Voluntary Action Camden

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VAC E-Bulletin 25th October 2024

 


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Spotlight  |   Features, News and Policy  |   Funding   |   Events and Training   |
Jobs and Volunteering   |   Surveys, Resources and Opportunities

Consultancy Services and New Groups Network

If you need information and support about;

– how to start a community group
– registering a charity or social enterprise
– developing your policies
– searching and finding funding for your projects
– finding premises
– attending capacity building training 

Join VAC’s Networks for peer support, sharing knowledge and strengthening the VCS ‘ voice in decision-making. Contact us via our website – Consultancy for Charities & Community Groups – VAC and complete our VAC enquiry form.
If you are considering starting a new community group or charitable organisation in Camden and would like to meet like minded people and organisations, join the Camden New Groups Network that VAC has developed.

On 30th of September at our latest meeting, the members of the Network met with the GTR Funder and learned about new funding opportunities and a new grant starting this month. In previous meetings the New Groups Network members met funders like City Bridge Foundation, Camden Giving, Easy Fundraising, and received guidance from VAC Membership Development Officer Vania on how to search for grants using VAC’s website at https://funding.idoxopen4community.co.uk/camdencommunity

Email VAC’s Membership Development Officer, Vania at vguetova@vac.org.uk on Mondays, Tuesdays or Wednesdays.

The best way to get the most support from VAC is to sign up for the VAC free membership on our website – https://vac.org.uk/get-involved/membership


or
complete and submit the VAC membership request form by clicking on https://www.tfaforms.com/4671166 

Upcoming Training & Events

 

Open to VAC Members only
If you are a voluntary service or group delivering services in Camden and are not a member of VAC, please join here: https://vac.org.uk/get-involved/membership

The Camden Safety Bus

The Camden Safety Bus is a safe space for anyone in Camden who needs assistance, support or just someone to talk to when on a night out. This includes women and girls who often don’t feel safe or have experienced harassment or inappropriate behaviour. Whether you’re feeling vulnerable, or you need to charge your phone, grab a water or find a route home – we’re here for you. You can visit us at: Camden High Street, opposite Camden Town Tube Station, every Friday and Saturday, 9.30pm to 2.30am.

Trustees report struggle to achieve positive EDI outcomes

A study by the Directory of Social Change of performance in seven key governance areas has revealed that equality, diversion and inclusion (EDI) as the area in which charity trustees reported having the least success. The project asked trustees to rate their charities own outcomes across a range of areas, including integrity and organisational purposes, and suggested that while many charities support principles of positive EDI outcomes, they are struggling to achieve them in practice. 

Survey indicates lack of trust in X as a useful platform

84% of respondents to a recent survey said they were reviewing the platforms they currently use, with many speaking about having left X recently due to concerns about the role the platform has in spreading disinformation, as well as seeing lower engagement there than in the past. The report by The Barrow Cadbury Trust, “Social Media in the Social Justice Sector“, studied use and perceptions of different social media platforms.

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!

 

  • Mer-IT Donated Computers Scheme – Does your organisation support individuals to get online and need devices to do so? Mer-IT will be donating laptops and desktops (including keyboard, mouse, monitor and cables) in time for Christmas. All devices will have a minimum specification to run Windows 10, MacOS Big Sur or Linux Mint. Visit the website to apply before 31st October
  • Cultural Bridge Fund – grants are available to creative organisations for projects which build new and existing relationships to support intercultural exchange and dialogue in the field of participative arts and culture between Germany and the UK.
  • Leeds Building Society Foundation intended to support projects to improve the health, wellbeing and financial literacy of people who are experiencing homelessness.
  • eBay Circular Fashion Fund to help UK-based small firms specialising in pre-loved fashion solutions to access new technology and deliver innovative solutions.
  • Joseph Rowntree Foundation’s Storytellers Fund – grants are available to cover the costs for the dissemination and distribution of already developed content that aims to inspire positive social change and reach wider audiences within the UK.
  • Abrdn Financial Fairness Trust aims to support projects focused on the household finances of people on low-to-middle incomes in the UK during the transition to Net Zero and adjustment to climate change. 

