Category: Newsletter

Government funding package latest

The latest update on the government funding package for charities is that funding for small charities delivering essential front-line covid-19 support will, where possible, be delivered locally – more details as soon as we have them.  This is in addition to funds being distributed though Awards for All and an adapted Reaching Communities fund – details here National Lottery Community Fund (6 months – £10,000 to £100,000). Other funders are still creating new funding opportunities (see links under Funding), such as the Big Local £50,000 fund being distributed in Somers Town by the ST Big Local.

Our Letter Urging Support for the Sector

VAC has written a letter to the CNJ urging both central and local government to ensure that there is sufficient support for the many voluntary and community organisations that have responded to the Covid-19 emergency.  Read it here.

Camden Voluntary Action Online Forum

Thanks to all who came to the forum yesterday and shared updates and news.  There was a clear agreement that the next one (on Wednesday 20th May at 11am) should look at how we re-shape services and the challenge of bringing online and offline together in the future.  Details to follow.

Keep in Touch:

Pop Up Think and Do
The South Hampstead and Kilburn Community Partnership (SHAK)
Talk for Health
ACAS

Healthwatch Camden’s Covid-19 Survey

How are people accessing information needed to stay well, how health and care services have changed since the Covid-19 outbreak, and how covid-19 is affecting other aspects of health and wellbeing?
https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/healthwatchcamdencovid-19  or call 020 7383 2402 to complete the survey over the phone if you are not online. Particularly interested to hear from: people for whom English isn’t first language, those with a communication support need, people who are BAME (esp. Black African and older Bangladeshi men), men, under 24s, and 55+.
New info on the website:
1) who is eligible for a Covid-19 test and how to get one?
2) Blog encouraging people to use NHS services following concerning drop in attendances.

Covid-19 Resources

VAC has gathered relevant resources on a range of topics.
Notable recent additions include:

• Youth Endowment Fund £6.5m COVID-19 grant round now open
• Refugee Council updates on Changes to Asylum & Resettlement policy
• VAC briefing on safeguarding essentials during COVID-19
• Useful resources from Women’s Aid
• What Does My Faith Group Currently Advise?

VAC COVID-19 Pages

Covid-19 Community Directory  (Update your entry here)
Covid-19 Update page.
Covid-19 Resources page

Keep in touch and up-to-date via the e-bulletin and @onecamden twitter.  We have a comprehensive COVID-19 update page and a resources page.

The Best Articles this Week

Lack of help for charities will do ‘untold damage’, MPs warn
Committee of MPs calls on Government to provide more support for charities
The Covid-19 crisis and charities – Parliamentary Report

Government funding package

The government revealed their funding package for charities, of which £370 million will be available for small charities delivering essential frontline COVID-19 related services for vulnerable people through the Community fund. Details of the fund are now on the National Lottery Community Fund website. Small funding (up to £10,000) is still being distributed by Awards for All.  Further local distribution is planned – details to follow.

Somers Town Big Local Covid-19 Emergency Fund

Grants up to £1500 aimed at responding to the Covid-19 emergency in Somers Town.  Telephone 020 8364 8400 to book a telephone appointment. Deadline Monday 25th May.  engagement@stbl.org.uk

Hampstead Wells & Campden Trust

is a small funder that can assist organisations in NW3, NW6 and Camden parts of NW2. During the COVID-19 crisis we are working to provide support for individuals and families in need through small grants for emergencies (applications only through a local organisation or agency, see our website), and for organisations coping with different demands on their services and new ways of working (contact sheila@hwct.co.uk for an informal chat first).

All Ways Network

Useful funding resources and AWN are offering Muslim charities free bid writing support.  Details here.

How to fund Mutual Aid groups

Tuesday 5 May, 11am-12pm
an online session for any groups that are interested in learning more about how they can fund their COVID-19 community projects. Book at Eventbrite

London Community Response

The second wave of London Community Response funding is open.
1. Crisis response – grants up to £10,000 to meet the immediate needs
2. Delivering differently – grants of £10,000 to £50,000 to change how you work

Lists of Emergency Funders

• Civil Society
• Ian McLintok’s LinkedIn blog
• NCVO’s funding central site is currently free for non-members.
• Charity Bank 
• Grants Online

Youth Futures Foundation

The Foundation is committed to transforming employment for young people.
Funding is for a 6-12 month period of planning and set up from September 2020 onwards, during which time no direct delivery to young people will be required. This will be followed by funding for a delivery phase from January 2021 onwards, by which time we hope face to face work will be possible again.

Digital & Tech Support Online Q&A

Tuesday, 21st April, 2 – 3.30pm
Many organisations are having to grapple with moving their office systems online so staff and volunteers can work remotely.We’ll look at:
~ What systems do you need?
~ How do you set them up?
~ What works and what doesn’t?
Q&A session with Gilbert Plant, our digital partner from CITA and WCIT.
Joining details here: https://vac.org.uk/events/
Email alexcharles@vac.org.uk

These sessions will be hosted on zoom.  Ideally you will need a PC, laptop, tablet or smartphone with camera or microphone but you can also join by telephone as well. Click on the link or use the meeting ID.  You will also need the 4 digit password. Short guide to joining a zoom meeting.

Safeguarding Courses:

VAC is working with funders so that safeguarding courses can continue online.  Further details to come. There are some basic safeguarding videos on the home page and on the COVID19 Update page.
Tel: 020 7 284 6575 | Email: dogunyemi@vac.org.uk email (Mon – Wed)

More details on the VAC website: https://vac.org.uk/events/

Camden Events

All face-to-face events are cancelled for now. Many groups and organisations have moved their activity online.  Check the Covid-19 Directory or go to the organisation’s webpage, or facebood, twitter or instagram page. For exampe WEP have a newsletter with online and virtual activities.

Get Involved: Online talks for Kentish Town

A new series of talks, each episode will focus on a community organisation with the aim of raising awareness of their activities, and telling their story in a way that connects with the audience. It is an opportunity to reach locals who would benefit from their
services and also those in a position to support the organisation in some way. For further information email hello@get-involved.org.uk

Free training courses

Training Link has free online courses that people can do at home.  Improve your skills during the lockdown! The courses include Level 2
Food Safety & Hygiene, Customer Care, courses for care work and others. They can be done on a PC or laptop with internet access. For
more information, email Peter Lush on director@traininglink.org.uk

Ageing Better in Camden

ABC are collecting a wealth of resources to keep us entertained, happy, healthy and creative during this time. If you’d like to suggest a resource to add. Please email ageingbetterincamden@ageukcamden.org.uk with your ideas.

Local history Live film screening

An online event on the evening of Tuesday 12th May. It is a screening of a film about Somers Town followed by questions and answers with the film-maker, Diana Foster. Full details of the event and how to book your place can be found here: https://www.camden.gov.uk/local-history-exhibitions-and-events#eenn

Virtual Gallery Project for 13-18 year olds

What: Collaborate with other young people and older community members to produce digital artwork documenting your lockdown experience and then curate your own online exhibition.
Weekly on Wednesdays 4-6pm, starting 29th April, (via online Zoom sessions)
More info and sign up with chloe.plumb@holborncommunity.co.uk

Free Online Social Activities Directory

The RecommendMe directory is where people  can search for social activities, events and other things to do.  Includes: Carers art groups on Zoom, Carers online cuppa, Over 60s Peer to peer befriending,  Virtual creative writing for the over 60s, Gardening workshops on Zoom, Boost your emotional strength, Make and mend (chat and stitch) groups.

How to Volunteer and How to Recruit Volunteers in Camden

Volunteer in Camden at Time to Spare.
Volunteer for the NHS at GoodSAM.
Join a neighbourhood Mutual Aid group.
Organisations that are signed up to Time to Spare can now request volunteers through a brokerage team much it much easier to access the volunteers.
Get support and resources from Volunteer Centre Camden
The council has a  page of resources to help community organisations

Henna Asian Women’s Group is seeking a Finance trustee

to join the Governance of our charity. Working alongside our effective Trustee Board and staff team this Trustee will take responsibility for finance and work closely with Henna’s Treasurer, to oversee and explain budgets, accounts and annual financial statements to the board of trustees. The Finance trustee will lead the board’s duty to ensure that proper accounting records are kept, financial resources are properly controlled, invested and economically spent, in line with good governance, legal and regulatory requirements. Alongside the development and implementation of financial reserves, cost management and investment policies.
They will be equipped to monitor and advise on the financial viability of the charity and oversee the implementation of monitoring specific financial controls and adherence to systems.
The trustee will also advise on the financial implications of the charity’s strategic plan, alongside overseeing the charity’s financial risk management process.
For further information please contact Rafat on rafat_hennaorg@yahoo.co.uk

Paid work opportunities for people who have been laid off/ reduced income

Local Adult social care providers are still recruiting, and as they support the NHS to move vulnerable adults out of hospital to stay well at home, their need is growing. Contact Proud to Care.

Camden Social Prescribing and Care Navigation update

Social Prescribing and Care Navigation delivered by Age UK Camden, Voluntary Action Camden and Wish+ is operational, and adapted, as a point of access to services and support during the COVID 19 emergency.
We are aiming to connect residents with emerging support in their local areas where there is appropriate provision.
If local community organisations are contacted by residents with more complex needs than they can support please refer to Community Links and we will work with the Care Navigation and Wish+ teams to find the support needed. Referral form can be found here. Minimum requirements are contact details and permission to contact the person needing support.
All the usual routes in to the service apply via Community Links at VAC:
Freephone: 0800 193 6067 (please leave a message if no answer. Staff are using other phones to call back and keep this one free)
Secure NHS email (referrals only): camccg.socialprescribingreferral@nhs.net
Community Links email (enquiries and referrals): communitylinks@vac.org.uk

SHP Camden Recovery Service & Islington Aftercare

We are here to support Camden and Islington residents who are in recovery from substance use issues. We help individuals to explore their education, training, volunteering and employment goals and work with them to develop a personal plan to help achieve them.
Whilst our Camden Square offices are currently closed, we are still available to offer tailored 1:1 support via telephone and online. In addition our clients will have access to our online group programmes which include a weekly women’s group, recovery group and personal development workshops.
Within the service we have a team of Peer Mentors, who use their lived experience of overcoming substance use issues to support our clients along their recovery journeys. We are always keen to hear from individuals who have been abstinent from problematic substance use for over 6 months and are interested in becoming a Peer Mentor Volunteers themselves.
For more information about any of the above please contact 020 7520 8682, camdenrecoveryservice@shp.org.uk or islingtonaftercare@shp.org.uk.

Our mailing address is:
Charlie Ratchford Centre, Belmont Street, London, NW1 8HF

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

Government funding package

We now have the details of the government funding package for charities, of which £370 million will be available for small charities delivering essential front-line covid-19 support.  More details are on the National Lottery Community Fund website. They aim to fund projects that are specifically aimed at the covid-19 relief effort over the next 6 months in the £10,000 to £100,000 range.

