Category: Newsletter

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

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

Learn more here

On our website we also hold a huge source of continual updated funding information, much more than we could ever fit here!

These current funding opportunities are split into 24 different categories to help you and your organisation find the local or national funding that is right for you.

We are also on-hand to provide help with the application, should you need it.

Learn more, or browse these funds here

VAC vacancy: WordPress Technical Consultant – Ad Hoc Opportunity
We are looking for a freelance consultant who can help the IT and Digital Manager with technical troubleshooting and routine maintenance jobs. This will be on an ad-hoc basis and would probably only require a couple of hours support each month, although the support requested would only be as and when needed, not a regular commitment. The work would be payable by invoice, based on an hourly or daily rate basis.

To find out more, please click here

Scams Prevention & Support Awareness from Age UK Camden
Age UK Camden are delivering Scams Prevention & Support Awareness across Camden through group presentations or one-to-one Scams Awareness Sessions.
They are able advise on different types of scams and offer tips on staying safe. The service is available to Camden residents aged 50+.
If this is of interest to you or your group please email:
ann-marie.carrol@ageukcamden.org.uk 
and/or paul.webley@ageukcamden.org.uk to arrange a suitable date and time that works for you.

Warm space at Lauderdale House
Lauderdale House is opening its doors this winter to anyone in search of a warm space. There will be tables set up for studying, free wifi and a quiet craft area.
The sessions run until 28 March, and take place on Tuesdays (3.30pm – 7.30pm) and Saturdays (10am – 2pm). No need to book in advance!
Everyone is welcome, but please note under 15s must be accompanied by a parent or older sibling aged 18+

To learn more, please click here

New Warm Spaces Initiative
Castlehaven Community Association has teamed up with The Pirate Castle and the London Irish Centre to provide free hot soup, warm spaces, activities, and one-to-one advice sessions for the local community

To find out more, please click here

Introductory Networking Session
Locality are opening their Corsham Street office to community groups led by racialised people, with two sessions coming up in February and May. This will be an in-person, half-day offer to help increase the capacity for work around racial justice in London.
This session will be a chance to connect with others and find out what the London Spotlight programme has to offer.

Please consider coming along to this half-day in Old Street on 22nd February from 10am-1pm or contact liba.ravindran@locality.org.uk.

Roj Emergency Relief Campaign
Roj Women’s Association are launching an Emergency Relief Campaign to support civil society organizations that are providing immediate help and support to the people affected by the earthquakes in Turkey.
To support those in need please send your contribution directly to the bank account: IBAN: GB32 BUKB 2044 8620 4203 87 SWIFTBIC BUKBGB22 or by using this PayPal link
To learn more about Roj Women’s Association, please click here

Salsa & DJ Party: SPCA Fundraising Event
Saturday 11th March: 7pm – 10.45pm at St Pancras Community Association
Join us for a night of Salsa dancing with Pat M’Bella E followed by DJ Chrystilize playing all your favourite dance tunes!
This fundraising is for our Community Kitchen & Warm Space, which is thriving and we need to keep it going. We can do this with your help!
There are limited tickets at the door, so book now!

Free Whiteboard available
Elfrida Rathbone Camden has an unwanted, unopened 150 cm x 100 cm (WxH) Whiteboard Drywipe Magnetic with Pen Tray and Aluminium Trim, which costs £81.34 from Amazon. We are happy to give it away to free to a Camden charity that can collect it.
Please email info@elfridacamden.org.uk if you are interested.

Free Community Festival: “Zen in Mind”
Thursday 16th February:  12pm-5pm
There is a free Community Festival at Likewise in Swiss Cottage, 8 Fairhazel Gardens, London, NW6 3SG “Zen in Mind”
The Zen Project and Mind in Camden bring to you one of a series of 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 our big yellow American school bus and take part in one of our activities to help create some calm and ease anxiety. We have something for everyone.
No need to book – just turn up.
For more information, please click here

Charity Commission’s social media guidance
You may have seen the draft Charity Commission social media guidance, which was published earlier this week. The aim of the guidance is to help trustees develop ‘appropriate shared understanding of the charity’s use of social media and the particular risks it can bring,’ and to encourage charities to, ‘adopt a policy on social media as a way to set their charity’s approach.’
This article is a response and contains all the information needed to learn more

Let me know (LMK) is looking for a new Chief Executive
Closing date: 2nd March
Let Me Know (LMK) is a London-based education charity working with young people to prevent domestic violence, relationship abuse and sexual assault. We are led by survivors, parents and activists and we’re committed to creating a world where domestic violence, relationship abuse and sexual assault no longer exist, and where young people can build happy lives through healthy relationships.
This is an exciting opportunity to succeed our two co-founders and become LMK’s first Chief Executive.You’ll oversee our scaling-up journey, ensuring we’re in great shape for a strong future.

To learn more, please click here

Queen’s Crescent Community Association (QCCA) is recruiting a part-time food-bank co-ordinator.
Last year QCCA regularly supported around 100 people with our largely volunteer-led service. Due to increased demand because of the cost-of-living crisis, we now need someone to run it for larger numbers (and help us nurture the advice and guidance service that runs alongside). The role is for 16 hours a week, at £15 per hour.

Email jobs@qcca.org.uk or find our more here

Vacancy: Treasurer for Gospel Oak Action Link Youth Club (GOAL YC)
GOAL YC is seeking to appoint a new Honorary Treasurer to play a key role in supporting our activities.
We are a volunteer-led charity providing a range of free activities for young people working in partnership with Queen’s Crescent Community Association.

This is a voluntary post and we especially welcome local applications so please contact (even for just an informal chat to see if it might suit you) our chair of Trustees Adrian Mars on adrian@adrianmars.com or Dinah Gallop, our current Treasurer on dinah.gallop@blueyonder.co.uk who can also provide more details about the position.

Single Homeless Project are recruiting peer mentors
Closing date: 22nd February
Single Homeless Project are recruiting peer mentors for projects in Camden, Islington and Westminster – lived experience of substance use, mental health, homelessness or an offending history is essential.

For further details and an application pack please contact peermentoring@shp.org.uk

Free 6 Week Media Training for young London residents at SKY TV Campus
Closing date: Tuesday 21st February
At MAMA Youth Program we are looking for younger people (18-30) interested in a career in the media industry. Through this 6-week intensive digital media training at Sky TV Campus, they will have lunch and travel expenses provided as well as lessons in production that grant instant industry connections.
To learn more and apply, please click here

Read about some of MAMA Youth Project’s success stories here

Job opportunity (Students’ Union UCL)
Closing date: 17th February
Passionate about collaborative working? Want to be the one who brings Voluntary & Community sector views and realities into student research?
The Community Research Initiative is offering a full time, 12-month post to create a Community Research Office and build a network for grassroots and small non-profits to enable them to collaborate with UCL students.
Informal info sessions available on Monday 13th February

Learn more and apply here

Pilates Tutor Wanted to Inspire Local People
Castlehaven Community Association is looking for qualified tutors to deliver weekly Pilates and Creative Writing sessions to the local Camden community. Classes need to be delivered within work hours on weekdays. If you, or someone you know, is interested in empowering local people to reach their full potential, please email scott@castlehaven.org.uk

Holloway Neighbourhood Group vacancy: Chief Executive
Holloway Neighbourhood Group runs a well-established mental health service (the Stress Project) and a busy community centre (the Old Fire Station). We are seeking an experienced charity manager as our new Chief Executive to take responsibility for fundraising, financial management, strategic planning, and leading a committed and experienced team of staff and volunteers.

To learn more 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

VAC Cost-of-Living Crisis Resource
VAC recognises that the cost-of-living crisis is a huge concern for families, businesses, and the Voluntary Community Sector.

We are collating information and resources to help community groups and residents in Camden keep up to date as they navigate through the crisis. To find out more, click here

Local Newsletters:

SHAK
Young Camden Foundation (Funding Newsletter)
Young Camden Foundation (Events and Training 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)
Abbey Community Centre Newsletter
Heath Hands
UCL Volunteering Service Newsletter (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 Community Vaccine Project: Round 2
VAC and the C4 Consortium are inviting community groups and organisations in Camden, including unincorporated associations, to design new and expand existing initiatives to encourage vaccine take-up in the borough. This includes tackling misinformation surrounding the COVID-19 vaccine and other vaccine programmes.
*Please note: while this fund is officially closed, we are still happy to receive applications
If you are interested in applying for this funding, or would just like to find out more, please click here

Migrant Advice and Support Fund
Closing date: Monday 27 February at 9am
The Mayor of London is offering funding to frontline organisations providing specialist advice and/or holistic support to migrant Londoners.
Learn more here

Love Camden: Community Festival Funding 

Closing date: 28th February 2023

Camden Council are delighted to announce that they are opening funding applications for local Community Festivals and Events. Applications are welcome for grants of £200 to £2,000.

Learn more here

Building Strong Communities Fund
Round Three of the Building Strong Communities Fund is now open to receive applications until 1pm on Monday 13 March 2023.

The total funding pot is £200,000 and is made up of microgrants of between £1k to £6k. Microgrants are available for equity led groups with an annual turnover of £0 to £50k to support communities most impacted by Covid-19.

To learn more and apply, please click 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

VAC Free Safeguarding Training Courses 

What better way to start the new year than refreshing your organisation’s essential safeguarding skills?

Safeguarding Advanced: Developing Knowledge and Understanding (in-person) 

Wednesday 22nd March at Saint Pancras Community Association: 9:30am – 3:30pm

Aimed at increasing existing safeguarding knowledge for those who have had no safeguarding training in the last two years and need a refresher.

Designed for volunteers, supplementary schools, VCS groups and organisations delivering services to under 18’s and their families in Camden. Lunch and refreshments provided.

To register your place, or for more information, contact Dianne Carlton-Ogunyemi, VAC Community Safeguarding Lead at dogunyemi@vac.org.uk

Free family nature half term activities on Hampstead Heath
Join Heath Hands for a free family nature walk tomorrow at 10am and drop in nature activities from 1-3pm – find out more here

And if your community or youth group would like a free activity on the Heath or in Kenwood during half-term (e.g. nature crafts, fire lighting, bird watching etc.) do get in touch at info@heath-hands.org.uk

The Royal Free Charity and UCLH online talks for 16-25 year olds
The Royal Free Charity are collaborating with UCLH to host a series of online talks ‘Alternative Pathways into the NHS’, which are designed for 16-25 year olds and about the many different careers available in the NHS.
The talks will shed light on a range of careers in the NHS, beyond just medicine and nursing, and the first will take place on 14th February with the Head of Apprenticeships at the Royal Free Hospital, Paul Marijetic.

If you are interested in attending, please sign up here

New Make Every Contact Count (MECC) Courses available
New dates have been added for the Cost of Living Crisis and MECC course, and the Good Conversations for MECC course throughout February and March, both of which will help you learn how to use day to day interactions to better support residents who may be struggling.

Courses are free to staff working in Camden and Islington, to book a place click here

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.

Guaranteed jobs in coffee through Well Grounded course
Well Grounded’s next free 8-week coffee traineeship has a guaranteed job for all those who complete the course. It includes technical barista skills and accreditation, employability training, and a paid work placement.

The course will begin on 21st February, with in-person training taking place at their East London Academy (but is open to Londoners from any borough).

