Kevin Nunan

VAC AGM

14th July 2020 5 – 6pm will be held online.  Join us for an update on VAC’s work and hear from the chair and trustees about our plans for the future. Email info@vac.org.uk to register your interest.

Build Back Better

Thanks to everyone who came to the last forum which was a chance to start planning for the future.  What might the future look like?  What do we need to consider?  What support will be needed?  We’ve gathered some resources to help people think about planning for the future.
~ Risk Assessment.  You can adapt these risk assessment templates here and here shared by our sister CVS organisations.
~ The risk assessment frameworks are based on the governments ‘Working Safely…‘ guidelines.  There is an offices and contact centres version.
~ Background reading: 6 characteristics of a resilient charity; A short guide to resilience for NGOs;
~ Recovery tools from Acevo and Voluntary Action Leeds and a website of tools from Charities Aid Foundation

Introduction to Data Collection and Analysis

Tuesday, July 7, 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Free
This session is part of a series of two-hour workshops being delivered for VAC’s Digital and IT Capacity Building Programme, in partnership with WCIT and CITA.
Covering: What do we mean by data? Understanding your business; What data should we collect and why? How to collect data, including tools.
The workshop will be delivered online using Zoom.  Book on Eventbrite.

The Camden Advice Network,

Made up of 12 local Camden organisations, launched in April and offers free and independent advice across a range of specialist topics. Citizens Advice Camden offer a general advice service and can help connect you to one of the specialist services. Call 0300 330 1157 Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm.

Catherine Capaldi

Many of you will already know the sad news that Catherine Capaldi has passed away. Catherine was known by many as a campaigner for access and inclusion in Camden and someone who fought so hard to make people aware of the issues affecting young disabled people.  She was one of the founding members of Young People for Inclusion and was a trustee of Elfrida Rathbone Camden.
If you would like to contribute  to the memorial webpage about Catherine, please write to catherine@elfridacamden.org.uk ideally by the end of June.

Call out to get involved

Camden Council would like to work with a small group of VCS representatives of diverse communities to help develop messages relating to the pandemic for residents.  If you are interested in being involved, send contact details, the area covered by your organisation; who you normally work with  and BAME communities you work with to cohesionandequalities@camden.gov.uk

Psychological First Aid online course

Public Health England has launched an updated Psychological First Aid (PFA) digital training module, aimed at all frontline and essential workers and volunteers.
The course aims to increase awareness and confidence to provide psychosocial support to people affected by COVID-19.  The course is free, and no previous qualifications are required. It takes around 90 minutes to complete and the learner can complete it at their own pace.

Queen’s awards for Voluntary service/COVID Honours/Queens Awards for enterprise

You can make nominations for:
Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service
Queen’s Awards for Enterprise
COVID Honours

Covid-19 Resources

VAC has gathered relevant resources on a range of topics.
Notable recent additions include:

• ABC guide to running teleconferencing social groups
• New Resources: ‘Planning for the Future’

Best Articles

London charities face £4bn shortfall due to coronavirus pandemic with thousands of good causes at risk

Rosa COVID-19 Response Fund for women’s organisations

£1-£10K. The funding is for specialist “by, for and with” women’s organisations  across the UK and is intended to help them meet short-term funding needs and respond to the coronavirus/COVID-19 crisis.
For more information and to apply please visit the Rosa website

BBC Children in Need- COVID-19 Next Step Grants Programme

Grants up to £80,000. Deadline 1st July
to help organisations with more complex service adaption, including additional staffing requirements. It is designed to be as flexible as possible, covering a wide range of activities. Projects can last up to 18 months and need to begin in September 2020. Full details on the website.

Coronavirus Community Support Fund

A £200m fimd aimed at small to medium organisations:
~ To increase community support to vulnerable people affected by the COVID-19 crisis, through the work of civil society organisations.
~ To reduce temporary closures of essential charities and social enterprises, ensuring services for vulnerable people impacted by COVID-19 have the financial resources to operate, and so reduce the burden on public services.
Full details on the National Lottery Community Fund website.

YCF Partners with Google to Launch the Digital Youth Work Fund

Young Camden Foundation (YCF) has launched the Digital Youth Work Fund sponsored by Google. This fund is designed to support Camden’s children and young people sector by creating or enhancing a digital youth work offer.
YCF will award members grants of up to £5,000
Applications will be considered on a rolling basis with the following deadlines: 29 May, 19 June and 3 July 2020.  Details at YCF website. Questions to grants@youngcamdenfoundation.org.uk.

London Community Response

Wave 3 of London Community Response will open shortly.  Wave 4 will focus on recovery later in the year.

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

Digital & Tech Support Online Q&A

Tuesdays 2 – 3.30pm
Many organisations are having to grapple with moving their office systems online so staff and volunteers can work remotely.We’ll look at:
~ What systems do you need?
~ How do you set them up?
~ What works and what doesn’t?
Q&A session with Gilbert Plant, our digital partner from CITA and WCIT.
Joining details here: https://vac.org.uk/events/
Email alexcharles@vac.org.uk

VAC Events

Voluntary Action Forums: (web page here)
Wed 1st July Covid-19 BAME Disparity & Health Inequalities
Wed 15th July Resilient Civil Society
Wed 29 July Space and Place – what role for buildings?
Build Back Better Workshop (Date in June/July tbc)
VAC AGM Tuesday 14th July 5pm
SPLN (Social Prescribing Learning Network) Venturing Out (date tbc)
Keep in eye on our Events Calendar next week to book and for more info.

Camden Voluntary Action Forum

The forum is open to all Camden voluntary and community  groups and organisation, community activists, social entreprenuers, volunteers and anyone interested in local voluntary action.  The next forum is a chance to look at Covid-19 BAME Disparity & Health Inequalities.  Register here.

These sessions will be hosted on zoom.  Ideally you will need a PC, laptop, tablet or smartphone with camera or microphone but you can also join by telephone as well. Click on the link or use the meeting ID.  You will also need the password if one was set. Short guide to joining a zoom meeting.

Safeguarding Courses:

VAC is working with funders so that safeguarding courses can continue online.  Further details to come. There are some basic safeguarding videos on the home page and on the COVID19 Update page.
Tel: 020 7 284 6575 | Email: dogunyemi@vac.org.uk email (Mon – Wed)

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

Two free Webinars from Latin American House

Both activities will be spoken in Spanish.
1) Coronavirus and the immigration rules, Tuesday, 23rd June, 3pm.
2) EU Settlement Scheme,Tuesday, 30th June,3pm.
To register please email  info@casalatina.org.uk with the name of the webinar on the subject line and you will receive further information.  Casa Latino.

Ubele Fundraising Support for BAME Organisations

Every Thursday at 3:30pm Ubele host fundraising webinars on a variety grant funds that are available with techniques on writing better applications. These webinars are free of charge and the presentations/resources are uploaded on our website.
A representative from LCRF will be speaking at our webinar scheduled for 25th June.
Registration for Fundraising Webinars here.

Camden Safeguarding Children Partnership

4 new virtual training safeguarding training sessions for June/July 2020.
Due to the current social distancing restrictions in place in light of COVID-19, the CSCP has worked with our experienced trainers to ensure that safeguarding training can still be made available to multi-agency partners.
Domestic Abuse  30 June 2020 — 2.00-3.00pm
Parental Mental Health and the Impact on Children 13 July 2020 — 10.00am-12.30pm
Full details and how to apply here.

Women+Health online group classes via Zoom

Aiming too help people feel calm, grounded, & centred during lockdown. We are currently running 4 online classes per week:
~ Tuesdays at 1pm, ‘Mindfulness for Women’ with Camilla (women only)
~ Wednesdays at 6:30pm, ‘Yoga Nidra’ with Lina (men & women welcome)
~ Thursdays 6:30pm, ‘Gentle Hatha Yoga’ with Diana (men & women welcome)
~ Fridays at 1pm, ‘Sound Healing’ with Catherine (men & women welcome)
All classes are donation classes – and all money we receive goes towards helping Women+Health survive while our doors are closed. The classes are FREE if people cannot donate.
All info to join classes and to donate can be found on our JustGiving page:

YPF COVID-19 Support Webinars are Available Online

Young People’s Foundation (YPF) has been hosting a webinar series to discuss topics related to COVID-19 support. In case you missed any of the presentations, the recordings are available online. Subjects include:
~ Cyber Service Offer for Children and Young People
~ Mental Health Awareness
– Employment
Webinar 9 – Wednesday 24 June – Summer Provision
The link to RSVP will be available soon on YCF’s website.

Respect online domestic abuse training

Respect has secured funding from the London Community Response Fund to offer free online training to Frontline Workers who support or have an interest in service users with domestic abuse issues.
Workers from the third sector; local authorities; counsellors/therapists; university lecturers, students or researchers; police; housing officers; healthcare staff; policy-makers etc.  – as long as the organisation they work for or the services they provide are based in Greater London.
Working with male victims of domestic abuse  1-14 July
Working with women using violence in intimate relationships 16-29 July
Better engagement with perpetrators 31 July-13 August
Adolescent to parent violence and abuse 15-28 August
Apply here.  Any questions, please email abigail.jones@respect.uk.net

Rush In Ballet

Ballet is a good challenge that will lift your spirits. As well as all of the benefits that come with pursuing a craft and with exercise, it is good to see some friendly faces and experience the camaraderie that we all so badly need.
You may even find Zoom classes less pressure than being in the studio, as you can disappear from the screen anytime you like to have a rest.
Saturday mornings, 10 AM.  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5836327600

Free training courses

Training Link has free online courses that people can do at home.  Improve your skills during the lockdown! The courses include Level 2
Food Safety & Hygiene, Customer Care, courses for care work and others. They can be done on a PC or laptop with internet access. For
more information, email Peter Lush on director@traininglink.org.uk

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.You can use the Brokerage service to request volunteers with specific skills or background for community activity.
Get support and resources from Volunteer Centre Camden
The council has a  page of resources to help community organisations

CDA seeks Chair of Board of Trustees

Camden Disability Action (CDA) is looking for a new Chair to build and lead a skilled Trustee board.
CDA is a Disabled People’s Organisation, which means it is run by Disabled people for Disabled people.
We are looking for a local Disabled person who has the skills and enthusiasm to provide strategic leadership for the organisation and to support making Greenwood a centre for social change.
The position of Chair of Trustees is unpaid. Board members are expected to attend 4 meetings a year. Induction into the organisation, safeguarding training and reimbursed travel costs are available for all the Trustees.
Details and how to apply here. Deadline June 30th 2020
Contact Colin Brummage, CEO on 07732 746 231 or colinceo@camdendisabilityaction.org.uk for more details.

Hopscotch Homecare seeks Live in Care Worker

Hopscotch are a well-established and expanding domiciliary care agency that has been providing careworkers to Camden clients and helping them to continue living safely and independently in their own homes for 20 years.Hopscotch focus on personal development and this post will enable the successful candidate to take advantage of the training and career-track development that we offer, among other benefits, and therefore to maximise their potential
Excellent Benefits and Incentives Offered. Covering South Camden: Kings Cross, Holborn, Covent Garden, Bloomsbury and surroundings. RoleTypes:Full-time, Part-time, Contract.  Experience:Caregiving: 1 year (Preferred). Contact: recruitment@hopscotchawc.org.uk

Age UK Camden Seeks ABC Programme Manager

(35 hours per week may consider PT 28/30 hours for the right candidate).
PO3 Scp 33-36 £39,171 to £42,295 pa.  Fixed term contract to 30th June 2021
In collaboration with existing Programme Manager (working 19 hours):
Your role will be to work to:
• Manage the Ageing Better in Camden Programme, working with the ABC Board, to deliver the outcomes as agreed with Big Lottery Fund.
• Be responsible for the delivery of the Ageing Better in Camden (ABC) projects, including through working with a range of delivery agencies.
For more details, all documents can be downloaded from our website www.ageukcamden.org.uk or email jobs@ageukcamden.org.uk.
Closing date  – 9am on 6th July and interviews will be held on 16th July

Elfrida Rathbone Community Champions Volunteers

The project supports residents and families on the Peckwater, Torriano and Oseney Estates as well as the wider Kentish Town area who have been affected by the corona virus.  For help with:
– food shopping and prescription pick up/drop off
– telephone befriending for anyone feeling anxious or isolated
– dog walking if you cannot leave the house
Volunteers from the local area who can provide support needed. All volunteers will be DBS checked and will receive an induction.
Contact Jill on 07939877745

SHAK is recruiting 2 posts

SHAK (South Hampstead and Kilburn Community Partnership) is recruiting:
Community Champions Coordinator
Full time- 35 hrs per week
Salary circa: £28-30,000 pa
and
Community Enabler
Full time- 35 hrs per week
Fixed Term for 6 months
Salary circa: £28-30,000 pa
Full detials and how to apply in the link. Closing date 23 June

Henna seeks an Advice & Outreach Worker

£12.05 ph  2 day pw- 14 hours  Interim 3 months with possible further 6 mths
Must have a willingness and aptitude to conduct outreach and establish contact with agencies and individuals to build a base for Henna Asian Women’s Group.  You will need experience of working with vulnerable adult groups and knowledge of the barriers they may face in accessing services. Contact Rafat.

