or Matt on 07736 886 959
BBQ, music, comedy, speakers, stalls and more
Alcohol free event. Open to everyone

Camden Intergenerational Week – 9 to 17 May
Camden Intergenerational Week 2015 brings all ages together for a week of fun, free events to encourage and celebrate interaction between young and old.
From 9 to 17 May 2015 events are being held by organisations and groups across the borough, to bring people of all ages together.
There will be something for everyone – from dancing and discussion, bingo and knitting, crafts and gardening, singing and films. There will be performances, workshops and activities that young and old can enjoy together.
The ‘mini-festival’ is being organised by residents and local partner organisations including Age UK Camden, Haverstock School and Camden Community Nurseries, with the aim of creating positive connections between generations in Camden.
Further information and full listings of the 26 intergenerational events happening during the Week can be found on the project website – www.camdenintergenerationalweek2015.org.uk. or call: 020 7974 2810
Listings of the events which are open to the public can also be found on the Camden Council website.

Improving access to urgent care in Camden
Camden Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is working with Barnet, Enfield, Haringey and Islington CCG’s to integrate the existing urgent care services across north central London. By integrating the services provided by the NHS 111 telephone service and GP out-of-hours across the five boroughs, patients will more easily be able to access urgent care. This will mean they receive the best care, from the best person, in the right place, at the right time.
There is no need to RSVP, please just turn up; we look forward to seeing you. If you have any questions about the events, please contact feedback@nelcsu.nhs.uk
or call 020 3688 1615.
Stephens House and Gardens, 17 East End Road, Finchley, London N3 3QE
Monday, 18 May 2015, 18:00 – 20:00.
St Pancras Hospital Conference Hall, 4 St Pancras Way, London NW1 0PE
Wednesday, 13 May 2015, 18:00 – 20:00.

Theatro Technis proudly presents latest production “OH, DEMOCRACY”
A musical adaptation of Aristophanes’ “THE KNIGHTS” by Keith Murphy, George Eugeniou and Marco Aponte.
Back in 424 BC, when ARISTOPHANES wrote “THE KNIGHTS” it poked fun at the political leaders in Athens, the like of leather merchant Kleon, who put his own personal gains above the city’s interest. Now almost 2500 years later it is as relevant as ever.
Opens: 26th May 7.30pm
The play runs until 6th June, Sunday Matinees 5pm, no shows on Mondays
Tickets: £10/concession £8
26 Crowndale Road London NW1 1TT
Tel: 020 7387 6617 fax: 020 73832545
Email: info@theatrotechnis.com website: www.theatrotechnis.com

Camden People’s Theatre present Stand Up and Down
A man tries to get out of a personal predicament by going into comedy. Things go well for a while – but soon he’s finding it harder to make people laugh. Might this be to do with something inside himself? At a drop-in centre for people with psychological problems, he starts to see himself and society in a different way…
The Stand Up and Down raises awareness of mental health as a social issue. One in four people will be affected by psychological problems at some point in their life. Des Marshall writer, Harry Meacher director sees theatre as a creative way of addressing these concerns.
Tue 9 Jun 2015 – Sun 21 Jun 2015, 7.30pm and 4pm on Sundays at Camden People’s Theatre, 58 – 60 Hampstead Road, NW1 2PY, Tickets: £12 / 10.
Box Office – 0207 419 4841 www.cptheatre.co.uk

Courses at Maiden Lane Community Centre
Presents two new courses
Create a website with WordPress
Thursdays 10.00 – 11.45am 30th April to 16th July
Computing for beginners
Thursdays 1.00 – 3.00pm 30th April to 16th July
Maiden Lane Community Centre, 156 St Pauls Crescent, NW1 9XZ.
Register now for a free place Tel: 0207 267 9586

VCC Volunteer Management Training
Dealing With Difficult Situations With Volunteers and is for those of you who have the basics, but worry about handling tricky or uncomfortable situations with volunteers. This is also a half-day course on Thursday 21st May and you can book via eventbrite here.
Five free early-bird tickets for organisations that involve volunteers in Camden, and £59+bf for everyone else.

Learn to Build a Website
Free introductory sessions at West Euston Partnership or St Luke’s Community Centre. Various dates in May, June. Contact Jed Keenan on 07950963069 or email jed.keenan@aliteracyprogramme.org. Further information and booking at www.eliteracyprogramme.org

Mental health engagement event
This session has been designed to bring together refugee women’s projects with mainstream women’s groups. The first part of the session will be dedicated to examining current issues faced by refugee women and innovative solutions, with a presentation by Middlesex University’s Elena Vacchelli on support for refugee women.
13th of May 2014 1.30pm-5.00pm A venue in Islington to be confirmed.
We can cover the travel costs of refugee and asylum-seeking women.
For further information or bookings, please call / email Alexandra Ceriu at alexandra@evelynoldfield.co.uk 0207 697 4105.

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

Decentralise in Camden
The Camden Climate Change Alliance will be hosting a half day event on Thursday 21 May – ‘Decentralise In Camden’ – to bring together local organisations who are interested in understanding and contributing to Camden’s vision for decentralised energy networks. With knowledgeable speakers and case studies, the event will provide an opportunity for attendees to understand the benefits of implementing or connecting to an energy network, to learn about the various projects delivered to date and most importantly, what will be going on in Camden in over the coming years.
If your organisation would be interested in finding out more about the ‘Decentralise in Camden’ event, register your interest by emailing camdencca@camden.gov.uk and we’ll keep you updated.

Big Advice Day, June 16th, London – completely free 1:1 advice sessions with expert advisors
Big Advice Day is a day of free support for small charities as part of Small Charity Week 2015. The day consists of 1:1 hour long sessions with expert advisors; you choose the topics you’re interested in and we’ll match you to suitable advisors. We have advisors with expertise across a whole range of subjects
The day is completely free to attend includes refreshments. You can attend in person or access advice via phone or Skype. Those attending on the day will also benefit from a range of free workshops.
If you would like to attend Big Advice Day and you are a registered charity with a turnover of under £1.5m per year then sign up here by 18th May.

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

JOBS AND VOLUNTEERS

Minding the Gap service: Young People’s Worker
12-18 month fixed term contract
We are seeking eight young people with exceptional personal skills and high motivation to be part of delivering a new health and wellbeing service being developed for 16-24 year olds in Camden
The Brandon Centre and The Anna Freud Centre are part of a unique partnership between leading providers and young people in Camden to provide a holistic, integrated service where young people can go for mental health support and practical advice, and also get help accessing other services. Managed by Catch22, the service includes a new youth base for young people on Finchley Road, co-designed with young people, and also two outreach teams of Young People’s Workers operating out of this youth base and in the community. This will be available for all young people in Camden, but will particularly reach out to young people who do not readily engage with services.
Closing date for applications: 5pm on 19th May 2015. To apply, please send a cover letter and a detailed CV to either admin@brandoncentre.org.uk or to vacancy@annafreud.org.
Provisional interview date: 5th June 2015.
You can download a job description at either www.annafreud.org/vacancies or www.brandoncentre.org.uk. If you require further information, please contact Geoffrey Baruch, Director of the Brandon Centre on 020 7267 4792 or Peter Fuggle, Head of Programme for Clinical Services of the Anna Freud Centre on 020 7794 2313.

Kentish Town Community Centre is looking for an inspiring Chair of Trustees
Are you looking for a new challenge? Have you got an interest in local issues?
Visit www.ktcc.org.uk/about/current-vacancies for further details on all KTCC opportunities and to apply.

The Soup Kitchen seeks Part-Time Welcomer/Security Person
The Soup Kitchen at the American International Church in the West End requires a Welcomer who also monitors the behaviour of our service users. A part-time post on up to 5 mornings a week. Salary depends on experience.
The ideal candidate will be able to deal firmly but kindly with a wide variety of vulnerable individuals. Some experience of security work highly desirable but not essential.
A rewarding job as part of a small friendly team helping the homeless.
Closing date: 31 May 2015
For more info and a job description, pls go to www.amchurch.co.uk/soup-kitchen/
To be considered, send your CV and a covering letter to Miranda Suit: soupkitchendirector@hotmail.com

Age UK Camden seeks Advice Services Manager
Local Government Scale PO2 £33,579-£36,186, plus 6% contributory pension.
The Advice and Advocacy Manager post is an exciting opportunity for someone with a background in areas such as welfare rights, advocacy or care management , combined with management experience.
The postholder will manage the Age UK Camden (AUC) information, advice, support and advocacy (IAA) services and team. AUC’s IAA services are delivered by a staff and volunteer team in person (from the office, outreach venues, home visits), by phone, and online.
You will: manage staff and, via a deputy, direct the recruitment and management of volunteers; ensure that AUC’s and IAA funders’ targets are met; manage caseloads to ensure equity and challenge within the team; report to multiple funders; uphold the Advice Quality Mark standards lead development and innovation in the IAA team including assisting with funding applications and tenders.
The post is based at our head office in Tavistock Square, Camden. AUC offers a contributory pension, and season ticket or bicycle loan facility.
For further details and an application form visit our website www.ageukcamden.org.uk or email jobs@ageukcamden.org.uk or telephone 020 7239 0400. No CVs, no agencies please.
Closing date: 9:00am Tuesday 26th May 2015 Interviews: Monday 1st June 2015

Mental Health Champions Project – Somali-speaking volunteers wanted
Voluntary Action Camden supports volunteer Mental Health Champions to engage with Camden-based BMER and faith communities. Key aims of the project are to (1) raise awareness of mental health and wellbeing either in the community or in the workplace (2) tackle stigma by starting conversations about mental health in a non-threatening way (e.g by using simple tools such as the Five Ways to Wellbeing) and (3) improve access to mental health services so that people receive help in a timely fashion. Our volunteer Mental Health Champions may be staff or volunteers from community organisations, or individuals interested in improving awareness about mental health.
We are very keen to recruit volunteers or community workers from the Somali community to join the Project. Contact VAC’s Mental Health Team on mentalhealthteam@vac.org.uk if you are interested or would like to know more.

