Category: Newsletter

UCLH Cancer Collaborative Workshop as part of Highlight Cancer project.

On the afternoon on Tuesday 13th February. The Highlight Cancer training forms part of the UCLH Cancer Collaborative, where one of our main remits is to improve the earlier diagnosis of cancer in order for patients to get the best opportunities of having curative treatments.
Highlight Cancer is a free, practical, down to earth training programme that gives you more confidence to discuss cancer openly with people in your community. It’s not a lesson or a lecture, it’s a shared experience that leaves you ready to have simple, yet powerful, conversations.
Our Highlight Cancer project focuses on building a network of ambassadors within the community that can raise awareness locally. Sign up via Eventbrite 

Are your service users suffering with the post-Christmas debt hangover?

People can fall into debt anytime of the year and for many reasons, but January/ February is the time when the Christmas spend begins to bite, with credit card bills, overdrafts and loans dropping through the letterbox.
Also our evidence shows us that more and more people are experiencing multiple and complex debts which are not easy to manage without some professional support.
Capitalise is a partnership of voluntary organisations led by Toynbee Hall that give free, professional, independent, accredited face-to-face advice on debt and money management and who are all FCA regulated.
To find out more please visit our website at www.capitalise.org.uk – we have a Freephone number 0808 164 2480 – and can also be found on twitter @CapitaliseLdn

The Pavement – a magazine for the homeless is holding a Fundraiser

At Groundswell on Feb 9th 3-6pm looking at changing perceptions of homelessness. They are looking for people who have had little or no interaction with the homeless sector to explore understandings of homelessness in a non judgemental environment.
Contact nicola@thepavement.org.uk  web: http://www.thepavement.org.uk/

The London Voices Citizen Journalism Competition 2018

The competition is open to everyone over the age of 14 who lives, works or studies in London, and is not a full-time paid journalist.
Entry to the competition is free and easy. No experience is needed – just an interest in telling a story
The competition is open from now until 21st May.
Find out more by clicking here and sending a message, or you can email us at londonvoices@londonlc.org.uk

The Wild Bunch Club Valentines Party

We look forward to seeing you at Electrowerkz, 7 Torrens Street, London EC1V 1NQ Wednesday 7th February for a 7pm start.
Over 18’s only, £5 on the door.
For further info contact berni.simons@elfrida.com or ring the Elfrida Society on 020 7359 7443.

Offers from Camden Garden Centre

Camden Garden Centre Charitable Trust or offering £5 off voucher and a prize draw.  Details here.

Camden Disability Action

Catch up with the latest news from Camden Disability Action.

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

Camden Community Festival Fund 2018

The fund is to sustain and develop Camden’s rich culture, its strong communities and dynamic partnerships by supporting quality, creative events, projects and activities. This year the fund is managed by Voluntary Action Camden (VAC).
Applications are welcome for grants of £200 to £5000 for:
~ Small-scale events with a capacity of under 500 people, the maximum amount that can be applied for is £500. Download the application here
~ Larger-scale events with a capacity of 500 people or more the maximum that can be applied for is £5,000. Please note the average is £1,000. Download the application here
A copy of the detailed guideline can be downloaded here.
The deadline for completed applications is: 23:59 on Wednesday 28th February 2018

Kitchen social is going under a transformation,

No longer is it about ensuring children at risk don’t go hungry but the new model looks at changing behaviour  which can assist families in getting out of poverty through a wide range of training modules, confidence and employment opportunities for parents, volunteers and teenagers 16 plus.
Kitchen social offers a grant of £1,200 each year for three years to support each hub to deliver 20 meals spread across the holidays.
Contact: Miguel Gonzalez, Kitchen Social Project Manager T: 020 7983 4254  M: 07706896741  www.mayorsfundforlondon.org.uk

Building a Stronger Britain Together Programme

There are both in-kind and grant funding opportunities available under the Building a Stronger Britain Together (BSBT) programme. This is a Home Office funded scheme which supports projects delivering any of the following outcomes:
· Increased sense of belonging and civic participation at the local level
· More resilient communities
· Fewer people holding attitudes, beliefs and feelings that oppose shared values
The programme aims to help groups who work to create more resilient communities to expand their reach and influence. Two forms of supports are available:
1. In-kind support: examples include social media training; materials to help fund-raising drives; help building a website; making films; tools for groups to expand their reach; advice on PR and media strategies; communications training for staff.
2. Grants: targeted funding for specific projects with demonstrable outcomes which provide a positive alternative to extremist voices.
Website: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/building-a-stronger-britain-together
Please contact Nyree Moore (nyree.moore@camden.gov.uk / 07771572976) for further information and support with the application process.

BBC Children in Need Small Grants

Grants of up to £10,000 (per year, for up to three years) are available to not for profit organisations working to support children and young people who are experiencing disadvantage.  The deadline for applications is Thurs 1st March.  Go to the BBC Children in Need website for full details.

National Churches Trust

The following grants are available to churches, chapels and meeting houses that are open for worship and part of a denomination belonging to Churches Together in Britain and Ireland:
~ Community Grants – £5,000 – £20,000for projects with an estimated cost of at least £25,000 that introduce facilities to increase community use of places of worship.  All types of community project will be considered but should include toilets and / or catering.  The deadline for applications is Mon 5th March.
~ Micro Grants (or Community Grant recipients) – £2,000 grants are available to places of worship who have already received a Community Grant, to set up a social action project for the benefit of local people. The deadline for applications is Mon 5th March.
See the National Churches Trust website for full details.

Weston Anniversary Fund

To celebrate the Foundation’s anniversary and the vital role of volunteers and community charities, we are excited to launch a additional grants scheme that will be open to applications from 5th January to 30th June 2018 exclusively – the Weston Anniversary Fund (capital fund £30k – £150K).
This is a Capital grants scheme and applying is a simple one-step process. Please read About the Fund, its Application Guidelines and take a quick quiz to find out if you are eligible to apply. And if you are, good luck!
If this fund doesn’t fit your particular charity or project, then you may want to consider applying to our ongoing, regular grants scheme at garfieldweston.org.

Camden Giving

Camden Giving have published the timetable for the various grants programmes they will be offering over the coming 12 months. There are 6 programmes in total. You can view the full timetable here.

Healthy Minds Programme with Mind in Camden

There is a full programme of activities taking place at the Living Centre as part of the Healthy Minds programme. Full details on the VAC training calendar.

Voluntary Action Camden working in partnership with Mary Ward Centre.

Coaching and Mentoring Introduction.
31^st January – 14^th February. 3 meetings.
This short course will give you an understanding of the difference between coaching and mentoring then illustrate the use of coaching and mentoring models and how to put theory into practice. Progression from this course is to the Award in Mentoring Skills course being held in May and June 2018.
Wednesday. 18.00 -20.30. £33. Concessions £11. Bursaries also available, on application, to meet part or all of the costs of the course and the course is free for anyone on JSA/ESA/Universal Credit or who is unemployed and on a means tested benefit and intending to use the course to find work.
For further information and to apply please contact Rahul Miah. rahul.miah@marywardcentre.ac.uk 020 7269 6042

Project Management.
Introductory Certificate. The APM Fundamentals Qualification. (www.apm.org.uk)
15^th February – 29 March. 7 meetings.
This course is for people who want skills in project management that could be applied in business or other environments. It is for those wishing to gain a broad understanding of the principles of the profession. Final assessment is by a short multiple-choice online exam. The course syllabus details are available on the Association for Project Management website – www.apm.org.uk.
Thursdays 18.00 – 20.30.  £425. Concessions £173. Bursaries also available, subject to application, to part or all of the costs of the course.
For further information and to apply please contact Rahul Miah. rahul.miah@marywardcentre.ac.uk 020 7269 6042

A Coaching and Mentoring Network

VAC, in partnership with residents and small businesses, has successfully set up a network of experienced and qualified coaches and mentors. This service is available free of charge, for up to six sessions, and is open to anyone involved in the voluntary and community sector in Camden.
The recruitment and matching process is about to commence. So, if you are interested in taking advantage of this offer, or you have staff, trustees or volunteers that may be interested, please contact Simone Hensby at VAC on 7284 6550. shensby@vac.org.uk

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

Free Making Every Contact Count (MECC) training for voluntary sector staff

If you work in Camden or Islington, you can access this FREE training to help you to signpost and support your clients to get the help they need earlier.
MECC training is about helping you to spot those opportunities in the thousands of conversations that you are already having with residents locally, having the confidence and skills to raise issues appropriately, and help you to signpost to further support                                                                                                                                   MECC training is available for free for voluntary sector organisations in Camden. The training includes:
– An e-learning module which focuses on awareness of needs, brief advice and signposting (40 minutes)
– Face to face training focusing on recognition of needs, brief advice, signposting and practicing skills for having a MECC conversation (3.5 hours)
New training dates have recently been released:  https://www.camdenmecc.org.uk/courses
We now offer bespoke MECC training for your teams, where we can deliver the training at your office, and tailor the training to suit your team’s needs. To book a bespoke session please contact mecc@islington.gov.uk

Resilient Families Training (aimed at front line professionals working with parents and young people regarding online safety, radicalisation and extremism)

Free training opportunities below () around online safety, radicalisation and extremism. The training will be delivered by ParentZone who specialise in training around digital safety and will run from 10am to 3pm.  Topics covered include:
· Working with families to respond to the specific risk of online radicalisation and extremism, suitable for parenting practitioners and community leaders already working with parents.
· The day will give an overview of online risk and harm with specific information on supporting parents to respond to the risk of online radicalisation and extremism.
· The course will equip professionals with the skills they need to support confident digital parenting, raising both parents’ and children’s resilience online.
· Includes an introduction to the Resilient Families online parenting course and post-course access to the Resilient Families course as PowerPoint presentations.
Staff are also given PowerPoints, videos and handouts to enable them to deliver the Resilient Families programme to parents.
Two training dates available:
14th February 2018; training held in room 10.10 Kiln, 5 Pancras Square – 2 spaces left
22nd February 2018; training held in Committee Room 4, Town Hall – 10 spaces left
Please contact Karina Kaur to book: Karina.Kaur@camden.gov.uk

Measuring mental wellbeing to improve the lives of children and young people

The Child Outcomes Research Consortium (CORC), in partnership with the Anna Freud Learning Network, has developed its first ever online eLearning module (free).
‘Measuring mental wellbeing to improve the lives of children and young people’

WEP AGM 15th February

The West Euston Partnership (WEP) cordially invites you to WEP’s Annual General Meeting.  Taking place on Thursday 15 February 2018, 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm, at WEP 29 – 31 Hampstead Road, NW1.
There will be refreshments from 6:45 pm.
Please RSVP, as soon as possible to sharon@westeuston.org

North Central London Workplace Health Business Breakfast

Islington Town Hall, Upper Street, London, 30th January 2018, 8.30 to 11.00 am
Organisations and local authorities in Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Haringey and Islington are building on work to improve the health and wellbeing of employees and productive workplaces.
Join us at this breakfast event to sign up to the London Healthy Workplace Charter, get inspiration for your health and wellbeing strategy and network with staff from across the North Central London area.
Please sign-up via Eventbrite.