The Society for the Furtherance of Critical Philosophy

SFCP, a small independent charity concerned with education, ethics and philosophy and with strong international links, seeks someone to take minutes of Trustee meetings, usually held in Central London, and to liaise with the secretary and trustees. Interest in our values and activities would be an advantage.
Other administrative tasks/meetings by agreement. @ £35/hr.
To discuss this opportunity, please contact the chair Dr Julie-Marie ffrench Devitt Applications on one side of A4 at: galangal19@yahoo.co.uk  website www.sfcp.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.

Camden Social Prescribing and Care Navigation update

Social Prescribing and Care Navigation delivered by Age UK Camden, Voluntary Action Camden and Wish+ is operational, and adapted, as a point of access to services and support during the COVID 19 emergency.
Referral form can be found here. Minimum requirements are contact details and permission to contact the person needing support.
Freephone: 0800 193 6067 (please leave a message if no answer)
Secure NHS email (referrals only): camccg.socialprescribingreferral@nhs.net
Community Links email (enquiries and referrals): communitylinks@vac.org.uk

Covid Top 20 In-Kind Offers

The latest list of Business offers to support voluntary and community sector organisations.  To request an offer email  Covid.InKind@london.gov.uk

VAC COVID-19 Pages

Covid-19 Community Directory  (Update your entry here) [Map here]
Covid-19 Update page.
Covid-19 Resources page

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.

Refugee Week

Next week is Refugee Week and this year’s theme is Imagine. Join Small Green Shoots to celebrate with their programme ‘The Cartography of Home’.

VAC Events

Voluntary Action Forums: (web page here)
Wed 17th June Planning for the Future (see events section for details)
Wed 1st July Covid-19 BAME Disparity & Health Inequalities
Wed 15th July Resilient Civil Society
Wed 29 July Space and Place – what role for buildings?
Build Back Better Workshop (Date in June/July tbc)
VAC AGM Tuesday 14th July 5pm
SPLN (Social Prescribing Learning Network)
July (date tbc) Venturing Out
Keep in eye on our Events Calendar next week to book and for more info.

Call out to get involved

Camden Council would like to work with a small group of VCS representatives of diverse communities to help develop messages relating to the pandemic for residents.  If you are interested in being involved, send contact details, the area covered by your organisation; who you normally work with  and BAME communities you work with to cohesionandequalities@camden.gov.uk

Pride

Pride in London has announced the postponement of the Parade due to take place on Saturday 27th June.- new date to be announced in due course. There is still plenty to do to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community across Camden.

Healthwatch Public Board Meeting

Join the public board meeting on Tuesday 16th June from 6-8 pm. The Director and Board of Trustees will review Healthwatch Camden’s impact and discuss plans for the year. The meeting will be held on Zoom. Email info@healthwatchcamden.co.uk for the meeting details.

Community Hot Meals Service

BWA has been running regular community food distributions
For more information contact Salik Miah on 07773327046 or Shahnaz 07752352179

New Castlehaven Food Bank

The new food bank has been setup to help people experiencing hardship as a direct consequence of the Covid-19 pandemic. Find out more about there service here –   Donate to the appeal – https://bit.ly/2za1t2s.
If you are struggling please call 07551798767 to arrange a food parcel delivery.
Castlehaven is also looking for food donations and volunteers to assemble and deliver packages.

Covid Top 20 In-Kind Offers

The latest list of Business offers to support voluntary and community sector organisations.  To request an offer email  Covid.InKind@london.gov.uk

Activities and Services in your community

Camden Disability Action
West Euston Partnership (WEP)
All Ways Network
Think and Do

Covid-19 Resources

VAC has gathered relevant resources on a range of topics.
Notable recent additions include:

• Dealing with Cash and Payments
• New Resources: ‘Planning for the Future’
• Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and people receiving direct payments
• Places of worship to re-open for individual prayer
• DWP Employment and Benefits website brings information into one place

Best Articles

Coronavirus leaves one in 10 UK charities facing bankruptcy this year
Battling not to be forgotten: UK charities on financial challenges
Key findings from Public Health England’s report on Covid-19 deaths
Charitable endowments: the £68bn elephant in the room

£63m funding for councils to assist with food & essentials

The will be additional funding for councils in England of £63m to help those who are struggling financially due to the impact of coronavirus. The additional funding will allow councils to continue to provide discretionary support to those facing severe hardship to allow them to pay for food and other necessities
Defra will engage with the LGA and councils to discuss the next steps.

Rosa COVID-19 Response Fund for women’s organisations

£1-£10K. The funding is for specialist “by, for and with” women’s organisations  across the UK and is intended to help them meet short-term funding needs and respond to the coronavirus/COVID-19 crisis.
For more information and to apply please visit the Rosa website

BBC Children in Need- COVID-19 Next Step Grants Programme

Grants up to £80,000. Deadline 1st July
to help organisations with more complex service adaption, including additional staffing requirements. It is designed to be as flexible as possible, covering a wide range of activities. Projects can last up to 18 months and need to begin in September 2020. Full details on the website.

Coronavirus Community Support Fund

A new £200m fimd aimed at small to medium organisations:
~ To increase community support to vulnerable people affected by the COVID-19 crisis, through the work of civil society organisations.
~ To reduce temporary closures of essential charities and social enterprises, ensuring services for vulnerable people impacted by COVID-19 have the financial resources to operate, and so reduce the burden on public services.
Full details on the National Lottery Community Fund website.

Grant Charities in South Camden

Three local grant-awarding charities offering assistance to people in financial hardship would like to let you know about their offers/schemes.
You can find links to each of the charities at the end of this newsletter, along with further information about their area of benefit, and how to apply.

Three New Funds from Camden Giving

Round 2 Now Open King’s Cross (KX) Fund – closing 15th June

YCF Partners with Google to Launch the Digital Youth Work Fund

Young Camden Foundation (YCF) has launched the Digital Youth Work Fund sponsored by Google. This fund is designed to support Camden’s children and young people sector by creating or enhancing a digital youth work offer.
YCF will award members grants of up to £5,000
Applications will be considered on a rolling basis with the following deadlines: 29 May, 19 June and 3 July 2020.  Details at YCF website. Questions to grants@youngcamdenfoundation.org.uk.

Food Grant Update

The Food Charity Grant Scheme requires charities to apply for at least £30,000. This is to target funding to those charities who have the capacity to reach the greatest number of people.
For those charities which would be interested in funding below £30,000, the National Lottery Funding is awarding grants from £300 to £10,000 and is prioritising organisations supporting people most likely to face increased demand and challenges as a result of the COVID-19 crisis.

London Community Response

The second wave of London Community Response funding currently paused for Delivering Differently   Wave 3 will open in June.  Wave 4 will focus on recovery later in the year.
1. Crisis response – grants up to £10,000 to meet the immediate needs
2. Delivering differently – grants of £10,000 to £50,000 to change how you work

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

Digital & Tech Support Online Q&A

Tuesdays 2 – 3.30pm
Many organisations are having to grapple with moving their office systems online so staff and volunteers can work remotely.We’ll look at:
~ What systems do you need?
~ How do you set them up?
~ What works and what doesn’t?
Q&A session with Gilbert Plant, our digital partner from CITA and WCIT.
Joining details here: https://vac.org.uk/events/
Email alexcharles@vac.org.uk

Camden Voluntary Action Forum

The forum is open to all Camden voluntary and community  groups and organisation, community activists, social entreprenuers, volunteers and anyone interested in local voluntary action.  The next forum is a chance to start planning for the future.  What might the future look like?  What do we need to consider?  What support will be needed?
Wed 17 June 11am  ‘Planning for the Future’
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81928837412?pwd=by8wcEhqNHV2OVh4aUNFR2RaL25NQT09
Meeting ID: 819 2883 7412  Password: email info@vac.org.uk

These sessions will be hosted on zoom.  Ideally you will need a PC, laptop, tablet or smartphone with camera or microphone but you can also join by telephone as well. Click on the link or use the meeting ID.  You will also need the password if one was set. Short guide to joining a zoom meeting.

Safeguarding Courses:

VAC is working with funders so that safeguarding courses can continue online.  Further details to come. There are some basic safeguarding videos on the home page and on the COVID19 Update page.
Tel: 020 7 284 6575 | Email: dogunyemi@vac.org.uk email (Mon – Wed)

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

Respect online domestic abuse training

Respect has secured funding from the London Community Response Fund to offer free online training to Frontline Workers who support or have an interest in service users with domestic abuse issues.
Workers from the third sector; local authorities; counsellors/therapists; university lecturers, students or researchers; police; housing officers; healthcare staff; policy-makers etc.  – as long as the organisation they work for or the services they provide are based in Greater London.
Working with male victims of domestic abuse  1-14 July
Working with women using violence in intimate relationships 16-29 July
Better engagement with perpetrators 31 July-13 August
Adolescent to parent violence and abuse 15-28 August
Apply here.  Any questions, please email abigail.jones@respect.uk.net

Camden Safeguarding Children Partnership

4 new virtual training safeguarding training sessions for June/July 2020.
Due to the current social distancing restrictions in place in light of COVID-19, the CSCP has worked with our experienced trainers to ensure that safeguarding training can still be made available to multi-agency partners.
Child Protection Level 2–3  19 June 2020 — 11.30am-12.30pm
Domestic Abuse  30 June 2020 — 2.00-3.00pm
Parental Mental Health and the Impact on Children 13 July 2020 — 10.00am-12.30pm
Full details and how to apply here.

Camden Early Help Friends Workshop (online)

This one-hour workshop is for those that work with or come across Camden children, young people and families. It will be delivered by the Camden Early Help Team and cover who family early help is for, what it does, how to get it, and the role we all play in helping families to get the help they need as early as possible. If you want to understand what family early help is and how Camden’s early help service works
18th June 2020, 10:00 – 11:00
To book please email learning@camden.gov.uk.
This session will run on MS Teams or join via browser on Edge or Chrome.

Women+Health online group classes via Zoom

Aiming too help people feel calm, grounded, & centred during lockdown. We are currently running 4 online classes per week:
~ Tuesdays at 1pm, ‘Mindfulness for Women’ with Camilla (women only)
~ Wednesdays at 6:30pm, ‘Yoga Nidra’ with Lina (men & women welcome)
~ Thursdays 6:30pm, ‘Gentle Hatha Yoga’ with Diana (men & women welcome)
~ Fridays at 1pm, ‘Sound Healing’ with Catherine (men & women welcome)
All classes are donation classes – and all money we receive goes towards helping Women+Health survive while our doors are closed. The classes are FREE if people cannot donate.
All info to join classes and to donate can be found on our JustGiving page:

YPF COVID-19 Support Webinars are Available Online

Young People’s Foundation (YPF) has been hosting a webinar series to discuss topics related to COVID-19 support. In case you missed any of the presentations, the recordings are available online. Subjects include:
~ Cyber Service Offer for Children and Young People
~ Safeguarding and Cyber Working
~ Support from Funders
~ Education
~ Furlough/HR/Legal Changes
~ Mental Health Awareness
~ Street Safety and Detached Work – recording coming soon!
Webinar 8 – Wednesday 17 June – Employment
Webinar 9 – Wednesday 24 June – Summer Provision
The link to RSVP will be available soon on YCF’s website.