Contact info@wellgroundedjobs.co.uk for more information or here

Vacancies at Mind in Camden:
Community Mental Health Recovery Support Worker
To find out more please click here or email recruitment@mindincamden.org.uk

Mental Health Link Worker
To find out more please click here or email recruitment@mindincamden.org.uk

Community Mental Health Welfare Rights Development Worker
To find out more please click here or email recruitment@mindincamden.org.uk

LDN London: Trustee Vacancy 

Learning Disability Network London is proud to have been supporting learning disabled Londoners for over 60 years. They are looking for a new Trustee with the enthusiasm, creativity and commitment to join their board of Trustees.

Learn more here

Education Gardener and Coordinator Vacancy 

Closing date: Monday 13th Feb at 9am

Global Generation is looking for someone who is passionate about involving the community in connecting to nature and gardening. As the Education Gardener and Coordinator, you will be responsible for engaging local children, young people, families and volunteers in Global Generation’s outdoor learning projects.

Learn more here

Warm Hub at West Hampstead Community Centre
West Hampstead Community Centre offers a free warm space and a hot bowl of soup to anyone who needs it.
They are located on 17 Dornfell Street, NW6 1QN. The Warm Hub is open Monday to Thursday between 12:00 and 14:00. Everyone is welcome.
The Warm Hub is sponsored by Camden Council and The Hampstead Wells & Campden Trust

Free Immigration Law Advice Clinic 

Weds 15th Feb at St Pancras Community Association: 2-4:30pm

An immigration solicitor from The University of Westminster will deliver a short presentation on an aspect of immigration law and follow with a Q&A session. Come with your questions about immigration and get advice. No registration necessary

Looking for a previous newsletter entry? Find it in our archive here

Find presentations, recordings and resources from past forums here

Our mailing address is:
Greenwood Centre, Greenwood Place, London, NW5 1LB

Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list.

Membership is free, click on the link box above and sign up today

VAC Consultancy Service
Contact us today if you need advice or support to develop any aspect of your established or aspiring voluntary and community sector organisation.

Learn more here

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

January was another full month with the launch of our Consultancy Service, our community projects – Community Links and Cultural Advocacy as well as providing Safeguarding training – continuing their busy schedules and the consideration of our future plans.

We have written about this in more detail in our latest update and if you would like to learn more about what VAC has been up to, please click here

Free family nature half term activities on Hampstead Heath
Join Heath Hands for a free family nature walk on Saturday 11th February at 10am and drop in nature activities on the 11th from 1-3pm – find out more here

And if your community or youth group would like a free activity on the Heath or in Kenwood during half-term (e.g. nature crafts, fire lighting, bird watching etc.) do get in touch at info@heath-hands.org.uk

The Royal Free Charity and UCLH online talks for 16-18 year olds
The Royal Free Charity are collaborating with UCLH to host a series of online talks ‘Alternative Pathways into the NHS’, which are designed for 16-18 year olds and about the many different careers available in the NHS.
The talks will shed light on a range of careers in the NHS, beyond just medicine and nursing, and the first will take place on 14th February with the Head of Apprenticeships at the Royal Free Hospital, Paul Marijetic.

If you are interested in attending, please sign up here

Climate event at Phoenix Court
7th February: 2pm – 5pm

Phoenix Court regularly host community days where we bring together neighbouring organisations and close partners to workshop how we can collectively respond to live global issues with a local lens.
At this event we plan to spend time discussing the Climate crisis. We’d like to bring together people who have live projects responding to the crisis to hear about the work they are doing and we will facilitate breakout sessions to get input from people who we know will have thoughtful and relevant insights.

If you are able to attend please RSVP to rachel@phoenixcourt.co, and we’ll share more details next week.

New Make Every Contact Count (MECC) Courses available
New dates have been added for the Cost of Living Crisis and MECC course, and the Good Conversations for MECC course throughout February and March, both of which will help you learn how to use day to day interactions to better support residents who may be struggling.

Courses are free to staff working in Camden and Islington, to book a place click here

Warm Hub at West Hampstead Community Centre
West Hampstead Community Centre offers a free warm space and a hot bowl of soup to anyone who needs it.
They are located on 17 Dornfell Street, NW6 1QN. The Warm Hub is open Monday to Thursday between 12:00 and 14:00. Everyone is welcome.
The Warm Hub is sponsored by Camden Council and The Hampstead Wells & Campden Trust

Guaranteed jobs in coffee through Well Grounded course
Well Grounded’s next free 8-week coffee traineeship has a guaranteed job for all those who complete the course. It includes technical barista skills and accreditation, employability training, and a paid work placement.

The course will begin on 21st February, with in-person training taking place at their East London Academy (but is open to Londoners from any borough).

Contact info@wellgroundedjobs.co.uk for more information or here

Vacancies at Mind in Camden:
Community Mental Health Recovery Support Worker
To find out more please click here or email recruitment@mindincamden.org.uk

Mental Health Link Worker
To find out more please click here or email recruitment@mindincamden.org.uk

Community Mental Health Welfare Rights Development Worker
To find out more please click here or email recruitment@mindincamden.org.uk

Resources Team Assistant
To find out more please click here or phone 020 7911 0822 (24hrs), or email recruitment@mindincamden.org.uk

Alliance Network CMS Administrator
To find out more please click here or phone 020 7911 0822 (24hrs), or email recruitment@mindincamden.org.uk

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

VAC Cost-of-Living Crisis Resource
VAC recognises that the cost-of-living crisis is a huge concern for families, businesses, and the Voluntary Community Sector.

We are collating information and resources to help community groups and residents in Camden navigate through the crisis. To find out more, click here

Energy Bills Discount Scheme 

The Government has announced a new Energy Bills Discount Scheme (EBDS) to run from 1 April 2023 for eligible non-domestic consumers in Great Britain and Northern Ireland. The scheme is available to all non-domestic contracts, including voluntary sector organisations and charities. The discount will be automatically applied.

Learn more here

Proposed Updates to the Euston Area Plan 

Camden Council is consulting on proposed updates to the Euston Area Plan (EAP) – a planning document that will help to shape the future of the Euston area. The Council wants to hear your views on the proposed updates to the EAP. You can review the suggested changes and share your views online via the Council’s Commonplace website here

Local Newsletters:

SHAK
Young Camden Foundation (Funding Newsletter)
Young Camden Foundation (Events and Training 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)
Abbey Community Centre Newsletter
Heath Hands
UCL Volunteering Service Newsletter (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 Community Vaccine Project: Round 2

VAC and the C4 Consortium are inviting community groups and organisations in Camden, including unincorporated associations, to design new and expand existing initiatives to encourage vaccine take-up in the borough. This includes tackling misinformation surrounding the COVID-19 vaccine and other vaccine programmes.

If you are interested in applying for this funding, or would just like to find out more, please click here

Migrant Advice and Support Fund
Closing date: Monday 27 February at 9am
The Mayor of London is offering funding to frontline organisations providing specialist advice and/or holistic support to migrant Londoners.
Learn more here

Love Camden: Community Festival Funding 

Closing date: 28th February 2023

Camden Council are delighted to announce that they are opening funding applications for local Community Festivals and Events. Applications are welcome for grants of £200 to £2,000.

Learn more here

Building Strong Communities Fund 

Closing date: 13th March 2023

The Mayor of London is offering funding for London equity-led voluntary and community sector organisations to enable communities to shape their recovery from COVID-19, through community-led projects that help meet certain outcomes.

Learn more here

London Community Energy Fund 

Closing date: 5th February 2023

The London Community Energy Fund provides much-needed support to get community energy projects up and running and deployed faster to reboot the economy and benefit hard-hit communities.

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

VAC Free Safeguarding Training Courses 

What better way to start the new year than refreshing your organisation’s essential safeguarding skills?

VAC is offering 2 FREE safeguarding training sessions over the coming months:

Virtual Introduction to Safer Recruitment for Small Organisations and Community Groups 

Tuesday 21st February 2023: 10am – 11:30am

Register your place here

Safeguarding Advanced: Developing Knowledge and Understanding (in-person) 

Wednesday 22nd March at Saint Pancras Community Association: 9:30am – 3:30pm

Aimed at increasing existing safeguarding knowledge for those who have had no safeguarding training in the last two years and need a refresher.

Designed for volunteers, supplementary schools, VCS groups and organisations delivering services to under 18’s and their families in Camden. Lunch and refreshments provided.

To register your place, or for more information, contact Dianne Carlton-Ogunyemi, VAC Community Safeguarding Lead at dogunyemi@vac.org.uk

SPCA Volunteer Fest 

Thurs 2nd March: 11am – 1pm at St Pancras Community Association

Get the experience you need to further or start your career by volunteering with the SPCA. Come to the Volunteer Fest this March to hear from volunteers about the benefits of their roles at the centre, from meeting new people to upskilling in the area they’re interested in.

Register your place here

Volunteer Managers’ Forum  

Tuesday 28th Feb at 2pm: Online

Volunteer Centre Camden is hosting a Volunteer Managers’ Forum. Participants will benefit from peer support and networking and can choose the topics to discuss.

Register your place here

LIFT: Intro to Coding Course 

Application closing date: 5th February 2023

LIFT Intro to Coding is a 6-week beginner’s programme designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to start a career in the thriving world of software development. No prior coding experience is needed. You will gain core skills in software development and build a portfolio to show to prospective employers.

Find out more here

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.

SPCA Community Café Manager Vacancy (PT) 

Manage and run our Community Café and team of volunteers and help promote it within the community by arranging activities within the café setting.

Our new Community Café will provide a warm space, healthy eating options at a low cost, as well as a range of other community benefits such as reduced social isolation and skills development.

Learn more here

LDN London: Trustee Vacancy 

Learning Disability Network London is proud to have been supporting learning disabled Londoners for over 60 years. They are looking for a new Trustee with the enthusiasm, creativity and commitment to join their board of Trustees.

Learn more here

Education Gardener and Coordinator Vacancy 

Closing date: Monday 13th Feb at 9am

Global Generation is looking for someone who is passionate about involving the community in connecting to nature and gardening. As the Education Gardener and Coordinator, you will be responsible for engaging local children, young people, families and volunteers in Global Generation’s outdoor learning projects.

Learn more here

Long Covid Survey
The Community Links team at VAC are working with the University of Southampton to facilitate a study into Long Covid. If you had, or think you had, Covid 3 or more months ago and yet continue to experience symptoms that are not explained by any other health conditions, the study would like to talk to you about your experiences.

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, a £25 shopping voucher is 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 call/text  “Long Covid Research’’ on 07721520243.

Camden Youth Safety Multimedia Competition

This annual competition aims to raise awareness of the issues affecting the safety of young people in Camden. It is part of Camden Youth Safety Week, which will be held this summer. Up to 10 organisations will receive a maximum of £500 each to develop their multimedia project.

Camden Council invites expressions of interest for creative or multimedia projects, based on the theme of ‘Keeping Children and Young People in Camden Safe’, before 27th February.

Learn more here

Free Immigration Law Advice Clinic 

Weds 15th Feb at St Pancras Community Association: 2-4:30pm

An immigration solicitor from The University of Westminster will deliver a short presentation on an aspect of immigration law and follow with a Q&A session. Come with your questions about immigration and get advice. No registration necessary.

Coram’s Fields: Nursery Spaces Available 

Places are still available at Coram’s Fields Nursery for children starting this year. The nursery provides full-day childcare for up to 36 children aged 2-5 years old. The team delivers high-quality childcare with access to their seven-acre park.

