Kevin Nunan

More volunteers needed to support vaccination rollout

There is an ongoing need for volunteers to support the smooth roll out of the vaccination programme in north central London (NCL),  local residents can sign up to help. Find out how here.

Stop Hate UK Helpline

Stop Hate  24-hour helpline – call 24/7 0800 138 1625. Also available by text message on 07717 989 025 and by email talk@stophateuk.org.  Service users with hearing impairments can report via interactive British Sign Language by following the link on www.stophateuk.org.  Or use the online form www.stophateuk.org/talk.
Stop Hate UK will be delivering hate crime awareness training on Thursday 11th March, 2pm-3.30pm and Thursday 13th May 10am-11.30am. This event is for all who would like further awareness of hate crime and ways we can tackle the issue, including use of the Stop Hate UK helpline. To book on a session, email: learning@camden.gov.uk

Art Therapy with Likewise

Spaces are currently available for both 1-1 and group art therapy with trainee art therapists on placement at Likewise. Sessions are free and are currently being held online or over the phone. If you, or anyone you know, could benefit from a supportive space with a creative focus, please contact Anna Thirkettle via learning@likewise.org.uk / 07718652919 for more information.

A Beginner’s guide to the Indices of Multiple Deprivation (Training Session)

Join London Plus for a free 2 hour training session all about the Indices of Multiple Deprivation (IMD).
This interactive session will be facilitated by Lucy Smith (London Plus, Social Research and Data Lead) and will cover the following topics:
What is the IMD? – including indexes and ranks, and the geographical boundaries used to calculate local, regional and national scores
Where and how to download the IMD data – including which files to use to conduct your own analysis.  And much more.  Register here.

Free Learning Opportunities at Birkbeck

Future Focus: Starting Your Own Business
Thursday 11th February from 6-7pm
This event is aimed at anyone who is interested in starting a business and looking for tips and skills to help them along the way. Book here
‘Is Uni for Me?’ Online taster lecture and information event
Thursday 18th February from 12-2.30pm
This event is aimed at adults with no previous experience of university who are curious about higher education and would like to learn more. Book here

Newsletters

Young Camden Foundation
Healthwatch Camden
All Ways Network
West Euston Partnership
Visioning Camden 2030

Community Spaces at Risk Fund

The Mayor of London announced £750,000 to work with communities to protect grassroots cultural centres, social clubs, youth, education and other spaces that are locally rooted and critical for supporting vulnerable groups during the pandemic. Find out more at the London.gov website.

The Hampstead Wells and Campden Trust Covid-19 Emergency Fund

The fund is open for applications until 30th March 2021. The fund will provide small grants of up to £2,000 to organisations in the Trust’s Area of Benefit (see website) to support vulnerable individuals and families swiftly and effectively during the current lockdown. The Trust expects grants to be used for food, clothing, utility bills and materials for home schooling or for any other urgent need intensified by the pandemic. No application form is required and details of how to apply are on their website www.hwct.org.uk. Please contact the Trust’s Grants Officer: joanna@hwct.co.uk if you would like to discuss applying for this fund.

London Community Response Wave 5

There are 2 strands – a crisis response programme of grants of up to £10k – with a quick turnaround to ensure that urgent needs are met. And a programme of larger, longer-term ‘Renewal’ grants (up to £50K) which will focus on supporting the needs of civil society in the year ahead. Full guidance for applicants on both strands on the London Community Response website.  Also see our presentation to the Voluntary Action Forum for further details.

Comic Relief and Paul Hamlyn Foundation launch £1m digital development fund

The fund offers grants of up to £70,000.  It aims to support UK non-profits to test and develop digital service delivery solutions.
The fund is part of their joint Tech for Good programme. Applications close at 12pm on 12 February 2021.  Full details here.

Community Led Recovery Grants.

There are two grant streams:
~ Community-Led Action Grant: up to £9,000 to initiate social action projects
~ London Community Story Grant: grants of up to £1,500 to organisations with existing projects which capture Londoner’s experience of COVID-19, supporting them to be presented and shared to a wider audience.
Deadline for applications 12pm Friday 19th February 2021.   Details here.  Or email CommunityLedRecovery@groundwork.org.uk  or phone 020 7239 1390.

£500K Windrush Community Fund Opens For Bids

Charities working with people affected by the Windrush scandal can apply for grants to spread awareness of a government compensation scheme.
The Windrush Community Fund will be managed by Voice4Change England (V4CE), and will make grants of up to £25,000 to charities, community groups and grassroots organisations.
Those grants can be used to raise levels of engagement with the government’s Windrush Scheme and Windrush Compensation Scheme.

National Lottery Community Fund Re-Opens Regular Funding Programmes

Applications for all three programmes are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Catherine Capaldi Awards

Elfrida Rathbone Camden are delighted to announce that the Catherine Capaldi Awards are open for applications.  These awards are open to anyone who identifies as a disabled person and who has an idea or solution to break down a barrier faced by disabled people or to improve their access to services, inclusion or community participation.  More information and how to enter here.

Lists of Emergency Funders

• Civil Society
• Ian McLintok’s LinkedIn blog
• NCVO’s funding central site is currently free for non-members.
• Charity Bank 
• Grants Online

VAC Events

Keep in eye on our Events Calendar to book and for more info.

Camden Voluntary Action Forum

The forum is open to all Camden voluntary and community  groups and organisations, community activists, social entrepreneurs, volunteers and anyone interested in local voluntary action. The Forum currently meets monthly online on the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 11am.
The recording and presentation from the Wed 20th Jan Forum is available here.
The next Forum is on Wednesday 24th February

Past Voluntary Action Forums: Resources

You can find presentations, recordings and resources from past forums here.

Safeguarding Courses:

Check back for details of upcoming courses

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

Body Mind Spirit

forum+ has a full programme of events to celebrate LGBT History Month February 2021 celebrating the history and achievements of Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Trans communities.

What is an ICS, STP or PCN?
NASP/ Thriving Communities webinar

Wednesday 17th Feb 2021, 3-4pm
What is an ICS, STP or PCN? – and how do they affect me? Understanding the NHS’ structure, its jargon, and how social prescribing fits in.  Register here.
This webinar is designed for those in voluntary, community, faith, and social enterprise groups and organisations who want to learn more about how the NHS is structured and how social prescribing fits in.

Safeguarding adults

The Safeguarding Adults Partnership Board in partnership with the Learning & Development Service have commissioned nine half day online “Safeguarding Adults Awareness workshops” available for the Voluntary and Charity sector
18 February 2021 10.00-13.00 or 13.30-16.30
24 February 2021 10.00-13.00 or 13.30-16.30
8 March 2021 13.30-16.30
11 March 2021 13.30-16.30
17 March 2021 10.00-13.00 or 13.30-16.30
To request a place email learning@camden.gov.uk

Introduction to domestic violence and abuse e-learning

This e-learning can be accessed by VCS organisations that solely support Camden residents. It is for those that would like to gain an awareness on domestic violence and abuse. It will provide you with an introduction to what the types and signs of abuse are, how to respond and what actions to take.
Access the e-learning via the L&D Hub if you already have an account. If you are from a VCS organisation without an account for the L&D Hub please find details here  on how to sign-up.

Responding to domestic violence and abuse online workshop

This two-hour online workshop can be accessed by VCS organisations that solely support Camden residents. It will help you become more aware of the indicators of domestic violence and abuse and what to do in these instances. The workshop will explore the dynamics of a domestic abuse situation and what the barriers are for the victim/survivor seeking help. You’ll also be provided with information where help is available for the victim/survivor.
Please book via the L&D Hub if you already have an account. If you are from a VCS organisation without an account for the L&D Hub please find details here  on how to sign-up.

Thriving Communities

The programme focusses on social prescribing and covid 19 related support delivered by the voluntary and community sector. Information about the programme and the Thriving Communities learning opportunities are here.
Watch recordings of all webinars here.
You can also sign up to the network and ideas hub and get access to free webinars and learning.

Age UK Camden Information and Advice coffee mornings

Information and Advice team will be hosting three virtual coffee mornings on the following days between 11-12pm:
~ Wednesday 24th February
~ Wednesday 31st March
Each meeting will be hosted via Zoom. To join the January meeting, please follow this link
Meeting ID: 837 2165 2832  Passcode: 014913

The Catherine Capaldi Awards – workshop

Elfrida Rathbone Camden are organising the Catherine Capaldi Awards to be awarded to disabled people who have come up with solutions to issues or ideas on how to break down barriers.
In partnership with Arup’s Access & Inclusive Environments Team,  workshops support potential applicants with their application. Find out more here.
Thursday 11 February at 11am –  via Zoom.
The aim of these workshops is to:
• Support applicants to shape and refine their ideas.
• Guide applicants through the form, and to answer any specific questions.
To attend, or for more info, please contact catherine@elfridacamden.org.uk

National Housing Emergency Summit

Saturday 20th FEbruary 2021, 11am – 7pm
Will include round-table sessions on Fighting evictions, Grenfell and Safety, reclaiming Empty Homes, Stop the Developers’ Charter, Rent strikes, and Building 100,000 Council homes a year.  Details and booking at Eventbrite.

UCL Social Hackathons

Hackathons are one-day events in which you get a group of UCL students to come up with solutions to benefit your organisation.  If successful in your application, you will then receive £500 funding from us to help turn any ideas you think are feasible into a reality. Social Hackathons are running Monday 15th February to Friday 19th February, from 10am-4pm and will be held for one day online over Zoom.
If you want to apply to take part, please do so here by Monday 18th January.

Rethink Training

Rethink Mental Illness training partnership with the London Boroughs of Camden & Islington councils.  Rethink provides online course to organisations free of charge and also runs courses that are open to individuals.
Full details on the Rethink website.

Camden Safeguarding Children Partnership

Multi-agency online training programme Spring Term 2020-21
A full programme of multi-agency safeguarding training on zoom and teams.
To book onto the free training, please visit the Partnerships’s website. You will be required to register an account if you haven’t done so already.

Researcher – Invitation to Tender

Research on the development and impact of a BAME-led partnership for tackling social isolation among older people in Camden.
Ageing Better in Camden (ABC) is a partnership of older people and Camden organisations, working together to tackle social isolation and loneliness among older people. Since 2018, we have supported the development of a BAME-led partnership to find and engage with older people from smaller minority groups in the borough.
We would like to appoint an experienced qualitative researcher to examine the development and impact of the BAME-led partnership. We are actively seeking applications from researchers of African heritage and/or with substantial cultural understanding of African minority groups in the UK to carry out the work.
The budget is £20k. The research will be carried out between late March and early November.
Please see http://www.ageingbetterincamden.org.uk/latestnews/2021/1/28/researcher-invitation-to-tender for further information.
Deadline for submission of tenders is 9am on 5 March 2021.

Opening Doors Head of Fundraising

35 hours per week permanent
As Head of Fundraising you will be responsible for our fundraising strategy, securing the financial stability of the organisation. We are looking for someone who is energised by challenge, motivated by our values and wants to make a significant positive difference to the lives of older LGBTQ+ people.
Closing date: 5pm Monday 22nd February 2021
To apply, please email your CV and Letter of application, Equalities form and Declaration form to jobs@openingdoorslondon.org.uk

Age UK Camden seeks Finance Assistant (PT)

This position requires a motivated, hard-working, and organised individual who will take responsibility of recording and processing the Group’s first line finance functions.
£9370.80 to £9539.60 PA for 14 hours a week.
This contract is for 6 months initially, with the possibility of an extension.
Deadline for applications: 9am Thursday 18th February.
To apply for the role, please complete the application form on the website.
For more information about the role please call 020 7239 0400 or email jobs@ageukcamden.org.uk

Could you share your digital skills with a disabled person in Camden?

Camden Disability Action is looking for people to join us as Digital Coaches. This means you would work one to one with a disabled person, finding out the sorts of online things they might like to do and helping them to get started on doing them – from shopping to job hunting to gaming to zooming their grandchildren.
Being online is more important in our lives than ever – by sharing what you know about using online services you can help unlock a world of online opportunity for someone.
If you could spare a few hours a week contact CDA.
For more information follow this link to the Volunteer at CDA Page

London Irish Centre seeks Advice Officer (Housing)

Part Time – 2.5 days per week
Up to £30,000 pro rata, depending on experience
We are looking for an Advice Officer to join our Advice Service, which exists to improve opportunities and reduce poverty in London. Working primarily with people who identify as Irish, the service works to empower people using a strengths-based approach.
Application packs are available online
The deadline for applications is 9am, Monday 1st March 2021.

Volunteers Needed – Story tellers/ actors

Are you a good Storyteller and able to address a young audience?
We need speakers to future story times
Contact somerstownhistory@gmail.com for more details

COVID-19 Heath Champions programme

Find out more and sign up to become a COVID-19 Health Champion here:
Sign up here:

The Camden Winter Night Shelter needs volunteers

C4WS are currently sourcing volunteers for the C4WS Winter Shelter and reaching out to organisations that may not be running services this year, or running a different service, with volunteers still willing to give their time.
Please see the volunteer sign up link: https://signup.com/go/bfGANJe

Work Experience Opportunity for Young Person (15 – 18 years)

Work Experience (virtual) with Prestigious Knowledge Quarter partners
February Half term
Design an Exhibition on Local heroes Radical thinkers.  More details here.

Lifting Limits seeks Head of Education

Lifting Limits is looking for an experienced primary school practitioner with leadership experience and understanding of the primary school sector for a new senior role as Head of Education.  We are a charity with a mission to challenge gender stereotyping and promote gender equality, in and through education, and the Head of Education will help us build on our positive impact so far and scale our model to reach significant numbers of schools.
£45,000 p.a. pro rata. part time, 3 days (or equivalent hours) per week
Deadline for applications: 15th February.
For full details at https://www.liftinglimits.org.uk/contact-us/

Opening Doors Befriending Support Officer

You will be responsible for supporting befriending relationships and helping develop the service –  triaging new referrals to the service, liaising with existing clients by phone or in person in their homes (not currently) and making referrals to external support services. You will support the recruitment, development, placement and ongoing support of volunteers within the service. You will also be responsible for reaching out to minority or under-represented communities who may not be aware of the ODL Befriending Service.
See website for full requirements. Please email you completed Application form to: jobs@openingdoorslondon.org.uk

Hopscotch Homecare urgently need Care Workers.

Hopscotch Homecare are a very caring,well-established and expanding care agency that has been providing care workers to clients in and around Camden for 20 years. We are looking for care workers who would like to help our clients to continue living safely and independently in their own homes.
Day/Night hours available and must be able to work at least two late shifts a week and alternate weekends  Contact:recruitment@hopscotchawc.org.uk

Census Job opportunities

The next census is in 2021 and the Office of National Statistics is hiring for new local Census jobs, with applications invited for exciting new temporary roles at all levels.
All the current openings, application information and FAQs are on censusjobs.co.uk
For more information about the 2021 Census and local communities click here.

Paid work opportunities for people who have been laid off/ reduced income

Local Adult social care providers are still recruiting, and as they support the NHS to move vulnerable adults out of hospital to stay well at home, their need is growing. Contact Proud to Care.

Telling Your Covid Stories

How do we tell the story of the sector’s responded to the pandemic?  VAC are collecting your stories about how you responded.  The responses will be used to tell the story of how vital the sector is in supporting Camden through these challenging times.  You can click here https://www.tfaforms.com/4863725 to put your story in writing or contact Len Lauk (llauk@vac.org.uk) if you would prefer to be interviewed.

Covid-19 Community Response Survey

The voluntary sector has been working in partnership with the Council to provide support to Camden residents who are vulnerable and need support around food provision.  To help improve this partnership, please complete this Camden Council survey by 3rd February. The survey should not take more than 5-10 minutes and will be able to help the council to plan and promote support to residents in the forthcoming months.

Help Camden Carers decide on their prioritise for the next two years

Camden Carers are putting together a two year strategy (April 2021 to March 2023). Please spare 5 minutes to complete the survey. https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/CamdenCarersSurvey2
(staff/organisations link).
CCC are using a range of other ways to seek the views of carers both known and not known to us. Here is separate survey link for potential carers who use your services. CCC are keen to hear from Carers that currently don’t currently receive a service from CCC.
https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/CamdenCarersSurvey1 (service user link)

Lateral Flow Testing (quick test) for VCS frontline staff and volunteers

‘Lateral flow’ COVID-19 tests are available for all in frontline roles who have regular face-to-face contact with communities, and who do not have any coronavirus symptoms.
Appointments are available at two test sites (Crowndale Library and Swiss Cottage Library) every weekday from 9am to 5pm. Book here.  If your organisation is not on the system, add the name in the notes’ box.

Boloh Helpline for BAME Families

Barnardo’s has launched a new helpline where you can talk about your worries, problems and stresses during this time with new helpline Boloh, which provides emotional support, practical advice and signposting to other organisations who can provide further help.
If you know of any families requiring therapeutic support or vouchers to purchase food or clothing, please refer them to the helpline by calling: 0800 151 2605.
For more information on how the Boloh Helpline Advisors and the team of psychotherapists can offer advice, signposting and therapeutic support for the children, young people, parents and carers – please go to: https://helpline.barnardos.org.uk/ or email VAC’s Safeguarding Lead Dianne Carlton-Ogunyemi on dogunyemi@vac.org.uk for more information.