Superhighways

Superhighways helps small charities and community groups in London do more with digital and data.  See the full training programme here.

Online peer support sessions for voluntary sector Leaders

Sign up to an online peer support session, offered by The Institute for Voluntary Action Research (IVAR). Sign up here – dates available to end of June.
These 90 minute sessions, for up to 10 voluntary sector leaders at a time, will give you the opportunity to explore and discuss the challenges you are currently experiencing, precipitated by the COVID-19 outbreak. We understand that you may be facing huge stress and uncertainty, and hope that these sessions will offer a space to share experiences, dilemmas and worries.

FSI Fundraising Conference June 2020

The FSI’s popular Fundraising Conference is back.  Online on 18th June to hear from small charity experts sharing their knowledge and real-life experiences. In light of the challenges facingthe sector the Conference is free to attend for charities under £100k turnover

Rush In Ballet

Ballet is a good challenge that will lift your spirits. As well as all of the benefits that come with pursuing a craft and with exercise, it is good to see some friendly faces and experience the camaraderie that we all so badly need.
Don’t worry if you feel shy, everyone is welcome regardless of level or how you may be feeling at the moment. You can turn your own camera on or off, so you can either just follow along or get feedback from me if you want it.
You may even find Zoom classes less pressure than being in the studio, as you can disappear from the screen anytime you like to have a rest.
Saturday mornings, 10 AM.  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5836327600

Free training courses

Training Link has free online courses that people can do at home.  Improve your skills during the lockdown! The courses include Level 2
Food Safety & Hygiene, Customer Care, courses for care work and others. They can be done on a PC or laptop with internet access. For
more information, email Peter Lush on director@traininglink.org.uk

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.You can use the Brokerage service to request volunteers with specific skills or background for community activity.
Get support and resources from Volunteer Centre Camden
The council has a  page of resources to help community organisations

CDA seeks Chair of Board of Trustees

Camden Disability Action (CDA) is looking for a new Chair to build and lead a skilled Trustee board.
CDA is a Disabled People’s Organisation, which means it is run by Disabled people for Disabled people. This is an important time for the organisation and it needs a strong chair to lead it into the next phase of its development and growth.
We are looking for a local Disabled person who has the skills and enthusiasm to provide strategic leadership for the organisation and to support making Greenwood a centre for social change.
The position of Chair of Trustees is unpaid. Board members are expected to attend 4 meetings a year. Induction into the organisation, safeguarding training and reimbursed travel costs are available for all the Trustees.
Details and how to apply here. Deadline June 30th 2020
Should you have any questions or would like to discuss the role in more detail please contact Colin Brummage, CEO on 07732 746 231 or colinceo@camdendisabilityaction.org.uk

Hopscotch Homecare seeks Live in Care Worker

Hopscotch are a well-established and expanding domiciliary care agency that has been providing careworkers to Camden clients and helping them to continue living safely and independently in their own homes for 20 years.Hopscotch focus on personal development and this post will enable the successful candidate to take advantage of the training and career-track development that we offer, among other benefits, and therefore to maximise their potential
Excellent Benefits and Incentives Offered. Covering South Camden: Kings Cross, Holborn, Covent Garden, Bloomsbury and surroundings. RoleTypes:Full-time, Part-time, Contract.  Experience:Caregiving: 1 year (Preferred). Contact: recruitment@hopscotchawc.org.uk

Age UK Camden Seeks ABC Programme Manager

(35 hours per week may consider PT 28/30 hours for the right candidate).
PO3 Scp 33-36 £39,171 to £42,295 pa.  Fixed term contract to 30th June 2021
In collaboration with existing Programme Manager (working 19 hours):
Your role will be to work to:
• Manage the Ageing Better in Camden Programme, working with the ABC Board, to deliver the outcomes as agreed with Big Lottery Fund.
• Be responsible for the delivery of the Ageing Better in Camden (ABC) projects, including through working with a range of delivery agencies.
For more details, all documents can be downloaded from our website www.ageukcamden.org.uk or email jobs@ageukcamden.org.uk.
Closing date  – 9am on 6th July and interviews will be held on 16th July

Elfrida Rathbone Community Champions Volunteers

The project supports residents and families on the Peckwater, Torriano and Oseney Estates as well as the wider Kentish Town area who have been affected by the corona virus.  For help with:
– food shopping and prescription pick up/drop off
– telephone befriending for anyone feeling anxious or isolated
– dog walking if you cannot leave the house
Volunteers from the local area who can provide support needed. All volunteers will be DBS checked and will receive an induction.
Contact Jill on 07939877745

SHAK is recruiting 2 posts

SHAK (South Hampstead and Kilburn Community Partnership) is recruiting:
Community Champions Coordinator
Full time- 35 hrs per week
Salary circa: £28-30,000 pa
and
Community Enabler
Full time- 35 hrs per week
Fixed Term for 6 months
Salary circa: £28-30,000 pa
Full detials and how to apply in the link.

London Plus seeks Social Prescribing Network Co-ordinator

To lead on promoting, supporting and developing social prescribing in the VCSE sector across London. You will develop and support the social prescribing network
Social Prescribing Network Coordinator Job Pack Newsletter.pdf
The closing date for applications is the 16th June 2020.
If you have any questions please email martin@londonplus.org (Martin Brookes, chief executive)

Henna seeks an Advice & Outreach Worker

£12.05 ph  2 day pw- 14 hours  Interim 3 months with possible further 6 mths
Must have a willingness and aptitude to conduct outreach and establish contact with agencies and individuals to build a base for Henna Asian Women’s Group.  You will need experience of working with vulnerable adult groups and knowledge of the barriers they may face in accessing services. Contact Rafat.

The Society for the Furtherance of Critical Philosophy

SFCP, a small independent charity concerned with education, ethics and philosophy and with strong international links, seeks someone to take minutes of Trustee meetings, usually held in Central London, and to liaise with the secretary and trustees. Interest in our values and activities would be an advantage.
Other administrative tasks/meetings by agreement. @ £35/hr.
To discuss this opportunity, please contact the chair Dr Julie-Marie ffrench Devitt Applications on one side of A4 at: galangal19@yahoo.co.uk  website www.sfcp.org.uk.

Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust is Recruiting

The Trust is seeking two new Non-Executive directors and will also be seeking Associate NEDs soon.
Further information and how to apply:
https://jobs.theguardian.com/job/7065257/non-executive-directors/
https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/cap/view/1857606711/?pathWildcard=1857606711&trk=job_capjs

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.

Camden Social Prescribing and Care Navigation update

Social Prescribing and Care Navigation delivered by Age UK Camden, Voluntary Action Camden and Wish+ is operational, and adapted, as a point of access to services and support during the COVID 19 emergency.
Referral form can be found here. Minimum requirements are contact details and permission to contact the person needing support.
Freephone: 0800 193 6067 (please leave a message if no answer. Staff are using other phones to call back and keep this one free)
Secure NHS email (referrals only): camccg.socialprescribingreferral@nhs.net
Community Links email (enquiries and referrals): communitylinks@vac.org.uk

Disproportionate Impact of Covid-19 Report

Public Health England has published its long-awaited report Disparities in the risks and outcomes of COVID-19, which concludes that the risk of death as a result of COVID-19 is higher for people (especially men) from black and minority ethnic backgrounds.

VAC COVID-19 Pages

Covid-19 Community Directory  (Update your entry here) [Map here]
Covid-19 Update page.
Covid-19 Resources page

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.

Carer’s Week

Next week is Carers’ Week – a great opportunity to support all the carers in Camden.  Camden Carers have a full programme of events.  Follow #carersweek

GLA Mutual Aid Groups Survey

The GLA is surveying Mutual Aid Groups to learn more about them.  Take part.

Reporting serious incidents to the Charity Commission

The Charity Commission has updated its guidance on reporting serious incidents. The requirement to  report a sudden reduction in income doesn’t apply if its coronavirus related, but charities will still have to report if they have suspended operations.  The full guidance, with examples, is here.

Activities and Services in your community

Camden Disability Action
West Euston Partnership (WEP)
All Ways Network

Covid-19 Resources

VAC has gathered relevant resources on a range of topics.
Notable recent additions include:

• anti-racism resources: Shake, Anti Racism Resources & It’s Nice That
• Government FAQ on what you can and can’t do now.
• Test and trace flow chart.

Best Articles

Coronavirus volunteers aren’t just a source of free labour – don’t take advantage of them
Austerity is the Killer – Michael Marmot
Experts decry easing of coronavirus lockdown for England’s shielders

Rosa COVID-19 Response Fund for women’s organisations

£1-£10K. The funding is for specialist “by, for and with” women’s organisations  across the UK and is intended to help them meet short-term funding needs and respond to the coronavirus/COVID-19 crisis.
For more information and to apply please visit the Rosa website

Grant Charities in South Camden

Three local grant-awarding charities offering assistance to people in financial hardship would like to let you know about their offers/schemes.
You can find links to each of the charities at the end of this newsletter, along with further information about their area of benefit, and how to apply.

Coronavirus Community Support Fund

A new £200m fimd aimed at small to medium organisations:
~ To increase community support to vulnerable people affected by the COVID-19 crisis, through the work of civil society organisations.
~ To reduce temporary closures of essential charities and social enterprises, ensuring services for vulnerable people impacted by COVID-19 have the financial resources to operate, and so reduce the burden on public services.
Full details on the National Lottery Community Fund website.

Grant Charities in South Camden

Three local grant-awarding charities offering assistance to people in financial hardship would like to let you know about their offers/schemes.
You can find links to each of the charities at the end of this newsletter, along with further information about their area of benefit, and how to apply.

Three New Funds from Camden Giving

Round 2 Now Open King’s Cross (KX) Fund – closing 15th June
Future Changemakers Fund – Year 2 – closing 8th June

YCF Partners with Google to Launch the Digital Youth Work Fund

Young Camden Foundation (YCF) has launched the Digital Youth Work Fund sponsored by Google. This fund is designed to support Camden’s children and young people sector by creating or enhancing a digital youth work offer.
YCF will award members grants of up to £5,000
Applications will be considered on a rolling basis with the following deadlines: 29 May, 19 June and 3 July 2020.  Details at YCF website. Questions to grants@youngcamdenfoundation.org.uk.

Food Grant Update

The Food Charity Grant Scheme requires charities to apply for at least £30,000. This is to target funding to those charities who have the capacity to reach the greatest number of people.
For those charities which would be interested in funding below £30,000, the National Lottery Funding is awarding grants from £300 to £10,000 and is prioritising organisations supporting people most likely to face increased demand and challenges as a result of the COVID-19 crisis.

Government Support to Small Businesses

The Government support grants to businesses have been tied to those with premises and there are complicated rules making it hard for charities who may well be eligible to access the funds.  We have some detailed guidance. Local Authorities will be publishing their new guidance soon.

London Community Response

The second wave of London Community Response funding currently paused for Delivering Differently   Wave 3 will open in June.  Wave 4 will focus on recovery later in the year.
1. Crisis response – grants up to £10,000 to meet the immediate needs
2. Delivering differently – grants of £10,000 to £50,000 to change how you work

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

Digital & Tech Support Online Q&A

Tuesdays 2 – 3.30pm
Many organisations are having to grapple with moving their office systems online so staff and volunteers can work remotely.We’ll look at:
~ What systems do you need?
~ How do you set them up?
~ What works and what doesn’t?
Q&A session with Gilbert Plant, our digital partner from CITA and WCIT.
Joining details here: https://vac.org.uk/events/
Email alexcharles@vac.org.uk

Camden Voluntary Action Forum

The forum is open to all Camden voluntary and community  groups and organisation, community activists, social entreprenuers, volunteers and anyone interested in local voluntary action.  It’s a chance to catch up with the latest situation in Camden and to share what you are doing. Each forum also looks at a specific topic.  Currently the forum is fortnightly and online.  Recent forums have looked at ‘Online and off line activities’, ‘financial impact survey results’ and ‘sector support needs’.  Joining details are sent a few days before each meeting.  Contact info@vac.org.uk to join the list.  Upcoming dates:
Wed 17 June 11am  Planning for the Future
Wed 1 July 11am Disporportionate Impact of Covid-19 on BAME Communities

These sessions will be hosted on zoom.  Ideally you will need a PC, laptop, tablet or smartphone with camera or microphone but you can also join by telephone as well. Click on the link or use the meeting ID.  You will also need the password if one was set. Short guide to joining a zoom meeting.