Next Camden Voluntary Action Online Forum

Wednesday, 6th May, 11am
Please come along to the second forum where we will be meeting on zoom and hearing from you on how you have been adapting and also what local connections have you made?  The Community Links team will give an update on referral demands. There will also be an opportunity to link up with others
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89701352299?pwd=QWYzbWNOQkw3K1UybFJBd09zQU16UT09
Meeting ID: 897 0135 2299
Password: 1907
Not online? Join by phone: 020 3481 5240

May Day Greetings

Ironically in the year when workers’ contribution to society has never been more obvious there will be no May Day this year.  The May Day bank holiday has been switched from Monday 4th to Friday 8th May.  The switch was made by Royal Proclamation after many diaries had gone to press so printed diaries may be wrong.  The switch was intended to commemorate VE Day with street parties, pub toasts and bell ringing, but due to social distancing these have been cancelled (the only other time May Day was switched was also to commemorate VE Day in 1995).   Torriano Meeting house is still celebrating May Day with poems from Camden poet, Dinah Livingston – Commons and Rety.

Keep in Touch:

NCL CCG Newsletter
North London Cares
West Euston Partnership
Ageing Better in Camden
Camden Pop Up Think and Do
Young Camden Foundation

Healthwatch Camden’s Covid-19 Survey

How are people accessing information needed to stay well, how health and care services have changed since the Covid-19 outbreak, and how covid-19 is affecting other aspects of health and wellbeing?
https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/healthwatchcamdencovid-19  or call 020 7383 2402 to complete the survey over the phone if you are not online.

Covid-19 Resources

VAC has gathered relevant resources on a range of topics.
Notable recent additions include:

• VAC briefing on safeguarding essentials during COVID-19
• Banks Launch Helplines for Over 70s
• What Does My Faith Group Currently Advise?
• Public Health advice for Ramadan
• Our Front Line is a new hub of resources for front line workers
• Guidance for households with grandparents, parents & children together

VAC COVID-19 Pages

Covid-19 Community Directory  (Update your entry here)
Covid-19 Update page.
Covid-19 Resources page

Keep in touch and up-to-date via the e-bulletin and @onecamden twitter.  We have a comprehensive COVID-19 update page and a resources page.

The Best Articles this Week

Plan C: From Mutual Aid to Dual Power: how do we build a new world?
Digital divide ‘isolates and endangers’ millions of UK’s poorest
Bank of England provides £7.5 billion in big business bailouts
Reweaving the social fabric after the crisis
The war on coronavirus should be led by councils.
Solidarity at the time of COVID-19: An(other) digital revolution?
Charity Tax Group calls for reform to small grants system (about £4 billion of the £12 billion allocated has not been spent and could go to charities)

Government funding package

The government revealed their funding package for charities, of which £370 million will be available for small charities delivering essential frontline COVID-19 related services for vulnerable people through the Community fund. Details of the fund are now on the National Lottery Community Fund website.

Hampstead Wells & Campden Trust

is a small funder that can assist organisations in NW3, NW6 and Camden parts of NW2. During the COVID-19 crisis we are working to provide support for individuals and families in need through small grants for emergencies (applications only through a local organisation or agency, see our website), and for organisations coping with different demands on their services and new ways of working (contact sheila@hwct.co.uk for an informal chat first).

All Ways Network

Useful funding resources and AWN are offering Muslim charities free bid writing support.  Details here.

How to fund Mutual Aid groups

Tuesday 5 May, 11am-12pm
an online session for any groups that are interested in learning more about how they can fund their COVID-19 community projects. Book at Eventbrite

London Community Response

The second wave of London Community Response funding is open.
1. Crisis response – grants up to £10,000 to meet the immediate needs
2. Delivering differently – grants of £10,000 to £50,000 to change how you work

Lists of Emergency Funders

• Civil Society
• Ian McLintok’s LinkedIn blog
• NCVO’s funding central site is currently free for non-members.
• Charity Bank 
• Grants Online

Youth Futures Foundation

The Foundation is committed to transforming employment for young people.
Funding is for a 6-12 month period of planning and set up from September 2020 onwards, during which time no direct delivery to young people will be required. This will be followed by funding for a delivery phase from January 2021 onwards, by which time we hope face to face work will be possible again.

Next Camden Voluntary Action Online Forum

Wednesday, 6th May, 11am
Please come along to the second forum where we will be meeting on zoom and hearing from you on how you have been adapting and also what local connections have you made?  The Community Links team will give an update on referral demands. There will also be an opportunity to link up with others
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89701352299?pwd=QWYzbWNOQkw3K1UybFJBd09zQU16UT09
Meeting ID: 897 0135 2299
Password: email knunan@vac.org.uk for password
Not online? Join by phone: 020 3481 5240

Digital & Tech Support Online Q&A

Tuesday, 21st April, 2 – 3.30pm
Many organisations are having to grapple with moving their office systems online so staff and volunteers can work remotely.We’ll look at:
~ What systems do you need?
~ How do you set them up?
~ What works and what doesn’t?
Q&A session with Gilbert Plant, our digital partner from CITA and WCIT.
Joining details here: https://vac.org.uk/events/
Email alexcharles@vac.org.uk

These sessions will be hosted on zoom.  Ideally you will need a PC, laptop, tablet or smartphone with camera or microphone but you can also join by telephone as well. Click on the link or use the meeting ID.  You will also need the 4 digit password. Short guide to joining a zoom meeting.

Safeguarding Courses:

VAC is working with funders so that safeguarding courses can continue online.  Further details to come. There are some basic safeguarding videos on the home page and on the COVID19 Update page.
Tel: 020 7 284 6575 | Email: dogunyemi@vac.org.uk email (Mon – Wed)

More details on the VAC website: https://vac.org.uk/events/

Camden Events

All face-to-face events are cancelled for now. Many groups and organisations have moved their activity online.  Check the Covid-19 Directory or go to the organisation’s webpage, or facebood, twitter or instagram page. For exampe WEP have a newsletter with online and virtual activities.

Local history Live film screening

An online event on the evening of Tuesday 12th May. It is a screening of a film about Somers Town followed by questions and answers with the film-maker, Diana Foster. Full details of the event and how to book your place can be found here: https://www.camden.gov.uk/local-history-exhibitions-and-events#eenn

Virtual Gallery Project for 13-18 year olds

What: Collaborate with other young people and older community members to produce digital artwork documenting your lockdown experience and then curate your own online exhibition.
Weekly on Wednesdays 4-6pm, starting 29th April, (via online Zoom sessions)
More info and sign up with chloe.plumb@holborncommunity.co.uk

Free Online Social Activities Directory

The RecommendMe directory is where people with support needs can search for social activities, events and other things to do.  Includes: Carers art groups on Zoom, Carers online cuppa, Over 60s Peer to peer befriending,  Virtual creative writing for the over 60s, Gardening workshops on Zoom, Boost your emotional strength, Make and mend (chat and stitch) groups. Activities are being added weekly. Events are organised by voluntary organisations and other groups in Camden.

How to Volunteer and How to Recruit Volunteers in Camden

Volunteer in Camden at Time to Spare.
Volunteer for the NHS at GoodSAM.
Join a neighbourhood Mutual Aid group.
Organisations can sign up to Time to Spare and request access and you will then be able to recruit volunteers directly.
Get support and resources from Volunteer Centre Camden
The council has a  page of resources to help community organisations

Paid work opportunities for people who have been laid off/ reduced income

Local Adult social care providers are still recruiting, and as they support the NHS to move vulnerable adults out of hospital to stay well at home, their need is growing. Contact Proud to Care.

Camden Social Prescribing and Care Navigation update

Social Prescribing and Care Navigation delivered by Age UK Camden, Voluntary Action Camden and Wish+ is operational, and adapted, as a point of access to services and support during the COVID 19 emergency.
We are aiming to connect residents with emerging support in their local areas where there is appropriate provision.
If local community organisations are contacted by residents with more complex needs than they can support please refer to Community Links and we will work with the Care Navigation and Wish+ teams to find the support needed. Referral form can be found here. Minimum requirements are contact details and permission to contact the person needing support.
All the usual routes in to the service apply via Community Links at VAC:
Freephone: 0800 193 6067 (please leave a message if no answer. Staff are using other phones to call back and keep this one free)
Secure NHS email (referrals only): camccg.socialprescribingreferral@nhs.net
Community Links email (enquiries and referrals): communitylinks@vac.org.uk

SHP Camden Recovery Service & Islington Aftercare

We are here to support Camden and Islington residents who are in recovery from substance use issues. We help individuals to explore their education, training, volunteering and employment goals and work with them to develop a personal plan to help achieve them.
Whilst our Camden Square offices are currently closed, we are still available to offer tailored 1:1 support via telephone and online. In addition our clients will have access to our online group programmes which include a weekly women’s group, recovery group and personal development workshops.
Within the service we have a team of Peer Mentors, who use their lived experience of overcoming substance use issues to support our clients along their recovery journeys. We are always keen to hear from individuals who have been abstinent from problematic substance use for over 6 months and are interested in becoming a Peer Mentor Volunteers themselves.
For more information about any of the above please contact 020 7520 8682, camdenrecoveryservice@shp.org.uk or islingtonaftercare@shp.org.uk.

Our mailing address is:
Charlie Ratchford Centre, Belmont Street, London, NW1 8HF

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

Government funding package

The government revealed their funding package for charities, of which £370 million will be available for small charities delivering essential frontline COVID-19 related services for vulnerable people through the Community fund. Acevo have written notes about this funding based on a call with sector leaders and DCMS officials. NCVO have also written a blog about the fund. We will update you again as soon as we know how to access the funds.

Covid-19 Resources

VAC has gathered relevant resources on a range of topics:Local Support Directories

• General Support Resources for Charities
• Templates
• Funding
• Food
• Remote Working and Tech Support
• Finance
• Personal Finance
• Employees and HR
• Furloughing Staff (Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme)
• Volunteering
• Helping Neighbours
• Health and Well-Being

Notable recent additions include:

• A new resource section on Food
• Camden announces £3million hardship fund for residents
• Latest PPE Guidance from Camden and Islington Public Health
• National Lottery Awards for All £300 to £10,000
• Translations from Healthwatch, Doctors of the World and the council.
• A list of emergency grants for individuals

VAC COVID-19 Pages

Covid-19 Community Directory  (Update your entry here)
Covid-19 Update page.
Covid-19 Resources page

Keep in touch and up-to-date via the e-bulletin and @onecamden twitter.  We have a comprehensive COVID-19 update page and a resources page.

A million volunteer to help NHS and others during Covid-19 outbreak

One of the pandemic’s legacies could be an injection of youth into volunteering sector according to the Guardian.