Food Support

Find your local food bank or community organisation providing food at findfood.camden.gov.uk.
If you don’t have internet access, please call Camden Council on 020 7974 4444 and select option 9
You can also donate at findfood.camden.gov.uk/donate

Keeping The Community Directory Up-to-date

As we enter Autumn lots is changing.  Buildings are starting to re-open, some activities are moving back into the real world, some food parcel deliveries have ended, while other food projects continue.  Help us to keep the directory up-to-date by updating your details as they change.
If you would like to make a new entry in the directory use this link.   If you would like to update an existing entry look out for an email from us early next week with a unique link for you to update.
View the Directory here.  View the map here.

How to Volunteer and How to Recruit Volunteers in Camden

Volunteer in Camden at Time to Spare.
Volunteer for the NHS at GoodSAM.
Join a neighbourhood Mutual Aid group.
Organisations that are signed up to Time to Spare can now request volunteers through a brokerage team making it much easier to access the volunteers. The brokers can help match volunteers with voluntary and community organisations who have a need for verified/ vetted volunteers. The service will also help to verify or carry out new DBS check with volunteers.
Get support and resources from Volunteer Centre Camden
The council has a  page of resources to help community organisations

Fully-funded university places with Camden Scholarships

Birkbeck, University of London  is offering two scholarship places to Camden residents for any of their undergraduate courses starting in October 2021. The deadline to apply is 25 June 2021.
Hult International Business School is offering Camden residents a fully-funded one-year postgraduate Master of International Business degree. The course starts in Sept 2021 and the deadline to apply is 21 May 2021. Full details here.

Request for Camden employers to provide 6 months’ work placements for 19-25 year olds

Camden Youth Pathways Finder project is looking for Camden employers to provide placement opportunities to young people at risk of/involved in youth violence (including remote working). Camden Council will pay the young person London Living Wage for the duration of the placement, provide ongoing pastoral care and support for both the organisation and young person and be a point of contact for any queries that may arise.
To register or to find out more, contact serrina.lobban@camden.gov.uk

Keep in touch and up-to-date via the e-bulletin and @onecamden twitter.  We have a comprehensive COVID-19 update page and a resources page.

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

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

Stop Hate UK Helpline

On 1st February, Stop Hate UK will launch a 24-hour helpline to support Camden residents affected by hate crime. The service provides a safe space for victims and witnesses to talk about their experiences with trained staff and volunteers able to listen, and gve advice on appropriate action.
Call 24/7 0800 138 1625. Also available by text message on 07717 989 025 and by email talk@stophateuk.org
Service users with hearing impairments can report via interactive British Sign Language by following the link on www.stophateuk.org.  Or use the online form www.stophateuk.org/talk.

Covid-19 Community Response Survey

The voluntary sector has been working in partnership with the Council to provide support to Camden residents who are vulnerable and need support around food provision.  To help improve this partnership, please complete this Camden Council survey by 3rd February. The survey should not take more than 5-10 minutes and will be able to help the council to plan and promote support to residents in the forthcoming months.

More Digital Divide Resources

We’ve brought together some guides to digital – from devices to data; cheap deals and charity support;  as well as tips to getting online from Ageing Better in Camden.   Digital Resources here, here and here.  Also check out the ABC Guides Running Social Groups by Phone and Bridging the Digital Divide.  You can find all the digital resources on our Covid-19 resource page. Including info on BT basic – a cheap package for people in receipt of means tested benefits.

Benefit Check Appointments for over 55s

Age UK Camden Information and Advice Service are offering Benefit Check appointments for Camden residents aged 55+ or their carers.
A Benefit Check ensures older Camden residents are receiving their full-entitlement to the welfare benefits available to them and helps to raise awareness of the Warm Home Discount – a one-off payment of £140 to help with energy costs for those who meet the eligibility criteria.
please contact us at: duty@ageukcamden.org.uk or call 020 7837 3777

What is an ICS, STP or PCN?
NASP/ Thriving Communities webinar

Wednesday 17th Feb 2021, 3-4pm
What is an ICS, STP or PCN? – and how do they affect me? Understanding the NHS’ structure, its jargon, and how social prescribing fits in.  Register here.
This webinar is designed for those in voluntary, community, faith, and social enterprise groups and organisations who want to learn more about how the NHS is structured and how social prescribing fits in.

Responding to domestic violence and abuse – quick guide for staff

We all can play a part in keeping our community safe, which can involve signposting those at risk to the right support.
This guide produced by Camden council contains essential information for frontline staff or anyone that comes into contact with Camden residents through their work. It aims to help you recognise the signs of abuse and where to seek further support. If you are experiencing domestic abuse, or know someone who is, call our confidential advice service Camden Safety Net on 020 7974 2526. To access a wide range of support visit camden.gov.uk/domestic-violence.

Help Camden Carers decide on their prioritise for the next two years

At Camden Carers we are putting together our two year strategy (April 2021 to March 2023). Please spare 5 minutes to complete the survey. https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/CamdenCarersSurvey2
(this link is for staff/organisations)
CCC are using a range of other ways to seek the views of carers both known and not known to us. Here is separate survey link for potential carers who use your services.
We are really keen to hear from Carers that currently don’t currently receive a service from CCC.
https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/CamdenCarersSurvey1
(this link is for anyone who uses your services)

Newsletters

Young Camden Foundation
Healthwatch Camden
All Ways Network
West Euston Partnership
Visioning Camden 2030

Community Spaces at Risk Fund

The Mayor of London announced £750,000 to work with communities to protect grassroots cultural centres, social clubs, youth, education and other spaces that are locally rooted and critical for supporting vulnerable groups during the pandemic. Find out more at the London.gov website.

Trust for London

The next funding application deadline is approaching on 1pm, 2 February 2021. If you would like to book an appointment to speak with a grant manager to discuss your application ahead of this deadline, the team would be happy to help. 30 minute slots are available from Tuesday 19 January up until the deadline for applications on Tuesday 2 February. Find the funding guidelines here.

The Hampstead Wells and Campden Trust Covid-19 Emergency Fund

The fund is open for applications until 30th March 2021. The fund will provide small grants of up to £2,000 to organisations in the Trust’s Area of Benefit (see website) to support vulnerable individuals and families swiftly and effectively during the current lockdown. The Trust expects grants to be used for food, clothing, utility bills and materials for home schooling or for any other urgent need intensified by the pandemic. No application form is required and details of how to apply are on their website www.hwct.org.uk. Please contact the Trust’s Grants Officer: joanna@hwct.co.uk if you would like to discuss applying for this fund.

London Community Response Wave 5

There are 2 strands – a crisis response programme of grants of up to £10k – with a quick turnaround to ensure that urgent needs are met. And a programme of larger, longer-term ‘Renewal’ grants (up to £50K) which will focus on supporting the needs of civil society in the year ahead. Full guidance for applicants on both strands on the London Community Response website.  Also see our presentation to the Voluntary Action Forum for further details.

Comic Relief and Paul Hamlyn Foundation launch £1m digital development fund

The fund offers grants of up to £70,000.  It aims to support UK non-profits to test and develop digital service delivery solutions.
The fund is part of their joint Tech for Good programme. Applications close at 12pm on 12 February 2021.  Full details here.

Community Led Recovery Grants.

There are two grant streams:
~ Community-Led Action Grant: up to £9,000 to initiate social action projects
~ London Community Story Grant: grants of up to £1,500 to organisations with existing projects which capture Londoner’s experience of COVID-19, supporting them to be presented and shared to a wider audience.
Deadline for applications 12pm Friday 19th February 2021.   Details here.  Or email CommunityLedRecovery@groundwork.org.uk  or phone 020 7239 1390.

£500K Windrush Community Fund Opens For Bids

Charities working with people affected by the Windrush scandal can apply for grants to spread awareness of a government compensation scheme.
The Windrush Community Fund will be managed by Voice4Change England (V4CE), and will make grants of up to £25,000 to charities, community groups and grassroots organisations.
Those grants can be used to raise levels of engagement with the government’s Windrush Scheme and Windrush Compensation Scheme.

Leathersellers’ Small Grants

The Leathersellers’ Company has a fast track application process for one-off grants of up to £3,000. It could be particularly useful for funding small projects or to cover unexpected costs arising from COVID-19. Applications are open to registered charities with an income of under £200,000.   You must be in an area of high deprivation.  Details at the Leathersellers’ Small Grants Programme.

National Lottery Community Fund Re-Opens Regular Funding Programmes

Applications for all three programmes are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Catherine Capaldi Awards

Elfrida Rathbone Camden are delighted to announce that the Catherine Capaldi Awards are open for applications.  These awards are open to anyone who identifies as a disabled person and who has an idea or solution to break down a barrier faced by disabled people or to improve their access to services, inclusion or community participation.  More information and how to enter here.

Lists of Emergency Funders

• Civil Society
• Ian McLintok’s LinkedIn blog
• NCVO’s funding central site is currently free for non-members.
• Charity Bank 
• Grants Online

VAC Events

Keep in eye on our Events Calendar to book and for more info.

Camden Voluntary Action Forum

The forum is open to all Camden voluntary and community  groups and organisations, community activists, social entrepreneurs, volunteers and anyone interested in local voluntary action. The Forum currently meets monthly online on the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 11am.
The recording and presentation from the Wed 20th Jan Forum is available here.
The next Forum is on Wednesday 24th February

Past Voluntary Action Forums: Resources

You can find presentations, recordings and resources from past forums here.

Safeguarding Courses:

Check back for details of upcoming courses

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

Safeguarding adults

The Safeguarding Adults Partnership Board in partnership with the Learning & Development Service have commissioned nine half day online “Safeguarding Adults Awareness workshops” available for the Voluntary and Charity sector
1 February 2021 13.30-16.30
18 February 2021 10.00-13.00
18 February 2021 13.30-16.30
24 February 2021 10.00-13.00
24 February 2021 13.30-16.30
8 March 2021 13.30-16.30
11 March 2021 13.30-16.30
17 March 2021 10.00-13.00
17 March 2021 13.30-16.30
To request a place email learning@camden.gov.uk

Community Champions Camden

Find out more about the Community Champions programme.  A health and wellbeing project putting residents voices at the heart.
This will be a chance to meet other residents, hear about the project and share your ideas.  You can take the survey here.
Wednesday 3rd February at 11.30am and 5.30pm.
Register by contacting your local coordinator:
Kentish Town – James – 07979 756970 – james@elfridacamden.org.uk
Kilburn – Emelye – 0300 365 2003 – emelye@shakonline.co.uk
Regents Park Estate – Ellie – 07923 849 277 – ellie.rudd@fya.org.uk

Introduction to domestic violence and abuse e-learning

This e-learning can be accessed by VCS organisations that solely support Camden residents. It is for those that would like to gain an awareness on domestic violence and abuse. It will provide you with an introduction to what the types and signs of abuse are, how to respond and what actions to take.
Access the e-learning via the L&D Hub if you already have an account. If you are from a VCS organisation without an account for the L&D Hub please find details here  on how to sign-up.

Responding to domestic violence and abuse online workshop

This two-hour online workshop can be accessed by VCS organisations that solely support Camden residents. It will help you become more aware of the indicators of domestic violence and abuse and what to do in these instances. The workshop will explore the dynamics of a domestic abuse situation and what the barriers are for the victim/survivor seeking help. You’ll also be provided with information where help is available for the victim/survivor.
Please book via the L&D Hub if you already have an account. If you are from a VCS organisation without an account for the L&D Hub please find details here  on how to sign-up.

Thriving Communities

The programme focusses on social prescribing and covid 19 related support delivered by the voluntary and community sector. Information about the programme and the Thriving Communities learning opportunities are here.
Watch recordings of all webinars here.
You can also sign up to the network and ideas hub and get access to free webinars and learning.

Age UK Camden Information and Advice coffee mornings

Information and Advice team will be hosting three virtual coffee mornings on the following days between 11-12pm:
~ Wednesday 24th February
~ Wednesday 31st March
Each meeting will be hosted via Zoom. To join the January meeting, please follow this link
Meeting ID: 837 2165 2832  Passcode: 014913

The Catherine Capaldi Awards – workshop

Elfrida Rathbone Camden are organising the Catherine Capaldi Awards to be awarded to disabled people who have come up with solutions to issues or ideas on how to break down barriers.
In partnership with Arup’s Access & Inclusive Environments Team,  workshops support potential applicants with their application. Find out more here.
Thursday 11 February at 11am –  via Zoom.
The aim of these workshops is to:
• Support applicants to shape and refine their ideas.
• Guide applicants through the form, and to answer any specific questions.
To attend, or for more info, please contact catherine@elfridacamden.org.uk

National Housing Emergency Summit

Saturday 20th FEbruary 2021, 11am – 7pm
Will include round-table sessions on Fighting evictions, Grenfell and Safety, reclaiming Empty Homes, Stop the Developers’ Charter, Rent strikes, and Building 100,000 Council homes a year.  Details and booking at Eventbrite.

UCL Social Hackathons

Hackathons are one-day events in which you get a group of UCL students to come up with solutions to benefit your organisation.  If successful in your application, you will then receive £500 funding from us to help turn any ideas you think are feasible into a reality. Social Hackathons are running Monday 15th February to Friday 19th February, from 10am-4pm and will be held for one day online over Zoom.
If you want to apply to take part, please do so here by Monday 18th January.

Rethink Training

Rethink Mental Illness training partnership with the London Boroughs of Camden & Islington councils.  Rethink provides online course to organisations free of charge and also runs courses that are open to individuals.
Full details on the Rethink website.

Camden Safeguarding Children Partnership

Multi-agency online training programme Spring Term 2020-21
A full programme of multi-agency safeguarding training on zoom and teams.
To book onto the free training, please visit the Partnerships’s website. You will be required to register an account if you haven’t done so already.

Researcher – Invitation to Tender

Research on the development and impact of a BAME-led partnership for tackling social isolation among older people in Camden.
Ageing Better in Camden (ABC) is a partnership of older people and Camden organisations, working together to tackle social isolation and loneliness among older people. Since 2018, we have supported the development of a BAME-led partnership to find and engage with older people from smaller minority groups in the borough.
We would like to appoint an experienced qualitative researcher to examine the development and impact of the BAME-led partnership. We are actively seeking applications from researchers of African heritage and/or with substantial cultural understanding of African minority groups in the UK to carry out the work.
The budget is £20k. The research will be carried out between late March and early November.
Please see http://www.ageingbetterincamden.org.uk/latestnews/2021/1/28/researcher-invitation-to-tender for further information.
Deadline for submission of tenders is 9am on 5 March 2021.

London Irish Centre seeks Advice Officer (Housing)

Part Time – 2.5 days per week
Up to £30,000 pro rata, depending on experience
We are looking for an Advice Officer to join our Advice Service, which exists to improve opportunities and reduce poverty in London. Working primarily with people who identify as Irish, the service works to empower people using a strengths-based approach.
Application packs are available online
The deadline for applications is 9am, Monday 1st March 2021.

Volunteers Needed – Story tellers/ actors

Are you a good Storyteller and able to address a young audience?
We need speakers to future story times
Contact somerstownhistory@gmail.com for more details

COVID-19 Heath Champions programme

Find out more and sign up to become a COVID-19 Health Champion here:
Sign up here:

The Camden Winter Night Shelter needs volunteers

C4WS are currently sourcing volunteers for the C4WS Winter Shelter and reaching out to organisations that may not be running services this year, or running a different service, with volunteers still willing to give their time.
Please see the volunteer sign up link: https://signup.com/go/bfGANJe

Work Experience Opportunity for Young Person (15 – 18 years)

Work Experience (virtual) with Prestigious Knowledge Quarter partners
February Half term
Design an Exhibition on Local heroes Radical thinkers.  More details here.

Lifting Limits seeks Head of Education

Lifting Limits is looking for an experienced primary school practitioner with leadership experience and understanding of the primary school sector for a new senior role as Head of Education.  We are a charity with a mission to challenge gender stereotyping and promote gender equality, in and through education, and the Head of Education will help us build on our positive impact so far and scale our model to reach significant numbers of schools.
£45,000 p.a. pro rata. part time, 3 days (or equivalent hours) per week
Deadline for applications: 15th February.
For full details at https://www.liftinglimits.org.uk/contact-us/

Opening Doors Befriending Support Officer

You will be responsible for supporting befriending relationships and helping develop the service –  triaging new referrals to the service, liaising with existing clients by phone or in person in their homes (not currently) and making referrals to external support services. You will support the recruitment, development, placement and ongoing support of volunteers within the service. You will also be responsible for reaching out to minority or under-represented communities who may not be aware of the ODL Befriending Service.
See website for full requirements. Please email you completed Application form to: jobs@openingdoorslondon.org.uk

Hopscotch Homecare urgently need Care Workers.