Safeguarding Courses:

VAC is working with funders so that safeguarding courses can continue online.  Further details to come. There are some basic safeguarding videos on the home page and on the COVID19 Update page.
Tel: 020 7 284 6575 | Email: dogunyemi@vac.org.uk email (Mon – Wed)

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

Camden Safeguarding Children Partnership

4 new virtual training safeguarding training sessions for June/July 2020.
Due to the current social distancing restrictions in place in light of COVID-19, the CSCP has worked with our experienced trainers to ensure that safeguarding training can still be made available to multi-agency partners.
Understanding Early Help in Camden 11 June 2020 — 10.00-11.00am
Child Protection Level 2–3  19 June 2020 — 11.30am-12.30pm
Domestic Abuse  30 June 2020 — 2.00-3.00pm
Parental Mental Health and the Impact on Children 13 July 2020 — 10.00am-12.30pm
Full details and how to apply here.

Camden Early Help Friends Workshop (online)

This one-hour workshop is for those that work with or come across Camden children, young people and families. It will be delivered by the Camden Early Help Team and cover who family early help is for, what it does, how to get it, and the role we all play in helping families to get the help they need as early as possible. If you want to understand what family early help is and how Camden’s early help service works please book one of these sessions.
9th June 2020, 19:00 – 20:00 or 18th June 2020, 10:00 – 11:00
To book please email learning@camden.gov.uk.
This session will run on MS Teams or join via browser on Edge or Chrome.

Women+Health online group classes via Zoom

Aiming too help people feel calm, grounded, & centred during lockdown. We are currently running 4 online classes per week:
~ Tuesdays at 1pm, ‘Mindfulness for Women’ with Camilla (women only)
~ Wednesdays at 6:30pm, ‘Yoga Nidra’ with Lina (men & women welcome)
~ Thursdays 6:30pm, ‘Gentle Hatha Yoga’ with Diana (men & women welcome)
~ Fridays at 1pm, ‘Sound Healing’ with Catherine (men & women welcome)
All classes are donation classes – and all money we receive goes towards helping Women+Health survive while our doors are closed. The classes are FREE if people cannot donate.
All info to join classes and to donate can be found on our JustGiving page:

YPF COVID-19 Support Webinars are Available Online

Young People’s Foundation (YPF) has been hosting a webinar series to discuss topics related to COVID-19 support. In case you missed any of the presentations, the recordings are available online. Subjects include:
~ Cyber Service Offer for Children and Young People
~ Safeguarding and Cyber Working
~ Support from Funders
~ Education
~ Furlough/HR/Legal Changes
~ Mental Health Awareness
~ Street Safety and Detached Work – recording coming soon!
Webinar 8 – Wednesday 17 June – Employment
Webinar 9 – Wednesday 24 June – Summer Provision
The link to RSVP will be available soon on YCF’s website.

Superhighways

Superhighways helps small charities and community groups in London do more with digital and data.  See the full training programme here.

Online peer support sessions for voluntary sector Leaders

Sign up to an online peer support session, offered by The Institute for Voluntary Action Research (IVAR). Sign up here – dates available to end of June.
These 90 minute sessions, for up to 10 voluntary sector leaders at a time, will give you the opportunity to explore and discuss the challenges you are currently experiencing, precipitated by the COVID-19 outbreak. We understand that you may be facing huge stress and uncertainty, and hope that these sessions will offer a space to share experiences, dilemmas and worries.

FSI Fundraising Conference June 2020

The FSI’s popular Fundraising Conference is back.  Online on 18th June to hear from small charity experts sharing their knowledge and real-life experiences. In light of the challenges facingthe sector the Conference is free to attend for charities under £100k turnover

Rush In Ballet

Ballet is a good challenge that will lift your spirits. As well as all of the benefits that come with pursuing a craft and with exercise, it is good to see some friendly faces and experience the camaraderie that we all so badly need.
Don’t worry if you feel shy, everyone is welcome regardless of level or how you may be feeling at the moment. You can turn your own camera on or off, so you can either just follow along or get feedback from me if you want it.
You may even find Zoom classes less pressure than being in the studio, as you can disappear from the screen anytime you like to have a rest.
Saturday mornings, 10 AM.  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5836327600

Free training courses

Training Link has free online courses that people can do at home.  Improve your skills during the lockdown! The courses include Level 2
Food Safety & Hygiene, Customer Care, courses for care work and others. They can be done on a PC or laptop with internet access. For
more information, email Peter Lush on director@traininglink.org.uk

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.You can use the Brokerage service to request volunteers with specific skills or background for community activity.
Get support and resources from Volunteer Centre Camden
The council has a  page of resources to help community organisations

Elfrida Rathbone Community Champions Volunteers

The project supports residents and families on the Peckwater, Torriano and Oseney Estates as well as the wider Kentish Town area who have been affected by the corona virus.  For help with:
– food shopping and prescription pick up/drop off
– telephone befriending for anyone feeling anxious or isolated
– dog walking if you cannot leave the house
Volunteers from the local area who can provide support needed. All volunteers will be DBS checked and will receive an induction.
Contact Jill on 07939877745

London Plus seeks Social Prescribing Network Co-ordinator

To lead on promoting, supporting and developing social prescribing in the VCSE sector across London. You will develop and support the social prescribing network
Social Prescribing Network Coordinator Job Pack Newsletter.pdf
The closing date for applications is the 16th June 2020.
If you have any questions please email martin@londonplus.org (Martin Brookes, chief executive)

CDA seeks new Chair

Camden Disability Action (CDA) is looking for a new Chair to build and lead a skilled Trustee board.
We are looking for a local Disabled person who has the skills and enthusiasm to provide strategic leadership for the organisation and to support making Greenwood a centre for social change.

Henna seeks an Advice & Outreach Worker

£12.05 ph  2 day pw- 14 hours  Interim 3 months with possible further 6 mths
Must have a willingness and aptitude to conduct outreach and establish contact with agencies and individuals to build a base for Henna Asian Women’s Group.  You will need experience of working with vulnerable adult groups and knowledge of the barriers they may face in accessing services. Contact Rafat.

The Society for the Furtherance of Critical Philosophy

SFCP, a small independent charity concerned with education, ethics and philosophy and with strong international links, seeks someone to take minutes of Trustee meetings, usually held in Central London, and to liaise with the secretary and trustees. Interest in our values and activities would be an advantage.
Other administrative tasks/meetings by agreement. @ £35/hr.
To discuss this opportunity, please contact the chair Dr Julie-Marie ffrench Devitt Applications on one side of A4 at: galangal19@yahoo.co.uk  website www.sfcp.org.uk.

Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust is Recruiting

The Trust is seeking two new Non-Executive directors and will also be seeking Associate NEDs soon.
Further information and how to apply:
https://jobs.theguardian.com/job/7065257/non-executive-directors/
https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/cap/view/1857606711/?pathWildcard=1857606711&trk=job_capjs

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.

Camden Social Prescribing and Care Navigation update

Social Prescribing and Care Navigation delivered by Age UK Camden, Voluntary Action Camden and Wish+ is operational, and adapted, as a point of access to services and support during the COVID 19 emergency.
Referral form can be found here. Minimum requirements are contact details and permission to contact the person needing support.
Freephone: 0800 193 6067 (please leave a message if no answer. Staff are using other phones to call back and keep this one free)
Secure NHS email (referrals only): camccg.socialprescribingreferral@nhs.net
Community Links email (enquiries and referrals): communitylinks@vac.org.uk

Covid Top 20 In-Kind Offers

A revised list of Business offers to support voluntary and community sector organisations.  To request an offer email  Covid.InKind@london.gov.uk

VAC COVID-19 Pages

Covid-19 Community Directory  (Update your entry here) [Map here]
Covid-19 Update page.
Covid-19 Resources page

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.

Don’t Miss it! The Camden Giving Covid-19 Fund closes for applications end of Monday 1st June (see funding section)

Grant Charities in South Camden

Three local grant-awarding charities offering assistance to people in financial hardship would like to let you know about their offers/schemes.
You can find links to each of the charities at the end of this newsletter, along with further information about their area of benefit, and how to apply.

Covid Top 20 In-Kind Offers

A revised list of Business offers to support voluntary and community sector organisations.  To request an offer email  Covid.InKind@london.gov.uk

Camden Care Choices

The redesigned Camden Care Choices website is now live.   Send comments or additions to fung-yee.lee@camden.gov.uk

Last Chance – Have your say – Financial Impact Survey

It’s really important that when we make the case for the sector that we have a good picture of the financial impact the Covid-19 emergency has had on organisations.  Please take our Financial Impact Survey.

Have Your Say on the QCCA Survey

The Fight C19 emergency response service has been running since March. What services and activities do you need in the next six months.

Activities and Services in your community

Camden Disability Action
Pop Up Think and Do
West Euston Partnership (WEP)
Healthwatch Camden
All Ways Network
The Great Get Together .

Covid-19 Resources

VAC has gathered relevant resources on a range of topics.
Notable recent additions include:

• Independent Age Grant Scheme
• My Community a new website to inspire you
• Healthwatch Camden – Lockdown not good for emotional wellbeing
• Government Support for sector in one place

VAC COVID-19 Pages

Covid-19 Community Directory  (Update your entry here) [Map here]
Covid-19 Update page.
Covid-19 Resources page

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.

Rush In Ballet

Ballet is a good challenge that will lift your spirits. As well as all of the benefits that come with pursuing a craft and with exercise, it is good to see some friendly faces and experience the camaraderie that we all so badly need.
Don’t worry if you feel shy, everyone is welcome regardless of level or how you may be feeling at the moment. You can turn your own camera on or off, so you can either just follow along or get feedback from me if you want it.
You may even find Zoom classes less pressure than being in the studio, as you can disappear from the screen anytime you like to have a rest.
Saturday mornings, 10 AM.  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5836327600

Best Articles

UK volunteering soars during coronavirus crisis
Faster, further, fairer: Putting people at the heart of tackling the climate and nature emergency
Poorer areas miss out as £100m of emergency cash diverted to richer Tory councils with lower infection rates
Responding to the end of lockdown – what charities can learn from World War One
AOC’s Mutual Aid 101

Coronavirus Community Support Fund

A new £200m fimd aimed at small to medium organisations:
~ To increase community support to vulnerable people affected by the COVID-19 crisis, through the work of civil society organisations.
~ To reduce temporary closures of essential charities and social enterprises, ensuring services for vulnerable people impacted by COVID-19 have the financial resources to operate, and so reduce the burden on public services.
Full details on the National Lottery Community Fund website.

Three New Funds from Camden Giving

1.Camden COVID-19 Charity Fund
2. Round 2 Now Open King’s Cross (KX) Fund
3. Future Changemakers Fund – Year 2
Click here for full details.

YCF Partners with Google to Launch the Digital Youth Work Fund

Young Camden Foundation (YCF) has launched the Digital Youth Work Fund sponsored by Google. This fund is designed to support Camden’s children and young people sector by creating or enhancing a digital youth work offer.
YCF will award members grants of up to £5,000
Applications will be considered on a rolling basis with the following deadlines: 29 May, 19 June and 3 July 2020.  Details at YCF website. Questions to grants@youngcamdenfoundation.org.uk.

Food Grant Update

The Food Charity Grant Scheme requires charities to apply for at least £30,000. This is to target funding to those charities who have the capacity to reach the greatest number of people.
For those charities which would be interested in funding below £30,000, the National Lottery Funding is awarding grants from £300 to £10,000 and is prioritising organisations supporting people most likely to face increased demand and challenges as a result of the COVID-19 crisis.

Government Support to Small Businesses

The Government support grants to businesses have been tied to those with premises and there are complicated rules making it hard for charities who may well be eligible to access the funds.  We have some detailed guidance. Local Authorities will be publishing their new guidance soon.