Black History Month at VAC

5 Black Fathers – A documentary (October 30th)

COP 29 2-week Series @ STCA

The Somers Town Community Association (STCA) is hosting two weeks worth of free, open-to-all workshops / activities / sessions in partnership with different individuals and organisations to inspire and encourage ideas, conversations and hope around community and climate. Light snacks and drinks to be provided. You can find the list of events that will be running and register for them and more information here. 11-22 Nov.

GoodGym Camden Active Volunteering

GoodGym Camden are a local volunteering group, and they like to combine being active and doing good! Each week, they run, walk, or cycle to a local community organisation for some form of active volunteering – think cutting brambles, planting trees, or painting bike railings – and they’d like to welcome anyone wanting to join their friendly and inclusive group. They’re off to Kentish Town City Farm on Saturday 26th October – full details here. Alex from GoodGym can also be contacted at alexmurtough@goodgym.org if you have any questions. 

Join Castlehaven for a Food Growing Celebration

Castlehaven Community Association and Camden Council are hosting a fun, free, and educational food-growing event at Clarence Hall (NW1 8RN) on Tuesday 5th November, from 2:00–6:30 pm. Celebrate local growers and sustainable food with free food, short films, talks, arts & crafts. Whether you’re an experienced food grower or just starting, there’s something for everyone. Come along to learn, connect, and get inspired! For more info, email environmentalteam@castlehaven.org.uk or call 0744 3274 572.

COP 29: An evening exhibition

The Somers Town Community Association is holding a free evening evening photo exhibition on Nov 20, with food and drinks to showcase its journey (so far) as a community centre working on the Future Neighbourhood 2030 programme. It will also be a space and opportunity for individuals and organisations to meet and create meaningful connections and conversations. Register here

AI for Charities at YCF

This free Tools & Time-Saving Strategies Webinar hosted by Young Camden Foundation takes place on Thursday 31st October. Tis half-day training will break down what AI is and why it’s important for anyone running youth or children’s programs, even if you’re short on time and not super tech-savvy. Find out more and reserve your tickets here

Half term film project at HCA

Learn from professional filmmakers from Mountain Way Pictures in collaboration with Cockpit Studios to shoot interviews with local artists and make your own documentary film. Hosted by Holborn Community Association, for ages 12-21, on 29th, 30th & 31st October. To book, call 0207 405 2370 (opt 1) or email 1aarts@holborncommunity.co.uk

Google Q4 Community Training Day

This is a regular opportunity for local organisations to get together at Google’s King’s Cross office for a networking lunch, skills training and a chance to share lessons learned from our community leaders. The Community Leaders Panel will explore how charities can leverage accessible tech for fundraising, operations, and outreach, while the training session will introduce learners to cutting-edge AI tools that are already available from Google and others, to show some of the smartest ways digital-age workers and small businesses can use them to save time at work and on tasks. RSVP here.
14th November, 6 Pancras Square, London N1C 4AG

Brave Café : working together to address domestic abuse

Invitation to Camden residents, business and interested community partners: You are cordially invited to the second Brave Cafe in Camden on 6th November at the Crowndale Centre, 218 Everhort street, NW1 1BD. The session will be addressing the crucial issue of domestic abuse. This exclusive event is designed for Camden residents and community partners who are eager to engage in an open and safe dialogue. RSVP to equalities@camden.gov.uk to express your interest in attending.

 

Kurdish Community meeting

After 13 years of great Kurdish Community meetings at Haverstock School, meetings are moving to the iconic British Library. This month’s meeting is on 26th October at the Last Word Cafe in the plaza of the British Library. The meetings are run on a monthly basis by Kurdish volunteers in order to help the community get together, celebrate ethnic identity, share knowledge in a sociable, cultural, educational and family friendly setting. All are welcome. 

Fitzrovia Youth in Action Youth Action Showcase

Fitzrovia Youth in Action will be holding its annual Youth Action Showcase on Tuesday 29th October at the Indian YMCA, 41 Fitzroy Square, W1T 6AQ. Last year, FYA supported over 700 young people in delivering social action, across over 50 cohorts. At the showcase, young people will screen films and present examples of place-based social action, different types of peer support and creative ways in which they have co-produced system change. There will be a chance to network, and lunch will be served at 1pm. Places can be booked here. For further details contact Farzana.Sania@fya.org.uk.