Hopscotch Homecare are a very caring,well-established and expanding care agency that has been providing care workers to clients in and around Camden for 20 years. We are looking for care workers who would like to help our clients to continue living safely and independently in their own homes.
Day/Night hours available and must be able to work at least two late shifts a week and alternate weekends  Contact:recruitment@hopscotchawc.org.uk

Unity Works Seeks Trustees

Unity Works, part of the charitable Thera Group, is a specialist organisation supporting people with a learning disability to gain skills, qualifications and jobs, so they can reach their full potential. The new organisation, which was developed from The Camden Society, builds on 20 years of experience of helping hundreds of people with a learning disability to secure jobs through volunteering and training opportunities.
Call Tarnya Thompson on 07595 200476 or email mailto:Tarnya.Thompson@thera.co.uk for an informal discussion.

Census Job opportunities

The next census is in 2021 and the Office of National Statistics is hiring for new local Census jobs, with applications invited for exciting new temporary roles at all levels.
All the current openings, application information and FAQs are on censusjobs.co.uk
For more information about the 2021 Census and local communities click here.

Paid work opportunities for people who have been laid off/ reduced income

Local Adult social care providers are still recruiting, and as they support the NHS to move vulnerable adults out of hospital to stay well at home, their need is growing. Contact Proud to Care.

Telling Your Covid Stories

At the September forum we discussed how to tell the story of the sector’s responded to the pandemic  – so we are collecting your stories about how you responded.  The responses will be used to tell the story of how vital the sector is in supporting Camden through these challenging times.  You can click here https://www.tfaforms.com/4863725 to put your story in writing or contact Len Lauk (llauk@vac.org.uk) if you would prefer to be interviewed.

Lateral Flow Testing (quick test) for VCS frontline staff and volunteers

‘Lateral flow’ COVID-19 tests are available for all in frontline roles who have regular face-to-face contact with communities, and who do not have any coronavirus symptoms.
Appointments are available at two test sites (Crowndale Library and Swiss Cottage Library) every weekday from 9am to 5pm. Book here.  If your organisation is not on the system, add the name in the notes’ box.

Boloh Helpline for BAME Families

Barnardo’s has launched a new helpline where you can talk about your worries, problems and stresses during this time with new helpline Boloh, which provides emotional support, practical advice and signposting to other organisations who can provide further help.
If you know of any families requiring therapeutic support or vouchers to purchase food or clothing, please refer them to the helpline by calling: 0800 151 2605.
For more information on how the Boloh Helpline Advisors and the team of psychotherapists can offer advice, signposting and therapeutic support for the children, young people, parents and carers – please go to: https://helpline.barnardos.org.uk/ or email VAC’s Safeguarding Lead Dianne Carlton-Ogunyemi on dogunyemi@vac.org.uk for more information.

Food Support

Find your local food bank or community organisation providing food at findfood.camden.gov.uk.
If you don’t have internet access, please call Camden Council on 020 7974 4444 and select option 9
You can also donate at findfood.camden.gov.uk/donate

Keeping The Community Directory Up-to-date

As we enter Autumn lots is changing.  Buildings are starting to re-open, some activities are moving back into the real world, some food parcel deliveries have ended, while other food projects continue.  Help us to keep the directory up-to-date by updating your details as they change.
If you would like to make a new entry in the directory use this link.   If you would like to update an existing entry look out for an email from us early next week with a unique link for you to update.
View the Directory here.  View the map here.

How to Volunteer and How to Recruit Volunteers in Camden

Volunteer in Camden at Time to Spare.
Volunteer for the NHS at GoodSAM.
Join a neighbourhood Mutual Aid group.
Organisations that are signed up to Time to Spare can now request volunteers through a brokerage team making it much easier to access the volunteers. The brokers can help match volunteers with voluntary and community organisations who have a need for verified/ vetted volunteers. The service will also help to verify or carry out new DBS check with volunteers.
Get support and resources from Volunteer Centre Camden
The council has a  page of resources to help community organisations

Fully-funded university places with Camden Scholarships

Birkbeck, University of London  is offering two scholarship places to Camden residents for any of their undergraduate courses starting in October 2021. The deadline to apply is 25 June 2021.
Hult International Business School is offering Camden residents a fully-funded one-year postgraduate Master of International Business degree. The course starts in Sept 2021 and the deadline to apply is 21 May 2021. Full details here.

Request for Camden employers to provide 6 months’ work placements for 19-25 year olds

Camden Youth Pathways Finder project is looking for Camden employers to provide placement opportunities to young people at risk of/involved in youth violence (including remote working). Camden Council will pay the young person London Living Wage for the duration of the placement, provide ongoing pastoral care and support for both the organisation and young person and be a point of contact for any queries that may arise.
To register or to find out more, contact serrina.lobban@camden.gov.uk

Keep in touch and up-to-date via the e-bulletin and @onecamden twitter.  We have a comprehensive COVID-19 update page and a resources page.

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

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

Voluntary Action Forum

The recording, presentation, links and resources from Wednesday’s Voluntary Action Forum are all up on the VAC website here.

Covid-19 Community Response Survey

The voluntary sector has been working in partnership with the Council to provide support to Camden residents who are vulnerable and need support around food provision.  To help improve this partnership, please complete this Camden Council survey by 3rd February. The survey should not take more than 5-10 minutes and will be able to help the council to plan and promote support to residents in the forthcoming months.

Funding News

See the Funding section below for details of funding opportunities.

Digital Inclusion

Looking for devices? data?  Digital resources.  This guide is packed with useful links to help you get your members and users online.

Community Champions Camden

Find out more about the Community Champions programme.  A health and wellbeing project putting residents voices at the heart.
This will be a chance to meet other residents, hear about the project and share your ideas.  You can take the survey here.
Wednesday 3rd February at 11.30am and 5.30pm.
Register by contacting your local coordinator:
Kentish Town – James – 07979 756970 – james@elfridacamden.org.uk
Kilburn – Emelye – 0300 365 2003 – emelye@shakonline.co.uk
Regents Park Estate – Ellie – 07923 849 277 – ellie.rudd@fya.org.uk

Storage Space Needed for Refugee Organisation

Care4Calais, a charity predominantly set up to help refugees in northern France, is now helping thousands of asylum seekers here in the UK, since there is a huge backlog of applications due to the pandemic. As part of these efforts, they are collecting and distributing essential clothing and toiletries and need spaces to store and distribute them. Could anyone with a potential space (even temporary whilst lockdown is in place) please contact Jess Short at jess@care4calais.org or 07838703977.

Age UK Camden Information and Advice coffee mornings

Information and Advice team will be hosting three virtual coffee mornings on the following days between 11-12pm:
~ Wednesday 27th January
~ Wednesday 24th February
~ Wednesday 31st March
Each meeting will be hosted via Zoom. To join the January meeting, please follow this link
Meeting ID: 837 2165 2832  Passcode: 014913

Great Craft/Making activity for all ages

Add your name on Artwork to tell the story of our area – and help make a historical record while we are in lockdown!
First demo live session – join the Zoom on 27th January
We can arrange to send instruction packs.
More info here or for more contact: somerstownhistory@gmail.com

Request for Camden employers to provide 6 months’ work placements for 19-25 year olds

Camden Youth Pathways Finder project is looking for Camden employers to provide placement opportunities to young people at risk of/involved in youth violence (including remote working). Camden Council will pay the young person London Living Wage for the duration of the placement, provide ongoing pastoral care and support for both the organisation and young person and be a point of contact for any queries that may arise.
To register or to find out more, contact serrina.lobban@camden.gov.uk

Thriving Communities

The programme focusses on social prescribing and covid 19 related support delivered by the voluntary and community sector. VAC’s role is to work closely with our CVS / infrastructure counterparts in NCL, and co-produce and share learning through the Learning Together network. Information about the programme and the Thriving Communities learning opportunities are here.
Watch recordings of all webinars here.
There are still places available on Learning Together and the the closing date has also been extended to 25th January.   You can also sign up to the network and ideas hub and get access to free webinars and learning.

Newsletters

Healthwatch Camden
All Ways Network
West Euston Partnership
Visioning Camden 2030

Charity sector calls for emergency support package

Civil society leaders are once again calling on government to develop an emergency support package for the not-for-profit, charity and social enterprise sector.
Ahead of the government’s Budget statement in March, charity leaders are urging Rishi Sunak to urgently work with them to develop a package of financial support for #NeverMoreNeeded non-profit organisations.
The sector is facing an unprecedented hole in its finances – estimated to be at least £10bn for the year from the start of the crisis – due to the ongoing impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown restrictions.

Trust for London

The next funding application deadline is approaching on 1pm, 2 February 2021. If you would like to book an appointment to speak with a grant manager to discuss your application ahead of this deadline, the team would be happy to help. 30 minute slots are available from Tuesday 19 January up until the deadline for applications on Tuesday 2 February. Find the funding guidelines here.

The Hampstead Wells and Campden Trust Covid-19 Emergency Fund

The fund is open for applications until 30th March 2021. The fund will provide small grants of up to £2,000 to organisations in the Trust’s Area of Benefit (see website) to support vulnerable individuals and families swiftly and effectively during the current lockdown. The Trust expects grants to be used for food, clothing, utility bills and materials for home schooling or for any other urgent need intensified by the pandemic. No application form is required and details of how to apply are on their website www.hwct.org.uk. Please contact the Trust’s Grants Officer: joanna@hwct.co.uk if you would like to discuss applying for this fund.

London Community Response Wave 5

There are 2 strands – a crisis response programme of grants of up to £10k – with a quick turnaround to ensure that urgent needs are met. And a programme of larger, longer-term ‘Renewal’ grants (up to £50K) which will focus on supporting the needs of civil society in the year ahead. Full guidance for applicants on both strands on the London Community Response website.  Also see our presentation to the Voluntary Action Forum for further details.

Comic Relief and Paul Hamlyn Foundation launch £1m digital development fund

The fund offers grants of up to £70,000.  It aims to support UK non-profits to test and develop digital service delivery solutions.
The fund is part of their joint Tech for Good programme. Applications close at 12pm on 12 February 2021.  Full details here.

Community Led Recovery Grants.

There are two grant streams:
~ Community-Led Action Grant: up to £9,000 to initiate social action projects
~ London Community Story Grant: grants of up to £1,500 to organisations with existing projects which capture Londoner’s experience of COVID-19, supporting them to be presented and shared to a wider audience.
Deadline for applications 12pm Friday 19th February 2021.   Details here.  Or email CommunityLedRecovery@groundwork.org.uk  or phone 020 7239 1390.

YCF Heads Up Mental Health Fund (Round 2)

£1,000 – £5,000 Deadline: 25 Jan 2021
Young Camden Foundation Heads Up Mental Health Fund is to support local community organisations with safeguarding the mental health and wellbeing of children, young people and youth workers during the pandemic.
A YCF/ Healthwatch Camden survey showed that 70% of young people found their mental health is affected by the pandemic.  Deadline  25 January.

£500K Windrush Community Fund Opens For Bids

Charities working with people affected by the Windrush scandal can apply for grants to spread awareness of a government compensation scheme.
The Windrush Community Fund will be managed by Voice4Change England (V4CE), and will make grants of up to £25,000 to charities, community groups and grassroots organisations.
Those grants can be used to raise levels of engagement with the government’s Windrush Scheme and Windrush Compensation Scheme.

Leathersellers’ Small Grants

The Leathersellers’ Company has a fast track application process for one-off grants of up to £3,000. It could be particularly useful for funding small projects or to cover unexpected costs arising from COVID-19. Applications are open to registered charities with an income of under £200,000.   You must be in an area of high deprivation.  Details at the Leathersellers’ Small Grants Programme.

£4m Fund to Help Reduce Loneliness

closes on 26 January 2021.
This is for small VCS organisations with an annual income of £50,000 or less.
Grants of between £300 and £2,500 are to:
• Build relationships in and across communities to help reduce loneliness and build connections between people and communities
• Bring together organisations who are working on social connections to celebrate their work, share learning and best practice, and form/bring together peer networks. Further details here.

National Lottery Community Fund Re-Opens Regular Funding Programmes

Applications for all three programmes are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Return to Play Fund

The Return to Play Fund will support groups, clubs and organisations who’ve been impacted by restrictions brought in to tackle the pandemic.
£10m – Return to Play: Small Grants. £300 and £10,000
£5m – Return to Play:  £10,001 to £50,000.
£1.5m – Return to Play: Active Together. crowdfunding initiative
Find out more about each of the funds at the Sport England website.

Catherine Capaldi Awards

Elfrida Rathbone Camden are delighted to announce that the Catherine Capaldi Awards are open for applications.  These awards are open to anyone who identifies as a disabled person and who has an idea or solution to break down a barrier faced by disabled people or to improve their access to services, inclusion or community participation.  More information and how to enter here.

Lists of Emergency Funders

• Civil Society
• Ian McLintok’s LinkedIn blog
• NCVO’s funding central site is currently free for non-members.
• Charity Bank 
• Grants Online

VAC Events

Keep in eye on our Events Calendar to book and for more info.

Camden Voluntary Action Forum

The forum is open to all Camden voluntary and community  groups and organisations, community activists, social entrepreneurs, volunteers and anyone interested in local voluntary action. The Forum currently meets monthly online on the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 11am.
The recording and presentation from the Wed 20th Jan Forum is available here.
The next Forum is on Wednesday 24th February

Past Voluntary Action Forums: Resources

You can find presentations, recordings and resources from past forums here.

Safeguarding Courses:

Check back for details of upcoming courses

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

Cultural Arts and Social Prescribing

Are you a cultural practitioner who feels a little like ‘Cinderella’ when it comes to Social Prescribing or a Link worker who would like to know more about offering arts and creativity to the people you work with?
London Plus and London Action Arts and Health are holding an event which aims to bring together voluntary organisations and Link workers in London.
Weds 27 January, 14.00 – 15.30.  More details and register here.

The Catherine Capaldi Awards – workshop

Elfrida Rathbone Camden are organising the Catherine Capaldi Awards to be awarded to disabled people who have come up with solutions to issues or ideas on how to break down barriers.
In partnership with Arup’s Access and Inclusive Environments Team,  workshops support potential applicants with their application.
Thursday 11 February at 11am –  via Zoom.
The aim of these workshops is to:
• Support applicants to shape and refine their ideas.
• Guide applicants through the form, and to answer any specific questions.
To attend, or for more info, please contact catherine@elfridacamden.org.u

UCL Social Hackathons

Hackathons are one-day events in which you get a group of UCL students to come up with solutions to benefit your organisation.  If successful in your application, you will then receive £500 funding from us to help turn any ideas you think are feasible into a reality. Social Hackathons are running Monday 15th February to Friday 19th February, from 10am-4pm and will be held for one day online over Zoom.
If you want to apply to take part, please do so here by Monday 18th January.

Ageing Better in Camden – Social Connectedness & Belonging

10.00 – 11.30am, Thursday, 28th January
Hear about new research exploring the theme of ‘belonging’, which looks at how our local project partners have built connections and a sense of belonging within their communities.
Charting the experiences of participants prior to Covid-19, the report looks at the way projects adapted through the pandemic to support those at risk of loneliness and social isolation, pulling together recommendations for policy makers, funders and service providers. Sign up for free via Eventbrite.

Rethink Training

Rethink Mental Illness training partnership with the London Boroughs of Camden & Islington councils.  Rethink provides online course to organisations free of charge and also runs courses that are open to individuals.
Full details on the Rethink website.

Camden Safeguarding Children Partnership

Multi-agency online training programme Spring Term 2020-21
A full programme of multi-agency safeguarding training on zoom and teams.
To book onto the free training, please visit the Partnerships’s website. You will be required to register an account if you haven’t done so already.

Domestic violence and abuse online workshop

Introduction to domestic violence and abuse e-learning
This e-learning is intended for everyone that would like to gain an awareness on domestic violence and abuse. It will provide you with an introduction to what the types and signs of abuse are, how to respond and what actions to take.
Access the e-learning via the L&D Hub if you already have an account. If you are from a VCS organisation without an account please find details here  to sign-up for an account on the L&D Hub.

3 Job Vacancies at Henna Asian Women’s Group

Project Worker for 3 days (21 hours) a week until 31st March 2021.
Pay is £11 per hour.
Fundraiser – 1 day a week
Salary £35, 353 per annum pro rata
Closing date for both posts is Thursday 21st January 2021 at 5pm. Interviews on w/c Monday 25th January 2021.
Also recruiting new trustees with knowledge/expertise in law, finance or HR. Closing date 1st February 2021
To register an interest and for further details, please contact Momota Khatoon through Momota@hennaorg.co.uk
Also recruiting an experienced Project & Operations Manager
To apply please submit your CV in Word format and a supporting statement (2 sides of A4 max.) highlighting how your skills and experience meet the job description to trustees@hennaorg.co.uk

Volunteers Needed – Story tellers/ actors

Are you a good Storyteller and able to address a young audience?
We need speakers to future story times
Contact somerstownhistory@gmail.com for more details

Work Experience Opportunity for Young Person (15 – 18 years)

Work Experience (virtual) with Prestigious Knowledge Quarter partners
February Half term
Design an Exhibition on Local heroes Radical thinkers.  More details here.

