Voluntary Action Camden

Voluntary Action Camden e-Bulletin – 30th January 2015

News From VAC
Voluntary Action Camden e-Bulletin 30th January 2015
Highlights: CPPEG Open Meeting; Camden Community Festivals Fund; HR Advice for Camden Groups from VAC; Working with Complex Needs: Free Training Offer for Camden Based Groups; A new online mental health support service; Tricycle Takeover 2015 ; Get the flu jab ; Islington Mind’s LGBT service – open Information day ; Charity Commission Filing Deadline Tomorrow; Kilburn – your lifetime neighbourhood?; Grassroots 2015 Fundraiser Party for the Edge Fund; How people effect change; Kentish Town Bike Workshop; plus news, funding, events, jobs, volunteering and more.
NEWS
CPPEG open meeting Monday 9th February (14:00 – 16:00)
St Pancras Hospital Conference Hall. The presentations will cover unscheduled care, the future of out of hours & 111 followed by an update on Long Terms Conditions & Cancer Care.
Presentation 1: Unscheduled Care, and The future of Out of Hours & 111
Speaker: Sharon Barrington, Deputy Director, Strategy & Planning, CCG
Presentation 2: Update on Long Term Conditions & Cancer Programme
Speaker: Sally Mackinnon, Commissioning Programme Lead, Long Term Conditions and Cancer, CCG
To attend please RSVP Caroline Straker (email: Caroline.Straker@camdenccg.nhs.uk / Tel: 020 3688 2044)
Camden Community Festivals Fund
Camden Council is supporting this grants programme in recognition of the contribution made by community festivals and events to strengthening Camden communities and in developing a rich culture and economy within the borough.
The fund is to sustain and develop Camden’s rich culture, its strong communities and dynamic partnerships by supporting quality, creative events, projects and activities. This year the fund is managed by Voluntary Action Camden (VAC).
See the ‘Funding’ section below for full details.
HR Advice for Camden Groups from VAC
VAC is offering Camden VCS groups a free service every Thursday to answer HR related queries, by telephone or e-mail. As well as dealing with one-off queries, free of charge, on Thursdays, we can also offer an “Expert Critical Friend” package, which provides 3.5 hours of support at a cost of £150, for you to use as, when and where you need it. This package is suitable if managers or trustees need more substantial help with:
~ Drafting or reviewing HR policies and procedures
~ Support to work through difficult situations, eg. redundancy, disciplinary issues
~ Coaching on dealing with a number of HR issues
~ Training to improve practical HR knowledge throughout your organisation
Contact Caroline Jepson by e-mail at cjepson@vac.org.uk or by telephone: 020 7284 6564
Working with Complex Needs: Free Training Offer for Camden Based Groups
Clean Break is offering FREE training workshops to health, social care and voluntary sector organisations working in Camden in February – March 2015
Designed to help you reflect on and identify successful strategies to support women with complex needs, this training is ideal for frontline staff, managers, volunteers, advice workers, support staff and others who want to improve their practice. This bespoke package uses short play Sounds Like An Insult, performed by graduates of Clean Break’s theatre education programme, as a stimulus for discussion and critical reflection. Commissioned by Clean Break in association with NOMS and the Department of Health, Sounds Like An Insult explores the experiences of women offenders with complex mental health needs, and the challenges of diagnosis and treatment within the criminal justice system. Following the performance, we engage participants through creative techniques to explore the challenges and opportunities of working with women who may have complex mental health needs, addiction and/or experience of the criminal justice system and who often, as a result, struggle to access or remain engaged in services.
We will be running these free two hour training workshops in Camden, throughout February and March 2015. We can work with groups of up to 30 and may be able to offer multiple workshops for organisations which have larger numbers to accommodate.
If you would like to discuss your organisation’s specific needs or ask questions about the workshop, or to book a session, please email Ros Terry ros.terry@cleanbreak.org.uk. More information at www.cleanbreak.org.uk
A new online mental health support service now available for Camden residents
Big White Wall offers a secure environment for Camden residents to address mental health problems.
Big White Wall has two services available to Camden residents, plus a range of tools that allow users to manage themselves more effectively.
1. Support Network – this online, fully moderated peer support community is accessible by anyone over the age of 16 and is available 24/7. This is an anonymous service and allows an individual access for a period of up to six months.
2. Live Therapy – provides online 1-to-1 therapy using audio, webcam and instant messaging via a secure platform for people over the age of 18. To access this service, an individual will need to provide personal details. On average, people will access 10 therapy sessions (50 minutes each), however this will be reviewed should the individual require more. If an individual is deemed unsuitable for Live Therapy, they will be referred to an alternative service. More details here.
Both services work on a self-referral basis which means Big White Wall gives Camden residents the opportunity to take control, allowing them to feel better, sooner.
To access this support, people in Camden simply need to enter their postcode at www.bigwhitewall.com
Tricycle Takeover 2015
A weeklong event in which the Tricycle Young Company takeover The Tricycle Theatre for an entire week. There will be workshops, theatre, film, music and poetry by both emerging and established artists. This year’sTricycle Takeover coincides with the upcoming elections and gives a voice to the political views of young people, many of whom are heading to the ballot box for the first time. The week provides young people with an amazing opportunity to learn, develop, and can act as a brilliant platform to support those at the start of their career. Equally importantly, it is a week of brilliant performance for everyone.