London Community Response

The second wave of London Community Response funding is open.
1. Crisis response – grants up to £10,000 to meet the immediate needs
2. Delivering differently – grants of £10,000 to £50,000 to change how you work

Lists of Emergency Funders

• Civil Society
• Ian McLintok’s LinkedIn blog
• NCVO’s funding central site is currently free for non-members.
• Charity Bank 
• Grants Online

Youth Futures Foundation

The Foundation is committed to transforming employment for young people.
Funding is for a 6-12 month period of planning and set up from September 2020 onwards, during which time no direct delivery to young people will be required. This will be followed by funding for a delivery phase from January 2021 onwards, by which time we hope face to face work will be possible again.

Furlough Scheme Online Workshop

Monday 20th April, 11am – Noon
The HMRC portal opens on Monday for applications to the Government’s Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) better known as the furlough scheme. This is a chance to share your thoughts and ask questions if you are thinking of making use of the furlough scheme. Particularly focussing on charity issues: Public Funding; double funding; volunteering
Contact Kevin for joining details: knunan@vac.org.uk

Digital & Tech Support Online Q&A

Tuesday, 21st April, 2 – 3.30pm
Many organisations are having to grapple with moving their office systems online so staff and volunteers can work remotely.We’ll look at:
~ What systems do you need?
~ How do you set them up?
~ What works and what doesn’t?
Q&A session with Gilbert Plant, our digital partner from CITA and WCIT.
Email alexcharles@vac.org.uk for joining instructions.

Camden Voluntary Action Online Forum

Wednesday, 22nd April, 11am – Noon
This online forum is open to all Camden voluntary and community  groups and organisation – both existing and new.  A chance to catch up with the latest situation in Camden and to share what you are doing in response to the current situation.  All will be invited to share a 2 minutes update. The forum will start with a 5 minute update from VAC on the latest situation in Camden and the sector’s role in the national response.
Contact Kevin for joining details: knunan@vac.org.uk

These sessions will be hosted on zoom.  Ideally you will need a PC, laptop or tablet with camera or microphone but you can also join by telephone as well. Click on the link or use the meeting ID.  You will also need the 4 digit password. Short guide to joining a zoom meeting.

Safeguarding Courses:

VAC is working with funders so that safeguarding courses can continue online.  Further details to come. There are some basic safeguarding videos on the home page and on the COVID19 Update page.
Tel: 020 7 284 6575 | Email: dogunyemi@vac.org.uk email (Mon – Wed)

More details on the VAC website: https://vac.org.uk/events/

Camden Events

All face-to-face events are cancelled for now. Many groups and organisations have moved their activity online.  Check the Covid-19 Directory or go to the organisation’s webpage, or facebood, twitter or instagram page. For exampe WEP have a newsletter with online and virtual activities.

How to Volunteer and How to Recruit Volunteers in Camden

Volunteer in Camden at Time to Spare.
Volunteer for the NHS at GoodSAM.
Join a neighbourhood Mutual Aid group.
Organisations can sign up to Time to Spare and request access and you will then be able to recruit volunteers directly.
Get support and resources from Volunteer Centre Camden
The council has a  page of resources to help community organisations

Age UK Camden seeks Emergency Food Parcels Project Volunteer

You will be assisting our efforts to ensure that our services continue to support older people in Camden during this time of a Coronavirus Pandemic.
You will need to give us 2-4 hours of your time a week/fortnight and also
~ Complete our volunteer application form
~ Attend an induction meeting
Register: 020 7239 0400 or emailing   info@ageukcamden.org.uk

Paid work opportunities for people who have been laid off/ reduced income

Local Adult social care providers are still recruiting, and as they support the NHS to move vulnerable adults out of hospital to stay well at home, their need is growing. Contact Proud to Care.

Camden Social Prescribing and Care Navigation update

Social Prescribing and Care Navigation delivered by Age UK Camden, Voluntary Action Camden and Wish+ is operational, and adapted, as a point of access to services and support during the COVID 19 emergency.
We are aiming to connect residents with emerging support in their local areas where there is appropriate provision.
If local community organisations are contacted by residents with more complex needs than they can support please refer to Community Links and we will work with the Care Navigation and Wish+ teams to find the support needed. Referral form can be found here. Minimum requirements are contact details and permission to contact the person needing support.
All the usual routes in to the service apply via Community Links at VAC:
Freephone: 0800 193 6067 (please leave a message if no answer. Staff are using other phones to call back and keep this one free)
Secure NHS email (referrals only): camccg.socialprescribingreferral@nhs.net
Community Links email (enquiries and referrals): communitylinks@vac.org.uk

Our mailing address is:
Charlie Ratchford Centre, Belmont Street, London, NW1 8HF

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

London Community Response

The second wave of London Community Response funding is open.
1. Crisis response – grants up to £10,000 to meet the immediate needs
2. Delivering differently – grants of £10,000 to £50,000 to change how you work

Government Announcements

Announcement from the Chancellor of a package of support to the Charity sector. Headlines here.  Summary from Civil Society and Politics Home.
Letter from the Prime Minister to all households.

Take the Young Camden Foundation Survey

YCV has launched a Covid19 needs assessment for organisations working with Children and Young people in Camden. https://surveyhero.com/c/685c9c89

Camden COVID-19 Community Directory

Please keep the Covid-19 Community Directory updated.  Give your update here. Your response will appear in the Covid-19 Community Directory and will automatically update the Council’s new Get Help directory.

Coronavirus COVID-19 –  Update Page

Find information and advice as it becomes available on our COVID-19 Update page. There is also a separate resources page full of useful information.

How to Volunteer and How to Recruit Volunteers in Camden

Volunteer in Camden at Time to Spare.
Volunteer for the NHS at GoodSAM.
Join a neighbourhood Mutual Aid group.
Organisations can sign up to Time to Spare and request access and you will then be able to recruit volunteers directly.
The council has a  page of resources to help community organisations

Hitting ‘pause’ on complaints to get behind the NHS

Healthwatch Camden calls on residents to save details of concerns during
COVID-19 emergency and to ‘Clap for our Carers’ again tonight at 8pm
The NHS announced that the complaints process will be deprioritised to allow front-line workers to focus on saving lives during the COVID-19 emergency.

Bill Gates Plans to ‘Waste’ Billions

Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to spend billions to quickly build seven manufacturing facilities, so that when vaccines for Covid-19 are identified, they can be mass-produced quickly.  However, only 2 will be used. The other 5 factories will be demolished. Gates says wasting billions like this will save lives.
If that’s not enough – Bill Gates also explained why we weren’t ready for the next big pandemic in 2015.

Play the Flu Pandemic Game

As a result of the H1N1 bird flu scare in 2006 Camden Primary Care Trust developed a game to help organisations test their preparedness.  Ideally you need 12 people to play the Flu Pandemic Game.  The game comes with scenarios, score sheets and chance cards.  On a serious note, the game did not assume much virtual working, or a lockdown policy.

See the Funding pages on VAC’s website for all the latest information.

The Neighbourly Community Fund

Its a new fund that aims to distribute small sums (up to £400) quickly.

The Childhood Trust

The Trust is launching a new match-funding campaign offering unrestricted funds to charities working with vulnerable children and young people who have been impacted by the Coronavirus.

The Clothworkers’ Foundation

The Foundation have awarded £1 million to initiatives to help organisations supporting vulnerable and at-risk groups, with a further £1 million to be disbursed in the coming weeks and months. Read more at the website.

Camden Giving Covid-19 Charity Fund

Charities, community groups and social enterprises in Camden are facing a huge surge in demand and cuts to their income. This fund is here to support them to do what they do best and to ensure they are here in the future.

Youth Futures Foundation

The Foundation is committed to transforming employment for young people.
Funding is for a 6-12 month period of planning and set up from September 2020 onwards, during which time no direct delivery to young people will be required. This will be followed by funding for a delivery phase from January 2021 onwards, by which time we hope face to face work will be possible again.

Arts Council Emergency Response Package for #Covid19 crisis.

Arts Council makes £160 million of investment for people and organisations in the cultural sector. Full details here: http://artscouncil.org.uk/covid19

Emergency support fund announced to help community and voluntary organisations

The Greater London Authority and Emergency support fund have raised over £5M from City Bridge Trust Bloomberg etc. The emergency fund will be available to organisations that are facing immediate financial pressures and uncertainty because of coronavirus. This includes increasing demands for services, higher staff absences, fewer volunteers and lower donations for organisations. Full details here.

A Helpful List of Emergency Funders

Charity Professional, Ian McLintock, is maintaining a web page of Emergency Coronvirus Funding resources.

The National Emergencies Trust lunches Coronavirus Appeal

The Trust will collaborate with charities and other bodies to raise and distribute money and support victims at the time of a domestic disaster.  Full details here.

Trustee Training, IT Training etc

All VAC fact-to-face training is suspended for now.  Training will online soon

Safeguarding Courses:

VAC is working with funders to see what can be done online and on webinars so that safeguarding courses can continue where feasible.  Further details to come. There are some basic safeguarding videos on the home page and on the COVID19 Update page.
Tel: 020 7 284 6575 | Email: dogunyemi@vac.org.uk email (Mon – Wed)

More details on the VAC website: https://vac.org.uk/events/

Camden Events

All face-to-face events are cancelled for now. Many groups and organisations have moved their activity online.  Check the Covid-19 Directory or go to the organisation’s webpage.
WEP have a newsletter with online and virtual activities.

Training Link: New Director required

Following the planned retirement of our present director, Training Link, a basic skills training centre in Somers Town, is looking for a new part-time Director to start in August 2020. Must have management experience in a small voluntary sector organisation; experience of policy development, financial management, fund raising in the voluntary sector and recruiting and retaining volunteers.
£35,000 pro-rata for 10 hours a week over at least two days. For an informal discussion about the post, or for an application pack, please email Peter Lush on director@traininglink.org.uk   Closing date: 14 April

Age UK Camden seeks Emergency Food Parcels Project Volunteer

You will be assisting our efforts to ensure that our services continue to support older people in Camden during this time of a Coronavirus Pandemic.
You will need to give us 2-4 hours of your time a week/fortnight and also
~ Complete our volunteer application form
~ Attend an induction meeting
Register: 020 7239 0400 or emailing   info@ageukcamden.org.uk

Paid work opportunities for people who have been laid off/ reduced income

Local Adult social care providers are still recruiting, and as they support the NHS to move vulnerable adults out of hospital to stay well at home, their need is growing. Contact Proud to Care.

Camden Social Prescribing and Care Navigation update

Social Prescribing and Care Navigation delivered by Age UK Camden, Voluntary Action Camden and Wish+ is operational, and adapted, as a point of access to services and support during the COVID 19 emergency.
We are aiming to connect residents with emerging support in their local areas where there is appropriate provision.
If local community organisations are contacted by residents with more complex needs than they can support please refer to Community Links and we will work with the Care Navigation and Wish+ teams to find the support needed. Referral form can be found here. Minimum requirements are contact details and permission to contact the person needing support.
All the usual routes in to the service apply via Community Links at VAC:
Freephone: 0800 193 6067 (please leave a message if no answer. Staff are using other phones to call back and keep this one free)
Secure NHS email (referrals only): camccg.socialprescribingreferral@nhs.net
Community Links email (enquiries and referrals): communitylinks@vac.org.uk

Our mailing address is:
Charlie Ratchford Centre, Belmont Street, London, NW1 8HF

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

Camden VCS Organisations Response to COVID-19

Please complete the Covid-19 Community Directory update survey asap or if you’ve done it look out for the update emails that let you auto-update your entry as the situation evolves on the ground.  Give your update here. Your response will appear in the Covid-19 Community Directory and will automatically update the Council’s new Get Help directory.