Lifting Limits seeks Head of Education

Lifting Limits is looking for an experienced primary school practitioner with leadership experience and understanding of the primary school sector for a new senior role as Head of Education.  We are a charity with a mission to challenge gender stereotyping and promote gender equality, in and through education, and the Head of Education will help us build on our positive impact so far and scale our model to reach significant numbers of schools.
£45,000 p.a. pro rata. part time, 3 days (or equivalent hours) per week
Deadline for applications: 15th February.
For full details at https://www.liftinglimits.org.uk/contact-us/

Opening Doors Befriending Support Officer

You will be responsible for supporting befriending relationships and helping develop the service –  triaging new referrals to the service, liaising with existing clients by phone or in person in their homes (not currently) and making referrals to external support services. You will support the recruitment, development, placement and ongoing support of volunteers within the service. You will also be responsible for reaching out to minority or under-represented communities who may not be aware of the ODL Befriending Service.
See website for full requirements. Please email you completed Application form to: jobs@openingdoorslondon.org.uk

Hopscotch Homecare urgently need Care Workers.

Hopscotch Homecare are a very caring,well-established and expanding care agency that has been providing care workers to clients in and around Camden for 20 years. We are looking for care workers who would like to help our clients to continue living safely and independently in their own homes.
Day/Night hours available and must be able to work at least two late shifts a week and alternate weekends  Contact:recruitment@hopscotchawc.org.uk

Unity Works Seeks Trustees

Unity Works, part of the charitable Thera Group, is a specialist organisation supporting people with a learning disability to gain skills, qualifications and jobs, so they can reach their full potential. The new organisation, which was developed from The Camden Society, builds on 20 years of experience of helping hundreds of people with a learning disability to secure jobs through volunteering and training opportunities.
Call Tarnya Thompson on 07595 200476 or email mailto:Tarnya.Thompson@thera.co.uk for an informal discussion.

Census Job opportunities

The next census is in 2021 and the Office of National Statistics is hiring for new local Census jobs, with applications invited for exciting new temporary roles at all levels.
All the current openings, application information and FAQs are on censusjobs.co.uk
For more information about the 2021 Census and local communities click here.

Paid work opportunities for people who have been laid off/ reduced income

Local Adult social care providers are still recruiting, and as they support the NHS to move vulnerable adults out of hospital to stay well at home, their need is growing. Contact Proud to Care.

Telling Your Covid Stories

At the September forum we discussed how to tell the story of the sector’s responded to the pandemic  – so we are collecting your stories about how you responded.  The responses will be used to tell the story of how vital the sector is in supporting Camden through these challenging times.  You can click here https://www.tfaforms.com/4863725 to put your story in writing or contact Len Lauk (llauk@vac.org.uk) if you would prefer to be interviewed.

Lateral Flow Testing (quick test) for VCS frontline staff and volunteers

‘Lateral flow’ COVID-19 tests are available for all in frontline roles who have regular face-to-face contact with communities, and who do not have any coronavirus symptoms.
Appointments are available at two test sites (Crowndale Library and Swiss Cottage Library) every weekday from 9am to 5pm. Book here.  If your organisation is not on the system, add the name in the notes’ box.

Boloh Helpline for BAME Families

Barnardo’s has launched a new helpline where you can talk about your worries, problems and stresses during this time with new helpline Boloh, which provides emotional support, practical advice and signposting to other organisations who can provide further help.
If you know of any families requiring therapeutic support or vouchers to purchase food or clothing, please refer them to the helpline by calling: 0800 151 2605.
For more information on how the Boloh Helpline Advisors and the team of psychotherapists can offer advice, signposting and therapeutic support for the children, young people, parents and carers – please go to: https://helpline.barnardos.org.uk/ or email VAC’s Safeguarding Lead Dianne Carlton-Ogunyemi on dogunyemi@vac.org.uk for more information.

Food Support

Find your local food bank or community organisation providing food at findfood.camden.gov.uk.
If you don’t have internet access, please call Camden Council on 020 7974 4444 and select option 9
You can also donate at findfood.camden.gov.uk/donate

Keeping The Community Directory Up-to-date

As we enter Autumn lots is changing.  Buildings are starting to re-open, some activities are moving back into the real world, some food parcel deliveries have ended, while other food projects continue.  Help us to keep the directory up-to-date by updating your details as they change.
If you would like to make a new entry in the directory use this link.   If you would like to update an existing entry look out for an email from us early next week with a unique link for you to update.
View the Directory here.  View the map here.

How to Volunteer and How to Recruit Volunteers in Camden

Volunteer in Camden at Time to Spare.
Volunteer for the NHS at GoodSAM.
Join a neighbourhood Mutual Aid group.
Organisations that are signed up to Time to Spare can now request volunteers through a brokerage team making it much easier to access the volunteers. The brokers can help match volunteers with voluntary and community organisations who have a need for verified/ vetted volunteers. The service will also help to verify or carry out new DBS check with volunteers.
Get support and resources from Volunteer Centre Camden
The council has a  page of resources to help community organisations

Fully-funded university places with Camden Scholarships

Birkbeck, University of London  is offering two scholarship places to Camden residents for any of their undergraduate courses starting in October 2021. The deadline to apply is 25 June 2021.
Hult International Business School is offering Camden residents a fully-funded one-year postgraduate Master of International Business degree. The course starts in Sept 2021 and the deadline to apply is 21 May 2021. Full details here.

Keep in touch and up-to-date via the e-bulletin and @onecamden twitter.  We have a comprehensive COVID-19 update page and a resources page.

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

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

Lateral Flow Testing (quick test) for VCS frontline staff and volunteers

‘Lateral flow’ COVID-19 tests are available for all in frontline roles who have regular face-to-face contact with communities, and who do not have any coronavirus symptoms.
Appointments are available at two test sites (Crowndale Library and Swiss Cottage Library) every weekday from 9am to 5pm. Book here.  If your organisation is not on the system, add the name in the notes’ box.

BAME Bereavement Support

Bereavement Support Service provided by Nafsiyat Intercultural Therapy Centre. Offering therapeutic support in over 20 different languages and is committed to providing Covid-19 bereavement support to people from Black, Asian and other minority ethnic (BAME) communities. Details here.

Funding News

London Community Response Wave 5 is open. Young Camden Foundation’s Heads Up Mental Health Fund (Round 2) closes 25 January.  Hampstead Wells and Campden Trust have launched a small grants fund. The Mayor has launched small schemes under the title Community Led Recovery. A new Tech for Good fund has launched  – grants up to £70K. See Funding section below.

The Catherine Capaldi Awards – workshop

Elfrida Rathbone Camden are organising the Catherine Capaldi Awards to be awarded to disabled people who have come up with solutions to issues or ideas on how to break down barriers.
In partnership with Arup’s Access and Inclusive Environments Team, we will be delivering workshops to support potential applicants with their application.  The next workshop will be held on Thursday 21 January at 11am –  via Zoom.
The aim of these workshops is to:
• Support applicants to shape and refine their ideas.
• Guide applicants through the form, and to answer any specific questions.
To attend, or for more info, please contact catherine@elfridacamden.org.uk

UCL Social Hackathons

Hackathons are one-day events in which you get a group of UCL students to come up with solutions to benefit your organisation.  If successful in your application, you will then receive £500 funding from us to help turn any ideas you think are feasible into a reality. Our Social Hackathons are running Monday 15th February to Friday 19th February, from 10am-4pm and will be held for one day online over Zoom.
If you want to apply to take part, please do so here by Monday 18th January.

Ageing Better in Camden – Social Connectedness & Belonging

10.00 – 11.30am, Thursday, 28th January
Hear about new research exploring the theme of ‘belonging’, which looks at how our local project partners have built connections and a sense of belonging within their communities.
Charting the experiences of participants prior to Covid-19, the report looks at the way projects adapted through the pandemic to support those at risk of loneliness and social isolation, pulling together recommendations for policy makers, funders and service providers. Sign up for free via Eventbrite.

Workshops for Young People

A small group of local young people have designed an online workshop for other young people who love, study or work in Camden and Islington. The workshops are taking place on Monday 18th January 2021 and are open to everybody under the age of 25. They will focus on shaping the future of local sexual health services. A £10 voucher of your choice can be claimed for taking part.
Contact angela@livedexperiencematters.org.uk 07919 096494 to register.

Pascal Theatre Company welcomes London women to share stories in an online storybook

Pascal Theatre Company are offering women a stimulating creative outlet. We would very much like to reach disabled, BAME, refugee women of all ages and those suffering disabilities as a result of ageing.
The project, funded by City Bridge Trust, involves participants choosing a photo (or other prompt) that has some significance to them and sharing the story behind the photo that will form part of an online storybook to be launched in the spring. Contact – sally@pascal-theatre.com

Thriving Communities

The programme focusses on social prescribing and covid 19 related support delivered by the voluntary and community sector. VAC’s role is to work closely with our CVS / infrastructure counterparts in north central London and local VCS organisations, and co-produce and share learning through the Learning Together network. Updated information about the programme and access to Thriving Communities learning opportunities are here.   Webinars include:
1. ‘How to Get your Service Commissioned’ – Tuesday 19th January Details.
2. You can watch recordings of all webinars here.
There are still places available on Learning Together and the the closing date has also been extended to 25th January.   You can also sign up to the network and ideas hub and get access to free webinars and learning.

Maths on Toast seeks Community Partners

Maths on Toast, the family maths charity is looking for suitable partners in Camden.  Maths on Toast supports families with children aged 5 – 12 who may not have access to resources at home, and are looking for a way to take the stress and pressure out of home learning.  We’d like to work in partnership with grassroots community groups to make sure that the packs are reaching the target families.  Contact Niki@mathsontoast.org.uk   tel: 020 7613 8389

Fully-funded university places with Camden Scholarships

Birkbeck, University of London  is offering two scholarship places to Camden residents for any of their undergraduate courses starting in October 2021. The deadline to apply is 25 June 2021.
Hult International Business School is offering Camden residents a fully-funded one-year postgraduate Master of International Business degree. The course starts in Sept 2021 and the deadline to apply is 21 May 2021. Full details here.

Newsletters

Healthwatch Camden
All Ways Network
West Euston Partnership
Visioning Camden 2030

Insurers Forced to Honour Business Continuity Claims

Tens of thousands are set to receive insurance payouts covering losses from the first national lockdown, following a court ruling.
The Supreme Court found in favour of small firms receiving payments from business interruption insurance policies.
The City watchdog, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), brought the test case, with eight insurers agreeing to take part in proceedings.  As many as 60 insurers sold similar products.  Contact your insurance company if your original claim was turned down.  Full story at BBC.

The Hampstead Wells and Campden Trust Covid-19 Emergency Fund

The fund is open for applications until 30th March 2021. The fund will provide small grants of up to £2,000 to organisations in the Trust’s Area of Benefit (see website) to support vulnerable individuals and families swiftly and effectively during the current lockdown. The Trust expects grants to be used for food, clothing, utility bills and materials for home schooling or for any other urgent need intensified by the pandemic. No application form is required and details of how to apply are on their website www.hwct.org.uk. Please contact the Trust’s Grants Officer: joanna@hwct.co.uk if you would like to discuss applying for this fund.

London Community Response Wave 5

There are 2 strands – a crisis response programme of grants of up to £10k – with a quick turnaround to ensure that urgent needs are met. And a programme of larger, longer-term ‘Renewal’ grants (up to £50K) which will focus on supporting the needs of civil society in the year ahead. Full guidance for applicants on both strands on the London Community Response website.

Comic Relief and Paul Hamlyn Foundation launch £1m digital development fund

The fund offers grants of up to £70,000.  It aims to support UK non-profits to test and develop digital service delivery solutions.
The fund is part of their joint Tech for Good programme. Applications close at 12pm on 12 February 2021.  Full details here.

Community Led Recovery Grants.

There are two grant streams:
~ Community-Led Action Grant: up to £9,000 to initiate social action projects
~ London Community Story Grant: grants of up to £1,500 to organisations with existing projects which capture Londoner’s experience of COVID-19, supporting them to be presented and shared to a wider audience.
Deadline for applications 12pm Friday 19th February 2021.   Details here.  Or email CommunityLedRecovery@groundwork.org.uk  or phone 020 7239 1390.

YCF Heads Up Mental Health Fund (Round 2)

£1,000 – £5,000 Deadline: 25 Jan 2021
Young Camden Foundation Heads Up Mental Health Fund is to support local community organisations with safeguarding the mental health and wellbeing of children, young people and youth workers during the pandemic.
A YCF/ Healthwatch Camden survey showed that 70% of young people found their mental health is affected by the pandemic.  Deadline  25 January.

£500K Windrush Community Fund Opens For Bids

Charities working with people affected by the Windrush scandal can apply for grants to spread awareness of a government compensation scheme.
The Windrush Community Fund will be managed by Voice4Change England (V4CE), and will make grants of up to £25,000 to charities, community groups and grassroots organisations.
Those grants can be used to raise levels of engagement with the government’s Windrush Scheme and Windrush Compensation Scheme.

Leathersellers’ Small Grants

The Leathersellers’ Company has a fast track application process for one-off grants of up to £3,000. It could be particularly useful for funding small projects or to cover unexpected costs arising from COVID-19. Applications are open to registered charities with an income of under £200,000.   You must be in an area of high deprivation.  Details at the Leathersellers’ Small Grants Programme.

£4m Fund to Help Reduce Loneliness

Applications open on 5 January 2021 and close on 26 January 2021.
This is for small VCS organisations with an annual income of £50,000 or less.
Grants of between £300 and £2,500 are to:
• Build relationships in and across communities to help reduce loneliness and build connections between people and communities
• Bring together organisations who are working on social connections to celebrate their work, share learning and best practice, and form/bring together peer networks. Further details here.

National Lottery Community Fund Re-Opens Regular Funding Programmes

Applications for all three programmes are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Return to Play Fund

The Return to Play Fund will support groups, clubs and organisations who’ve been impacted by restrictions brought in to tackle the pandemic.
£10m – Return to Play: Small Grants. £300 and £10,000
£5m – Return to Play:  £10,001 to £50,000.
£1.5m – Return to Play: Active Together. crowdfunding initiative
Find out more about each of the funds at the Sport England website.

Catherine Capaldi Awards

Elfrida Rathbone Camden are delighted to announce that the Catherine Capaldi Awards are open for applications.  These awards are open to anyone who identifies as a disabled person and who has an idea or solution to break down a barrier faced by disabled people or to improve their access to services, inclusion or community participation.  More information and how to enter here.

Lists of Emergency Funders

• Civil Society
• Ian McLintok’s LinkedIn blog
• NCVO’s funding central site is currently free for non-members.
• Charity Bank 
• Grants Online

VAC Events

Keep in eye on our Events Calendar to book and for more info.

Camden Voluntary Action Forum

The forum is open to all Camden voluntary and community  groups and organisations, community activists, social entrepreneurs, volunteers and anyone interested in local voluntary action. The Forum currently meets monthly online on the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 11am.
The next forum is on Wed 20th January.  Full details and booking here.

Past Voluntary Action Forums: Resources

You can find presentations, recordings and resources from past forums here. Including the recent forum on why neighbourhoods matter.

Safeguarding Courses:

Check back for details of upcoming courses

Our safeguarding Lead Dianne Carlton-Ogunyemi talks to Jane Murphy from Camden Learning and Suzie Yassin from the National Resource Centre for Supplementary Education (NRCSE) about what the guidance means for you and how it can help you create a safer environment for children.  Listen here.

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

Yes, Cultural Arts – You shall go to the Ball

Are you a cultural practitioner who feels a little like ‘Cinderella’ when it comes to Social Prescribing or a Link worker who would like to know more about offering arts and creativity to the people you work with?
London Plus and London Action Arts and Health are holding an event which aims to bring together voluntary organisations and Link workers in London.
Weds 27 January, 14.00 – 15.30.  More details and register here.

Rethink Training

Rethink Mental Illness training partnership with the London Boroughs of Camden & Islington councils.  Rethink provides online course to organisations free of charge and also runs courses that are open to individuals.
Full details on the Rethink website.

Exercise with Ana

Inviting women who are lacking mental and physical stimulation during lockdown and suffering the consequences to enjoy free Latin Dance & Gentle Movement classes on Zoom
Latin Dance: Mondays at 10
Gentle Exercise: Wednesdays at 10.30
See videos at: www.pascal-theatre.com/project/exercise-with-ana/
questions or register email sally@pascal-theatre.com or text 075 968 16939

Active Hope Leadership Training

A four month journey of revitalisation and empowerment for London-based change-makers, activists and community leaders
The next journey runs from February – May 2021.  Applications are now open.
more info: https://www.activehope.london/leadership-training

Camden Safeguarding Children Partnership

Multi-agency online training programme Spring Term 2020-21
A full programme of multi-agency safeguarding training on zoom and teams.
To book onto the free training, please visit the Partnerships’s website. You will be required to register an account if you haven’t done so already.

