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State of the sector report launch event

Our whole team, but particularly our Membership Development Officer, Vania Guetova, have been working really hard to better show how our services, projects and collaborative work with partners have made an impact on civil society in Camden. The Camden Community Infrastructure Partners – VAC, VCC, C4, YCF and Camden Community Partners Team – recently launched the externally commissioned and first for the borough of Camden State of the Voluntary and Community Sector report.

The launch of the report on 6^th November was hosted by VAC. Among the honoured guests were members of the Camden CEOs, Trustees and New Groups Networks, leaders of the VAC, VCC,C4, YCF and Camden Community Partnership Team who were taken through the report with a presentation by an externally commissioned consultant Ian Beaver. The aim of the report is to help local stakeholders better understand the strengths and challenges of Camden’s civil society in today’s operating environment. The research enabled Camden Community Infrastructure partners to see the sector’s support requirements against some of the biggest challenges the research identified.

To find out more read the full State of the Sector Report on our website.

If you would like to join one of the VAC Networks please contact Vania at vguetova@vac.org.uk. 

For more information about our networks visit VAC website – see links below:

CEO Network

New Groups Network

Camden Trustee Network

If you have any technical difficulties please email info@vac.org.uk.

Thanks to Vania and all of our Community Infrastructure partners for working so hard on this report!

Upcoming Training & Events

• Camden Carers Service face to face session: Who Cares for the Carer? Voluntary Action Camden, 8-12 Camden High St, NW1 0JH, 13th November, 10:00 am – 11:30 am
• Virtual Workshop: Introduction to Tender – Building a society based on care, kindness and respect, 14th November, 10:00 am – 11:00 am
• Face-to-face: Understanding Domestic Abuse and Cohesive Control Crowndale Centre 3rd Floor, Training Room 3, 218 Eversholt St, NW1 1BD, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
• Face-to-face: Understanding Safeguarding & Culture in Black and Ethnic Families. (In partnership with AFRUCA) Crowndale Centre 3rd Floor, NW1 1BD, 27th November, 10:00 am – 11:45 am

The 2024 ACEVO Pay and Equalities Survey has revealed that the number of charity CEOs from minoritised ethnic backgrounds has not changed from 7%, the same figure as last year. The survey also showed that the gender pay gap in the charity sector has risen to 14.4%, compared to 8.3% the previous year. The findings were criticised by the CEO of ACEVO, Jane Ide: “For a sector that is driven by purpose and the belief that change can be made real, we seem to be either deeply unwilling or systemically unable to make meaningful change for the people that we task with leading our sector”.

Closure of NCS could impact on youth services

The recently announced closure of the National Citizen Service programme and the NCS Trust which runs it has been criticised, amid concern that it will affect funding for youth services. The government announced that the programme will be replaced by a new national youth strategy from March 2025. 

Research explores ethics around accepting donations

Charities that outright refuse donations from sources with different values to their own should reconsider, according to a new paper published by think thank Rogare, in partnership with the Chartered Institute of Fundraising. The paper argues that the primary condition for accepting donations should be the potential for harm. CIoF director of policy and communications, Claire Stanley, said charities should develop a robust decision-making process for dealing with donations on a case by case basis.

Every week VAC checks various sources for the latest funding opportunities relevant for Camden groups.

You can visit our website for a round up of the latest opportunities added this week: Search for Funding – Voluntary Action Camden (vac.org.uk).

We’ve included a selection of the latest funds below but check out our new funding portal for many more opportunities.

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

• Compass Wellbeing North Central East London CAMHS Provider Collaborative 2024/25 Grant Scheme for projects aimed at supporting the mental health needs of children and young people across our footprint.
• National Lottery Community Funds for increasing the voice and resilience of communities and the organisations that support them.
• Action for Women’s Health – grants are available for organisations in the UK and around the world that are improving women’s mental and physical health.
• European Artificial Intelligence & Society Fund for not-for-profit organisations in the UK to support immediate work to promote social justice objectives in the implementation of the European Union’s AI Act.
• Rosa’s Voices from the Frontline Fund to support campaigning and influencing work that enables women and girls in the UK to use their voices to achieve change.
• 100x Impact Accelerator Programme for charities and social enterprises anywhere in the world who offer a game-changing solution that is already driving positive change and who can prove that amplifying their impact can result in change on a significant scale.

YCF Women & Non-Binary Leadership Forum

Are you a woman or non-binary professional in Camden’s Children & Young People Voluntary and Community Sector? Join Young Camden Foundation for the inaugural session of the Quarterly forum – a new space created by and for women and non-binary leaders to connect, share, and grow together. This forum is designed for all types of leaders, whether you’re a CEO, founder, director, manager, or an emerging leader. YCF welcome individuals who bring unique perspectives, whether you’re an established professional or an aspirational leader looking to make an impact. 3rd December. 