Get the flu jab
If you’re eligible for the flu vaccine, don’t put it off, get it now. Camden Council is urging everyone entitled to a free flu jab to get it as soon as they can. It is vital that those who are eligible have the flu vaccine annually as it protects against different strains of flu which evolve each year.
You can get a free flu jab if you are:
• over 65
• have a long-term health condition – particularly chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease or those with a weakened immune system
• pregnant
• aged two to four (given via a nasal spray vaccination which is quick, effective and painless)
• a carer.
Other than vaccination, the best way to prevent the spread of flu is to have good hand and respiratory hygiene measures. It’s easy to remember – Catch it, Bin it, Kill it – carry tissues and use them to catch coughs or sneezes, then to bin the tissues and to kill the germs by washing our hands.
Book an appointment with your GP pr book an appointment at a local pharmacy
Find out more camden.gov.uk
National News
Social care funding in a ‘ridiculous situation’, says LGA head
The Head of LGA calls for an extra £1.1bn of funding for councils to maintain a ‘civilised level of care’
Advice on Campaigning
Kevin Curley, the former CEO of Navca shares his 10 questions to test and score a charity campaign
Action on Hearing Loss Campaigns
Today saw the launch of the report, Under Pressure, which shows that audiology services across much of the UK are struggling to cope in the face of budget cuts and increased demand.
Action on Hearing loss have made it easy for you to take action to protect your vital hearing loss services,.
Islington Mind’s LGBT service – open Information day – part of LGBT History Month 24th Feb 11 – 3pm
We will open our door to all and introduce the unique pan-London service that we offer every Tuesday to our LGBT community. Join us at 35 Ashley Road, N19 3AG. Programme for the day includes:
Information about Outcome; Yoga; Drama; Art workshops; Animation workshops; Ear acupuncture; Head massage; Taster therapies with MSH – grooming and holistic clinic.
Best Curry in town (FOR £3), raffle and many other surprises…
RSVP: sigal.avni@islington.mind.org
Charity Commission Filing Deadline Tomorrow
Be prepared, 31 January is the deadline for most charities to submit their annual return and accounts to theCharity Commission (10 months after the end of your financial year). This is a vital way to remain accountable to the public. The Guardian has a useful guide.
Kilburn Older Voices Exchange, the British Society of Gerontology, and London Borough of Camden present The first Kilburn Debate of 2015: Kilburn – your lifetime neighbourhood?
What policy changes would encourage us to ‘age in place’?
9.30am- 4.30pm Tuesday, March 3rd, 2015
Morning: Older peoples’ contribution to research
Passing by or by-passing: Intergenerational use of public space; Professor Sheila Peace, Open University
How older people are helping change the street environment; Rita Newton, Senior lecturer, Salford University
1.30-2.30pm: Films by KOVE and other local older film-makers
Afternoon: New developments – London and Kilburn
The London picture and lessons from other cities; Professor Colin Haylock, Newcastle University, Past President of the Royal Town Planning Institute, member Mayor’s Design Advisory Group;
Making changes to Kilburn High Rd: a case study; Jacqueline Saunders, Principal Traffic Planner, Camden
Kingsgate Resource Centre for Older People, 208 Webheath, Palmerston Road NW6 2JU
This free event is open to users of the Centre, local residents of any age, British Society of Gerontology members, service professionals and anyone with an interest in the issues under discussion. Lunch and refreshments will be provided.
For information and to register, contact: John Miles (07817 424356 johnmiles68@yahoo.co.uk) or Mel Wright (07539 390786 mel.wright@kove.org.uk)
Camden Carers’ Service:
Free training, outings and events for unpaid carers in Camden
Mindfulness for carers, Mon 2 Feb, 2 – 3.30pm. An introductory course. To book a place please call Yoni on 020 7428 8950 or email Yoni@camdencarers.org.uk
Leisure Afternoon for people with dementia and their carers, Tue 3 Feb, 2 – 4pm. Older carers can also participate, with or without the person they care for. Enjoy games, discussions and interactive activities like painting, baking and singing along to classic songs led by live saxophone and guitar.
Call 020 7428 8950 or email Zakeera@camdencarers.org.uk
NEW! Creative writing group for older carers of 70+, Wed 4 Feb, 10am – 12pm. Phone 020 7428 8950 or emailzakeera@camdencarers.org.uk to book.
Get behind the Grassroots 2015 Fundraiser Party for the Edge Fund
Saturday, January 31, 2015 from 6:00 PM to 10:30 PM
2014 was a year to be remembered for the Edge Fund’s work, but this year we can do better! Let’s make 2015 the year of grassroots action and people determining their own futures. If you want to have a real impact with your donation, support groups that are free enough, bold enough and optimistic enough to think big. Book your Fundraiser Party place here. More details in the Guardian.
How people effect change: a free and public panel discussion at UCL
Thursday, 26 February 2015 from 18:00 to 19:15
Want to follow your ethics and make a change? People are already doing so in countless ways: through community action, political and legislative systems and the market, to name a few.