Coronavirus COVID-19 –  Update Page

VAC is publishing the latest information and advice as it becomes available on our COVID-19 Update page. Updates are dated so that you can see how recent the information is. We will shortly be creating a separate resources page divided into categories to make it easier to find resources.

London Strategic Coordinating Group (LSCG)

London Resilience Partnership has established a COVID-19 London Strategic Coordinating Group (LSCG) to coordinate an effective response to, and recovery from, the outbreak for London. Read the latest update here.
An early priority was assigning designated leads from Fare Share/Felix Project/City Harvest re: food distribution.  Camden’s lead is Anne Elkins anne@thefelixproject.org

Camden Social Prescribing and Care Navigation update

Social Prescribing and Care Navigation delivered by Age UK Camden, Voluntary Action Camden and Wish+ is operational, and adapted, as a point of access to services and support during the COVID 19 emergency.
We are aiming to connect residents with emerging support in their local areas where there is appropriate provision.
If local community organisations are contacted by residents with more complex needs than they can support please refer to Community Links and we will work with the Care Navigation and Wish+ teams to find the support needed. Referral form can be found here. Minimum requirements are contact details and permission to contact the person needing support.
All the usual routes in to the service apply via Community Links at VAC:
Freephone: 0800 193 6067 (please leave a message if no answer. Staff are using other phones to call back and keep this one free)
Secure NHS email (referrals only): camccg.socialprescribingreferral@nhs.net
Community Links email (enquiries and referrals): communitylinks@vac.org.uk

Don’t Miss our Webinar on Getting Online – See Events

Support for community organisations

A page of resources to help the community organisations in Camden

How to Volunteer and How to Recruit Volunteers in Camden

If you want to volunteer to help you can volunteer in Camden at Time to Spare.  You can volunteer for the NHS at GoodSAM.  Or join a neighbourhood Mutual Aid group. Gov.uk has a new page on volunteering opportunities.
The volunteers who have signed up to the Camden Time to Spare website are available to organisations now.  You must sign up to Time to Spare and request access and you will then be able to recruit volunteers directly.

In Financial Trouble?

Let the Council know.

Finance and Your Charity: Navigating the Government Schemes; Managing Solvency

Tuesday 7 April 20201.30 – 3.00
Bates Wells is partnering with NCVO on a webinar to discuss the financing options currently available, employment issues (including the government’s job retention scheme), and managing through the crisis. Book here.

The horror films got it wrong. This virus has turned us into caring neighbours

Across the world, Covid-19 has triggered community action on a vast scale. It’s a powerful riposte to both government and private money.  The Guardian.

See the Funding pages on VAC’s website for all the latest information.

The Childhood Trust

The Trust is launching a new match-funding campaign offering unrestricted funds to charities working with vulnerable children and young people who have been impacted by the Coronavirus.

The Clothworkers’ Foundation

The Foundation have awarded £1 million to initiatives to help organisations supporting vulnerable and at-risk groups, with a further £1 million to be disbursed in the coming weeks and months. Read more at the website.

Camden Giving Covid-19 Charity Fund

Charities, community groups and social enterprises in Camden are facing a huge surge in demand and cuts to their income. This fund is here to support them to do what they do best and to ensure they are here in the future.

Youth Futures Foundation

The Foundation is committed to transforming employment for young people.
Funding is for a 6-12 month period of planning and set up from September 2020 onwards, during which time no direct delivery to young people will be required. This will be followed by funding for a delivery phase from January 2021 onwards, by which time we hope face to face work will be possible again.

Arts Council Emergency Response Package for #Covid19 crisis.

Arts Council makes £160 million of investment for people and organisations in the cultural sector. Full details here: http://artscouncil.org.uk/covid19

Emergency support fund announced to help community and voluntary organisations

The Greater London Authority and Emergency support fund have raised over £5M from City Bridge Trust Bloomberg etc. The emergency fund will be available to organisations that are facing immediate financial pressures and uncertainty because of coronavirus. This includes increasing demands for services, higher staff absences, fewer volunteers and lower donations for organisations. Full details here.

£1m available to fund urgent small-charity coronavirus poverty relief

Martin Lewis is releasing £1M from his charity fund to provide grants of £5,000 to £20,000 to small registered charities, or local arms of bigger charities, across the UK – to help with specific UK coronavirus-related poverty relief projects.
Examples could include foodbanks, charities engaged in community aid, financial advice help and more. The hope is to get the money distributed within the next couple of weeks. Full details here.

A Helpful List of Emergency Funders

Charity Professional, Ian McLintock, is maintaining a web page of Emergency Coronvirus Funding resources.

The National Emergencies Trust lunches Coronavirus Appeal

The Trust will collaborate with charities and other bodies to raise and distribute money and support victims at the time of a domestic disaster.  Full details here.

Trustee Training, IT Training etc

All VAC fact-to-face training is suspended for now.  Training will online soon

Getting Your Office Systems on Line and Remote Working

Tuesday, April 7, 2020  2:00 – 3.30pm
In the midst of the Covid-19 crisis and trying to support service-users during lockdown, many organisations are also having to grapple with getting their office systems setup in such a way so that staff and volunteers can work from home remotely, where possible. There are many challenges:
~ What systems do you need?
~ How do you set them up?
~ What works and what doesn’t?
This session will provide an opportunity for us to come together to appraise systems like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Hangouts, phone systems etc.
It will be a Q&A session facilitated by Gilbert Plant, who is suppporting VAC and the IT and Digital Capacity Programme via CITA and WCIT.
This is an online video conference call using Google Hangouts. Ideally you will need to have access to a webcam and microphone, but you can just join by phone if you don’t have access to these.
Once you have signed up via EventBrite you will receive an invite to the meeting the day before the session..

Safeguarding Courses:

VAC is working with funders to see what can be done online and on webinars so that safeguarding courses can continue where feasible.  Further details to come. There are some basic safeguarding videos on the home page and on the COVID19 Update page.
Tel: 020 7 284 6575 | Email: dogunyemi@vac.org.uk email (Mon – Wed)

More details on the VAC website: https://vac.org.uk/events/

Camden Events

All face-to-face events are cancelled for now.

Training Link: New Director required

Following the planned retirement of our present director, Training Link, a basic skills training centre in Somers Town, is looking for a new part-time Director to start in August 2020. Must have management experience in a small voluntary sector organisation; experience of policy development, financial management, fund raising in the voluntary sector and recruiting and retaining volunteers.
£35,000 pro-rata for 10 hours a week over at least two days. For an informal discussion about the post, or for an application pack, please email Peter Lush on director@traininglink.org.uk   Closing date: 14 April

Age UK Camden seeks Emergency Food Parcels Project Volunteer

You will be assisting our efforts to ensure that our services continue to support older people in Camden during this time of a Coronavirus Pandemic.
You will need to give us 2-4 hours of your time a week/fortnight and also
~ Complete our volunteer application form
~ Attend an induction meeting
Register: 020 7239 0400 or emailing   info@ageukcamden.org.uk

Paid work opportunities for people who have been laid off/ reduced income

Local Adult social care providers are still recruiting, and as they support the NHS to move vulnerable adults out of hospital to stay well at home, their need is growing. Contact Proud to Care.

Camden Giving seeks Office Support Administrator

Camden Giving are looking for someone to provide administration support across all operations and programmes including employment, volunteering and funding. Apply by 23.59pm Sunday 5th April. Details and how to apply here.

Want to Share a Skill, Space or Equipment?

Simply add your request to Comoodle Camden, the new local online sharing platform which facilitates sharing for community benefit.

Our mailing address is:
Charlie Ratchford Centre, Belmont Street, London, NW1 8HF

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

Tell us what Your Organisation is Doing in Response to COVID-19

Please complete our survey as soon as you can so that we can build a picture of how organisations are responding to the pandemic. Give your update here. Your response will automatically update the Council’s new Get Help directory.

Coronavirus COVID-19 –  latest advice

VAC is publishing the latest information and advice as it becomes available on our COVID-19 Update page (or click ‘What’s New’ on the VAC homepage). Updates are dated so that you can see how recent the information is. We recently added a number of safeguarding resources including videos on our home page.

Camden Council Response

The Council have written to every resident outlining what they are doing.  You can view the letter here (page 1, page 2).

How to Volunteer

If you want to volunteer to help you can volunteer in Camden at Time to Spare.  You can volunteer for the NHS at GoodSAM.  Or join a neighbourhood Mutual Aid group. Gov.uk has a new page on volunteering opportunities.

Voluntary Action Camden News

Although we have stopped face-to-face contact and non-essential travel staff and volunteers are working remotely and you can still  contact us as usual via phone and email and we will continue to keep our support work to groups in Camden going.
We will let you know what we plan to do instead of the AGM soon.  We will be postponing the major Funders Fair we had organised for 13th May.  The board have confirmed Kevin Nunan as Executive Director. Julie Christie Webb remains Chair, Gaynor Humpreys remains Vice Chair.

Free GOV.UK Coronavirus Information Service on WhatsApp

Simply add 07860 064422 in your phone contacts and then message the word ‘hi’ in a WhatsApp message to get started. A set of menu options is then presented which the user can choose from and then be sent relevant guidance from GOV.UK pages as well as links to GOV.UK for further information.

Maintaining Your Organisation’s Viability

NCVO estimate that the charity sector is going to lose about £4billion per quarter during the crisis.  Business continuity insurance has proved to be of limited use. Sector leaders are pressing the treasury to come up with a support package but it’s expected that any package will only cover 10 – 20% of the losses. Funders understand the gravity of the situation, the council is waiving rents for many organisations in the first quarter and most funders and contract holders are showing flexibility to allow organisations to change the way they work (or even what they do).  The government has put in place a number of support measures:
~ The Job Retention scheme is applicable to charities and allows you to claim 80% of salary for furloughed workers. Covers all employees – no need to prove disruption, just “no work.”  The minimum furlough period (3 wks) can be used flexibly. Poses a dilemma to many charities who feel they must continue to support the most vulnerable but then cannot claim the salary support unless staff are furloughed.
~ The self employment support scheme is a similar scheme for self employed workers
Some of the support measures need clarification – especially those relating to rates.  It’s not clear if the definition of SME included charities, but those that are Companies Limited by Guarantee surely have a strong case. Details here.
See the Funding section for details of funding that is available.  Camden Giving has created a fund and intends to use it quickly.  Some organisations have already accessed Community Infrastructure Levy funding.

