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Upcoming Training & Events

Our next VAC Trustees Network event: Fundraising Tips for Trustees.

For anyone who currently has a role as a trustee, or is thinking of applying to become a trustee, we’ll be sharing some invaluable tips and practical information in this workshop.

The event, which will be co-hosted with Volunteer Centre Camden, will consist of three parts: we’ll be starting with some expert guest speakers from All Ways Network, following up with a Q&A facilitated session and then finally an opportunity to network with fellow attendees. To find out more, and book your tickets, visit our website.

Understanding online gaming and gambling harms 27th June, 1pm-2pm
Fundraising Tips for Trustees 12th July, 6pm-7pm.

More details in the Events and Training section

NPC produces report on Youth Mental Health Crisis
NPC have published a new report giving insight on how charities are responding to the rising mental health needs of children and young people, and how a different approach to funding could help with the increased demand for services. The report outlines 6 key areas for funders to focus on to better enable charities to respond to the crisis.

“Radical honesty” essential for inclusivity
Charity leaders have spoken about the need for radical honesty as a building block for anti-racist, inclusive organisations, at a panel on the Third Sector conference this week. Speakers from Reframing Race and Girls Friendly Society offered insights into how the sector can look at changing cultures and processes.

Government urged to improve volunteer movement
The Charity Retail Association (CRA) has published a manifesto with a list of recommendations for the next government to help promote a culture of reuse and waste reduction and make it easier for volunteers to move between charities. The manifesto centres the success and importance of charity shops and how, in order to maintain that, processes for volunteers must be improved.

Every week VAC checks various sources for the latest funding opportunities relevant for Camden groups.

You can visit our website for a round up of the latest opportunities added this week: Search for Funding – Voluntary Action Camden (vac.org.uk).

We’ve included a selection of the latest funds below but check out our new funding portal for many more opportunities.
If you need help sourcing or applying for funds, get in touch with our consultancy service, free for all Camden groups!

Rosa’s Stand With Us Fund – grants are available for not-for-profit women’s and girls’ organisations delivering frontline services in the UK addressing male violence against women and girls.
Energy Saving Trust’s Carbon Emissions Reduction for not-for-profit groups in Great Britain for projects that empower householders to reduce their carbon emissions and engage positively with the transition to net zero and for the development of innovative products and services related to energy.
Islamic Relief UK is offering grants of between £1,000 and £40,000 for voluntary, community, and social enterprise sector organisations across the UK to deliver projects that support marginalised and vulnerable people and their communities.
Co-op Local Community Fund – supporting projects in Co-op members’ communities that help to create Sustainable Future for People and the Planet (the themes for this year).
Ofgem Energy Industry Voluntary Redress Scheme – grants are available to registered charities for projects supporting people in or at risk of fuel poverty across England, Scotland and Wales.

VAC UPCOMING TRAINING

Understanding online gaming and gambling harms 27th June, 1pm – 2pm
Fundraising Tips for Trustees 10th July, 6pm-7pm

Find out more here: https://vac.org.uk/news-and-events/events/

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

OTHER EVENTS

First-ever Camden Schools Art Biennale
This summer, a new Camden Schools Art Biennale hosted by Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts London, with Camden Council and Camden Learning, is coming to Granary Square, King’s Cross. From 11 to 17 July, visitors to the free exhibition will be able explore hundreds of artworks by Camden schoolchildren, with creative work by every school and every key stage of learning – from primary and special schools to secondary schools, through to A-level.

Queer Brown Stories’ Launch Party!
Join for the launch of ‘Queer Brown Stories’! Expect fun activities, food, music, and stalls showcasing community groups and artists. ‘Queer Brown Stories’ is a mural celebrating the diverse experiences of Queer South Asian existence within cities and explores the community’s hopes for the future of Camley Street – and is part of Camden Council’s inclusive development of the neighbourhood.
7th July, Camley Street Underpass Gallery, near 120 Camley Street, N1C 4PG

Invitation: explore the past and present of Kilburn
The One Kilburn Community Fund winners, Electronic Sheep, would like to invite you on a journey through Kilburn’s history – exploring its vibrant past and dynamic present in motion for their film, Kilburn in Motion, on 29th June. This is the first of a series of workshops and events that forms part of the making of the film, Kilburn in Motion. There are 25 spaces available for this event. Find out more and reserve your free space here. Any questions, do not hesitate to get in contact with electronicsheep@gmail.com.

Young Camden Foundation’s Summer Party
YCF are celebrating their 7th birthday with a summer party – an evening filled with fun, laughter, and community spirit at Papier HQ in Camden. Including a raffle, refreshments and bubbly, performances by local talented performers and speeches, plus the opportunity to connect with community members, local businesses, councillors and young people and everyone in between.
10th July, 39 Plender Street, NW1 0DT

Take back Control of the Climate Crisis Narrative
The climate crisis has dozens of causes, all together creating the existential threat the world faces. Weigh them all up in a facilitated game-based workshop, find out what others think from different world views and discuss where it leaves us. Forget about pessimism, take back control of the narrative.
June 24th, Islington Climate Centre, 21 Parkfield Street, N1 0PS

Heath Hands 25th Birthday + Community Fun Day
Heath Hands, the conservation and community charity for Hampstead Heath turns 25 this year and to celebrate, they’ve made a short film about their activities – view it here! You can also join them for the Hampstead Heath Community Fun Day at the Parliament Hill Bandstand from 1-5pm on Sunday 23rd June. Including hula hooping, South Asian dancing, live music, face painting, henna, nature activities, art activities, Bike MOTs and more! More information here.

Castlehaven Urban Gardening Talk
Award-winning gardener Mark Soanes will be delivering a talk all about garden design principles and it’s correlation with the environment on the 29th June from 2 – 4 pm. Booking is essential – please catherine@castlehaven.org.uk.

VCC Volunteer Manager’s Forum
Join Volunteer Centre Camden online on Tuesday 2nd July for networking and peer support in the company of volunteer managers from everywhere. Topics are decided by you on the day and booking is free. VCC’s forums are peer-to-peer learning, in which the group on the day will work through solutions together.

Zen in Mind – Free Community Festival
The Zen Project and Mind in Camden bring to you one of a series of monthly festivals to celebrate mental health and support the local Camden community. Open to all and all activities are free. Free food, massage, mindfulness sessions and more. Climb on board the big yellow American school bus and take part in one of many activities to help create some calm and ease anxiety. Something for everyone. No need to book – just turn up. More information here.
Thursday 27th June, 12pm-4pm, Swiss Cottage, 8 Fairhazel Gardens, NW6 3SG

People’s Museum of Somers Town – various events
‘Rough City’ – Exhibition Opening – 21st-22nd June 5-9pm
BA Interior Architecture final year student work from Middlesex University focusing on the effect of the homogenisation of the built environment through design intervention in the Coal Drops Yard development in Kings Cross.
Retro Vinyl Night – Thursday 27th June, 6pm
People’s Museum retro vinyl club, led by DJ Flytowhitneysmoon. Bring your own vinyls with you, or just come along and hear what others have to share.
All events are taking place at People’s Museum, 52 Phoenix Rd, NW1 1ES

CAWH Healthy Morning Walk
Free of Charge ( Pay for your drinks and snacks). Contact: Beatrice on 0207 794 3729 or by email beatrice@cawh.org.uk. An opportunity to meet at the centre and go for a healthy morning walk together to encourage each other and meet new people. Anyone can join! (over 18). Meet at the West Hampstead Community centre. 25th June from 11am to 12:30pm, West Hampstead Community Centre, 17 Dornfell Street, NW6 1QN.

Kurdish Community meeting
The next Kurdish Community meeting in London is on Sunday 23rd June from 2.00 – 6.00 pm at 24 Haverstock Hill, Chalk Farm, NW3 2BQ. The meetings are run on a monthly basis by Kurdish volunteers in order to help the community get together, celebrate ethnic identity, share knowledge in a sociable, cultural, educational and family friendly setting. All ethnicities are welcome.

Hearing Voices Projects Development Worker
At Mind in Camden, this vacancy in the Hearing Voices Projects team involves supporting and developing innovative support services for people who hear voices, see visions, have other sensory experiences, altered states or unshared beliefs. Mind in Camden are looking for someone with knowledge of peer support and a range of perspectives on mental health. Job description and application details here.
Closing date: Sunday 30th June 2024

Job Opportunity: Assistant Workshop Facilitator
Camden are seeking an enthusiastic Assistant Workshop Facilitator to support Healing Choir, a new weekly vocal gathering in Kilburn’s Tin Tabernacle. The role involves assisting the lead artist, Sharon Gal, with preparation, organization, and participant support. Ideal candidates have experience with diverse groups, are friendly, resourceful, punctual, and knowledgeable about Health & Safety practices. A basic DBS check is required. To apply, send your CV and supporting statement to paprikacollective@gmail.com.