These diverse panellists will be speaking about the change they have effected or are hoping to effect and how they’re doing it.
Professor Jane Holder (Chair) University College London
Raising awareness of environmental injustices through academic and personal work
Charles Keidan and Rebecca Steinfeld, Individual campaigners,Launching political and legal challenge to ban on opposite-sex civil partnerships
Jonathan Smith, Fairtrade Foundation, Making it easy for consumers to buy ethically
Pliny Soocoormanee, Peter Tatchell Foundation, Mobilising communities to speak out for civil and human rights
Dr Fiona Vera-Gray, Rape Crisis South London, Harnessing online methods and the voices of the general public to end violence against women and girls
Liam Barrington-Bush, Focus E15 Campaign, Organising direct action and local campaigns to fight for affordable housing in East London
Followed by a public reception at UCL.
This event is free and open to the public, but please order a ticket as we have limited capacity.
Kentish Town Bike Workshop
Monday 2nd February 6.30 to 8.30pm
Location Kentish Town Health Centre, 2 Bartholomew Road NW5 2AJ (map)
Bring your bike and learn how to fix it yourself. Mechanics will be there to check your bike and to give you advice about fixing it. Plus tea and cake while you wait!
See more at Project Dirt
The Capacity Building Bulletin is produced monthly, targeting the community and voluntary sector in Camden. It provides up to date/recently live information and news on funding and training. To access the latest information please follow the Link www.camden.gov.uk/cbbulletin
Ethiopean Community In Britain, Kingsgate Community Centre, Camden CCG, Camden Carers Service, Elfrida Rathbone, Mayu, Camden Federation of Private Tenants, Henna Asian Women’s Group, Kentish Town City Farm, and Camden PA are recruiting. See Jobs and Volunteers section below.
Camden Shares. The website for exchanges in Camden. www.camdenshares.org.uk
You can join in on Facebook. Like us if you like us.
Follow all the Camden Voluntary Sector news on OneCamden on Twitter.
You can read more about all of these stories on our news page at www.vac.org.uk/new
FUNDING NEWS
See the Funding pages on VAC’s website for all the latest information.
Awards for All – One to One Support for Camden Groups
VAC and BIG will be offering further one to one support sessions for Camden groups applying for awards for all in 2015. They will take place on 23rd March. Further details in next week’s e-bulletin.
Camden Community Festivals Fund
Camden Council is supporting this grants programme in recognition of the contribution made by community festivals and events to strengthening Camden communities and in developing a rich culture and economy within the borough.
The fund is to sustain and develop Camden’s rich culture, its strong communities and dynamic partnerships by supporting quality, creative events, projects and activities. This year the fund is managed by Voluntary Action Camden (VAC).
Applications are welcome for grants of £200 to £5000 for:
~ Small-scale events with a capacity of under 500 people, the maximum amount that can be applied for is £500. A copy of the application form can be downloaded here.
~ Larger-scale events with a capacity of 500 people or more the maximum that can be applied for is £5,000. Please note the average is £1,000. A copy of the application form can be downloaded here.
A copy of the detailed guideline can be downloaded here.
The application process is open from Monday 19th January 2015.
The deadline for completed applications is: 6pm on Thursday 16th March 2015
Full details and links to the forms can be found at https://www.vac.org.uk/camden-community-festivals-fund/
If you would like more information and/or to be sent hard copies of the application forms and the guidelines please contact acharles@vac.org.uk. Tel. 020 7284 6553. Fax. 020 7284 6551. VAC, 293-299 Kentish Town Road, London NW5 2TJ.
Please note your grant is only administered by VAC. For all other aspects of your event please contact Camden Council’s events team. events@camden.gov.uk. Tel: 020 7974 5633.
The Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust- Bid for Better
The Bid for Better membership engagement scheme awards grants of up to £400 towards activities or equipment to improve patient experience, promote mental wellbeing or make our services more accessible.
As well as Trust service users, we would like to encourage bids from external organisations whose service users would be benefitted in any of the above ways.
Your idea should benefit two or more patients or service users. If you would like to apply for up to £400 for your project or idea then we will ask you to complete an application form giving us all as much detail as possible.
You can apply online http://www.tavistockandportman.nhs.uk/about-us/join-us/patient-and-public-involvement-ppi/bid-better/apply-bid-better-funding
or you can request a form by post or email by contacting the PPI team.
The closing date for applications is Thursday 5th March 2015.
To be considered for funding you must be a Member of the Trust. If you are not a member already it is really easy to join.
If you have questions about the process or need help to complete your application form, a member of the PPI team will be more than happy to assist you. Please contact us by telephone or email or you can pop into the PPI office on the ground floor of the Tavistock Centre.
Email: PPI@tavi-port.nhs.uk Telephone: 020 8938 2059
The Galaxy Hot Chocolate Fund
The Galaxy hot Chocolate Fund is open for applications again, offering small grants to help small, local community groups and charities across the UK and Ireland.
Now in its fourth year, the Fund will distribute five £300 awards each week, one of which will be for the applicant that attracts the most support on the Fund’s website that week.
The Fund is open for entries until 23 February 2015.
