Voluntary Action Camden e-bulletin – 7th October

Membership is free, click on the link box above and join us today

We also have information on a range of local events and opportunities from around the Camden area.

Camden Infrastructure Alliance: Cost-of-Living Crisis Joint Statement 

The Camden Infrastructure Alliance – Voluntary Action Camden, C4 and Volunteer Centre Camden – have published a joint statement urgently calling for targeted financial government support for the Voluntary and Community Sector in the face of the cost-of-living crisis.

We are deeply concerned about the additional pressures of a cold winter on Camden’s already overstretched community services.

To read the full statement, please click here

Cost of Living Crisis Survey to Camden Voluntary Sector Groups

The Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) provides essential support for those in need, but it also finds itself under enormous pressure as a result of the current cost-of-living crisis.

We are deeply concerned for the continued resilience of our sector and are calling for cross-sector unity and resistance to the much-anticipated reduction in public spending.

We have put together a short survey to help understand how your organisation is responding to the cost of living crisis, the ongoing and evolving impact and what further support you need to tackle this new challenge.
The results of this survey will inform plans to provide additional support to the sector.
The survey shouldn’t take longer than 10 minutes and is available here

Advanced Safeguarding Children Training: Developing Knowledge and Understanding

Tuesday 1st November 2022

This in-person training session is for voluntary, community and supplementary school groups and organisations delivering services to under-18s and their families in Camden. It aims to increase existing safeguarding knowledge for those who have had child protection training in the past three years and need a refresher. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of safeguarding issues relevant to local, micro and marginalised communities.

For more information or to book your place, please contact Dianne Carlton-Ogunyemi at dogunyemi@vac.org.uk

Homes for Ukraine: Host Families 

Since March 2022, over 200 Camden households have welcomed and supported Ukrainian arrivals by offering them a space in their home. The war in Ukraine is sadly still ongoing, with people and families being forced to flee their homes. If you’re able to help, consider signing up to the Homes for Ukraine scheme.
For more information, please contact ukrainesupport@camden.gov.uk

Roundhouse Music Accelerator  

Closing date: Monday 10th October at 11pm

The Roundhouse Music Accelerator programme helps young music entrepreneurs aged 18-30 take their business idea to the next level. Successful applicants will receive weekly workshops, pitch practice and mentoring.
For more information and to apply, click here

Free Health & Wellbeing Event  

Tuesday 1st November at Camley Street Natural Park: 10am-1pm

Camden Adult Community Learning will be hosting its free annual Health and Wellbeing event in partnership with Camden Libraries and Camley Street Natural Park. Try out art and craft activities, healthy recipes and simple exercises to keep fit. There will also be information about clubs, exhibitions, outdoor activities and support to lose weight and keep healthy.

Cost of Living Crisis Workshops 

Wed 19th Oct 10am-12:30pm via Zoom OR Thurs 20th Oct 10am-12:30pm via Zoom

Citizens Advice Camden are hosting workshops focusing on resources to support Camden residents experiencing financial hardship.

To book a space, contact financialcapabilityproject@camdencabservice.org.uk and include your name, which workshop you would like to attend, your organisation (if applicable) and contact number.

Volunteer Managers Forum  

Tuesday 11th October at 10am: Online Event

Volunteer Centre Camden is hosting a volunteer managers forum to discuss all things related to volunteer management. Participants will be able to decide the topics that are discussed.
To sign up, please click here

Free Healthy Cooking Workshop 

Tuesday 11th October at Castlehaven Centre: 12:30pm-2pm

Join Castlehaven Community Association for a free, hands-on cooking class. Experienced cooking teacher, Antonia, will help attendees cook a delicious, healthy two-course meal on a budget. Each attendee will receive a food parcel and a recipe card to cook the meal at home.
For more information, please email scott@castlehaven.org.uk or call 020 7692 2238

Camden’s Evening and Night-time Community Conversations

Camden Council wants to hear about your evening and night-time experiences in Camden. Drop into one of the following workshops to participate:

Tues 18th Oct at Castlehaven Community Centre: 7pm-9pm

Thurs 27th Oct at St Pancras Community Centre: 6:15pm-8:15pm

Wed 2nd Nov at Covent Garden Community Centre: 2pm-4pm and 6:30pm-8:30pm

Tues 15th Nov at Kiln Theatre: 2pm-5pm

For more information, contact nighttime@camden.gov.uk

Survivors Can Shine – Trustees Needed 

Survivors Can Shine works to bring communities together and change perceptions around abuse; empowering children and young people to speak out, be heard, and be safe.