London Community Response

The second wave of London Community Response funding currently paused for Delivering Differently   Wave 3 will open in June.  Wave 4 will focus on recovery later in the year.
1. Crisis response – grants up to £10,000 to meet the immediate needs
2. Delivering differently – grants of £10,000 to £50,000 to change how you work

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

Digital & Tech Support Online Q&A

Tuesdays 2 – 3.30pm
Many organisations are having to grapple with moving their office systems online so staff and volunteers can work remotely.We’ll look at:
~ What systems do you need?
~ How do you set them up?
~ What works and what doesn’t?
Q&A session with Gilbert Plant, our digital partner from CITA and WCIT.
Joining details here: https://vac.org.uk/events/
Email alexcharles@vac.org.uk

These sessions will be hosted on zoom.  Ideally you will need a PC, laptop, tablet or smartphone with camera or microphone but you can also join by telephone as well. Click on the link or use the meeting ID.  You will also need the password if one was set. Short guide to joining a zoom meeting.

Safeguarding Courses:

VAC is working with funders so that safeguarding courses can continue online.  Further details to come. There are some basic safeguarding videos on the home page and on the COVID19 Update page.
Tel: 020 7 284 6575 | Email: dogunyemi@vac.org.uk email (Mon – Wed)

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

Online peer support sessions for voluntary sector Leaders

Sign up to an online peer support session, offered by The Institute for Voluntary Action Research (IVAR). Sign up here – dates available to end of June.
These 90 minute sessions, for up to 10 voluntary sector leaders at a time, will give you the opportunity to explore and discuss the challenges you are currently experiencing, precipitated by the COVID-19 outbreak. We understand that you may be facing huge stress and uncertainty, and hope that these sessions will offer a space to share experiences, dilemmas and worries.

FSI Fundraising Conference June 2020

The FSI’s popular Fundraising Conference is back.  Online on 18th June to hear from small charity experts sharing their knowledge and real-life experiences. In light of the challenges facingthe sector the Conference is free to attend for charities under £100k turnover

Furlough Go – Mobilising volunteers during COVID-19 –

Free online event with SPACE4 on June 4th
Furlough Go was built quickly as soon as the COVID-19 crisis gripped the UK. Furlough Go matches community groups who need to take on additional volunteers to respond to the crisis, with furloughed workers who want to help. During this webinar the developers behind the project will talk about how they realised the project so quickly, the impact that it has made so far, and how it can be used by more organisations and in ongoing situations. Register here

Camden Disability Action Leadership Programme

Are you a Disabled person in Camden who wants to do something to benefit other Disabled people? Maybe you always wanted to: Start a campaign? Design a new online service? Start a new peer support group? Or have other ideas about what Disabled people need right now. Find out more here.

Get Involved: Online talks for Kentish Town

A new series of talks, each episode will focus on a community organisation with the aim of raising awareness of their activities, and telling their story in a way that connects with the audience. It is an opportunity to reach locals who would benefit from their
services and also those in a position to support the organisation in some way. For further information email hello@get-involved.org.uk

Free training courses

Training Link has free online courses that people can do at home.  Improve your skills during the lockdown! The courses include Level 2
Food Safety & Hygiene, Customer Care, courses for care work and others. They can be done on a PC or laptop with internet access. For
more information, email Peter Lush on director@traininglink.org.uk

Ageing Better in Camden

ABC are collecting a wealth of resources to keep us entertained, happy, healthy and creative during this time. If you’d like to suggest a resource to add. Please email ageingbetterincamden@ageukcamden.org.uk with your ideas.

Free Online Social Activities Directory

The RecommendMe directory is where people  can search for social activities, events and other things to do.  Includes: Carers art groups on Zoom, Carers online cuppa, Over 60s Peer to peer befriending,  Virtual creative writing for the over 60s, Gardening workshops on Zoom, Boost your emotional strength, Make and mend (chat and stitch) groups.

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.You can use the Brokerage service to request volunteers with specific skills or background for community activity.
Get support and resources from Volunteer Centre Camden
The council has a  page of resources to help community organisations

CDA seeks new Chair

Camden Disability Action (CDA) is looking for a new Chair to build and lead a skilled Trustee board.
We are looking for a local Disabled person who has the skills and enthusiasm to provide strategic leadership for the organisation and to support making Greenwood a centre for social change.

Henna is recruiting an Advice & Outreach Worker

£12.05 ph  2 day pw- 14 hours  Interim 3 months with possible further 6 mths
Must have a willingness and aptitude to conduct outreach and establish contact with agencies and individuals to build a base for Henna Asian Women’s Group.  You will need experience of working with vulnerable adult groups and knowledge of the barriers they may face in accessing services. Contact Rafat.

The Society for the Furtherance of Critical Philosophy (www.sfcp.org.uk)

SFCP, a small independent charity concerned with education, ethics and philosophy and with strong international links, seeks someone to take minutes of Trustee meetings, usually held in Central London, and to liaise with the secretary and trustees. Interest in our values and activities would be an advantage.
Other administrative tasks/meetings by agreement. @ £35/hr.
To discuss this opportunity, please contact the chair Dr Julie-Marie ffrench Devitt Applications on one side of A4 at: galangal19@yahoo.co.uk  website www.sfcp.org.uk.

Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust is Recruiting

The Trust is seeking two new Non-Executive directors and will also be seeking Associate NEDs soon.
Further information and how to apply:
https://jobs.theguardian.com/job/7065257/non-executive-directors/
https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/cap/view/1857606711/?pathWildcard=1857606711&trk=job_capjs

HEAR is Recruiting

HEAR Equality Network:  Interim Managing Director
Invitation for Expressions of Interest for post to start 1st July
(Application by Cover letter/CV: Deadline 26th May)
The HEAR Network of London’s Equality and Human Rights VCS is a small organisation starting an important new phase in its development.  As an important part of this we are appointing an Interim Managing Director, part time, fixed term.
2 days a week, 9 months initially with temporary extension subject to funding, £35,000 pro rata
Full details on the HEAR website.

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.

Camden Social Prescribing and Care Navigation update

Social Prescribing and Care Navigation delivered by Age UK Camden, Voluntary Action Camden and Wish+ is operational, and adapted, as a point of access to services and support during the COVID 19 emergency.
We are aiming to connect residents with emerging support in their local areas where there is appropriate provision.
Referral form can be found here. Minimum requirements are contact details and permission to contact the person needing support.
Freephone: 0800 193 6067 (please leave a message if no answer. Staff are using other phones to call back and keep this one free)
Secure NHS email (referrals only): camccg.socialprescribingreferral@nhs.net
Community Links email (enquiries and referrals): communitylinks@vac.org.uk

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.

Covid Top 20 In-Kind Offers

Business offers to support voluntary and community sector organisations:
~ Employee volunteers from top companies
~ Free use of fleet cars, transportation and delivery services
~ A range of in-kind digital offers
~ Free space for operations or storage across London
Browse the “top twenty” list here.
To request an offer email  Covid.InKind@london.gov.uk

Details of LA’s Discretionary Grants Fund published

It is expected that this will be open to charities with properties that are receiving charities business rates relief – however please note that every LA will be expected to develop its own criteria.
Read the details here.  VAC’s summary is here.  Read the govt. guide here.

Financial Impact of the Covid-19 Emergency Survey

It’s really important that when we make the case for the sector that we have a good picture of the financial impact the Covid-19 emergency has had on organisations.  Please take our Financial Impact Survey.

Making travel safer in Camden

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has created new road safety challenges in Camden.
Have your say on where you think changes are needed here.

Activities and Services in your community

Pop Up Think and Do
West Euston Partnership (WEP)
Healthwatch Camden
All Ways Network
The Great Get Together .

Covid-19 Resources

VAC has gathered relevant resources on a range of topics.
Notable recent additions include:

• Working Safely During Covid-19
• A range of updated government guidance on 21/5/20
• Use of Face Coverings
• Council Press Release on Support to VCS

VAC COVID-19 Pages

Covid-19 Community Directory  (Update your entry here) [Map here]
Covid-19 Update page.
Covid-19 Resources page

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.

Best Articles

Why is it so difficult to say anything sensible about charities?
Discipline and Agility in a Crisis
What Mutual Aid Can Do During a Pandemic

Coronavirus Community Support Fund is open!

£200m aimed at small to medium orgs
~ To increase community support to vulnerable people affected by the COVID-19 crisis
~ To reduce temporary closures of essential charities and social enterprises
https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk/news/press-releases/2020-05-20/statement-about-the-coronavirus-community-support-fund

Three New Funds from Camden Giving Open

1.Camden COVID-19 Charity Fund
2. Round 2 Now Open King’s Cross (KX) Fund
3. Future Changemakers Fund – Year 2
Click here for full details.

YCF Partners with Google to Launch the Digital Youth Work Fund

Young Camden Foundation (YCF) has launched the Digital Youth Work Fund sponsored by Google. This fund is designed to support Camden’s children and young people sector by creating or enhancing a digital youth work offer.
YCF will award members grants of up to £5,000
Applications will be considered on a rolling basis with the following deadlines: 29 May, 19 June and 3 July 2020.  Details at YCF website. Questions to grants@youngcamdenfoundation.org.uk.

Food Charities Grant Fund

Apply for a grant of up to £100,000 for your charity helping people affected by coronavirus (COVID-19).
If you run a front-line food aid charity in England, you can apply for a grant of up to £100,000 to help you continue to provide food to the vulnerable.
Applications to Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra)

Government funding package

The government revealed their funding package for charities, of which £370 million will be available for small charities delivering essential frontline COVID-19 related services for vulnerable people through the Community fund. Details of the fund are now on the National Lottery Community Fund website. Small funding (up to £10,000) is still being distributed by Awards for All.  Further local distribution is planned – details to follow.

Somers Town Big Local Covid-19 Emergency Fund

Grants up to £1500 aimed at responding to the Covid-19 emergency in Somers Town.  Telephone 020 8364 8400 to book a telephone appointment. Deadline Monday 25th May.  engagement@stbl.org.uk

Hampstead Wells & Campden Trust

is a small funder that can assist organisations in NW3, NW6 and Camden parts of NW2. During the COVID-19 crisis we are working to provide support for individuals and families in need through small grants for emergencies (applications only through a local organisation or agency, see our website), and for organisations coping with different demands on their services and new ways of working (contact sheila@hwct.co.uk for an informal chat first).

Government Support to Small Businesses

The Government support grants to businesses have been tied to those with premises and there are complicated rules making it hard for charities who may well be eligible to access the funds.  We have some detailed guidance.

London Community Response

The second wave of London Community Response funding currently paused for Delivering Differently   Wave 3 will open in June.  Wave 4 will focus on recovery later in the year.
1. Crisis response – grants up to £10,000 to meet the immediate needs
2. Delivering differently – grants of £10,000 to £50,000 to change how you work

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

Youth Futures Foundation

The Foundation is committed to transforming employment for young people.
Funding is for a 6-12 month period of planning and set up from September 2020 onwards, during which time no direct delivery to young people will be required. This will be followed by funding for a delivery phase from January 2021 onwards, by which time we hope face to face work will be possible again.

Digital & Tech Support Online Q&A

Tuesdays 2 – 3.30pm
Many organisations are having to grapple with moving their office systems online so staff and volunteers can work remotely.We’ll look at:
~ What systems do you need?
~ How do you set them up?
~ What works and what doesn’t?
Q&A session with Gilbert Plant, our digital partner from CITA and WCIT.
Joining details here: https://vac.org.uk/events/
Email alexcharles@vac.org.uk

These sessions will be hosted on zoom.  Ideally you will need a PC, laptop, tablet or smartphone with camera or microphone but you can also join by telephone as well. Click on the link or use the meeting ID.  You will also need the password if one was set. Short guide to joining a zoom meeting.

Safeguarding Courses:

VAC is working with funders so that safeguarding courses can continue online.  Further details to come. There are some basic safeguarding videos on the home page and on the COVID19 Update page.
Tel: 020 7 284 6575 | Email: dogunyemi@vac.org.uk email (Mon – Wed)

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

Camden Events

All face-to-face events are cancelled for now. Many groups and organisations have moved their activity online.  Check the Covid-19 Directory or go to the organisation’s webpage, or facebood, twitter or instagram page. For exampe WEP have a newsletter with online and virtual activities.