Applications for funds from the Galaxy Hot Chocolate Fund can be made here.
Camden Carers Service Urgent Brief Breaks
Every carer knows when things reach a critical pitch and the pressure valve is about to blow.
That’s when you may need an Urgent Brief Break!
If you provide unpaid care for someone who lives in the London Borough of Camden then you may be eligible
Referrals can be made by a Professional or you can refer yourself
For more information please call Angela 020 7428 8950 or email referrals@camdencarer.org.uk
Don’t forget to sign up to Funding Central for free email funding alerts. Go to www.fundingcentral.org.uk/
VAC EVENTS
VAC has a full programme of courses coming up: Click here to find out more. All courses are ?25 for members (unless otherwise stated).
Mental Health First Aid Training at VAC
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a nationally approved two-day course, designed for anyone without specialist mental health training. The course promotes awareness of mental health issues, and trains non-mental health professionals to recognise those affected by mental health problems and to offer initial help and guidance towards professional support. This can lead to improved outcomes for those affected, their families, friends, colleagues and employers.
Participants will receive a copy of the MHFA manual and certificate on completion of the course.
Do you have any questions or want to book a place?
Contact the Mental Health Team at Voluntary Action Camden:
Maureen Brewster on mbrewster@vac.org.uk or 020 7284 6563
Ann Wolfe on awolfe@vac.org.uk or 020 7284 6565
Sue Dowd on sdowd@vac.org.uk or 020 7284 6559
Next course dates: Monday 16th February and Monday 23rd February 2015
New VAC Training Programme
  • 16th – 23rd February: Mental Health First Aid
  • 17th February: Budgeting for your Project
  • 18th February: Project Management
  • 19th February: Project Management Starter
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  • 6th March: Fundraising and Income Generation Strategy
  • 13th March: Project Management Introduction
  • 31st March: Introduction to Social Enterprise and Business Planning
Dementia Friends Information Sessions
Would you like to improve your understanding of dementia and what it might be like to live with the condition?
People with dementia sometimes need a helping hand to go about their daily lives and feel included in their local community. Dementia Friends is about raising awareness and encouraging people to do the small things that can make a difference to people living with dementia – from helping someone find the right bus to spreading the word about dementia. The initiative, run by the Alzheimer’s Society, aims to create a network of one million Dementia Friends across England by 2015.
Dementia Friends Information Sessions are short, interactive and fun. If you would like VAC to run a session for your organisation or community group, please contact Ann Wolfe on awolfe@vac.org.uk or call 020 7284 6565. For more information see the Dementia Friends website: http://www.dementiafriends.org.uk/
OTHER EVENTS
Camden Chinese Community Centre New Year Celebration Saturday 14th February at 11am to 3pm.
The event will be held at The Camden Centre, Bidborough Street, London, WC1H 9BT. The nearest tube station will be at Kings Cross St Pancras. Please click here for a map.
11:00am to 12:30pm (Chinese Food & Handicrafts Stalls) 12:30pm to 3.00pm (Variety Show)
Admission Ticket : Adult (£5), Child (£2) *A £12 family ticket for 2 adults and 2 children (under 12) will be available
Tickets are available at the Centre in advance and at the door. Tickets are limited, first come first served.
Telephone no: 020 7388 8883 Email: silvia.chui@camdenccc.co.uk
At the event there will be lion dancing, acrobats, magic show, Chinese opera & New Year songs, Chinese traditional & folk dance, Peking noodles making demonstration and raffle draw.
There will be a raffle draw at the event, raffle tickets are sold for £1 each.
First prize for the raffle draw includes one return ticket to Hong Kong (sponsored by See Woo Group)
2nd prize £388 banquet at Phoenix Palace Restaurant
3rd prize banquet at Sushi Bento
4th prize £188 banquet at New Joy King Lau.
Free Skills Conference for Small Charities: 11th February 2015, London
The FSI’s Skill Conference is coming back to London on February 11th 2015, providing 160 places for small charities to access a range of expert speakers on a variety of topics essential to effective working. Delegates will take away relevant and practical skills from a choice of four interactive workshops throughout the day. Topics include HR and Management, Law, IT, Finance, Governance, Policy, Strategy and Planning and Impact Measurement. It fills up fast, so book your free place today to access this fantastic training opportunity.
Visit http://www.thefsi.org/services/conferences/skills-conference/ for more information and bookings.
First Thursday London Thursday, February 5, 2015 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Back at The British Library, this month’s event is all about Social Finance and Investment.
We’ve got a great speaker; Caroline Forster is the Group Director of Investments and Deputy Chief Executive of the Social Investment Business Foundation.
Caroline will be sharing some of her thoughts about social finance, how it can help grow your business and help realise the potential in your business.
As ever, there will also be the usual news updates and the opportunity to meet like minded people.
At The Business & Innovation Centre The British Library Click here to register.
Housing allocation consultation 2015
There will be a special lunchtime briefing for people working in the voluntary sector on Monday 23rd February at 11.30am-1pm at: 5 Pancras Square, London, N1C 4AG
To book a place, please contact Zoe Goldblum or Giovanni Bruggi (see below).