Vision for Young Londoners: What’s the challenge for young Londoners? Consultations with Young People

Barriers to the creative industries
We are looking to speak to young people between the age of 14-25. We are hosting an event Monday, 19th February 2018 from 1:00pm to 4:00pm, food and travel reimbursements will be provided.
Literacy skills in non-formal education
Partnership for Young London and the National Literacy Trust are working together to explore the role of non-formal education.
Meeting for young people between the age of 14-25, especially those taking part in activities and programmes outside of school.  Monday, 19th February 2018 from 1:00pm to 4:00pm, food and travel reimbursements will be provided.
For more information about the project, please download the research briefing.
To get involved please contact zoe.nation@cityoflondon.gov.uk

Labelling and mental health stigma – Thursday 1st February 2018

Is the labelling of mental health conditions always helpful, or can it lead to additional stigma for service users?
For our next “Mental Health Matters” event, Tom Burns, C&I Non-Executive Director, Professor Emeritus of Social Psychiatry at Oxford University and Honorary Professor of Psychiatry at UCL, will suggest that competence and progress require the categorisation of knowledge.
Thursday 1 February 2018
Conference Centre, St Pancras Hospital
Doors open at 5.30pm, for a 6pm start

The Living Centre seeks Manager

30hrs per week  £40, 000 pro-rata
Somers Town Community Association is in a very exciting phase of its development. We are an ambitious and well respected “go to”, charity based in the heart of the Kings Cross “Knowledge Quarter” in London. We have a very strong, relationship with our local community and stakeholders and are proud of our central role in many partnerships and consortia.
We are now recruiting for a Living Centre Manager to help make this happen.
This is an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated person to make their mark and be part of one of the most amazing new facilities to be developed in Somers Town for generations.
The successful candidate will:-
Have at least two years’ proven experience of managing a front line community facility/building
Have a minimum of two years’ experience working directly with community groups in a paid or voluntary capacity; managing and developing community services, projects, or activities.
Have experience of fundraising inclusive of Local Authority, Trust & Foundation, Contract and CSR
Need to demonstrate the ability to work with and engage key stakeholders at every level, whilst understanding the complexity of diverse inner city communities
Have experience of developing and implementing strategies to achieve organizational objectives
Have excellent communication skills, oral and written and the ability to communicate effectively with and report to community groups and a wide range of stakeholders
Have experience of managing financial budgetsand successfully managed, developed and supported staff
Email: sarah@somerstown.org.uk  for an application pack
Closing date 25th February 2018 at midnight. Interviews w/c 5th March 2018

Law Centres Network (LCN) are recruiting a Learning and Transformation Lead to work with the 45 Law Centres

LCN supports across the country.  LCN is looking for someone to drive the on-going journey of learning, development and transformation within Law Centres so that they can continue to design and deliver legal and community services that support the needs of their clients & service-users.  The post will also support Law Centres to manage a complex legal organisation, with multiple funding streams (including legal aid), a significant network of external relationships and regulators, and a growing number of clients and service users.
The vacancy is posted on the LCN website: or you can email Vicki Leaver

Hopscotch Asian Women’s Centre is recruiting for an Administrative and Finance Assistant for the Building Better Opportunities project (BBO):

Administrative and Finance Assistant
35 hrs per week £20,645 incl. ILW
Closing date: 4th February 2018 at midnight
For an informal discussion about the post, please contact Isabelle Terrisson, Senior Operations Manager or Sachna Ali, Project Manager. For all other details and an application pack, please contact Ruksana Begum, HR Administrator: Tel: 020 7388 8198  E-mail: recruitment@hopscotchawc.org.uk  Web: www.hopscotchawc.org.uk
Please do not send CVs as they will not be considered. Hopscotch recruitment is carried out in line with the safer recruitment practices.

Helios Centre seeks Bookkeeper

The Helios Centre seeks a bookkeeper voluneer to take on data entry of cash sheets, writing cheques, reconciling bank statements, bookkeeping, general data entry. We need someone with a high level of bookkeeping experience and able to compile end of year accounts. Contact helios4volunteers@gmail.com

Elfrida Rathbone Camden seeks volunteers

Community Connector
Are you a parent or carer living in Camden? Have you ever thought of helping other parents by sharing tips, interesting activities happening in your community, and places to go with your family? Camden Futures is recruiting parent volunteers to become Community Connectors. Free training sessions for you to develop key skills for the Community Connectors’ role and responsibilities will take place on Friday 23rd February and Friday 2nd March. Travel expenses and lunch will be provided. For a full role description please go to our website: http://www2.elfridacamden.org.uk/work-with-us/volunteering-for-erc/.
To apply, please contact Myrvete by e-mail, myrvete@elfridacamden.org.uk or by phone on 02074241639.

Coram’s Fields and London Wildlife Trust seek volunteers

We are looking for a team of committed volunteers to help to maintain and manage the space. Activities will include planting, composting, weeding and pond maintenance. No experience is required and we offer flexible volunteering opportunities with training and support provided.
If you are interested in volunteering or for further information, please email kasheena@coramsfields.org.uk or call 020 3384 2205

Citizens Advice Camden is seeking Trustees including a Treasurer

CAB are looking for a number of new Trustees, including a Treasurer, to be responsible for the overall direction, vision and strategy of Citizens Advice Camden. We are seeking people who can provide governance, leadership and enthusiasm to lead Citizens Advice Camden into the future.
To apply send your CV with a letter of application to lisa.yates@camdencabservice.org.uk. The closing date for applications is 16 February 2018. Interviews will be held in the week commencing 26 February. Please state if there are any dates that week you are not available.

North Camden Zone Seeks New Steering Group Chair

We are looking for a Chair of the North Camden Zone Steering Group who is passionate about improving the life outcomes for children and young people in Camden. You may be a community leader or senior professional with an in depth knowledge and /or experience of the issues that affect children and young people. You are interested in a collaborative approach involving the community and professionals, and implementing place based systems change.
If you would like to find out more please follow this link. The closing date is 23rd of February 2018.

Office Space to let at Clean Break in Kentish Town

Clean Break is inviting you take up residence in our North London studios to be part of our vibrant community of artists and facilitators working across theatre and criminal justice. We have a number of office spaces available for short term lease, as well as hot-desking space, meeting rooms, therapy rooms and studios for hire. We also offer women-only work spaces. Our building is in a prime location, situated just a short walk from Kentish Town station, Kentish Town West and Camden.  We will provide broadband and phone lines, and can offer some office furniture and desktop PCs at your request, as well as regular discounted rates on rehearsal and meeting spaces. For more information or prices contact Rachel at studios@cleanbreak.org.uk or call 020 7482 8600.

Desk Space to Rent

Bloom.space office is in Bloomsbury adjacent to University College London on Gower Street and provides a productive and calm environment in which to run your organisation.
The Office has 30 fixed desks with additional hot desks, lockers, breakout space, a meeting room, teleconferencing equipment, presentation equipment, bike storage and an on-site gym with saunas.
We offer workspace with a range of benefits including:
Full Time Fixed Desks
Hot Desks
Lockers for secure storage
Registered business address
Free tea & coffee
200Mbps fibre option broadband with fast WiFi
Free colour printing & copying
Function rooms and meeting rooms available
Prices are £350pcm for each desk, £150pcm for hot desks (or a combination of these) with no VAT to add.
See www.bloom.space or contact jack@bloom.space call 07711502041 for more information.

Cosy office to let in friendly Kilburn community centre.

Just £60 per week including fitted desks, internet access, two white/notice boards, and generous wall storage. Great for 2 people, and okay for 3. Near various tubes, rail links and buses. Interested? Please contact: reception@abbeycc-kilburn.org.uk . Abbey Community Centre, NW6 4DJ.

Our mailing address is:
29 – 31 Hampstead Road, London, NW1 3JA

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Community Partner for Counter Extremism in Camden

Nyree Moore has recently started in post as a Community Partner for Counter Extremism at Camden Council. Nyree’s role is to build an understanding of the harms extremism causes within the borough (e.g. segregation, isolation, discrimination, hate crime) and to support Camden groups who are doing important work to build stronger, more cohesive communities.
Nyree can help signpost groups towards Home Office funding and work with them to submit bids, reading proposals and providing help with applications where possible. She’ll also help build connections between groups, making introductions and promoting projects where those running them might not have the time or resources to do so.
Please feel free to contact Nyree if you have any questions or wish to discuss further: 07771572976 or nyree.moore@camden.gov.uk

Exciting new opportunities for people affected by cancer to shape services

Are you a patient or carer affected by cancer? Would you like  help shape cancer services and improve early diagnosis?
UCLH Cancer Collaborative is currently recruiting for patients and carers who would like to be involved in a number of exciting opportunities. These include innovative projects for early diagnosis, measuring quality of life after treatment, and looking at driving improvements in patient experience and outcomes for care pathways for specific cancer types.
You must be committed to working collaboratively and broadly representing the diverse views and needs of people affected by cancer. Participation in other cancer networks and people with links to community groups is considered really helpful.
To find out more contact uclh.getinvolvedwithcancer1@nhs.net or call 020 344 72779 or 07950 960 159.

Camden Housing Association Residents Group

At the beginning of 2016 Camden Federation of Private Tenants (CFPT) set up the first ever borough wide group for housing association (HA) tenants. This was in response to a recommendation made by Camden Council’s Housing Scrutiny Committee and growing concerns that many people felt their landlords were unaccountable and weren’t listening and responding to their needs.
However, in recognition of the fact that these landlords now cover tenants, shared ownership, leaseholders and also people on “affordable” and market rents, the group now covers ALL residents of HAs and housing co-op tenants as well.
We do understand that many people view housing associations as part of the social housing sector, but due mainly to the reduction in grants from central government more and more of them are “sweating their assets” and moving increasingly towards the private sector. The regulator also describes them as “private registered providers.”
In addition to hosting the quarterly meetings of the group (which take place in the evening), we regularly deal with a number of HAs who operate in the borough around service delivery issues, so if any of your users are HA residents and need help and support with this, please feel free to put them in touch with us.
We would also be happy to come and speak to your organisation about this group and the work we generally do with private tenants.  Contact Robert Taylor rtaylor@cfpt.org.uk or Tel: 020 7383 0151

Transforming children and young people’s mental health – 14 February 2018, 10.30am-1pm, Kentish Town

The government are consulting on the Transforming children and young people’s mental health provision green paper which outlines proposals that include a proactive role for schools in supporting children and young people and enabling a wider understanding of mental health issues.
Our health network event will:
~ outline current work via the Healthy London Partnership to improve experiences of mental health provision
~ hear more about current work within the voluntary and community sector
~ provide an opportunity to explore proposals in the Transforming children and young people’s mental health provision green paper
This free event is aimed at voluntary and community organisations, particularly those working with black and minority ethnic communities.  Register at Eventbrite.

Measuring mental wellbeing to improve the lives of children and young people

The Child Outcomes Research Consortium (CORC), in partnership with the Anna Freud Learning Network, has developed its first ever online eLearning module (free).
‘Measuring mental wellbeing to improve the lives of children and young people’

WEP AGM 15th February

The West Euston Partnership (WEP) cordially invites you to WEP’s Annual General Meeting.  Taking place on Thursday 15 February 2018, 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm, at WEP 29 – 31 Hampstead Road, NW1.
There will be refreshments from 6:45 pm.
Please RSVP, as soon as possible to sharon@westeuston.org

What’s On In Camden on Camden Community Radio

Including the Camden People’s Theatre, Lumiere light festival. Listen here.

Healthy Minds, Project Management, Peer Mentoring

See ‘VAC Training’ section for full details of forthcoming courses.

Lumiere London 2018

See King’s Cross transformed by the world’s most exciting light artists
Thursday 18th January 2018 – Sunday 21st January 2018. Full details here.

Camden Disability Action

Catch up with the latest news from Camden Disability Action.

6 things you need to know about… small and micro community organisations

Civil Society Futures says we urgently need a better understanding of their role and contribution in a healthy and diverse society, and how they differ from their bigger cousins.

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

Camden Community Festival Fund 2018

Camden Council is supporting this grants programme in recognition of the contribution made by community festivals and events to strengthening Camden communities and in developing a rich culture and economy within the borough.
The fund is to sustain and develop Camden’s rich culture, its strong communities and dynamic partnerships by supporting quality, creative events, projects and activities. This year the fund is managed by Voluntary Action Camden (VAC).
Applications are welcome for grants of £200 to £5000 for:
~ Small-scale events with a capacity of under 500 people, the maximum amount that can be applied for is £500. A copy of the application form can be downloaded here
~ Larger-scale events with a capacity of 500 people or more the maximum that can be applied for is £5,000. Please note the average is £1,000. A copy of the application form can be downloaded here
A copy of the detailed guideline can be downloaded here.
The application process is open from Wednesday 3rd January 2018
The deadline for completed applications is: 23:59 on Wednesday 28th February 2018

Building a Stronger Britain Together Programme

There are both in-kind and grant funding opportunities available under the Building a Stronger Britain Together (BSBT) programme. This is a Home Office funded scheme which supports projects delivering any of the following outcomes:
· Increased sense of belonging and civic participation at the local level
· More resilient communities
· Fewer people holding attitudes, beliefs and feelings that oppose shared values
The programme aims to help groups who work to create more resilient communities to expand their reach and influence. Two forms of supports are available:
1. In-kind support: examples include social media training; materials to help fund-raising drives; help building a website; making films; tools for groups to expand their reach; advice on PR and media strategies; communications training for staff.
2. Grants: targeted funding for specific projects with demonstrable outcomes which provide a positive alternative to extremist voices.
Website: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/building-a-stronger-britain-together
Please contact Nyree Moore (nyree.moore@camden.gov.uk / 07771572976) for further information and support with the application process.