Age UK Camden Day Care Centre Manager
Age UK Camden are looking for a skilled and experienced Day Care Centre Manager for the centre – Great Croft, for older people in Camden – based in Kings Cross. Their centres provide a wide range of activities as well as being specialist Day Care Centres caring for older people with complex needs. The Day Care Centres also provide a hot lunch and a range of special events. The dedicated, specialist team support people with care needs, including those living with mild – moderate dementia and complex needs.
Closing date: Monday 8th July 2024

Age UK Camden Fundraising Manager
Age UK Camden are looking for a dynamic, experienced Fundraising Manager who will manage a portfolio of work that ranges from Fundraising, Income Generation in areas such as the Charity Retail Shop, Marketing and Communications and Community and Corporate Engagement. The role also involves working closely with the CEO and the external bid writer who focuses on funding from Trusts and Grants
Closing date: Monday 15^th July 2024

Two Promoter Roles at People’s Museum Somers Town
Summer jobs – Story Bike: A chance to develop a new social action service from grounds up. Opportunity for an outgoing natural promoter keen to help less mobile people. Paid ‘Service Developer’ contract roles, cyclist and volunteer opportunities. More information about both roles here. Please contact with CV info@aspaceforus.club.

Little Village Baby Bank Manager
Do you have what it takes to lead an amazing team of staff and volunteers to make a big difference to families across London? Little Village are looking for a Baby Bank Manager who can unite and inspire members of the Camden Hub to help them to give more young children across the capital the things they need to thrive.
Deadline: 9th July

Street Storage (Homelessness Charity) Seeks Volunteer
Street Storage is the only UK charity providing free, accessible and safe storage for people experiencing homelessness. They are looking for someone who can play a vital role in the safe storage of people’s most prized possessions and be part of a team who aims to create a warm, welcoming safe space for people who store with them. Duties would consist of getting people’s bags and cases to and from the storage unit when they drop in for belongings as well as greeting people, offering refreshments and generally being on hand for staff and people using Street Storage alike. So a people person with a bit of muscle would be perfect! Please contact caroline.allouf@streetstorage.org.

Volunteering Opportunities at Abbey Community Centre
ACC are looking for volunteer befrienders to help reduce isolation by regularly visiting individuals over 60s in their homes and help provide ad hoc support. If you’re passionate in Children’s Services and family support, you can volunteer in assisting running creative and fun activities for under 5s whilst building relationships with their parents and carers. Other volunteering opportunities available, please contact vol-opps@abbeycc-kilburn.org.uk with any questions.

Youth Safety Multi-Media Competition – enter your project
Camden’s annual Youth Safety Multi-Media Competition aims to raise awareness of the issues affecting the safety of young people in Camden and encourage young people to come together and think about their concerns, aspirations and hopes for the future. The competition is open to children and young people in Camden aged 10 to 18. Entries must be by children and young people in partnership with their school, youth organisation or play centre.

Unlock your mentoring potential with the Winch
Looking for support with your mentoring programme? In partnership with the Mayor of London, The Winch are very excited to offer your organisation a unique opportunity to support your mentoring practice. Working with a team of grassroots professionals, you will gain access to micro grants, training and framework implementation masterclasses among others. Contact daniel@thewinch.org
Call for Proposal: Learning Partner
The Winch is seeking to commission a learning partner for the Good Neighbourhood Project, a three-year initiative that supports residents to lead in imagining and building towards fairer, greener local neighbourhoods. Their aim is to learn in order to embed practices and approaches and demonstrate accountability to the people they engage.

Carol Street Workshop Available to Lease
A property on Carol Street, close to Camden Underground, is available. This property owned by Camden Council and is being reserved for incorporated charities and community groups. A further rent reduction of 50% is available for eligible organisations. An open day will take place on Wednesday 3rd July between 10-1pm. For further details please visit the Council’s website.

Free Courses from We Find Any Learner
New courses are available from We Find Any Learner, with three of the most popular online courses being offered free of charge. To find out more, head to the website, where you can sign up or look through the full list of courses. To sign up, you will need to be at least 19 years old, residing in England and not currently enrolled in an apprenticeship programme.

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

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

Find presentations, recordings and resources from past forums here

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Send your item to social@vac.org.uk by noon on Wednesday for publication in the following Friday’s edition. Submissions should be 50 – 75 words. Please send plain text or a format that can be copied (ie not embedded in an image). Send links to documents rather than attachments. Make sure to include contact details.

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Greenwood Centre, Greenwood Place, London, NW5 1LB

Registered Charity Number 880216. Company Limited by Guarantee registered in England No: 2388150. Registered Office: Belmont Street, London, NW1 8HF

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VAC E-Bulletin 14th June 2024

by Duncan Cordy14 June 202416 July 2024

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

Upcoming Training & Events

Newly announced this week, our next VAC Trustees Network event: Fundraising Tips for Trustees.

For anyone who currently has a role as a trustee, or is thinking of applying to become a trustee, we’ll be sharing some invaluable tips and practical information in this workshop.

Understanding online gaming and gambling harms 27th June, 1pm-2pm
Fundraising Tips for Trustees 12th July, 6pm-7pm.

More details in the Events and Training section

NCVO & ACEVO publish Voluntary Sector Manifesto
A new manifesto has been published by NCVO & ACEVO which proposes 7 key strategies to augment the future relationship between the government and charity sector. The recommendations include bringing charities into policy-making by establishing a civil society charter, and appointing a “philanthropy champion” within government.

Charity Governance Code launches public consultation
Established to support charities and trustees by providing guidance and developing high standards of governance, the Charity Governance Code are inviting charities across the sector to take part in a new survey. The consultation is aimed at learning about the relationships different charities have with the governance code, whether or not they currently use it. The deadline to complete the survey is 11th August.

Door-to-door fundraising received negatively by majority
A survey from the Fundraising Regulator on public attitudes to different fundraising methods, has revealed that 62% of people rated their most recent experience of door-to-door fundraising negatively. The survey also analysed public opinion on public and online fundraising.

Every week VAC checks various sources for the latest funding opportunities relevant for Camden groups.

You can visit our website for a round up of the latest opportunities added this week: Search for Funding – Voluntary Action Camden (vac.org.uk).

North London Community Fund – Projects must either be intervention-based with a behaviour change focus, or aim to reach communities not currently participating in pro-environmental behaviours.
Young Camden Foundation Summer Opportunities Fund for activities that will help keep children and young people engaged, active, and supported, promoting their mental and physical wellbeing.
Lloyds Bank Foundation invites Deaf and Disabled People’s Organisations to apply for unrestricted grants of up to £75,000 over a three year period.
City Bridge Foundation Suicide Prevention funding programme to support strategic projects that achieve systemic change in suicide prevention across London.
Skinners’ Charity Foundation supporting programmes of work where young people receive a vocational qualification as part of their employment progression.

VAC UPCOMING TRAINING

Understanding online gaming and gambling harms 27th June, 1pm – 2pm
Fundraising Tips for Trustees 10th July, 6pm-7pm

Find out more here: https://vac.org.uk/news-and-events/events/

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

OTHER EVENTS

Hopscotch Women’s Centre events for Refugee Week
Hopscotch Women’s Centre are holding two upcoming community arts events for Refugee Week. On 17th – 21st June, in collaboration with the British Library, creative works and stories by refugee women and girls will be showcased at the Last Word community space. Then from 17th June – mid July, additional creative artworks and case studies will be displayed at Old Diorama Arts Centre, where Hopscotch has been working from to deliver English classes and wellbeing sessions for refugee women throughout this year.

Camden New Town Community Festival 2024
Bringing our community together: 20 July, Jazz, poetry & “open mike” in Camden Square Gardens NW1, 21 July, Family Day in Camden Square Gardens NW1.
Festival parade – 6 metre high Climbing Tower – Arts and Crafts – Children’s activities – Dance performances – Dr Bike – Face painting – food & refreshments – Green Corner – Healthy Living tent – local history – live music – • chess challenge – restart & sewing workshops – • Film Tent – stalls and information
To book a stall, volunteer or make a donation please contact the Festival Office on 020 7485 6827 or email festival.mlcc@yahoo.co.uk.