The Mary Ward Legal Centre seeks a public legal education project volunteer
The Mary Ward Legal Centre is seeking a volunteer to help with its public legal education project on welfare benefits for community groups and residents in Camden. You would need to be able to commit to one day a week. You will help with preparing materials, attending presentations, making follow up phone calls as part of evaluation, and with general administration of the project.
You will get experience in these aspects as well as some general social security knowledge. You will need general IT & office skills and an interest in advice and welfare benefits, but no particular specialist knowledge.
The Mary Ward Legal Centre is based in Holborn, and you will be required to attend presentations at locations around Camden.
The Mary Ward Legal Centre will cover travel and lunch expenses.
To find out more contact Alban Hawksworth alban.hawksworth@marywardlegal.org.uk telephone 020 7269 5444

Onehouseing seeks Care Assistant – Extra Care for Older People
Full-time, part-time, flexible hours and night work £15,370 pa pro rata, Camden, London
We are currently recruiting Care Assistants to assist and enable our customers with day-to-day tasks and provide personal care for older people. You will be required to provide residents with the highest standard of care and support in accordance with their personally tailored plan.
We will offer you ongoing guidance and training, both formal and informal. You will work towards the Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care and will be part of a friendly, highly supportive team.
To apply please register with our careers website www.onehousinggroup.co.uk/careers – and upload a CV and supporting statement of no more than two pages, outlining how your skills and experience meet our needs.

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/

OFFERS, RESOURCES and ANNOUNCEMENTS

Nepal Appeal
On Saturday 25 April a massive 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck Nepal. It severely shook the lives of at least 5.3m people and left many homeless. Nepal’s major cities, including the capital Kathmandu, have been badly damaged and rural areas near the epicentre have been completely cut off by avalanches. Find out more and donate at the Disasters Emergency Committee website or at Pasa Puchah guthi UK or for blankets, tents and medicines you can drop your donation off at the Great Nepalese, Eversholt Street, NW1 (next to Euston station) from 11.00-2.30 Monday to Saturday.

NHS 111 and out-of-hours GP Services in north central London
NHS Clinical Commissioning Groups in north central London are working to improve the local NHS 111 service. This includes integrating the NHS 111 service and the GP out-of-hours services to enable them to work better.
We will be holding public engagement events across north central London as an opportunity to hear from you. All residents are invited to come along and share their views and experiences of existing services so that we can work together towards developing the best possible service.
There is no need to RSVP, please just turn up; we look forward to seeing you. If you have any questions about the events, please contact feedback@nelcsu.nhs.uk or call 020 3688 1615.
Stephens House and Gardens, 17 East End Road, Finchley, London N3 3QE
Monday, 18 May 2015, 18:00 – 20:00.
St Pancras Hospital Conference Hall, 4 St Pancras Way, London NW1 0PE
Wednesday, 13 May 2015, 18:00 – 20:00.

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.

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To get discounts on training, room hire and many more benefits click here to join Voluntary Action Camden

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If you have an item for the e-bulletin, please email it to Kevin Nunan, knunan@vac.org.uk with a note of which section you would like it to appear under.

Voluntary Action Camden e-Bulletin 1st May 2015

Highlights: Important Announcement from Camden Council; Nepal Appeal; NHS 111 and out-of-hours GP Services; Create Your Own Poster; Women and Health Art Exhibition; Big Lottery “Building Better Opportunities” Fund; Commissioning for Health Resources; launch of our new Care Act e-learning training platform; Trustee Training from VAC; Camden CCG’s Mental Health Investment Programme; Mayday Festival at Kentish Town City Farm; NSUN network for mental health; NHS 111/OOH – Online Survey; First Thursday London; Wellbeing Workshop for Carers; plus news, funding, events, jobs, volunteering and more.

NEWS

An Important Announcement from Camden Council and Invitation to 19th May Event and Future Consultation Information re Partnership with the Voluntary and Community Sector:
A message from Councillor Hai (Cabinet Member for Customers, Communities & Culture):
“Back in December we asked for input on what needs to change in the face of the significant financial challenges faced by the Council. By 2017, our funding from central government will have been cut in half and unfortunately that means change is unavoidable. Then, at the end of January, we met with a wider group of organisations, including organisations that do not receive financial support from the Council. This meeting further explored a number of the issues raised in December. Those at the meeting also told us that for next stage in the process, we should ‘put options on the table’. While things may have seemed quiet since then, we have been working to develop those options and we now wish to move to the next stage of the process. Over the coming weeks we will be running a number of engagement events where we will look at four options for the Council’s future core VCS investment strategy and how they meet our aspirations of a simpler, more strategic relationship that is focussed around the delivery of the Camden Plan.
The options are set across a pretty broad range – from the radical to the status quo (though all will involve a reduction in the total funding envelope). However we are not simply engaging in a consultation process on the options. We want to do more work on the options with you, so it is inevitable that they will change during the engagement process.”
The first event which is part of this consultation process will take place on 19th May from 10am till 12.30pm in the Macmillan Hall, Senate House, Malet Street, London, WC1E 7HU.
This is an important consultation and engagement event which will be presenting the different options and models we are currently looking at in regards to the new CTS (Communities and Third Sector) funding programme. We are particularly keen to have both funded and unfunded groups’ present at all upcoming consultations meetings, so please forward this onto other organisations currently unfunded by the Council who would be interested in attending.
If you would like to attend the upcoming consultation, require further information or if you wish to access the full version of Councillor Hai’s message please email, noor.al-baddawy@camden.gov.uk

Nepal Appeal
On Saturday 25 April a massive 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck Nepal. It severely shook the lives of at least 5.3m people and left many homeless. Nepal’s major cities, including the capital Kathmandu, have been badly damaged and rural areas near the epicentre have been completely cut off by avalanches. Find out more and donate at the Disasters Emergency Committee website or at Pasa Puchah guthi UK or for blankets, tents and medicines you can drop your donation off at the Great Nepalese, Eversholt Street, NW1 (next to Euston station) from 11.00-2.30 Monday to Saturday.

NHS 111 and out-of-hours GP Services in north central London
NHS Clinical Commissioning Groups in north central London are working to improve the local NHS 111 service. This includes integrating the NHS 111 service and the GP out-of-hours services to enable them to work better.
We will be holding public engagement events across north central London as an opportunity to hear from you. All residents are invited to come along and share their views and experiences of existing services so that we can work together towards developing the best possible service.
There is no need to RSVP, please just turn up; we look forward to seeing you. If you have any questions about the events, please contact feedback@nelcsu.nhs.uk or call 020 3688 1615.
Stephens House and Gardens, 17 East End Road, Finchley, London N3 3QE
Monday, 18 May 2015, 18:00 – 20:00.
St Pancras Hospital Conference Hall, 4 St Pancras Way, London NW1 0PE
Wednesday, 13 May 2015, 18:00 – 20:00.

Create Your Own Poster
The Movement Against Xenophobia are currently running the I am an Immigrant poster campaign around London. You can get involved and create your own poster here.

Women and Health Art Exhibition
Saturday 2nd – Monday 4th May. 11am to 6pm. 4 Carol Street, London NW1.

Big Lottery “Building Better Opportunities” Fund
This is a new fund for employability opening on 2 June 2015. It will be a two stage application process with very tight deadlines. (There will probably be a second round after that with a deadline in November.) This fund comes from the EU but it is not match funded – that is you receive the whole amount needed for the project.
It is not known how much organisations will be expected to apply for – but it will almost certainly be £500,000 or more and with a partnership including at least two other boroughs from the nine central London boroughs. It will be expected that partnerships will include the public sector and the VCS and could include businesses as well.
The priority groups are:
· Carers
· Economically Inactive BAME Women
· People with common mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression
· Some lone parents
· People over 24 with a long term health problems or a disability
· There will be funding for refugees at a later date
There will be a meeting for Camden VCS groups that would be interested in joining a partnership or partnerships to apply for this funding. The Council may well not have the resources to be the lead organisation in a partnership but staff are willing to facilitate the process. EU funded projects require a lot of work and very detailed reporting and this funding is probably best suited to organisations that already support residents into employment or significantly increase their chances of getting work.
There will be a meeting for organisations interested in applying for this funding on:
Thursday 28 May 2015 at 3.15 for a prompt start at 3.30. The meeting will end at 5pm.
Committee Room 4 in the Old Town Hall, Judd Street.
If you would like more information or wish to book a place please contact frances.connelly@camden.gov.uk or call 020 7974 6457.

North London roadshow event in partnership with Together North London and London Voluntary Service Council in Haringey on 20th May.
The event will aim to:
· Inform organisations about European Social Fund (ESF) and the Big Lottery Fund (BLF) programme including the role of the London Enterprise Panel (LEP) and its priorities, the role of the opt-In organisations, target client groups, terms of grants, activities and geography
· Highlight the potential opportunities for Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) delivery, the need for sub regional partnerships and the opportunities to develop sub regional partnerships and / or consortia
· Discuss the risks and requirements of the funding particularly for smaller organisations. Highlight issues around due diligence and financial requirements for ESF; monitoring and claims; cash flow; partnership readiness; evidencing your outcomes
· Let organisations know how they can be kept informed of what is happening and where they can they find out more.
This event compliments the previous event and is ideal for VCS organisations contemplating partnership working.
Further information and booking details are available here

National News
Charities Caught Supporting Political Party
Although every charity knows that they can engage in political activity so long as it is aimed at furthering the organisation’s charitable purposes, party political activity is not acceptable. So it came as a surpise when the Telegraph’s letter from 500 small businesses supporting the conservatives included four charities. The Charity Commission sprang into action writing to the charities concerned requiring them to ‘remedy the situation swiftly’ and a spokesman for the commission said: “Signing a letter in support of a political party is not a legitimate activity for a charity”. Surprisingly the conservative MPs who are usually very vocal in criticizing perceived political activity by charities (going as far as referring Oxfam to the Charity Commission over a tweet) have been completely silent. Full story at Third Sector.

Commissioning for Health Resources
There is a great deal of interest at the moment in how the VCS can support the wider health agenda. A number of useful resources are available:
The South East Commissioning Support Unit are developing case studies and good practice on their website. The case studies include VAC’s Volunteer Health Advocates amongst many others. Video case studies coming soon.
The Hear network have gathered a number of case studies to demonstrate innovative ways of tackling inequalities in health. Available on the London for All website.
Rights Info
have produced a useful and accessible guide to Human Rights and Health giving useful examples and case studies linked to the relevant convention articles.

The Training and Development Service at the London Borough of Camden are delighted to announce the launch of our new Care Act e-learning training platform, MeLearning.
The courses available through the platform have been especially designed for the needs of Adult Social Care practitioners. They provide you with the opportunity to strengthen your knowledge of the Care Act, and count towards your CPD
We recommend that you take full advantage of the wide variety of modules on separate aspects of the Care Act available through the platform, to ensure your knowledge is up to date. The courses can be accessed free of charge by all Council employees, as well as members of partner organisations.
To access the courses, visit
https://camden.melearning.university/course_centre
Upcoming safeguarding adults courses:
· Addressing Financial and Material Abuse – 14 May 2015
· Safeguarding and mate crime, hate crime and cuckooing – 14 May 2015
· Advanced application of the Mental Capacity Act – 15 May 2015
· Safeguarding adults awareness – theatre – 18 May 2015
· Minute taking for safeguarding enquiries – 9 June 2015
If you experience any problems, please do not hesitate to contact us at TDSOnline@camden.gov.uk
or by calling 020 7974 3701/ 020 7974 2821.
We also provide bespoke, on site Safeguarding adults awareness training sessions. If you have members of staff who require the Basic Awareness safeguarding adults course (Level II), our Safeguarding adults training officer, Jacqui Robertson, can come to your institution and deliver the session.
The Safeguarding adults, and MCA and DoLS training sessions are fully subsidized, and are offered free of charge to all members of staff who provide services for adults at risk in Camden.