Learn more here

Camden Council: Free Co-Working Space 

Camden Council has partnered with LABS to offer up to 10 free co-working spaces to start-ups, SMEs and established businesses in Camden. The aim of this scheme is to support growth and break down one of the barriers between business owners and their goals.

Learn more and apply here

Youth Nature Wellbeing Project on Hampstead Heath 

Heath Hands is launching a pilot project inviting young people aged 13-16 who struggle with school attendance to take part in nature activities on Hampstead Heath. The new project aims to promote mental wellbeing and practical skills through a combination of hands-on conservation work, nature art activities and forest-school style experiences. Sessions will run in February/March 2023.

Learn more here

Looking for a previous newsletter entry? Find it in our archive here

Find presentations, recordings and resources from past forums here

Our mailing address is:
Greenwood Centre, Greenwood Place, London, NW5 1LB

Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list.

Membership is free, click on the link box above and sign up today

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

VAC Consultancy Service 

Are you looking for expert support and advice for your Camden VCS organisation? The VAC Consultancy Service can offer help in the following areas:

• Grant and funding applications.

• Governance and policies.

• Volunteer recruitment and management.

• Building connections and influence.

And much more! If you have a question, we can help you find the answer you need.

Learn more and apply for support here

Camden Youth Safety Multimedia Competition

This annual competition aims to raise awareness of the issues affecting the safety of young people in Camden. It is part of Camden Youth Safety Week, which will be held this summer. Up to 10 organisations will receive a maximum of £500 each to develop their multimedia project.

Camden Council invites expressions of interest for creative or multimedia projects, based on the theme of ‘Keeping Children and Young People in Camden Safe’, before 27th February.

Learn more here

Free Immigration Law Advice Clinic 

Weds 15th Feb at St Pancras Community Association: 2-4:30pm

An immigration solicitor from The University of Westminster will deliver a short presentation on an aspect of immigration law and follow with a Q&A session. Come with your questions about immigration and get advice. No registration necessary.

Warm Hub at West Hampstead Community Centre 

West Hampstead Community Centre offers a free warm space to anyone who needs it. They are located on 17 Dornfell Street, NW6 1QN. The Warm Hub is open Monday to Thursday between 12:00 and 14:00. Everyone is welcome.

Remembering Dr Beryl Gilroy 

Friday 3rd Feb: 7:30pm
The Community Association for West Hampstead is hosting a Zoom talk about the first Black Headteacher at West Hampstead Primary School. Darla Jane Gilroy tells the story of her mother, Beryl Gilroy, pioneering teacher, writer, psychotherapist and Camden’s first black headteacher, drawing on her unique memoir, ‘Black Teacher’.

Register your place here

Stratford East Theatre Ticket Offer 

2 for 1 tickets are available for How Not To Drown, the true story of 11-year-old unaccompanied asylum seeker Dritan Kastrati. The offer is valid for Band A and Band B tickets for performances on Thurs 26, Fri 27 and Sat 28 Jan.

To claim this offer, click here and enter promo code THICKSKIN241 at checkout.

Camden Council: Free Co-Working Space 

Camden Council has partnered with LABS to offer up to 10 free co-working spaces to start-ups, SMEs and established businesses in Camden. The aim of this scheme is to support growth and break down one of the barriers between business owners and their goals.

Learn more and apply here

SPCA Volunteer Fest 

Thurs 2nd March: 11am – 1pm at St Pancras Community Association

Get the experience you need to further or start your career by volunteering with the SPCA. Come to the Volunteer Fest this March to hear from volunteers about the benefits of their roles at the centre, from meeting new people to upskilling in the area they’re interested in.

Register your place here

Coram’s Fields: Nursery Spaces Available 

Places are still available at Coram’s Fields Nursery for children starting this year. The nursery provides full-day childcare for up to 36 children aged 2-5 years old. The team delivers high-quality childcare with access to their seven-acre park.

Learn more here

Community Café Manager Vacancy (PT) 

Manage and run our Community Café and team of volunteers and help promote it within the community by arranging activities within the café setting.

Our new Community Café will provide a warm space, healthy eating options at a low cost, as well as a range of other community benefits such as reduced social isolation and skills development.

Learn more 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

VAC Cost-of-Living Crisis Resource
VAC recognises that the cost-of-living crisis is a huge concern for families, businesses, and the Voluntary Community Sector.

We are collating information and resources to help community groups and residents in Camden navigate through the crisis. To find out more, click here

Energy Bills Discount Scheme 

The Government has announced a new Energy Bills Discount Scheme (EBDS) to run from 1 April 2023 for eligible non-domestic consumers in Great Britain and Northern Ireland. The scheme is available to all non-domestic contracts, including voluntary sector organisations and charities. The discount will be automatically applied.

Learn more here

Proposed Updates to the Euston Area Plan 

Camden Council is consulting on proposed updates to the Euston Area Plan (EAP) – a planning document that will help to shape the future of the Euston area. The Council wants to hear your views on the proposed updates to the EAP. You can review the suggested changes and share your views online via the Council’s Commonplace website here

Local Newsletters:

SHAK
Young Camden Foundation (Funding Newsletter)
Young Camden Foundation (Events and Training 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)
Abbey Community Centre Newsletter
Heath Hands
UCL Volunteering Service Newsletter (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 Community Vaccine Project: Round 2

VAC and the C4 Consortium are inviting community groups and organisations in Camden, including unincorporated associations, to design new and expand existing initiatives to encourage vaccine take-up in the borough. This includes tackling misinformation surrounding the COVID-19 vaccine and other vaccine programmes.

If you are interested in applying for this funding, or would just like to find out more, please click here

Migrant Advice and Support Fund
Closing date: Monday 27 February at 9am
The Mayor of London is offering funding to frontline organisations providing specialist advice and/or holistic support to migrant Londoners.
Learn more here

Sports England: Small Grants Programme 

The Small Grants Programme seeks to develop opportunities for communities to get more people physically active. New projects will be supported through providing National Lottery funding of between £300 and £15,000.

Learn more here

YCF Winter Community Fund 

Young Camden Foundation’s Winter Community Fund aims to support children and young people in Camden during winter 2022/23. In January 2023, YCF is reopening this fund on a rolling basis, with a focus on funding short projects during the February half term.

Learn more here

Love Camden: Community Festival Funding 

Closing date: 28th February 2023

Camden Council are delighted to announce that they are opening funding applications for local Community Festivals and Events. Applications are welcome for grants of £200 to £2,000.

Learn more here

Building Strong Communities Fund 

Closing date: 13th March 2023

The Mayor of London is offering funding for London equity-led voluntary and community sector organisations to enable communities to shape their recovery from COVID-19, through community-led projects that help meet certain outcomes.

Learn more here

London Community Energy Fund 

Closing date: 5th February 2023

The London Community Energy Fund provides much-needed support to get community energy projects up and running and deployed faster to reboot the economy and benefit hard-hit communities.

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

VAC Free Safeguarding Training Courses 

What better way to start the new year than refreshing your organisation’s essential safeguarding skills?

VAC is offering 2 FREE safeguarding training sessions over the coming months:

Virtual Introduction to Safer Recruitment for Small Organisations and Community Groups 

Tuesday 21st February 2023: 10am – 11:30am

Register your place here

Safeguarding Advanced: Developing Knowledge and Understanding (in-person) 

Wednesday 22nd March at Saint Pancras Community Association: 9:30am – 3:30pm

Aimed at increasing existing safeguarding knowledge for those who have had no safeguarding training in the last two years and need a refresher.

Designed for volunteers, supplementary schools, VCS groups and organisations delivering services to under 18’s and their families in Camden. Lunch and refreshments provided.

To register your place, or for more information, contact Dianne Carlton-Ogunyemi, VAC Community Safeguarding Lead at dogunyemi@vac.org.uk

Volunteer Managers’ Forum  

Tuesday 28th Feb at 2pm: Online

Volunteer Centre Camden is hosting a Volunteer Managers’ Forum. Participants will benefit from peer support and networking and can choose the topics to discuss.

Register your place here

Camden & Islington Volunteering Fair

Thursday 2nd Feb at 12.30pm: Online

Want to volunteer in Camden and Islington? Volunteer Centre Camden and Volunteer Centre Islington are hosting a free, online volunteering fair. Participants can meet organisations currently recruiting volunteers, who will ‘pitch’ their volunteering roles in a Dragon’s Den style.

Register your place here

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.

LDN London: Trustee Vacancy 

Learning Disability Network London is proud to have been supporting learning disabled Londoners for over 60 years. They are looking for a new Trustee with the enthusiasm, creativity and commitment to join their board of Trustees.

Learn more here

Education Gardener and Coordinator Vacancy 

Closing date: Monday 13th Feb at 9am

Global Generation is looking for someone who is passionate about involving the community in connecting to nature and gardening. As the Education Gardener and Coordinator, you will be responsible for engaging local children, young people, families and volunteers in Global Generation’s outdoor learning projects.

Learn more here

Long Covid Survey
The Community Links team at VAC are working with the University of Southampton to facilitate a study into Long Covid. If you had, or think you had, Covid 3 or more months ago and yet continue to experience symptoms that are not explained by any other health conditions, the study would like to talk to you about your experiences.

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, a £25 shopping voucher is 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 call/text  “Long Covid Research’’ on 07721520243.

Youth Nature Wellbeing Project on Hampstead Heath 

Heath Hands is launching a pilot project inviting young people aged 13-16 who struggle with school attendance to take part in nature activities on Hampstead Heath. The new project aims to promote mental wellbeing and practical skills through a combination of hands-on conservation work, nature art activities and forest-school style experiences. Sessions will run in February/March 2023.

Learn more here

SMK Campaigner Survey 2022 

The Sheila McKechnie Foundation Campaigner Survey is now open for 2022. SMK wants to hear what the world is like for campaigners and change-makers. Whether you work alone or with others, as a volunteer or employee, they want to hear from you.

Complete the survey here

Henna Asian Women’s Group 

Henna Asian Women’s Group provides a platform for people to connect through hybrid services, including exercise, music & singing, ESOL, art & crafts, Henna Support Group, Chai with Henna and the Wellbeing Hub. A hot meal and warm space are provided on Mondays and Wednesdays to support local residents in Kilburn and beyond during the cost-of-living crisis.

For more information, call 0207 372 9860

LIFT: Intro to Coding Course 

Application closing date: 5th February 2023

LIFT Intro to Coding is a 6-week beginner’s programme designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to start a career in the thriving world of software development. No prior coding experience is needed. You will gain core skills in software development and build a portfolio to show to prospective employers.

Find out more here

Looking for a previous newsletter entry? Find it in our archive here

Find presentations, recordings and resources from past forums here

Our mailing address is:
Greenwood Centre, Greenwood Place, London, NW5 1LB

Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list.

Membership is free, click on the link box above and sign up today

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

VAC Consultancy Service 

VAC is delighted to announce the launch of our new VAC Consultancy Service. We offer expert support with any issue that affects your established or aspiring Camden VCS organisation, in all areas including funding, volunteers, setting up, governance and more.

Our staff have a vast knowledge of the Voluntary and Community Sector in Camden and if we don’t know the answer to your question, we know someone who will.

We’ll get back to your enquiry within 5 working days, and we’ll send you a list of free, helpful resources in the meantime.

Learn more and apply for support here

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.

SMK Campaigner Survey 2022 

The Sheila McKechnie Foundation Campaigner Survey is now open for 2022. SMK wants to hear what the world is like for campaigners and change-makers. Whether you work alone or with others, as a volunteer or employee, they want to hear from you.