People’s Museum of Somers Town – Various Events
People’s Museum Day of Walks – This Saturday 15th June, 12-4pm
For the London Festival of Architecture choose from 4 walks around landmark estates in Somers Town to celebrate the centenary of St Pancras Housing.
‘Rough City’ – Exhibition Opening 20th June 5-9pm
BA Interior Architecture final year student work from Middlesex University focusing on the effect of the homogenisation of the built environment through design intervention in the Coal Drops Yard development in Kings Cross. The exhibitions will also be open 21st & 22nd June.
Retro Vinyl Night – Thursday 27th June, 6pm
People’s Museum retro vinyl club, led by DJ Flytowhitneysmoon. Bring your own vinyls with you, or just come along and hear what others have to share.
All events are taking place at People’s Museum, 52 Phoenix Rd, NW1 1ES

Queen Square Community Picnic
Holborn Community has partnered up with SGTM Church, Love Camden and The October Gallery to host a community picnic. There will be free snacks/drinks, games and art activities. More info here.
Saturday 6th July – 12.30pm – 3pm, Queen Square, Bloomsbury.

CAWH Healthy Morning Walk
Free of Charge ( Pay for your drinks and snacks). Contact: Beatrice on 0207 794 3729 or by email beatrice@cawh.org.uk. An opportunity to meet at the centre and go for a healthy morning walk together to encourage each other and meet new people. Anyone can join! (over 18).Meet at the West Hampstead Community centre. 25th June from 11am to 12:30pm, West Hampstead Community Centre, 17 Dornfell Street, NW6 1QN.

Camden Council Community Health Event
Camden Council is running a Community Health Event in Talacre Gardens on Saturday 13th July. Help is needed with setting up stalls, directing residents, organising live entertainment, supporting sports activities, collecting feedback, managing queues and note taking. Volunteers are needed from 10am and are expected to stay for a minimum of 2 hours. All volunteers will be provided with free food. In case of bad weather, the event will be rearranged to take place on Saturday 20th July. Please contact
anita.khalil@camden.gov.uk for more information.

Endometriosis Support Session in Camden
Do you suffer from Endometriosis or experience symptoms like painful period, painful bowels, fatigue, pelvic pain, infertility? Endometriosis is an invisible condition affecting 1 in 8 women in the UK, and can have a huge impact on the physical, mental, and socio-economic health of women and girls. Healthwatch Camden invites you to join their support session on the 19th June, 10-11:30am, to hear from health professionals, and also to share your experiences with other women with the condition.
Where: St Pancras and Somers Town Living Centre, 2 Ossulston St, NW1 1DF

Mind in Camden Community Mental Health Recovery Support Worker
Mind in Camden have two roles open for self-motivated, empathic, and dynamic Community Mental Health Recovery Support Workers to join their one-to-one mental health support service. You’ll be primarily responsible for supporting people to identify and meet their self-defined mental health needs and aspirations, to understand the range of options available to them, to support them emotionally, and to connect them with appropriate community resources and services. Find information for the 35 hour a week role here, and the 27.5 hour a week role here.
Closing date: Sunday 16^th June 2024

Adult Early Help Pilot Lead & Worker
Camden is excited to be recruiting for the Adult Early Help Pilot team! They are looking for a team of person-centred professionals and someone to lead and support the team to test and develop an adult early help (AEH) offer for adults in the borough. This is an opportunity to work collaboratively with multiple stakeholders to create a new approach to working with adults in Camden. Pilot lead and worker.
Closing date: Sunday 16^th June 2024

Chief Operating Officer (Deputy CEO) at Coram’s Fields
Coram’s Fields are pleased to be recruiting to the role of Chief Operating Officer. This is a new role within the charity and forms an integral part of the Senior Management Team (SMT), contributing to the strategic direction of the charity and leading some of its core business functions, namely human resources, finance and commercial. Applications should be returned to Lois Turnbull (Office Assistant) and are accepted by e-mail (Recruitment@coramsfields.org.uk) or in hard copy to Lois Turnbull, Coram’s Fields, 93 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1DN.
Closing date: Monday 17^th June 2024

Hearing Voices Projects Development Worker
Also at Mind in Camden, this vacancy in the Hearing Voices Projects team involves supporting and developing innovative support services for people who hear voices, see visions, have other sensory experiences, altered states or unshared beliefs. Mind in Camden are looking for someone with knowledge of peer support and a range of perspectives on mental health. Job description and application details here.
Closing date: Sunday 30th June 2024

Camden Summer University
Young people aged 13 to 19 who live in Camden, go to a Camden state school, attend a Camden youth centre or have a Camden social worker can choose from nearly 70 free courses in arts, media, fashion, sport, cookery, work and life skills with Camden Summer University. The programme runs at venues across the borough from Thursday 25 July to Friday 23 August 2024. Check the website to view courses – bookings open on 17 June.

Understanding Mental Health – Paid Opportunity
This new initiative aims to understand experiences and challenges faced by residents (18 and above) with mental health conditions in Camden. Your insights will shape initiatives and strategies for the community. The project involves:
•   Group meetings with individuals with lived experiences.
•   Discussions will cover various mental health topics.
•   Permission to audio record conversations for accuracy (no identifying information will be used in reporting).
If you would like to join, please contact Priyanka on Priyanka.patil@camden.gov.uk.

Wipers Youth Work and Youth Justice training courses
Wipers Youth CIC is an award-winning social enterprise specialising in working with vulnerable and disadvantaged young people. In partnership with AB Charitable Trust, they are offering 3 exceptional CPD certified youth work & youth justice training courses, absolutely free. These sessions will be in-person at Voluntary Action Islington, 200A Pentonville Road, N1 9JP. Visit Wipers’ website to find out more and book your place.

Somers Town People’s Museum Story Bike Project
Do you know someone who struggles to walk? Would you be interested in guided historical walks around Somers Town? Are you looking for volunteer opportunities? People’s Museum are excited to announce this new initiative: The Story Bike! It is an electric passenger bike to: transport people around Somers Town for free, accompany guided historical walks, and allow businesses or individuals to hire the bike for personal use. Additionally, the People’s Museum is looking for volunteers excited to drive the Story Bike! If you’re interested in volunteering, please fill out this form! For more information, please contact diana@aspaceforus.club.

Random Acts of Connection – Loneliness Awareness Week
Marmalade Trust’s Loneliness Awareness Week celebrates ‘Random Acts of Connection’ this year. It is being held between 10-16th June and the theme encourages everyone to have more of those simple everyday interactions which can reduce feelings of social isolation and loneliness. Good Practice Mentors are celebrating Loneliness Awareness Week by hosting some special online sessions, and sharing the learning and resources from the Ageing Better programme which aimed to reduce loneliness and social isolation amongst the over 50s.

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

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

Find presentations, recordings and resources from past forums here

Got an item for the e-bulletin?

Ways to Get Involved

Join us on social media

Opt in to receive VAC e-newsletter direct to your inbox

Use your own custom HTML

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

Registered Charity Number 880216. Company Limited by Guarantee registered in England No: 2388150. Registered Office: Belmont Street, London, NW1 8HF

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VAC E-Bulletin 7th June 2024

by Duncan Cordy7 June 202416 July 2024

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

Loneliness Awareness Week

Loneliness Awareness Week takes place from 10th – 16th June, and we are marking it with a VAC forum (find out more below), a spotlight on local resources in today’s newsletter, and by sharing information on other groups doing fantastic work to combat loneliness and social isolation.

Meet people and make new friends with Camden’s amazing voluntary sector

The voluntary sector in Camden works hard to support residents in all sorts of ways, but running through many activities and services is an increasing emphasis on enabling people to socialise and build friendships. Consequently, Camden has an excellent selection of social activities and opportunities provided by voluntary and community sector organisations. If you do not know where to start to find out about the hundreds of organisations and groups in this borough you can head to VAC’s directories on our website. You can search by area, community, activity, organisation type or name. Here are some of the some of the things you might find….

Search for community centres in your area to find different activities and social opportunities under one roof. Often these spaces will have access to welfare and cost of living support as well as art and craft groups, health and wellbeing programmes, exercise classes, cooking, coffee mornings, outings…… all the centres will have different things on offer so keep looking until you find what you need!

There is an entire world of small organisations in Camden’s neighbourhoods, often specialised and running activities like support schools, training, environmental projects, sports, community-run theatre, museum, library, or arts project. Some might have their own buildings whilst others are based in community centres or shared community space. These groups will have different opportunities to get involved and attend events and activities.

Many organisations and groups also support specific communities and address equalities in the borough. You should be able to find groups who speak your language, share your culture, or share a common cause or interest. Some of these groups may be resident-led where you can help to run the group or join campaigns, activities, events or volunteering roles.

For residents who may not be able to join a group or activity, there are befriending or ‘community connecting’ initiatives. Some of these operate remotely through phone calls or online groups, others are face to face. These initiatives usually depend on volunteers so you could also volunteer to befriend others.