Camden’s Disability Oversight Panel

Invites all disabled residents, carers and supporting VSC organisations to attend its forthcoming public engagement session, Developing a new cultural strategy for Camden, 2026-2031, on Monday 25 November 2024, 6.15pm – 8pm at the Conference Suite, Crowndale Centre, 218 Eversholt Street. With BSL Interpreters and Caption/ Speech to Text Support. Contact disabilityoversightpanel@camden.gov.uk or call 02 07 97 43 57 8 to register and for help with transport.

SEND Local Offer Launch Event

Camden’s SEND Local Offer Website is now live, and a launch event will take place on 25th November. Camden are inviting anyone with relevant services to host a stall at this event, to showcase the sports and leisure activities you offer for children and young people with SEND in Camden. The event will provide an excellent opportunity to promote your services to parents, carers, and frontline professionals who support families and are often seeking information about available activities. Your participation will also help enhance the Local Offer website by providing valuable insights into local activities and clubs, complementing the ongoing mapping exercise, and playing a crucial role in shaping future work.

Celebrate Black History Season with Camden

This November, Camden Council invites everyone to join in a vibrant celebration of Black history and culture. Don’t miss inspiring exhibitions, historical walks and delicious dining experiences that bring the richness of Black heritage to life. A few exciting highlights:
•    All Shall Be Afforded Dignity – Celebrating 30 years of South African democracy through art and reflection, from 7-28 November at Swiss Cottage Library
•    Black Radicals and Innovators Guided Walk – Join this walking tour through Camden’s Black history on 20 November, 11am to 1pm, meeting at Camden Town Hall.
For more information on upcoming events, click here.

Pathways at Birkbeck

Want support with deciding your next steps? Have a career in mind but unsure how to achieve it? Join Pathways for free advice and training. FREE LUNCH INCLUDED. Pathways gives you a space to reflect on life and your goals. Leave with a clear plan and local signposting, supported by 1 to 1 advice from a qualified coach.
20th November, Clean Break, NW5 2LB. 

Zen in Mind Community Festival

The Zen Project and Mind in Camden bring to you another of their monthly festivals to celebrate mental health and support the local Camden community. Open to all and all activities are free. Free food, massage, mindfulness sessions and more. Climb on board the big yellow American school bus and take part in activities to help create some calm and ease anxiety. With something for everyone, – no need to book, just turn up. More information here. November 21st.

Winter Wellness Drop-in at Castlehaven 

Castlehaven Community Association is hosting a free Winter Wellness Drop-In on 26th November, from 12 to 4 pm in their community kitchen. Everyone is welcome to stop by for health check-ups and support from NHS professionals, including blood pressure checks, COVID boosters, flu jabs, and general health advice. No booking needed. For more information, please email info@castlehaven.org.uk.

UCL Research Consultancy Clinic

UCL’s Community Research Initiative are hosting a clinic on 22nd November, a space to turn your data, evaluation and research needs into a quick and punchy project to be taken on by stellar research students. During the clinic you’ll take part in a bespoke, informal and friendly consultation with 1-3 trainee consultants to work out the details of a 2–3-month bite size research project. Find out more and register for the event here.

Camden Winter Market & Citizens Advice with STCA

St Pancras and Somers Town Living Centre have a number of events in the next few weeks, including a Winter Market on 22nd Nov, (Charlton Street, 10am-7pm), Citizens Advice interactive workshop on 21st Nov, and a biodiversity collage session on 20th Nov, among many more. You can find out more and sign up to all events here.

Participate in a Climate Strategy Room 

Camden Council invites you to join a Strategy Room at the Swiss Cottage Community Centre on November 23rd to help inform Camden’s next Climate Action Plan. In the space of 90 minutes, you will discuss different policies on food and energy. Camden are looking for 12 residents aged 18 and over to participate, and you do not need any specialist skills or knowledge to participate. Each participant will receive a £20 voucher for their time. Please register here by Thursday 21st November. Please email greencamden@camden.gov.uk for any questions. 

Children Hope Forever – HUB SUPPORT CLASS

Children Hope Forever are inviting you to join their ESOL CLASS to improve your Language skills and gain more opportunity working in the community and getting online learning. Starting on the 19th November, from 9:30 am-12:30PM, every Tuesday for 6 months. To join, email info@childrenhopeforever.co.uk or visit at 8-12 Camden High Street NW1 0JH. Phone contact: 02031691639.

Lifeafterhummus Creative chef and community educator

Lifeafterhummus Community Benefit Society are looking for an experienced cook or chef with a passion for people, food waste and sustainability. This role will have a predominant focus on low-fat, high-fibre plant-based / vegan cooking but not exclusively given the nature of the surplus food the organisation collect. The post provides a range of experiences and requires a variety of skills. You will be supported with your ongoing development by the operations Manager. As the café grows, the staffing will grow. 

People’s Museum Story Bike Promoter

Days:        1.5 days per week (with some flexibility)
Location:        People’s Museum Somers Town / outdoor working
Payment:        £12-15 per hour
1.    To help raise awareness of StoryBike as sustainable intergenerational taxi service
2.    To do outreach to engage community and build audience
3.    To develop and evaluate this service
4.    To develop museum awareness through outreach and communications

please email diana@aspaceforus.club with CV to apply.