You could be spreading the coronavirus without realising you’ve got it

Read the full story at New Scientist (complete with disturbing picture taken on Primrose Hill).

See the Funding pages on VAC’s website for all the latest information.

Camden Giving Covid-19 Charity Fund

Charities, community groups and social enterprises in Camden are facing a huge surge in demand and cuts to their income. This fund is here to support them to do what they do best and to ensure they are here in the future.

Youth Futures Foundation

The Foundation is committed to transforming employment for young people.
Funding is for a 6-12 month period of planning and set up from September 2020 onwards, during which time no direct delivery to young people will be required. This will be followed by funding for a delivery phase from January 2021 onwards, by which time we hope face to face work will be possible again.

Arts Council Emergency Response Package for #Covid19 crisis.

Arts Council makes £160 million of investment for people and organisations in the cultural sector. Full details here: http://artscouncil.org.uk/covid19

Emergency support fund announced to help community and voluntary organisations

The Greater London Authority and Emergency support fund have raised over £5M from City Bridge Trust Bloomberg etc. The emergency fund will be available to organisations that are facing immediate financial pressures and uncertainty because of coronavirus. This includes increasing demands for services, higher staff absences, fewer volunteers and lower donations for organisations. Full details here.

£1m available to fund urgent small-charity coronavirus poverty relief

Martin Lewis is releasing £1M from his charity fund to provide grants of £5,000 to £20,000 to small registered charities, or local arms of bigger charities, across the UK – to help with specific UK coronavirus-related poverty relief projects.
Examples could include foodbanks, charities engaged in community aid, financial advice help and more. The hope is to get the money distributed within the next couple of weeks. Full details here.

A Helpful List of Emergency Funders

Charity Professional, Ian McLintock, is maintaining a web page of Emergency Coronvirus Funding resources.

The National Emergencies Trust lunches Coronavirus Appeal

The Trust will collaborate with charities and other bodies to raise and distribute money and support victims at the time of a domestic disaster.  Full details here.

Trustee Training, IT Training etc

All VAC training is suspended for now.  We will endeavour to move training online in the near future.

Safeguarding Courses:

VAC is working with funders to see what can be done online and on webinars so that safeguarding courses can continue where feasible.  Further details to come. There are some basic safeguarding videos on the home page and on the COVID19 Update page.
Tel: 020 7 284 6575 | Email: dogunyemi@vac.org.uk email (Mon – Wed)

More details on the VAC website: https://vac.org.uk/events/

Camden Events

All face-to-face events are cancelled for now.

Training Link: New Director required

Following the planned retirement of our present director, Training Link, a basic skills training centre in Somers Town, is looking for a new part-time Director to start in August 2020. Must have management experience in a small voluntary sector organisation; experience of policy development, financial management, fund raising in the voluntary sector and recruiting and retaining volunteers.
£35,000 pro-rata for 10 hours a week over at least two days. For an informal discussion about the post, or for an application pack, please email Peter Lush on director@traininglink.org.uk
Closing date: 14 April @ 5pm. Interviews on 13 May.

Paid work opportunities for people who have been laid off/ reduced income

Local Adult social care providers are still recruiting, and as they support the NHS to move vulnerable adults out of hospital to stay well at home, their need is growing. Contact Proud to Care.

Camden Giving seeks Office Support Administrator

Camden Giving are looking for someone to provide administration support across all operations and programmes including employment, volunteering and funding. Apply by 23.59pm Sunday 5th April. Details and how to apply here.

Volunteer with VAC and develop experience and skills in public health

VAC provide training, and work opportunities for Camden volunteers who can commit 2 hours per week.
We offer free Royal Society of Public Health (RSPH) training to volunteer as a Community Links volunteer, part of a new Care Navigation and Social Prescribing service in Camden. Community Links volunteers signpost residents to community based activities and help with formal referrals where community based activities are needed alongside clinical care.
Contact: Mandira Manandhar, Community Links Co-ordinator (Mon, Tues and Thurs) 020 7284 6550/6573 or email: mmanandhar@vac.org.uk

Want to Share a Skill, Space or Equipment?

Simply add your request to Comoodle Camden, the new local online sharing platform which facilitates sharing for community benefit.

Need a Meeting Room near Chalk Farm?

VAC has 3 new rooms to hire out for Events/Training, etc. at  the Charlie Ratchford Centre in Chalk Farm.
There is a large room for up to 60 people, ideal for large events.
The training room can hold up to 20 people comfortably for training/workshops
The Lounge is a open area for anything that is not confidential and can hold up to 20 people. Smartboard, level access throughout, reasonable prices.
Rates and full details on the VAC website. Special rates for Camden networks.

Camden Carers Are Moving

From Monday 30th March, Camden Carers Service will be based at:
The Greenwood Centre, 37 Greenwood Place, NW5 1LB.
CCC will be closed for two weeks from Mon 16 March.  020 7428 8950

Our mailing address is:
Charlie Ratchford Centre, Belmont Street, London, NW1 8HF

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

Survey of Camden Voluntary Organisations

Please complete our survey as soon as you can so that we can build a picture of how organisations are responding to the pandemic. View the survey here.

Coronavirus COVID-19 –  latest advice

VAC is publishing the latest information and advice as it becomes available on our COVID-19 Update page (or click ‘What’s New’ on the VAC homepage). Updates are dated so that you can see how recent the information is. Updates today on new funds, government advice on key workers and evictions.  Charity Commission advice on AGMs, annual returns and online meetings and more.

Camden Council Response

The Council have published a  comprehensive response to the current situation which you can view here.  VAC and our voluntary sector partners are working closely with the council. A number of task groups working on specific topics have been set up:

Letters from the Sector

VAC has signed an open letter along with many other Camden organisations to the Leader of the Council, Cllr Georgia Gould.  The letter pledges the sector to working with the council to do what we can to support the borough’s residents, but also warns that many local voluntary organisations will face financial challenges very quickly as income earned from room hire etc, ends suddenly.  Due to eight years of austerity few organisations have much in the way of reserves left leaving them with few options.
The Small Charities Coalition has also written a letter to the Prime Minister which VAC has signed.  View the letter here.

Voluntary Action Camden Annual Gathering and AGM

Tuesday 31st March, 4.30pm at Charlie Ratchford Centre. Regrettably we have taken the difficult decision to cancel.  We were looking forward to it and have put in a lot of preparation.  We had some big announcements to make – such as a major Funders Fair organised for 13th May.  As the situation becomes clearer we will be in a better position to make a decision about how/when to reconvene. Watch this space.

Government Moves to Cushion Business, Forgets Charities

Charity sector leaders have said that they are frustrated and disappointed by the lack of support from the government, to help charities tackle the Covid-19 crisis.
Some have warned that if the government does not take immediate action to support the sector, many charities will not be able to survive the effects of the virus. This is given that there is increased demand, a lack of available staff and volunteers, and a constricted fundraising landscape.
The Scottish government has announced a £20m resilience fund for charities.  Full story at Civil Society.

See the Funding pages on VAC’s website for all the latest information.

Camden Giving Covid-19 Charity Fund

Charities, community groups and social enterprises in Camden are facing a huge surge in demand and cuts to their income. This fund is here to support them to do what they do best and to ensure they are here in the future.

Emergency support fund announced to help community and voluntary organisations

The Greater London Authority and Emergency support fund – with an initial £1 million provided by City Hall and £1 million from City Bridge Trust. The emergency fund will be available to organisations that are facing immediate financial pressures and uncertainty because of coronavirus. This includes increasing demands for services, higher staff absences, fewer volunteers and lower donations for organisations. Full details here.

£1m available to fund urgent small-charity coronavirus poverty relief

Martin Lewis is releasing £1M from his charity fund to provide grants of £5,000 to £20,000 to small registered charities, or local arms of bigger charities, across the UK – to help with specific UK coronavirus-related poverty relief projects.
Examples could include foodbanks, charities engaged in community aid, financial advice help and more. The hope is to get the money distributed within the next couple of weeks. Full details here.

A Helpful List of Emergency Funders

Charity Professional, Ian McLintock, is maintaining a web page of Emergency Coronvirus Funding resources.

The National Emergencies Trust lunches Coronavirus Appeal

The Trust will collaborate with charities and other bodies to raise and distribute money and support victims at the time of a domestic disaster.  Full details here.

Partners for Health 2020

Grants are available for projects that can demonstrate:
~ Positive outcomes for people facing significant barriers to health
~ A new approach or a thoughtful development of service
~ Partnership between health and community organisations.
Grants range between £3,000 and £10,000 ( in previous years the average award is £5,000). Usually for one year beginning in 2020.
Apply online via the London Catalyst website www.londoncatalyst.org.uk/grants
The deadline for applications is 5:00pm on Thursday 21 May 2020

The HS2 Camden Fund

The Camden Fund aims to strengthen the sense of place and alleviate the disruption of the development of HS2 on local people. Aims:
1. A Happier and Healthier Camden
2. A Better Connected Camden
3. A Stronger Voluntary and Community Sector
Closing date: 14th May 2020. Full details at Camden Giving.

Governance in the Voluntary and Community Sector

This course, run by Mary Ward and VAC is cancelled for now along with all other Mary Ward courses.  Full details here.

New IT & Digital Capacity Building Programme

This programme has been suspended until such time as gatherings can take place again safely.

Safeguarding Courses:

VAC is working with funders to see what can be done online and on webinars so that safeguarding courses can continue where feasible.  Further details to come.
Tel: 020 7 284 6575 | Email: dogunyemi@vac.org.uk email (Mon – Wed)

More details on the VAC website: https://vac.org.uk/events/

Resilience: The Biology of Stress and the Science of Hope – Cancelled

Mon, 30 March 2020, 10:00 – 13:00
At Maiden Lane Community Centre, 156 Saint Paul’s Crescent, NW1
This event has been cancelled.

Camden Intergenerational Network Meeting  – Cancelled

Wednesday 1st April 2020, from 2-4pm
Age UK Camden, Tavis House, 1-6 Tavistock Square WC1H 9NA
The event has been cancelled

The Society for the Furtherance of Critical Philosophy

SFCP, a small independent charity concerned with education, ethics and philosophy, seeks someone to take minutes of Trustee meetings, and to liaise with the secretary and trustees. Interest in our values and activities would be an advantage.
The ideal applicant shares our values and will enjoy working with this small group of committed Trustees. To discuss this opportunity, please contact the chair Dr Julie-Marie ffrench Devitt at: galangal19@yahoo.co.uk in the first instance.   Further information at the website www.sfcp.org.uk.

Camden Giving seeks Office Support Administrator

Camden Giving are looking for someone to provide administration support across all operations and programmes including employment, volunteering and funding. Apply by 23.59pm Sunday 5th April. Details and how to apply here.