Low Cost Trustee Training from VAC and Mary Ward Centre
14th May 2015 – 25th June 2015 (£71/£25) 7 Thursdays, 17:30-20:30
A short course for trustees / management committee members. See VAC events section for more details.

Camden CCG’s Mental Health Investment Programme is holding an informal event for mental health service users and carers. Wednesday 6 May 2015 15.00 – 17.00 at Camden Peoples’ Theatre
We would like to invite those who have inputted into the programme, or would like to in the future, to join us to celebrate our first year.
At the event, there will be an opportunity to find out more about the new mental health services and programmes that are available in Camden. You will also be able to learn how to become involved in the ongoing work of the programme.
There will be food and refreshments provided and a creative theatrical performance to enjoy.
As there are limited spaces please let us know if you would like to attend by emailing your name and any accessibility or dietary requirements to engagement@camdenccg.nhs.uk or call 020 3688 2034. You must RSVP in order to attend.

Mayday Festival at Kentish Town City Farm Sunday 3 May 1-4pm.
Rides, Face Painting, Bake Off, Barbecue, Live music. A chance to see the latest kids and piglets. More details at the Kentish Town City Farm website.

NSUN network for mental health
NSUN network for mental health is an independent, service-user-led charity that connects people with experience of mental health issues to give us a stronger voice in shaping policy and services. NSUN is currently recruiting experts to an alliance of Mental Health Advisors. You can view the NSUN manifesto on their website.

NHS 111/OOH – Online Survey
We would really like to hear your experience of using NHS 111 or Camden’s out of hours GP service. Please click on the following link if you would like to complete the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/NCL111_OOH
We are also holding some more stakeholder engagement events throughout May, which will give local patients the opportunity to discuss their experience with the existing services and hear more about the proposals for a new, integrated service. In Camden, the event will take place on Wednesday 13 May from 18.00 – 20.00 at St Pancras Hospital Conference Hall. There is a full list of the events, as well as directions to each event, on the Camden CCG 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 BBC has gathered links to it’s recent progammes on the NHS into one page.

First Thursday London
Developing a campaigning mindset Thursday, 7th May 2015, 6:00 – 8:00pm
This month sees us back at Camden Town Hall and welcoming Andrew Hadfield, Director and founder of Mavin Communications. From May’s First Thursday, you will learn how to
~ think, live and breathe like a campaigner
~ build a strategy from a single objective
~ integrate different channels towards this goal
~ how to measure success
Sign up at eventbrite to attend or join up through MeetUp.

Wellbeing Workshop for Carers
Do you provide unpaid support to someone who has a mental health problem, physical health needs, dementia, frailty or other disability? Come to a free workshop to find out what support is available for you.
Tuesday 12th May at 11am Camden Hub, 8 Fairhazel Gardens, NW6 3SG
~ Learn some simple everyday techniques to help improve your mental wellbeing
~ Access a range of free support: information, advice and advocacy, emotional support, leisure activities and support groups, breaks and respite, health checks. Opportunity to join the Camden Carers Network
~ Have the option of an hour’s mindfulness meditation to focus on yourself and your present
Refreshments provided. For more information or to book a place please contact Abigail Darton on 02072784437 or email abigail.darton@hcct.org.uk

Really Classical Relay
Tuesday 5th May. Doors open 6:00pm // Concert begins 7:30pm
St Marylebone Parish Church, 17 Marylebone Road, London NW1 5LT
Join us at the Camden Society’s Spring fundraiser for the Great Escape, our holiday for people with learning disabilities.
Tickets now on sale. General: £10 // Member: £8 // SU entry: £5 Contact 020 7485 8177 or admin@thecamdensociety.co.uk to book

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

Age Uk Camden, Hopscotch Asian Women’s Centre, Mary Ward Legal Centre, The Working Men’s College, IKWRO, One Housing, VAC, CRI, 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

FUNDING NEWS

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

Crowdfunding?
Don’t forget that there is a dedicated page on Spacehive just for Camden project. And set up costs are free to Camden groups. Find out more at Spacehive Camden.

The Origin Housing Community Grants Programme
The 2015/16 programme is now open, with the first deadline being Monday 29 June.
Everything you need to apply can be found online here: http://www.originhousing.org.uk/communitygrants.aspx
We welcome all applications for projects that will benefit our residents and customers, and fit into one or more of the following themes:
Building Stronger Communities
Gardening Food and Environmental
Celebrating Heritage
Origin anticipate spending all the budget in this first round. The deadline is 29 June.

Summerversity Contract Opportunities
Islington Council invites suitably experienced organisations to submit proposals to deliver high quality, engaging and innovative summer courses and activities for young people aged 13 + to be delivered as part of the Summerversity programme 2015.
Successful providers will be required to deliver free social, recreational and educational activities for young people aged 13+ providing opportunities for formal accreditation where appropriate. The aim of the programme is to engage young people in a range of stimulating courses and activities over their summer holiday that will develop their skills and interests, raise their ambitions and aspirations and expose them to the new experiences that will capture their imagination and creative ideas.
If you wish to apply for this opportunity please obtain an application form from isyp@islington.go.uk and return by 12 noon, 18 May 2015.
For an informal discussion about this opportunity please contact Luiza Mattausch on 020 7527 5947.

Community Awards from OneFamily
OneFamily have 15 awards of £5,000 & four awards of £25,000 available for community projects, charities and clubs to access. Last year we awarded £125,000 to 18 community projects and we were delighted to receive votes from 68,000 individuals who wanted to support projects either close to home or close to their heart. We’ve committed £5 million over the next 5 years to make a difference in communities.
Projects need to be nominated by one of our customers. One in 12 UK families holds a policy with us so community groups may already know of somebody who can nominate their project. Nomination close at 9am on 26 May before a public vote will determine the winners. Voting opens at 10am on 2 June and closes at midday on 29 June.
You can find some of our winners stories and further information on our website – https://foundation.onefamily.com/community-awards

Olswang Green Seed Fund 2015
Overall £34.2k – up to £3k per project – will go to creative environmental projects that have real social benefits and are based in *Camden* or *Reading*.
If you have won or applied before and are operating in these areas, consider re-applying. New applications are obviously welcome too. The deadline is midnight on 8th May 2015.
More detail here: www.projectdirt.com/olswangfund
You can view the winners from last year on www.projectdirt.com/olswang

Two New Grants from Locality
First Steps
First Steps gives small community groups the freedom to develop action plans to improve their neighbourhood.
First Steps areas will receive support to decide upon practical actions to make positive changes in their community.
The programme offers 115 communities the opportunity to work together to decide what they do and don’t like and what can be changed.
Click http://mycommunity.org.uk/programme/first-steps/ for more details.
Community Economic Development
The Community Economic Development (CED) programme is a new initiative designed for local community groups and organisations who want to take a lead in shaping their economies for the benefit of local communities.
If you belong to a community that wants to work towards seeing real economic change in your area – whether this is in food, housing, finance, energy or any other local economic opportunities – then the CED programme will set you on the right path.
The programme provides specialist support, advice and grant funding to help residents, local business and public sector organisations to work together to develop the best ideas to strengthen the local economy.
Click http://mycommunity.org.uk/programme/community-economic-development/ for more details.

FreeSport offers grants up to £1500
FreeSport – part of the Mayor of London’s sport legacy programme – enables organisations and community groups of all shapes and sizes to apply for grants of up to £1,500 to run free sports activities for Londoners.
The next round of funding opens on 15 April 2015.
FreeSport is about inspiring people of all ages and abilities to try a new sport or activity, but importantly, it’s also about inspiring organisations who may never have done anything sporty before, and to spark their interest to run regular sport sessions. In previous FreeSport rounds we have funded a huge variety of activities ranging from traditional sports like football or rugby through to circus skills and ‘chairobics’
Applications are straight forward and we have lots of information to guide applicants who may never have applied for a grant before.
For more information on the FreeSport grant, you can visit the website which is: www.London.gov.uk/freesport

London Catalyst and the Hospital Saturday Fund have come together to launch a new ‘Partners for Health’ grant programme.
Grants of up to £10,000 will be considered for social action projects tackling the effects of poverty and health inequalities in London. ‘Partners for Health’ is open to community groups that can demonstrate a thoughtful response to local needs and partnership with an expert health agency. There is a particular interest in the areas of mental health and addiction.
The closing date for receipt of completed applications is Friday 29 May 2015. The application form and guidance can be downloaded at www.londoncatalyst.org.uk/grants/ – click on the ‘Partners For Health’ link in the opening paragraph of our Special Interest Grants.

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

VAC EVENTS

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

Low Cost Trustee Training from VAC and Mary Ward Centre
There are a few places left on Governance In The Voluntary And Community Sector starting in May.
14th May 2015 – 25th June 2015 (£71/£25) 7 Thursdays, 17:30-20:30
A short course for trustees / management committee members or anybody who is interested in developing the knowledge and skills required to be a member of the committee of a voluntary or community sector organisation.
* Introduction to the Role of a Trustee/Managemet Committee Member
* Developing Governance – Responsibilities and Accountability
* Governance – Strategy and Structures
Find out more and book at the Mary Ward Centre website. For questions about the course contact Kevin Nunan.

Mental health courses and workshops from VAC
To book your place, 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 based in Camden or which serve Camden residents. Places are limited on each course to a maximum of two people per organisation.
If you have any queries about our training, please contact us on our new email address: mentalhealthteam@vac.org.uk.

Mental Health First Aid Training Thursday 4th June and Thursday 11th June 2015
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a nationally approved two-day course, designed for anyone without specialist mental health training. The course promotes awareness of mental health issues, and trains non-mental health professionals to recognise those affected by mental health problems and to offer initial help and guidance towards professional support. This can lead to improved outcomes for those affected, their families, friends, colleagues and employers.
Participants will receive a copy of the MHFA manual and certificate on completion of the course.
To book your place please go to: https://vac.org.uk/event/mental-health-first-aid-mhfa-2-day-course/
If you have any questions please contact the Mental Health Team on: mentalhealthteam@vac.org.uk or call 020 7284 6550.