Domestic violence and abuse online workshop

Introduction to domestic violence and abuse e-learning
This e-learning is intended for everyone that would like to gain an awareness on domestic violence and abuse. It will provide you with an introduction to what the types and signs of abuse are, how to respond and what actions to take.
Access the e-learning via the L&D Hub if you already have an account. If you are from a VCS organisation without an account please find details here  to sign-up for an account on the L&D Hub.

3 Job Vacancies at Henna Asian Women’s Group

Project Worker for 3 days (21 hours) a week until 31st March 2021.
Pay is £11 per hour.
Fundraiser – 1 day a week
Salary £35, 353 per annum pro rata
Closing date for both posts is Thursday 21st January 2021 at 5pm. Interviews on w/c Monday 25th January 2021.
Also recruiting new trustees with knowledge/expertise in law, finance or HR. Closing date 1st February 2021
To register an interest and for further details, please contact Momota Khatoon through Momota@hennaorg.co.uk
Also recruiting an experienced Project & Operations Manager
To apply please submit your CV in Word format and a supporting statement (2 sides of A4 max.) highlighting how your skills and experience meet the job description to trustees@hennaorg.co.uk

Unity Works Seeks Trustees

Unity Works, part of the charitable Thera Group, is a specialist organisation supporting people with a learning disability to gain skills, qualifications and jobs, so they can reach their full potential. The new organisation, which was developed from The Camden Society, builds on 20 years of experience of helping hundreds of people with a learning disability to secure jobs through volunteering and training opportunities.
Call Tarnya Thompson on 07595 200476 or email mailto:Tarnya.Thompson@thera.co.uk for an informal discussion.

Census Job opportunities

The next census is in 2021 and the Office of National Statistics is hiring for new local Census jobs, with applications invited for exciting new temporary roles at all levels.
All the current openings, application information and FAQs are on censusjobs.co.uk
For more information about the 2021 Census and local communities click here.

Paid work opportunities for people who have been laid off/ reduced income

Local Adult social care providers are still recruiting, and as they support the NHS to move vulnerable adults out of hospital to stay well at home, their need is growing. Contact Proud to Care.

Telling Your Covid Stories

At the September forum we discussed how to tell the story of the sector’s responded to the pandemic  – so we are collecting your stories about how you responded.  The responses will be used to tell the story of how vital the sector is in supporting Camden through these challenging times.  You can click here https://www.tfaforms.com/4863725 to put your story in writing or contact Len Lauk (llauk@vac.org.uk) if you would prefer to be interviewed.

Food Support

Find your local food bank or community organisation providing food at findfood.camden.gov.uk.
If you don’t have internet access, please call Camden Council on 020 7974 4444 and select option 9
You can also donate at findfood.camden.gov.uk/donate

Keeping The Community Directory Up-to-date

As we enter Autumn lots is changing.  Buildings are starting to re-open, some activities are moving back into the real world, some food parcel deliveries have ended, while other food projects continue.  Help us to keep the directory up-to-date by updating your details as they change.
If you would like to make a new entry in the directory use this link.   If you would like to update an existing entry look out for an email from us early next week with a unique link for you to update.
View the Directory here.  View the map here.

How to Volunteer and How to Recruit Volunteers in Camden

Volunteer in Camden at Time to Spare.
Volunteer for the NHS at GoodSAM.
Join a neighbourhood Mutual Aid group.
Organisations that are signed up to Time to Spare can now request volunteers through a brokerage team making it much easier to access the volunteers. The brokers can help match volunteers with voluntary and community organisations who have a need for verified/ vetted volunteers. The service will also help to verify or carry out new DBS check with volunteers.
Get support and resources from Volunteer Centre Camden
The council has a  page of resources to help community organisations

Keep in touch and up-to-date via the e-bulletin and @onecamden twitter.  We have a comprehensive COVID-19 update page and a resources page.

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

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

Vaccine Volunteers

As the NHS gears up for mass vaccination volunteers will be needed to help with the effort.  Local volunteers are being recruited as needed by Health Centres, GPs and PCNs.  Look out for local recruitment calls.
Larger numbers will be required in due course as mass vaccination centres are set up.  For now, potential volunteers should register on Time to Spare or register as a steward volunteer on the Red Cross GoodSam website.
(Above – that’s Mandira and Sharon volunteering over Christmas).

Funding News

London Community Response Wave 4 opens next week. Young Camden Foundation’s Heads Up Mental Health Fund (Round 2) is now open.  The Windrush Community Fund is open for bids to spread awareness of the government compensation scheme. See Funding section below.

Light and Hope Memorial Website

This year has brought grief, loss and uncertainty to many across Camden. The virtual Light and Hope memorial brings us together to reflect, remember and honour those who have lost their lives.  You can share your tributes, memories and reflections here.

Extra data to support disadvantaged children

This scheme temporarily increases data allowances for mobile phone users on certain networks. This is so that children and young people can access remote education if their face-to-face education is disrupted.
You may also be able to access free Camden Wifi.  Check the map for details.

Thriving Communities

VAC is the lead organisation for the North Central London (NCL) area in the Thriving Communities Programme. The programme focusses on social prescribing and covid 19 related support delivered by the voluntary and community sector, and is being delivered through the National Academy for Social Prescribing.
VAC’s role is to work closely with our CVS / infrastructure counterparts in north central London and local VCS organisations, and co-produce and share learning through the Learning Together network. Updated information about the programme and access to Thriving Communities learning opportunities can be found here.   There are still places available on Learning Together and the the closing date has also been extended to 25th January.   You can also sign up to the network and ideas hub and get access to free webinars and learning.

Yes, Cultural Arts – You shall go to the Ball

Are you a cultural practitioner who feels a little like ‘Cinderella’ when it comes to Social Prescribing or a Link worker who would like to know more about offering arts and creativity to the people you work with?
London Plus and London Action Arts and Health are holding an event which aims to bring together voluntary organisations and Link workers in London.
Weds 27 January, 14.00 – 15.30.  More details and register here.

Food Support

Find your local food bank or community organisation providing food at findfood.camden.gov.uk.
If you don’t have internet access, please call Camden Council on 020 7974 4444 and select option 9
You can also donate at findfood.camden.gov.uk/donate

Community Journalists at Camden Disability Action

Camden Disability Action has started an exciting new Community Journalism training programme for Disabled people in Camden.
The training supports people to use texts, voicemails, videos, photos, chat-app messages and emails to tell powerful stories about things that are happening in our communities, like the Covid-19 streetscape changes.
If you are a Disabled person and live, work, study or volunteer in Camden get in touch to join the next course. You will get support if you have access needs.
Contact Tom McDonough  tom@camdendisabilityaction.org.uk  07908746927

London Community Response Wave 4 opens next week

There will be a crisis response programme of grants of up to £10k – with a quick turnaround to ensure that urgent needs are met. And there will also be a programme of larger, longer-term ‘Renewal’ grants which will focus on supporting the needs of civil society in the year ahead. Full guidance for applicants on both strands will be published next week.
Webinar to find out more about this funding on 13th January.  Sign up here.

YCF Heads Up Mental Health Fund (Round 2)

£1,000 – £5,000 Deadline: 25 Jan 2021
Young Camden Foundation Heads Up Mental Health Fund is to support local community organisations with safeguarding the mental health and wellbeing of children, young people and youth workers during the pandemic.
A YCF/ Healthwatch Camden survey showed that 70% of young people found their mental health is affected by the pandemic.  Deadline  25 January.

£500K Windrush Community Fund Opens For Bids

Charities working with people affected by the Windrush scandal can apply for grants to spread awareness of a government compensation scheme.
The Windrush Community Fund will be managed by Voice4Change England (V4CE), and will make grants of up to £25,000 to charities, community groups and grassroots organisations.
Those grants can be used to raise levels of engagement with the government’s Windrush Scheme and Windrush Compensation Scheme.

Leathersellers’ Small Grants

The Leathersellers’ Company has a fast track application process for one-off grants of up to £3,000. It could be particularly useful for funding small projects or to cover unexpected costs arising from COVID-19. Applications are open to registered charities with an income of under £200,000.   You must be in an area of high deprivation.  Details at the Leathersellers’ Small Grants Programme.

Culture Recovery Fund for Heritage – Round Two

The Culture Recovery Fund is for cultural and heritage organisations to make the transition from lockdowns and social distancing to resume business activity and welcome visitors back in April 2021. Applications will be accepted from heritage organisations in England that are at risk of no longer trading viably this financial year.  Deadline 21st January.

£4m Fund to Help Reduce Loneliness

Applications open on 5 January 2021 and close on 26 January 2021.
This is for small VCS organisations with an annual income of £50,000 or less.
Grants of between £300 and £2,500 are to:
• Build relationships in and across communities to help reduce loneliness and build connections between people and communities
• Bring together organisations who are working on social connections to celebrate their work, share learning and best practice, and form/bring together peer networks. Further details here.

National Lottery Community Fund Re-Opens Regular Funding Programmes

Applications for all three programmes are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Launch of Civil Society Roots Incubator

This round of funding will be targeted at collaborations and/or partnerships led by and for groups who have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19, and the structural drivers of this disproportionate impact.  Full details here.  Closing Tuesday 26 January 2021

Return to Play Fund

The Return to Play Fund will support groups, clubs and organisations who’ve been impacted by restrictions brought in to tackle the pandemic.
£10m – Return to Play: Small Grants. £300 and £10,000
£5m – Return to Play:  £10,001 to £50,000.
£1.5m – Return to Play: Active Together. crowdfunding initiative
Find out more about each of the funds at the Sport England website.

Catherine Capaldi Awards

Elfrida Rathbone Camden are delighted to announce that the Catherine Capaldi Awards are open for applications.  These awards are open to anyone who identifies as a disabled person and who has an idea or solution to break down a barrier faced by disabled people or to improve their access to services, inclusion or community participation.  More information and how to enter here.

Support Grant for Organisations with Premises

The Local Restrictions Support Grant (LRSG) supports businesses (including charities) that were open as usual, providing services in person to customers from their business premises, but which were then required to close for at least 3 weeks due to local lockdown restrictions imposed by government.
There is a good briefing for the VCS from Charity Tax Group
Key requirements are the premises were “required to close for at least 3 weeks because of the lockdown” and “unable to provide its usual in-person customer service from its premises”.  There is some discretion including for organisations that don’t pay business rates.  Camden’s guidance is now out.

Lists of Emergency Funders

• Civil Society
• Ian McLintok’s LinkedIn blog
• NCVO’s funding central site is currently free for non-members.
• Charity Bank 
• Grants Online

VAC Events

Keep in eye on our Events Calendar to book and for more info.

Camden Voluntary Action Forum

The forum is open to all Camden voluntary and community  groups and organisations, community activists, social entrepreneurs, volunteers and anyone interested in local voluntary action. The Forum currently meets monthly online on the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 11am.
BAME disproportionality  follow up forum (date tbc)

Past Voluntary Action Forums: Resources

You can find presentations, recordings and resources from past forums here. Including the recent forum on why neighbourhoods matter.

Safeguarding Courses:

Virtual Introduction to Safeguarding for Trustees
Tuesday, 12 January 2021 at 10:00 am – 11:30 am    Book Here
There has never been a better time to make sure your organisation is doing all it can to protect children and young people at risk.
For information on upcoming courses contact Dianne:
Tel: 020 7 284 6575 | Email: dogunyemi@vac.org.uk email (Mon – Wed)

Our safeguarding Lead Dianne Carlton-Ogunyemi talks to Jane Murphy from Camden Learning and Suzie Yassin from the National Resource Centre for Supplementary Education (NRCSE) about what the guidance means for you and how it can help you create a safer environment for children.  Listen here.

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

Exercise with Ana

Inviting women who are lacking mental and physical stimulation during lockdown and suffering the consequences to enjoy free Latin Dance & Gentle Movement classes on Zoom
Latin Dance: Mondays at 10
Gentle Exercise: Wednesdays at 10.30
See videos at: www.pascal-theatre.com/project/exercise-with-ana/
questions or register email sally@pascal-theatre.com or text 075 968 16939

Rethink Training

Rethink Mental Illness training partnership with the London Boroughs of Camden & Islington councils.  Rethink provides online course to organisations free of charge and also runs courses that are open to individuals.
Full details on the Rethink website.

Media Arts Club at October Gallery – Spoken Word & Digital Arts

Media Arts Club is open to all young people aged 13 – 24 years old who want to take part in exciting, hands on media arts projects. It’s a chance for young people to learn new digital and creative skills and create their own work, supported by professional artists.
Every Monday evening, 6-7.30pm at the October Gallery starting 11th January and running until 22nd March (term-time). Sessions may be online if necessary.
Book online, or by emailing chloe.plumb@holborncommunity.co.uk

Active Hope Leadership Training

A four month journey of revitalisation and empowerment for London-based change-makers, activists and community leaders
The next journey runs from February – May 2021.  Applications are now open.
more info: https://www.activehope.london/leadership-training

Camden Safeguarding Children Partnership

Multi-agency online training programme Spring Term 2020-21
A full programme of multi-agency safeguarding training on zoom and teams.
To book onto the free training, please visit the Partnerships’s website. You will be required to register an account if you haven’t done so already.

Domestic violence and abuse online workshop

Introduction to domestic violence and abuse e-learning
This e-learning is intended for everyone that would like to gain an awareness on domestic violence and abuse. It will provide you with an introduction to what the types and signs of abuse are, how to respond and what actions to take.
Access the e-learning via the L&D Hub if you already have an account. If you are from a VCS organisation without an account please find details here  to sign-up for an account on the L&D Hub.

3 Job Vacancies at Henna Asian Women’s Group

Project Worker for 3 days (21 hours) a week until 31st March 2021.
Pay is £11 per hour.
Fundraiser – 1 day a week
Salary £35, 353 per annum pro rata
Closing date for both posts is Thursday 21st January 2021 at 5pm. Interviews on w/c Monday 25th January 2021.
Also recruiting new trustees with knowledge/expertise in law, finance or HR. Closing date 1st February 2021
To register an interest and for further details, please contact Momota Khatoon through Momota@hennaorg.co.uk
Also recruiting an experienced Project & Operations Manager
To apply please submit your CV in Word format and a supporting statement (2 sides of A4 max.) highlighting how your skills and experience meet the job description to trustees@hennaorg.co.uk

Castlehaven is Recruiting

Community Food Growing Project Worker
The ideal candidate has experience of food & plant growing, working within a community setting and can speak fluently in any of the following languages – Somali, Bengali or Arabic. .
Youth (8-13yrs) Activ8 Programme Coordinator
The ideal candidate will have experience and knowledge in setting up a programme of after school (3.30pm-6pm) positive and inclusive workshops and events that are designed to teach children how to deal with gang crime, drugs, grooming and online exploitation.
Full details on the Castlehaven website.

Age UK Camden seeks Camden Community Connector

Community Connectors provide vital support to individuals in the Camden area, many of whom face challenging circumstances. This rewarding role is to help them find, and engage with social opportunities and connections.
£32,298 to £33,473 pa pro rata over four days for a 21 hour week.
This contract is for 8 months initially, with the possibility of an extension.
Deadline for applications: 9am Friday 15th January.
Full details on the website. For more information about the role please call 020 7239 0400 or email jobs@ageukcamden.org.uk

Census Job opportunities

The next census is in 2021 and the Office of National Statistics is hiring for new local Census jobs, with applications invited for exciting new temporary roles at all levels.
All the current openings, application information and FAQs are on censusjobs.co.uk
For more information about the 2021 Census and local communities click here.

Paid work opportunities for people who have been laid off/ reduced income

Local Adult social care providers are still recruiting, and as they support the NHS to move vulnerable adults out of hospital to stay well at home, their need is growing. Contact Proud to Care.

Telling Your Covid Stories

At the September forum we discussed how to tell the story of the sector’s responded to the pandemic  – so we are collecting your stories about how you responded.  The responses will be used to tell the story of how vital the sector is in supporting Camden through these challenging times.  You can click here https://www.tfaforms.com/4863725 to put your story in writing or contact Len Lauk (llauk@vac.org.uk) if you would prefer to be interviewed.

Covid Testing

If you develop coronavirus symptoms, you can book a free test online at nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119 where you’ll be given the option to book an appointment at a local test site or request an at-home test kit in the post.
There are two test sites in Camden with plenty of appointments available:
1. Ramsay Hall, Maple Street, W1T 5HB (indoors – no step-free access)
2. 51 Greenwood Place, NW5 1LB (outdoors – step-free access)
If you have any worries about booking a test via the NHS route, you can book directly with  camden.gov.uk/bookatest or by calling 020 7974 4444 (option 9). Use this option if you need support.

Keeping The Community Directory Up-to-date

As we enter Autumn lots is changing.  Buildings are starting to re-open, some activities are moving back into the real world, some food parcel deliveries have ended, while other food projects continue.  Help us to keep the directory up-to-date by updating your details as they change.
If you would like to make a new entry in the directory use this link.   If you would like to update an existing entry look out for an email from us early next week with a unique link for you to update.
View the Directory here.  View the map here.