Free Community Leadership Workshops for Camden Residents

Taught by tutors from Birkbeck who have run Community Development and Leadership courses in London for over 10 years, these workshops aim to help participants gain skills, knowledge and confidence. Networking and sharing knowledge and experiences is also encouraged. 5 in-person sessions from the 6th November:

1. Community Engagement. 2. Project Development. 3. Community Leadership. 4. Health, Wellbeing and Resilience. 5. Project Evaluation & Next Steps 

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 121 advice from a qualified coach.
20th November, Clean Break, NW5 2LB. 

Collingham Gardens Nursery Manager

 

Collingham Gardens Nursery, a small, not-for-profit community nurse in Central London is looking for a leader with a heart for adventure and a commitment to nurturing young minds to join their team. Find out more information and how to apply here

 

Deputy Play Manager at The Winch

 

Take the lead in supporting children to thrive. The Winch are looking for a hands-on Deputy Play Manager to help deliver dynamic after-school and holiday playschemes. You’ll lead a team in creating a vibrant space filled with arts, sports, and exciting projects. We provide a nurturing environment where children flourish, and families receive the support they need. If you’re passionate about play apply now.
Closing Date: 3rd November

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.

 

Fundraiser at Gospel Oak Action Link Youth Club

 

GOALYC is a Camden based Charity providing at no cost to users, a rich variety of sports, music, education and other activities to mostly disadvantaged young people in the Gospel Oak area. They are looking for a fundraiser to play a vital role in securing funding and help the charity’s direction, upkeep, and policies, that create a positive difference to our youth. The role is a self-employed Fundraising Officer, reporting to the GOALYC Board of Trustees. If you’re intertested, send your CV and cover letter to Mei@qcca.org.uk.
Deadline: 30th October 

 

Time to Shine Volunteer Coordinator (Camden Carers)

 

Camden Carers are looking for a hardworking, enthusiastic and flexible team member to join their dynamic team at Camden Carers and make a difference to the lives of people and families in Camden. This role will work closely with carers, colleagues, Trustees and volunteers to create a volunteer Strategy for the Organisation.
Deadline: 1st November 

 

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.

 

Volunteer Trustees including Chair of Trustees at GOALYC

Gospel Oak Action Link Youth Club (GOALYC) is a Camden based Charity providing at no cost to users, a rich variety of sports, music, education and other activities to mostly disadvantaged young people in the Gospel Oak area. They are looking for Volunteer Trustees who will guide the charity’s direction, upkeep, and policies, making key decisions that create a positive difference to our youth. If you are interested in becoming a GOALYC trustee, you can find out more by emailing mei@qcca.org.uk.

Sociable Seats –  Local Community project

Sociable Seats is a free art and theatre project exclusive to people aged 55+. Guided by local artists, the programme will co-create temporary art installations of Kilburn’s street benches & create a short performance to perform at the re-imagined benches. Absolutely no experience is necessary, and everyone is welcome. The project is weekly from 7th November. More information can be found here. To get involved drop Lucy a line: lucy@patina-people.com or 07553 474748.

Lived Experience Advisory Group

Individuals & carers experiencing multiple long-term health conditions living in Camden and surrounding areas are invited to join NCL Health Alliance’s Lived Experience Advisory Group, to inform the design of health and care for people with long-term conditions. The programme aims to make healthcare better by making sure hospital doctors, GPs and community services work more closely together. NCL expect to hold 3-4 meetings over 6 months, or one off interviews for people unable to commit to regular meetings, and you’ll be paid £25 per hour for your work with them. For more information or to sign up, please email: nclha@uclpartners.com.

Participate in Workshops on AI in the Asylum System

 

Migrant Rights have announced announce a new research project exploring the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on people going through the asylum system. They are hosting workshops followed by paid interviews with participants to dive deeper into their contributions, with the goal of creating a shared information resource by the end of the project. Participants will receive £50 vouchers per interview, along with travel expenses covered and food provided at each workshop. For questions, support with the application form, or deadline extensions, contact info@migrantsrights.org.uk with “AI Project” in the subject line.
Application Deadline: 27th October

 

Local VCS Newsletters

If you would like your Camden VCS newsletter added to this list, please email social@vac.org.uk

 

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