Complete the survey here

Free Community Festival in Swiss Cottage 

Thursday 26th Jan: 12-5pm at Likewise, 8 Fairhazel Gardens

The Zen Project and Mind in Camden bring you one of a series of monthly festivals to celebrate mental health and support the local Camden community. Activities are free and open to all, including free food, massage, mindfulness sessions and more. No need to book – just turn up.

Learn more here

Sadler’s Wells Tickets Offer: Peacock Theatre  

Sadler’s Wells is offering £12 tickets for performances of Familie Floz, acclaimed masters of mask- performance, who return to the London International Mime Festival for the first time since 2016. The offer is available for showings Thurs 2nd and Fri 3rd Feb at 7.30pm.

To book your £12 tickets, click here and enter the promo code: MIME12 at checkout.

Youth Nature Wellbeing Project on Hampstead Heath 

Heath Hands is launching a pilot project inviting young people aged 13-16 who struggle with school attendance to take part in nature activities on Hampstead Heath. The new project aims to promote mental wellbeing and practical skills through a combination of hands-on conservation work, nature art activities and forest-school style experiences. Sessions will run in February/March 2023.

Learn more here

Universal Credit Training 

Tuesday 24th Jan: 10am-4pm at Crowndale Centre, NW1 1BD

Good Work Camden has commissioned 6 Welfare Rights training sessions to help participants understand the benefits system. The first session concerns Universal Credit. Learners will gain awareness of who claims UC, when to claim and what they receive; rent and managed payments and common issues and how to resolve them.

To register your place, please contact urmi.kabir@camden.gov.uk

Volunteer Managers’ Forum  

Tuesday 28th Feb at 2pm: Online

Volunteer Centre Camden is hosting a Volunteer Managers’ Forum. Participants will benefit from peer support and networking and can choose the topics to discuss.

Register your place here

Camden & Islington Volunteering Fair

Thursday 2nd Feb at 12.30pm: Online

Want to volunteer in Camden and Islington? Volunteer Centre Camden and Volunteer Centre Islington are hosting a free, online volunteering fair. Participants can meet organisations currently recruiting volunteers, who will ‘pitch’ their volunteering roles in a Dragon’s Den style.

Register your place here

Camden Safer Neighbourhood Board 

Camden Safer Neighbourhood Board is holding a public meeting on 24 January 2023 at 6.30-9pm. It will concern Neighbourhood Policing and addressing Anti-Social Behaviour. The venue is Crowndale Centre, 218 Eversholt St, London NW1 1BD. Participants do not need to register in advance.

For more information, contact camdensnb@somerstown.org.uk

LDN London: Trustee Vacancy 

Learning Disability Network London is proud to have been supporting learning disabled Londoners for over 60 years. They are looking for a new Trustee with the enthusiasm, creativity and commitment to join their board of Trustees.

Learn more here

Education Gardener and Coordinator Vacancy 

Closing date: Monday 13th Feb at 9am

Global Generation is looking for someone who is passionate about involving the community in connecting to nature and gardening. As the Education Gardener and Coordinator, you will be responsible for engaging local children, young people, families and volunteers in Global Generation’s outdoor learning projects.

Learn more 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

VAC Cost-of-Living Crisis Resource
VAC recognises that the cost-of-living crisis is a huge concern for families, businesses, and the Voluntary Community Sector.

We are collating information and resources to help community groups and residents in Camden navigate through the crisis. To find out more, click here

Energy Bills Discount Scheme 

The Government has announced a new Energy Bills Discount Scheme (EBDS) to run from 1 April 2023 for eligible non-domestic consumers in Great Britain and Northern Ireland. The scheme is available to all non-domestic contracts, including voluntary sector organisations and charities. The discount will be automatically applied.

Learn more here

Proposed Updates to the Euston Area Plan 

Camden Council is consulting on proposed updates to the Euston Area Plan (EAP) – a planning document that will help to shape the future of the Euston area. The Council wants to hear your views on the proposed updates to the EAP. You can review the suggested changes and share your views online via the Council’s Commonplace website here

Women’s Safety in Camden Survey 

Camden Council would like to hear the experiences of all women and girls in Camden to understand how safe you feel living, working and travelling around the borough. The results of the survey will help the Council to work out the right steps to improve the safety of all women and girls in Camden.

The survey is confidential and takes about 15 minutes to complete. To have your say, click here

Local Newsletters:

SHAK
Young Camden Foundation (Funding Newsletter)
Young Camden Foundation (Events and Training 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)
Abbey Community Centre Newsletter
Heath Hands
UCL Volunteering Service Newsletter (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 Community Vaccine Project: Round 2

VAC and the C4 Consortium are inviting community groups and organisations in Camden, including unincorporated associations, to design new and expand existing initiatives to encourage vaccine take-up in the borough. This includes tackling misinformation surrounding the COVID-19 vaccine and other vaccine programmes.

If you are interested in applying for this funding, or would just like to find out more, please click here

Sports England: Small Grants Programme 

The Small Grants Programme seeks to develop opportunities for communities to get more people physically active. New projects will be supported through providing National Lottery funding of between £300 and £15,000.

Learn more here

YCF Winter Community Fund 

Young Camden Foundation’s Winter Community Fund aims to support children and young people in Camden during winter 2022/23. In January 2023, YCF is reopening this fund on a rolling basis, with a focus on funding short projects during the February half term.

Learn more here

Love Camden: Community Festival Funding 

Closing date: 28th February 2023

Camden Council are delighted to announce that they are opening funding applications for local Community Festivals and Events. Applications are welcome for grants of £200 to £2,000.

Learn more here

Building Strong Communities Fund 

Closing date: 13th March 2023

The Mayor of London is offering funding for London equity-led voluntary and community sector organisations to enable communities to shape their recovery from COVID-19, through community-led projects that help meet certain outcomes.

Learn more here

London Community Energy Fund 

Closing date: 5th February 2023

The London Community Energy Fund provides much-needed support to get community energy projects up and running and deployed faster to reboot the economy and benefit hard-hit communities.

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

VAC Free Safeguarding Training Courses 

What better way to start the new year than refreshing your organisation’s essential safeguarding skills?

VAC is offering 3 FREE safeguarding training sessions over the coming months:

Virtual Introduction to Safeguarding for Volunteers and New Starters 

Wednesday 25th January 2023: 10am – 11:30am

Register your place here

Virtual Introduction to Safer Recruitment for Small Organisations and Community Groups 

Tuesday 21st February 2023: 10am – 11:30am

Register your place here

Safeguarding Advanced: Developing Knowledge and Understanding (in-person) 

Wednesday 22nd March at Saint Pancras Community Association: 9:30am – 3:30pm

Aimed at increasing existing safeguarding knowledge for those who have had no safeguarding training in the last two years and need a refresher.

Designed for volunteers, supplementary schools, VCS groups and organisations delivering services to under 18’s and their families in Camden. Lunch and refreshments provided.

To register your place, or for more information, contact Dianne Carlton-Ogunyemi, VAC Community Safeguarding Lead at dogunyemi@vac.org.uk

Free Arthritis Action Clinic 

Monday 23rd Jan at Central YMCA Club

Central YMCA Club have partnered with Arthritis Action to offer a FREE Open Clinic to people living with Arthritis. The open clinic provides practical advice on how to reduce the pain of arthritis through self-management and lifestyle choices.

Click here to book your free, 15-minute session with dietitian Martin Lau

Birkbeck Career Pathways Workshops 

Want support with deciding your next career steps? Have a career in mind but unsure how to achieve it? Birkbeck is hosting free in-person and online career workshops throughout January, designed to give people without a degree space to reflect on their life and goals.

Find a workshop here

Free Digital Skills and Leadership Training 

London South Bank University, with funding from the European Social Fund, is offering free digital skills and leadership training to employed Londoners, with a focus on supporting those living/working in deprived areas, or who are subject to digital exclusion. The training, which is OCN Accredited, is aimed at both smaller employers/groups who cannot afford to upskill their workforces, as well as individuals who struggle to access and/or fund their personal development due to physical or mental disabilities.

Learn more here

SHAK Community Volunteering 

The South Hampstead & Kilburn Community Partnership is looking for community volunteers. Volunteers will help SHAK direct people towards the services available to them, including advice on housing and benefits. SHAK offers free IAG Level 1 training on 23rd and 24th Jan 2023, continuous support and a volunteer toolkit with useful online resources.

For more information, click here or contact SHAK on 02073727021 or info@shakonline.co.uk

Royal Free Charity Vacancy 

Royal Free Charity are hiring a Young Volunteer Programme Coordinator. The post is 37.5 hours a week over five days, and pays £25,000 – £30,450 per annum, subject to skills and experience.

Learn more and apply here

Single Homeless Project: Peer Mentoring 

Single Homeless Project are delighted to announce that they are accepting applications for their peer mentoring training & volunteering program.

To receive an application pack, or to find out more about the opportunity, please click here or contact peermentoring@shp.org.uk

Completed applications must be returned by 5pm on Wednesday 22nd February.

Long Covid Survey
The Community Links team at VAC are working with the University of Southampton to facilitate a study into Long Covid. If you had, or think you had, Covid 3 or more months ago and yet continue to experience symptoms that are not explained by any other health conditions, the study would like to talk to you about your experiences.

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, a £25 shopping voucher is 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 call/text  “Long Covid Research’’ on 07721520243.

Henna Asian Women’s Group 

Henna Asian Women’s Group provides a platform for people to connect through hybrid services, including exercise, music & singing, ESOL, art & crafts, Henna Support Group, Chai with Henna and the Wellbeing Hub. A hot meal and warm space are provided on Mondays and Wednesdays to support local residents in Kilburn and beyond during the cost-of-living crisis.

For more information, call 0207 372 9860

LIFT: Intro to Coding Course 

Application closing date: 5th February 2023

LIFT Intro to Coding is a 6-week beginner’s programme designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to start a career in the thriving world of software development. No prior coding experience is needed. You will gain core skills in software development and build a portfolio to show to prospective employers.

Find out more here

Looking for a previous newsletter entry? Find it in our archive here

Find presentations, recordings and resources from past forums here

Membership is free, click on the link box above and sign up today

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

VAC Free Safeguarding Training Courses 

What better way to start the new year than refreshing your organisation’s essential safeguarding skills?

VAC is offering 3 FREE safeguarding training sessions over the coming months:

Virtual Introduction to Safeguarding for Volunteers and New Starters 

Wednesday 25th January 2023: 10am – 11:30am

Register your place here

Virtual Introduction to Safer Recruitment for Small Organisations and Community Groups 

Tuesday 21st February 2023: 10am – 11:30am

Register your place here

Safeguarding Advanced: Developing Knowledge and Understanding (in-person) 

Wednesday 22nd March at Saint Pancras Community Association: 9:30am – 3:30pm

Aimed at increasing existing safeguarding knowledge for those who have had no safeguarding training in the last two years and need a refresher.

Designed for volunteers, supplementary schools, VCS groups and organisations delivering services to under 18’s and their families in Camden. Lunch and refreshments provided.

To register your place, or for more information, contact Dianne Carlton-Ogunyemi, VAC Community Safeguarding Lead at dogunyemi@vac.org.uk

SHAK Community Volunteering 

The South Hampstead & Kilburn Community Partnership is looking for community volunteers. Volunteers will help SHAK direct people towards the services available to them, including advice on housing and benefits. SHAK offers free IAG Level 1 training on 23rd and 24th Jan 2023, continuous support and a volunteer toolkit with useful online resources.