BBC Children in Need Small Grants

Grants of up to £10,000 (per year, for up to three years) are available to not for profit organisations working to support children and young people who are experiencing disadvantage.  The deadline for applications is Thurs 1st March.  Go to the BBC Children in Need website for full details.

National Vegetarian Week Grants

Grants are available for events and activities taking place in, and promoting National Vegetarian Week (Taking place 14th to 20th May).  To be eligible the activities must be:
~ Held during, and promote, National Vegetarian Week.
~ Celebrate and promote vegetarian food.
~ Be exclusively vegetarian or vegan.
Applications are welcomed from informal groups and not for profit organisations.  There are two levels of grants:
~ Small Grants – up to £200.
~ Larger Grants – up to £2,000.
The deadline for applications is Sun 25th February. See www.nationalvegetarianweek.org/grants/

The Rowing Foundation

Grants of £500 – £3,000 are available to cover up to 50% of project costs that encourage young people (under 18 or in full time education) to participate in rowing.  Priority will be shown to projects encouraging the young or disabled through equipment such as boats, sculls, ergos, oars and essential safety equipment. The deadline for applications is Weds 14th February.   See www.therowingfoundation.org.uk/

National Churches Trust

The following grants are available to churches, chapels and meeting houses that are open for worship and part of a denomination belonging to Churches Together in Britain and Ireland:
~ Community Grants – £5,000 – £20,000for projects with an estimated cost of at least £25,000 that introduce facilities to increase community use of places of worship.  All types of community project will be considered but should include toilets and / or catering.  The deadline for applications is Mon 5th March.
~ Micro Grants (For Community Grant recipients) – £2,000 grants are available to places of worship who have already received a Community Grant, to set up a social action project for the benefit of local people. The deadline for applications is Mon 5th March.
See the National Churches Trust website for full details.

The Third Round of Rosa’s Woman to Woman Fund – deadline soon

With grants of up to £25,000, local grassroots women’s organisations across the UK will be supported using funds from the ‘Tampon Tax.’ In celebration of the centenary of the women’s vote, this round of the Woman to Woman fund will have a renewed focus on leadership and representation and we are particularly interested in funding work that increases women’s representation, skills building and civic engagement.
Grants are available for groups with an income of under £100,000 per year, to support a wide range of charitable work that benefits women: from building confidence and leadership skills, tackling harassment and violence, to training in financial literacy and increasing engagement in decision-making.
As well as grants, Rosa will provide additional support including mentoring, training and networking opportunities. Find out more at the Rosa website.

Weston Anniversary Fund

To celebrate the Foundation’s anniversary and the vital role of volunteers and community charities, we are excited to launch a additional grants scheme that will be open to applications from 5th January to 30th June 2018 exclusively – the Weston Anniversary Fund (capital fund £30k – £150K).
This is a Capital grants scheme and applying is a simple one-step process. Please read About the Fund, its Application Guidelines and take a quick quiz to find out if you are eligible to apply. And if you are, good luck!
If this fund doesn’t fit your particular charity or project, then you may want to consider applying to our ongoing, regular grants scheme at garfieldweston.org.

The Community Shares Booster programme

£3 million funding is available for local people wanting to put business into community hands.
If you’re a local group needing an extra boost to set up or grow a community business, you can access up to £10,000 to help launch your community share offer and up to £100,000 match funding when the share offer goes live. Find out more at locality.org.uk

Camden Giving

Camden Giving have published the timetable for the various grants programmes they will be offering over the coming 12 months. There are 6 programmes in total. You can view the full timetable here.

Healthy Minds Programme with Mind in Camden

There is a full programme of activities taking place at the Living Centre as part of the Healthy Minds programme. Full details on the VAC training calendar.

Voluntary Action Camden working in partnership with Mary Ward Centre.

Coaching and Mentoring Introduction.
31^st January – 14^th February. 3 meetings.
This short course will give you an understanding of the difference between coaching and mentoring then illustrate the use of coaching and mentoring models and how to put theory into practice. Progression from this course is to the Award in Mentoring Skills course being held in May and June 2018.
Wednesday. 18.00 -20.30. £33. Concessions £11. Bursaries also available, on application, to meet part or all of the costs of the course and the course is free for anyone on JSA/ESA/Universal Credit or who is unemployed and on a means tested benefit and intending to use the course to find work.
For further information and to apply please contact Rahul Miah. rahul.miah@marywardcentre.ac.uk 020 7269 6042

Project Management.
Introductory Certificate. The APM Fundamentals Qualification. (www.apm.org.uk)
15^th February – 29 March. 7 meetings.
This course is for people who want skills in project management that could be applied in business or other environments. It is for those wishing to gain a broad understanding of the principles of the profession. Final assessment is by a short multiple-choice online exam. The course syllabus details are available on the Association for Project Management website – www.apm.org.uk.
Thursdays 18.00 – 20.30.  £425. Concessions £173. Bursaries also available, subject to application, to part or all of the costs of the course.
For further information and to apply please contact Rahul Miah. rahul.miah@marywardcentre.ac.uk 020 7269 6042

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

There are still a few places left on some courses taking place at West Euston Partnership

Money Talk – this course will offer practical financial advice to local residents and help them take better charge of their spending. This will be taking place on Wednesday mornings starting 17th January.
Professional English – people who are actively seeking work will receive one-to-one tuition for 8 weeks to help improve their work-based vocabulary based on the sector of their choice. Clients can either study on a Monday or Wednesday morning. Assessments  will take place on Monday 22nd January and Wednesday 24th January with the lessons beginning on Monday 29th and Wednesday 31st January.  Clients must already be at ESOL Entry 2 Level.
How To Be Self Employed – a very practical and informative one-day workshop aimed at people who have a business idea but are unsure about how to take the next step. The workshop takes place on Tuesday 6th February.
Mental Health First Aid – a two-day course that will provide people with practical steps to supporting those experiencing mental health issues. The course will take place in early February (final date to be confirmed). Contact David Hermanstein; David.Hermanstein@camden.gov.uk  Tel: 020 7388 7932  or 07908845154

The role of the Civil Society Futures Inquiry: issues and opportunities for social action, community development & community work

Thursday 1st February 2018, 6.30pm – 8.30pm Richard Hoggart Building Room 144, Goldsmiths, University of London, New Cross SE14 6NW
Julia Unwin CBE is chair of the Independent Inquiry into the Future of Civil Society. Julia is former Chief Executive of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation and author of several books, including “Why Fight Poverty?” published in 2013.
Following Julia’s presentation there will be a short Q&A followed by a panel discussion including London community activists and academics. Book at Eventbrite

North Central London Workplace Health Business Breakfast

Islington Town Hall, Upper Street, London, 30th January 2018, 8.30 to 11.00 am
Organisations and local authorities in Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Haringey and Islington are building on work to improve the health and wellbeing of employees and productive workplaces.
Join us at this breakfast event to sign up to the London Healthy Workplace Charter, get inspiration for your health and wellbeing strategy and network with staff from across the North Central London area.
Please sign-up via Eventbrite.

Vision for Young Londoners: What’s the challenge for young Londoners? Consultations with Young People

Barriers to the creative industries
We are looking to speak to young people between the age of 14-25. We are hosting an event Monday, 19th February 2018 from 1:00pm to 4:00pm, food and travel reimbursements will be provided.
Literacy skills in non-formal education
Partnership for Young London and the National Literacy Trust are working together to explore the role of non-formal education.
Meeting for young people between the age of 14-25, especially those taking part in activities and programmes outside of school.  Monday, 19th February 2018 from 1:00pm to 4:00pm, food and travel reimbursements will be provided.
For more information about the project, please download the research briefing.
To get involved please contact zoe.nation@cityoflondon.gov.uk

Labelling and mental health stigma – Thursday 1st February 2018

Is the labelling of mental health conditions always helpful, or can it lead to additional stigma for service users?
For our next “Mental Health Matters” event, Tom Burns, C&I Non-Executive Director, Professor Emeritus of Social Psychiatry at Oxford University and Honorary Professor of Psychiatry at UCL, will suggest that competence and progress require the categorisation of knowledge.
Thursday 1 February 2018
Conference Centre, St Pancras Hospital
Doors open at 5.30pm, for a 6pm start

Thyroid Trust

Next public meeting on 20 January at Crown Court Church, Russell Street, Covent Garden WC2. Speaker, Jo Clayton,  will give a talk about her experiences of mental health disturbances caused by her thyroid condition and her return to wellness. The meeting will include a guided meditation and discussion of self care techniques we can all use to calm the mind at times of stress. www.thyroidtrust.org

Camden 2025

One of the ways you can get involved is to come along to one of the local events in January held across the borough where you can share your ideas for what Camden should be like in 2025.  Meet local councillors and staff from the council, and find out what other local residents and community groups are saying. Each event will start with some short talks, but feel free to drop in at any time.
If you would like further details about the events or if you require access needs to attend one of the events please contact Camden2025@camden.gov.uk.

Casa Latina seeks Nursery Nurse

Menchú Nursery (Centro Infantil Menchú) is looking for a bilingual (Spanish-English) nursery nurse, to join our small nursery based in Kilburn, North West London.  Menchú Nursery (Centro Infantil Menchú) is part of Latin American House’s Children’s Education Project
The ideal candidate will be qualified to a Level 3 in early years or equivalent, and will have experience working in a nursery environment.
Knowledge of EYFS is essential.
Closing date for applications: 26 January 2018, 5 pm. Interview date: week beginning 6 February 2018.
Full details of this position and application form are available on our website: www.casalatina.org.uk

VAWG seeks Outreach and Prevention Coordinator (Portuguese-speaking)

Four days per week Salary: £27,550 pro rata
We are seeking an Outreach and Prevention Coordinator to provide support to Latin American women (particularly from Brazil) seeking support in the area of VAWG, undertake outreach activities and service delivery in specific boroughs; undertake education and prevention work with the community and continue developing LAWRS’ services to tackle “honour” based violence and other forms of VAWG.
Please send your application and Equality Opportunities monitoring form to Amanda Odelius, Administrator, either via email to amanda@lawrs.org.uk or by post (Tindlemanor, 52-54 Featherstone Street, London EC1Y 8RT),  quoting reference: VAWGP18.
Contract: Fixed term ending March 2019.
Job Description: VAWG Outreach Prevention Worker
Application form: Application form
Equal Opportunities Form: Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form
Deadline: Sunday 04th February 2018
Interviews to be held within the following 2 weeks.

Helios Centre seeks Bookkeeper

The Helios Centre seeks a bookkeeper voluneer to take on data entry of cash sheets, writing cheques, reconciling bank statements, bookkeeping, general data entry. We need someone with a high level of bookkeeping experience and able to compile end of year accounts. Contact helios4volunteers@gmail.com

Elfrida Rathbone Camden seeks volunteers

Finance and Administrative Volunteer at Elfrida Rathbone Camden
Elfrida Rathbone Camden works to achieve independence, empowerment and personal development for disabled people and families in the Camden area. Our services include family support, disability awareness training and social and educational opportunities for young people with learning disabilities. We are currently seeking a volunteer to assist the finance and admin manager in the day-to-day financial activities, and to contribute to the development of existing and new finance systems. For a full role description please go to our website: http://www2.elfridacamden.org.uk/work-with-us/volunteering-for-erc/.
To apply, please send a CV and cover letter to Chris McCauley at chris@elfridacamden.org.uk. Don’t hesitate to phone us on 02074241621 if you have any questions.
Community Connector
Are you a parent or carer living in Camden? Have you ever thought of helping other parents by sharing tips, interesting activities happening in your community, and places to go with your family? Camden Futures is recruiting parent volunteers to become Community Connectors. Free training sessions for you to develop key skills for the Community Connectors’ role and responsibilities will take place on Friday 23rd February and Friday 2nd March. Travel expenses and lunch will be provided. For a full role description please go to our website: http://www2.elfridacamden.org.uk/work-with-us/volunteering-for-erc/.
To apply, please contact Myrvete by e-mail, myrvete@elfridacamden.org.uk or by phone on 02074241639.