Community gardens (and a city farm) are dotted around the borough if you like the outdoors and fancy gardening, food growing or just hanging out with other people in a relaxing green space. Try the Green Social Prescribing Directory to find other outdoor activities and walks in parks and on Hampstead Heath. Walking groups are supported by different organisations and are a popular and informal way for people to meet and chat. There are walks for different abilities and that will appeal to different interests like history or wildlife.

Volunteering is another great way to get to know people or reconnect with local community. Volunteer Centre Camden have information about opportunities on their website, or you can contact individual organisations to see if they have volunteer roles that need filling. For example, many food projects depend on volunteers to help run them. This may be as a reciprocal arrangement where you become a member of a food club, cooperative or social supermarket.

This is just a snapshot of what you might find on VAC directories, but there is a lot more, and things do change and develop. You can enhance your search by going to the websites of organisations you like the sound of and signing up for email updates and newsletters. There are also links to other local voluntary sector newsletters included in VAC newsletters. Happy searching!

Upcoming Training

Dementia, Mental Capacity and Safeguarding Adults 11th June 10.00am – 16.00pm
VAC Forum – Social isolation, loneliness and community connectedness 12th June, 10.00am – 11.00am
Understanding online gaming and gambling harms 27th June, 1pm-2pm

More details in the Events and Training section

Re-engage
Re-engage were set up in 1965 – a charity with teams across the country that aims to end loneliness among those aged 75 and over. They tackle social isolation by increasing connections and fostering community spirit, and drive awareness of some of the risks and dangers that older people are more vulnerable to, such as fraudulence and scams.

Re-engage provide a number of services, including call companions, tea parties and group activities delivered by their volunteers, ranging from dancing to tai chi.

They are now appealing for volunteers in Camden who can drive older people to and from a new activity group.

The monthly, Sunday sessions are being held from this month (June) at the Hampstead Court Care Home in Boundary Road, NW8.

Ruth Carter, an Engagement Officer at the charity, said: “Most of the older people who take part in the groups say they are more physically active, feel happier and are part of the community. They love to come along to socialise, have fun and make new friends.

“By volunteering to drive the older people you will help brighten their lives and ensure they have something they can look forward to and treasure.”

If you’d like to volunteer please contact: ruth.carter@reengage.org.uk.

Small charities underfunded & overlooked, report says

A new report from the Centre for Social Justice shows that small charities (under £1 million income) account for 97 per cent of charity closures in the last 10 years, and are most at risk of closure. The report aims to give a balanced look at the varying roles of success for smaller to larger charities in the UK, and also analyses how the public perceive differently sized charities.

NPC argue for gift aid by region
Charity think tank New Philanthropy Capital has recommended a list of policies for the government to improve the relationship with the charity sector, including varying gift aid. The move would boost the impact of donations in deprived areas and help redistribute charitable momentum to where it is most needed, argues the consultancy.

Muscular Dystrophy garden wins at Chelsea Flower Show
This year’s Chelsea flower show rewarded the Muscular Dystrophy UK Forest Bathing Garden, designed by Ula Maria, as Best in Show. Grant-making charity Project Giving Back funded 15 charity gardens at this year’s show, all designed around a variety of charitable and humanitarian causes, and the Best in Show winner celebrates the concept of ‘forest bathing’, offering a place of refuge, solace and reflection for people affected by a muscle-wasting condition. You can take a look at the winning garden here.

Every week VAC checks various sources for the latest funding opportunities relevant for Camden groups.

You can visit our website for a round up of the latest opportunities added this week: Search for Funding – Voluntary Action Camden (vac.org.uk).

Last chance for the Camden VCS Resilience Fund 2024 – accepting applications until 19th June! The fund aims to support Camden’s VCS organisations to address immediate risks and to make changes that will increase organisational sustainability and resilience in the medium to longer term. YCF are hosting a webinar with Camden council on 11th June, to answer questions on the fund.
LandAid – London Youth Homelessness Support Fund for charities in London to support young people between the ages of 16-25 who are at risk of homelessness.
YCF Heads Up! Mental Health Fund 2024, designed to address the mental health crisis among children and young people (YCF are also hosting a webinar to provide more information on the fund and answer questions – see link above).
Resuscitation Council UK is offering small grants as part of its ‘Restart a Heart’ 2024 campaign to help educate people about cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and how to use a defibrillator with the aim of saving lives
The Parkinson’s UK Physical Activity Grants Programme supports activity providers, national governing bodies, Parkinson’s groups and branches, and sports and healthcare professional who are based and operating within the UK.

VAC UPCOMING TRAINING

Dementia, Mental Capacity and Safeguarding Adults 11th June, 10.00am – 16.00pm
VAC Forum – Social isolation, loneliness and community connectedness 12th June, 10.00am – 11.00am
Understanding online gaming and gambling harms 27th June, 1pm – 2pm

Find out more here: https://vac.org.uk/news-and-events/events/

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

OTHER EVENTS

NSPCC Open Day
NSPCC are celebrating Childhood Day by welcoming professionals to their London and South East hub on June 10th. Attendees will get the opportunity to learn about the direct services NSPCC delivers, speak with practitioners, see therapy rooms and connect with different teams across the organisation to explore avenues to work together. Register your interest here, or contact Amy.CampoMcEvoy@nspcc.org.uk to find out more information.
Where: Alexandra Ciardi House, 7-8 Greenland Place, NW10AP

People’s Museum host panel discussion on social housing
On Friday 7th June, Somers Town People’s Museum are hosting “Housing is not enough / not enough housing“, a discussion featuring a number of speakers including John Broughton, author of Municipal Dreams, Ellen Peirson, Levitt Bernstein Architects and Dr Elizabeth Darling. This London Festival of Architecture event will look at the legacy of the utopian St Pancras Housing Society in the light of today’s social housing issues. Book your tickets here.

Music & Art for the Mind + others at CAWH
Community Association for West Hampstead have a series of events coming up in June:
1. Wellbeing Coffee morning, 11th June – An opportunity to meet new people, information on healthy diet and a group walk on 25th June. Open to anyone.
2. Music for the Mind, 12th June, & Art for the Mind, 19th June – a free service for over 60s. Sandwiches, Biscuits and Tea provided.
3. Basis Sewing Group Every Monday in June – An opportunity to meet new people, learning basic sewing skills (mend your socks, sew a button on, patch trousers). Open to anyone.
All events take place at 17 Dornfell Street, NW6 1QN. Contact Beatrice on beatrice@cawh.org.uk or 0207 794 3729 for more information.

VCC Volunteering Fair + Volunteer Manager’s Forum
Want to volunteer in Camden and Islington? Volunteer Centre Camden are running a Summer 24 Volunteering Fair in person in at Abbey Community Centre, 172 Belsize Road, NW6 4BJ on 12th June. No need to book – just drop in to meet groups recruiting volunteers. Then on 2nd July, join online for networking and peer support in the company of volunteer managers from everywhere. Topics are decided by you on the day and booking is free.

Sounddelivery Media Festival of Learning
Join Sounddelivery Media for their Festival of Learning – Harnessing the insights of leaders with lived experience including Charity Meetup on 11th – 20th June 2024. A festival pass will give you access to 20+ online masterclasses, learning lunches, peer discussions, wellbeing sessions, and a keynote talk by award-winning broadcaster Ashley John-Baptiste. Create your own learning journey by picking & choosing from sessions on campaigning, pitching to the media, social media and more.

Sharing Spaces Sessions at Clarence Hall
Castlehaven Community Association has transformed Clarence Hall, nestled within the Clarence Way Estate (NW1 8RN), into a Sharing Space as part of a Think & Do Camden initiative to transform spaces into climate hubs. Throughout the summer, they will host a series of free and family-friendly workshops, talks and screenings on sustainable living, food growing, upcycling, energy usage, and more. Join them on Saturday, 8th of June, from 12pm for a free launch event and discover more about the workshops here.

Talk for Health ‘Conscious Dance’ – celebrating movement
This Mental Health Awareness Week in 2024, Talk for Health is embracing the theme of ‘Movement’ with great enthusiasm. To celebrate, they’ve launched a unique event, ‘Conscious Dance,’ designed to encourage community and personal well-being through the joy of movement. Join them on Thursday 13th June 6-8pm @ Old Diorama Arts Centre. Sign up here.