For more information, click here or contact SHAK on 02073727021 or info@shakonline.co.uk

Somers Town Future Neighbourhoods 2030 

Thursday 19th Jan: 12pm – 3pm at St Pancras & Somers Town Living Centre

Somers Town is hosting a workshop to help create a long-term plan for Somers Town as part of the Mayor of London’s Future Neighbourhoods 2030 programme. It will be a chance for everyone to decide how Somers Town might be in the future, and how Somers Town can help to tackle the climate crisis.

To book a place email info@thelivingcentre.org with your contact details, or for more information email sarah@somerstown.org.uk

Young Persons Resilience Workshop  

Wednesday 18th Jan: 4pm – 5:30pm

SPCA is proud to be hosting the Amy Winehouse Foundation Resilience Training Workshop. Aimed at young people aged 14-18, it will be an informative session with a view to help them to make safer choices around drugs, alcohol and their wellbeing.

Register your place here

Henna Asian Women’s Group 

Henna Asian Women’s Group provides a platform for people to connect through hybrid services, including exercise, music & singing, ESOL, art & crafts, Henna Support Group, Chai with Henna and the Wellbeing Hub. A hot meal and warm space are provided on Mondays and Wednesdays to support local residents in Kilburn and beyond during the cost-of-living crisis.

For more information, call 0207 372 9860

Free Arthritis Action Clinic 

Monday 23rd Jan at Central YMCA Club

Central YMCA Club have partnered with Arthritis Action to offer a FREE Open Clinic to people living with Arthritis. The open clinic provides practical advice on how to reduce the pain of arthritis through self-management and lifestyle choices.

Click here to book your free, 15-minute session with dietitian Martin Lau

Energy Bills Discount Scheme 

The Government has announced a new Energy Bills Discount Scheme (EBDS) to run from 1 April 2023 for eligible non-domestic consumers in Great Britain and Northern Ireland. The scheme is available to all non-domestic contracts, including voluntary sector organisations and charities. The discount will be automatically applied.

Learn more here

Proposed Updates to the Euston Area Plan 

Camden Council is consulting on proposed updates to the Euston Area Plan (EAP) – a planning document that will help to shape the future of the Euston area. The Council wants to hear your views on the proposed updates to the EAP. You can review the suggested changes and share your views online via the Council’s Commonplace website here

Camden’s Evening and Night Time Citizens’ Assembly 

Closing date: 20th January 2023

Camden Council are inviting residents to join a Citizens’ Assembly about Camden’s Evening and Night-Time. Participants will develop a vision for the future of Camden’s evening and night time and make recommendations about how the Council, businesses and Camden’s communities could achieve this. The Assembly is on 18th Feb, 25th Feb, 4th March 2023.

Find out more here or complete their Commonplace survey here

LIFT: Intro to Coding Course 

Application closing date: 5th February 2023

LIFT Intro to Coding is a 6-week beginner’s programme designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to start a career in the thriving world of software development. No prior coding experience is needed. You will gain core skills in software development and build a portfolio to show to prospective employers.

Find out more 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

VAC Cost-of-Living Crisis Resource
VAC recognises that the cost-of-living crisis is a huge concern for families, businesses, and the Voluntary Community Sector.

We are collating information and resources to help community groups and residents in Camden navigate through the crisis. To find out more, click here

Women’s Safety in Camden Survey 

Camden Council would like to hear the experiences of all women and girls in Camden to understand how safe you feel living, working and travelling around the borough. The results of the survey will help the Council to work out the right steps to improve the safety of all women and girls in Camden.

The survey is confidential and takes about 15 minutes to complete. To have your say, click here

Local Newsletters:

SHAK
Young Camden Foundation (Funding Newsletter)
Young Camden Foundation (Events and Training 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)
Abbey Community Centre Newsletter
Heath Hands
UCL Volunteering Service Newsletter (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 Community Vaccine Project: Round 2

VAC and the C4 Consortium are inviting community groups and organisations in Camden, including unincorporated associations, to design new and expand existing initiatives to encourage vaccine take-up in the borough. This includes tackling misinformation surrounding the COVID-19 vaccine and other vaccine programmes.

If you are interested in applying for this funding, or would just like to find out more, please click here

Origin Housing: Community Fund
Closing date: 20^th January 2023
Origin Housing awards grants of up to £2,000 for projects that address a need in the local community and benefit their residents. Origin Housing resident groups, local voluntary and community groups, charities, social enterprises and any not-for-profit organisations can apply.
Learn more here 

NFP Research: Small Charity Research Award 

The Small Charity Research Award is an opportunity for a charity with an income under £1 million / €1 million to receive a £10,000 research project for free. The nfpResearch team will work closely with the successful charity to design a research project to fulfil your charity and research objectives.

Learn more here

Community Action Fund 

The Community Action Fund provides one-off grants between £2,500 and £20,000. These grants are available to grassroots organisations that are building the power of their community and campaigning for long-term change.

Learn more here

BME Youth Together Fund 

BME Youth is inviting clubs, groups, associations and organisations to apply for Together Fund to deliver sports and physical activities to culturally diverse communities, disabled people, lower socioeconomic groups and people with long term health conditions to improve their health and wellbeing.

Learn more here

London Plus: Community Resilience Fund 

London Plus is working with the Greater London Authority to deliver the community resilience fund. Grants will be awarded for community and voluntary sector infrastructure organisations.
The deadline for applications is 5pm on Wednesday 25th January 2023.

Learn more here

The Span Trust Funding 

Closing date: 27th January 2023

The Span Trust seeks to fund London-based projects by awarding grants between £5,000 and £20,000 that will alleviate poverty, disability, age or ill health, and advance urban regeneration through the improvement of the built environment.

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

Birkbeck Career Pathways Workshops 

Want support with deciding your next career steps? Have a career in mind but unsure how to achieve it? Birkbeck is hosting free in-person and online career workshops throughout January, designed to give people without a degree space to reflect on their life and goals.

Find a workshop here

Free Digital Skills and Leadership Training 

London South Bank University, with funding from the European Social Fund, is offering free digital skills and leadership training to employed Londoners, with a focus on supporting those living/working in deprived areas, or who are subject to digital exclusion. The training, which is OCN Accredited, is aimed at both smaller employers/groups who cannot afford to upskill their workforces, as well as individuals who struggle to access and/or fund their personal development due to physical or mental disabilities.

Learn more here

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.

Royal Free Charity Vacancy 

Royal Free Charity are hiring a Young Volunteer Programme Coordinator. The post is 37.5 hours a week over five days, and pays £25,000 – £30,450 per annum, subject to skills and experience.

Learn more and apply here

Single Homeless Project: Peer Mentoring 

Single Homeless Project are delighted to announce that they are accepting applications for their peer mentoring training & volunteering program.

To receive an application pack, or to find out more about the opportunity, please click here or contact peermentoring@shp.org.uk

Completed applications must be returned by 5pm on Wednesday 22nd February.

Long Covid Survey
The Community Links team at VAC are working with the University of Southampton to facilitate a study into Long Covid. If you had, or think you had, Covid 3 or more months ago and yet continue to experience symptoms that are not explained by any other health conditions, the study would like to talk to you about your experiences.

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, a £25 shopping voucher is 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 call/text  “Long Covid Research’’ on 07721520243.

Startup School for Seniors 

On 13th January, Startup School for Seniors is launching a new eight-week online course, ‘Developing your Creative Business’, alongside their award-winning Startup School for Seniors programme. The course is an opportunity to turn your passion into a business venture. Fully funded places are available for Londoners aged 50+.

Learn more here

Family Learning Awards Now Open 

The Family Learning Awards from Campaign for Learning celebrate creative, innovative and inclusive learning. This year, there are four categories in which you can enter your family learning activity, event or initiative. Applications are open to any UK organisation working with families. The awards are free to enter and close on 31st January 2023.

Learn more here

ORT Jump in Camden 

Due to recent funding, ORT UK’s flagship programme JUMP, a career-related mentoring programme aimed at Year 12 students, is expanding into Camden! The aim of the programme is to ensure that participants are better informed about their future career and educational options by identifying their strengths and gaining the confidence to take the next steps in their career journey.

Learn more here

Link UP London: Developmental Support in 2023 

Are there any potential improvements your charity or social enterprise is looking to make in 2023? Link UP London provides access to bespoke Skilled Support for charities, social enterprises and community groups for FREE. Link UP Volunteers have industry specific knowledge in areas of crucial importance to any charitable organisation’s development, such as finance, legal, human resources, communications, data analysis, social media, and much more.

Click here to book a chat, or click here to register your place

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

Looking for a previous newsletter entry? Find it in our newsletter archive here.

Our mailing address is:
Greenwood Centre, Greenwood Place, London, NW5 1LB

Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list.

Membership is free, click on the link box above and sign up today

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

We are inviting community groups and organisations in Camden, including unincorporated associations, to design new and expand existing initiatives to encourage vaccine take-up in the borough. This includes tackling misinformation surrounding the COVID-19 vaccine and other vaccine programmes.

If you are interested in applying for this funding, or would just like to find out more, please click here.

Free Digital Skills and Leadership Training 

London South Bank University, with funding from the European Social Fund, is offering free digital skills and leadership training to employed Londoners, with a focus on supporting those living/working in deprived areas, or who are subject to digital exclusion. The training, which is OCN Accredited, is aimed at both smaller employers/groups who cannot afford to upskill their workforces, as well as individuals who struggle to access and/or fund their personal development due to physical or mental disabilities.

Learn more here

Link UP London: Developmental Support in 2023 

Are there any potential improvements your charity or social enterprise is looking to make in 2023? Link UP London provides access to bespoke Skilled Support for charities, social enterprises and community groups for FREE. Link UP Volunteers have industry specific knowledge in areas of crucial importance to any charitable organisation’s development, such as finance, legal, human resources, communications, data analysis, social media, and much more.

Click here to book a chat, or click here to register your place

Single Homeless Project: Peer Mentoring 

Single Homeless Project are delighted to announce that they are accepting applications for their peer mentoring training & volunteering program.

To receive an application pack, or to find out more about the opportunity, please click here or contact peermentoring@shp.org.uk

Completed applications must be returned by 5pm on Monday 30th January.

Good Work Camden Education and Training Fair 

Friday 13th Jan at Old Diorama Arts Centre: 10am – 2pm

Good Work Camden is hosting an Education and Training Fair, open to all residents to meet with local education and training providers. It’s a great chance for anyone to find out more about the opportunities available for them to upskill.

Register your free place here

Startup School for Seniors 

On 13th January, Startup School for Seniors is launching a new eight-week online course, ‘Developing your Creative Business’, alongside their award-winning Startup School for Seniors programme. The course is an opportunity to turn your passion into a business venture. Fully funded places are available for Londoners aged 50+.

Learn more here

Family Learning Awards Now Open 

 The Family Learning Awards from Campaign for Learning celebrate creative, innovative and inclusive learning. This year, there are four categories in which you can enter your family learning activity, event or initiative. Applications are open to any UK organisation working with families. The awards are free to enter and close on 31st January 2023.

Learn more here

ORT Jump in Camden 

Due to recent funding, ORT UK’s flagship programme JUMP, a career-related mentoring programme aimed at Year 12 students, is expanding into Camden! The aim of the programme is to ensure that participants are better informed about their future career and educational options by identifying their strengths and gaining the confidence to take the next steps in their career journey.