Camden Carers – Trainee Volunteer Coordinator

Would you like the opportunity to work for Camden Carers supporting unpaid carers in Camden and gain the knowledge and skills needed to move into Volunteer Management? This exciting entry level 12 month paid placement will help you gain skills, knowledge and experience from developing the Volunteering programme. Camden Carers are looking for a hardworking, enthusiastic and flexible team member to join their dynamic team and make a difference to the lives of people and families in Camden.
Closing Date: 25th November 

Hearing Voices Service Manager (Mind in Camden)

Mind in Camden have an exciting opportunity for a motivated individual to join their Hearing Voices Team as a Service Manager. They are looking for a motivated and experienced individual to help sustain and develop the hearing voices projects. You will have experience of supervising or mentoring staff/volunteers, and have the skills necessary to build a strong and effective team.
Closing Date: 27th November 

HCA Doorstep Help – Volunteers Needed

Holborn Community Association’s Doorstep Help Project aims to reduce loneliness and isolation, while empowering older adults to continue living independently, through meaningful, fun and engaging befriending matches, with local volunteers. If this sounds like it could be of interest and you would like to find out more, please get in touch!
You can email on felia@holborncommunity.co.uk or call 07484036879 or 02074052370 (option 2). 

After School Club and Holiday Play Scheme: Play Worker

Not a morning person?! Are you looking for work after school and during school holidays? Do you have experience of supporting primary aged children? The Winch are looking for Play Workers and would love to hear from you! Working from our facilities in Swiss Cottage, Camden, you will join a supportive and experienced team of play workers providing daily after-school and holiday activities.

Trustee at Camden Music Trust

Camden Music Trust seeks a trustee to become chair, in due course, of its dynamic and committed board of nine trustees. The well-respected local charity works to help children & young people living in Camden access music education regardless of any obstacles, financial or otherwise. It fundraises to support bursaries, Saturday centres, inclusive music programmes, activities that engage children with special educational needs, and more. The successful candidate will have a deep commitment to music and education, and ensuring that music education is accessible to all children and young people. S/he will work well in a team, and have leadership qualities. A connection with Camden is helpful but not essential. Contact chair@camdenmusictrust.org.

Volunteer for Home-Start Camden & Islington

Home-Start’s volunteers are trained and supported to give free, confidential help and practical assistance to local parents of children under 5 who are struggling. Interested? If you have parenting or childcare experience, they invite you to join their next training course in November. Please contact eleni@homestartcamden.org.

Positively UK recruiting new chair + trustees

Positively UK is a charity supporting people living with HIV. They are looking for a new Chair of the Board of Trustees, and three new trustees to join their board.

Become a SHAK trustee

SHAK is seeking 2-3 new trustees with skills and time to commit to fundraising.  They are particularly interested in recruiting people who live locally and increasing representation at board level from minority communities. You would be joining at an exciting time when SHAK are undertaking a strategic review and setting in place a new plan forward.
If you are interested in applying please click here.

UCLH Birthing Buddies Scheme

Could you support pregnant women and birthing people from your community and be a Birth Advocate? UCLH are recruiting women from different backgrounds to be part of a pilot to provide support to those that are pregnant within their community. They need dedicated individuals based in Camden (18+) who will be trained and compensated to support women through their pregnancy journey. Email uclhmaternityvoices@gmail.com to find out more.

Opportunity to share views on HPV Vaccine

Groundwork London is working alongside communities to find out how to protect young people against cancers caused by HPV. Since Covid, fewer young people are taking up the HPV vaccine (for girls, it’s from 80% to 49% taking the vaccine). Groundwork want to know why, and to make sure that all communities are getting the information they need to make informed choices. Certain groups are less likely to be protected by the vaccine, and it is particularly important to hear from them: young people in year 7 and 8, parents and carers, and young people aged 16 to 25.  For small voluntary organisations, Groundwork can supply a small budget to cover staff time and building costs for a session. Please get in touch with Molly Sweeney on molly.sweeney@groundwork.org.uk.

Call out for the Camden Youth Dance Festival

Apply now to be a part of the Camden Youth Dance Festival taking place on 28th Feb 2025! Camden Youth Dance Festival is an annual celebration of dance by young people across Camden. It’s a fantastic chance for young people from schools and community groups in our local borough to get to showcase their talent on a professional stage. Dancers must be between 11 and 18 years. Pieces can be up to 7 minutes long, with no more than 25 dancers per group. Applications close on 13th December.

The NLWA want to hear from you!

The NLWA want to understand residents’ current reuse habits and thoughts about single-use plastics. Fill in a short survey today AND be in with a chance to win a £200 voucher! The survey is open to anyone over 18, living in Camden, Enfield, Hackney, Haringey and Islington. Take the survey.

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