Global Generation Youth and Community Engagement Manager

Time commitment 3 days a week with the potential for more
Salary £27,000 per annum pro rata. Deadline 23 March 2020 at 9am
As the Youth & Community Engagement Manager you will have great engagement, project management and people skills to develop and implement the vision of the Youth and Community programmes in King’s Cross.
Email your CV and a separate covering letter (maximum two pages) explaining why you are best suited for the role to jobs@globalgeneration.org.uk

Community Connectors/Volunteers Recruiting

Elfrida Rathbone Camden have announced that the training sessions for new volunteers are cancelled.
For more information contact Jill: Jill@elfridacamden.org.uk or call 07939877745.

Volunteer with VAC and develop experience and skills in public health

VAC provide training, and work opportunities for Camden volunteers who can commit 2 hours per week.
We offer free Royal Society of Public Health (RSPH) training to volunteer as a Community Links volunteer, part of a new Care Navigation and Social Prescribing service in Camden. Community Links volunteers signpost residents to community based activities and help with formal referrals where community based activities are needed alongside clinical care.
Contact: Mandira Manandhar, Community Links Co-ordinator (Mon, Tues and Thurs) 020 7284 6550/6573 or email: mmanandhar@vac.org.uk

Reception and Greeting Volunteers in Chalk Farm

VAC are recruiting volunteer receptionists to be the first point of contact for visitors. You will be an important member of the VAC team of volunteers and staff and will have access to training and ongoing support.
Contact Kevin Nunan at VAC on 020 7284 6557 or knunan@vac.org.uk

Want to Share a Skill, Space or Equipment?

Simply add your request to Comoodle Camden, the new local online sharing platform which facilitates sharing for community benefit.

Need a Meeting Room near Chalk Farm?

VAC has 3 new rooms to hire out for Events/Training, etc. at  the Charlie Ratchford Centre in Chalk Farm.
There is a large room for up to 60 people, ideal for large events.
The training room can hold up to 20 people comfortably for training/workshops
The Lounge is a open area for anything that is not confidential and can hold up to 20 people. Smartboard, level access throughout, reasonable prices.
Rates and full details on the VAC website. Special rates for Camden networks.

Camden Carers Are Moving

From Monday 30th March, Camden Carers Service will be based at:
The Greenwood Centre, 37 Greenwood Place, NW5 1LB.
CCC will be closed for two weeks from Mon 16 March.  020 7428 8950

Our mailing address is:
Charlie Ratchford Centre, Belmont Street, London, NW1 8HF

Want to change how you receive these emails?
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Coronavirus COVID-19 –  latest advice

VAC will be publishing the latest information and advice as it becomes available here (or click ‘What’s New’ on the VAC homepage).
We’ve added sections on fundraising, advice to employers and those running organisations.
Camden Council have issued specific advice for Community Care and Residential Settings here
Navca have produced a straightforward risk assessment template to help you plan here.
Together Matters have produced a template for creating an emergency plan for those with caring responsibilties available here.
Emergency legislation is expected soon. The bill’s powers would include:
Expansion of court hearings by television and video link;
“Additional employment safeguards” for those who volunteer in the health and social care system, so they can “leave their main jobs and temporarily volunteer in the event of a widespread pandemic”; and
A range of previously announced measures, such as emergency registration of health professionals who have retired, and relaxation of rules around staff to pupil ratios in education and childcare settings.

Voluntary Action Camden Annual Gathering and AGM

Tuesday 31st March, 4.30pm at Charlie Ratchford Centre. Save the date.  It’s an opportunity to hear about VAC’s work and our members work and network over refreshments. Meet new faces and greet familiar ones. Full details and booking at Eventbrite. (Do book as usual – if changes have to be made due to Coronavirus rest assured that we will follow the latest advice to keep you safe.)

Two Events Against Hate and Intolerance – Cancelled

Please note that both events have been cancelled
Camden coming together against hate
Thursday 19 March 2020, 6.00 – 8.00pm
Panel Discussion on Right Wing Extremism hosted by Camden Council
25 March, 6 to 8pm at The Greenwood Centre, 37 Greenwood Place, NW5
Details: Serrina.lobban@camden.gov.uk  or call 07771 572 976

Resilience: The Biology of Stress and the Science of Hope

Camden Integrated Early Years Service: Kentish Town East Locality
Mon, 30 March 2020, 10:00 – 13:00
At Maiden Lane Community Centre, 156 Saint Paul’s Crescent, NW1
Come along to a screening of Resilience – a documentary that delves into the science of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and a new movement to treat and prevent toxic stress. More details and booking at Eventbrite.

Camden Carers Are Moving

From Monday 30th March, Camden Carers Service will be based at:
The Greenwood Centre, 37 Greenwood Place, NW5 1LB.
CCC will be closed for two weeks from Mon 16 March.  020 7428 8950

100 years of the Trust  – Tavistock and Portman talks.

An evening with leading mental health practitioners, refreshments and drinks.
Talk one: Self-harm in a family system and the patterns of emotional response
Talk two: Thinking family in primary care: Beyond diagnosis
Monday 16 March, 6 to 9pm
At Lecture Theatre, Tavistock Centre, 120 Belsize Lane, London NW3 5BA
Cost: £16-20 Details and booking at Eventbrite

Get Involved in Supported living mental health services

Supported living mental health services in Camden are in the process of being retendered, and we are looking for people who have lived experience of using supported living services to get involved with evaluating the bids.
The dates participants will need to be available are:
• 27th of March 2020: Training day provided by Camden Council Procurement Team on the procurement process, how to evaluate a tender, and what to expect from the process.
• 10am – 3pm, 17th April 2020: Reading applications (morning) and evaluating as a group (afternoon).
If you know anyone who would be interested in this opportunity, please ask them to get in touch with  jennifer.carter@camden.gov.uk

The Budget

The Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, stepped up to the Despatch Box with the aim of settling the nerves of the country. The new government wants to ‘level up’, ‘get brexit done’ and deal with global financial turmoil as the implications of pandemic sink in.
The Budget included a £12 billion plan to provide support for public services, individuals and businesses, including £5 billion to support NHS and other public services as they respond to the situation.
For individuals: Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is being extended to cover people advised to self-isolate or who care for them. The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Thérèse Coffey has said that If claimants cannot attend their JobCentre appointment in person because of self-isolation, work coaches can exercise discretion and they will not be sanctioned, as long they let their work coach or JobCentre Plus know before the appointment. She reiterated that “No-one will be penalised for doing the right thing.” There will also be a £500m hardship fund although there are no details at present.
For business: Support takes the form of expanded business rates reliefs along with a loan scheme to support up to £1 billion lending to SMEs, a £2.2 billion grant scheme for small businesses, and a dedicated helpline for those who need a deferral period on their tax liabilities.
Sector leaders asked the Chancellor to recognise the impact COVID-19 could have on the voluntary and community sector – the people who, we’ve seen, are being asked to help support our hard-pressed public services and NHS. The Chancellor was asked to:
1. Immediately establish an emergency fund to support charities at risk of insolvency or significantly lower levels of fundraised or trading income due to economic disruption.
2. Implement immediate short term tax deferments or temporary waivers (for example VAT) to help charities experiencing cash flow crises to stay solvent.
3. Explicitly include charities, social enterprises and other social organisations in any economic stimulus packages and measures offered to support the business sector as part of the Government’s response to coronavirus or its aftermath and to consider the potential longer term impacts of the short term hiatus.
Like many in the voluntary and community sector, we’re very disappointed that the Chancellor has failed to address these issues. The contribution that charities and voluntary organisations make to our society as a whole, and in their local communities, needs to be recognised and supported.

See the Funding pages on VAC’s website for all the latest information.

Partners for Health 2020

Grants are available for projects that can demonstrate:
~ Positive outcomes for people facing significant barriers to health
~ A new approach or a thoughtful development of service
~ Partnership between health and community organisations.
Grants range between £3,000 and £10,000 ( in previous years the average award is £5,000). Usually for one year beginning in 2020.
Apply online via the London Catalyst website www.londoncatalyst.org.uk/grants
The deadline for applications is 5:00pm on Thursday 21 May 2020

The HS2 Camden Fund

The Camden Fund aims to strengthen the sense of place and alleviate the disruption of the development of HS2 on local people. Aims:
1. A Happier and Healthier Camden
2. A Better Connected Camden
3. A Stronger Voluntary and Community Sector
Closing date: 14th May 2020. Full details at Camden Giving.

Governance in the Voluntary and Community Sector

A short course for trustees/ management committee members and anybody who is interested in developing the knowledge and skills required to be a committee member of a voluntary or community sector organisation. Run by Mary Ward and VAC.  Full details here.

New IT & Digital Capacity Building Programme

VAC has a new IT and digital capacity building for the sector, delivered in Partnership with CITA and WCIT. Taking on your priorities from our recent survey, we will be delivering a series of FREE 2 hour workshops covering a whole range of topics from getting started with new IT systems, social media use and strategy, website and CRM development through to data protection, compliance and digital strategy.  Visit our website for more information, download the programme and book your place.

Safeguarding Courses:

Safeguarding Introduction: Protecting Children in the Community (Level 2)
Introductory course designed for all those who work directly with children, young people or their families. Open to all those who have had little or no safeguarding training before.
Enquire for dates of next course.

Safeguarding Advance: Developing knowledge and understanding. (Level 3)
For those who frequently work with or deliver services to children and their families. Course provides essential information that your organisation / group needs to understands it’s legal obligations in regards to child protection procedures and up-to-date knowledge of safeguarding legislation.
Please contact: Dianne Carlton Ogunyemi, our Community Partnership Advisor Lead tfor future dates as  well as customised Safeguarding training enquires.
Tel: 020 7 284 6575 | Email: dogunyemi@vac.org.uk email (Mon – Wed)

More details on the VAC website: https://vac.org.uk/events/

Universal credit London advice project

Do you support people claiming universal credit in London? Do you work with people who struggle to access the benefits system (due to disability, language barriers or another reason)?
CPAG’s Universal Credit London advice project provides a free advice service and free training to frontline workers who directly support UC claimants living in a London borough.
For free UC training contact Sabrina Dubash on 020 7812 5220.

EU Settlement Scheme Meeting with New Europeans

19th March 2020 1pm-3pm at the St Pancras and Somers Town Living Centre
A representative from New Europeans will be giving a presentation on the EU Settlement Scheme. Some of the areas covered include::
– The potential impact on Europeans of changes in benefits
– Lack of representation and community cohesion
– EU Settlement Scheme and the dangers of becoming undocumented
rsvp to Peter Simonson peter@thelivingcentre.org

What Does Climate & Environmental Change Mean to Us?

A conversation for Camden’s BAME community to talk about climate change and other dilemmas from their view.  Communities in Camden are connected to international Communities experiencing floods in Bangladesh, crop failure in Africa, heatwaves in India and Pakistan, pullution in Latin America and more.
Monday 23rd March 6-8pm; Monday 30th March 6-8pm; Tuesay 7th April 4.30 – 6.30pm; Thursday 23rd April 10 – 12pm
All events take place at the Think and Do pop up cafe in Kentish Town.