Camden Disability Action Leadership Programme

Are you a Disabled person in Camden who wants to do something to benefit other Disabled people? Maybe you always wanted to: Start a campaign? Design a new online service? Start a new peer support group? Or have other ideas about what Disabled people need right now. Find out more here.

An introduction to Design Sprint- Online workshop

with Outlandish  on May 29th.
If you’re thinking of running a sprint at your organisation, if you want to get ideas off the ground fast, or if you’re just yearning for everyone “to be a bit more Agile”, we can help. Get an insight into the key steps of the Design Sprint and why they are useful & understand how to adapt the formal Design Sprint process to get it to work for you.  book tickets here

Pan London Faiths Network Meeting

Tuesday, 26 May from 5.30pm
The agenda includes the following topics: an update on strategic priorities, the social and economic impact on the BAME community & poorest households, young people, lockdown release – how will faith & community groups respond, crime issues including hate crime, community tensions and domestic violence.  To join  email the convener  with your name and organisation .

Get Involved: Online talks for Kentish Town

A new series of talks, each episode will focus on a community organisation with the aim of raising awareness of their activities, and telling their story in a way that connects with the audience. It is an opportunity to reach locals who would benefit from their
services and also those in a position to support the organisation in some way. For further information email hello@get-involved.org.uk

Free training courses

Training Link has free online courses that people can do at home.  Improve your skills during the lockdown! The courses include Level 2
Food Safety & Hygiene, Customer Care, courses for care work and others. They can be done on a PC or laptop with internet access. For
more information, email Peter Lush on director@traininglink.org.uk

Ageing Better in Camden

ABC are collecting a wealth of resources to keep us entertained, happy, healthy and creative during this time. If you’d like to suggest a resource to add. Please email ageingbetterincamden@ageukcamden.org.uk with your ideas.

Free Online Social Activities Directory

The RecommendMe directory is where people  can search for social activities, events and other things to do.  Includes: Carers art groups on Zoom, Carers online cuppa, Over 60s Peer to peer befriending,  Virtual creative writing for the over 60s, Gardening workshops on Zoom, Boost your emotional strength, Make and mend (chat and stitch) groups.

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.You can use the Brokerage service to request volunteers with specific skills or background for community activity.
Get support and resources from Volunteer Centre Camden
The council has a  page of resources to help community organisations

Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust is Recruiting

The Trust is seeking two new Non-Executive directors and will also be seeking Associate NEDs soon.
Further information and how to apply:
https://jobs.theguardian.com/job/7065257/non-executive-directors/
https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/cap/view/1857606711/?pathWildcard=1857606711&trk=job_capjs

HEAR is Recruiting

HEAR Equality Network:  Interim Managing Director
Invitation for Expressions of Interest for post to start 1st July
(Application by Cover letter/CV: Deadline 26th May)
The HEAR Network of London’s Equality and Human Rights VCS is a small organisation starting an important new phase in its development.  As an important part of this we are appointing an Interim Managing Director, part time, fixed term.
2 days a week, 9 months initially with temporary extension subject to funding, £35,000 pro rata
Full details on the HEAR website.

Befriender Volunteers Needed

The Sante Refugee Project is looking for volunteer befrienders for our asylum seekers and refugees.
For informal chat ring Ruth 020 7482 2903 or email santeproject44@gmail.com  Further information: www.santeproject.org.uk

Volunteer Graphic Designer Needed

Could you help us develop a new visual identity for our small charity? We’re looking for a creative and engaged volunteer to reimagine the charity’s visual identity and introduce a more modern and cohesive design across the platforms we use.  Find out more at http://www.headwaynorthlondon.org/volunteer.html

Henna Asian Women’s Group is seeking a Finance trustee

to join the Governance of our charity. Working alongside our effective Trustee Board and staff team this Trustee will take responsibility for finance and work closely with Henna’s Treasurer, to oversee and explain budgets, accounts and annual financial statements to the board of trustees. The Finance trustee will lead the board’s duty to ensure that proper accounting records are kept, financial resources are properly controlled, invested and economically spent, in line with good governance, legal and regulatory requirements.
For further information please contact Rafat on rafat_hennaorg@yahoo.co.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.

Camden Social Prescribing and Care Navigation update

Social Prescribing and Care Navigation delivered by Age UK Camden, Voluntary Action Camden and Wish+ is operational, and adapted, as a point of access to services and support during the COVID 19 emergency.
We are aiming to connect residents with emerging support in their local areas where there is appropriate provision.
If local community organisations are contacted by residents with more complex needs than they can support please refer to Community Links and we will work with the Care Navigation and Wish+ teams to find the support needed. Referral form can be found here. Minimum requirements are contact details and permission to contact the person needing support.
All the usual routes in to the service apply via Community Links at VAC:
Freephone: 0800 193 6067 (please leave a message if no answer. Staff are using other phones to call back and keep this one free)
Secure NHS email (referrals only): camccg.socialprescribingreferral@nhs.net
Community Links email (enquiries and referrals): communitylinks@vac.org.uk

Healthwatch Camden’s Covid-19 Survey

How are people accessing information needed to stay well, how health and care services have changed since the Covid-19 outbreak, and how covid-19 is affecting other aspects of health and wellbeing?
https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/healthwatchcamdencovid-19  or call 020 7383 2402 to complete the survey over the phone if you are not online. Particularly interested to hear from: people for whom English isn’t first language, those with a communication support need, people who are BAME (esp. Black African and older Bangladeshi men), men, under 24s, and 55+.

NCL Suicide Prevention Helpline

The COVID-19 outbreak means that life is changing for us all for a while. If you are feeling lonely, hopeless, like there is no way out or frustrated that the current situation is never going to end, you may want to talk to someone.
You can get in touch with the new Rethink helpline for people experiencing suicidal feelings or thoughts or affected in any way by suicide. Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 6pm-8pm and on Sunday from 6pm-9pm.
Tel: 08088 02 00 80 (Calls to this helpline are free from landlines and mobile phones within the UK and do not appear on itemised bills.)
by text message on 07860 058 793 (Text messages are charged at usual network rate and texts will be responded to during helpline opening hours)
webchat, which can be accessed during service opening hours by visiting www.rethink.org/ncl-suicide
Facebook page by searching @NCLSuicidePreventionandBereavementService
Queries about the service or require any further information contact  suicidepreventionandbereavement@rethink.org  or  Jane Brett Jones Jane.Brett-Jones@islington.gov.uk/Tanvi Barreto Tanvi.barreto@islington.gov.uk from the Public Health team

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.

Camden Voluntary Action Online Forum

The next Voluntary Action Forum is on Wednesday 20th May at 11am and will focus on the issue of how we re-shape services and the challenge of bringing online and offline together.  We will look at examples of what Camden organisations have done – including ballet (see below). Joining details here:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86893228302?pwd=Wnl5dldJdGVjWXhqMFNqZ3U1MU01QT09
Meeting ID: 868 9322 8302
Password: 1948

Ballet for Everyone!

Even in these difficult times, we can still work on our fitness, posture and skills. Rushin ballet is a North London ballet school and we have taken our classes online using Zoom.
Introduction to Ballet for over 50s: Saturday 10-11am  (voluntary donations)
Beginners: Tuesday 6pm and Thursday 12pm
Intermediates: Friday 6pm and Sunday 11am
Beginner and intermediate classes are all 2 hours long and cost per class is £5
Dancing improves strength as well as increasing balance and flexibility . It improves posture and improves memory.   rushinballet@hotmail.co.uk

Camden Disability Action Leadership Programme

Are you a Disabled person in Camden who wants to do something to benefit other Disabled people? Maybe you always wanted to: Start a campaign? Design a new online service? Start a new peer support group? Or have other ideas about what Disabled people need right now. Find out more here.

Financial Impact of the Covid-19 Emergency Survey

It’s really important that when we make the case for the sector that we have a good picture of the financial impact the Covid-19 emergency has had on organisations.  Please take our Financial Impact Survey.

Pan London Faiths Network Meeting

Tuesday, 26 May from 5.30pm
The London Boroughs Faiths Network, which aims to connect local practitioners & public agencies across the capital, has hosted five online pan-London faith & community sector COVID-19 briefing meetings.
The agenda includes the following topics: an update on strategic priorities, the social and economic impact on the BAME community & poorest households, young people, lockdown release – how will faith & community groups respond, crime issues including hate crime, community tensions and domestic violence.  To join  email the convener  with your name and organisation .

Keep in Touch:

Pop Up Think and Do
West Euston Partnership (WEP)
Healthwatch Camden
All Ways Network

NCL Suicide Prevention Helpline

The COVID-19 outbreak means that life is changing for us all for a while. If you are feeling lonely, hopeless, like there is no way out or frustrated that the current situation is never going to end, you may want to talk to someone.
You can get in touch with the new Rethink helpline for people experiencing suicidal feelings or thoughts or affected in any way by suicide. Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 6pm-8pm and on Sunday from 6pm-9pm.
Tel: 08088 02 00 80 (Calls to this helpline are free from landlines and mobile phones within the UK and do not appear on itemised bills.)
by text message on 07860 058 793 (Text messages are charged at usual network rate and texts will be responded to during helpline opening hours)
webchat, which can be accessed during service opening hours by visiting www.rethink.org/ncl-suicide
Facebook page by searching @NCLSuicidePreventionandBereavementService
Queries about the service or require any further information contact  suicidepreventionandbereavement@rethink.org  or  Jane Brett Jones Jane.Brett-Jones@islington.gov.uk/Tanvi Barreto Tanvi.barreto@islington.gov.uk from the Public Health team.

Covid-19 Resources

VAC has gathered relevant resources on a range of topics.
Notable recent additions include:

• Youth Endowment Fund £6.5m COVID-19 grant round now open
• On tap, not on top
• Model Domestic Violence Policy
• Clarifying FAQ on the minor changes to lockdown rules

VAC COVID-19 Pages

Covid-19 Community Directory  (Update your entry here)
Covid-19 Update page.
Covid-19 Resources page

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.

YCF Partners with Google to Launch the Digital Youth Work Fund

Young Camden Foundation (YCF) has launched the Digital Youth Work Fund sponsored by Google. This fund is designed to support Camden’s children and young people sector by creating or enhancing a digital youth work offer.
YCF will award members grants of up to £5,000
Applications will be considered on a rolling basis with the following deadlines: 29 May, 19 June and 3 July 2020.  Details at YCF website. Questions to grants@youngcamdenfoundation.org.uk.

Food Charities Grant Fund

Apply for a grant of up to £100,000 for your charity helping people affected by coronavirus (COVID-19).
If you run a front-line food aid charity in England, you can apply for a grant of up to £100,000 to help you continue to provide food to the vulnerable.
Applications to Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra)

Volunteers’ Week Funding

Small grants of £500 – £1,000 to provide organisations additional financial support to help cover volunteer expenses and extra volunteer related costs.
The application form is here: https://form.jotform.com/201264947699369
Application deadline     Friday 22nd May 2020
Grants awarded     WC 1st June 2020

Government funding package

The government revealed their funding package for charities, of which £370 million will be available for small charities delivering essential frontline COVID-19 related services for vulnerable people through the Community fund. Details of the fund are now on the National Lottery Community Fund website. Small funding (up to £10,000) is still being distributed by Awards for All.  Further local distribution is planned – details to follow.

Somers Town Big Local Covid-19 Emergency Fund

Grants up to £1500 aimed at responding to the Covid-19 emergency in Somers Town.  Telephone 020 8364 8400 to book a telephone appointment. Deadline Monday 25th May.  engagement@stbl.org.uk

Hampstead Wells & Campden Trust

is a small funder that can assist organisations in NW3, NW6 and Camden parts of NW2. During the COVID-19 crisis we are working to provide support for individuals and families in need through small grants for emergencies (applications only through a local organisation or agency, see our website), and for organisations coping with different demands on their services and new ways of working (contact sheila@hwct.co.uk for an informal chat first).

Government Support to Small Businesses

The Government support grants to businesses have been tied to those with premises and there are complicated rules making it hard for charities who may well be eligible to access the funds.  We have some detailed guidance.