If your organisation has a regular meeting (either with staff or service users) and you would like a member of the housing allocation consultation team to attend to give a presentation on the proposed changes to the scheme and answer any questions, please contact either Zoe Goldblum or Giovanni Bruggi (see below).
For more information, to book a place for a workshop or the special briefing or to arrange another meeting, please contact:
• Zoe Goldblum, Senior Policy Officer, Zoe.Goldblum@camden.gov.uk or call 020 7974 4544.
• Giovanni Bruggi, Business Support Officer, Giovanni.Bruggi@camden.gov.uk or call 020 7974 5519
Camden Learning Disabilities Forum Wednesday 4th February, 6pm – 8pm
At Charlie Ratchford Resource Centre, Belmont Street Chalk Farm, NW1 8HF.
Topics for discussion we will be :
• Learning about computers
• The Care Act
• A Camden Financial Challenge update
If you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact:
Rena Toufexis, Engagement Coordinator, Telephone: 020 7974 3265 Rena.Toufexis@camden.gov.uk
Camden CCG and Cancer Research UK are delivering a cancer awareness workshop for individuals who work or volunteer within the Camden community.
This is particularly relevant for those who work with people at risk of developing cancer, such as the elderly. The workshop empowers volunteers and community members in Camden with the knowledge, skills and confidence to talk about Cancer.
By attending the workshop you will:
~ Increase your knowledge of key messages around cancer prevention, screening and early diagnosis
~ Build your confidence to talk to the public about cancer
~ Help you to encourage people to make lifestyle changes, access local services and visit their GP promptly with any concerns
The workshop will be held from 9:00 to 12:00 on Thursday, 19 February 2015 at St Pancras Hospital.
The event is sponsored by Camden CCG’s Long Term Conditions and Cancer programme. Free.
To book a ticket or for more information contact ltceducation@camdenccg.nhs.uk or telephone 0203 688 2071.
Creating Connections 9
Thursday 5th February 6 – 8pm, UCL Main Quad Events Venue, Gower Street, WC1E 6BT
Creating Connections is our regular networking event that brings together university staff and postgraduate students with representatives from community organisations, charities, residents’ groups, social enterprises and statutory organisations. The evening is a mixture of themed discussions in small groups with more informal hob-nobbing; the aim is to find areas of common interest and collaborative working.
Our February event will have a particular focus on the commissioning of public services. It will be of value to anyone interested in how the higher education and the voluntary & community sectors can collaborate.
Note that the event is a short networking event for people interested in the theme issues – a starting point for finding like-minded people you might want to collaborate with. It’s intended for experts, beginners and everyone in between. It’s not a conference and there won’t be long plenary speeches or workshops!
Light refreshments will be provided. Register at uclu.org/creating-connections
Community Voices for Health (CV4H) Network event Monday 9th February 2015, 2 – 5pm
Help us shape our future health priorities at Conference room, Voluntary Action Islington
This half day event is aimed at CV4H members [see also below for non members]. It will:
• Provide an overview of LVSC and University of East London discussions with UCL Partners
• Explain more about the UCL Partners programme and hear from Fiona McKenzie, Patient Experience and User Involvement Project Manager for London Cancer, the Integrated Cancer System for North Central and North East London and West Essex within UCL Partners.
• Report on VCS impact on reducing Health Inequalities – feed-back from conference and next steps?
• Help to shape potential future priorities for CV4H in the context of UCL Partners’ programme, as well as inform LVSC’s strategic health programme through its membership of Regional Voices.
• Help to shape future priorities for VCS engagement to inform LVSC strategic priorities.
I hope you will join us. If you aren’t currently a member of the network (or aren’t sure if you are) but would like to come to the event, please contact Sandra van der Feen, LVSC: sandra@lvsc.org.uk in the first instance.
Camden Carers Service Events
Most events, outings, training and other activities are open to all carers who are registered with us, unless stated for a particular group by condition, or other criteria. Please check with CCS if in doubt about your eligibility for an event or activity.
1. Outings and Guided Tours – We offer a selection of activities around London all of which are available for free for carers.
2. Carers Yoga – fortnightly classes for carers of all abilities. Wear loose fitting clothes
3. Benefits Training with Mary Ward – a 3-session course on offer to both Male Carers and also to all Carers in partnership with Mary Ward Legal Centre. The course offer hands on advice and experience with how to use websites, talk on the phone with benefits officers and raise your benefits claims in a manner that gets results.
4. 1st Aid Training with St John’s Ambulance – A new scheme to train carers around London.
5. Art Social Workshop – A space to socialise and get artistic.
6. Mindfulness for Carers- 2-session introduction course for Carers by Robert Mitcham. Robert runs weekly mindfulness sessions on Monday evenings in Euston that are free for all carers.
7. Male Carers Group – a new group for Male Carers. The aim of the group is to provide a space for Male Carers to be men while offering tools for energy maintenance and carer related training.