How to Volunteer and How to Recruit Volunteers in Camden

Volunteer in Camden at Time to Spare.
Volunteer for the NHS at GoodSAM.
Join a neighbourhood Mutual Aid group.
Organisations that are signed up to Time to Spare can now request volunteers through a brokerage team making it much easier to access the volunteers. The brokers can help match volunteers with voluntary and community organisations who have a need for verified/ vetted volunteers. The service will also help to verify or carry out new DBS check with volunteers.
Get support and resources from Volunteer Centre Camden
The council has a  page of resources to help community organisations

Keep in touch and up-to-date via the e-bulletin and @onecamden twitter.  We have a comprehensive COVID-19 update page and a resources page.

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

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

Funding News

New Fund to tackle Loneliness for small organisations. A reminder that the National Lottery Fund has re-opened their regular grant programmes and the Mayor’s Civil Society Roots Incubator has launched. See Funding below.

Have Your Say on Do Not Resuscitate Orders

Healthwatch Camden has been chosen as a partner by the Care Quality Commission in its national review of Do Not Resuscitate orders (DNRs) during the Covid pandemic.
Healthwatch want to speak to the following specific groups:
~ People with a learning disability and/or autism
~ People whose first language is not English
~ People who are digitally excluded
~ People with low literacy skills
~ People with a sensory impairment
If you can help, get in touch with Matthew Parris, HealthWatch Camden CEO Matthew Parris matthew.parris@healthwatchcamden.co.uk

Covid Testing

If you develop coronavirus symptoms, you can book a free test online at nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119 where you’ll be given the option to book an appointment at a local test site or request an at-home test kit in the post.
There are two test sites in Camden with plenty of appointments available:
1. Ramsay Hall, Maple Street, W1T 5HB (indoors – no step-free access)
2. 51 Greenwood Place, NW5 1LB (outdoors – step-free access)
If you have any worries about booking a test via the NHS route, you can book directly with  camden.gov.uk/bookatest or by calling 020 7974 4444 (option 9). Use this option if you need support.

Voluntary Action Forum – Why Neighbourhoods Matter

If you missed the forum on Wednesday you can catch up here with the video, resources, links, notes and more.  The next forum is on 20th January 2021.

Use NHS 111 to book A&E

NHS 111 can now book time slots for those who need them at all A&E departments across Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Haringey and Islington (north central London).
This is part of a drive to make it easier and safer for patients to get the right treatment at the right time, without waiting for long periods of time in an Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. This will also help the NHS to minimise the risk of Covid-19 transmission, by allowing more space for social distancing in A&E waiting rooms.
If you think you have an urgent, but not life-threatening, health problem, contact NHS 111 first. You can either call 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

The London Recovery Board seeks two co-leads.

The London Recovery Board brings together leaders from across London to oversee the long-term recovery effort. Chaired jointly by the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, and the Chair of London Councils, Georgia Gould.
The Building Strong Communities mission aims to ensure that ‘By 2025 all Londoners will have access to a community hub ensuring they can volunteer, get support and build strong networks’
Two ‘co-leads’ are needed to lead this mission, to ensure this mission delivers for Londoners.
Find out more about the role and how to apply here

Thrive London

Resources on a range of topics:
Mental Health: Bereavement: Debt: Suicide: Wellbeing
Go to the Thrive London website.

Changes In Euston

Have your say on planned changes to green spaces around Euston.  Visit the Euston Engagement Hub website.

Rethink Training

Rethink Mental Illness training partnership with the London Boroughs of Camden & Islington councils.  Rethink provides online course to organisations free of charge and also runs courses that are open to individuals.
Full details on the Rethink website.

Media Arts Club at October Gallery – Spoken Word & Digital Arts

Our free weekly Media Arts Club is open to all young people aged 13 – 24 years old who want to take part in exciting, hands on media arts projects. It’s a chance for young people to learn new digital and creative skills and create their own work, supported by professional artists.
Every Monday evening, 6-7.30pm at the October Gallery starting 11th January and running until 22nd March (term-time). Sessions will be transferred online using Zoom if guidelines change.
Spaces must be booked in advance, either online, or by emailing chloe.plumb@holborncommunity.co.uk

Newsletters

North Camden Zone
Heath Hands
All Ways Network
Healthwatch Camden
West Euston Partnership
Young Camden Foundation

New £4m Fund to Help Reduce Loneliness

Applications open on 5 January 2021 and close on 26 January 2021.
Funded by the Government and the National Lottery Community Fund, this is for small VCS organisations with an annual income of £50,000 or less. There will be two funding rounds, with £2 million for each round.
Grants of between £300 and £2,500 are to:
• Build relationships in and across communities to help reduce loneliness and build connections between people and communities
• Bring together organisations who are working on social connections to celebrate their work, share learning and best practice, and form/bring together peer networks.
The grants can cover staff salaries, volunteer expenses, management costs, overheads, small-scale equipment, small-scale venue improvements etc.
Further details here.

National Lottery Community Fund Re-Opens Regular Funding Programmes

The Community Fund has now announced that the short-term emergency phase of funding is ending and  regular funding programmes have re-opened:
• National Lottery Awards for All
• Reaching Communities
• Partnerships
Applications for all three programmes are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Launch of Civil Society Roots Incubator

The Civil Society Roots Incubator programme will offer a capacity building incubator alongside Micro Awards of up to £5,000 and Growth Awards of up to £15,000 for collaborations and/or partnerships of two or more organisations that meet one of the below objectives of the Building Stronger Communities Mission, which are:
~ Raising unheard Londoners voices to ensure they can participate more fully in all aspects of community life, lead London’s renewal and bring about change
~ Increasing feelings of belonging and/or address social isolation
~ Increasing access to support, services and mutual aid
This round of funding will be targeted at collaborations and/or partnerships led by and for groups who have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19, and the structural drivers of this disproportionate impact.  Full details here.  Closing Tuesday 26 January 2021

Thriving Communities

VAC is the lead organisation for the North Central London (NCL) area in the Thriving Communities Programme. The programme focusses on social prescribing and covid 19 related support delivered by the voluntary and community sector, and is being delivered through the National Academy for Social Prescribing. The Regional lead is London Plus.
VAC’s role is to work closely with our CVS / infrastructure counterparts in Islington, Barnet, Enfield, and Haringey, to disseminate information from the various strands of the programme to local VCS organisations, and co-produce and share learning through the Learning Together network. All the information about the programme and access to Thriving Communities learning opportunities can be found here.
Funding opportunities include Thriving Communities fund – multi themed VCS led partnerships delivering activities for residents impacted by Covid 19. There is limited funding and high expectation – it is projected that around 30 awards will be made nationally. If you are considering applying and want to discuss and / or share details with other interested groups and organisations in the borough to avoid multiple Camden bids please get in touch with Donna at VAC dturnbull@vac.org.uk

Return to Play Fund

The £16.5 million fund is split into three strands and brings our total support for the sport and physical activity sector to more than £220m.
The Return to Play Fund will support groups, clubs and organisations who’ve been impacted by restrictions brought in to tackle the pandemic.
£10m – Return to Play: Small Grants. £300 and £10,000 to help sport and activity groups, clubs and organisations respond to the immediate challenges of returning to play in a Covid-19-safe environment.
£5m – Return to Play:  £10,001 to £50,000. It’ll help local sports clubs and organisations to adapt and open important places and spaces that can help them welcome back their local community safely.
£1.5m – Return to Play: Active Together. This crowdfunding initiative will help sports clubs and organisations set up their own campaigns.
Find out more about each of the funds at the Sport England website.

Catherine Capaldi Awards

Elfrida Rathbone Camden are delighted to announce that the Catherine Capaldi Awards are open for applications.  These awards are open to anyone who identifies as a disabled person and who has an idea or solution to break down a barrier faced by disabled people or to improve their access to services, inclusion or community participation.  More information and how to enter here.

Support Grant for Organisations with Premises

The Local Restrictions Support Grant (LRSG) supports businesses (including charities) that were open as usual, providing services in person to customers from their business premises, but which were then required to close for at least 3 weeks due to local lockdown restrictions imposed by government.
There is a good briefing for the VCS from Charity Tax Group
Key requirements are the premises were “required to close for at least 3 weeks because of the lockdown” and “unable to provide its usual in-person customer service from its premises”.  There is some discretion including for organisations that don’t pay business rates.  Camden’s guidance is now out.

Lists of Emergency Funders

• Civil Society
• Ian McLintok’s LinkedIn blog
• NCVO’s funding central site is currently free for non-members.
• Charity Bank 
• Grants Online

VAC Events

Keep in eye on our Events Calendar to book and for more info.

Camden Voluntary Action Forum

The forum is open to all Camden voluntary and community  groups and organisations, community activists, social entrepreneurs, volunteers and anyone interested in local voluntary action. The Forum currently meets monthly online on the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 11am.
BAME disproportionality  follow up forum (date tbc)

Past Voluntary Action Forums: Resources

You can find presentations, recordings and resources from past forums here.

Safeguarding Courses:

Virtual Introduction to Safeguarding for Trustees
Tuesday, 12 January 2021 at 10:00 am – 11:30 am    Book Here
There has never been a better time to make sure your organisation is doing all it can to protect children and young people at risk.
For information on upcoming courses contact Dianne:
Tel: 020 7 284 6575 | Email: dogunyemi@vac.org.uk email (Mon – Wed)

Our safeguarding Lead Dianne Carlton-Ogunyemi talks to Jane Murphy from Camden Learning and Suzie Yassin from the National Resource Centre for Supplementary Education (NRCSE) about what the guidance means for you and how it can help you create a safer environment for children.  Listen here.

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

FYA Online Community Christmas Event 2020 Invite

Date: Saturday 19th December 2020
Time: 3:00pm – 5:30pm
Book at: https://hopin.com/events/fya-community-christmas-2020
Organised by young people to bring Christmas cheer and joy.
Karina.morales@fya.org.uk 07951008315

Active Hope Leadership Training

A four month journey of revitalisation and empowerment for London-based change-makers, activists and community leaders
The next journey runs from February – May 2021.  Applications are now open.
more info: https://www.activehope.london/leadership-training

Camden Safeguarding Children Partnership

Multi-agency online training programme Spring Term 2020-21
A full programme of multi-agency safeguarding training on zoom and teams.
To book onto the free training, please visit the Partnerships’s website. You will be required to register an account if you haven’t done so already.

Domestic violence and abuse online workshop

Introduction to domestic violence and abuse e-learning
This e-learning is intended for everyone that would like to gain an awareness on domestic violence and abuse. It will provide you with an introduction to what the types and signs of abuse are, how to respond and what actions to take.
Access the e-learning via the L&D Hub if you already have an account. If you are from a VCS organisation without an account please find details here  to sign-up for an account on the L&D Hub.

Responding to domestic violence and abuse online workshop

Camden Safety Net two-hour online workshops on responding to domestic violence and abuse for staff that come into regular contact with residents.
25th November or 15th December
This online workshop will help you become more aware of the indicators of domestic abuse and violence and more confident in what to do in these instances. The workshop will explore the dynamics of a domestic abuse situation and what the barriers are for a victim/survivor seeking help.
Book a place via the L&D Hub if you already have an account. If you are from a VCS organisation without an account please find details here  to sign-up for an account on the L&D Hub.

London Irish Centre seeks Volunteer Manager

Fixed Term for 12 months (with the possibility of extension) Part Time – 3 days per week. Up to £33,000pa pro rata
The postholder will be responsible for embedding volunteering across the organisation and be responsible for promoting volunteering and raising awareness of the value of volunteers both internally and externally. Working closely with the entire team, the role will support and develop volunteer involvement and contribution in new ways, making best use of people’s motivations and skills in line with the London Irish Centre’s strategic objectives.
Application packs are available online.
The deadline for applications is 9am Tuesday 5th January 2021.

Public Research Panel Members Wanted

~ Do you have an interest in climate change or the environment?
~ Do you want to influence research on environmental issues that may affect your health?
~ Would you like some experience of working with scientists to help shape their research?
If you are interested in finding out more please contact Dr Sari Kovats (sari.kovats@lshtm.ac.uk) Grace Turner (grace.turner@lsthm.ac.uk) or Dr Peninah Murage (peninah.murage@lshtm.ac.uk). For further information www.hpru-ech.nihr.ac.uk

Maths on Toast is recruiting

Maths on Toast is the family maths charity. Currently recruiting 2 Trustees  Full details are here;  and
Community Resource Programme Coordinator.
3-month temporary contract starting January 2020 (possible extension)
2 days per week (14 hours) Salary: £24,000 pro rata
The role requires proven admin skills plus community relationship management/networking experience.
For the trustee roles we welcome applications from anyone with lived experience as a parent/carer and/or working in a community or family support setting, as well as individuals who may have experienced challenges with formal education and individuals from marginalised groups.
Email Lucy Davis, CEO – lucy@mathsontoast.org.uk – if you would like to arrange an initial phone call about the role, or have any questions.
Please apply by sending a CV and a letter (max. 2 sides A4) explaining your motivation and relevant experience. Please provide 2 references in your letter and send to info@mathsontoast.org.uk. Deadline: 31st December 2020

KOVE seeks Treasurer

Kilburn Older Voices Exchange (KOVE), a longstanding local community action group for older people based in Kilburn and West Hampstead, is looking for a new treasurer. This voluntary role involves working with the KOVE Chair and Administrator on the annual budget plus other routine financial tasks (reconciling bank statements, checking finance reports, authorising payments etc.) and attending and reporting to five Steering Group meetings per year. Experience of working or volunteering in finance or budget management would be valuable, especially online, and knowledge of working remotely would be an advantage. To have an informal discussion about the role, contact Peter Lush in the first instance, on 07973-845285.

Lifeafterhummus Community Benefit Society is looking for a Quickbooks bookkeeper

As a society Lifeafterhummus have had to adapt very quickly to continue supporting our beneficiaries. Our revenue model has changed completely and we are reliant on grant funding/ pocket funding/ donations. We are looking for a competent, experienced freelance bookkeeper who will also create project lines for the various pots of monies. This will allow us to have a real-time overview including being able to use this as the basis for accurate projections. Tidying of accounts plus projection work: £15ph x 20hrs per week over 4 weeks. £15ph x 12hrs of training staff to effectively use the system. £15ph x 8hrs per month for 5 months to help with ongoing bookkeeping. Contact farrah@lifeafterhummus.com

Census Job opportunities

The next census is in 2021 and the Office of National Statistics is hiring for new local Census jobs, with applications invited for exciting new temporary roles at all levels.
All the current openings, application information and FAQs are on censusjobs.co.uk
For more information about the 2021 Census and local communities click here.

Become a Families for Life Community Champion

Families for life programmes offer free healthy eating and active play activities for families with children age 2-11.  Do you live in Camden?  Are you passionate about improving health? Available two or three hours a week?
For more information on how to be part of our volunteering team, please contact: Syria Chowdhury, Community Champion Coordinator m: 07734 603 060, e: syria.chowdhury@camden.gov.uk

Hopscotch Homecare urgently need Care Workers.

Hopscotch Homecare are a very caring,well-established and expanding care agency that has been providing care workers to clients in and around Camden for 20 years. We are looking for care workers who would like to help our clients to continue living safely and independently in their own homes.
Day/Night hours available and must be able to work at least two late shifts a week and alternate weekends  Contact:recruitment@hopscotchawc.org.uk

Paid work opportunities for people who have been laid off/ reduced income

Local Adult social care providers are still recruiting, and as they support the NHS to move vulnerable adults out of hospital to stay well at home, their need is growing. Contact Proud to Care.

Telling Your Covid Stories

At the September forum we discussed how to tell the story of the sector’s responded to the pandemic  – so we are collecting your stories about how you responded.  The responses will be used to tell the story of how vital the sector is in supporting Camden through these challenging times.  You can click here https://www.tfaforms.com/4863725 to put your story in writing or contact Len Lauk (llauk@vac.org.uk) if you would prefer to be interviewed.

Census 2021 Will Provide a Snapshot of Modern Society

Census day will be on Sunday 21st March 2021.
Camden census officers are available to talk to your community group – contact:
07452 938090 or julia.clifford43@field.census.gov.uk
07452 935015 abdulwaheed.funmilayo59@field.census.gov.uk
For more information about the Census go to Opendata.camden.gov.uk

Keeping The Community Directory Up-to-date

As we enter Autumn lots is changing.  Buildings are starting to re-open, some activities are moving back into the real world, some food parcel deliveries have ended, while other food projects continue.  Help us to keep the directory up-to-date by updating your details as they change.
If you would like to make a new entry in the directory use this link.   If you would like to update an existing entry look out for an email from us early next week with a unique link for you to update.
View the Directory here.  View the map here.

How to Volunteer and How to Recruit Volunteers in Camden

Volunteer in Camden at Time to Spare.
Volunteer for the NHS at GoodSAM.
Join a neighbourhood Mutual Aid group.
Organisations that are signed up to Time to Spare can now request volunteers through a brokerage team making it much easier to access the volunteers. The brokers can help match volunteers with voluntary and community organisations who have a need for verified/ vetted volunteers. The service will also help to verify or carry out new DBS check with volunteers.
Get support and resources from Volunteer Centre Camden
The council has a  page of resources to help community organisations

Keep in touch and up-to-date via the e-bulletin and @onecamden twitter.  We have a comprehensive COVID-19 update page and a resources page.