London Community Response

The second wave of London Community Response funding is open.
1. Crisis response – grants up to £10,000 to meet the immediate needs
2. Delivering differently – grants of £10,000 to £50,000 to change how you work

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

Youth Futures Foundation

The Foundation is committed to transforming employment for young people.
Funding is for a 6-12 month period of planning and set up from September 2020 onwards, during which time no direct delivery to young people will be required. This will be followed by funding for a delivery phase from January 2021 onwards, by which time we hope face to face work will be possible again.

Digital & Tech Support Online Q&A

Tuesdays 2 – 3.30pm
Many organisations are having to grapple with moving their office systems online so staff and volunteers can work remotely.We’ll look at:
~ What systems do you need?
~ How do you set them up?
~ What works and what doesn’t?
Q&A session with Gilbert Plant, our digital partner from CITA and WCIT.
Joining details here: https://vac.org.uk/events/
Email alexcharles@vac.org.uk

These sessions will be hosted on zoom.  Ideally you will need a PC, laptop, tablet or smartphone with camera or microphone but you can also join by telephone as well. Click on the link or use the meeting ID.  You will also need the password if one was set. Short guide to joining a zoom meeting.

Safeguarding Courses:

VAC is working with funders so that safeguarding courses can continue online.  Further details to come. There are some basic safeguarding videos on the home page and on the COVID19 Update page.
Tel: 020 7 284 6575 | Email: dogunyemi@vac.org.uk email (Mon – Wed)

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

Camden Events

All face-to-face events are cancelled for now. Many groups and organisations have moved their activity online.  Check the Covid-19 Directory or go to the organisation’s webpage, or facebood, twitter or instagram page. For exampe WEP have a newsletter with online and virtual activities.

Young Camden Foundation Webinar on Mental Health Needs of young people

Wednesday 20 May 10.00am-11.30am
As part of Mental Health Week we will be looking at trends in what we are seeing around the mental health needs of young people during the Covid 19 lockdown. Professionals will share examples of what’s working well, how they are engaging with young people in need of support and sharing practical ideas and coping mechanisms which can be used by anyone working with young people. To sign up click here.

Get Involved: Online talks for Kentish Town

A new series of talks, each episode will focus on a community organisation with the aim of raising awareness of their activities, and telling their story in a way that connects with the audience. It is an opportunity to reach locals who would benefit from their
services and also those in a position to support the organisation in some way. For further information email hello@get-involved.org.uk

Free training courses

Training Link has free online courses that people can do at home.  Improve your skills during the lockdown! The courses include Level 2
Food Safety & Hygiene, Customer Care, courses for care work and others. They can be done on a PC or laptop with internet access. For
more information, email Peter Lush on director@traininglink.org.uk

Ageing Better in Camden

ABC are collecting a wealth of resources to keep us entertained, happy, healthy and creative during this time. If you’d like to suggest a resource to add. Please email ageingbetterincamden@ageukcamden.org.uk with your ideas.

Virtual Gallery Project for 13-18 year olds

What: Collaborate with other young people and older community members to produce digital artwork documenting your lockdown experience and then curate your own online exhibition.
Weekly on Wednesdays 4-6pm, starting 29th April, (via online Zoom sessions)
More info and sign up with chloe.plumb@holborncommunity.co.uk

Free Online Social Activities Directory

The RecommendMe directory is where people  can search for social activities, events and other things to do.  Includes: Carers art groups on Zoom, Carers online cuppa, Over 60s Peer to peer befriending,  Virtual creative writing for the over 60s, Gardening workshops on Zoom, Boost your emotional strength, Make and mend (chat and stitch) groups.

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.You can use the Brokerage service to request volunteers with specific skills or background for community activity.
Get support and resources from Volunteer Centre Camden
The council has a  page of resources to help community organisations

Befriender Volunteers Needed

The Sante Refugee Project is looking for volunteer befrienders for our asylum seekers and refugees.
For informal chat ring Ruth 020 7482 2903 or email santeproject44@gmail.com  Further information: www.santeproject.org.uk

Volunteer Graphic Designer Needed

Could you help us develop a new visual identity for our small charity? We’re looking for a creative and engaged volunteer to reimagine the charity’s visual identity and introduce a more modern and cohesive design across the platforms we use.  Find out more at http://www.headwaynorthlondon.org/volunteer.html

Henna Asian Women’s Group is seeking a Finance trustee

to join the Governance of our charity. Working alongside our effective Trustee Board and staff team this Trustee will take responsibility for finance and work closely with Henna’s Treasurer, to oversee and explain budgets, accounts and annual financial statements to the board of trustees. The Finance trustee will lead the board’s duty to ensure that proper accounting records are kept, financial resources are properly controlled, invested and economically spent, in line with good governance, legal and regulatory requirements.
For further information please contact Rafat on rafat_hennaorg@yahoo.co.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.

Camden Social Prescribing and Care Navigation update

Social Prescribing and Care Navigation delivered by Age UK Camden, Voluntary Action Camden and Wish+ is operational, and adapted, as a point of access to services and support during the COVID 19 emergency.
We are aiming to connect residents with emerging support in their local areas where there is appropriate provision.
If local community organisations are contacted by residents with more complex needs than they can support please refer to Community Links and we will work with the Care Navigation and Wish+ teams to find the support needed. Referral form can be found here. Minimum requirements are contact details and permission to contact the person needing support.
All the usual routes in to the service apply via Community Links at VAC:
Freephone: 0800 193 6067 (please leave a message if no answer. Staff are using other phones to call back and keep this one free)
Secure NHS email (referrals only): camccg.socialprescribingreferral@nhs.net
Community Links email (enquiries and referrals): communitylinks@vac.org.uk

Healthwatch Camden’s Covid-19 Survey

How are people accessing information needed to stay well, how health and care services have changed since the Covid-19 outbreak, and how covid-19 is affecting other aspects of health and wellbeing?
https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/healthwatchcamdencovid-19  or call 020 7383 2402 to complete the survey over the phone if you are not online. Particularly interested to hear from: people for whom English isn’t first language, those with a communication support need, people who are BAME (esp. Black African and older Bangladeshi men), men, under 24s, and 55+.

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.

Government funding package latest

The latest update on the government funding package for charities is that funding for small charities delivering essential front-line covid-19 support will, where possible, be delivered locally – more details as soon as we have them.  This is in addition to funds being distributed though Awards for All and an adapted Reaching Communities fund – details here National Lottery Community Fund (6 months – £10,000 to £100,000). Other funders are still creating new funding opportunities (see links under Funding), such as the Big Local £50,000 fund being distributed in Somers Town by the ST Big Local.

Our Letter Urging Support for the Sector

VAC has written a letter to the CNJ urging both central and local government to ensure that there is sufficient support for the many voluntary and community organisations that have responded to the Covid-19 emergency.  Read it here.

Camden Voluntary Action Online Forum

Thanks to all who came to the forum yesterday and shared updates and news.  There was a clear agreement that the next one (on Wednesday 20th May at 11am) should look at how we re-shape services and the challenge of bringing online and offline together in the future.  Details to follow.

Keep in Touch:

Pop Up Think and Do
The South Hampstead and Kilburn Community Partnership (SHAK)
Talk for Health
ACAS

Healthwatch Camden’s Covid-19 Survey

How are people accessing information needed to stay well, how health and care services have changed since the Covid-19 outbreak, and how covid-19 is affecting other aspects of health and wellbeing?
https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/healthwatchcamdencovid-19  or call 020 7383 2402 to complete the survey over the phone if you are not online. Particularly interested to hear from: people for whom English isn’t first language, those with a communication support need, people who are BAME (esp. Black African and older Bangladeshi men), men, under 24s, and 55+.
New info on the website:
1) who is eligible for a Covid-19 test and how to get one?
2) Blog encouraging people to use NHS services following concerning drop in attendances.

Covid-19 Resources

VAC has gathered relevant resources on a range of topics.
Notable recent additions include:

• Youth Endowment Fund £6.5m COVID-19 grant round now open
• Refugee Council updates on Changes to Asylum & Resettlement policy
• VAC briefing on safeguarding essentials during COVID-19
• Useful resources from Women’s Aid
• What Does My Faith Group Currently Advise?

VAC COVID-19 Pages

Covid-19 Community Directory  (Update your entry here)
Covid-19 Update page.
Covid-19 Resources page

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.

The Best Articles this Week

Lack of help for charities will do ‘untold damage’, MPs warn
Committee of MPs calls on Government to provide more support for charities
The Covid-19 crisis and charities – Parliamentary Report

Government funding package

The government revealed their funding package for charities, of which £370 million will be available for small charities delivering essential frontline COVID-19 related services for vulnerable people through the Community fund. Details of the fund are now on the National Lottery Community Fund website. Small funding (up to £10,000) is still being distributed by Awards for All.  Further local distribution is planned – details to follow.

Somers Town Big Local Covid-19 Emergency Fund

Grants up to £1500 aimed at responding to the Covid-19 emergency in Somers Town.  Telephone 020 8364 8400 to book a telephone appointment. Deadline Monday 25th May.  engagement@stbl.org.uk

Hampstead Wells & Campden Trust

is a small funder that can assist organisations in NW3, NW6 and Camden parts of NW2. During the COVID-19 crisis we are working to provide support for individuals and families in need through small grants for emergencies (applications only through a local organisation or agency, see our website), and for organisations coping with different demands on their services and new ways of working (contact sheila@hwct.co.uk for an informal chat first).

All Ways Network

Useful funding resources and AWN are offering Muslim charities free bid writing support.  Details here.

How to fund Mutual Aid groups

Tuesday 5 May, 11am-12pm
an online session for any groups that are interested in learning more about how they can fund their COVID-19 community projects. Book at Eventbrite

London Community Response

The second wave of London Community Response funding is open.
1. Crisis response – grants up to £10,000 to meet the immediate needs
2. Delivering differently – grants of £10,000 to £50,000 to change how you work

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

Youth Futures Foundation

The Foundation is committed to transforming employment for young people.
Funding is for a 6-12 month period of planning and set up from September 2020 onwards, during which time no direct delivery to young people will be required. This will be followed by funding for a delivery phase from January 2021 onwards, by which time we hope face to face work will be possible again.

Digital & Tech Support Online Q&A

Tuesday, 21st April, 2 – 3.30pm
Many organisations are having to grapple with moving their office systems online so staff and volunteers can work remotely.We’ll look at:
~ What systems do you need?
~ How do you set them up?
~ What works and what doesn’t?
Q&A session with Gilbert Plant, our digital partner from CITA and WCIT.
Joining details here: https://vac.org.uk/events/
Email alexcharles@vac.org.uk

These sessions will be hosted on zoom.  Ideally you will need a PC, laptop, tablet or smartphone with camera or microphone but you can also join by telephone as well. Click on the link or use the meeting ID.  You will also need the 4 digit password. Short guide to joining a zoom meeting.

Safeguarding Courses:

VAC is working with funders so that safeguarding courses can continue online.  Further details to come. There are some basic safeguarding videos on the home page and on the COVID19 Update page.
Tel: 020 7 284 6575 | Email: dogunyemi@vac.org.uk email (Mon – Wed)

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

Camden Events

All face-to-face events are cancelled for now. Many groups and organisations have moved their activity online.  Check the Covid-19 Directory or go to the organisation’s webpage, or facebood, twitter or instagram page. For exampe WEP have a newsletter with online and virtual activities.

Get Involved: Online talks for Kentish Town

A new series of talks, each episode will focus on a community organisation with the aim of raising awareness of their activities, and telling their story in a way that connects with the audience. It is an opportunity to reach locals who would benefit from their
services and also those in a position to support the organisation in some way. For further information email hello@get-involved.org.uk

Free training courses

Training Link has free online courses that people can do at home.  Improve your skills during the lockdown! The courses include Level 2
Food Safety & Hygiene, Customer Care, courses for care work and others. They can be done on a PC or laptop with internet access. For
more information, email Peter Lush on director@traininglink.org.uk

Ageing Better in Camden

ABC are collecting a wealth of resources to keep us entertained, happy, healthy and creative during this time. If you’d like to suggest a resource to add. Please email ageingbetterincamden@ageukcamden.org.uk with your ideas.