Coram’s Fields and London Wildlife Trust seek volunteers

We are looking for a team of committed volunteers to help to maintain and manage the space. Activities will include planting, composting, weeding and pond maintenance. No experience is required and we offer flexible volunteering opportunities with training and support provided.
If you are interested in volunteering or for further information, please email kasheena@coramsfields.org.uk or call 020 3384 2205

Citizens Advice Camden is seeking Trustees including a Treasurer

CAB are looking for a number of new Trustees, including a Treasurer, to be responsible for the overall direction, vision and strategy of Citizens Advice Camden. We are seeking people who can provide governance, leadership and enthusiasm to lead Citizens Advice Camden into the future.
To apply send your CV with a letter of application to lisa.yates@camdencabservice.org.uk. The closing date for applications is 16 February 2018. Interviews will be held in the week commencing 26 February. Please state if there are any dates that week you are not available.

North Camden Zone Seeks New Steering Group Chair

We are looking for a Chair of the North Camden Zone Steering Group who is passionate about improving the life outcomes for children and young people living in Camden. You may be a community leader or senior professional with an in depth knowledge and /or experience of the issues that affect children and young people. You are interested in a collaborative approach involving the community and professionals, and implementing place based systems change.
If you would like to find out more please follow this link. The closing date is 23rd of February 2018.

Office Space to let at Clean Break in Kentish Town

Clean Break is inviting you take up residence in our North London studios to be part of our vibrant community of artists and facilitators working across theatre and criminal justice. We have a number of office spaces available for short term lease, as well as hot-desking space, meeting rooms, therapy rooms and studios for hire. We also offer women-only work spaces. Our building is in a prime location, situated just a short walk from Kentish Town station, Kentish Town West and Camden.  We will provide broadband and phone lines, and can offer some office furniture and desktop PCs at your request, as well as regular discounted rates on rehearsal and meeting spaces. For more information or prices contact Rachel at studios@cleanbreak.org.uk or call 020 7482 8600.

Desk Space to Rent

Bloom.space office is in Bloomsbury adjacent to University College London on Gower Street and provides a productive and calm environment in which to run your organisation.
The Office has 30 fixed desks with additional hot desks, lockers, breakout space, a meeting room, teleconferencing equipment, presentation equipment, bike storage and an on-site gym with saunas.
We offer workspace with a range of benefits including:
Full Time Fixed Desks
Hot Desks
Lockers for secure storage
Registered business address
Free tea & coffee
200Mbps fibre option broadband with fast WiFi
Free colour printing & copying
Function rooms and meeting rooms available
Prices are £350pcm for each desk, £150pcm for hot desks (or a combination of these) with no VAT to add.
See www.bloom.space or contact jack@bloom.space call 07711502041 for more information.

Cosy office to let in friendly Kilburn community centre.

Just £60 per week including fitted desks, internet access, two white/notice boards, and generous wall storage. Great for 2 people, and okay for 3. Near various tubes, rail links and buses. Interested? Please contact: reception@abbeycc-kilburn.org.uk . Abbey Community Centre, NW6 4DJ.

Our mailing address is:
29 – 31 Hampstead Road, London, NW1 3JA

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Personalisation Support in Camden (PSiC) Launches New Website

PSiC is committed to providing support in setting up direct payments to fund services for all residents of Camden.  Services include doing the start-up paperwork, organising the payroll nad recuitment.
Visit the site at www.psic.org.uk and send your feedback to info@psic.org.uk or phone 020 7383 4901.  Full announcement here.

New Year, New You

The free quiz to help you make healthy changes in 2018
New Year is a time when adults across the country are thinking about healthy changes they can make in 2018 and the How Are You quiz is a great tool to help you get started. How Are You is a free online quiz which helps adults to identify changes they could make to their health as well as providing personalised recommendations of proven tools and advice to help them take action where they most need it. If you also work with local residents, why not make them aware of the quiz also?
To take the first step to a new healthier you in 2018, visit http://oneyoucamden.org/ and take the How Are You quiz today.
Please contact donna.kelly@camden.gov.uk if you would like One You health promotion campaign packs for your organisation in 2018.

Vision for Young Londoners: What’s the challenge for young Londoners? Consultations with Young People

Barriers to the creative industries
Partnership for Young London and the Roundhouse are conducting research into the barriers for young Londoners seeking a career in the creative industries. The creative industries are one of London’s fastest growing sectors, but how can we make sure that opportunity is afforded to all young people?
We are looking to speak to young people, with or without experience of the creative industries, between the age of 14-25. We are hosting an event Monday, 19th February 2018 from 1:00pm to 4:00pm, food and travel reimbursements will be provided.
Literacy skills in non-formal education
Partnership for Young London and the National Literacy Trust are working together to explore the role of non-formal education. The aim of this research is to better understand the relationship between the informal sector and the development of young people’s literacy skills in London.
We are looking to speak to young people between the age of 14-25, especially those taking part in activities and programmes outside of school. We are hosting an event Monday, 19th February 2018 from 1:00pm to 4:00pm, food and travel reimbursements will be provided.
For more information about the project, please download the research briefing.
To get involved, or if you know of those who would like to be involved, please contact zoe.nation@cityoflondon.gov.uk

What’s On In Camden, 8th January 2018

Including the Wellcome Trust’s exhibition on how graphic design influences our perception of human bodies; sewing classes at Maiden Lane with run by the Working Men’s College. Or working with clay, run by the Camden Town Shed. Listen here.

Healthy Minds, Project Management, Business Start-Up, Peer Mentoring

See ‘VAC Training’ section for full details of forthcoming courses.

Interested in Housing in NW3?

Joing the NW3 Community Land Trust (CLT).  Members welcome.  More information here – just follow the link http://nw3clt.org.uk/membership.html#membership1

Lumiere London 2018

See King’s Cross transformed by the world’s most exciting light artists
Thursday 18th January 2018 – Sunday 21st January 2018. Full details here.

North Central London Workplace Health Business Breakfast

Islington Town Hall, Upper Street, London, 30th January 2018, 8.30 to 11.00 am
Organisations and local authorities in Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Haringey and Islington are building on work to improve the health and wellbeing of employees and productive workplaces.
Join us at this breakfast event to sign up to the London Healthy Workplace Charter, get inspiration for your health and wellbeing strategy and network with staff from across the North Central London area.
Please sign-up via Eventbrite.

The Winch is Running a Respite Space for Chalcots Estate Residents

Do you live in the Chalcots Estate and need a quiet space away from the building works?
You are welcome to come to the Winch for a cup of tea and a chat. We also offer a child-friendly space!
If you have any requirements please let us know by emailing  madalina@northcamdenzone.org or calling 020 7586 8731.

Camden Disability Action

Catch up with the latest news from Camden Disability Action.

The NHS is in crisis. But it’s not up to volunteers to rescue it

Volunteers are not a source of cheap labour to patch up underfunded and under-supported public services. Dan Corry of think tank New Philanthropy Capital responds to recent moves in the NHS (and elsewhere in the public sector) including the setting up of new volunteering organisation Helpforce by top city financier with some controversial views. Full story in the Guardian.

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

Camden Festival Fund – see maim feature for details

The Third Round of Rosa’s Woman to Woman Fund is Open

With grants of up to £25,000, local grassroots women’s organisations across the UK will be supported using funds from the ‘Tampon Tax.’ In celebration of the centenary of the women’s vote, this round of the Woman to Woman fund will have a renewed focus on leadership and representation and we are particularly interested in funding work that increases women’s representation, skills building and civic engagement.
Grants are available for groups with an income of under £100,000 per year, to support a wide range of charitable work that benefits women: from building confidence and leadership skills, tackling harassment and violence, to training in financial literacy and increasing engagement in decision-making – and much more besides.
As well as grants, Rosa will provide additional support that women’s groups tell us they need, including mentoring, training and networking opportunities. Find out more at the Rosa website.

Weston Anniversary Fund

To celebrate the Foundation’s anniversary and the vital role of volunteers and community charities, we are excited to launch a additional grants scheme that will be open to applications from 5th January to 30th June 2018 exclusively – the Weston Anniversary Fund (capital fund £30k – £150K).
This is a Capital grants scheme and applying is a simple one-step process. Please read About the Fund, its Application Guidelines and take a quick quiz to find out if you are eligible to apply. And if you are, good luck!
If this fund doesn’t fit your particular charity or project, then you may want to consider applying to our ongoing, regular grants scheme at garfieldweston.org.

The Community Shares Booster programme

£3 million funding is available for local people wanting to put business into community hands.
If you’re a local group needing an extra boost to set up or grow a community business, you can access up to £10,000 to help launch your community share offer and up to £100,000 match funding when the share offer goes live. Find out more at locality.org.uk

Camden Giving

Camden Giving have published the timetable for the various grants programmes they will be offering over the coming 12 months. There are 6 programmes in total. You can view the full timetable here.

Healthy Minds Programme with Mind in Camden

There is a full programme of activities taking place at the Living Centre as part of the Healthy Minds programme. Full details on the VAC training calendar.

Voluntary Action Camden working in partnership with Mary Ward Centre.

Business Start Up for Social Enterprise, Micro Enterprise, Sole Trader.
11^th January – 08 February. 5 meetings.
Not your standard business start-up course. Straddle the social and business divide by using your own life experience in paid or voluntary work to set up a business enterprise with a social focus. This course covers the practical steps needed to set up as a sole trader and/or a micro enterprise and/or a social enterprise.
Thursdays. 17.30-20.30. £65. Concessions £23. Bursaries also available, on application,  to meet part or all of the costs of the course and the course is free for anyone on JSA/ESA/Universal Credit or who is unemployed and on a means tested benefit and intending to use the course to find work.
For further information and to apply please contact Rahul Miah. rahul.miah@marywardcentre.ac.uk 020 7269 6042

Coaching and Mentoring Introduction.
31^st January – 14^th February. 3 meetings.
This short course will give you an understanding of the difference between coaching and mentoring then illustrate the use of coaching and mentoring models and how to put theory into practice. Progression from this course is to the Award in Mentoring Skills course being held in May and June 2018.
Wednesday. 18.00 -20.30. £33. Concessions £11. Bursaries also available, on application, to meet part or all of the costs of the course and the course is free for anyone on JSA/ESA/Universal Credit or who is unemployed and on a means tested benefit and intending to use the course to find work.
For further information and to apply please contact Rahul Miah. rahul.miah@marywardcentre.ac.uk 020 7269 6042

Project Management.
Introductory Certificate. The APM Fundamentals Qualification. (www.apm.org.uk)
15^th February – 29 March. 7 meetings.
This course is for people who want skills in project management that could be applied in business or other environments. It is for those wishing to gain a broad understanding of the principles of the profession. Final assessment is by a short multiple-choice online exam. The course syllabus details are available on the Association for Project Management website – www.apm.org.uk.
Thursdays 18.00 – 20.30.  £425. Concessions £173. Bursaries also available, subject to application, to part or all of the costs of the course.
For further information and to apply please contact Rahul Miah. rahul.miah@marywardcentre.ac.uk 020 7269 6042

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

The Recovery College is open for enrolment for Spring Term 2018

There are free courses running January to March for everyone 18+ in Camden and Islington including several new courses running next term, including:
· Anger management
· LGBT and mental health
· Eating for wellbeing
· Singing for health
· Understanding BME cultures and mental health
You can find our new course guide and calendar attached and online at our webpage: www.candi.nhs.uk/recoverycollege    Hard copies are available at the College.