Senior Manager – Reach Out Camden & Community Services

Would you like to take on an interesting and varied senior management role and be part of a community mental health charity? Mind in Camden are looking for someone with at least two years of management experience in mental health or related services who can lead and further develop Reach Out services. More information here.
Closing date: 10th June 2024

Age UK Camden Day Care Officer
Age UK Camden Day Care Centres are looking to recruit Day Care Officers to cover a range of hours and shifts across two Day Care Centres. The successful candidate will have shared responsibility in the team for the implementation of a comprehensive service of care and support for service users, act as a key worker for individual clients and deliver holistic and person centred wellbeing services which provide service users with social interaction and support to maintain their personal interests.
Closing date: 10th June 2024

Age UK Camden Day Care centre Kitchen Assistants
Age UK Camden Day Care Centres are looking to recruit two Kitchen Assistants across two Day Care Centres based in Kings Cross and Hampstead (staff are expected to be able to work at both locations as required).Their dedicated, specialist team supports people with care needs, including those living with mild – moderate dementia and complex needs. The specialist Day Care Centres care for older people with complex needs and provide a wide range of activities. You can find out more information and how to apply here.
Closing date: 10th June 2024

Big Help Out celebrate volunteers week
From Friday 7th-Sunday 9th June, aligning with volunteers week, Big Help Out are running a promotion for their community network. The Big Help Out is a nationwide platform that promotes volunteering opportunities and raise awareness of volunteering. You can find local volunteering groups on their website, or let BHO know about your own initiative so they can connect with you and circulate information.

The King’s Award for Voluntary Service
Each year, this award celebrates the work of voluntary groups across the UK and is the highest award given to local voluntary groups in the country. You can nominate groups for the award, look through volunteering opportunities and find out about previous winners on the website.

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

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

Find presentations, recordings and resources from past forums here

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VAC e-bulletin 24th May 2024

by Duncan Cordy24 May 202416 July 2024

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

New VAC Forum – social isolation, loneliness, and community connectedness

We’ve recently new announced the latest VAC forum which will take place on Wednesday 12th June. Ahead of loneliness awareness week (10th-16th June), we will be highlighting a number of events and initiatives held by ourselves and other groups who are doing important work to challenge the stigma around loneliness. If your group in the Camden area is holding an event on this topic we’d like to hear from you, along with anyone else who is doing something to mark loneliness awareness week and what kinds of things you’ll be doing. Get in touch with us at social@vac.org.uk.

New Groups Network

VAC’s Camden New Groups Network is a network for newly set-up organisations and anybody who considers starting a charity or social enterprise. The Network aims to bring people and organisations together to share, learn and develop for peer support, mentoring and networking.
To join in the Network please email VAC Membership Development Officer at vguetova@vac.org.uk
The Network’s next online meeting will be on 29th of May from 12:00 to 13:00. To join in email vguetova@vac.org.uk for the online MS teams link.

Upcoming Training

Dementia, Mental Capacity and Safeguarding Adults 11th June 10.00am – 16.00pm
VAC Forum – Social isolation, loneliness and community connectedness 12th June, 10.00am – 11.00am
Understanding online gaming and gambling harms 27th June, 1pm-2pm

More details in the Events and Training section

General election guide for charities
With a general election coming up in less than 6 weeks, it’s important that charities are prepared and knowledgeable about guidelines around engaging in political activity and campaigning. Civil Society have produced this handy article with a collection of resources and information geared towards the charity sector and campaigning before the election.

Barriers to volunteering affecting small charities the most
Reponses to Pro Bono Economics’ VCSE sector survey indicate that small charities experienced low volunteer numbers over the last 12 months, meaning many have been unable to meet their main objectives. The survey reports that volunteer recruitment challenges were less of an issue for large charities compared with last year, whereas small charities faced a struggle to recruit in the period up to May 2024.

Survey analyses cost-of-living crisis impact on the sector
Easyfundraising have released results from a new survey on how the cost-of-living crisis has affected charities over the last year. The survey focused on grassroots charities, and found that the vast majority of them reported worsening financial situations in 2023.

Every week VAC checks various sources for the latest funding opportunities relevant for Camden groups.

You can visit our website for a round up of the latest opportunities added this week: Search for Funding – Voluntary Action Camden (vac.org.uk).

Pilgrim Trust Young Women in Mind programme to help improve the mental health of women aged 16-25 in the UK.
NHS Blood and Transplant’s Community Grants Programme for projects that address misinformation and barriers, share information, and increase support for donation among Black, Asian, mixed heritage and minority ethnic communities.
Hubbub and Starbuck’s Eat it Up Fund to support UK registered organisations with an early-stage food waste project with potential for impact at scale.
Scops Art Trust for registered charities, and other constituted, not-for-profit organisations to deliver projects and activities that help people to understand, participate in, and enjoy the arts, particularly the performing arts (music, drama, opera, and dance).
Wolfson Foundation’s ‘Funding for Places’ Grants Programme accepting applications from charitable organisations and educational establishments in the UK who are seeking grants for capital initiatives, i.e. buildings (new build or refurbishment) and equipment.

VAC UPCOMING TRAINING

Dementia, Mental Capacity and Safeguarding Adults 11th June, 10.00am – 16.00pm
VAC Forum – Social isolation, loneliness and community connectedness 12th June, 10.00am – 11.00am
Understanding online gaming and gambling harms 27th June, 1pm – 2pm

Find out more here: https://vac.org.uk/news-and-events/events/

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

OTHER EVENTS

Invitation to Community Awards at UCL
Thursday, 30 May, 4:00 – 6:00 PM, Bloomsbury Theatre, UCL
A heartfelt thank you to the incredible volunteers and community organisations who make an impact on the communities in London! Join for an afternoon of inspiring stories, award presentations, and community building in the Bloomsbury Theatre before a catered reception. If you’re free earlier than 4:00pm, there’s the Volunteer Appreciation Social (book your space here) ahead of the ceremony from 2:30 PM, which includes an exciting array of board games and crafts activities, a photobooth, and some snacks and drinks to celebrate volunteering and kick off the awards with a blast You’ll get to meet student volunteers, counterparts in other community organisations and chat to the team ahead of the ceremony in the theatre.

Sounddelivery Media Festival of Learning
Join Sounddelivery Media for their Festival of Learning – Harnessing the insights of leaders with lived experience including Charity Meetup on 11th – 20th June 2024. A festival pass will give you access to 20+ online masterclasses, learning lunches, peer discussions, wellbeing sessions, and a keynote talk by award-winning broadcaster Ashley John-Baptiste. Create your own learning journey by picking & choosing from sessions on campaigning, pitching to the media, social media and more.

Support the first ‘Lightning Hack’ event at UCL
Thursday 6th June 2.30-4.30pm
The Volunteering team at Students’ Union UCL have collaborated with Camden Council to host their first ever ‘Lightning Hack’ event – where groups of students will be connected with local community organisations to come up with ideas and solutions to current challenges pitched by you. 60 students are signed up so far and they are looking for 8 local community organisations to join on the day. Please get in touch with oliver.peachey@ucl.ac.uk before Friday 31st May if you’d like to join.

CAWH’s special Film Night featuring The Grass Arena
The Community Association for West Hampstead are inviting you to their special Film Night featuring The Grass Arena, directed by Gillies MacKinnon (who has a deep connection with the community centre, having once worked there as a volunteer) followed by Q&A with the director himself! The event will take place at West Hampstead Community Centre, 17 Dornfell Street, NW6 1QN, on Friday 24th May from 7pm, film starts at 7:30pm.

Sharing Spaces Sessions at Clarence Hall
Castlehaven Community Association has transformed Clarence Hall, nestled within the Clarence Way Estate (NW1 8RN), into a Sharing Space as part of a Think & Do Camden initiative to transform spaces into climate hubs. Throughout the summer, they will host a series of free and family-friendly workshops, talks and screenings on sustainable living, food growing, upcycling, energy usage, and more. Join them on Saturday, 8th of June, from 12pm for a free launch event and discover more about the workshops here.

Free Community Festival at the Likewise Community Centre
The Zen Project and Mind in Camden bring to you another of their monthly festivals on Thursday 30th May to celebrate mental health and support the local Camden community. Open to all and all activities are free. Free food, massage, mindfulness sessions and more. Climb on board the big yellow American school bus and take part in activities to help create some calm and ease anxiety. With something for everyone, there’s no need to book – just turn up. More information here.

Talk for Health ‘Conscious Dance’ – celebrating movement
This Mental Health Awareness Week in 2024, Talk for Health is embracing the theme of ‘Movement’ with great enthusiasm. To celebrate, they’ve launched a unique event, ‘Conscious Dance,’ designed to encourage community and personal well-being through the joy of movement. Join them on Thursday 13th June 6-8pm @ Old Diorama Arts Centre. Sign up here.

Ambassadors for Change Community Event
Survivors Can Shine are delighted to invite you to this year’s Ambassadors for Change Community Event, taking place on Saturday 25th May 2024! SCS are thrilled to announce that the event will take place on the iconic Hampstead Heath, the first event of its kind to be held there! If you haven’t already, you can register here. The event will bring children, young people and the wider community together in collective strength in a positive movement for change. For more information email lily@survivorscanshine.org.uk or call 07878841675.