New VAC Training Programme

  • 6th May: Project Management Starter
  • 14th May: Governance/Trustees 6 evenings

OTHER EVENTS

Train to Campaign offers low-cost, high quality campaign training workshops in central London to help you make a real impact.
Campaigning Essentials is a half day introduction to the core principles of effective campaigning. Whether you are new to campaigning, or have never had formal training in the basic building blocks of a good campaign, this workshop is for you.
Campaigning Essentials
Wed 3rd June 2015 | 1.15 – 5pm
Other upcoming workshops:
Perfect your campaign elevator pitch
Tue 23rd June 2015 | 1.15 – 5pm
How to influence and lobby Parliament
Thu 16th July 2015 | 1.15 – 5pm
For information about other upcoming campaign training workshops visit www.traintocampaign.london

St Pancras Rehabilitation Unit Open Day & Camden Community Services Disability Awareness Event
Tuesday 26th May 2015 between 1:30pm and 4:30pm, St Pancras Hospital South Wing
St Pancras Rehabilitation Unit acts as a pivotal part of the transition and support for patients in their recovery journey back home from UCLH, the Royal Free, the Whittington and other acute hospitals. We are keen that the unit is seen as a local resource which our whole community is proud and as such I am delighted to invite you to our joint event on Tuesday the 26th May 2015.
This is an opportunity for you, colleagues and members of the local community to learn more about the first class rehabilitation our clinical staff provide at St Pancras Rehabilitation Unit. If you are free to attend please reply to Kathryn Ford, lead for Equalities and Diversities in Camden email kathrynford@nhs.net or telephone 020 3317 3776 by 7th May 2015 so she can confirm catering arrangements.

SOAS Concert Series and World Music Summer School
Full Concert series details available here. Full course programme and how to apply on the SOAS website.
Ensemble Alash Monday 11 May 2015
Astonishing music from the heart of Siberia

St Mungo’s Broadway Camden Mental Health Services invites you to Mental Health Awareness Week Festival – In the Park
Friday 15 May 2015, 11:30am- 4pm, 12 Camley St, London N1C 4PW
RSVP: matthew.blakemore@mungosbroadway.org.uk
For more info contact Salina on 07739 195 333 or Matt on 07736 886 959
BBQ, music, comedy, speakers, stalls and more
Alcohol free event. Open to everyone

Camden Intergenerational Week – 9 to 17 May
Camden Intergenerational Week 2015 brings all ages together for a week of fun, free events to encourage and celebrate interaction between young and old.
From 9 to 17 May 2015 events are being held by organisations and groups across the borough, to bring people of all ages together.
There will be something for everyone – from dancing and discussion, bingo and knitting, crafts and gardening, singing and films. There will be performances, workshops and activities that young and old can enjoy together.
The ‘mini-festival’ is being organised by residents and local partner organisations including Age UK Camden, Haverstock School and Camden Community Nurseries, with the aim of creating positive connections between generations in Camden.
Further information and full listings of the 26 intergenerational events happening during the Week can be found on the project website – www.camdenintergenerationalweek2015.org.uk. or call: 020 7974 2810
Listings of the events which are open to the public can also be found on the Camden Council website.

Improving access to urgent care in Camden
Camden Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is working with Barnet, Enfield, Haringey and Islington CCG’s to integrate the existing urgent care services across north central London. By integrating the services provided by the NHS 111 telephone service and GP out-of-hours across the five boroughs, patients will more easily be able to access urgent care. This will mean they receive the best care, from the best person, in the right place, at the right time.
There is no need to RSVP, please just turn up; we look forward to seeing you. If you have any questions about the events, please contact feedback@nelcsu.nhs.uk
or call 020 3688 1615.
Stephens House and Gardens, 17 East End Road, Finchley, London N3 3QE
Monday, 18 May 2015, 18:00 – 20:00.
St Pancras Hospital Conference Hall, 4 St Pancras Way, London NW1 0PE
Wednesday, 13 May 2015, 18:00 – 20:00.

Theatro Technis proudly presents latest production “OH, DEMOCRACY”
A musical adaptation of Aristophanes’ “THE KNIGHTS” by Keith Murphy, George Eugeniou and Marco Aponte.
Back in 424 BC, when ARISTOPHANES wrote “THE KNIGHTS” it poked fun at the political leaders in Athens, the like of leather merchant Kleon, who put his own personal gains above the city’s interest. Now almost 2500 years later it is as relevant as ever.
Opens: 26th May 7.30pm
The play runs until 6th June, Sunday Matinees 5pm, no shows on Mondays
Tickets: £10/concession £8
26 Crowndale Road London NW1 1TT
Tel: 020 7387 6617 fax: 020 73832545
Email: info@theatrotechnis.com website: www.theatrotechnis.com

Camden People’s Theatre present Stand Up and Down
A man tries to get out of a personal predicament by going into comedy. Things go well for a while – but soon he’s finding it harder to make people laugh. Might this be to do with something inside himself? At a drop-in centre for people with psychological problems, he starts to see himself and society in a different way…
The Stand Up and Down raises awareness of mental health as a social issue. One in four people will be affected by psychological problems at some point in their life. Des Marshall writer, Harry Meacher director sees theatre as a creative way of addressing these concerns.
Tue 9 Jun 2015 – Sun 21 Jun 2015, 7.30pm and 4pm on Sundays at Camden People’s Theatre, 58 – 60 Hampstead Road, NW1 2PY, Tickets: £12 / 10.
Box Office – 0207 419 4841 www.cptheatre.co.uk

Courses at Maiden Lane Community Centre
Presents two new courses
Create a website with WordPress
Thursdays 10.00 – 11.45am 30th April to 16th July
Computing for beginners
Thursdays 1.00 – 3.00pm 30th April to 16th July
Maiden Lane Community Centre, 156 St Pauls Crescent, NW1 9XZ.
Register now for a free place Tel: 0207 267 9586

VCC Volunteer Management Training
Dealing With Difficult Situations With Volunteers and is for those of you who have the basics, but worry about handling tricky or uncomfortable situations with volunteers. This is also a half-day course on Thursday 21st May and you can book via eventbrite here.
Five free early-bird tickets for organisations that involve volunteers in Camden, and £59+bf for everyone else.

Learn to Build a Website
Free introductory sessions at West Euston Partnership or St Luke’s Community Centre. Various dates in May, June. Contact Jed Keenan on 07950963069 or email jed.keenan@aliteracyprogramme.org. Further information and booking at www.eliteracyprogramme.org

Mental health engagement event
This session has been designed to bring together refugee women’s projects with mainstream women’s groups. The first part of the session will be dedicated to examining current issues faced by refugee women and innovative solutions, with a presentation by Middlesex University’s Elena Vacchelli on support for refugee women.
13th of May 2014 1.30pm-5.00pm A venue in Islington to be confirmed.
We can cover the travel costs of refugee and asylum-seeking women.
For further information or bookings, please call / email Alexandra Ceriu at alexandra@evelynoldfield.co.uk 0207 697 4105.

Camden Deaf Awareness day – all welcome
Tuesday 12 May 2015, 9am to 4pm Camden Centre, Bidborough Street, London, WC1H 9AU
It’s the first Camden Deaf Awareness Day. Explore the challenges faced by deaf and hard of hearing residents and find out more about the support available across the borough. It’s a chance to exchange stories, experiences and ideas and look at how we can work together better. The day will include VIP speakers, a question time session and stalls from local and national organisations.
Communication support will be provided including BSL interpreters, Lip speakers, a Palantypist and T-Loop.
For more information or if you wish to volunteer on the day please contact Asif Iqbal, at asif.iqbal@camden.gov.uk
or call 020 7974 4444. Typetalk: 18001 020 7974 4444 TexBox: 020 7974 6866

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

Decentralise in Camden
The Camden Climate Change Alliance will be hosting a half day event on Thursday 21 May – ‘Decentralise In Camden’ – to bring together local organisations who are interested in understanding and contributing to Camden’s vision for decentralised energy networks. With knowledgeable speakers and case studies, the event will provide an opportunity for attendees to understand the benefits of implementing or connecting to an energy network, to learn about the various projects delivered to date and most importantly, what will be going on in Camden in over the coming years.
If your organisation would be interested in finding out more about the ‘Decentralise in Camden’ event, register your interest by emailing camdencca@camden.gov.uk and we’ll keep you updated.

Big Advice Day, June 16th, London – completely free 1:1 advice sessions with expert advisors
Big Advice Day is a day of free support for small charities as part of Small Charity Week 2015. The day consists of 1:1 hour long sessions with expert advisors; you choose the topics you’re interested in and we’ll match you to suitable advisors. We have advisors with expertise across a whole range of subjects
The day is completely free to attend includes refreshments. You can attend in person or access advice via phone or Skype. Those attending on the day will also benefit from a range of free workshops.
If you would like to attend Big Advice Day and you are a registered charity with a turnover of under £1.5m per year then sign up here by 18th May.

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

JOBS AND VOLUNTEERS

Age UK Camden seeks Advice Services Manager
Local Government Scale PO2 £33,579-£36,186, plus 6% contributory pension.
The Advice and Advocacy Manager post is an exciting opportunity for someone with a background in areas such as welfare rights, advocacy or care management , combined with management experience.
The postholder will manage the Age UK Camden (AUC) information, advice, support and advocacy (IAA) services and team. AUC’s IAA services are delivered by a staff and volunteer team in person (from the office, outreach venues, home visits), by phone, and online.
You will: manage staff and, via a deputy, direct the recruitment and management of volunteers; ensure that AUC’s and IAA funders’ targets are met; manage caseloads to ensure equity and challenge within the team; report to multiple funders; uphold the Advice Quality Mark standards lead development and innovation in the IAA team including assisting with funding applications and tenders.
The post is based at our head office in Tavistock Square, Camden. AUC offers a contributory pension, and season ticket or bicycle loan facility.
For further details and an application form visit our website www.ageukcamden.org.uk or email jobs@ageukcamden.org.uk or telephone 020 7239 0400. No CVs, no agencies please.
Closing date: 9:00am Tuesday 26th May 2015 Interviews: Monday 1st June 2015

Hopscotch Asian Women’s Centre seeks Care worker
Hopscotch Asian Women’s Centre is a well established voluntary organisation that provides a range of services to South Asian women in and around Camden. We provide information and advice, support and advocacy, education and training and a range of services to children and families.
Hopscotch is currently recruiting. Care Workers
Part time, flexible hours and night work. Permanent
Hopscotch is looking to recruit male and female care workers to join our Homecare team.
Applicants must have an interest in adult social care and a willingness to provide personal care and assistance. A basic level of spoken and written English is required. The ability to speak Bengali, Somali, Urdu or another community language is desirable.
No qualifications are required as you will receive free accredited training (NVQ 2 in Health & Social Care), as well as on the job training and support once employed. DBS checks will be paid for by Hopscotch.
For an informal discussion about the post, please contact Melissa McClelland Homecare Manager. For all other details and an application form, please contact Ruksana:
Tel: 020 7388 8198 E-mail: info@hopscotchawc.org.uk

Mental Health Champions Project – Somali-speaking volunteers wanted
Voluntary Action Camden supports volunteer Mental Health Champions to engage with Camden-based BMER and faith communities. Key aims of the project are to (1) raise awareness of mental health and wellbeing either in the community or in the workplace (2) tackle stigma by starting conversations about mental health in a non-threatening way (e.g by using simple tools such as the Five Ways to Wellbeing) and (3) improve access to mental health services so that people receive help in a timely fashion. Our volunteer Mental Health Champions may be staff or volunteers from community organisations, or individuals interested in improving awareness about mental health.
We are very keen to recruit volunteers or community workers from the Somali community to join the Project. Contact VAC’s Mental Health Team on mentalhealthteam@vac.org.uk if you are interested or would like to know more.