They are seeking individuals who are passionate about the cause to devote the necessary time, skills and commitment to their growing organisation.

For more information, contact rosa@survivorscanshine.org.uk or call 07956661690

Elfrida Rathbone Camden Vacancy 

Closing date: 30th October

Elfrida Rathbone Camden is seeking a Finance and Office Manager to lead their Finance and Office functions. The post is full-time (35 hours per week). Application is by CV and covering letter.
For more information and to apply, click here

SPCA Vacancy: Director 

Closing date: 22nd October

St Pancras Community Association is looking for a director to lead and guide a highly skilled and motivated team. The goal is to make SPCA a community hub and a centre of excellence which has a positive impact on the lives of local residents.
For more information and to apply, click here

CAWH Vacancy: Keeping Well Together Project Organiser

Closing date: Wednesday 2nd November at 5pm

CAWH is an exciting community organisation which has been awarded funding to support local older people in keeping well and active. They are looking for a motivated and proactive worker with experience of setting up and delivering projects to develop and manage the programme.
For more information and to apply, click here

The Winch: Vacancies 

The Winch is currently hiring for the following positions:

Head of Communities (FT – £40k)

Participation Worker (PT – £28k pro rata)

Play Worker (PT – London Living Wage)

For more information and to apply, please click here

Newsletter Submissions

Please send any information (approximately 50-75 words long) that you would like included in our weekly newsletter to social@vac.org.uk

Home (shine-london.org.uk) – save money on energy bills
https://findfood.camden.gov.uk
Help With the Cost of Living | London City Hall
Free and impartial help with money, backed by the government | MoneyHelper
WISH Plus – Camden Council – Energy efficiency advice and income maximisation checks
Cost of Living Signposting Resource | London Plus
British Gas Energy Trust Grant

Institute of Health Equity Report: Fuel poverty, cold homes and health inequalities 

This report reviews the evidence on both the direct and indirect impacts of fuel poverty and cold homes on health; the effects of inequalities and the relationship between health inequalities and climate change. It makes the case for prioritising reducing fuel poverty through policy suggestions at both the national and local level.
Read the report here

Government Scheme to Cut Energy Bills

A new government scheme will see energy prices for non-domestic energy customers such as businesses, charities and public sector organisations cut – protecting them from rising energy costs. The scheme will cover energy use for 6 months from 1 October 2022 to 31 March 2023, and is in addition to the Energy Price Guarantee for households.
Read more here

Help shape Clean Air Action in Camden 

Camden Council is consulting on a new Clean Air Action Plan which sets out their plan for the next 4 years to clean Camden’s air. Share your thoughts and ideas to shape their projects and policies, and find out how you can help by reducing air pollution and protecting your health.
Learn more here

Addressing Poverty in London:

London Challenge Poverty Week: 17-23 Oct 2022 

London Challenge Poverty Week is coming up soon. It is coordinated by 4in10: London’s Child Poverty Network. Find out more here

London Child Poverty Alliance Summit: 20 Oct 2022

The London Child Poverty Alliance are hosting the London Child Poverty Summit on 20 October. Find out more and book your tickets here

Call for ideas around addressing poverty 

Together with Joseph Rowntree Foundation, New Local has launched a Call for Learning & Ideas to explore local approaches to addressing these challenges. Find out more here

Local Newsletters:

SHAK
Young Camden Foundation (Funding Newsletter)
AWN (sign up)
London Sport (sign up)
Fitzrovia Community Centre
Coram’s Field Community Newsletter (sign up)
CAWH Newsletter
St Pancras Community Association (sign up)
Castlehaven in Bloom (sign up)

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

VAC administered Google Grants
The VAC administered Google Grants scheme is still ongoing.

VAC have been funded by Google to provide up to £300 per quarter for small organisations looking to book one-off spaces to work in or to hold community sessions and training, and up to £600 for the ongoing rent of office and hot desking space.

It is available to small voluntary or community sector organisation with income under £150,000 a year looking to book a venue in Camden.