Young Camden Foundation’s Pride Celebration
Did you know, in the Borough of Camden 17% of people do not identify as straight or heterosexual, higher than the national average! Join on Thursday 6th June for an evening of learning and conversation. From 6:00pm there will be a panel: Building Bridges: Strengthening Solidarity Between Camden’s LGBTQ+ CYP Organisations and Marginalised Communities featuring those working at leading LGBTQ+ organisations including Mosaic LGBT+ Young Persons’ Trust, Gendered Intelligence and ELOP. There will be a chance to network with others from within the sector and learn from each other on how to better support LGBTQ+ young people you work with.

Kurdish Community Meeting
A group of volunteers from the Kurdish Syrian Community Group are running events for the Kurdish Syrian diaspora and people from all ethnicities. The events are family-friendly with games, quizzes for adults, arts and fun activities for the kids.
The next Kurdish Community meeting in London is on Sunday 26th of May from 2.00-6.00pm at 24 Haverstock Hill, Chalk Farm, NW3 2BQ.

Senior Manager – Reach Out Camden & Community Services

Trustees needed at The Winch
The Winch seeks three trustees passionate about child development and aligned with their values of integrity and collaboration. If you’re eager to enhance leadership skills and drive positive change in North Camden, apply by May 27. They seek expertise in property development, philanthropy, and financial strategy. Join them in fostering vibrant communities. Apply now.

Age UK Camden Dementia Wellbeing Worker
Age UK Camden Dementia Wellbeing Service is looking to recruit a Dementia Wellbeing Worker to join their team working 35 hours per week on a permanent basis. The service supports Camden residents over the age of 55 in the early or moderate stages of dementia, to live independently and safely at home for as long as possible, stay socially engaged and carry on doing what they love. Age UK Camden are looking to fill this post on an immediate basis so they will be interviewing shortlisted candidates on a rolling basis.
Closing Date: 31st May.

Go! London Young Entrepreneurs Start Up Programme
Does your organisation work with young people in London who may be interested in starting a sports-related business? The Go! London Young Entrepreneurs Start Up Programme is currently looking for 25 young people to take part in an exciting programme delivered by the School for Social Entrepreneurs in London. But they need help to find them! Those working with young people are invited to come along to a briefing session to find out more about the programme and give you the information you need to refer people to the programme. The session will take place on Thursday 23rd May from 5pm – 6pm, and you can register here.

Camden social isolation campaign
Are you working on loneliness or social isolation in Camden? Get in touch with Camden Council! They are launching a campaign to raise awareness of loneliness. As part of this, they are keen to showcase stories about the work local groups and organisations are doing to reduce loneliness in our borough and help residents connect with the local community. If you are delivering or have delivered a project to reduce loneliness or social isolation, contact lucy.jacob@camden.gov.uk.

Opportunities for Camden Young School Governors
This free opportunity on Thursday 6th June from 12.30-1.30pm includes training and support, for those keen to learn about the Camden Young Governors’ Pathway to Governance Programme, and find out how you can give back to the borough while gaining valuable skills and knowledge by volunteering as a school governor. You can register or find out more here.

Healthwatch Camden are looking for volunteers
Do you want to help improve health and social care services in Camden? Healthwatch Camden are your local health champion, and they are seeking volunteers who will help them to engage directly with the local community and represent their voices to decision-makers. Depending on your interests, you can choose to help with research work, health promotion activities, or even become trained as authorised visitors to local services. Please contact info@healthwatchcamden.co.uk to sign up today.

Free one-day leisure centre pass for over 60s
Last chance for over 60s to claim free one-day leisure centre pass! Camden over 60s can claim a FREE one-day leisure centre pass to try out swimming, classes and gym facilities in any Camden Better Leisure Centre. There are less than 100 free passes left. To claim yours and browse the wide range of free and low cost physical activities for over 60s in Camden visit here.

Panel recruitment for We Make Camden Kit fund
Camden Giving are aiming to recruit 10-12 Camden residents who will access training and support, to decide how this year’s funds are best spent through their participatory grant giving process. They particularly welcome applications from people from communities and groups that are underrepresented in decision making. These are LGBTQ+ people, men, people with disabilities, care leavers, people under 25 and people from the global majority.
Deadline for applications: Friday 30th May

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

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

Find presentations, recordings and resources from past forums here

Got an item for the e-bulletin?

*Please note there will be no VAC newsletter next week (Friday 31st May). Instead look out for a quarterly update from our CEO, Keith Morgan!*

Ways to Get Involved

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Greenwood Centre, Greenwood Place, London, NW5 1LB

Registered Charity Number 880216. Company Limited by Guarantee registered in England No: 2388150. Registered Office: Belmont Street, London, NW1 8HF

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VAC e-bulletin 17th May 2024

by Duncan Cordy17 May 202416 July 2024

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

Ygam

Our Community Safeguarding Partnership Lead, Dianne, works with different organisations around Camden to promote the wellbeing of children and vulnerable adults. This week, Dianne has highlighted the work of Ygam, a charity raising awareness about the potential harms of gambling and gambling addiction. In her words:

Voluntary Action Camden’s Community Safeguarding Project is always looking for practical and solution focused ways to tackle the safeguarding challenges faced by our voluntary organisations, community groups, faith and supplementary schools delivering services to under 18’s in Camden.

This led to our partnership work with Ygam, an award-winning charity with a mission to prevent children and young people from experiencing gaming and gambling harms through awareness raising, education and research.

First established in 2014, Ygam came about as a result of the lived experience of its founders Anne and Keith Evans, who lost their son Alan Lockhart by suicide in 2010.
Alan had suffered for over 25 years with a gambling addiction; he took his own life at age 40.

Together they were determined to use education as a tool to raise awareness and help safeguard future generations against gaming and gambling harms.

Over the past two years, Ygam’s partnership with VAC has helped deliver bespoke, practical, and informative training sessions to parents, professionals, community workers and volunteers all over Camden. Working alongside JoAnn Sproule, our dedicated training and engagement manager; her diverse background in education, youth work, and the voluntary sector has seen her take on various roles which have included Mental Health First Aider and Senior Youth Worker.

By empowering professionals and helping parents to safeguarding their own children and young people from the dangers, the Community Safeguarding Project continues its partnership with Ygam this summer. Join us for our virtual session in June and keep a look out in the VAC Newsletter for our accredited City and Guilds programme coming soon.

To find out about further training for your organisation, contact JoAnn Sproule at: JoAnnSproule@ygam.org
You can find Ygam’s website here: https://www.ygam.org/

Upcoming Training

Voluntary sector organisational structures; what’s right for you? 15th May, 10.00am – 12.00pm
Safeguarding, signposting and Support: Camden Carers 23rd May, 10.00am – 11.00am
Dementia, Mental Capacity and Safeguarding Adults 11th June 10.00am – 16.00pm*
VAC Forum – Social isolation, loneliness and community connectedness 12th June, 10.00am – 11.00am*
Understanding online gaming and gambling harms 27th June, 1pm-2pm*

* newly announced this week.

More details in the Events and Training section

“Donor Pulse” report on public donation trends
Enthuse’s “Donor Pulse” repor t gives analysis on the latest trends in donor behaviour and public opinion on supporting charities. The report studies the current political and economic environment how it effects donor support for charities, and provides insight on the wider relationship between the public and the charity sector.Majority of adults want charities to behave sustainably
A new survey by a group of large charities returned findings that 8/10 adults believe charities should be environmentally sustainable, and half of those said they would be more likely to donate to a charity if they knew it had been investing in sustainability. The survey also analysed public opinion on their view on the responsibility for sustainability in businesses versus charities.

Report finds age influences how people hear about charitable causes
Social media influencers are a significant avenue for younger people to discover charitable causes, according to part 2 of a new report from Tomorrow’s Donor, Today. The report studied various age groups and how each was most likely to hear about good causes, as well as how they perceive charities differently.

Every week VAC checks various sources for the latest funding opportunities relevant for Camden groups.

You can visit our website for a round up of the latest opportunities added this week: Search for Funding – Voluntary Action Camden (vac.org.uk).