The Mary Ward Legal Centre seeks a public legal education project volunteer
The Mary Ward Legal Centre is seeking a volunteer to help with its public legal education project on welfare benefits for community groups and residents in Camden. You would need to be able to commit to one day a week. You will help with preparing materials, attending presentations, making follow up phone calls as part of evaluation, and with general administration of the project.
You will get experience in these aspects as well as some general social security knowledge. You will need general IT & office skills and an interest in advice and welfare benefits, but no particular specialist knowledge.
The Mary Ward Legal Centre is based in Holborn, and you will be required to attend presentations at locations around Camden.
The Mary Ward Legal Centre will cover travel and lunch expenses.
To find out more contact Alban Hawksworth alban.hawksworth@marywardlegal.org.uk telephone 020 7269 5444

Primary Care Navigators Administration Officer
£23,658 – £25,620pa (Sc5) pro rata 14 hour per week £9,463.20 – £10,248pa, contributory pension, fixed term till 31 March 2017.
Following a tender, Age UK Camden with its partner Camden Carers Service is delivering the exciting new Primary Care Navigation Service for Camden Clinical Commissioning Group until March 2017. The six Navigators will support those aged 60 + with long term conditions to access timely care and community support services.
The successful candidate will provide administrative support to the Care Navigators Team. The post holder in conjunction with the manager will implement administrative system to support the Service including maintaining the Client database systems and contribute to efficient and effective administrative processes across the Care Navigation Service.
The post is based at Age UK Camden head office in Camden and some travel around the borough is required. AUC offers a contributory pension, and season ticket or bicycle loan facility. For further details and an application form visit our website www.ageukcamden.org.uk or email jobs@ageukcamden.org.uk or telephone 020 7239 0400. No CVs, no agencies please.
Closing date: 9am, Tuesday 5th May 2015. Interviews: Monday 11th May 2015

The Working Men’s College have a number of vacancies
E-Learning Development Manager Salary £32,142 – £36,162 per annum
Get into Learning – Curriculum Manager (0.6 f.t.e) Salary £32,142 – £36,162 per annum pro rata
Business and ICT – Curriculum Manager Salary £32,142 – £36,162 per annum
Fashion and Craft – Curriculum Manager Salary £32,142 – £36,162 per annum
Art and Design – Curriculum Manager Salary £32,142 – £36,162 per annum
Closing date for all the above posts is 12 noon on Friday 8th May 2015.
Interviews for the above posts will be held week commencing 18th May.
Head of Human Resources (0.5 f.t.e.) Up to £50,000 per annum pro-rata for 0.5 f.t.e. post
Closing date for the Head of HR post is 12 noon on Thursday 7th May 2015.
Interviews for the Head of HR will be held on 14th May.
For further details and to apply for one of the above posts please submit your application via our website: www.wmcollege.ac.uk or contact Jo Turner on: 0207 255 4728 or via email: JoT@wmcollege.ac.uk

IKWRO seeks Senior Training Officer
Senior Training Officer (4.5 days/week), Salary £30,928 (pro-rata)
The Iranian and Kurdish Women’s Rights Organisation (IKWRO) is a registered charity (number 1104550) which supports Middle Eastern and Afghan women and girls living in the UK who are facing “honour” based violence, forced marriage, female genital mutilation and domestic violence.
IKWRO’s services include advice, advocacy, information and counselling support to individual women and girls; training programmes for professionals, women and girls and community members; specific services such as ESOL, volunteering; campaigning for better laws and policies to protect women’s rights and social events.
As Senior Training Officer, you will take the lead to develop targeted training materials, deliver training to a wide range of audience, coordinate and supervise training programmes and coordinate and run partnership work with several other partners in the UK and Europe.
Above post is open to women only (Exemption under the Equality Act 2010 Schedule 9, Part 1).
For an application pack please send an email to jobs@ikwro.org.uk, or visit our website at www.ikwro.org.uk.
Closing date: 06 May 2015

Age UK Camden seeks Advocacy Officer
Salary: SO1, SCP 29, £28,845pa 35 hours per week, Fixed Term Contract for 6 months
Personalisation Support In Camden (PSIC) is a subsidiary of Age UK Camden. It provides Direct Payments support to disabled people under the age of 65 in Camden.
The Advocacy Officer will be working with disabled people under the age of 65 who currently receive financial support from the Independent Living Fund. Your role will be to provide advocacy to this group of service users when they face reassessment of their care needs following the closure of the fund.
If you are interested in the above vacancy please see the application pack including the full job description and person specification at the following link or on the website www.ageukcamden.org.uk or email recruitment@ageukcamden.org.uk.
The closing date for receipt of completed application forms is 9am on 5th May 2015 and interviews will be held on Thursday, 7th May 2015.

Onehouseing seeks Care Assistant – Extra Care for Older People
Full-time, part-time, flexible hours and night work £15,370 pa pro rata, Camden, London
We are currently recruiting Care Assistants to assist and enable our customers with day-to-day tasks and provide personal care for older people. You will be required to provide residents with the highest standard of care and support in accordance with their personally tailored plan.
We will offer you ongoing guidance and training, both formal and informal. You will work towards the Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care and will be part of a friendly, highly supportive team.
To apply please register with our careers website www.onehousinggroup.co.uk/careers – and upload a CV and supporting statement of no more than two pages, outlining how your skills and experience meet our needs.

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/

OFFERS, RESOURCES and ANNOUNCEMENTS

New Camden Clinical Commissioning Group mental health service user and carer working group.
The group, led two project support managers with lived experience of the mental health system, will work to put service-user and carer opinions, thoughts and ideas at the centre of mental health services in Camden.
The working group will meet monthly – as well as there being opportunities for members to sit on working groups of various projects within the CCG. The working group itself will help to define its role, but some ideas for the kind of things they will do are:
· Organise events, research and outreach to engage the wider service-user and carer community
· Be part of developing projects on mental health in the CCG
· Raise concerns, worries or risks about mental health services in Camden – and work with us to address these.
If this sounds like something you might be interested please email Lindsay Riddoch (Project Support manager at Camden CCG) on mhinvolvement@camdenccg.nhs.uk. In your email please include your name and contact details – Lindsay will then get in touch with more information about the working group.”

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.

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To get discounts on training, room hire and many more benefits click here to join Voluntary Action Camden

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If you have an item for the e-bulletin, please email it to Kevin Nunan, knunan@vac.org.uk with a note of which section you would like it to appear under.

Voluntary Action Camden e-Bulletin 24th April 2015

Highlights: Camden Intergeneration Week 2015; How to Demonstrate Your Impact; Mental Health Champions Project – Somali-speaking volunteers wanted; BMER Mental Health Information and Netowkring Session; The Tea & Tour Exhibition & Open Day; Small Office Available at VAC; OurCamden membership; Mental Health Awareness Week Festival; Low Cost Trustee Training; Free Swimming for the Over 60s; mental health service user and carer working group; SOAS Concert Series and World Music Summer School; St Pancras Rehabilitation Unit Open Day; Women and Health Art Exhibition; NHS 111 and out-of-hours GP Services; plus news, funding, events, jobs, volunteering and more.

NEWS

Camden Intergeneration Week 2015
A partnership of about 40 Camden groups and organisations, large and small, are organising intergenerational activities and events from 9 to 17 May 2015.
Further information and full listings of the 26 intergenerational events happening during the Week can be found on the project website – www.camdenintergenerationalweek2015.org.uk.
Listings of the events which are open to the public can also be found on the Camden Council website.

How to Demonstrate Your Impact – places still available
This course will give you an overview of how to collect and present evidence on your organisation’s impact using quantitative and qualitative methods. It will give examples of best practice for collecting and presenting data. It will also inform you on how you can share the knowledge you have of the local community so that it will be considered as part of the Joint Strategic Needs Assessment, which informs decisions about local services.
At Voluntary Action Camden, 293 – 299 Kentish Town Road, London NW5 2TJ
Thursday 30th April 2015 for 9:30am to 12:30pm
To book please contact Ricky Singh Tokhi or Monica Crooks on acharles@vac.org.uk or call on 020 7284 6553

Mental Health Champions Project – Somali-speaking volunteers wanted
Voluntary Action Camden supports volunteer Mental Health Champions to engage with Camden-based BMER and faith communities. Key aims of the project are to (1) raise awareness of mental health and wellbeing either in the community or in the workplace (2) tackle stigma by starting conversations about mental health in a non-threatening way (e.g by using simple tools such as the Five Ways to Wellbeing) and (3) improve access to mental health services so that people receive help in a timely fashion. Our volunteer Mental Health Champions may be staff or volunteers from community organisations, or individuals interested in improving awareness about mental health.
We are very keen to recruit volunteers or community workers from the Somali community to join the Project. Contact VAC’s Mental Health Team on mentalhealthteam@vac.org.uk if you are interested or would like to know more.
BMER Mental Health Information and Netowkring Session – Mon 27th April
Reminder – the next BMER Mental Health Information and Networking Session will take place at the Roundhouse on Monday 27th April (2.30pm – 5.00pm). Confirm your attendance to Maureen Brewster on mbrewster@vac.org.uk.

The Tea & Tour Exhibition & Open Day
• The most educational and thought-provoking Islamic Exhibition in the UK
• Guided tours of one of the biggest Mosques in London
• Role of the Mosque within the Community
• Multimedia presentations, videos & Islamic antiques
• Refreshments and food from the Muslim World
• Your opportunity to ask questions about ANYTHING on Islam
30th April 2015 from 11am to 9pm
Holborn Muslim Community & Welfare Association,
33 Brookes Court, Baldwins Gardens, London EC1N 7RR
Biscuits and yummy snacks will be served and a guided tour provided. We will also have a grand exhibition on the Life of Muhammad on display.