Learn more here

Birkbeck Career Pathways Workshops 

Want support with deciding your next career steps? Have a career in mind but unsure how to achieve it? Birkbeck is hosting free in-person and online career workshops throughout January, designed to give people without a degree space to reflect on their life and goals.

Find a workshop here

North London Cares Vacancies 

North London Cares are hiring for the following vacancies.

Social Clubs Coordinator (FT) – £28k

Outreach and Engagement Coordinator x2 (PT) – £15,680

Learn more and apply here

Royal Free Charity Vacancy 

Royal Free Charity are hiring a Young Volunteer Programme Coordinator. The post is 37.5 hours a week over five days, and pays £25,000 – £30,450 per annum, subject to skills and experience.

Learn more and apply 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

VAC Cost-of-Living Crisis Resource
VAC recognises that the cost-of-living crisis is a huge concern for families, businesses, and the Voluntary Community Sector.

We are collating information and resources to help community groups and residents in Camden navigate through the crisis. To find out more, click here

Women’s Safety in Camden Survey 

Camden Council would like to hear the experiences of all women and girls in Camden to understand how safe you feel living, working and travelling around the borough. The results of the survey will help the Council to work out the right steps to improve the safety of all women and girls in Camden.

The survey is confidential and takes about 15 minutes to complete. To have your say, click here

Local Newsletters:

SHAK
Young Camden Foundation (Funding Newsletter)
Young Camden Foundation (Events and Training 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)
Abbey Community Centre Newsletter
Heath Hands

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

London Plus: Community Resilience Fund 

London Plus is working with the Greater London Authority to deliver the community resilience fund. Grants will be awarded for community and voluntary sector infrastructure organisations.
The deadline for applications is 5pm on Wednesday 25th January 2023.

Learn more here

The Span Trust Funding 

Closing date: 27th January 2023

The Span Trust seeks to fund London-based projects by awarding grants between £5,000 and £20,000 that will alleviate poverty, disability, age or ill health, and advance urban regeneration through the improvement of the built environment.

Learn more here

BBC Children in Need Core Costs Grant
BBC Children in Need is offering core cost grants to support essential organisational and administrative spending. Core costs include key expenses required to keep your organisation running. This funding stream has no application deadline – you can apply at any time.

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

Camden’s Evening and Night Time: Citizens’ Assembly 

18th and 25th Feb and 4th March 2023

Camden Council is inviting residents to join a Citizens’ Assembly about Camden’s Evening and Night Time. Participants will develop a vision for the future of Camden’s evening and night time and make recommendations about how the Council, businesses and Camden’s communities could achieve this vision.

Learn more here

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.

Long Covid Survey
The Community Links team at VAC are working with the University of Southampton to facilitate a study into Long Covid. If you had, or think you had, Covid 3 or more months ago and yet continue to experience symptoms that are not explained by any other health conditions, the study would like to talk to you about your experiences.

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, a £15 shopping voucher is 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 call/text  “Long Covid Research’’ on 07721520243.

MoreLife: Tier 2 Adult Weight Management Service 

A new tier 2 adult weight management service, delivered by MoreLife, will be launching at the beginning of January in Camden and Islington. For Camden and Islington residents (or those registered with a GP in either borough), the service will be delivered in-person and online. Lasting 12 weeks, the programme will take a psychologically-informed and evidence-based approach to weight management.

Individuals can self-refer into the service now by calling 0333 222 1333. An online self-referral form will be available soon.

Learn more here

SMK National Campaigner Awards 

Nominations for the SMK National Campaigner Awards are now open. Each year, SMK celebrates the best campaigns and campaigners. What all nominees have in common is the determination to secure a specific change that will make things better.

Learn more here

Past Voluntary Action Forums: Resources

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

Looking for a previous newsletter entry? Find it in our newsletter archive here.

Our mailing address is:
Greenwood Centre, Greenwood Place, London, NW5 1LB

Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list.

Christmas 2022 Update to Members and Subscribers

16th December 2022

Merry Christmas from Voluntary Action Camden! Scroll down for new Camden VCS funding, local warm spaces and free meals, and festive entertainment recommendations.

Camden Council is set to announce new funding for the local voluntary and community sector in the coming days.

Click here to sign up to the Camden VCS newsletter and to be notified as soon as the funding is announced.

You can also watch VAC’s recent Cost-of-Living Crisis Forum here to find out more about the challenges the sector is facing and the resources that are available.

When the VAC team sat down this month to discuss our recent work, one topic loomed large over the conversation – the cost of living. This crisis has affected almost every aspect of VAC’s work and it was the focus of our latest Voluntary Action Forum.

The Cultural Advocacy Project and Community Links team have been discussing the subject with groups and individuals across Camden. They have been helping residents to connect with resources to assist with energy bills, to get them the food they need, to access mental health support services and much more.

The cost-of-living crisis has meant that more residents than ever before need advice and support, and with pressure rising on local resources, VAC staff continue to provide safeguarding training for organisations that require it. New and innovative pilot safeguarding courses are currently been arranged for the new year.

Beyond the cost-of-living, members of the team are also collaborating with the University of Southampton to research the effects of Long Covid, meeting with local hospitals to discuss referral support, and recruiting volunteers to assist with our community work.

In November, VAC and Volunteer Centre Camden celebrated Trustee Week with a highly successful Trustee Appreciation and Networking Event, which sought to provide the recognition that Trustees in Camden deserve.

Elsewhere, and in collaboration with local VCSE organisations, VAC has been working on a Community Action Research project. Neighbourhood-based research partners are looking for solutions to the challenges of accessing health services and alleviating social isolation.

As one member of the Community Links team commented “social prescribing work never ends” and nor does VACs commitment to a healthy, prosperous and connected Camden.

With energy costs soaring, many people will be at home with only limited heating during the Christmas period.

If you’re looking for somewhere warm in Camden to relax, work or catch up with friends during the festive period, click here to find a warm, welcome space near you.

Community Champions Camden are also offering free, Community Kitchen meals to eat together or take-away throughout December. Click here to sign up.

Keith recommends:
Watch: Can’t Get You Out of My Head (BBC iPlayer)

Read: Decolonial Marxism by Walter Rodney

Eat: Mince pies and brandy sauce

Alex recommends:
Listen to: ‘The Science of Everything’ and ‘Radio Lab’ podcasts

Watch: SAS Rogue Heroes (BBC), The Peanut Butter Falcon (Netflix), I Shouldn’t Be Alive (Prime)

Eat: anything from Marion’s Kitchen – delicious and (some) fairly simple Asian dishes to cook at home!

Donna recommends:

Read – Tim Spector’s ‘Food for Life’ – myth busting about health, and nutrition, and exposing misinformation from the food industry (oh… and coffee and wine are good for you!).

Listen – I’m a bit addicted to ‘The Rest is Politics’ podcast

Make for keeping warm – sew 3 sides of a cotton bag (no plastic-based or metallic fabrics), fill 1/3^rd with pearl barley, or another cheap grain, sew up the 4^th side. Microwave for 1 minute. Use instead of a hot water bottle – cheaper than boiling a kettle!

Hasel recommends: 

Watch: The Martian – a film with Matt Damon who’s alone in space

Read: Short stories – try ‘Grimm Tales for the Young and Old’ by Philip Pullman or ‘Best British Short Stories 2020’ by Nicholas Royle.

Make: I love a sticky toffee pudding, especially in cold weather. It’s nice and warming.

Ella recommends:

Watch: FIFA Uncovered (Netflix) – shocking layers of scandal and corruption!

Read: ‘A Christmas Carol’ by Charles Dickens. The societal issues it deals with – the criminalisation of poverty and the privilege of affording warmth – are very timely today.

John recommends:

Watch: Andor (Disney+)

Read: ‘The First Fifteen Lives of Harry August’ by Claire North

Dianne recommends:

Watch: Invasion (Apple TV+)

Read: ‘Rationality’ by Steven Pinker

Make: My favourite sticky toffee pudding recipe

Play: Hedbanz – a fun game to play with the kids and currently £8 in Argos

Nasrin recommends:

Watch: The Courier – a cold war thriller based on a true story of friendship and sacrifice. For something more festive, watch Klaus to bring out your inner child (both on Netflix).

Read: ‘Life after Life’ by Kate Atkinson about the journey of life and alternative possibilities.

Play: Monopoly Deal Card Game, a classic in card version (no need to search for those missing pieces!).

Mandira recommends: 

Make –  MoMo, a type of Nepalese dumpling!

VAC Festive Opening Hours

Voluntary Action Camden will be closed from 24/12/22 – 3/1/23.

The Community Links team will also not be working during this period – in an emergency, please contact Camden Council on 020 7974 4444.

The regular newsletter will resume on Friday 6th January 2023.

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas from Keith & the VAC team: Alex, Dianne, Donna, Hasel, John, Ella, Mandira, Manuella, Nasrin, Ricky and Lola and all the Trustees and Volunteers.

Our mailing address is:
Greenwood Centre, Greenwood Place, London, NW5 1LB

Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list.

Membership is free, click on the link box above and sign up today

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

Our new JustGiving page is now live. This page provides a new way for VAC to receive donations towards our work in the Camden community.

We understand that not everyone has the capacity to donate during these difficult times. If you are able to, and would like to make a donation to VAC, please click here

Family Festive Nature Crafts on Hampstead Heath 

Join Heath Hands for a free afternoon on Hampstead Heath, making festive decorations from natural materials and finding out about nature in winter.

Register your place here

Join Castlehaven for festive extravaganza, WinterFest
Head to Castlehaven Community Association from 3:30 to 7 pm today (Friday 9th Dec) for a jam-packed afternoon of festive fun, stalls and performances. There will be delicious food and drink, a visit from Santa, and activities for the whole family to enjoy.

MoreLife: Tier 2 Adult Weight Management Service 

A new tier 2 adult weight management service, delivered by MoreLife, will be launching at the beginning of January in Camden and Islington. For Camden and Islington residents (or those registered with a GP in either borough), the service will be delivered in-person and online. Lasting 12 weeks, the programme will take a psychologically-informed and evidence-based approach to weight management.

Individuals can self-refer into the service now by calling 0333 222 1333. An online self-referral form will be available soon.

Learn more here

Women’s Safety in Camden Survey 

Camden Council would like to hear the experiences of all women and girls in Camden to understand how safe you feel living, working and travelling around the borough. The results of the survey will help the Council to work out the right steps to improve the safety of all women and girls in Camden.

The survey is confidential and takes about 15 minutes to complete. To have your say, click here

Camden Winter Reading Challenge 

Children aged up to 12 years can get involved in Camden’s Winter Reading Challenge by reading four or more books by 20th February 2023. They can receive a certificate, stickers and more for completing the challenge.

Join for free by visiting your local Camden library.

Community Engagement and Active Citizenship: Studentship Opportunity 

Closing date: 12pm on 11th January 2023

The Department of Geography at the Open University is collaborating with Camden Council to conduct research into questions of active citizenship and community engagement on estates in Camden. This project would be of interest to a student with a background in Geography, Sociology, Urban Studies, Migration Studies, or similar disciplines.

Learn more and apply 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

Voluntary Action Forum: Cost of Living
On 29th November VAC held our latest VAF on the cost of living crisis. It was an incredible overview of an often harsh reality and included information from VAC, members of the Camden VCS and Camden Council.