Labelling and mental health stigma – Thursday 1st February 2018

Is the labelling of mental health conditions always helpful, or can it lead to additional stigma for service users?
For our next “Mental Health Matters” event, Tom Burns, C&I Non-Executive Director, Professor Emeritus of Social Psychiatry at Oxford University and Honorary Professor of Psychiatry at UCL, will suggest that competence and progress require the categorisation of knowledge.
Thursday 1 February 2018
Conference Centre, St Pancras Hospital
Doors open at 5.30pm, for a 6pm start

Family Support Volunteer

Are you a parent, grandparent or have parenting experience?
Can you give 3 – 4 hours weekly to visit a family with young children who may be going through a difficult time?
Enhance your skills with our training, supervision and fulfilling volunteer role
Next Preparation Course Starting 17th January to 14th March. Every Wednesday 9.45 am to 2.45 pm
Certificates awarded & expenses paid
For information pack ring 020 7424 1603. email: info@homestartcamden.org or go to the website: www.homestartcamden.org.uk

Thyroid Trust

Next public meeting on 20 January at Crown Court Church, Russell Street, Covent Garden WC2. Speaker, Jo Clayton,  will give a talk about her experiences of mental health disturbances caused by her thyroid condition and her return to wellness. The meeting will include a guided meditation and discussion of self care techniques we can all use to calm the mind at times of stress. www.thyroidtrust.org

Camden 2025

One of the ways you can get involved is to come along to one of the local events in January held across the borough where you can share your ideas for what Camden should be like in 2025.  Meet local councillors and staff from the council, and find out what other local residents and community groups are saying. Each event will start with some short talks, but feel free to drop in at any time.
If you would like further details about the events or if you require access needs to attend one of the events please contact Camden2025@camden.gov.uk.

Black Women, Womanist learning and Higher Education: the Politics of Representation and Community Activism

13th February 2018 free
This conference led by Dr Jan Etienne through Birkbeck’s Institute for Social Research will examine the role of the black woman in promoting learning development and community activism. It brings together the work of researchers, academics and activists in the fields of gender, ‘race’, education and community development to explore womanism and the influence of education for building stronger, local communities.
For more details and to sign up, follow the link below:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/black-women-womanist-learning-and-higher-education-the-politics-of-representation-and-community-tickets-40151089991

Casa Latina seeks Nursery Nurse

Menchú Nursery (Centro Infantil Menchú) is looking for a bilingual (Spanish-English) nursery nurse, to join our small nursery based in Kilburn, North West London.  Menchú Nursery (Centro Infantil Menchú) is part of Latin American House’s Children’s Education Project
The ideal candidate will be qualified to a Level 3 in early years or equivalent, and will have experience working in a nursery environment.
Knowledge of EYFS is essential.
Closing date for applications: 26 January 2018, 5 pm. Interview date: week beginning 6 February 2018.
Full details of this position and application form are available on our website: www.casalatina.org.uk

Citizens Advice Camden is seeking Trustees including a Treasurer

CAB are looking for a number of new Trustees, including a Treasurer, to be responsible for the overall direction, vision and strategy of Citizens Advice Camden. We are seeking people who can provide governance, leadership and enthusiasm to lead Citizens Advice Camden into the future.
To apply send your CV with a letter of application to lisa.yates@camdencabservice.org.uk. The closing date for applications is 16 February 2018. Interviews will be held in the week commencing 26 February. Please state if there are any dates that week you are not available.

North Camden Zone Seeks New Steering Group Chair

We are looking for a Chair of the North Camden Zone Steering Group who is passionate about improving the life outcomes for children and young people living in Camden. You may be a community leader or senior professional with an in depth knowledge and /or experience of the issues that affect children and young people. You are interested in a collaborative approach involving the community and professionals, and implementing place based systems change.
If you would like to find out more please follow this link. The closing date is 23rd of February 2018.

Lauderdale House is seeking a Marketing & Communications Manager

Following a major £2.3m refurbishment a year ago we are looking for a dynamic individual to help move the organisation to a new level and expand our reach and profile, increasing audience for arts and education, establish a new profile for heritage, support our individual giving programme and increase our hospitality hires.  Closing date 15th January.
Email  sstocker@lauderdale.org.uk  for the full job description or look at http://www.lauderdalehouse.org.uk/page.asp?ID=2678&PID=51
Please send a current CV and tailored covering letter explaining how your skills and experience match the requirements for this to sstocker@lauderdale.org.uk

Evelyn Oldfield Unit (EOU) is recruiting a Development Co-ordinator (Full time)

EOU is looking for someone with proven experience of project management, events management, bid writing, providing frontline services to vulnerable individuals, volunteer management, and the ability to build relationships at all levels. Closing date 15th January.
Apply online at Charity Jobs

Office Space to let at Clean Break in Kentish Town

Clean Break is inviting you take up residence in our North London studios to be part of our vibrant community of artists and facilitators working across theatre and criminal justice. We have a number of office spaces available for short term lease, as well as hot-desking space, meeting rooms, therapy rooms and studios for hire. We also offer women-only work spaces. Our building is in a prime location, situated just a short walk from Kentish Town station, Kentish Town West and Camden.  We will provide broadband and phone lines, and can offer some office furniture and desktop PCs at your request, as well as regular discounted rates on rehearsal and meeting spaces. For more information or prices contact Rachel at studios@cleanbreak.org.uk or call 020 7482 8600.

DfE Consultation on Sex and Relationship Guidance

The Department for Education is considering how to update the existing Sex and Relationship guidance which, was last updated in 2000, and is therefore now out of date. The updated guidance will support schools in delivering the new subjects of Relationships Education at primary and Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) at secondary, as well as, potentially, Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education (PSHE).
The link below would be of interest to parents or appropriate parent groups who would be interested in contributing on the statutory Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) guidance for primary and secondary schools. The consultation closes on the 12th of February.
To view click on the following link:
https://consult.education.gov.uk/life-skills/pshe-rse-call-for-evidence/

Desk Space to Rent

Bloom.space office is in Bloomsbury adjacent to University College London on Gower Street and provides a productive and calm environment in which to run your organisation.
The Office has 30 fixed desks with additional hot desks, lockers, breakout space, a meeting room, teleconferencing equipment, presentation equipment, bike storage and an on-site gym with saunas.
We offer workspace with a range of benefits including:
Full Time Fixed Desks
Hot Desks
Lockers for secure storage
Registered business address
Free tea & coffee
200Mbps fibre option broadband with fast WiFi
Free colour printing & copying
Function rooms and meeting rooms available
Prices are £350pcm for each desk, £150pcm for hot desks (or a combination of these) with no VAT to add.
See www.bloom.space or contact jack@bloom.space call 07711502041 for more information.

Cosy office to let in friendly Kilburn community centre.

Just £60 per week including fitted desks, internet access, two white/notice boards, and generous wall storage. Great for 2 people, and okay for 3. Near various tubes, rail links and buses. Interested? Please contact: reception@abbeycc-kilburn.org.uk . Abbey Community Centre, NW6 4DJ.

Our mailing address is:
29 – 31 Hampstead Road, London, NW1 3JA

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The Information Commissioner’s Office has published a set of frequently asked questions about the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) for charities

GDPR is a set of new data protection rules which come into force on 25 May. The ICO published its main guidance, which is aimed at all organisations, in November.
The ICO has now published 12 frequently asked questions for charities, which draws on wider guidance to GDPR and directs users to other resources, such as the ICO’s self-assessment tool and its dedicated advice line for small organisations. More on this story at Civil Society.
VAC will be running a GDPR workshop for groups in Camden- details coming soon.

Camden CCG’s public consultation on mental health acute day units closes on Wednesday 10th January.

We are looking for your views on how to best organise acute mental health day care services in Camden, to make cost savings while continuing to provide good patient care. Take part in the consultation by responding to the survey online at https://feedback.camdenccg.nhs.uk/community-ownership/adu

Family Support Volunteer

Are you a parent, grandparent or have parenting experience?
Can you give 3 – 4 hours weekly to visit a family with young children who may be going through a difficult time?
Enhance your skills with our training, supervision and fulfilling volunteer role
Next Preparation Course Starting 17th January to 14th March. Every Wednesday 9.45 am to 2.45 pm
Certificates awarded & expenses paid
For information pack ring 020 7424 1603. email: info@homestartcamden.org or go to the website: www.homestartcamden.org.uk

Thyroid Trust

Next public meeting on 20 January at Crown Court Church, Russell Street, Covent Garden WC2. Speaker, Jo Clayton,  will give a talk about her experiences of mental health disturbances caused by her thyroid condition and her return to wellness. The meeting will include a guided meditation and discussion of self care techniques we can all use to calm the mind at times of stress. www.thyroidtrust.org

CCG Announcement Concerning Adult Community Health Commissioning

‘The management of Camden adults’ community health service commissioning is transferring back from Camden Council to Camden Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG). The teams supporting Continuing Health Care and Delayed Transfer of Care moved to the CCG already, and the physical disability and Adults community health services commissioning teams will transfer in January 2018.
Our joint priority continues to be ensuring Camden health and care services are managed and delivered in a coordinated way for the benefit of residents, and we will continue to collaborate closely to ensure this. Integrated commissioning arrangements for mental health, learning disabilities and children’s services will not change. The two organisations remain fully committed to delivering the Camden Local Care Strategy, a shared vision for local service transformation.
The Council and CCG will ensure a seamless management handover, and people using local adults’ community health services will not experience any changes. Further detail on the transition of management responsibilities, and how Camden CCG would like to work with organisations, will follow.’

Camden 2025

One of the ways you can get involved is to come along to one of the local events in January held across the borough where you can share your ideas for what Camden should be like in 2025.  Meet local councillors and staff from the council, and find out what other local residents and community groups are saying. Each event will start with some short talks, but feel free to drop in at any time.
If you would like further details about the events or if you require access needs to attend one of the events please contact Camden2025@camden.gov.uk.

3 conversations – Camden Adult Social Care

In line with its “Supporting people: connecting communities” strategic plan, Camden Adult Social Care is experimenting with a new way of working. This is called “three conversations” and is about building relationships with people and working with their strengths and assets.
To do this we have created innovation sites where practitioners are working differently to the rest of adult services.  In those innovation sites we are aiming to increase the time our practitioners have in Camden’s local communities, finding out about local resources and working with people around what they would like to happen in their lives. This involves reducing the amount of administration that our practitioners currently have to do to free them up to spend more time with residents.
Currently Adult Social Care has an innovation site in its Regents Park and St Pancras and Somerstown ward areas. A new team will be working in this area for 13 weeks starting on 4th December 2017. There will then be an evaluation of the work carried out by the innovation site.  Our aim is that by this time next year all of Camden adult social care will be working in this way, with more innovation sites being created throughout the year.

Public procurement professionals must step up and speak up in 2018

“2018 will be another challenging year for the public sector. Austerity, cuts to funding, staffing and services will continue unless there is either a change of government in Westminster or the current government very surprisingly undergoes a Damascene conversion. Demand for services, especially social care, will continue to grow.  There will be ridiculous calls for the public sector “to do more for less” even though most services are well beyond stretching point.” An important article from John Tizard on the Government Opportunities website.

Charities urge action on £2bn dormant assets funds

Charities have urged the government to take action on the up to £2bn of funding from dormant assets identified last year. So far the government has only announced plans to distribute £330m from dormant accounts to good causes over the next four years.
See more at Civil Society
In addition the Guardian reports that the government is planning to take 30 or 40 years to pay back the £425M taken from the lottery good causes fund to pay for the Olympics.