London’s Violence Reduction Unit – Innovation Fund 2023-2025 for community-led organisations across London supporting vulnerable Londoners who have been involved in or are at risk of violence
Women’s Health Community Fund to improve education and awareness on common health issues experienced by women in the UK
Henry Smith Charity Holiday Grants for Children – priority to projects that will benefit disadvantaged and disabled children in the most deprived areas in the UK
Schroder Charity Trust for charities in the UK who are working in the areas of education and young people, communities, environment and conservation, health, arts, culture and heritage
Grocers’ Charity Grants for registered charities in the UK with a turnover of under £500,000

VAC UPCOMING TRAINING

Voluntary sector organisational structures; what’s right for you? 15th May, 10.00am – 12.00pm
Safeguarding, signposting and Support: Camden Carers 23rd May, 10.00am – 11.00am
Dementia, Mental Capacity and Safeguarding Adults 11th June, 10.00am – 16.00pm
VAC Forum – Social isolation, loneliness and community connectedness 12th June, 10.00am – 11.00am
Understanding online gaming and gambling harms 27th June, 1pm – 2pm

Find out more here: https://vac.org.uk/news-and-events/events/

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

OTHER EVENTS

Good Work Camden’s Jobs and Skills event
Whether you are looking for a new role, interested in training or want advice on interviews – the Good Work Camden’s Jobs and Skills event is the place to be! Come along and meet with a wide range of local employers, attend workshops, and receive expert advice on career development. This free event will take place on Thursday 23 May, 11am to 4pm at the Crowndale Centre, 59 Crowndale Road, London NW1 1TN. There will be a quiet session for neuro-divergent and disabled residents from 10am to 10.45am.

Upcoming Free Workshops from Birkbeck
Next Steps for Newham ESOL Learners
21st May, 11:00 – 14:00, Mary Ward Centre E15 2TF.
Includes:
• Workshops, stalls and opportunities.
• Information on jobs, volunteering and further learning.
Drop in on the day, Contact esolexhcange@compostlondon.org.uk for questions.

Building Confidence to Return to Education in partnership with the Recovery College.
23rd May, 10:00 – 12:00, Birkbeck campus.
Increase self-awareness and challenge negative beliefs about returning to education.
More information about the course and the Recovery College and sign up link.

Sharing Spaces Sessions at Clarence Hall
Castlehaven Community Association has transformed Clarence Hall, nestled within the Clarence Way Estate (NW1 8RN), into a Sharing Space as part of a Think & Do Camden initiative to transform spaces into climate hubs. Throughout the summer, they will host a series of free and family-friendly workshops, talks and screenings on sustainable living, food growing, upcycling, energy usage, and more. Join them on Saturday, 8th of June, from 12 pm for a free launch event and discover more about the workshops here.

Free Community Festival at the Likewise Community Centre
The Zen Project and Mind in Camden bring to you another of their monthly festivals to celebrate mental health and support the local Camden community. Open to all and all activities are free. Free food, massage, mindfulness sessions and more. Climb on board the big yellow American school bus and take part in activities to help create some calm and ease anxiety. With something for everyone, there’s no need to book – just turn up. More information here.

Talk for Health ‘Conscious Dance’ – celebrating movement
This Mental Health Awareness Week in 2024, Talk for Health is embracing the theme of ‘Movement’ with great enthusiasm. To celebrate, they’ve launched a unique event, ‘Conscious Dance,’ designed to encourage community and personal well-being through the joy of movement. Join them on Thursday 13th June 6-8pm @ Old Diorama Arts Centre. Sign up here.

Young Camden Foundation’s Pride Celebration
Did you know, in the Borough of Camden 17% of people do not identify as straight or heterosexual, higher than the national average! Join for an evening of learning and conversation. From 6:00pm there will be a panel: Building Bridges: Strengthening Solidarity Between Camden’s LGBTQ+ CYP Organisations and Marginalised Communities featuring those working at leading LGBTQ+ organisations including Mosaic LGBT+ Young Persons’ Trust, Gendered Intelligence and ELOP. There will be a chance to network with others from within the sector and learn from each other on how to better support LGBTQ+ young people you work with.

Camden Carers Support & Wellbeing worker

An exciting opportunity to join Camden Carers and make a difference to the lives of people and families in Camden. This is a full time role with a 2 year contract, for a support & wellbeing worker (mental health lead) who is a hardworking, enthusiastic and flexible team member, able to adapt to the ever changing and challenging times we find ourselves in.
Deadline for applications: 20th May, 9am.

Training Link Green Learning Coordinator
Training Link is recruiting a new Green Learning Coordinator, who will develop and run environmental workshops for local residents in Somers Town. The purpose of the role is to design and deliver a new Green Learning programme for Training Link and to support residents in Somers Town in their journey to becoming cleaner and greener through community engagement, training and project delivery. To apply for this role, please submit your CV and a cover letter to Tanya Buynovskaya, Director, on director@traininglink.org.uk.

Mental Health Employment Specialist (IPS)
Hillside Clubhouse are recruiting an IPS Employment Specialist based within their Camden team. If you are passionate about supporting people with mental health into employment and want to join a well established IPS team, then this could be the role for you! Please apply here.
Closing Date: 18th May.

Elfrida Rathbone Camden is recruiting a new Director
Elfrida Rathbone Camden are looking for an exceptional leader who is passionate about their missionhttps://www.charityjob.co.uk/jobs/elfrida-rathbone-camden/director/965350?tsId=1 and has vision. The new Director will be leading the organisation through a period of significant change.
Deadline: 20th May.

Part-time Manager at Belsize Community Library
The Belsize Community Library seeks a part-time Manager, £33,000 (pro rata) for 24hrs/week. Experience in community library settings and events programming is essential. Seeking a highly organized, motivated individual passionate about fostering community connections through literacy and creativity. Apply by May 20, 2024, or sooner if a suitable candidate is found. Interviews are ongoing from April 29, 2024. Read the full job description for details.

Age UK Camden Scams Prevention & Support
If you have concerns about scams, think you may have been a victim of a scam or would like some tips on how to avoid them, then Age UK Camden can help. Their Information & Advice team are here to support you through providing awareness talks or 1-1 support for anyone over 50. Get in touch with one of their advisors today and see how they can help you, on 020 7837 3777.

Introducing Castlehaven CA’s Community Cinema
Experience the magic of cinema for free every first Thursday of the month at Castlehaven’s brand-new community cinema in Clarence Hall (NW1 8RN). Transport yourself across the globe with a captivating selection of films spanning various genres. Mark your calendars for their next screening on Thursday, 6th June, of the French drama “120 BPM” in honour of LGBTQ+ Pride month. Don’t miss out on this cinematic adventure—discover more here.

Laamiga Mentee Opportunities
Laamiga a women’s charity are recruiting adult women, who live in Camden and are from Black, Asian, minority ethnic, refugee and migrant backgrounds for their virtual online Mentoring programme. Laamiga provide a trained and supervised volunteer female mentor for 12 months. Mentors can support with English language conversation, study skills, job search, business start ups, UK workplace culture, career development, interview & parenting skills, etc… For more information email info@laamiga.org or call 0208 257 7317.

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

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VAC e-bulletin 10th May 2024

by Duncan Cordy10 May 202416 July 2024

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Jobs and Volunteering | Surveys, Resources and Opportunities

New training opportunities
We’ve locked in some new and diverse training opportunities across a range of topics, with more coming in the next couple of weeks. Have a look at the news and events section of our website, which has details on training sessions in May and June on topics like safeguarding, dementia awareness and choosing the right structure for your voluntary sector organisation or community group.

Upcoming Training

Voluntary sector organisational structures; what’s right for you? 15th May, 10.00am – 12.00pm
Safeguarding, signposting and Support: Camden Carers 23rd May, 10.00am – 11.00am
Dementia, Mental Capacity and Safeguarding Adults 11th June 10.00am – 16.00pm

More details in the Events and Training section

Online safety act likely to affect numerous charities
New online safety laws have been introduced to help keep people in the UK safe from harmful and illegal content online. Charities that provide online content, such as a website or an app, and particularly those that provide services for children, may be affected by these changes. You can use a tool on Ofcom’s website to find out if you are affected by the rule changes and what to do if you are.

Report finds volunteering boosts economy and wellbeing
A new report from Pro Bono Economics gives information on how investing in volunteering can benefit businesses. Volunteering opportunities increase staff morale and productivity, the report found, with one statistic showing that, on average, employees who participate in a workplace volunteering scheme spend 0.9 days less per year absent from one work.

Lack of diverse socioeconomic representation in sector
Social Mobility in the Charity Sector, a report released by EY Foundation, says that people from low socioeconomic backgrounds are underrepresented in paid charity roles. The report compared the charity sector with the public and private sectors, and suggests that lack of resources, visibility and the development of value-driven branding in business deter young people and those from poorer backgrounds from applying to charity roles.

Every week VAC checks various sources for the latest funding opportunities relevant for Camden groups.
You can visit our website for a round up of the latest opportunities added this week: Search for Funding – Voluntary Action Camden (vac.org.uk).