We also have two very SPECIAL EVENTS: Thursday 26th February – Life Outside Caring Fair – lots of interesting activities, stalls and information for you to find something different to do outside your caring role – with lunch! Tuesday 3rd March – Special Interactive Training Day on Keeping Safe whilst Caring – with Kevin Morgan and Nick Llewellyn bringing the issues to life. There are many more events – please see the website for further details. www.camdencs.org.uk
“An Introduction to Intergenerational Working” – training day Tuesday 3 February 2015
This session run by Camden adult social care will be of particular interest to community workers, youth workers, school teaching staff, early years staff, care staff in sheltered housing, resource centres or residential work, community arts workers and anyone else in Camden who would like to begin to organise intergenerational events or improve their intergenerational practice.
The session is ideal for people who have recently started intergenerational work who would like to organise activities or events for Camden intergenerational week 2015.
The session is free for anyone who works, lives, volunteers or studies in the Borough of Camden.
For further information or to book a place, contact:
Rena Toufexis, Engagement coordinator, Camden adult social care
Email: rena.toufexis@camden.gov.uk / Tel: 020 7974 3265
Don’t forget that Camden TDS run a full programme of course which are subsidised or free for voluntary sector partner organisations. There is a link to a list of partner organisations on the home page.
Find more Training Opportunities at www.vac.org.uk

 

JOBS AND VOLUNTEERS
Kingsgate Community Centre seeks:
Deputy Youth Worker: £18,000 27hrs a week

2 x Sessional Play worker: £9 p/h 25hrs a week
The role of the Deputy Youth Worker is to assist the Community Play Youth Development Manager with the planning and delivery of an exciting programme of activities for the children and young people who live in the Ward of Kilburn, as well as face to face work with children and young people. You will have the chance to lead on projects.
You will be required to work during the term time and holidays and some evenings.
The role of Sessional Play Workers is to assist the Deputy Youth worker with the delivery of an innovative range of activities, and engage in face to face work with children and young people.
You will be required to work initially during the Holidays and subsequently term time.
We are after our workers to get involved and work with the transitional age range 8 – 14yrs.
Although we would prefer our candidates to have a professional qualification in Youth Work or Level 2 in Play Work; relevant experience in the field or other related professions will be accepted.
We do not accept CV’s as part of our application process.
Kingsgate Community Association is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and families and all posts are subject to enhanced CRB disclosure.
Closing date: 20th February 2015. Interview: 9th March 2015
To request an application pack please email: info@kingsgatecc.org.uk or 0207 328 9480
The Ethiopian Community in Britain is recruiting a Part Time Co-ordinator
– The post holder will be responsible for the management of the day to day activities of the Ethiopian Community in Britain to achieve its overall aims and objectives.
– The post holder is expected to carry out duties of a level of responsibility appropriate to the post
– The post holder will also be expected to deputise in other areas with a similar level of responsibility as and when required by the Board of Trustees.
The Candidate Profile:
– A commitment to promote the aims and objectives of the ECB
– A GSCE level education with 4 years relevant experience or a Degree level education with 2 years relevant experience.
– Ability to develop and manage various community-based projects and raise funds
– Ability to liaise with and negotiate with various statutory and non-statutory bodies
– Experience of managing Volunteers, facilities and resources
– Excellent communication skills both in English and Amharic
– A sound knowledge of Charity Organisations and various relevant legislations
– Ability to use own initiative and prioritise conflicting demands of the role
– A good organisational and administrative skills and ability to use the Microsoft Office packages
– Understanding and commitment to equal opportunities
Gross annual salary: £10,000.- (21 hours per week for 1 year with a possibility of extension subject to availability of funding)
Closing Date for Application: 19th February 2015 at 4pm.
For application pack, please send an A4 size envelope with 80p SAE to: Ethiopian Community in Britain, 2A Lithos Road, London NW3 6EF or interested applicants can collect the pack from the office Monday to Friday between 10am and 4pm
For more information on the job advert, please contact:
Mr Alemahu Dessie, email: postmaster@ethiopiancommunity.co.uk ; tel: 020 7794 4265
Camden CCG seeks part-time carer for someone who has mental health problems
As a CCG, we are committed to designing and developing services which our residents tell us they need and we know we can’t do this in isolation. To help us succeed in our innovative mental health programme we are looking to recruit a part time Programme Support Manager (PSM) who has lived experience of providing care for someone who has mental health issues.
Working closely with another PSM, this role will coordinate all service user and carer involvement related to the programme and act as the conduit between the CCG and the wider service user/carer networks across Camden.
This is an exciting opportunity to be involved in a cutting edge transformational portfolio which will change the way mental health services are delivered across Camden, improving outcomes for service users and providing value for money for the NHS.
This is a 10 month fixed term post, secondments are welcomed. Successful applicants must have:
~ Experience of providing care for someone who has experienced mental health problems.
~ Experience in supporting the use of Camden mental health services.
~ Experience of carer involvement within mental health services in Camden.
~ A knowledge of health and social care services in Camden.
~ An understanding of service user and carer involvement in health and social care.