Small Office Available at VAC
VAC has a self contained office to let (space for 2 or 3 desks). Heating/cooling, wifi etc included. It is a good sized office (12 square metres / 120 square feet) located in VAC’s building in Kentish Town with excellent transport links to all parts of Camden borough.
£550 per month. Contact Kevin Nunan knunan@vac.org.uk

Have you got a product or service you are looking to sell?
At OurCamden we are very keen to support local charities and social enterprises in growing their business. We believe that we can help.
If you’ve got a service or product that you are looking to sell to individuals, then why not do a special offer for OurCamden members?
It could be discount of hire of your space for a party, a special deal on catering from your food service, or your care service…. whatever it is, we are sure we can help you promote your business idea and gain new customers.
We now have over 600 members. That’s 600 people who get our fortnightly email newsletter. That’s potentially 600 new customers.
And that’s not all. We’ll promote your product or service on Facebook and Twitter as well as give you a listing on our members deals directory. It’s free.
Email members@ourcamden.org or give us a call on 0203 488 0020

National News
Voluntary Sector and Health – Findings of Major Study Published
NAVCA has published the findings of the Health and Care Voluntary Sector Survey, the largest charity survey of 2014. The findings show that local health bodies need to do more to engage with the local voluntary sector.
Key findings:
Joint Strategic Needs Assessments
Only 35% said they had been involved whilst 54% had not.
Health & Wellbeing boards
There were similar findings for health and wellbeing boards. 32% said they were able to influence their health and wellbeing board(s) and 53% had not been able to.
Clinical Commissioning Groups
The survey found that CCGs are more likely to engage with charities. 51% agreed that the CCG had engaged with their organisation whilst 40% disagreed.
National initiatives
The survey asked whether national initiatives had a positive effect. Change for Life received the best rating for making a positive difference.
Manifesto Roundup

The Guardian has a summary of what the parties have promised the voluntary sector in their manifestos.

St Mungo’s Broadway Camden Mental Health Services invites you to Mental Health Awareness Week Festival – In the Park
Friday 15 May 2015, 11:30am- 4pm, 12 Camley St, London N1C 4PW
RSVP: matthew.blakemore@mungosbroadway.org.uk
For more info contact Salina on 07739 195 333 or Matt on 07736 886 959
BBQ, music, comedy, speakers, stalls and more
Alcohol free event. Open to everyone

Low Cost Trustee Training from VAC and Mary Ward Centre
There are a few places left on Governance In The Voluntary And Community Sector starting in May.
14th May 2015 – 25th June 2015 (£71/£25) 7 Thursdays, 17:30-20:30
A short course for trustees / management committee members or anybody who is interested in developing the knowledge and skills required to be a member of the committee of a voluntary or community sector organisation.
* Introduction to the Role of a Trustee/Managemet Committee Member
* Developing Governance – Responsibilities and Accountability
* Governance – Strategy and Structures
Find out more and book at the Mary Ward Centre website. For questions about the course contact Kevin Nunan.

Free Swimming for the Over 60s
You can swim for free weekdays from 7am to 12 noon at Kentish Town Sports Centre, Oasis Sports Centre, Pancras Square Leisure Centre and Swiss Cottage Leisure Centre.
To find out more visit
camden.gov.uk/swimming
Pancras Square Leisure Centre, 5 Pancras Square, N1C 4AG
Swiss Cottage Leisure Centre, Adelaide Road, NW3 3NF
Oasis Sports Centre, Endell Street, WC2H 9AG
Kentish Town Sports Centre, Grafton Road, NW5 3DU
Health Walks
Free weekly walks to explore your local area and boost your energy.
Walks starting from Euston, Queen’s Crescent, Granary Square and Hampstead Heath.
For details visit
camden.gov.uk/activehealth

New Camden Clinical Commissioning Group mental health service user and carer working group.
The group, led two project support managers with lived experience of the mental health system, will work to put service-user and carer opinions, thoughts and ideas at the centre of mental health services in Camden.
The working group will meet monthly – as well as there being opportunities for members to sit on working groups of various projects within the CCG. The working group itself will help to define its role, but some ideas for the kind of things they will do are:
· Organise events, research and outreach to engage the wider service-user and carer community
· Be part of developing projects on mental health in the CCG
· Raise concerns, worries or risks about mental health services in Camden – and work with us to address these.
If this sounds like something you might be interested please email Lindsay Riddoch (Project Support manager at Camden CCG) on mhinvolvement@camdenccg.nhs.uk. In your email please include your name and contact details – Lindsay will then get in touch with more information about the working group.”

SOAS Concert Series and World Music Summer School
Full Concert series details available here. Full course programme and how to apply on the SOAS website.
Abdoulaye Samb and Minnjiraby Thursday 30 April 2015
Senegalese Music with an Open Heart
Ensemble Alash Monday 11 May 2015
Astonishing music from the heart of Siberia

St Pancras Rehabilitation Unit Open Day & Camden Community Services Disability Awareness Event
Tuesday 26th May 2015 between 1:30pm and 4:30pm, St Pancras Hospital South Wing
St Pancras Rehabilitation Unit acts as a pivotal part of the transition and support for patients in their recovery journey back home from UCLH, the Royal Free, the Whittington and other acute hospitals. We are keen that the unit is seen as a local resource which our whole community is proud and as such I am delighted to invite you to our joint event on Tuesday the 26th May 2015.
This is an opportunity for you, colleagues and members of the local community to learn more about the first class rehabilitation our clinical staff provide at St Pancras Rehabilitation Unit. If you are free to attend please reply to Kathryn Ford, lead for Equalities and Diversities in Camden email kathrynford@nhs.net or telephone 020 3317 3776 by 7th May 2015 so she can confirm catering arrangements.

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 BBC has gathered links to it’s recent progammes on the NHS into one page.

Women and Health Art Exhibition
Saturday 2nd – Monday 4th May. 11am to 6pm. 4 Carol Street, London NW1.

NHS 111 and out-of-hours GP Services in north central London
NHS Clinical Commissioning Groups in north central London are working to improve the local NHS 111 service. This includes integrating the NHS 111 service and the GP out-of-hours services to enable them to work better.
We will be holding public engagement events across north central London as an opportunity to hear from you. All residents are invited to come along and share their views and experiences of existing services so that we can work together towards developing the best possible service.
There is no need to RSVP, please just turn up; we look forward to seeing you. If you have any questions about the events, please contact feedback@nelcsu.nhs.uk or call 020 3688 1615.
Stephens House and Gardens, 17 East End Road, Finchley, London N3 3QE
Monday, 18 May 2015, 18:00 – 20:00.
St Pancras Hospital Conference Hall, 4 St Pancras Way, London NW1 0PE
Wednesday, 13 May 2015, 18:00 – 20:00.

West Hampstead Community Association, Voiceability, Buna, Kentish Town Community Centre, New Horizons Youth Centre, VAC, CRI, 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

FUNDING NEWS

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

The Origin Housing Community Grants Programme
The 2015/16 programme is now open, with the first deadline being Monday 29 June.
Everything you need to apply can be found online here: http://www.originhousing.org.uk/communitygrants.aspx
We welcome all applications for projects that will benefit our residents and customers, and fit into one or more of the following themes:
Building Stronger Communities
Gardening Food and Environmental
Celebrating Heritage
Origin anticipate spending all the budget in this first round. The deadline is 29 June.

Summerversity Contract Opportunities
Islington Council invites suitably experienced organisations to submit proposals to deliver high quality, engaging and innovative summer courses and activities for young people aged 13 + to be delivered as part of the Summerversity programme 2015.
Successful providers will be required to deliver free social, recreational and educational activities for young people aged 13+ providing opportunities for formal accreditation where appropriate. The aim of the programme is to engage young people in a range of stimulating courses and activities over their summer holiday that will develop their skills and interests, raise their ambitions and aspirations and expose them to the new experiences that will capture their imagination and creative ideas.
If you wish to apply for this opportunity please obtain an application form from isyp@islington.go.uk and return by 12 noon, 18 May 2015.
For an informal discussion about this opportunity please contact Luiza Mattausch on 020 7527 5947.

Community Awards from OneFamily
OneFamily have 15 awards of £5,000 & four awards of £25,000 available for community projects, charities and clubs to access. Last year we awarded £125,000 to 18 community projects and we were delighted to receive votes from 68,000 individuals who wanted to support projects either close to home or close to their heart. We’ve committed £5 million over the next 5 years to make a difference in communities.
Projects need to be nominated by one of our customers. One in 12 UK families holds a policy with us so community groups may already know of somebody who can nominate their project. Nomination close at 9am on 26 May before a public vote will determine the winners. Voting opens at 10am on 2 June and closes at midday on 29 June.
You can find some of our winners stories and further information on our website – https://foundation.onefamily.com/community-awards

Olswang Green Seed Fund 2015
Overall £34.2k – up to £3k per project – will go to creative environmental projects that have real social benefits and are based in *Camden* or *Reading*.
If you have won or applied before and are operating in these areas, consider re-applying. New applications are obviously welcome too. The deadline is midnight on 8th May 2015.
More detail here: www.projectdirt.com/olswangfund
You can view the winners from last year on www.projectdirt.com/olswang

Two New Grants from Locality
First Steps
First Steps gives small community groups the freedom to develop action plans to improve their neighbourhood.
First Steps areas will receive support to decide upon practical actions to make positive changes in their community.
The programme offers 115 communities the opportunity to work together to decide what they do and don’t like and what can be changed.
Click http://mycommunity.org.uk/programme/first-steps/ for more details.
Community Economic Development
The Community Economic Development (CED) programme is a new initiative designed for local community groups and organisations who want to take a lead in shaping their economies for the benefit of local communities.
If you belong to a community that wants to work towards seeing real economic change in your area – whether this is in food, housing, finance, energy or any other local economic opportunities – then the CED programme will set you on the right path.
The programme provides specialist support, advice and grant funding to help residents, local business and public sector organisations to work together to develop the best ideas to strengthen the local economy.
Click http://mycommunity.org.uk/programme/community-economic-development/ for more details.