Local history Live film screening

An online event on the evening of Tuesday 12th May. It is a screening of a film about Somers Town followed by questions and answers with the film-maker, Diana Foster. Full details of the event and how to book your place can be found here: https://www.camden.gov.uk/local-history-exhibitions-and-events#eenn

Virtual Gallery Project for 13-18 year olds

What: Collaborate with other young people and older community members to produce digital artwork documenting your lockdown experience and then curate your own online exhibition.
Weekly on Wednesdays 4-6pm, starting 29th April, (via online Zoom sessions)
More info and sign up with chloe.plumb@holborncommunity.co.uk

Free Online Social Activities Directory

The RecommendMe directory is where people  can search for social activities, events and other things to do.  Includes: Carers art groups on Zoom, Carers online cuppa, Over 60s Peer to peer befriending,  Virtual creative writing for the over 60s, Gardening workshops on Zoom, Boost your emotional strength, Make and mend (chat and stitch) groups.

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 much it much easier to access the volunteers.
Get support and resources from Volunteer Centre Camden
The council has a  page of resources to help community organisations

Henna Asian Women’s Group is seeking a Finance trustee

to join the Governance of our charity. Working alongside our effective Trustee Board and staff team this Trustee will take responsibility for finance and work closely with Henna’s Treasurer, to oversee and explain budgets, accounts and annual financial statements to the board of trustees. The Finance trustee will lead the board’s duty to ensure that proper accounting records are kept, financial resources are properly controlled, invested and economically spent, in line with good governance, legal and regulatory requirements. Alongside the development and implementation of financial reserves, cost management and investment policies.
They will be equipped to monitor and advise on the financial viability of the charity and oversee the implementation of monitoring specific financial controls and adherence to systems.
The trustee will also advise on the financial implications of the charity’s strategic plan, alongside overseeing the charity’s financial risk management process.
For further information please contact Rafat on rafat_hennaorg@yahoo.co.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.

Camden Social Prescribing and Care Navigation update

Social Prescribing and Care Navigation delivered by Age UK Camden, Voluntary Action Camden and Wish+ is operational, and adapted, as a point of access to services and support during the COVID 19 emergency.
We are aiming to connect residents with emerging support in their local areas where there is appropriate provision.
If local community organisations are contacted by residents with more complex needs than they can support please refer to Community Links and we will work with the Care Navigation and Wish+ teams to find the support needed. Referral form can be found here. Minimum requirements are contact details and permission to contact the person needing support.
All the usual routes in to the service apply via Community Links at VAC:
Freephone: 0800 193 6067 (please leave a message if no answer. Staff are using other phones to call back and keep this one free)
Secure NHS email (referrals only): camccg.socialprescribingreferral@nhs.net
Community Links email (enquiries and referrals): communitylinks@vac.org.uk

SHP Camden Recovery Service & Islington Aftercare

We are here to support Camden and Islington residents who are in recovery from substance use issues. We help individuals to explore their education, training, volunteering and employment goals and work with them to develop a personal plan to help achieve them.
Whilst our Camden Square offices are currently closed, we are still available to offer tailored 1:1 support via telephone and online. In addition our clients will have access to our online group programmes which include a weekly women’s group, recovery group and personal development workshops.
Within the service we have a team of Peer Mentors, who use their lived experience of overcoming substance use issues to support our clients along their recovery journeys. We are always keen to hear from individuals who have been abstinent from problematic substance use for over 6 months and are interested in becoming a Peer Mentor Volunteers themselves.
For more information about any of the above please contact 020 7520 8682, camdenrecoveryservice@shp.org.uk or islingtonaftercare@shp.org.uk.

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.

Government funding package

We now have the details of the government funding package for charities, of which £370 million will be available for small charities delivering essential front-line covid-19 support.  More details are on the National Lottery Community Fund website. They aim to fund projects that are specifically aimed at the covid-19 relief effort over the next 6 months in the £10,000 to £100,000 range.

Next Camden Voluntary Action Online Forum

Wednesday, 6th May, 11am
Please come along to the second forum where we will be meeting on zoom and hearing from you on how you have been adapting and also what local connections have you made?  The Community Links team will give an update on referral demands. There will also be an opportunity to link up with others
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89701352299?pwd=QWYzbWNOQkw3K1UybFJBd09zQU16UT09
Meeting ID: 897 0135 2299
Password: 1907
Not online? Join by phone: 020 3481 5240

May Day Greetings

Ironically in the year when workers’ contribution to society has never been more obvious there will be no May Day this year.  The May Day bank holiday has been switched from Monday 4th to Friday 8th May.  The switch was made by Royal Proclamation after many diaries had gone to press so printed diaries may be wrong.  The switch was intended to commemorate VE Day with street parties, pub toasts and bell ringing, but due to social distancing these have been cancelled (the only other time May Day was switched was also to commemorate VE Day in 1995).   Torriano Meeting house is still celebrating May Day with poems from Camden poet, Dinah Livingston – Commons and Rety.

Keep in Touch:

NCL CCG Newsletter
North London Cares
West Euston Partnership
Ageing Better in Camden
Camden Pop Up Think and Do
Young Camden Foundation

Healthwatch Camden’s Covid-19 Survey

How are people accessing information needed to stay well, how health and care services have changed since the Covid-19 outbreak, and how covid-19 is affecting other aspects of health and wellbeing?
https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/healthwatchcamdencovid-19  or call 020 7383 2402 to complete the survey over the phone if you are not online.

Covid-19 Resources

VAC has gathered relevant resources on a range of topics.
Notable recent additions include:

• VAC briefing on safeguarding essentials during COVID-19
• Banks Launch Helplines for Over 70s
• What Does My Faith Group Currently Advise?
• Public Health advice for Ramadan
• Our Front Line is a new hub of resources for front line workers
• Guidance for households with grandparents, parents & children together

VAC COVID-19 Pages

Covid-19 Community Directory  (Update your entry here)
Covid-19 Update page.
Covid-19 Resources page

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.

The Best Articles this Week

Plan C: From Mutual Aid to Dual Power: how do we build a new world?
Digital divide ‘isolates and endangers’ millions of UK’s poorest
Bank of England provides £7.5 billion in big business bailouts
Reweaving the social fabric after the crisis
The war on coronavirus should be led by councils.
Solidarity at the time of COVID-19: An(other) digital revolution?
Charity Tax Group calls for reform to small grants system (about £4 billion of the £12 billion allocated has not been spent and could go to charities)

Government funding package

The government revealed their funding package for charities, of which £370 million will be available for small charities delivering essential frontline COVID-19 related services for vulnerable people through the Community fund. Details of the fund are now on the National Lottery Community Fund website.

Hampstead Wells & Campden Trust

is a small funder that can assist organisations in NW3, NW6 and Camden parts of NW2. During the COVID-19 crisis we are working to provide support for individuals and families in need through small grants for emergencies (applications only through a local organisation or agency, see our website), and for organisations coping with different demands on their services and new ways of working (contact sheila@hwct.co.uk for an informal chat first).

All Ways Network

Useful funding resources and AWN are offering Muslim charities free bid writing support.  Details here.

How to fund Mutual Aid groups

Tuesday 5 May, 11am-12pm
an online session for any groups that are interested in learning more about how they can fund their COVID-19 community projects. Book at Eventbrite

London Community Response

The second wave of London Community Response funding is open.
1. Crisis response – grants up to £10,000 to meet the immediate needs
2. Delivering differently – grants of £10,000 to £50,000 to change how you work

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

Youth Futures Foundation

The Foundation is committed to transforming employment for young people.
Funding is for a 6-12 month period of planning and set up from September 2020 onwards, during which time no direct delivery to young people will be required. This will be followed by funding for a delivery phase from January 2021 onwards, by which time we hope face to face work will be possible again.

Next Camden Voluntary Action Online Forum

Wednesday, 6th May, 11am
Please come along to the second forum where we will be meeting on zoom and hearing from you on how you have been adapting and also what local connections have you made?  The Community Links team will give an update on referral demands. There will also be an opportunity to link up with others
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89701352299?pwd=QWYzbWNOQkw3K1UybFJBd09zQU16UT09
Meeting ID: 897 0135 2299
Password: email knunan@vac.org.uk for password
Not online? Join by phone: 020 3481 5240

Digital & Tech Support Online Q&A

Tuesday, 21st April, 2 – 3.30pm
Many organisations are having to grapple with moving their office systems online so staff and volunteers can work remotely.We’ll look at:
~ What systems do you need?
~ How do you set them up?
~ What works and what doesn’t?
Q&A session with Gilbert Plant, our digital partner from CITA and WCIT.
Joining details here: https://vac.org.uk/events/
Email alexcharles@vac.org.uk

These sessions will be hosted on zoom.  Ideally you will need a PC, laptop, tablet or smartphone with camera or microphone but you can also join by telephone as well. Click on the link or use the meeting ID.  You will also need the 4 digit password. Short guide to joining a zoom meeting.

Safeguarding Courses:

VAC is working with funders so that safeguarding courses can continue online.  Further details to come. There are some basic safeguarding videos on the home page and on the COVID19 Update page.
Tel: 020 7 284 6575 | Email: dogunyemi@vac.org.uk email (Mon – Wed)

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

Camden Events

All face-to-face events are cancelled for now. Many groups and organisations have moved their activity online.  Check the Covid-19 Directory or go to the organisation’s webpage, or facebood, twitter or instagram page. For exampe WEP have a newsletter with online and virtual activities.

Local history Live film screening

An online event on the evening of Tuesday 12th May. It is a screening of a film about Somers Town followed by questions and answers with the film-maker, Diana Foster. Full details of the event and how to book your place can be found here: https://www.camden.gov.uk/local-history-exhibitions-and-events#eenn

Virtual Gallery Project for 13-18 year olds

What: Collaborate with other young people and older community members to produce digital artwork documenting your lockdown experience and then curate your own online exhibition.
Weekly on Wednesdays 4-6pm, starting 29th April, (via online Zoom sessions)
More info and sign up with chloe.plumb@holborncommunity.co.uk

Free Online Social Activities Directory

The RecommendMe directory is where people with support needs can search for social activities, events and other things to do.  Includes: Carers art groups on Zoom, Carers online cuppa, Over 60s Peer to peer befriending,  Virtual creative writing for the over 60s, Gardening workshops on Zoom, Boost your emotional strength, Make and mend (chat and stitch) groups. Activities are being added weekly. Events are organised by voluntary organisations and other groups in Camden.

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 can sign up to Time to Spare and request access and you will then be able to recruit volunteers directly.
Get support and resources from Volunteer Centre Camden
The council has a  page of resources to help community organisations

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.

Camden Social Prescribing and Care Navigation update

Social Prescribing and Care Navigation delivered by Age UK Camden, Voluntary Action Camden and Wish+ is operational, and adapted, as a point of access to services and support during the COVID 19 emergency.
We are aiming to connect residents with emerging support in their local areas where there is appropriate provision.
If local community organisations are contacted by residents with more complex needs than they can support please refer to Community Links and we will work with the Care Navigation and Wish+ teams to find the support needed. Referral form can be found here. Minimum requirements are contact details and permission to contact the person needing support.
All the usual routes in to the service apply via Community Links at VAC:
Freephone: 0800 193 6067 (please leave a message if no answer. Staff are using other phones to call back and keep this one free)
Secure NHS email (referrals only): camccg.socialprescribingreferral@nhs.net
Community Links email (enquiries and referrals): communitylinks@vac.org.uk

SHP Camden Recovery Service & Islington Aftercare

We are here to support Camden and Islington residents who are in recovery from substance use issues. We help individuals to explore their education, training, volunteering and employment goals and work with them to develop a personal plan to help achieve them.
Whilst our Camden Square offices are currently closed, we are still available to offer tailored 1:1 support via telephone and online. In addition our clients will have access to our online group programmes which include a weekly women’s group, recovery group and personal development workshops.
Within the service we have a team of Peer Mentors, who use their lived experience of overcoming substance use issues to support our clients along their recovery journeys. We are always keen to hear from individuals who have been abstinent from problematic substance use for over 6 months and are interested in becoming a Peer Mentor Volunteers themselves.
For more information about any of the above please contact 020 7520 8682, camdenrecoveryservice@shp.org.uk or islingtonaftercare@shp.org.uk.

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.