“Please note, this position will be subject to NHS standard pre-employment checks, which include reference checks, ID check, Disclosure and Barring Service (criminal record) check and Occupational Health screening. If you have any questions about these checks, please speak to the HR department at NELCSU”
Closing Date: 02/02/15 Interview Date: week commencing: 16/02/15
For full details, please visit: http://jobs.nelondoncsu.nhs.uk/job/v350873
Camden Carers Service seeks Volunteer Co-ordinator
CSS are a consortium of two organisations and would like to increase the number of volunteers we involve as well as the range of volunteering roles. This is where you would come in. You will help us think about what volunteer roles would be useful, write the role outlines, promote and recruit to these roles. Additionally, you will help to make sure that all our volunteers are comfortable with what they are doing and check in with them regularly. Arranging social events for our volunteers and encouraging our service users to volunteer will be part of parcel of your time with us.
As well, our volunteer procedures need streamlining and perhaps updating too. So your contribution here would be most welcome.
Mentoring from an experienced Volunteer Manager is on offer as well as being part of a new consortium. You will gain people management skills, so useful when seeking employment. CCS supports personal development, so you will have the opportunity to take full advantage of everything they have to offer. Through Volunteer Centre Camden you will have access to the Central London volunteer centres volunteer management training, to include an introduction to volunteer management and support and supervision of volunteers. CCS offers safe-guarding training and also has access to further training through London Borough of Camden.
Travel and lunch expanses paid. Contact Camden Carers Service for further informationtamari@camdencarers.org.uk Tell: 02074288950
Camden Carers Service seeks Befrienders
Would you like to help older carers around the borough of Camden have a better social life too? Do you value older people? Do you have time available in the day? Are you friendly and reliable?
Camden Carers Service is launching a new project to provide befriending and support for our older carers. We are looking to recruit volunteers interested in befriending from a range of backgrounds, varying life experiences and across all ages. People who are friendly, patient, good listeners and understanding will be spending time with carers on a weekly basis for a couple of hours or so.
Volunteering with CCS as a befriender means you provide support (typically up to 12 weeks) for older carers after the initial introduction process. You will need to be able to visit your befriendees regularly for minimum of 3 hours per week. DBS check required. Contact Camden Carers Service for further information contacttamari@camdencarers.org.uk Tell: 02074288950
Elfrida Rathbone Camden seeks Sessional Advocacy Caseworker
£15.51 hourly rate 0 hours contract (minimum 7 hours per week with possibility of additional hours)
Job purpose to provide casework, advice and advocacy to the following groups and individuals; parents of children with SEND, adults and CYP with disabilities and vulnerable families.
• To support the running of weekly drop-in support sessions
• To coordinate and supervise drop-in support and advise volunteers.
Closing date: Monday 2nd February 2015 (midnight)
Further details and application form at Elfrida Rathbone Camden website.
Fairtrade Volunteer Wanted
Mayu with Fairtrade Camden Network are supporting coffee farmers in Oromia, Ethiopia. The new caffe and show room for organic and single origin coffee now opened in 13 Brecknock road, London N7 0BL. Volunteers are needed in the coffee shop to promote Fairtrade and ethical trading. Contact Demissie Tulu email:d2robi@yahoo.co.uk
Kentish Town City Farm is recruiting a Trustee.
The City Farm is a long established Camden organisation and is looking for a new addition to the board of trustees. Please contact Rachel@ktcityfarm.org.uk for information
£3000 AGE grant for employers recruiting an apprentice – available for six months only
Between January and June 2015, London-based employers of 250 staff or fewer can access a grant of £3,000 if they choose to recruit an apprentice aged 16-24. The grant is available exclusively to employers who have not recruited an apprentice in the last twelve months. Grants are available after the apprentice has been in post for thirteen weeks.
Apprenticeships are a cost-effective way to tackle skills shortages, helping organisations across all industries to harness fresh talent.
For advice on accessing the grant and support in recruiting an apprentice in recruiting an apprentice, please contact the Camden Apprenticeships team on 0207 974 1736 or email apprenticeships@camden.gov.uk
Trustee / Management Committee Member for Camden Federation of Private Tenants
We need enthusiastic and committed individuals to contribute to the development and growth of our small but important housing charity, which gives a voice to vulnerable and disadvantaged private renters, who now make up over a third of Camden’s households
We particularly need people with skills, knowledge and experience in one or more of
the following areas, but an interest in private tenants’ issues, commitment and reliability are also important:
Fundraising; Communications; Marketing; Social Media
Full details at Do-it.org.uk
Socially Responsible Recruiting
A new, award-winning skills matching service that connects employers with skilled and experienced people to do one-off or part-time jobs has launched in Camden, with a strong social benefit ethic.
“There is a very large number of people in Camden who are fantastically skilled and work-ready but are off the radar to employers because they’re not looking for full-time work and aren’t constantly scouring the job ads,” says Jonathan Collie, founder of Trading Times.
These people are highly skilled over 50s, and family carers. Trading Times brings them to you. It’s free to candidates. It costs you only £35, and only when you are connected to the perfect candidates.
Paul Fordham of Abbey Community Centre in Camden said: “”We posted our occasional job opportunity onTrading Times because we at the Abbey Community Centre recognise the value of the flexibility that can come with age. Trading Times offers a tailored means to directly target opportunities at an older group that the vast majority of other job sites simply do not seem to tap.”
Register at https://tradingtimes.org.uk/ and let Trading Times match you with the right local people for your needs.