To find out more, please click here
or get in contact with Ricky at Rsingh@vac.org.uk

Camden Youth Work Grant Funding 

Camden Council is accepting applications for youth work grant funding for 2023-25.

For more information and to apply, click here

ASDA Foundation Grants  

The Asda Foundation supports small, grassroots organisations in several ways throughout the year. Current funding available includes a Cost-of-Living Grant and an Empowering Local Communities Grant.

For more information and to apply, click here

Energy Saving Trust: Energy Redress Fund
Energy Saving Trust has been appointed to distribute payments from companies who may have breached Ofgem rules. Registered Charities, Community Interest Companies, Co-operative Societies and Community Benefit Societies can apply for funds to deliver energy related projects that meet the scheme priorities and benefit people in England, Scotland and Wales.
Learn more here

GLA Funding: Warmer Homes Programme
With energy bills continuing to rise, the Mayor is urging Londoners, local authorities, and community organisations to raise awareness of the Warmer Homes programme with anyone who may be eligible.
The scheme offers free energy efficiency grants of up to £25,000 to households with a residual income of up to £20,000 per year after rent/mortgage and council tax.
Learn more here

To re-discover funding removed from this list, please see our newsletter archive here

Other available funders include:

• Camden Giving
• Grants Online
• My Funding Central
• Idox Camden 4 Community
• VAC main funding page

Link UP London’s Flash Consulting: Digital Marketing 
Wednesday 19th October on Zoom: 6-7:30pm
The importance of digital communications could not be denied during the pandemic and, 2 years on, Social Good Organisations are continuing to develop their digital growth.
With a drive to improve but with limited funding available for support, the event provides a free 1-1 session with a digital expert.
To sign up, please click here

Pascal Theatre Company: Free workshop for 13-16 year-old girls 
Saturday 8th October near Euston Station: 2.30-4.30pm
Pascal Theatre Company invites girls aged 13-16 to a workshop on Saturday 8 October to share experiences of, and opinions on, expectations of girls. The event celebrates The Day of the Girl Child (11th October).
The workshop will be led by trained, DBS-checked professionals. Refreshments provided.
For more information and to sign up, contact sally@pascal-theatre.com 

KOVE: Annual General Meeting 

Thursday 13th October at Mazenod Social Club: 1.30-3.30pm

Come and join KOVE at their Annual General Meeting for the launch of KOVE@20 – a celebration of 20 years of campaigns and activities. The guest speaker is Councillor Pat Callaghan, Deputy Leader, Camden Council.
For more information, contact Lynda Stuart on 07773 267505 or John Miles on 07817 424356.

North London Waste Authority’s New Waste Prevention Plan  

Mon 10th Oct at Islington Climate Centre: 2–4:15pm

Thurs 27th Oct via Microsoft Teams: 5:30–7:45pm

Camden Council is hosting an engagement session to inform and develop North London Waste Authority’s new Waste Prevention Plan for 2022-25. Stakeholders will meet NLWA and hear about the draft Plan, exchange ideas, share interests, and discuss ways to get involved going forward.
To sign up, please click here

The “B” Word Series Events 

Every Wednesday from 5th October at the London Irish Centre.

The series of events hosted by IamI includes the Spoken Word sessions ‘Enough Words’. Team up with facilitators to work towards producing your own piece and perform live to family and friends. The Melanin Rising Workshop explores the ingredients, special properties and the making of skin cream.
Book your space here

Free Health & Well-being Opportunities for Adults in Camden
In response to the current cost of living crisis, Castlehaven Community Association has launched a brand new programme of free activities and workshops, providing adults in Camden with free access to health & well-being activities and learning opportunities.
From weekly Self Defence, Pilates, Mindfulness & Boxercise sessions to one-off workshops such as Foraging, and CV Writing, we have opportunities for everyone to cultivate healthy habits
For more information please click here

VAC is looking for an SEO Volunteer
VAC has gone through the process of developing a brand proposition, values and redesigning our website, but we now need some assistance to ensure our website is properly optimised so that we can better reach those in Camden who are looking for our help.
We are looking for an expert SEO volunteer who can help VAC handle SEO for our website so its pages are represented accurately in search engines, presenting information in ways that make it easier to find the organisation.
For more information please click here

Volunteering with VAC! Join our Community Links Team
Are you able to commit to at least 2 hours per week and interested in supporting people in your community to access health and wellbeing services?