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

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

Funding News

The National Lottery Fund has re-opened their regular grant programmes and the Mayor has launched the Civil Society Roots Incubator. See Funding section below.

Covid Community campaign, Fighting Hunger this Winter Ending Hunger Forever

Camden joined a London-wide campaign to drive much-needed support to food charities and local food hubs this winter.
On Tuesday this week the campaign has been launched by Dame Louise Casey with London Councils, The Mayor of London and leading national food poverty charities The Trussell Trust, FareShare, Magic Breakfast and Social Bite also lending their support.
The Covid Community Campaign will help to provide food and support to those struggling this winter – and sets out to build on the community spirit and compassion we have seen throughout this year in response to Covid-19.
The campaign is encouraging people to give what they can to a crowdfunding project to tackle food poverty. There is also a ‘Local Support’ page where people can find options for either donating to or accessing support in their local area.
Visit covidcommunitycampaign.co.uk to find out how you can get involved – and please help us to spread the work to your networks and contacts.
If you would like to be part of Camden local support network please contact  Ali.alsaraf@camden.gov.uk or Phillip.vaughan@camden.gov.uk

Lockdown Pie

2020 will be forever known as the Year of COVID. Yet despite the enforced isolation many people have had to endure, Kilburn Older Voices Exchange (KOVE) members proved themselves both resourceful and creative. Kove have published an anthology of writings and artwork produced entirely by members during the first three months of lockdown.
To view an electronic copy, please go to http://www.kove.org.uk/ and scroll down and click on the image of the cover.
To receive your own electronic copy please contact Deborah Knight on 07778 145 787 or email deborah@kove.org.uk

FYA Online Community Christmas Event 2020 Invite

Date: Saturday 19th December 2020
Time: 3:00pm – 5:30pm
Book at: https://hopin.com/events/fya-community-christmas-2020
Organised by young people to bring Christmas cheer and joy.
Karina.morales@fya.org.uk 07951008315

NCL CCG Vaccine Survey

Vaccines are the best defence against the COVID-19 virus alongside effective social distancing, wearing a mask and washing your hands. Those living in Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Haringey and Islington – North Central London – are asked to share their views on the prospect of COVID-19 vaccinations being made available.  Complete this short survey: https://bit.ly/3ooANyL

New year, new home?

Camden have homes available in sheltered housing schemes, where older people are supported to live independently. Is sheltered housing for you?
If sheltered housing in Camden sounds like it might be for you or someone you know and you would like to find out more, please get in touch. Call  020 7974 4764 or 020 7974 1991 or email housingolderpeople@camden.gov.uk

Newsletters

Heath Hands
All Ways Network
Healthwatch Camden
West Euston Partnership

National Lottery Community Fund Re-Opens Regular Funding Programmes

The Community Fund has now announced that the short-term emergency phase of funding is ending and  regular funding programmes have re-opened:
• National Lottery Awards for All
• Reaching Communities
• Partnerships
Applications for all three programmes are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Launch of Civil Society Roots Incubator

The Civil Society Roots Incubator programme will offer a capacity building incubator alongside Micro Awards of up to £5,000 and Growth Awards of up to £15,000 for collaborations and/or partnerships of two or more organisations that meet one of the below objectives of the Building Stronger Communities Mission, which are:
~ Raising unheard Londoners voices to ensure they can participate more fully in all aspects of community life, lead London’s renewal and bring about change
~ Increasing feelings of belonging and/or address social isolation
~ Increasing access to support, services and mutual aid
This round of funding will be targeted at collaborations and/or partnerships led by and for groups who have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19, and the structural drivers of this disproportionate impact.  Full details here.

Thriving Communities

VAC is the lead organisation for the North Central London (NCL) area in the Thriving Communities Programme. The programme focusses on social prescribing and covid 19 related support delivered by the voluntary and community sector, and is being delivered through the National Academy for Social Prescribing. The Regional lead is London Plus.
VAC’s role is to work closely with our CVS / infrastructure counterparts in Islington, Barnet, Enfield, and Haringey, to disseminate information from the various strands of the programme to local VCS organisations, and co-produce and share learning through the Learning Together network. All the information about the programme and access to Thriving Communities learning opportunities can be found here, including a free regional support initiative for vcs, faith and social enterprise groups supporting communities through COVID19.  Apply by 11 December 2020.
Funding opportunities include Thriving Communities fund – multi themed VCS led partnerships delivering activities for residents impacted by Covid 19. There is limited funding and high expectation – it is projected that around 30 awards will be made nationally. If you are considering applying and want to discuss and / or share details with other interested groups and organisations in the borough to avoid multiple Camden bids please get in touch with Donna at VAC dturnbull@vac.org.uk

Return to Play Fund

The £16.5 million fund is split into three strands and brings our total support for the sport and physical activity sector to more than £220m.
The Return to Play Fund will support groups, clubs and organisations who’ve been impacted by restrictions brought in to tackle the pandemic.
£10m – Return to Play: Small Grants. £300 and £10,000 to help sport and activity groups, clubs and organisations respond to the immediate challenges of returning to play in a Covid-19-safe environment.
£5m – Return to Play:  £10,001 to £50,000. It’ll help local sports clubs and organisations to adapt and open important places and spaces that can help them welcome back their local community safely.
£1.5m – Return to Play: Active Together. This crowdfunding initiative will help sports clubs and organisations set up their own campaigns.
Find out more about each of the funds at the Sport England website.

Catherine Capaldi Awards

Elfrida Rathbone Camden are delighted to announce that the Catherine Capaldi Awards are open for applications.  These awards are open to anyone who identifies as a disabled person and who has an idea or solution to break down a barrier faced by disabled people or to improve their access to services, inclusion or community participation.  More information and how to enter here.

Support Grant for Organisations with Premises

The Local Restrictions Support Grant (LRSG) supports businesses (including charities) that were open as usual, providing services in person to customers from their business premises, but which were then required to close for at least 3 weeks due to local lockdown restrictions imposed by government.
There is a good briefing for the VCS from Charity Tax Group
Key requirements are the premises were “required to close for at least 3 weeks because of the lockdown” and “unable to provide its usual in-person customer service from its premises”.  There is some discretion including for organisations that don’t pay business rates.  Camden’s guidance is now out.

Mental Health Sustainability Programme Grants Fund

Are you supporting communities disproportionately impacted by Covid-19?  Up to £5,000 available for small/medium VCS organisations.  AMHP are looking at funding costs that can positively impact the sustainability of an organisation – specifically those that are supporting the mental health and wellbeing of communities disproportionately impacted by Covid-19; with a focus on organisations that are led by and/or are supporting BAME communities. Other disadvantaged groups also considered such as the homeless community, those in contact with the criminal justice system, children and young people, women and girls, victims of domestic violence etc.
Details here.  Return your application to  Daniah@amhp.org.uk before 11:59pm on Sunday 13 December 2020. Deadline Sunday 13th December.

Lists of Emergency Funders

• Civil Society
• Ian McLintok’s LinkedIn blog
• NCVO’s funding central site is currently free for non-members.
• Charity Bank 
• Grants Online

VAC Events

Keep in eye on our Events Calendar to book and for more info.

Camden Voluntary Action Forum

The forum is open to all Camden voluntary and community  groups and organisations, community activists, social entrepreneurs, volunteers and anyone interested in local voluntary action. The Forum currently meets monthly online on the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 11am.
Wed 16th December, 11am. Neighbourhood approaches to Covid response.
BAME disproportionality  follow up forum (date tbc)

Past Voluntary Action Forums: Resources

You can find presentations, recordings and resources from past forums here.

Safeguarding Courses:

Virtual Introduction to Safeguarding for Trustees
Tuesday, 12 January 2021 at 10:00 am – 11:30 am    Book Here
There has never been a better time to make sure your organisation is doing all it can to protect children and young people at risk.
For information on upcoming courses contact Dianne:
Tel: 020 7 284 6575 | Email: dogunyemi@vac.org.uk email (Mon – Wed)

Our safeguarding Lead Dianne Carlton-Ogunyemi talks to Jane Murphy from Camden Learning and Suzie Yassin from the National Resource Centre for Supplementary Education (NRCSE) about what the guidance means for you and how it can help you create a safer environment for children.  Listen here.

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

Families for Life Community Champion

Zoom Information Session to find out about:
~ The Families for Life Community Champion Volunteer Programme
~ Who our current Champions are and what they do
~ How we can support you to become a Champion
Monday 14th December 10.15AM TO 11APM or
Tuesday 15th December 1.15PM to 12PM
contact: Syria Chowdhury, Community Champion Coordinator, m: 07734 603 060, e: syria.chowdhury@camden.gov.uk

The Ubele Initiative presents ‘Getting to Grips with Social Prescribing’

Demystifying social prescribing, funding opportunities and how it can support the wellbeing of communities we work with.  Wed 16 Dec  3pm – 5pm
It’s important that organisations are aware of social prescribing and related funding opportunities to make an informed decision about how they might support the communities they work with.
Join the conversation on Wednesday for a panel discussion curated by The Ubele Initiative and hosted by Eileen Bellot from QuestLife.
Contact The Ubele Initiative via info@ubele.org or register at Eventbrite.

Active Hope Leadership Training

A four month journey of revitalisation and empowerment for London-based change-makers, activists and community leaders
The next journey runs from February – May 2021.  Applications are now open.
more info: https://www.activehope.london/leadership-training

Camden Safeguarding Children Partnership

Multi-agency online training programme Spring Term 2020-21
A full programme of multi-agency safeguarding training on zoom and teams.
To book onto the free training, please visit the Partnerships’s website. You will be required to register an account if you haven’t done so already.

Domestic violence and abuse online workshop

Introduction to domestic violence and abuse e-learning
This e-learning is intended for everyone that would like to gain an awareness on domestic violence and abuse. It will provide you with an introduction to what the types and signs of abuse are, how to respond and what actions to take.
Access the e-learning via the L&D Hub if you already have an account. If you are from a VCS organisation without an account please find details here  to sign-up for an account on the L&D Hub.

Responding to domestic violence and abuse online workshop

Camden Safety Net two-hour online workshops on responding to domestic violence and abuse for staff that come into regular contact with residents.
25th November or 15th December
This online workshop will help you become more aware of the indicators of domestic abuse and violence and more confident in what to do in these instances. The workshop will explore the dynamics of a domestic abuse situation and what the barriers are for a victim/survivor seeking help.
Book a place via the L&D Hub if you already have an account. If you are from a VCS organisation without an account please find details here  to sign-up for an account on the L&D Hub.

London Irish Centre seeks Volunteer Manager

Fixed Term for 12 months (with the possibility of extension) Part Time – 3 days per week. Up to £33,000pa pro rata
The postholder will be responsible for embedding volunteering across the organisation and be responsible for promoting volunteering and raising awareness of the value of volunteers both internally and externally. Working closely with the entire team, the role will support and develop volunteer involvement and contribution in new ways, making best use of people’s motivations and skills in line with the London Irish Centre’s strategic objectives.
Application packs are available online.
The deadline for applications is 9am Tuesday 5th January 2021.

Small Green Shoots seek Junior Content Producer

3 days per week – days to be discussed
National Minimum Wage + Pension & Benefits
Based at our new office in Kings Cross, you will be part of a dynamic, fast-paced and highly motivated team who are passionate about Music, Events, Content. We hope to transform the lives of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, giving them an opportunity to engage with Music and the Arts, and to use these experiences as a springboard for their future.
To apply for this vacancy, you must complete your CV and portfolio of editing work to constance@smallgreenshoots.co.uk by Tuesday 15th December 2020 http://www.smallgreenshoots.co.uk

London Irish Centre is Recruiting

Digital Culture Officer Fixed Term for 6 months (possibility for extension)
Full Time – 35 hours per week £22,000 pa
The purpose of this role is to promote Irish culture and community in London, with a focus on digital culture and heritage.
The Digital Culture Officer will support the London Irish Centre with the running and administration of its cultural, heritage and education programme. The role is an exciting opportunity to work within and promote Irish arts in London.
Application packs available at https://www.londonirishcentre.org/workwithus
The deadline for applications is 9am Monday 14th December.

Maths on Toast is recruiting

Maths on Toast is the family maths charity. Currently recruiting 2 Trustees  Full details are here;  and
Community Resource Programme Coordinator.
3-month temporary contract starting January 2020 (possible extension)
2 days per week (14 hours) Salary: £24,000 pro rata
The role requires proven admin skills plus community relationship management/networking experience.
For the trustee roles we welcome applications from anyone with lived experience as a parent/carer and/or working in a community or family support setting, as well as individuals who may have experienced challenges with formal education and individuals from marginalised groups.
Email Lucy Davis, CEO – lucy@mathsontoast.org.uk – if you would like to arrange an initial phone call about the role, or have any questions.
Please apply by sending a CV and a letter (max. 2 sides A4) explaining your motivation and relevant experience. Please provide 2 references in your letter and send to info@mathsontoast.org.uk. Deadline: 31st December 2020

KOVE seeks Treasurer

Kilburn Older Voices Exchange (KOVE), a longstanding local community action group for older people based in Kilburn and West Hampstead, is looking for a new treasurer. This voluntary role involves working with the KOVE Chair and Administrator on the annual budget plus other routine financial tasks (reconciling bank statements, checking finance reports, authorising payments etc.) and attending and reporting to five Steering Group meetings per year. Experience of working or volunteering in finance or budget management would be valuable, especially online, and knowledge of working remotely would be an advantage. To have an informal discussion about the role, contact Peter Lush in the first instance, on 07973-845285.

Lifeafterhummus Community Benefit Society is looking for a Quickbooks bookkeeper

As a society Lifeafterhummus have had to adapt very quickly to continue supporting our beneficiaries. Our revenue model has changed completely and we are reliant on grant funding/ pocket funding/ donations. We are looking for a competent, experienced freelance bookkeeper who will also create project lines for the various pots of monies. This will allow us to have a real-time overview including being able to use this as the basis for accurate projections. Tidying of accounts plus projection work: £15ph x 20hrs per week over 4 weeks. £15ph x 12hrs of training staff to effectively use the system. £15ph x 8hrs per month for 5 months to help with ongoing bookkeeping. Contact farrah@lifeafterhummus.com

Census Job opportunities

The next census is in 2021 and the Office of National Statistics is hiring for new local Census jobs, with applications invited for exciting new temporary roles at all levels.
All the current openings, application information and FAQs are on censusjobs.co.uk
For more information about the 2021 Census and local communities click here.

HostNation seeks Treasurer

An exciting opportunity to join a refugee befriending charity as Treasurer.
HostNation exists to make it easier for those of us at home in London, to be friends with those looking for a place they can call home.
To find out more about this exciting role contact our chair, Daniel Silverstone for an informal chat Daniel@dsilverstone.co.uk
Please submit a brief personal statement setting out why you would like to apply together with an up-to-date CV and send to info@hostnation.org.uk.
The closing date for applications is 18 December 2020

Become a Families for Life Community Champion

Families for life programmes offer free healthy eating and active play activities for families with children age 2-11.  Do you live in Camden?  Are you passionate about improving health? Available two or three hours a week?
For more information on how to be part of our volunteering team, please contact: Syria Chowdhury, Community Champion Coordinator m: 07734 603 060, e: syria.chowdhury@camden.gov.uk

Age UK Camden is Recruiting

Camden Community Connector
£32,063 to £33,229 pa pro rata for a 21 hour (4 day week – 8 month contract possible extension)
As a Community Connector you will support individuals, many of whom are facing challenging circumstances, to find and engage with social opportunities and connections. Do you have excellent active listening skills, and can you inspire people to connect with opportunities in their community?
Administrator – Counselling Service
£26,350 to £27,800 pa pro rata for a 21 hour week
In this role you will assist with Age UK Camden’s (AUC) administrative needs, particularly the Counselling Services
Closing date post Monday 7th Dec at 9am.
For further details and an application form visit www.ageukcamden.org.uk or email jobs@ageukcamden.org.uk or telephone 020 7239 0400.

Hopscotch Homecare urgently need Care Workers.

Hopscotch Homecare are a very caring,well-established and expanding care agency that has been providing care workers to clients in and around Camden for 20 years. We are looking for care workers who would like to help our clients to continue living safely and independently in their own homes.
Day/Night hours available and must be able to work at least two late shifts a week and alternate weekends  Contact:recruitment@hopscotchawc.org.uk

Paid work opportunities for people who have been laid off/ reduced income

Local Adult social care providers are still recruiting, and as they support the NHS to move vulnerable adults out of hospital to stay well at home, their need is growing. Contact Proud to Care.

Telling Your Covid Stories

At the September forum we discussed how to tell the story of the sector’s responded to the pandemic  – so we are collecting your stories about how you responded.  The responses will be used to tell the story of how vital the sector is in supporting Camden through these challenging times.  You can click here https://www.tfaforms.com/4863725 to put your story in writing or contact Len Lauk (llauk@vac.org.uk) if you would prefer to be interviewed.