The Hampstead Wells and Campden Trust
New Grant Opportunity for Tackling Poverty in North Campden
£50,000 is to be allocated by the trustees of The Hampstead Wells and Campden Trust to one or two projects for up to two years. This is to achieve some long term impact on and change in poverty in the Trust’s area of benefit (the old metropolitan borough of Hampstead.) This may be either by preventing problems or reducing their incidence. e.g. poor outcomes in children’s health and education, child care provision, security of housing tenure, reducing debt.
The Trust is keen to facilitate collaborative working amongst its beneficiary organisations. Clarity of outcomes will be needed for funding of any project, together with the organisation’s ability to demonstrate those outcomes.
1. An outline of the project and applicant organisation to reach us for shortlisting by 6th May 2015. (one side of A4)
2. Shortlisting Panel to meet week commencing 11th May 2015.
3. Inform short listed applicants week commencing 18t May 2015 and invite more detailed applications by 1st July 2015.
4. Review of applications by Grants Committee on 22nd July 2015.
5. Details of grant award to be conveyed to organisations on 30th July 2015.
For an informal discussion please contact Sheila Taylor, Director & Clerk to the Trustees on 0207 435 1570. Further details about the work of The Hampstead Wells and Campden Trust, you can visit their website on www.hwct.org.uk.

FreeSport offers grants up to £1500
FreeSport – part of the Mayor of London’s sport legacy programme – enables organisations and community groups of all shapes and sizes to apply for grants of up to £1,500 to run free sports activities for Londoners.
The next round of funding opens on 15 April 2015.
FreeSport is about inspiring people of all ages and abilities to try a new sport or activity, but importantly, it’s also about inspiring organisations who may never have done anything sporty before, and to spark their interest to run regular sport sessions. In previous FreeSport rounds we have funded a huge variety of activities ranging from traditional sports like football or rugby through to circus skills and ‘chairobics’
Applications are straight forward and we have lots of information to guide applicants who may never have applied for a grant before.
For more information on the FreeSport grant, you can visit the website which is: www.London.gov.uk/freesport

London Catalyst and the Hospital Saturday Fund have come together to launch a new ‘Partners for Health’ grant programme.
Grants of up to £10,000 will be considered for social action projects tackling the effects of poverty and health inequalities in London. ‘Partners for Health’ is open to community groups that can demonstrate a thoughtful response to local needs and partnership with an expert health agency. There is a particular interest in the areas of mental health and addiction.
The closing date for receipt of completed applications is Friday 29 May 2015. The application form and guidance can be downloaded at www.londoncatalyst.org.uk/grants/ – click on the ‘Partners For Health’ link in the opening paragraph of our Special Interest Grants.

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

VAC EVENTS

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

Mental health courses and workshops from VAC
To book your place, 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 based in Camden or which serve Camden residents. Places are limited on each course to a maximum of two people per organisation.
If you have any queries about our training, please contact us on our new email address: mentalhealthteam@vac.org.uk.

Mental Health First Aid Training Thursday 4th June and Thursday 11th June 2015
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a nationally approved two-day course, designed for anyone without specialist mental health training. The course promotes awareness of mental health issues, and trains non-mental health professionals to recognise those affected by mental health problems and to offer initial help and guidance towards professional support. This can lead to improved outcomes for those affected, their families, friends, colleagues and employers.
Participants will receive a copy of the MHFA manual and certificate on completion of the course.
To book your place please go to: https://vac.org.uk/event/mental-health-first-aid-mhfa-2-day-course/
If you have any questions please contact the Mental Health Team on: mentalhealthteam@vac.org.uk or call 020 7284 6550.

New VAC Training Programme

  • 6th May: Project Management Starter
  • 14th May: Governance/Trustees 6 evenings

Dementia Friends Information Sessions
Would you like to improve your understanding of dementia and what it might be like to live with the condition?
People with dementia sometimes need a helping hand to go about their daily lives and feel included in their local community. Dementia Friends is about raising awareness and encouraging people to do the small things that can make a difference to people living with dementia – from helping someone find the right bus to spreading the word about dementia. The initiative, run by the Alzheimer’s Society, aims to create a network of one million Dementia Friends across England by 2015.
Dementia Friends Information Sessions are short, interactive and fun. If you would like VAC to run a session for your organisation or community group, please contact Ann Wolfe on awolfe@vac.org.uk or call 020 7284 6565. For more information see the Dementia Friends website: http://www.dementiafriends.org.uk/

OTHER EVENTS

Improving access to urgent care in Camden
Camden Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is working with Barnet, Enfield, Haringey and Islington CCG’s to integrate the existing urgent care services across north central London. By integrating the services provided by the NHS 111 telephone service and GP out-of-hours across the five boroughs, patients will more easily be able to access urgent care. This will mean they receive the best care, from the best person, in the right place, at the right time.
There is no need to RSVP, please just turn up; we look forward to seeing you. If you have any questions about the events, please contact feedback@nelcsu.nhs.uk
or call 020 3688 1615.
Stephens House and Gardens, 17 East End Road, Finchley, London N3 3QE
Monday, 18 May 2015, 18:00 – 20:00.
St Pancras Hospital Conference Hall, 4 St Pancras Way, London NW1 0PE
Wednesday, 13 May 2015, 18:00 – 20:00.

Camden CCG’s Mental Health Investment Programme is holding an informal event for mental health service users and carers. Wednesday 6 May 2015 15.00 – 17.00 at Camden Peoples’ Theatre
We would like to invite those who have inputted into the programme, or would like to in the future, to join us to celebrate our first year.
At the event, there will be an opportunity to find out more about the new mental health services and programmes that are available in Camden. You will also be able to learn how to become involved in the ongoing work of the programme.
There will be food and refreshments provided and a creative theatrical performance to enjoy.
As there are limited spaces please let us know if you would like to attend by emailing your name and any accessibility or dietary requirements to engagement@camdenccg.nhs.uk or call 020 3688 2034. You must RSVP in order to attend.

Theatro Technis proudly presents latest production “OH, DEMOCRACY”
A musical adaptation of Aristophanes’ “THE KNIGHTS” by Keith Murphy, George Eugeniou and Marco Aponte.
Back in 424 BC, when ARISTOPHANES wrote “THE KNIGHTS” it poked fun at the political leaders in Athens, the like of leather merchant Kleon, who put his own personal gains above the city’s interest. Now almost 2500 years later it is as relevant as ever.
Opens: 26th May 7.30pm
The play runs until 6th June, Sunday Matinees 5pm, no shows on Mondays
Tickets: £10/concession £8
26 Crowndale Road London NW1 1TT
Tel: 020 7387 6617 fax: 020 73832545
Email: info@theatrotechnis.com website: www.theatrotechnis.com

Camden People’s Theatre present Stand Up and Down
A man tries to get out of a personal predicament by going into comedy. Things go well for a while – but soon he’s finding it harder to make people laugh. Might this be to do with something inside himself? At a drop-in centre for people with psychological problems, he starts to see himself and society in a different way…
The Stand Up and Down raises awareness of mental health as a social issue. One in four people will be affected by psychological problems at some point in their life. Des Marshall writer, Harry Meacher director sees theatre as a creative way of addressing these concerns.
Tue 09 Jun 2015 – Sun 21 Jun 2015, 7.30pm and 4pm on Sundays at Camden People’s Theatre, 58 – 60 Hampstead Road, NW1 2PY, Tickets: £12 / 10.
Box Office – 0207 419 4841 www.cptheatre.co.uk

Courses at Maiden Lane Community Centre
Presents two new courses
Create a website with WordPress
Thursdays 10.00 – 11.45am 30th April to 16th July
Computing for beginners
Thursdays 1.00 – 3.00pm 30th April to 16th July
Maiden Lane Community Centre, 156 St Pauls Crescent, NW1 9XZ.
Register now for a free place Tel: 0207 267 9586

VCC Volunteer Management Training
We have two training courses for volunteer managers, both of which are fundamental to any successful volunteering programme.
The first course, Introduction to Volunteer Management: The Essentials, is for everyone who is new to volunteer management. It is a half day course on Wednesday 29th April and you can book via eventbrite here.
The second course is Dealing With Difficult Situations With Volunteers and is for those of you who have the basics, but worry about handling tricky or uncomfortable situations with volunteers. This is also a half-day course on Thursday 21st May and you can book via eventbrite here.
Both courses have five free early-bird tickets for organisations that involve volunteers in Camden, and £59+bf for everyone else.

Love Your Lungs campaign taking place in Camden in May of this year
Led by Camden Clinical Commissioning Group in partnership with the British Lung Foundation, the campaign aims to raise awareness of COPD, encourage early diagnosis and reduce emergency hospital admissions.
The seven awareness and screening events can be found in the following locations:
Tuesday, 5th May Sainsbury’s, Finchley Road 10am-4pm
Wednesday, 6th May Sainsbury’s, Camden Town 10am-4pm
Thursday, 7th May Sainsbury’s Local, Kentish Town 9.30am-12.30pm
Tuesday, 12th May Morrisons, Chalk Farm 10am-4pm
Wednesday, 13th May Tesco Metro, Caledonian Road, Kings Cross 10am-4pm
TBC Sainsbury’s, Kilburn High Road 10am-4pm
Tuesday, 19th May Sainsbury’s Local, Pentoville Road, Kings Cross 9.30am-12.30pm
If you have any queries about the Love Your Lungs campaign, please contact Farha Sonvadi, Project Assistant at the British Lung Foundation.
T: 020 7688 6025 E: Farha.sonvadi@blf.org.uk

Learn to Build a Website
Free introductory sessions at West Euston Partnership or St Luke’s Community Centre. Various dates in April, May, June. Contact Jed Keenan on 07950963069 or email jed.keenan@aliteracyprogramme.org. Further information and booking at www.eliteracyprogramme.org

Mental health engagement event
This session has been designed to bring together refugee women’s projects with mainstream women’s groups. The first part of the session will be dedicated to examining current issues faced by refugee women and innovative solutions, with a presentation by Middlesex University’s Elena Vacchelli on support for refugee women.
13th of May 2014 1.30pm-5.00pm A venue in Islington to be confirmed.
We can cover the travel costs of refugee and asylum-seeking women.
For further information or bookings, please call / email Alexandra Ceriu at alexandra@evelynoldfield.co.uk 0207 697 4105.

Camden Deaf Awareness day – all welcome
Tuesday 12 May 2015, 9am to 4pm Camden Centre, Bidborough Street, London, WC1H 9AU
It’s the first Camden Deaf Awareness Day. Explore the challenges faced by deaf and hard of hearing residents and find out more about the support available across the borough. It’s a chance to exchange stories, experiences and ideas and look at how we can work together better. The day will include VIP speakers, a question time session and stalls from local and national organisations.
Communication support will be provided including BSL interpreters, Lip speakers, a Palantypist and T-Loop.
For more information or if you wish to volunteer on the day please contact Asif Iqbal, at asif.iqbal@camden.gov.uk
or call 020 7974 4444. Typetalk: 18001 020 7974 4444 TexBox: 020 7974 6866

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

Decentralise in Camden
The Camden Climate Change Alliance will be hosting a half day event on Thursday 21 May – ‘Decentralise In Camden’ – to bring together local organisations who are interested in understanding and contributing to Camden’s vision for decentralised energy networks. With knowledgeable speakers and case studies, the event will provide an opportunity for attendees to understand the benefits of implementing or connecting to an energy network, to learn about the various projects delivered to date and most importantly, what will be going on in Camden in over the coming years.
If your organisation would be interested in finding out more about the ‘Decentralise in Camden’ event, register your interest by emailing camdencca@camden.gov.uk and we’ll keep you updated.