This event was recorded and you can view the stream here

VAC Cost-of-Living Crisis Resource
VAC recognises that the cost-of-living crisis is a huge concern for families, businesses, and the Voluntary Community Sector.

We are collating information and resources to help community groups and residents in Camden navigate through the crisis. To find out more, click here

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 Support in Camden 

Everyone is likely to need a bit of help this winter, so if you’re struggling, please reach out for help. Camden Council offers support with debt, mental health, food, rising energy bills, finding a job and more.

Learn more here or call Camden Council on 020 7974 4444 (Option 9).

The Children’s Society Report: Young People with SEND Experiences of School Exclusions
The Children’s Society has published A Report on Young People with SEND Experiences of School Exclusions. The report is informed by young people with SEND who have experienced exclusions and concludes with recommendations for schools, local authorities and government.
You can read the report here

London’s Borough Poverty Profile 2022 

Trust for London has published an analysis of borough-level poverty in London, with new figures covering five years of data up to 2019/20. The report reveals that the impact of housing costs to poverty rates is acutely apparent within London at borough level.

Camden is among the top 10 boroughs where housing costs are having the biggest impact on poverty rates.

Read more here

Local Newsletters:

SHAK
Young Camden Foundation (Funding Newsletter)
Young Camden Foundation (Events and Training 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)
Abbey Community Centre Newsletter
Heath Hands

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

Co-op Future Communities Fund

Closing date: 12pm on 23rd December
A new first round of the Co-op Future Communities Fund will offer unrestricted and flexible grants of up to £30,000 a year for five years to organisations helping diverse young people develop the skills to become future leaders and activists.
Learn more here

London Marathon Charitable Trust: Active Spaces Fund 

The Active Spaces Fund aims to distribute grants up to £50,000 for projects that will improve and activate spaces, places and facilities that will help children and young people and marginalised groups and communities to lead active and healthy lives.

The first round of applications is open until December 16th. Future application rounds will close on 10th March, 7th July, and 8th September.

Learn more here

BBC Children in Need: Emergency Essentials 

The BBC Children in Need Emergency Essentials Programme grants items to vulnerable children and young people facing a crisis, such as a bed to sleep in, or a cooker to provide a hot meal. In response to the cost-of-living crisis, the programme has introduced new items to form an individual package of support, tailored to each household’s needs. The new items include small kitchen appliances and items to help keep the individual warm.

Learn more here

BBC Children in Need Core Costs Grant
BBC Children in Need is offering core cost grants to support essential organisational and administrative spending. Core costs include key expenses required to keep your organisation running. This funding stream has no application deadline – you can apply at any time.

Learn more here

Lloyd’s of London Foundation Grant

Closing date: 11th December 2022
Applications are now open for the Lloyd’s of London Foundation’s 2023 charity partnerships – this is an opportunity for charities to apply for a grant to support projects in the areas of employability, social mobility, mental health, climate and disaster avoidance and relief.
Learn more here

The Hampstead Wells and Campden Trust 

The principal objectives of The Hampstead Wells and Campden Trust are the alleviation of poverty and the advancement of health in the Trust’s area of benefit. They make grants to organisations, individuals and families.

Learn more here

North London Community Fund 

Closing date: 11pm on 16th December 2022

NLWA has established the North London Community Fund to support waste prevention initiatives in the north London area. This fund provides community-based (non-profit making) organisations with funding to develop new approaches to reduce waste and/or extend the reach and impact of existing waste prevention activity in north London.

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

Camden’s Evening and Night Time: Citizens’ Assembly 

18th and 25th Feb and 4th March 2023

Camden Council is inviting residents to join a Citizens’ Assembly about Camden’s Evening and Night Time. Participants will develop a vision for the future of Camden’s evening and night time and make recommendations about how the Council, businesses and Camden’s communities could achieve this vision.

Learn more here

Regent’s Place Community Space Open Day and Workshop 

Tuesday 13th December: Online

Regent’s Place Community Space is currently vacant and looking for new occupant(s). The upcoming workshop will help British Land get to know organisations that are interested in the space and understand the type of spaces that local organisations are in need of.

Register your place here

Free Childrens Yoga Classes for Camden residents aged 5-11
Saturday 10th and 17th December: 11am-12pm at Old Diorama Arts Centre NW1 3FE

These classes give children the opportunity to explore yoga through breathing exercises, poses, partner work, games and meditation. Please wear comfortable clothing and bring a bottle of water. Yoga mats will be provided.

To book a place, please email cherylreynald@yahoo.co.uk or message 07838214534.

St Pancras Community Association Christmas Fayre 

Saturday 10th Dec at 67 Plender Street: 11am – 4pm

SPCA is excited to announce their first ever Christmas Fayre. Bring your family and enjoy a whole host of festivities, including stalls, music, food, drinks and Santa’s Grotto.

Learn more here

Castlehaven Community Association: WinterFest Returns  

Friday 9th Dec: 3:30 – 7pm

Castlehaven Community Association’s festive extravaganza, WinterFest, is returning! Come along for a jam-packed afternoon of festive fun, stalls, performances and a mince pie or two.

If you’re a local business, organisation or community group that would like to run a stall, perform or volunteer at WinterFest, please contact info@castlehaven.co.uk

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.

Mind in Camden Vacancy: Mental Health Welfare Rights Development Worker 

Closing date: Monday 19th Dec at 1pm

Mind in Camden are seeking a Mental Health Welfare Rights Development Worker to join a new Core Team within Camden. You’ll be responsible for maintaining up-to-date welfare rights information, supporting colleagues with challenging welfare cases and ensuring that the team is equipped to support people with welfare rights issues and linked up with other welfare rights providers.

Learn more and apply here

The Royal Free Charity is looking for musicians
The Royal Free Charity is looking for musicians to play at a Christmas party for hospital volunteers. Whether it’s with festive tunes or classical accompaniment, they would love to say thank you to the volunteers who work so hard to support the hospital patients and staff.

The party is on Tuesday 13th December, 2-4pm, at the Pears Building (NW3).
If you are available, please contact Rebecca.McMahon@royalfreecharity.org

VoiceAbility: Peer Mentors Needed 

VoiceAbility is urgently seeking volunteers to support people who are struggling with their mental health in Camden. Are you a good listener, non-judgemental, empathetic & understanding? Do you have lived experience of mental health challenges? If so, you could volunteer as a Peer Mentor.

Learn more here or contact volunteering@voiceability.org

Long Covid Survey
The Community Links team at VAC are working with the University of Southampton to facilitate a study into Long Covid. If you had, or think you had, Covid 3 or more months ago and yet continue to experience symptoms that are not explained by any other health conditions, the study would like to talk to you about your experiences.

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, a £15 shopping voucher is 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 call/text  “Long Covid Research’’ on 07721520243.

SMK National Campaigner Awards 

Nominations for the SMK National Campaigner Awards are now open. Each year, SMK celebrates the best campaigns and campaigners. What all nominees have in common is the determination to secure a specific change that will make things better.

Learn more here

Maths on Toast: 24 Days of Christmaths 

If you’re looking for free family activities to do at home during December, the family maths charity Maths on Toast has the answer. They are revealing a different creative maths activity each day on their social media channels @mathsontoast, beginning on 1st December.

To download a free, festive maths pack, click here

Healthy Start Pre-Paid Card and Free Vitamins

Do you receive income support? Are you pregnant or do you have any children under the age of four? You may be eligible for a Healthy Start prepaid card. The Healthy Start payments can be used to buy milk, fruit, vegetables, and infant formula.

Learn more and apply here

London Ambulance Service NHS Trust Survey 

Healthwatch Camden are conducting research on behalf of London Ambulance Service NHS Trust (LAS) for the development of their new strategy. This strategy will describe the LAS vision and goals for the next five years, including how they will improve urgent and emergency care.

To complete the survey, click here

Henna Asian Womens Group
Henna Asian Womens Group provides a range of ways to connect with other people. Their services include exercise, music & singing, ESOL, Art & Craft, Henna Support Group, Chai with Henna and the Wellbeing Hub. It is also a place to get information and support.

For more information, click here or call 0207 372 9860.

Could you foster a Camden child?
Have you got space in your heart and home to foster a Camden child? Camden needs more people who are willing to provide our vulnerable children with care, stability and consistency.
Camden residents who foster are exempt from paying council tax, as well as receiving generous financial support, specialist training and an allocated social worker.
Visit camden.gov.uk/fostering, email fostering@camden.gov.uk, call 020 7974 1283 or 0800 028 1436 (freephone) to find out more.

Past Voluntary Action Forums: Resources

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

Our mailing address is:
Greenwood Centre, Greenwood Place, London, NW5 1LB

Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list.

Membership is free, click on the link box above and sign up today

We also have a reminder about the upcoming VAF on the cost of living challenges and information on a range of other local events and opportunities from around the Camden area.

Alongside our upcoming Voluntary Action Forum on Tuesday 29th November, which will discuss the cost of living crisis and the challenges we are all facing, we would like to remind you all that the Camden Care Navigation and Social Prescribing Service can help residents to access the local services that they may need, including help with issues related to the cost of living.

The VAC team works in partnership with Age UK Camden, Wish Plus and the North Central London Integrated Care Board and is available for both self referral or the referral of another who may be in need of some assistance.

To learn more or contact the service, please click here

Before we have begun to recover from the impact of the pandemic, the voluntary and community sector is faced with another crisis that will have even more profound and damaging effects.
The cost-of-living crisis threatens the continued resilience of the VCS sector, and VAC is calling for cross-sector unity and resistance to the much-anticipated reduction in public spending.

In October, VAC launched a member survey to better understand how the crisis is impacting the VCS, how community organisations are responding, and what further support the sector needs to tackle this new challenge.

Following a review of the survey results, VAC is holding a forum discussion with guest speakers from the sector to share the results of the survey, explore the challenges the VCS is facing and begin to identify practical and reliable solutions.

Learn more and register your free place here – please be aware that if you are unable to book a spot, please check back later on, we are in the process of adding additional places.

The Children’s Society Report: Young People with SEND Experiences of School Exclusions
The Children’s Society has published A Report on Young People with SEND Experiences of School Exclusions. The report is informed by young people with SEND who have experienced exclusions and concludes with recommendations for schools, local authorities and government.
You can read the report here

To supplement the learning within the report, The Children’s Society are holding a series of webinars. The practitioner focused webinar will be on 30th November 2022.
To register for this event, please click here

Free Childrens Yoga classes for Camden residents aged 5-11
Saturday 26th November, 3rd ,10th and 17th December: 11am-12pm at Old Diorama Arts Centre NW1 3FE

These classes give children the opportunity to explore yoga through breathing exercises, poses, partner work, games and meditation. Please wear comfortable clothing and bring a bottle of water. Yoga mats will be provided.

To book a place, please email cherylreynald@yahoo.co.uk or message 07838214534.

Could you foster a Camden child?
Have you got space in your heart and home to foster a Camden child? Camden needs more people who are willing to provide our vulnerable children with care, stability and consistency.
Camden residents who foster are exempt from paying council tax, as well as receiving generous financial support, specialist training and an allocated social worker.

Visit camden.gov.uk/fostering, email fostering@camden.gov.uk, call 020 7974 1283 or 0800 028 1436 (freephone) to find out more.