Private Sector Tenant Engagement Survey

Have your say on private renting in Camden.  The council want to improve communication so that private renters are more aware of their rights and what the council can do for them.
Take the survey.  More details here.

Parks for Health: survey and workshop

Further mapping of Camden and Islington’s parks and open spaces. particularly how parks could be used to improve people’s health and wellbeing.  Take the survey.  Details of the workshops in the survey link. Read the blog.

Census 2021 Will Provide a Snapshot of Modern Society

Census day will be on Sunday 21st March 2021.
Camden census officers are available to talk to your community group – contact:
07452 938090 or julia.clifford43@field.census.gov.uk
07452 935015 abdulwaheed.funmilayo59@field.census.gov.uk
For more information about the Census go to Opendata.camden.gov.uk

Keeping The Community Directory Up-to-date

As we enter Autumn lots is changing.  Buildings are starting to re-open, some activities are moving back into the real world, some food parcel deliveries have ended, while other food projects continue.  Help us to keep the directory up-to-date by updating your details as they change.
If you would like to make a new entry in the directory use this link.   If you would like to update an existing entry look out for an email from us early next week with a unique link for you to update.
View the Directory here.  View the map here.

How to Volunteer and How to Recruit Volunteers in Camden

Volunteer in Camden at Time to Spare.
Volunteer for the NHS at GoodSAM.
Join a neighbourhood Mutual Aid group.
Organisations that are signed up to Time to Spare can now request volunteers through a brokerage team making it much easier to access the volunteers. The brokers can help match volunteers with voluntary and community organisations who have a need for verified/ vetted volunteers. The service will also help to verify or carry out new DBS check with volunteers.
Get support and resources from Volunteer Centre Camden
The council has a  page of resources to help community organisations

Keep in touch and up-to-date via the e-bulletin and @onecamden twitter.  We have a comprehensive COVID-19 update page and a resources page.

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

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

Lockdown Has Ended –  Now We Enter Tier 2

London has moved into a ‘high’ level of local COVID alert,  known as ‘Tier 2’. Full details here.  For 5 days over Christmas there will be new rules.

Voluntary Action Forum, 16th December, 11 – 12.30pm.

What’s it all about? VCS Role in Local Care and Health system  – Why Neighbourhoods Matter
Aim: To look at the purpose of the neighbourhoods agenda and build the knowledge of the VCS
The December forum is looking at the new Neighbourhoods agenda – how it came about and the role of the VCS.  Full details and booking at Eventbrite.

Catherine Capaldi Awards

Elfrida Rathbone Camden are delighted to announce that the Catherine Capaldi Awards are open for applications.  These awards are open to anyone who identifies as a disabled person and who has an idea or solution to break down a barrier faced by disabled people or to improve their access to services, inclusion or community participation.  More information and how to enter here.

Support Grant for Organisations with Premises

The Local Restrictions Support Grant (LRSG) supports businesses (including charities) that were open as usual, providing services in person to customers from their business premises, but which were then required to close for at least 3 weeks due to local lockdown restrictions imposed by government.
There is a good briefing for the VCS from Charity Tax Group
Key requirements are the premises were “required to close for at least 3 weeks because of the lockdown” and “unable to provide its usual in-person customer service from its premises”.  There is some discretion including for organisations that don’t pay business rates.  Camden’s guidance is now out.
The council is organising two livestream Q&A sessions to provide an overview of the Tier 2 restrictions and the process for grant applications and eligibility. The meetings will take place over Microsoft Teams, with no registration or Microsoft licence required:
Thursday 3 December 2-3pm – join here
Thursday 10 December 3-4pm  join here

Mental Health Sustainability Programme Grants Fund

Are you supporting communities disproportionately impacted by Covid-19?  Up to £5,000 available for small/medium VCS organisations.  AMHP are looking at funding costs that can positively impact the sustainability of an organisation – specifically those that are supporting the mental health and wellbeing of communities disproportionately impacted by Covid-19; with a focus on organisations that are led by and/or are supporting BAME communities. Other disadvantaged groups also considered such as the homeless community, those in contact with the criminal justice system, children and young people, women and girls, victims of domestic violence etc.
Details here.  Return your application to  Daniah@amhp.org.uk before 11:59pm on Sunday 13 December 2020. Deadline Sunday 13th December.

Castlehaven WinterFEST 2020

Monday 7th December – Friday 11th December
Online festive fun for the whole community. Dance at our Jingle Bell Disco, sing along with our brilliant Community Choir, or talk to Santa directly from his toy workshop in the North Pole
Explore WinterFEST, there is something for everyone:  Full details here.

Family Fun with the British Library

Activities to enjoy at home and a live family zoom session.  Full details here.

How to Communicate with Your Child’s School

An online webinar for parents and carers of children in school (mainly aimed at secondary school-age) in Camden and Islington.
This session will provide some key steps to follow when you need to communicate with your child’s school and how to keep your cool throughout the process for positive results.
Apply to VRUReferrals@islington.gov.uk quoting REF NO. NBGN08

Social prescribing and NHS facilities

How could the NHS better use its facilities to support social prescribing, holistic care and community resilience? Read the Kings Fund report here.

New Black and Ethnic Minority community-led foundation backed by major charities

A new foundation led by and supporting Black and Ethnic Minority communities is being created and will start its development phase at the beginning of next year.
Baobab Foundation will be “a new type of foundation, led by the communities it serves”, and aim to address the chronic underfunding of community organisations led by people of colour.  Full story here.

Return to Play Fund

The £16.5 million fund is split into three strands and brings our total support for the sport and physical activity sector to more than £220m.
The Return to Play Fund will support groups, clubs and organisations who’ve been impacted by restrictions brought in to tackle the pandemic.
£10m – Return to Play: Small Grants. £300 and £10,000 to help sport and activity groups, clubs and organisations respond to the immediate challenges of returning to play in a Covid-19-safe environment.
£5m – Return to Play:  £10,001 to £50,000. It’ll help local sports clubs and organisations to adapt and open important places and spaces that can help them welcome back their local community safely.
£1.5m – Return to Play: Active Together. This crowdfunding initiative will help sports clubs and organisations set up their own campaigns.
Find out more about each of the funds at the Sport England website.

Lists of Emergency Funders

• Civil Society
• Ian McLintok’s LinkedIn blog
• NCVO’s funding central site is currently free for non-members.
• Charity Bank 
• Grants Online

VAC Events

Keep in eye on our Events Calendar to book and for more info.

Camden Voluntary Action Forum

The forum is open to all Camden voluntary and community  groups and organisations, community activists, social entrepreneurs, volunteers and anyone interested in local voluntary action. The Forum currently meets monthly online on the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 11am.
Wed 16th December, 11am. Neighbourhood approaches to Covid response.
BAME disproportionality  follow up forum (date tbc)

Past Voluntary Action Forums: Resources

You can find presentations, recordings and resources from past forums here.

Safeguarding Courses:

Safeguarding Advance: Developing knowledge and understanding 2
Tuesday, 8th December at 10:00 am – 11:45am. Book Here.
If you frequently work with or deliver services to children and their families, it is essential that your organisation / group has up-to-date knowledge of safeguarding legislation and understands it’s legal obligations in regards to child protection policy and procedures.
Virtual Introduction to Safeguarding for Trustees
Tuesday, 12 January 2021 at 10:00 am – 11:30 am    Book Here
There has never been a better time to make sure your organisation is doing all it can to protect children and young people at risk.
For information on upcoming courses contact Dianne:
Tel: 020 7 284 6575 | Email: dogunyemi@vac.org.uk email (Mon – Wed)

Our safeguarding Lead Dianne Carlton-Ogunyemi talks to Jane Murphy from Camden Learning and Suzie Yassin from the National Resource Centre for Supplementary Education (NRCSE) about what the guidance means for you and how it can help you create a safer environment for children.  Listen here.

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

Families for Life Community Champion

Zoom Information Session to find out about:
~ The Families for Life Community Champion Volunteer Programme
~ Who our current Champions are and what they do
~ How we can support you to become a Champion
Monday 14th December 10.15AM TO 11APM or
Tuesday 15th December 1.15PM to 12PM
contact: Syria Chowdhury, Community Champion Coordinator, m: 07734 603 060, e: syria.chowdhury@camden.gov.uk

Camden Safeguarding Children Partnership

Multi-agency online training programme Spring Term 2020-21
A full programme of multi-agency safeguarding training on zoom and teams.
To book onto the free training, please visit the Partnerships’s website. You will be required to register an account if you haven’t done so already.

Domestic violence and abuse online workshop

Introduction to domestic violence and abuse e-learning
This e-learning is intended for everyone that would like to gain an awareness on domestic violence and abuse. It will provide you with an introduction to what the types and signs of abuse are, how to respond and what actions to take.
Access the e-learning via the L&D Hub if you already have an account. If you are from a VCS organisation without an account please find details here  to sign-up for an account on the L&D Hub.

Responding to domestic violence and abuse online workshop

Camden Safety Net two-hour online workshops on responding to domestic violence and abuse for staff that come into regular contact with residents.
25th November or 15th December
This online workshop will help you become more aware of the indicators of domestic abuse and violence and more confident in what to do in these instances. The workshop will explore the dynamics of a domestic abuse situation and what the barriers are for a victim/survivor seeking help.
Book a place via the L&D Hub if you already have an account. If you are from a VCS organisation without an account please find details here  to sign-up for an account on the L&D Hub.

London Irish Centre is Recruiting

Digital Culture Officer Fixed Term for 6 months (possibility for extension)
Full Time – 35 hours per week £22,000 pa
The purpose of this role is to promote Irish culture and community in London, with a focus on digital culture and heritage.
The Digital Culture Officer will support the London Irish Centre with the running and administration of its cultural, heritage and education programme. The role is an exciting opportunity to work within and promote Irish arts in London.
Application packs available at https://www.londonirishcentre.org/workwithus
The deadline for applications is 9am Monday 14th December.

Small Green Shoots seek Junior Content Producer

3 days per week – days to be discussed
National Minimum Wage + Pension & Benefits
Based at our new office in Kings Cross, you will be part of a dynamic, fast-paced and highly motivated team who are passionate about Music, Events, Content. We hope to transform the lives of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, giving them an opportunity to engage with Music and the Arts, and to use these experiences as a springboard for their future.
To apply for this vacancy, you must complete your CV and portfolio of editing work to constance@smallgreenshoots.co.uk by Tuesday 15th December 2020 http://www.smallgreenshoots.co.uk

Maths on Toast is recruiting

Maths on Toast is the family maths charity. Currently recruiting 2 Trustees  Full details are here;  and
Community Resource Programme Coordinator.
3-month temporary contract starting January 2020 (possible extension)
2 days per week (14 hours) Salary: £24,000 pro rata
The role requires proven admin skills plus community relationship management/networking experience.
For the trustee roles we welcome applications from anyone with lived experience as a parent/carer and/or working in a community or family support setting, as well as individuals who may have experienced challenges with formal education and individuals from marginalised groups.
Email Lucy Davis, CEO – lucy@mathsontoast.org.uk – if you would like to arrange an initial phone call about the role, or have any questions.
Please apply by sending a CV and a letter (max. 2 sides A4) explaining your motivation and relevant experience. Please provide 2 references in your letter and send to info@mathsontoast.org.uk. Deadline: 31st December 2020

KOVE seeks Treasurer

Kilburn Older Voices Exchange (KOVE), a longstanding local community action group for older people based in Kilburn and West Hampstead, is looking for a new treasurer. This voluntary role involves working with the KOVE Chair and Administrator on the annual budget plus other routine financial tasks (reconciling bank statements, checking finance reports, authorising payments etc.) and attending and reporting to five Steering Group meetings per year. Experience of working or volunteering in finance or budget management would be valuable, especially online, and knowledge of working remotely would be an advantage. To have an informal discussion about the role, contact Peter Lush in the first instance, on 07973-845285.

Lifeafterhummus Community Benefit Society is looking for a Quickbooks bookkeeper

As a society Lifeafterhummus have had to adapt very quickly to continue supporting our beneficiaries. Our revenue model has changed completely and we are reliant on grant funding/ pocket funding/ donations. We are looking for a competent, experienced freelance bookkeeper who will also create project lines for the various pots of monies. This will allow us to have a real-time overview including being able to use this as the basis for accurate projections. Tidying of accounts plus projection work: £15ph x 20hrs per week over 4 weeks. £15ph x 12hrs of training staff to effectively use the system. £15ph x 8hrs per month for 5 months to help with ongoing bookkeeping. Contact farrah@lifeafterhummus.com

Census Job opportunities

The next census is in 2021 and the Office of National Statistics is hiring for new local Census jobs, with applications invited for exciting new temporary roles at all levels.
All the current openings, application information and FAQs are on censusjobs.co.uk
For more information about the 2021 Census and local communities click here.

HostNation seeks Treasurer

An exciting opportunity to join a refugee befriending charity as Treasurer.
HostNation exists to make it easier for those of us at home in London, to be friends with those looking for a place they can call home.
To find out more about this exciting role contact our chair, Daniel Silverstone for an informal chat Daniel@dsilverstone.co.uk
Please submit a brief personal statement setting out why you would like to apply together with an up-to-date CV and send to info@hostnation.org.uk.
The closing date for applications is 18 December 2020

Become a Families for Life Community Champion

Families for life programmes offer free healthy eating and active play activities for families with children age 2-11.  Do you live in Camden?  Are you passionate about improving health? Available two or three hours a week?
For more information on how to be part of our volunteering team, please contact: Syria Chowdhury, Community Champion Coordinator m: 07734 603 060, e: syria.chowdhury@camden.gov.uk

Age UK Camden is Recruiting

Camden Community Connector
£32,063 to £33,229 pa pro rata for a 21 hour (4 day week – 8 month contract possible extension)
As a Community Connector you will support individuals, many of whom are facing challenging circumstances, to find and engage with social opportunities and connections. Do you have excellent active listening skills, and can you inspire people to connect with opportunities in their community?
Administrator – Counselling Service
£26,350 to £27,800 pa pro rata for a 21 hour week
In this role you will assist with Age UK Camden’s (AUC) administrative needs, particularly the Counselling Services
Closing date post Monday 7th Dec at 9am.
For further details and an application form visit www.ageukcamden.org.uk or email jobs@ageukcamden.org.uk or telephone 020 7239 0400.

Hopscotch Homecare urgently need Care Workers.

Hopscotch Homecare are a very caring,well-established and expanding care agency that has been providing care workers to clients in and around Camden for 20 years. We are looking for care workers who would like to help our clients to continue living safely and independently in their own homes.
Day/Night hours available and must be able to work at least two late shifts a week and alternate weekends  Contact:recruitment@hopscotchawc.org.uk

Paid work opportunities for people who have been laid off/ reduced income

Local Adult social care providers are still recruiting, and as they support the NHS to move vulnerable adults out of hospital to stay well at home, their need is growing. Contact Proud to Care.

Telling Your Covid Stories

At the September forum we discussed how to tell the story of the sector’s responded to the pandemic  – so we are collecting your stories about how you responded.  The responses will be used to tell the story of how vital the sector is in supporting Camden through these challenging times.  You can click here https://www.tfaforms.com/4863725 to put your story in writing or contact Len Lauk (llauk@vac.org.uk) if you would prefer to be interviewed.

Private Sector Tenant Engagement Survey

Have your say on private renting in Camden.  The council want to improve communication so that private renters are more aware of their rights and what the council can do for them.
Take the survey.  More details here.

Parks for Health: survey and workshop

Further mapping of Camden and Islington’s parks and open spaces. particularly how parks could be used to improve people’s health and wellbeing.  Take the survey.  Details of the workshops in the survey link. Read the blog.

Census 2021 Will Provide a Snapshot of Modern Society

Census day will be on Sunday 21st March 2021.
Camden census officers are available to talk to your community group – contact:
07452 938090 or julia.clifford43@field.census.gov.uk
07452 935015 abdulwaheed.funmilayo59@field.census.gov.uk
For more information about the Census go to Opendata.camden.gov.uk

Keeping The Community Directory Up-to-date

As we enter Autumn lots is changing.  Buildings are starting to re-open, some activities are moving back into the real world, some food parcel deliveries have ended, while other food projects continue.  Help us to keep the directory up-to-date by updating your details as they change.
If you would like to make a new entry in the directory use this link.   If you would like to update an existing entry look out for an email from us early next week with a unique link for you to update.
View the Directory here.  View the map here.

How to Volunteer and How to Recruit Volunteers in Camden

Volunteer in Camden at Time to Spare.
Volunteer for the NHS at GoodSAM.
Join a neighbourhood Mutual Aid group.
Organisations that are signed up to Time to Spare can now request volunteers through a brokerage team making it much easier to access the volunteers. The brokers can help match volunteers with voluntary and community organisations who have a need for verified/ vetted volunteers. The service will also help to verify or carry out new DBS check with volunteers.
Get support and resources from Volunteer Centre Camden
The council has a  page of resources to help community organisations

Keep in touch and up-to-date via the e-bulletin and @onecamden twitter.  We have a comprehensive COVID-19 update page and a resources page.

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

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