Community Links Volunteers are a part of the Care Navigation and Social Prescribing Service in Camden. They support social prescribing in a variety of ways including signposting residents to community-based activities, helping with referrals, motivating users to connect with new interests and activities, accompanying residents to appointments and introducing them to a range of different opportunities in Camden.

For more info and to apply, please click here
Or contact Mandira Manandhar on mmanandhar@vac.org.uk or 020 7284 6573

Social Prescribers Innovators Programme  
A new initiative is being delivered by the Camden Care Navigation and Social Prescribing Service, hosted by Age UK Camden (AUC) and Voluntary Action Camden.
The project aims to develop volunteering within the service as a way to help retain existing social prescribers and to support successful recruitment to new social prescriber roles.
Contact Mandira at mmanandhar@vac.org.uk if you are interested in volunteering on this new venture.

Free Specialty Coffee Traineeship with Well Grounded 

Get free training, accreditations, work experience and job opportunities in coffee on an 8-week Alpro-sponsored programme this October.

You’ll learn everything you need to be a barista, take on a 4-week work placement and go into work in the coffee industry.

To apply, please contact info@wellgroundedjobs.co.uk

Kilburn Older Voices Exchange vacancy: Coordinator
Closing date: 17th October
KOVE are looking for someone with sound administrative skills and a knowledge of charity organisation to support their activities and help develop a more age-friendly Kilburn. You’ll need to work freelance, flexibly, from home for two days a week. A warm-hearted commitment to the full citizenship of all older people is essential.

To view the full job description please click here
The application process starts with an informal phone conversation with the former coordinator, Mel Wright. To apply for this role, please contact: melwillwright@gmail.com

Symptoms can include, but are not limited to: exhaustion, memory or concentrations issues, breathlessness, persistent headaches and muscle aches, chest tightness, palpitations, dizziness and sleep disturbance.
As a token of appreciation there is a £15 shopping voucher available for participation.

The Community Links team at VAC can also assist Camden residents with access to the long covid clinic at UCLH.
For further information please contact Nasrin at nrashid@vac.org.uk or Donna Clutterbuck at LongCovid@soton.ac.uk or on 07721520243

Ethical Property Foundation: Energy Efficiency Service 
The Ethical Property Foundation is offering a consultancy service for charities looking to reduce their energy bill costs and ensure that their property improvements are cost effective.
For more information, contact simon.taylor@ethicalproperty.org.uk

Sadler’s Wells Tickets Offer for Tango After Dark 

Sadler’s Wells is offering £12 tickets for performances of Tango After Dark from Tue 11th to Sat 22nd Oct. Please note that this offer must be booked by Sun 9th Oct.
To book your £12 tickets, click here and enter the promo code: BID12

Dog Control Public Spaces Protection Order: Consultation 

Camden Council is considering new measures to tackle issues around antisocial behaviour associated with irresponsible dog owners in the area.
Find out more and have your say here

LIFT: Affordable Coworking Spaces 

LIFT can help entrepreneurs from underrepresented backgrounds in Camden, Islington, Hackney and Tower Hamlets to access co-working space, no matter your financial situation. This includes people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, women, lone parents and people with disabilities, who are underrepresented in these industry sectors.
For more information, contact lift.futures@islington.gov.uk

Camden Children’s Services BSL Video

Camden Council has published its first video explaining Camden’s children’s services and the support available to families in the borough in British Sign Language (BSL). The video, which features signing interpreters as well as full English subtitles, gives a detailed summary of services and support available for children and families, including Children in Need, Early Help and Child Protection services.
Watch the video here

Startup School for Seniors 

Advantages of Age is offering online courses for Londoners aged 50+ looking to start their own businesses.

The course is delivered online by entrepreneur Suzanne Noble and business coach Mark Elliott. They create a fun, interactive learning experience and support you to progress week by week. Fully sponsored places are available to residents of London.

Register your place on the next available course here.

Canopy: Looking for Partner Organisations 

Canopy is looking for a partner organisation who are working with young people, based in Camden and interested in the environment. They have a project funded by the National Lottery Community Fund and are looking for a partner to deliver with them in Spring/Summer 2023.
For more information, please contact jake@canopy.si.

Past Voluntary Action Forums: Resources

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

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