The Royal Free Charity is looking for musicians
The Royal Free Charity is looking for musicians to play at a Christmas party for hospital volunteers!
Whether it’s with festive tunes or classical accompaniment, we would love to say thank you to our volunteers who work so hard to support the hospital patients and staff.
The party is on Tuesday 13th December, 2-4pm, at the Pears Building (NW3).
If you are available, please contact Rebecca.McMahon@royalfreecharity.org

Calling all local performers, choirs and community groups
Castlehaven Community Association is looking for performers to showcase their talents at their annual winter festival, WinterFest, on the 9th of December.
The performance can be anything from dance, music, magic or theatre – as long as it’s family-friendly.

If you’re interested in participating, please email scott@castlehaven.org.uk

UCL’s students putting their research skills to good use
UCL’s Community Research Initiative recently held the first in-person Community Research Clinic for voluntary & community sector organisations to access research support from their friendly neighbourhood university!
Over 40 PhD students, already with great research skills, underwent training in consultancy skills on 10th November 2022. Now new trainee consultants, they were ready to work with the clinic’s first ‘clients’ during a fantastic afternoon where ideas were turned into project briefs.

Read all about it here

A meeting for d/Deaf and hard of hearing people in the Community
Monday 5th December: 5:30pm – 7:30pm at The Greenwood Centre 37 Greenwood Place, NW5 1LB

University College London Hospital (UCLH) Transformation and Patient Experience teams have arranged a meeting for d/Deaf and hard of hearing people who use the hospital.
It’s an opportunity to share insights about the experience of using UCLH services and discussing any improvements that can be made.

Numbers are limited and priority will be for d/Deaf and hard of hearing community members. Hearing members of the community will be selected on a first-come, first-served basis

Please email uclh.ppi@nhs.net and let us know what communication support you may need to attend.

Henna Asian Womens Group
Henna Asian Womens Group provides a range of ways to connect with other people. Our services include exercise, music & singing, ESOL, Art & Craft, Henna Support Group, Chai with Henna and the Wellbeing Hub.
It is also a place for you to also get information and support.

The Henna Asian Womens Group AGM will be on the 5th of December 2022 from 1pm – 3pm. Please call us on 0207 372 9860 to confirm your attendance before 28th November.

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

VAC Cost-of-Living Crisis Resource
VAC recognises that the cost-of-living crisis is a huge concern for families, businesses, and the Voluntary Community Sector.

We are collating information and resources to help community groups and residents in Camden navigate through the crisis. To find out more, click here

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 Support in Camden 

Everyone is likely to need a bit of help this winter, so if you’re struggling, please reach out for help. Camden Council offers support with debt, mental health, food, rising energy bills, finding a job and more.

Learn more here or call Camden Council on 020 7974 4444 (Option 9).

London’s Borough Poverty Profile 2022 

Trust for London has published an analysis of borough-level poverty in London, with new figures covering five years of data up to 2019/20. The report reveals that the impact of housing costs to poverty rates is acutely apparent within London at borough level.

Camden is among the top 10 boroughs where housing costs are having the biggest impact on poverty rates.

Read more here

Community Infrastructure Levy Funds

Closing date: Monday 19th Dec 2022

When new building projects take place in Camden, the developers are usually charged a fee known as the Community Infrastructure Levy. Camden Council is asking for your views and ideas to make sure local CIL funds are spent on the things most important to you.

Have your say here

Camden Estate Parking Changes 

Camden Council wants to hear your views on proposed changes to how parking is managed on Camden Council’s housing estates. The current system means it’s difficult to control parking on estates, and permit holders find it increasingly difficult to find a parking space.

Have your say on proposed changes here

Camden Local Plan Review 

Work has started on reviewing the Camden Local Plan 2017, which provides the framework for managing development in the borough. This is your opportunity to shape the future of Camden.

The engagement on the Local Plan Review is open from the 4th November 2022 to the 13th January 2023. This will inform the preparation of a draft Local Plan to be published in 2023.

Click here to have your say.

Local Newsletters:

SHAK
Young Camden Foundation (Funding Newsletter)
Young Camden Foundation (Events and Training 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)
Abbey Community Centre Newsletter
Heath Hands

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

BBC Children in Need: Emergency Essentials 

The BBC Children in Need Emergency Essentials Programme grants items to vulnerable children and young people facing a crisis, such as a bed to sleep in, or a cooker to provide a hot meal. In response to the cost-of-living crisis, the programme has introduced new items to form an individual package of support, tailored to each household’s needs. The new items include small kitchen appliances and items to help keep the individual warm.

Learn more here

CDA Social and Community Fund
Closing date: 1st December 2022
Central District Alliance have launched the second round of the Social and Community Fund via ActionFunder. The fund will support charities and organisations in Camden with grants of up to £3,000.
Learn more here

BBC Children in Need Core Costs Grant
BBC Children in Need is offering core cost grants to support essential organisational and administrative spending. Core costs include key expenses required to keep your organisation running. This funding stream has no application deadline – you can apply at any time.

Learn more here

Lloyd’s of London Foundation Grant

Closing date: 11th December 2022
Applications are now open for the Lloyd’s of London Foundation’s 2023 charity partnerships – this is an opportunity for charities to apply for a grant to support projects in the areas of employability, social mobility, mental health, climate and disaster avoidance and relief.
Learn more here

The Hampstead Wells and Campden Trust 

The principal objectives of The Hampstead Wells and Campden Trust are the alleviation of poverty and the advancement of health in the Trust’s area of benefit. They make grants to organisations, individuals and families.

Learn more here

North London Community Fund 

Closing date: 11pm on 16th December 2022

NLWA has established the North London Community Fund to support waste prevention initiatives in the north London area. This fund provides community-based (non-profit making) organisations with funding to develop new approaches to reduce waste and/or extend the reach and impact of existing waste prevention activity in north London.

Learn more here

Camden Childcare Grant 

If you’re a lone parent in Camden and you’re interested in looking for a new job, to re-enter employment, or want to expand your skillset by attending training or education sessions, you may be eligible for a grant worth up to £1,500 to cover childcare costs while attending job interviews, training or education sessions.

Learn more here

Propel Funding
Propel is a new fund launched by London Funders to enable organisations to explore, develop and lead collaborative approaches to tackle some of London’s biggest challenges. It has three priorities: A New Deal for Young People; Building Strong Communities and Robust Safety Net.
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

Gambling and Related Harms Webinar 

Tuesday 29th Nov: 10 – 11.30am

The subject of gambling and its associated harms is acknowledged by experts as a serious health issue, with far reaching consequences. It negatively affects finances, mental health and relationships, not just for the gambler but for the those around them. If you would like to know more about gambling addiction and related harms, please join this free, CPD-accredited webinar.

Sign up here

Inclusive Education: Unheard Voices Panel 
Tuesday 6th Dec at the Greenwood Centre: 5:30 – 8pm

Inclusive Education: Unheard Voices is an event for SEN/education professionals and social care workers, organised by young people with learning disabilities and concerning their experience in education. The panel will feature young people, SEN specialists and an audience discussion.
Register your free place here

St Pancras Community Association Christmas Fayre 

Saturday 10th Dec at 67 Plender Street: 11am – 4pm

SPCA is excited to announce their first ever Christmas Fayre. Bring your family and enjoy a whole host of festivities, including stalls, music, food, drinks and Santa’s Grotto.

Learn more here

Castlehaven Community Association: WinterFest Returns  

Friday 9th Dec: 3:30 – 7pm

Castlehaven Community Association’s festive extravaganza, WinterFest, is returning! Come along for a jam-packed afternoon of festive fun, stalls, performances and a mince pie or two.

If you’re a local business, organisation or community group that would like to run a stall, perform or volunteer at WinterFest, please contact info@castlehaven.co.uk

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.

Castlehaven Community Association Vacancies 

Closing date: 5th December

Environmental Project Assistant (FT – £24k)

Health Haven Community Health Worker (FT – £27k)

Health Haven Project Manager (FT –  £33k)
Learn more and apply here

VoiceAbility: Peer Mentors Needed 

VoiceAbility is urgently seeking volunteers to support people who are struggling with their mental health in Camden. Are you a good listener, non-judgemental, empathetic & understanding? Do you have lived experience of mental health challenges? If so, you could volunteer as a Peer Mentor.

Learn more here or contact volunteering@voiceability.org

Compost Newham Vacancies 

Compost Newham is recruiting two roles to lead its Compost Newham project, a bespoke programme of working to support Newham’s Voluntary, Community and Faith Sector to grow and thrive. The work aims to offer a programme of development support including: capacity building, network development, events and training and building cross-sector relationships.

For more information, click here or contact mailto:anne@compostlondon.org.uk

Healthwatch Camden Vacancy: Research & Administrative Officer (PT) 

Healthwatch Camden is hiring a part-time Research & Administrative Officer to work on providing an information service for Healthwatch Camden, helping to ensure that it is readily accessible, and effectively directing people to the support or advice they need.

To apply, email your CV to info@healthwatchcamden.co.uk

SPCA Vacancy: Community Cafe Manager (PT) 

SPCA are seeking someone to manage and run their Community Café and team of volunteers. The manager will also promote the café in the community by arranging activities in the café setting.

To learn more and apply, click here

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 call/text  “Long Covid Research’’ on 07721520243.

London Community Foundation: Community Heroes

The London Community Foundation is calling for community groups to celebrate their staff and volunteers. To get involved, share a photograph of your nominated staff member with a few words about the person and why they are a hero. Use the hashtag #HeroesOfLondon and tag @London_cf on Twitter.

Learn more here

Health and Wellbeing Benefits of Outdoor Interventions 

Natural England is leading a cross-government research project to understand how practitioners, policy makers and providers evaluate the health and wellbeing benefits of outdoor interventions. This work aims to better understand current approaches to evaluations, and how data on the health and wellbeing benefits can be collected more effectively and consistently to support decision-making.

Share your thoughts in a survey here

WAVE in a Box Resource 

WAVE in a Box is a resource created by WAVE for Change that offers support to those who want to create activities for people with and without learning disabilities to socialise together. This includes online resources packed with learning, downloadable assets and practical guidance. You will receive membership to WAVEmaker Forum, where you can meet like-minded people who want to see more vibrant, mixed-ability activities in their communities.

Learn more here

‘Warm Welcome’ Spaces in Camden 

To help everyone stay warm this winter, ‘warm welcome’ spaces are available across Camden. You’ll find them in libraries, children’s centres and other community buildings across the borough. Everyone is invited to come in, relax and meet up with others in a safe and warm place.

Find a warm space here

Single Parent of Biracial Children Support Group 
IamIrish welcomes single parents of biracial children of Irish descent to join an online support group. Groups take place once a week and are free and child-friendly.
To sign up, contact Murray at community@iamirish.org

Community Kitchen & Warm Space  

SPCA are proud to announce the opening of their new Community Kitchen & Warm Space at St Pancras Community Association, 67 Plender Street. Come alone or with your family to get a free meal and join in with activities.

To learn more, click here

SPCA Boutique: Winter Warmers 

Free winter clothes are available at a new boutique on the ground floor of St Pancras Community Association, 67 Plender Street.

Donations of clean winter clothes and blankets are welcomed.

To learn more, click here

Winter Wellness Project 

The Elizabeth House Winter Wellness Project supports older council tenants to keep warm and well during the winter. From October 2022, if you are over 65, Elizabeth House can help you access grants and support to keep your home warm, access flu jabs, learn about local activities and more.

For more information, click here

Past Voluntary Action Forums: Resources

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

Our mailing address is:
Greenwood Centre, Greenwood Place, London, NW5 1LB

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