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

Camden Festival Fund – Announcement Soon

The Third Round of Rosa’s Woman to Woman Fund is Open

With grants of up to £25,000, local grassroots women’s organisations across the UK will be supported using funds from the ‘Tampon Tax.’ In celebration of the centenary of the women’s vote, this round of the Woman to Woman fund will have a renewed focus on leadership and representation and we are particularly interested in funding work that increases women’s representation, skills building and civic engagement.
Grants are available for groups with an income of under £100,000 per year, to support a wide range of charitable work that benefits women: from building confidence and leadership skills, tackling harassment and violence, to training in financial literacy and increasing engagement in decision-making – and much more besides.
As well as grants, Rosa will provide additional support that women’s groups tell us they need, including mentoring, training and networking opportunities. Find out more at the Rosa website.

The Community Shares Booster programme reopens today

£3 million funding is available for local people wanting to put business into community hands.
If you’re a local group needing an extra boost to set up or grow a community business, you can access up to £10,000 to help launch your community share offer and up to £100,000 match funding when the share offer goes live. Find out more at locality.org.uk

Camden Giving

Camden Giving have published the timetable for the various grants programmes they will be offering over the coming 12 months. There are 6 programmes in total. You can view the full timetable here.

Healthy Minds Programme with Mind in Camden

There is a full programme of activities taking place at the Living Centre as part of the Healthy Minds programme. Full details on the VAC training calendar.

Voluntary Action Camden working in partnership with Mary Ward Centre.

Business Start Up for Social Enterprise, Micro Enterprise, Sole Trader.
11^th January – 08 February. 5 meetings.
Not your standard business start-up course. Straddle the social and business divide by using your own life experience in paid or voluntary work to set up a business enterprise with a social focus. This course covers the practical steps needed to set up as a sole trader and/or a micro enterprise and/or a social enterprise.
Thursdays. 17.30-20.30. £65. Concessions £23. Bursaries also available, on application,  to meet part or all of the costs of the course and the course is free for anyone on JSA/ESA/Universal Credit or who is unemployed and on a means tested benefit and intending to use the course to find work.
For further information and to apply please contact Rahul Miah. rahul.miah@marywardcentre.ac.uk 020 7269 6042

Coaching and Mentoring Introduction.
31^st January – 14^th February. 3 meetings.
This short course will give you an understanding of the difference between coaching and mentoring then illustrate the use of coaching and mentoring models and how to put theory into practice. Progression from this course is to the Award in Mentoring Skills course being held in May and June 2018.
Wednesday. 18.00 -20.30. £33. Concessions £11. Bursaries also available, on application, to meet part or all of the costs of the course and the course is free for anyone on JSA/ESA/Universal Credit or who is unemployed and on a means tested benefit and intending to use the course to find work.
For further information and to apply please contact Rahul Miah. rahul.miah@marywardcentre.ac.uk 020 7269 6042

Project Management.
Introductory Certificate. The APM Fundamentals Qualification. (www.apm.org.uk)
15^th February – 29 March. 7 meetings.
This course is for people who want skills in project management that could be applied in business or other environments. It is for those wishing to gain a broad understanding of the principles of the profession. Final assessment is by a short multiple-choice online exam. The course syllabus details are available on the Association for Project Management website – www.apm.org.uk.
Thursdays 18.00 – 20.30.  £425. Concessions £173. Bursaries also available, subject to application, to part or all of the costs of the course.
For further information and to apply please contact Rahul Miah. rahul.miah@marywardcentre.ac.uk 020 7269 6042

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

The Recovery College is open for enrolment for Spring Term 2018

There are free courses running January to March for everyone 18+ in Camden and Islington including several new courses running next term, including:
· Anger management
· LGBT and mental health
· Eating for wellbeing
· Singing for health
· Understanding BME cultures and mental health
You can find our new course guide and calendar attached and online at our webpage: www.candi.nhs.uk/recoverycollege    Hard copies are available at the College.

Black Women, Womanist learning and Higher Education: the Politics of Representation and Community Activism

13th February 2018 free
This conference led by Dr Jan Etienne through Birkbeck’s Institute for Social Research will examine the role of the black woman in promoting learning development and community activism. It brings together the work of researchers, academics and activists in the fields of gender, ‘race’, education and community development to explore womanism and the influence of education for building stronger, local communities.
For more details and to sign up, follow the link below:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/black-women-womanist-learning-and-higher-education-the-politics-of-representation-and-community-tickets-40151089991

West Euston Partnership seeks Volunteer Co-Ordinator

WEP are currently recruiting for the role of volunteer co-ordinator.
You will be the first point of contact for managing the volunteers working on our reception desk.  We have 8-12 receptionists at any one time, all of whom need ongoing support.  This will be a large part of your role alongside being responsible for interviewing and recruiting new receptionists as needed.  As well, you will be showing new receptionists the ropes and making sure they have a full induction.
We ask for a commitment of 2 days a week for 6 months, although we do understand you may be seeking paid employment and cannot make a guaranteed undertaking for that length of time.
Get in touch with Diana Young, 020 7388 7932, diana@westeuston.org
or pop into our One Stop Shop to find out more.
Check out our other volunteer opportunities on the WEP website

Lauderdale House is seeking a Marketing & Communications Manager

Following a major £2.3m refurbishment a year ago we are looking for a dynamic individual to help move the organisation to a new level and expand our reach and profile, increasing audience for arts and education, establish a new profile for heritage, support our individual giving programme and increase our hospitality hires.
Email  sstocker@lauderdale.org.uk  for the full job description or look at http://www.lauderdalehouse.org.uk/page.asp?ID=2678&PID=51
Please send a current CV and tailored covering letter explaining how your skills and experience match the requirements for this to sstocker@lauderdale.org.uk

The Thyroid Trust seeks Treasurer

The Thyroid Trust is in the process of registering as a new charity to benefit people affected by thyroid disease, with funding already secured to cover operational costs and one member of staff.
We run regular support and information events in Central London, with expert speakers. Full details of the vacancy and how to apply can be found on the Honorary Treasurers forum.

Evelyn Oldfield Unit (EOU) is recruiting a Development Co-ordinator (Full time)

EOU is looking for someone with proven experience of project management, events management, bid writing, providing frontline services to vulnerable individuals, volunteer management, and the ability to build relationships at all levels.
Apply online at Charity Jobs

Nafsiyat is seeking an Administration Assistant to cover the administration duties of the centre during Monday and Thursday evenings.

The successful candidate will also help manage our online presence and assist with fundraising.
Experience working in administration and strong computer, literacy and numeracy skills are required.
Email adam@nafsiyat.org.uk for the full job description.
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 to recruitment@nafsiyat.org.uk by 5pm on Wednesday January 3rd 2018.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview on Friday January 12th.

Office Space to let at Clean Break in Kentish Town

Clean Break is inviting you take up residence in our North London studios to be part of our vibrant community of artists and facilitators working across theatre and criminal justice. We have a number of office spaces available for short term lease, as well as hot-desking space, meeting rooms, therapy rooms and studios for hire. We also offer women-only work spaces. Our building is in a prime location, situated just a short walk from Kentish Town station, Kentish Town West and Camden.  We will provide broadband and phone lines, and can offer some office furniture and desktop PCs at your request, as well as regular discounted rates on rehearsal and meeting spaces. For more information or prices contact Rachel at studios@cleanbreak.org.uk or call 020 7482 8600.

Our mailing address is:
29 – 31 Hampstead Road, London, NW1 3JA

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Season’s Greetings from All at VAC

This is the last e-bulletin of 2017.  The next will be on Friday 5th January.  Our offices will be closed between Christmas and New Year and reopen on Tuesday 2nd January 2018

CCG Announcement Concerning Adult Community Health Commissioning

‘The management of Camden adults’ community health service commissioning is transferring back from Camden Council to Camden Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG). The teams supporting Continuing Health Care and Delayed Transfer of Care moved to the CCG already, and the physical disability and Adults community health services commissioning teams will transfer in January 2018.
Our joint priority continues to be ensuring Camden health and care services are managed and delivered in a coordinated way for the benefit of residents, and we will continue to collaborate closely to ensure this. Integrated commissioning arrangements for mental health, learning disabilities and children’s services will not change. The two organisations remain fully committed to delivering the Camden Local Care Strategy, a shared vision for local service transformation.
The Council and CCG will ensure a seamless management handover, and people using local adults’ community health services will not experience any changes. Further detail on the transition of management responsibilities, and how Camden CCG would like to work with organisations, will follow.’

Camden Community Radio

Christmas Special
In our last session before Christmas we bring you festive suggestions from family run pop-up shops near King’s Cross, to new theatre and an evening of stories by local writers at the Holborn Library. Plus there’s a special report from Violet on freezing cold swimmers in Hampstead pond at Christmas and a repeat of one of our all time favourite Christmas recordings – Rob Ingliss’s reading of A Christmas Carol, done for CCRadio in 2015. Listen here.
Healthwatch Camden Reports on local Care Homes
Anna Wright tells how Healthwatch Camden was about to use its powers to visit and check on the quality of local care homes when it heard that ‘Independent Age’ was keen to develop indicators to help ordinary people to assess the quality of care homes they might think of using. The resulting collaboration was so successful that Independent Age is recommending that all MPs get their local Healthwatch to inspect and report on their local care homes using the eight quality indicators that they have developed. Listen here.

New Community Connector Service for Camden

Ageing Better in Camden are pleased to announce that Age UK Camden have won the contract to delivery Ageing Better in Camden’s Community Connector service. The service will connect socially isolated people to activities in their communities so reducing their isolation and loneliness. The contract starts in January 2018 and the team will work with 440 people in the first 2 years.

Somers Town History Club Christmas Party

At the beautiful St Pancras Old Church, 20th December 7pm – 10pm
Somers Town history Club cordially invites you to our Christmas Party.
Dance performance by Swing Patrol & taster lesson! Live Music and a retro DJ set
Somers Town Blues Band with Steve Denholm Rock n roll/ blues & more. Wear your best retro outfit – prizes for the best, & raffle!
Mulled wine and mince pies. Carols and singalong with Mimi Romily.
Warden Rachael will be on hand to explain the history of the church.
Bring your stories to our memory tree.
All ages welcome! Local members free but donations welcome to support us.
RSVP – we recommend you book your ticket here

Health and Wellbeing in West Euston

The last 2017 Saturday Ability Bikes session will be this coming weekend, 16th December, restarting on 6th January 2018.
If you are a regular or would like to cycle regularly, please contact Diana –  diana@westeuston.org so that we can book you in for January – March 2018 without you needing to call for each booking.
Look out for the new Silver Cycling programme coming up in 2018, to encourage older people to cycle in the beautiful surroundings of Regent’s Park.

Camden 2025

One of the ways you can get involved is to come along to one of the local events in January held across the borough where you can share your ideas for what Camden should be like in 2025.  Meet local councillors and staff from the council, and find out what other local residents and community groups are saying. Each event will start with some short talks, but feel free to drop in at any time.
If you would like further details about the events or if you require access needs to attend one of the events please contact Camden2025@camden.gov.uk.

Crossroads Women’s Centre Kids Party

Saturday 16th December 2-4pm
With Captain Fantastic at 3pm and lucky dip, face painting, games and refreshments. Free
25 Wolsey Mews, NW5. Tel: 7482 2496 email: contact@crossroadswomen.net

Annual Returns

You should have received you Annual Return reminders from the Charity Commission and Companies House.  For most small organisations the deadline for Companies House is 31st December and the deadline for the Charity Commission is 31st January (assuming a 31st March end of year). CIOs need only submit a return to the Charity Commission.  More at Companies House and the Charity Commission

Local Reporters Project Funded by the BBC

The BBC has today announced the winners of the contracts to employ up to 150 local reporters to cover councils and public meetings across the UK. Camden’s reporter will be based at Hackney Citizen. Full details at the Hold the Front Page website.

Public Servant’s Eye Witness Accounts

The Guardian have been running a series of accounts by public and voluntary sector workers called Public Servant.  Not easy reading but an important record of vital front line work taking place across the country.