The Winch AGM

19th March 2020, 6:45pm at Belsize Community Library
RSVP: rsvp@thewinch.org to book your place

Camden Intergenerational Network Meeting

Wednesday 1st April 2020, from 2-4pm
Age UK Camden, Tavis House, 1-6 Tavistock Square WC1H 9NA
The theme of this meeting is: Looking to the future
Stephen Burke from United for All Ages and other guest speakers will discuss what the future looks like regarding intergenerational practice.
RSVP for the network meeting by Friday 6th March to Corinna Gray via email ageingbetterincamden@ageukcamden.org.uk or phone 020 7239 0400

Free Monthly Family Cooking Classes

For Somers Town (and Regent’s Park) families
2nd Saturday of every month 3.45pm to 7pm
At Somers Town Community Association, 150 Ossulston Street, NW1
No-cut (safety) gloves provided for children. Halal friendly and vegan
facebook.com/lifeafterhummus | info@lifeafterhummus.com

Community Association for West Hampstead seeks Manager

£19,200 per annum inc L W (FTE £32,000)
for 21 hours/week plus 3% contributory pension
We are a small, active community association serving the diverse population of West Hampstead in the London Borough of Camden.
We are seeking an energetic and motivated Manager to lead us in the next phase of our development.
Closing date: Thursday 19 March. Interviews: Monday 30 March.
Download recruitment pack from: info@cawh.org.uk, or 020 7794 3729.
CAWH is based at West Hampstead Community Centre, 17 Dornfell St, NW6

Nafsiyat Intercultural Therapy Centre seeks Administration Assistant

£10.75/hour (London Living Wage) 8hrs/week minimum, 4-8pm two days per week (Mon-Thurs)
Temporary role on casual basis
Nafsiyat are looking for a proactive person with a friendly, can-do attitude to assist with data entry, general office administration and evening front of house.
Please send a current CV and tailored covering letter (no more than 2 pages) explaining how your skills and experience match the requirements for this role to recruitment@nafsiyat.org.uk by 5pm on Tuesday March 17th 2020.

The Society for the Furtherance of Critical Philosophy

SFCP, a small independent charity concerned with education, ethics and philosophy, seeks someone to take minutes of Trustee meetings, and to liaise with the secretary and trustees. Interest in our values and activities would be an advantage.
The ideal applicant shares our values and will enjoy working with this small group of committed Trustees. To discuss this opportunity, please contact the chair Dr Julie-Marie ffrench Devitt at: galangal19@yahoo.co.uk in the first instance.   Further information at the website www.sfcp.org.uk.

Camden Giving seeks Office Support Administrator

Camden Giving are looking for someone to provide administration support across all operations and programmes including employment, volunteering and funding. Apply by 23.59pm Sunday 5th April. Details and how to apply here.

Global Generation Youth and Community Engagement Manager

Time commitment 3 days a week with the potential for more
Salary £27,000 per annum pro rata. Deadline 23 March 2020 at 9am
As the Youth & Community Engagement Manager you will have great engagement, project management and people skills to develop and implement the vision of the Youth and Community programmes in King’s Cross.
Email your CV and a separate covering letter (maximum two pages) explaining why you are best suited for the role to jobs@globalgeneration.org.uk

Abbey Community Centre is looking for a Saturday Community Events and Engagement Coordinator

An enthusiastic, driven individual is wanted to inspire and motivate local people to engage and participate with the centre’s evolving community events programme on Saturdays. The post holder will also take lead responsibility for operations on Saturdays including the building and security.
Part time 7.5 hours per week (1.5 hours of these on weekdays – can be offsite). Actual salary £5,460 (£25,480 F.T.E.). Pro-rata 30 days leave
To be considered for this post one year’s recent experience in a role involving organising successful events/activities on a regular basis is required.
For more information: https://abbeycc-kilburn.org.uk/index.php/vacancies/ closing date Monday 16th March 2020, 10am.

Community Connectors/Volunteers Recruiting Now

Elfrida are always looking for enthusiastic people to become Community Connectors to support parents/carers and their families living in Camden.
ERC offer full training covering the key skills for the role, so no qualifications needed. You will receive 1:1 support, out of pocket expenses and be a part of a local network. Next training course 27th March and 3rd April 2020, 10-2.30pm both days.
You can help by sharing parenting tips, offering practical support to those who need it and using your skills to help organise group activities for families and their children.
If you are interested, want more information or to reserve your place contact Jill: Jill@elfridacamden.org.uk or call 07939877745 for a chat.

Volunteer with VAC and develop experience and skills in public health

VAC provide training, and work opportunities for Camden volunteers who can commit 2 hours per week.
We offer free Royal Society of Public Health (RSPH) training to volunteer as a Community Links volunteer, part of a new Care Navigation and Social Prescribing service in Camden. Community Links volunteers signpost residents to community based activities and help with formal referrals where community based activities are needed alongside clinical care.
Contact: Mandira Manandhar, Community Links Co-ordinator (Mon, Tues and Thurs) 020 7284 6550/6573 or email: mmanandhar@vac.org.uk

Reception and Greeting Volunteers in Chalk Farm

VAC are recruiting volunteer receptionists to be the first point of contact for visitors. You will be an important member of the VAC team of volunteers and staff and will have access to training and ongoing support.
Contact Kevin Nunan at VAC on 020 7284 6557 or knunan@vac.org.uk

Want to Share a Skill, Space or Equipment?

Simply add your request to Comoodle Camden, the new local online sharing platform which facilitates sharing for community benefit.

Need a Meeting Room near Chalk Farm?

VAC has 3 new rooms to hire out for Events/Training, etc. at  the Charlie Ratchford Centre in Chalk Farm.
There is a large room for up to 60 people, ideal for large events.
The training room can hold up to 20 people comfortably for training/workshops
The Lounge is a open area for anything that is not confidential and can hold up to 20 people. Smartboard, level access throughout, reasonable prices.
Rates and full details on the VAC website. Special rates for Camden networks.

Coronavirus COVID-19 – UK outbreak and latest advice

The UK Chief Medical Officers have raised the risk to the UK from low to moderate. This follows the World Health Organisation’s declaration that this is a public health emergency of international concern.
• Government information and advice here.
• NHS overview here
• NHS common questions here
Advice for employers and employees from Acas is available here.

Our mailing address is:
Charlie Ratchford Centre, Belmont Street, London, NW1 8HF

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International Women’s Day

Sunday 8 March, 11am-1pm
Ingestre Community Centre, Ingestre Road NW5 1UX
Join us this International Women’s Day for a morning of collective joy, free childcare and a free cooked meal to take home.
Mums, grandmothers and carers are invited to rest and socialise, while experienced male volunteers take care of childcare, cooking and cleaning!

Voluntary Action Camden Annual Gathering and AGM

Tuesday 31st March, 4.30pm at Charlie Ratchford Centre. Save the date.  It’s an opportunity to hear about VAC’s work and our members work and network over refreshments. Meet new faces and greet familiar ones. If you have work that you would like to showcase get in touch with Kevin. More details soon.

Universal credit London advice project

Do you support people claiming universal credit in London? Do you work with people who struggle to access the benefits system (due to disability, language barriers or another reason)?
CPAG’s Universal Credit London advice project provides a free advice service and free training to frontline workers who directly support UC claimants living in a London borough.
For free UC training contact Sabrina Dubash on 020 7812 5220.

The Charity Property Matters Survey 2020

Ethical Property Foundation runs free workshops across the country and has just launched its survey and all local groups are invited to complete it.
This Survey is the only research which asks all voluntary organisations in England & Wales specifically about their property assets and issues.
The 2018 Charity Property Matters Survey revealed:
• More Charities than ever before are renting from a commercial Landlord
• A third of charities believe property poses a high/ very high risk to their future

EU Settlement Scheme Meeting with New Europeans

19th March 2020 1pm-3pm at the St Pancras and Somers Town Living Centre
A representative from New Europeans will be giving a presentation on the EU Settlement Scheme. Some of the areas covered include::
– The potential impact on Europeans of changes in benefits
– Lack of representation and community cohesion
– EU Settlement Scheme and the dangers of becoming undocumented
rsvp to Peter Simonson peter@thelivingcentre.org

Healthy Weight Training

Tuesday, 10 March 2020, 13:30 – 17:00
Royal College of General Practitioners, 30 Euston Square, London, NW1 2FB
Let’s talk about weight: A step-by step guide to conversations about healthy weight. More info and booking at Eventbrite

Camden Carers Are Moving

From Monday 30th March, Camden Carers Service will be based at:
The Greenwood Centre, 37 Greenwood Place, NW5 1LB.
CCC will be closed for two weeks from Mon 16 March. Apologies for any inconvenience caused. Contact number stays the same: 020 7428 8950

Adult Elective Orthopaedic Consultation

Public Meeting Camden – 10 March, 18.30 – 20.30, Council Chamber Crowndale Centre, 218 Eversholt Street, London, NW1 1 BD.
Register on the Eventbrite
We are proposing changes to planned surgery for bones, joints and muscles (planned orthopaedic surgery) for adults. This includes hip and knee replacements; and other surgery of hips, knees, shoulders, elbows, feet, ankles and hands. Any changes could affect residents of Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Haringey, Islington and neighbouring boroughs. Read the proposals and take part in the consultation. Give feedback on the proposals here.

The Camden Companion Guide

The Camden Companion provides a directory of support and services you may wish to consider in Camden to help you to stay well, get active and connect with your local community. Find out more here.

Coronavirus COVID-19 – UK outbreak and latest advice

Keep up to date with the latest Government information and advice here.
• NCVO have produced a practical and informative guide here.
• NHS advice here
• Advice for employers and employees is available here.
• New Scientist have a useful guide to preparing for pandemic here.
For those who need for in depth information you can read the National Coronavirus Action Plan here.

Competitive behaviour between charities has a negative impact on communities

Competitive behaviour between charities has a negative impact on communities by undermining sustainability of organisations and reducing trust between service-providers, according to an interim report. Story in Civil Society.

Health matters: community-centred approaches for health and wellbeing

A Public Health England resource focusing on the concept and practice of community-centred approaches for health and wellbeing and outlines how to create the conditions for community assets to thrive.

See the Funding pages on VAC’s website for all the latest information.

Partners for Health 2020

Grants are available for projects that can demonstrate:
~ Positive outcomes for people facing significant barriers to health
~ A new approach or a thoughtful development of service
~ Partnership between health and community organisations.
Grants range between £3,000 and £10,000 ( in previous years the average award is £5,000). Usually for one year beginning in 2020.
Apply online via the London Catalyst website www.londoncatalyst.org.uk/grants
The deadline for applications is 5:00pm on Thursday 21 May 2020

The HS2 Camden Fund

The Camden Fund aims to strengthen the sense of place and alleviate the disruption of the development of HS2 on local people. Aims:
1. A Happier and Healthier Camden
2. A Better Connected Camden
3. A Stronger Voluntary and Community Sector
Closing date: 14th May 2020. Full details at Camden Giving.