Big Advice Day, June 16th, London – completely free 1:1 advice sessions with expert advisors
Big Advice Day is a day of free support for small charities as part of Small Charity Week 2015. The day consists of 1:1 hour long sessions with expert advisors; you choose the topics you’re interested in and we’ll match you to suitable advisors. We have advisors with expertise across a whole range of subjects including;
~ Accounting & Finance
~ Corporate Partnerships
~ Demonstrating Impact
~ Fundraising
~ Governance
~ IT
~ Law
~ Marketing + much more
The day is completely free to attend includes refreshments. You can attend in person or access advice via phone or Skype. Those attending on the day will also benefit from a range of free workshops.
If you would like to attend Big Advice Day and you are a registered charity with a turnover of under £1.5m per year then sign up here by 18th May.

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

JOBS AND VOLUNTEERS

The Mary Ward Legal Centre seeks a public legal education project volunteer
The Mary Ward Legal Centre is seeking a volunteer to help with its public legal education project on welfare benefits for community groups and residents in Camden. You would need to be able to commit to one day a week. You will help with preparing materials, attending presentations, making follow up phone calls as part of evaluation, and with general administration of the project.
You will get experience in these aspects as well as some general social security knowledge. You will need general IT & office skills and an interest in advice and welfare benefits, but no particular specialist knowledge.
The Mary Ward Legal Centre is based in Holborn, and you will be required to attend presentations at locations around Camden.
The Mary Ward Legal Centre will cover travel and lunch expenses.
To find out more contact Alban Hawksworth alban.hawksworth@marywardlegal.org.uk telephone 020 7269 5444

Primary Care Navigators Administration Officer
£23,658 – £25,620pa (Sc5) pro rata 14 hour per week £9,463.20 – £10,248pa, contributory pension, fixed term till 31 March 2017.
Following a tender, Age UK Camden with its partner Camden Carers Service is delivering the exciting new Primary Care Navigation Service for Camden Clinical Commissioning Group until March 2017. The six Navigators will support those aged 60 + with long term conditions to access timely care and community support services.
The successful candidate will provide administrative support to the Care Navigators Team. The post holder in conjunction with the manager will implement administrative system to support the Service including maintaining the Client database systems and contribute to efficient and effective administrative processes across the Care Navigation Service.
Candidates will come from a service orientated setting with a minimum of two years in an administration role, have excellent computer skills, good communicator, and able to work in a multi-disciplinary team. High level of accuracy and attention to detail as well as excellent organisational and time management skills are required.
It is important that the candidate promotes a culture that values, protects and uses information for the success of the organisation and benefit of its clients/patients
The post is based at Age UK Camden head office in Camden and some travel around the borough is required. AUC offers a contributory pension, and season ticket or bicycle loan facility. For further details and an application form visit our website www.ageukcamden.org.uk or email jobs@ageukcamden.org.uk or telephone 020 7239 0400. No CVs, no agencies please.
Closing date: 9am, Tuesday 5th May 2015. Interviews: Monday 11th May 2015

The Working Men’s College have a number of vacancies
E-Learning Development Manager Salary £32,142 – £36,162 per annum
Get into Learning – Curriculum Manager (0.6 f.t.e) Salary £32,142 – £36,162 per annum pro rata
Business and ICT – Curriculum Manager Salary £32,142 – £36,162 per annum
Fashion and Craft – Curriculum Manager Salary £32,142 – £36,162 per annum
Art and Design – Curriculum Manager Salary £32,142 – £36,162 per annum
Closing date for all the above posts is 12 noon on Friday 8th May 2015.
Interviews for the above posts will be held week commencing 18th May.
Head of Human Resources (0.5 f.t.e.) Up to £50,000 per annum pro-rata for 0.5 f.t.e. post
Closing date for the Head of HR post is 12 noon on Thursday 7th May 2015.
Interviews for the Head of HR will be held on 14th May.
For further details and to apply for one of the above posts please submit your application via our website: www.wmcollege.ac.uk or contact Jo Turner on: 0207 255 4728 or via email: JoT@wmcollege.ac.uk

IKWRO seeks Senior Training Officer
Senior Training Officer (4.5 days/week), Salary £30,928 (pro-rata)
The Iranian and Kurdish Women’s Rights Organisation (IKWRO) is a registered charity (number 1104550) which supports Middle Eastern and Afghan women and girls living in the UK who are facing “honour” based violence, forced marriage, female genital mutilation and domestic violence.
IKWRO’s services include advice, advocacy, information and counselling support to individual women and girls; training programmes for professionals, women and girls and community members; specific services such as ESOL, volunteering; campaigning for better laws and policies to protect women’s rights and social events.
As Senior Training Officer, you will take the lead to develop targeted training materials, deliver training to a wide range of audience, coordinate and supervise training programmes and coordinate and run partnership work with several other partners in the UK and Europe.
Above post is open to women only (Exemption under the Equality Act 2010 Schedule 9, Part 1).
For an application pack please send an email to jobs@ikwro.org.uk, or visit our website at www.ikwro.org.uk.
Closing date: 06 May 2015

Age UK Camden seeks Advocacy Officer
Salary: SO1, SCP 29, £28,845pa 35 hours per week, Fixed Term Contract for 6 months
Personalisation Support In Camden (PSIC) is a subsidiary of Age UK Camden. It provides Direct Payments support to disabled people under the age of 65 in Camden.
The Advocacy Officer will be working with disabled people under the age of 65 who currently receive financial support from the Independent Living Fund. Your role will be to provide advocacy to this group of service users when they face reassessment of their care needs following the closure of the fund.
If you are interested in the above vacancy please see the application pack including the full job description and person specification at the following link or on the website www.ageukcamden.org.uk or email recruitment@ageukcamden.org.uk.
The closing date for receipt of completed application forms is 9am on 5th May 2015 and interviews will be held on Thursday, 7th May 2015.

Age UK Camden seeks Female Day Care Officer- Henderson Court Resource Centre
Local Government Scale Sc4 £21,120-£23,145pa plus weekend allowance plus 6% contributory pension.
You will share responsibility within the centre team for a comprehensive service of care and support for service users. The post involves key working a number of older members with complex care needs, including dementia; leading / participating in all activities and outings; personal care, and all related recording and administration.
Essentials: good understanding of the issues and needs affecting older people, including those with dementia, flexible and willing to learn, ability to provide personal care and physical support to older people, ability to report and record relevant information, good communication and IT skills.
Owing to the under-representation of female staff in the centre, the privacy and dignity considerations for personal care requirements, this post is designated female only under the Sex Discrimination Act 1975 (7(2) (b)).
For further details and an application form visit our website www.ageukcamden.org.uk or email jobs@ageukcamden.org.uk or telephone 020 7239 0400. No CVs, no agencies please.
Closing date: 12pm, 1st May 2015. Interviews: 14th May 2015.

Care Assistant – Extra Care for Older People
Full-time, part-time, flexible hours and night work £15,370 pa pro rata, Camden, London
We are currently recruiting Care Assistants to assist and enable our customers with day-to-day tasks and provide personal care for older people. You will be required to provide residents with the highest standard of care and support in accordance with their personally tailored plan.
We will offer you ongoing guidance and training, both formal and informal. You will work towards the Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care and will be part of a friendly, highly supportive team.
To apply please register with our careers website www.onehousinggroup.co.uk/careers – and upload a CV and supporting statement of no more than two pages, outlining how your skills and experience meet our needs.

New Project to Enable BAME Volunteers
Capital Volunteers is a new project, funded by City Bridge, that will enable BAME young people (aged 18-30) to be better equipped to volunteer and to maximise the opportunity presented to them in their placement.
Through a combination of 1-2-1 support, development workshops, goal setting and appropriate volunteering placements the programme will
~ assist young people to: realise their potential
~ support them with their personal development
~ help them to develop core competencies for any work environment
As well as individuals the project will also support and strengthen established BAME organisations in London to be better placed to take on volunteers and to maximise this resource.
We will also host workshops for BAME organisations that currently use or intend to use volunteers
For more information contact: Tebussum@bteg.co.uk

Volunteers wanted CRI Services in Camden
CRI is a charity for people whose lives have been affected by substance misuse. CRI supports its clients through structured day programmes including group work, 1-1 key working, counselling and alternative therapies. Volunteers will be trained to eventually manage a small, low risk caseload.
Camden DIP is CRI’s criminal justice service in the Borough. Working closely with the police, prisons and probation the aim is to support clients who are involved in the criminal justice system to reduce their drug use and offending. Volunteer opportunities are also available in this service.
If you are interested in volunteering please contact;
Jane.robinson@cri.org.uk Mobile: 07554435207

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/

OFFERS, RESOURCES and ANNOUNCEMENTS

Keep Volunteering Voluntary
Following a successful event “Workfare and Benefits Sanctions: The Perils of Participation” the meeting, organised jointly by KVV, Greater London Volunteering and the London Voluntary Services Council, called on voluntary organisations to:
• use the KVV resources to promote understanding and awareness about the effects of workfare and benefits sanctions;
• sign up to support the Keep Volunteering Voluntary campaign and promote it among member organisations.
More information on Help to Work and Work fare can be at Keep Volunteering Voluntary (www.kvv.org.uk)

Office Space to Rent
In a rural farm environment located in the heart of North West London? This office is the place for you.
A good sized office (12 square metres / 129 square feet) located on the first floor of Kentish Town City Farm’s farmhouse building which is available furnished or unfurnished depending upon your needs.
They offer all the facilities you’d expect of a modern office and come with all your broadband and comms infrastructure setup and ready to go.
• Good sized office space (12 sq m / 129 sq ft): available Furnished or Unfurnished.
• Located in a city farm – giving a taste of the countryside in the middle of a bustling city.
• £500 a month with electricity, broadband and heating inclusive.
Contact Gareth Maddocks [gemaddocks@gmail.com]

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.

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To get discounts on training, room hire and many more benefits click here to join Voluntary Action Camden

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If you have an item for the e-bulletin, please email it to Kevin Nunan, knunan@vac.org.uk with a note of which section you would like it to appear under.

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