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

The Third Round of Rosa’s Woman to Woman Fund is Open

With grants of up to £25,000, local grassroots women’s organisations across the UK will be supported using funds from the ‘Tampon Tax.’ In celebration of the centenary of the women’s vote, this round of the Woman to Woman fund will have a renewed focus on leadership and representation and we are particularly interested in funding work that increases women’s representation, skills building and civic engagement.
Grants are available for groups with an income of under £100,000 per year, to support a wide range of charitable work that benefits women: from building confidence and leadership skills, tackling harassment and violence, to training in financial literacy and increasing engagement in decision-making – and much more besides.
Rosa is also interested in increasing the impact and sustainability of women’s groups. Therefore, grants can pay for core costs such as financial management, business planning, staff salaries, office rent, leadership development and staff training; as well as project costs such as drop-in support services, mobilising volunteers and outreach. We especially want to support groups that work with disadvantaged communities or in disadvantaged areas.
As well as grants, Rosa will provide additional support that women’s groups tell us they need, including mentoring, training and networking opportunities. Find out more at the Rosa website.

The Community Shares Booster programme reopens today

£3 million funding is available for local people wanting to put business into community hands.
If you’re a local group needing an extra boost to set up or grow a community business, you can access up to £10,000 to help launch your community share offer and up to £100,000 match funding when the share offer goes live. Find out more at locality.org.uk

Ageing Better in Camden Current Funding Opportunities

Community Activities Programme
Ageing Better in Camden are pleased to announce a Community Activities Programme which will award 2 year funding contracts for organisations working to reduce social isolation and loneliness for those aged over 60 through the delivery of supportive accessible activities. Up to 5 contracts will be awarded and each will be worth £20,000 over 2 years. The deadline is 18th December 2017.
Click here for further information and documents

Camden Giving

Camden Giving have published the timetable for the various grants programmes they will be offering over the coming 12 months. There are 6 programmes in total. You can view the full timetable here.

Healthy Minds Programme with Mind in Camden

There is a full programme of activities taking place at the Living Centre as part of the Healthy Minds programme. Full details on the VAC training calendar.

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

 Fundraising gig at Centre 404

Wednesday 20th December. There will be a line up of three fantastic acts: Singer songwriter, Lydia Richards, our Centre 404 resident band The 404 Stormers and headlining we have the world’s number one Johnny Cash tribute band, Cash!
Tickets are only £5 if you book in advance, and £7 on the door so make sure to get in touch with either myself or Bryn to buy your tickets!
There will be a fully licenced bar and music taking place from 7pm-10pm.
All the money raised will be going towards our music group, equipment and the production of their new album.
For more information please contact either myself fbevans@centre404.org.uk or Bryn on Brynt@centre404.org.uk.

The Recovery College is open for enrolment for Spring Term 2018

There are free courses running January to March for everyone 18+ in Camden and Islington including several new courses running next term, including:
· Anger management
· LGBT and mental health
· Eating for wellbeing
· Singing for health
· Understanding BME cultures and mental health
You can find our new course guide and calendar attached and online at our webpage: www.candi.nhs.uk/recoverycollege    Hard copies are available at the College.

Headway North London Christmas Party

Wednesday 20 December, 7 – 9pm at Crossfield Centre, 8 Fairhazel Gardens, NW6 3SG
We really hope as many of you as possible can make it and as always the event is open to friends and family too.
There is a small of just £6 per person to help us cover the costs of this event.

Black Women, Womanist learning and Higher Education: the Politics of Representation and Community Activism

13th February 2018 free
This conference led by Dr Jan Etienne through Birkbeck’s Institute for Social Research will examine the role of the black woman in promoting learning development and community activism. It brings together the work of researchers, academics and activists in the fields of gender, ‘race’, education and community development to explore womanism and the influence of education for building stronger, local communities.
For more details and to sign up, follow the link below:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/black-women-womanist-learning-and-higher-education-the-politics-of-representation-and-community-tickets-40151089991

Wild Bunch Club ‘A club night run by people with learning difficulties for everyone’

Wednesday 20th December will be anything but a silent night as Wild Bunch Club returns to its spiritual home, Electrowerkz. Doors open at 7pm!
For further info contact berni.simons@elfrida.com  or ring the Elfrida Society on 020 7359 7443.

Community Activists Network

Events from NatCan of interest to community activists in Camden. Full details on the NatCan website.

West Euston Partnership seeks Volunteer Co-Ordinator

Do you like to help in your free time?
Do you have good communication skills over the phone and in person?
Are you able to work in a diverse environment?
Are you organised?
Do you have a positive and “can do” attitude?
Some basic IT skills?
If you do, or you don’t, we are currently recruiting for the role of volunteer co-ordinator.
You will be the first point of contact for managing the volunteers working on our reception desk.  We have 8-12 receptionists at any one time, all of whom need ongoing support.  This will be a large part of your role alongside being responsible for interviewing and recruiting new receptionists as needed.  As well, you will be showing new receptionists the ropes and making sure they have a full induction.
We ask for a commitment of 2 days a week for 6 months, although we do understand you may be seeking paid employment and cannot make a guaranteed undertaking for that length of time.
Get in touch with Diana Young, 020 7388 7932, diana@westeuston.org
or pop into our One Stop Shop to find out more.
If not, check out our other volunteer opportunities on the WEP website.

Nafsiyat is seeking an Administration Assistant to cover the administration duties of the centre during Monday and Thursday evenings.

The successful candidate will also help manage our online presence and assist with fundraising.
Experience working in administration and strong computer, literacy and numeracy skills are required.
Email adam@nafsiyat.org.uk for the full job description.
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 to recruitment@nafsiyat.org.uk by 5pm on Wednesday January 3rd 2018.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview on Friday January 12th.

Hopscotch Asian Women’s Centre is recruiting for Homecare Workers.

Homecare Worker
Flexible Hours £9.75 – £10.21 per hour
Closing date: on going
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact, Ruksana Begum, HR Administrator.
Tel: 020 7388 8198 E-mail: recruitment.homecare@hopscotchawc.org.uk
Web: www.hopscotchawc.org.uk  Please do not send CVs as they will not be considered.

Age UK Camden seeks Outreach Worker (18 hours per week)

Sc5 £24,134 to £26,131 pro rata for an 18 hour week
Ageing Better Camden is looking for an Outreach Worker to contribute to a new Outreach Service trialling innovative approaches to reaching and engaging with older people across Camden.
The Outreach Worker will proactively search for isolated people out in their communities by knocking on doors, visiting pubs, launderettes and community centres. They will help older people to make social connections and access local activities, working alongside volunteers to make this happen. They will have excellent communication skills, a genuine interest in people and a commitment to reduce social isolation for older people.
AUC offers a contributory pension, and a season ticket or bicycle loan facility.  The post is based at Tavis House, Tavistock Square with easy access via Euston and Kings Cross main lines or Russell Square tube.
For more details, all documents can be downloaded from the website www.ageukcamden.org.uk or email jobs@ageukcamden.org.uk.
Closing date  – Friday 5th January 2018 – 9 am Interviews –  Friday 12th January 2018

North Camden Zone Seeks New Steering Group Chair

We are looking for a Chair of the North Camden Zone Steering Group who is passionate about improving the life outcomes for children and young people living in Camden. You may be a community leader or senior professional with an in depth knowledge and /or experience of the issues that affect children and young people. You are interested in a collaborative approach involving the community and professionals, and implementing place based systems change.
If you would like to find out more please follow this link. The closing date is 5th January 2018, so you have plenty of time to get in an application over the Christmas break.

The Winch seeks Facilities and Operations Manager

£25,000-30,000 pro rata Full-time or part-time, (24-40 hours per week) Permanent
Location: 21 Winchester Road, London, NW3 3NR and the local area
The Winch has been at the heart of the community in Swiss Cottage since 1973. We are looking for a dedicated, enthusiastic and experienced person who can manage our facilities and operations. Whether part-time or full-time, we want someone who loves solving practical problems, as well as constantly improving the way things work for our staff, children and young people.
Go to http://thewinch.org/work-for-us/ for more information  – deadline 5th January 2018.

Volunteering Opportunities in St James’s Gardens

Working with the Museum of London Archaeology, MOLA Headland Infrastructure (MHI), who are engaged in a very interesting excavation project in St James’s Gardens in Euston, and we are putting together a volunteer programme  for people who would like to get involved in recording and digitising Euston’s rich heritage.
1 Burial record digitisation programme
Based in the City of Westminster Archives, this project involves taking a trial sample from the burial records covering St James’s Gardens.
2 Euston History Engine
The Euston History Engine Project is a wide-ranging, multi-disciplinary survey based around the history and archaeology of the Euston area. Using written descriptions, audio and visual recordings and digital recording techniques including photogrammetry and a high frequency scanning laser, the volunteers on this project will:
~ create a unique record of the sights and sounds of Euston;
~ investigate how the area has changed and what factors have influenced that development;
~ and develop a multi-media virtual tour of the historic hot spots of Euston.
Contact: Aigul Kalioldina, Community Relations Officer email: Aigul.Kalioldina@csjv.co.uk

Community Connectors Project Manager

Age UK Camden has been funded to run the Community Connectors project by Ageing Better in Camden (ABC) for 2 years from January 2018.
SO2 scp 32-34 £31,958 to £33,626 pa for a 35 hour week plus 6% contributory pension
Closing date: 4th January 2018
Interview date: 15th January 2018
Eligible for job share
ABC is itself a multi-agency programme with older people as its focus, aimed at reducing social isolation and collecting better evidence of what works. ABC’s other commissioned services include local community development projects, men’s action, inter-generational activity, inter-generational work, a service focussed on Bangladeshi elders, LGBT Connects.
In Age UK Camden Community Connectors sits alongside other services such as care navigation, befriending, advice and dementia wellbeing.
About the role
~ Set up and implement the Community Connectors Project
~ Proactively develop creative ways to positively engage with older people focusing on the wellbeing benefits of the services on offer.
~ Ensure the effective and efficient use of volunteers in a range of roles.
See Job Description and Person Specification for full details of requirements)
Age UK Camden has been funded to run the Community Connectors project by Ageing Better in Camden (ABC) for 2 years from January 2018.
To apply, please download the documents on the work for us page. Complete the application form and send it to jobs@ageukcamden.org.uk or to our office address, marked for the attention of Angela Ward. If you have any questions please email or phone us on 020 7239 0400.  No CVs, no agencies please.

Camden Clinical Commissioning Group consultation on mental health acute day units
We would like your views on how to best organise acute mental health day care services in Camden, to make cost savings while continuing to provide good patient care.
The NHS and local Government are facing increasing financial pressures nationally, with a gap in funding for both health and social care. In Camden, the money we receive from the government is reducing, while demand for local services is increasing. This means we need make sure every pound we spend has the maximum benefit for the health of, and the quality of care for, Camden patients. It has been essential to review our care provision, to check what is working well, but also to see if there are new ways of delivering high quality, cost-effective care within very tight budgets.
As a result, we have identified our local Mental Health Acute Day Units as an area where cost savings are possible, whilst still providing Camden residents with appropriate, timely and quality care. The reason these services have been identified is because they are being underused.
You can also participate by taking part in our survey on Citizens Space open to 10 January 2018 which can be done via our website https://feedback.camdenccg.nhs.uk/community-ownership/adu

Our mailing address is:
29 – 31 Hampstead Road, London, NW1 3JA

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Spotting Modern Slavery

Volunteering Opportunities in St James’s Gardens

Working with the Museum of London Archaeology, MOLA Headland Infrastructure (MHI), who are engaged in a very interesting excavation project in St James’s Gardens in Euston, and we are putting together a volunteer programme  for people who would like to get involved in recording and digitising Euston’s rich heritage.
1 Burial record digitisation programme
Based in the City of Westminster Archives, this project involves taking a trial sample from the burial records covering St James’s Gardens.
2 Euston History Engine
The Euston History Engine Project is a wide-ranging, multi-disciplinary survey based around the history and archaeology of the Euston area. Using written descriptions, audio and visual recordings and digital recording techniques including photogrammetry and a high frequency scanning laser, the volunteers on this project will:
~ create a unique record of the sights and sounds of Euston;
~ investigate how the area has changed and what factors have influenced that development;
~ and develop a multi-media virtual tour of the historic hot spots of Euston.
Contact: Aigul Kalioldina, Community Relations Officer email: Aigul.Kalioldina@csjv.co.uk

Are you affected by the HS2 route?