Governance in the Voluntary and Community Sector

A short course for trustees/ management committee members and anybody who is interested in developing the knowledge and skills required to be a committee member of a voluntary or community sector organisation. Run by Mary Ward and VAC.  Full details here.

New IT & Digital Capacity Building Programme

VAC is pleased to announce the launch of our new IT and digital capacity building for the sector, delivered in Partnership with CITA and WCIT. Taking on your priorities from our recent survey, we will be delivering a series of FREE 2 hour workshops covering a whole range of topics from getting started with new IT systems, social media use and strategy, website and CRM development through to data protection, compliance and digital strategy.  Please visit our website for more information, download the programme and book your place.

Safeguarding Courses:

Safeguarding Introduction: Protecting Children in the Community (Level 2)
Introductory course designed for all those who work directly with children, young people or their families. Open to all those who have had little or no safeguarding training before.
Enquire for dates of next course.

Safeguarding Advance: Developing knowledge and understanding. (Level 3)
For those who frequently work with or deliver services to children and their families. Course provides essential information that your organisation / group needs to understands it’s legal obligations in regards to child protection procedures and up-to-date knowledge of safeguarding legislation.
Please contact: Dianne Carlton Ogunyemi, our Community Partnership Advisor Lead tfor future dates as  well as customised Safeguarding training enquires.
Tel: 020 7 284 6575 | Email: dogunyemi@vac.org.uk email (Mon – Wed)

More details on the VAC website: https://vac.org.uk/events/

Two Events Against Hate and Intolerance

Camden coming together against hate
Thursday 19 March 2020, 6.00 – 8.00pm
The Greenwood Centre, 37 Greenwood Place, NW5
Organised by Camden Council in partnership with the Police and local community organisations, as a reminder of Camden’s zero tolerance for hate.  Reps from the Council, Metropolitan Police, Forum+ and Camden People First
The building is fullly accessible. All welcome, no need to book.
Details from Serrina.lobban@camden.gov.uk  or call 07771 572 976
Panel Discussion on Right Wing Extremism hosted by Camden Council
25 March, 6 to 8pm at The Greenwood Centre, 37 Greenwood Place, NW5
Come and join us to a community panel discussion touching on issues relating to hate crime, racism, and violent and non-violent far-right extremism.

What Does Climate & Environmental Change Mean to Us?

A conversation for Camden’s BAME community to talk about climate change and other dilemmas from their view.  Communities in Camden are connected to international Communities experiencing floods in Bangladesh, crop failure in Africa, heatwaves in India and Pakistan, pullution in Latin America and more.
Monday 23rd March 6-8pm; Monday 30th March 6-8pm; Tuesay 7th April 4.30 – 6.30pm; Thursday 23rd April 10 – 12pm
All events take place at the Think and Do pop up cafe in Kentish Town.

Ingestre Community Centre AGM

12th March 7pm. Nominations welcome for, Chair, Treasurer, Secretary and Fundraiser. Please email your details to Michelle:  ingestre13@yahoo.co.uk

British Library Family Events

Family Takeover: Make & Create is on Saturday 7 March from 11.00 – 15.00. This is a free drop-in event suitable for all ages. Families can pop by for a half hour or stay for the full four hours. Inspired by World Book Day.
Sunday 8 March from 9.00 – 11.00, is a Relaxed Early Opening for Families for families with children on the autism spectrum and other sensory needs. Enjoy the library free from the hustle and bustle of the public. Full details here.

The Winch AGM

19th March 2020, 6:45pm at Belsize Community Library
RSVP: rsvp@thewinch.org to book your place

North Central London Social Prescribing Event

Thursday 12th of March from 12.30pm. Lift Islington, 45 White Lion St, N1
This event aims to celebrate what has been achieved so far and plan how we can collectively grow and strengthen social prescribing provision.
The event is open to anyone working in NCL who is involved or interested in social prescribing.
Information and bookings at online.

Camden Intergenerational Network Meeting

Wednesday 1st April 2020, from 2-4pm
Age UK Camden, Tavis House, 1-6 Tavistock Square WC1H 9NA
The theme of this meeting is: Looking to the future
Stephen Burke from United for All Ages and other guest speakers will discuss what the future looks like regarding intergenerational practice.
RSVP for the network meeting by Friday 6th March to Corinna Gray via email ageingbetterincamden@ageukcamden.org.uk or phone 020 7239 0400

Free Monthly Family Cooking Classes

For Somers Town (and Regent’s Park) families
2nd Saturday of every month 3.45pm to 7pm
At Somers Town Community Association, 150 Ossulston Street, NW1
No-cut (safety) gloves provided for children. Halal friendly and vegan
facebook.com/lifeafterhummus | info@lifeafterhummus.com

Celebrating 50 years the Brandon Centre

Thursday 19 March 6:00 – 8:00 at Triton Cafe, 17-19 Triton Street, NW1
The Brandon Centre is an innovative and welcoming young people’s charity providing mental health, contraception and wellbeing services to local people and communities across London.  Details and booking at Eventbrite.

Camden’s Annual CYP and Families Provider Event

Wed, 11 March 9.00 – 2.00pm at Lumen United Reformed Church & Community Centre URC, 88 Tavistock Place, WC1H
Each delegate will also have an opportunity to attend two workshops.
Lunch and networking 1pm.  Book at Eventbrite.
Please confirm your dietary requirements by contacting Sandra Soteriou at Sandra.soteriou@camden.gov.uk.

Community Association for West Hampstead seeks Manager

£19,200 per annum inc L W (FTE £32,000)
for 21 hours/week plus 3% contributory pension
We are a small, active community association serving the diverse population of West Hampstead in the London Borough of Camden.
We are seeking an energetic and motivated Manager to lead us in the next phase of our development.
Closing date: Thursday 19 March. Interviews: Monday 30 March.
We are committed to welcoming people from the widest possible diversity of background, culture and experience.
Download recruitment pack from: info@cawh.org.uk, or 020 7794 3729.
CAWH is based at West Hampstead Community Centre, 17 Dornfell St, NW6

Global Generation Youth and Community Engagement Manager

Time commitment 3 days a week with the potential for more
Salary £27,000 per annum pro rata
Applications due Monday 23 March 2020 at 9am
As the Youth & Community Engagement Manager you will have great engagement, project management and people skills to develop and implement the vision of the Youth and Community programmes in King’s Cross.
Email your CV and a separate covering letter (maximum two pages) explaining why you are best suited for the role to jobs@globalgeneration.org.uk

Abbey Community Centre is looking for a Saturday Community Events and Engagement Coordinator

An enthusiastic, driven individual is wanted to inspire and motivate local people to engage and participate with the centre’s evolving community events programme on Saturdays. The post holder will also take lead responsibility for operations on Saturdays including the care and security of the community centre building.
Part time 7.5 hours per week (1.5 hours of these on weekdays – can be offsite). Actual salary £5,460 (£25,480 F.T.E.). Pro-rata 30 days leave annually plus bank holidays.
To be considered for this post one year’s recent experience in a role involving organising successful events/activities on a regular basis is required.
For more information: https://abbeycc-kilburn.org.uk/index.php/vacancies/ closing date Monday 16th March 2020, 10am.

Camden Community Connectors Administrator (AUC/ABC)

14 hours per week. £23,628 to £24,927pa (pro rata) + 6% contributory pension
(Initial 6-month contract with the possibility of an extension)
You will be a good communicator, have excellent computer skills, and be able to work in a team. A high level of accuracy and attention to detail as well as excellent organisational and time management skills are required.
For further details and an application form visit our website.
Closing date: Friday 13th March 9am. Interview date: Wednesday 18th March

Could you help in the event of an emergency in Camden?

VCC are delivering essential training for anyone who wants to take part as an Emergency Volunteer in Camden
The CAMERA (Coordinating and Mobilising Emergency Response Activists) volunteer team gives an opportunity for local people to help in situations such as these. Book on Eventbrite.

Lifting Limits is looking for a Development Officer

Lifting Limits, a charity with a mission to challenge gender stereotyping and promote gender equality in and through education, is seeking a passionate and entrepreneurially minded fundraiser with a track record in the small charity sector.  Deadline for applications is 9th March.  For full details and to apply visit our website https://www.liftinglimits.org.uk/job-opportunities/.

Community Connectors/Volunteers Recruiting Now

Elfrida are always looking for enthusiastic people to become Community Connectors to support parents/carers and their families living in Camden.
ERC offer full training covering the key skills for the role, so no qualifications needed. You will receive 1:1 support, out of pocket expenses and be a part of a local network. Next training course 27th March and 3rd April 2020, 10-2.30pm both days.
You can help by sharing parenting tips, offering practical support to those who need it and using your skills to help organise group activities for families and their children.
If you are interested, want more information or to reserve your place contact Jill: Jill@elfridacamden.org.uk or call 07939877745 for a chat.

Volunteer with VAC and develop experience and skills in public health

VAC provide training, and work opportunities for Camden volunteers who can commit 2 hours per week.
We offer free Royal Society of Public Health (RSPH) training to volunteer as a Community Links volunteer, part of a new Care Navigation and Social Prescribing service in Camden. Community Links volunteers signpost residents to community based activities and help with formal referrals where community based activities are needed alongside clinical care.
Contact: Mandira Manandhar, Community Links Co-ordinator (Mon, Tues and Thurs) 020 7284 6550/6573 or email: mmanandhar@vac.org.uk

Reception and Greeting Volunteers in Chalk Farm

VAC are recruiting volunteer receptionists to be the first point of contact for visitors. You will be an important member of the VAC team of volunteers and staff and will have access to training and ongoing support.
Contact Kevin Nunan at VAC on 020 7284 6557 or knunan@vac.org.uk

Want to Share a Skill, Space or Equipment?

Simply add your request to Comoodle Camden, the new local online sharing platform which facilitates sharing for community benefit.

Need a Meeting Room near Chalk Farm?

VAC has 3 new rooms to hire out for Events/Training, etc. at  the Charlie Ratchford Centre in Chalk Farm.
There is a large room for up to 60 people, ideal for large events.
The training room can hold up to 20 people comfortably for training/workshops
The Lounge is a open area for anything that is not confidential and can hold up to 20 people. Smartboard, level access throughout, reasonable prices.
Rates and full details on the VAC website. Special rates for Camden networks.

Coronavirus COVID-19 – UK outbreak and latest advice

The UK Chief Medical Officers have raised the risk to the UK from low to moderate. This follows the World Health Organisation’s declaration that this is a public health emergency of international concern.
• Government information and advice here.
• NHS overview here
• NHS common questions here
Advice for employers and employees from Acas is available here.

Our mailing address is:
Charlie Ratchford Centre, Belmont Street, London, NW1 8HF

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