Henna Asian Women’s Group Befriending Service 2015
Henna Asian Women’s Group is opening their Befriending service to all individuals that are in need for extra help to improve their social circle in the new year. We will reach out to the most vulnerable individuals that live in any Borough of London. Henna volunteers will pay regular weekly visits to clients and support them into taking steps to come out of the home and access different services.
We are recruiting both Male and Female volunteers to become Befrienders on this project. If you have a few hours to spare each week, would like to gain experience in the health and social care sector or simply just want to give something back to the community then please contact us.
Contact Ammarah Ahmad, ammarah_hennaorg@yahoo.co.uk, Telephone: 020 7372 9860, Volunteer Coordinator, Henna Asian Women’s Group, www.hennaorg.co.uk
SkillShare
Skillshare is an easy way to find skilled people to support your organisation. What sort of skills are on your wish list? Current skills on offer include: furniture restoration, photography, Nia technique instructor and food and textiles teacher, plus many more. Thirty local organisations are already signed up and accessing our database of skilled volunteers. The last volunteer we placed was a photographer who is going to be taking photographs of Camden for two local organisations.
For more information contact SkillShare, skillshare@volunteercentrecamden.org.uk or 020 7424 9990.
CamdenPAs – personal assistants in health and social care
A new website www.camdenpas.org.uk has been created in partnership with HCCT, Camden Council, DISC andAge UK Camden to boost the market of health and social care personal assistant and provide more choice for the employers of PAs.
CamdenPAs is new way for those wanting to employ a personal assistant to find a PA who meets their interests and needs. Employers can look through PA profiles or post their own advertisement to specify what they are looking for.
The site is also an opportunity for those with an interest/experience in health and social care roles to promote themselves in this expanding market. The site is an exciting, flexible opportunity to gain entry into employment since more and more people have personal budgets and direct payments and are becoming employers. It
is also an opportunity for trainees or those who have worked as unpaid carers.
The site matches Personal Assistants with potential employers. It allows PAs to add ‘profiles’ promoting their skills, experience and interests. They can also view and respond to the ‘ads’ of those wanting to employ a PA.
Access CamdenPAs at: www.camdenpas.org.uk
If you have any questions do get in touch via the email below, or contact DISC and Age UK Camden who can assist potential employers interested in recruiting PAs or creating their ad. contact@camdenpas.org.uk
Find Jobs and Volunteering opportunities at https://www.vac.org.uk/vacancies/
OFFERS, RESOURCES and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mary Ward Legal Centre offers free Debt Advice
Worried about your debts and bills? Want free confidential help to sort these out? Want to know your options without getting further into debt? Credit card debts; Bailiffs; Bankruptcy; Utility debts; Rent or mortgage arrears; Council tax arrears
Mary ward legal centre is an independent charity based in Holborn offering free, confidential and independent debt advice. To access this free service Call 020 7269 0292 or drop into the Mary Ward Legal Centre Monday to Friday between 10-1 or 2-4. 10 Great Turnstile, WC1V 7JU (off High Holborn). www.marywardlegal.org.uk
Camden People First hate and mate crime community project
Camden Peole First offer 1 to 1 support from the office in Camden. We give hate and mate crime workshops on Mondays. To find out more about Camden People First. call 020 73 88 20 07 or email:info@camdenpeoplefirst.co.uk or come to 215 Eversholt Street (Ampthill Square), London NW1 1DE
Visiting the VCS
Starting in early 2015 the Community and Third Sector team would like spend a bit more time working more closely with Camden’s voluntary and community organisations to see at first hand some of the challenges – as well as the achievements – that you face. The team would like you to invite one person from our team who will work from your building or office for one day per month for three months (or longer if all goes well!). We will bring our laptops – all we will need is a table or desk and access to your wi fi – perhaps there would be space in your reception area. We will be getting on with our own work – but happy to lend a hand informally if needed. Hopefully this will enable the Community and Third Sector team and VCS colleagues to get to know each other better and help us have a better understanding of some of your day to day work. If you are interested in taking part please email Noor.Al-Baddawy@camden.gov.uk or call her on 020 7974 6626.
Hate Crime Survey
Camden Council is conducting research to help us learn more about the impact of hate crime in Camden. Hate crime and hate incidents are when someone is targeted because of personal characteristics. This could be because of race, faith, sexual orientation, disability or transgender identity. You can help by taking part in our online survey, and passing this message on to colleagues and users of your organisation who would be interested in giving their views on hate crime in Camden: wearecamden.org/hatecrimesurvey
OneCamden is the website to help you access Voluntary and Community Sector support in Camden. Find support to help you volunteer, or find volunteers; support for your voluntary organisation (from charity registration to Community Accountancy); or get advice on starting a Social Enterprise. There are links and resources on this site and links to the partner’s sites. If you would like to request support use the ‘Get Help’button on the top right to let us know what support you need and we will be in touch.
This is a new initiative for Camden so do let us know what you think, or if you have any suggestions to makeOneCamden better.
FREE VAC Membership for Unfunded Groups: Voluntary Action Camden Small organisations with no paid staff and a turnover of less than ?1,500 can now join for FREE. To take advantage of this offer just fill in the membership form which can be downloaded from the VAC website or you can enter your details via our sector survey here.
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