The Guardian would like to hear from you if you, your community or your business is affected by the planned route of HS2. Click here to find out more.

Wild Bunch Club ‘A club night run by people with learning difficulties for everyone’

Wednesday 20th December will be anything but a silent night as Wild Bunch Club returns to its spiritual home, Electrowerkz. Doors open at 7pm!
For further info contact berni.simons@elfrida.com  or ring the Elfrida Society on 020 7359 7443.

Museum of Happiness

The Museum of Happiness in Camden Town is a nonprofit organisation that provides an experiential adventure, where people of all ages and backgrounds can learn more about the essence of happiness and well-being. By using a series of interactive exhibitions, workshops and events, we offer science-based techniques that people can implement into their everyday lives. The museum offers courses and room hire.
Email: smile@museumofhappiness.org  Web: http://www.museumofhappiness.org/

Camden Patient and Public Engagement Group (CPPEG) open meeting

Monday 11 December 2017 Time: 2pm – 4pm
Conference room, St Pancras Hospital, 4 St Pancras Way NW1 0PE
Chair: Hilary Lance, Adelaide General Practice PPG member
Camden CCG update:
~ NHS England Assurance Rating: New patient & community engagement rating
Presenters: Kathy Elliott, Vice Chair and Lay Governing Body Member responsible for patient engagement
~ Long Term Conditions Strategy update: what patients have told us to date:
Presenter: Martin Emery, Deputy Head of Patient Engagement
~ Acute Day Units Mental Health Consultation update:
Presenter: Nick McClelland, Senior Communications and Engagement Manager
Do you subscribe to our monthly newsletter? Our PPG newsletter shares all our latest news and opportunities for patients and the public to be involved in our work. Please email engagement@camdenccg.nhs.uk to subscribe.

Camden 20205 Focus Group for d/Deaf and Hard of Hearing People

We want to make Camden a better place for everyone to live in by 2025 Now is your chance to tell us to how we all need do things in the future.
Come and share your thoughts at a focus group for 12 d/Deaf and hard of hearing Camden residents
13 December 2017, 2.30-5pm in Committee Room 3A Camden Town Hall, Judd Street WC1H 9DB
If you want to be one of the 12 to attend, please let Michael Bond by email: Michael.Bond@Camden.gov.uk

Community Led Housing Celebrates £300M Housing Fund

The annual Community-Led Housing Conference, hosted by the National Community Land Trust Network and UK Cohousing the community housing movement was given a huge boost with the announcement of the £300M Community Housing Fund.  Read more here.

Charities and councils being at loggerheads won’t help local people

Good relationships between voluntary bodies and local government should be at the heart of building great communities. Both sides need to work harder
“Across the country, relationships between the councils and charities seem strained or even, in places, broken beyond repair. Councils and charities are stuck in an adversarial relationship
Some commentators attribute this depressing picture to the impact of austerity, as well as the spread of neoliberal politics and a fixation with competitive tendering.” Read more of John Tizard’s article in the Guardian.

Even Awareness Raising Too Much for Government

The government announced this week that a new round of funding was available for women’s charities, with a total £15m available through grants of at least £1m each.
The guidance said charities must demonstrate how they align with and support the delivery of the violence against women and girls strategy, including by promoting public awareness of the VAWG strategy.
But somehow must do that without campaigning or awareness-raising work due to the government’s continued use of a ‘gagging’ clause in contracts.  Read more in Civil Society and Third Sector.
NB Tampon Tax Fund application form and guidance for applicants (for the 2018/19 round of funding). However the minimum grant is £1M.

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

The Community Shares Booster programme reopens today

£3 million funding is available for local people wanting to put business into community hands.
If you’re a local group needing an extra boost to set up or grow a community business, you can access up to £10,000 to help launch your community share offer and up to £100,000 match funding when the share offer goes live. Find out more at locality.org.uk

Ageing Better in Camden Current Funding Opportunities

Community Activities Programme
Ageing Better in Camden are pleased to announce a Community Activities Programme which will award 2 year funding contracts for organisations working to reduce social isolation and loneliness for those aged over 60 through the delivery of supportive accessible activities. Up to 5 contracts will be awarded and each will be worth £20,000 over 2 years. The deadline is 18th December 2017.
Age UK Camden’s Action Grants Scheme
Ageing Better in Camden are also pleased to announce that once again they will be supporting Age UK Camden’s Annual Action Grants scheme. These are small grants of up to £200 but with a majority being for £100 and are for organisations with an income of £30,000 or less. The application form is short and simple. The deadline is 9am on 11th December 2017.
Click here for further information and documents

Camden Giving

Camden Giving have published the timetable for the various grants programmes they will be offering over the coming 12 months. There are 6 programmes in total. You can view the full timetable here.

Healthy Minds Programme with Mind in Camden

There is a full programme of activities taking place at the Living Centre as part of the Healthy Minds programme. Full details on the VAC training calendar.

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

 Fundraising gig at Centre 404

There will be a line up of three fantastic acts: Singer songwriter, Lydia Richards, our Centre 404 resident band The 404 Stormers and headlining we have the world’s number one Johnny Cash tribute band, Cash!
Tickets are only £5 if you book in advance, and £7 on the door so make sure to get in touch with either myself or Bryn to buy your tickets!
There will be a fully licenced bar and music taking place from 7pm-10pm.
All the money raised will be going towards our music group, equipment and the production of their new album.
For more information please contact either myself fbevans@centre404.org.uk or Bryn on Brynt@centre404.org.uk.

Bake and Brew

Christmas Baking, 13th December, 2-4pm at Castlehaven Community Centre.
Come along to cook up a festive feast with pro-bakers from University College London! All welcome. No prior baking experience necessary, but Mary Berrys also very welcome!
We’ll be baking some Christmas treats, before taking time to enjoy our handiwork over a cup of tea and a chat.  All welcome.
Contact Rosa Walden or Jo Hynes 07907 597936 for more info.

Headway North London Christmas Party

Wednesday 20 December, 7 – 9pm at Crossfield Centre, 8 Fairhazel Gardens, NW6 3SG
We really hope as many of you as possible can make it and as always the event is open to friends and family too.
There is a small of just £6 per person to help us cover the costs of this event.

Black Women, Womanist learning and Higher Education: the Politics of Representation and Community Activism

13th February 2018 free
This conference led by Dr Jan Etienne through Birkbeck’s Institute for Social Research will examine the role of the black woman in promoting learning development and community activism. It brings together the work of researchers, academics and activists in the fields of gender, ‘race’, education and community development to explore womanism and the influence of education for building stronger, local communities.
For more details and to sign up, follow the link below:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/black-women-womanist-learning-and-higher-education-the-politics-of-representation-and-community-tickets-40151089991

Calthorpe Project Christmas Market

Friday 15th December noon – 8pm
Free mulled wine, carol singing,
258 – 274 Grays Inn Road, WC1

West Euston Partnership seeks Volunteer Co-Ordinator

Do you like to help in your free time?
Do you have good communication skills over the phone and in person?
Are you able to work in a diverse environment?
Are you organised?
Do you have a positive and “can do” attitude?
Some basic IT skills?
If you do, or you don’t, we are currently recruiting for the role of volunteer co-ordinator.
You will be the first point of contact for managing the volunteers working on our reception desk.  We have 8-12 receptionists at any one time, all of whom need ongoing support.  This will be a large part of your role alongside being responsible for interviewing and recruiting new receptionists as needed.  As well, you will be showing new receptionists the ropes and making sure they have a full induction.
We ask for a commitment of 2 days a week for 6 months, although we do understand you may be seeking paid employment and cannot make a guaranteed undertaking for that length of time.
Get in touch with Diana Young, 020 7388 7932, diana@westeuston.org
or pop into our One Stop Shop to find out more.
If not, check out our other volunteer opportunities on the WEP website.

Hopscotch Asian Women’s Centre is recruiting for Homecare Workers.

Homecare Worker
Flexible Hours £9.75 – £10.21 per hour
Closing date: on going
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact, Ruksana Begum, HR Administrator.
Tel: 020 7388 8198 E-mail: recruitment.homecare@hopscotchawc.org.uk
Web: www.hopscotchawc.org.uk  Please do not send CVs as they will not be considered.

Age UK Camden seeks Outreach Worker (18 hours per week)

Sc5 £24,134 to £26,131 pro rata for an 18 hour week
Ageing Better Camden is looking for an Outreach Worker to contribute to a new Outreach Service trialling innovative approaches to reaching and engaging with older people across Camden.
The Outreach Worker will proactively search for isolated people out in their communities by knocking on doors, visiting pubs, launderettes and community centres. They will help older people to make social connections and access local activities, working alongside volunteers to make this happen. They will have excellent communication skills, a genuine interest in people and a commitment to reduce social isolation for older people.
AUC offers a contributory pension, and a season ticket or bicycle loan facility.  The post is based at Tavis House, Tavistock Square with easy access via Euston and Kings Cross main lines or Russell Square tube.
For more details, all documents can be downloaded from our website www.ageukcamden.org.uk or email jobs@ageukcamden.org.uk.
Closing date  – Friday 5th January 2018 – 9 am Interviews –  Friday 12th January 2018

North Camden Zone Seeks New Steering Group Chair

We are looking for a Chair of the North Camden Zone Steering Group who is passionate about improving the life outcomes for children and young people living in Camden. You may be a community leader or senior professional with an in depth knowledge and /or experience of the issues that affect children and young people. You are interested in a collaborative approach involving the community and professionals, and implementing place based systems change.
If you would like to find out more please follow this link. The closing date is 5th January 2018, so you have plenty of time to get in an application over the Christmas break.

The Winch seeks Facilities and Operations Manager

£25,000-30,000 pro rata Full-time or part-time, (24-40 hours per week) Permanent
Location: 21 Winchester Road, London, NW3 3NR and the local area
The Winch has been at the heart of the community in Swiss Cottage since 1973. We are looking for a dedicated, enthusiastic and experienced person who can manage our facilities and operations. Whether part-time or full-time, we want someone who loves solving practical problems, as well as constantly improving the way things work for our staff, children and young people.
Go to http://thewinch.org/work-for-us/ for more information  – deadline 5th January 2018.

Hopscotch Asian Women’s Centre seeks BAMER Specialist Advocate
Hopscotch Asian Women’s Centre is recruiting for a BAMER Specialist Advocate for an innovative specialist project for women experiencing violence and multiple disadvantage.
Please see below for details:
BAMER Specialist Advocate
21 hrs per week – fixed term contract (1 year)
Salary: £28,500 incl. ILW
Closing date: 17th December 2017 at midnight
For an informal discussion about the post, please contact Isabelle Terrisson, Senior Operations Manager. For all other details and an application pack, please contact Ruksana Begum, HR Administrator: Tel: 020 7388 8198 E-mail: info@hopscotchawc.org.uk
Web: www.hopscotchawc.org.uk Please do not send CVs as they will not be considered.
Hopscotch recruitment is carried out in line with the safer recruitment practices.

Camden Clinical Commissioning Group consultation on mental health acute day units
We would like your views on how to best organise acute mental health day care services in Camden, to make cost savings while continuing to provide good patient care.
The NHS and local Government are facing increasing financial pressures nationally, with a gap in funding for both health and social care. In Camden, the money we receive from the government is reducing, while demand for local services is increasing. This means we need make sure every pound we spend has the maximum benefit for the health of, and the quality of care for, Camden patients. It has been essential to review our care provision, to check what is working well, but also to see if there are new ways of delivering high quality, cost-effective care within very tight budgets.
As a result, we have identified our local Mental Health Acute Day Units as an area where cost savings are possible, whilst still providing Camden residents with appropriate, timely and quality care. The reason these services have been identified is because they are being underused.
You can also participate by taking part in our survey on Citizens Space open to 10 January 2018 which can be done via our website https://feedback.camdenccg.nhs.uk/community-ownership/adu

Our mailing address is:
29 – 31 Hampstead Road, London, NW1 3JA

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