Camden VCS Resilience Fund 2024
A third round of Camden’s Voluntary and Community Sector Resilience Fund is now open for applications. The Camden Resilience Fund 2024 aims to support Camden’s VCS organisations to address immediate risks and to make changes that will increase organisational sustainability and resilience in the medium to longer term. A total grant pot of £500,000 is available for the Camden Resilience Fund 2024. Grant awards will be between £6,000 and £30,000. Before completing an application, please read the guidance notes which also contains Frequently Asked Questions. To apply you will need to complete an application form and submit this by 12 noon on Wednesday 19 June 2024. Camden are hosting information sessions for the fund on the following dates and times:
• Monday 20 May 2024, midday to 1pm
• Thursday 23 May 2024, 4pm to 5pm

Early Opportunity Notice for the Transition to eVisa Fund
The Home Office will offer grant funding up to the value of £3,000,000 to provide direct support to customers as they transition from physical immigration documents to eVisas. Successful organisations will be required to provide direct support to customers when creating their UKVI account and accessing their eVisa. For further information or to register your interest in applying please click here.

Poundland Foundation Reopens to Applications

Groups from across the UK can now apply for the next round of Poundland Foundation’s Kits for Kids programme, which will see local children’s teams and clubs provided with new sports kit. The funding is available for local charities, community interest companies and unregistered community organisations across the UK, providing they have an annual income of less than £10,000 and reserves of less than £5,000. Organisations can apply for grants of up to £750.

Hilden Charitable Trust

The Hilden Charitable Trust aims to address disadvantage by supporting causes which are less likely to raise funds from public subscription or statutory services. Both the UK and overseas fund policy is directed largely at supporting work at community level. Activities must fall into one of two programme areas; asylum seekers and refuges or penal affairs.

VAC UPCOMING TRAINING

Voluntary sector organisational structures; what’s right for you? 15th May, 10.00am – 12.00pm
Safeguarding, signposting and Support: Camden Carers 23rd May, 10.00am – 11.00am
Dementia, Mental Capacity and Safeguarding Adults 11th June 10.00am – 16.00pm

Find out more here: https://vac.org.uk/news-and-events/events/

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

OTHER EVENTS

Young Camden Foundation’s Pride Celebration
YCF are hosting their first ever Pride Celebration to coincide with Pride Month this June. Join for an evening of learning and conversation. Did you know, in the Borough of Camden 17% of people do not identify as straight or heterosexual, higher than the national average! From 6:00pm there will be a panel: Building Bridges: Strengthening Solidarity Between Camden’s LGBTQ+ CYP Organisations and Marginalised Communities featuring those working at leading LGBTQ+ organisations including Mosaic LGBT+ Young Persons’ Trust and Gendered Intelligence.

Endometriosis Support Session in Camden
Do you suffer from Endometriosis or suspect you might have the symptoms like painful period, painful bowels, fatigue, pelvic pain, infertility? Endometriosis is an invisible condition which affects 1 in 8 women in the UK, and can have a huge impact on the physical, mental, and socio-economic health of women and girls. Healthwatch Camden invites you to join their upcoming support session with a women’s health practitioner teaching mindfulness meditation and gentle exercises for pelvic pain. You will then hear from a mental health nurse and have the chance to ask her any questions and share your experiences in a safe space with other women who suffer from this condition. Contact info@healthwatchcamden.co.uk or call 020 3687 0015 for more information.
15th May 2024, St Pancras & Somers Town Living Centre, 2 Ossulston St, NW1 1DF

Scene & Heard 25th birthday pop-up museum
Come see how Scene & Heard brings imaginations to life on and off the stage in Camden at a FREE pop-up museum. Explore interactive displays, galleries and incredible costumes inspired by the amazing imaginations of children. Suitable for all ages, open 10th-11th May, 11am – 7pm. Refreshments available all day.

Kurdish Community Meeting
The next Kurdish Community meeting in London is on Sunday 26th of May from 2.00- 6.00pm at 24 Haverstock Hill, Chalk Farm, London NW3 2BQ. People from all ethnicities are welcome.

Camden Carers Support & Wellbeing worker

Wac Arts Summer School Programme 2024
This exciting programme, offered to young people aged 4-14, takes place between 29th July and 23rd August, and has been carefully designed to provide a dynamic and diverse range of activities including performing, digital, and creative arts activities with a different scheme offered each week. Are you ready for a summer of non-stop creativity, laughter, and friendship-building? Find out more and book your place here.

Child Online Safety for Parents Workshops, Enrolling Now!
Children and young people spend so much time online, and parents often struggle to keep up with new digital apps, games and media their children are using. Camden Adult Community Learning are running FREE online workshops for parents and carers living or working in Camden, or with children in Camden schools or Early Years. You’ll find out the main risks, explore tools & resources, and become better informed to help your child develop healthy online habits. Workshops are running throughout June and are booking now – just pick a day and time that suits, and sign up on the enrolment page here. For more information, contact adultlearning@camden.gov.uk.

Volunteering opportunity for Camden parents and carers
Do you know a Camden parent or carer who would be interested in becoming an inspirational volunteer Families for Life Community Champion? Potential champions will attend a free six-week training programme, starting on Tuesday 11 June to learn about the role, safeguarding, health and wellbeing priorities and services on offer. Champions will talk to families with children aged 2 to 11 about healthy lifestyles and promote the benefits of eating healthily and being active. For information, please email syria.chowdhury@camden.gov.uk.

Stallholder call-out for Camley Street Festival 2024!
Sunday 7th July from 11am – 3pm (9:30am – 3:30 set-up/take-down)
Last year 150-200 local people joined exciting stallholders from across the community; as well as food, music, and fun, free activities! You can participate in lots of different ways, ideas are welcomed. Email your stall idea and who you are to rozita.leetham@camden.gov.uk and caisha.mohamud@camden.gov.uk by midnight Sunday 19th May to sign up!

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

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VAC Newsletter 03/05/2024

by Duncan Cordy3 May 2024

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Informal volunteering and social action
It’s important to remember that so much community work and social action takes place outside of large groups and networks, particularly locally. You can start a volunteering project even if you’re just one person! This week we’re sharing some resources which can help you find small community projects based around swapping and sharing, campaigning, and environmental and community care in the Camden area, and, if there’s gap in the market, find out more information on starting your own!

Upcoming Training

Voluntary sector organisational structures; what’s right for you? 15th May, 10.00am – 12.00pm

More details in the Events and Training section

Charities losing impact and independence, audience hears
Outgoing CEO of Lloyds Bank Foundation, Paul Streets, told an audience of charity leaders on Wednesday that larger charities are struggling to deliver effective services thanks to underfunded public contracts. Charities should hand back services to the state if they are unable to run them, said Streets, rather than continue to struggle to carry out their contracts.

A third of charities suffered cyber attacks in the last year
32% of charities experienced a form of attack or breach on their cyber security in the last year, a figure which increases for charities with £500,000 or more in annual income. Phishing, viruses and malware, and digitally impersonating organisations were the most common kinds of attacks, but the government has claimed that businesses are more likely than charities to protect themselves through proper “cyber hygiene” measures.

Majority of community buildings lack energy efficiency
A report by Social Investment Business has found that over half of the community buildings in the country do not meet a basic energy efficiency standard of EPC rating C, commonly suggested as the minimum required for sale or let. For charities that rent such buildings from local councils to do their work, this results in higher energy bills as councils often neglect essential maintenance work to improve building efficiency.

VAC UPCOMING TRAINING

Voluntary sector organisational structures; what’s right for you? 15th May, 10.00am – 12.00pm

Find out more here: https://vac.org.uk/news-and-events/events/

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

OTHER EVENTS

Cost of Living event – Camden Disability Action
Camden Disability Action is hosting a Cost of Living Event at the Greenwood Centre, Kentish Town, NW5 1LB on Tuesday 7th May. There will be presentations about benefits, grants, debt and energy. Attendees will then be able to speak directly to expert advisors from Camden Disability Action, Deaf Plus, Mary Ward Legal Centre, Citizen’s Advice, the Disability Job Hub, Energy and Tackling Poverty Team from Camden Council as well as other local services about any specific issues you may have and to hear what these services can help you with. Captions and BSL interpreters will be present at the event. Contact constance@camdendisabilityaction.org.uk with any questions about the event.

Discover the value of flexible working
Join the Inclusive Business Network on 21 May, 12pm to 1pm, for an online event exploring the benefits of flexible working. Hosted with Timewise, learn about the value of fostering and effects on wellbeing. Hear from experts, share experiences, and drive positive change in Camden. Email christine.shobande@camden.gov.uk or hayley.lynch@camden.gov.uk to register. You can also register here to join IBN.

Walking on Hampstead Heath with Heath Hands
Did you know that May is National Walking Month? A great opportunity to join Heath Hands on their walks, including one of 3 health walks, women-only Nordic walking walk in partnership with QCCA or one of their regular nature discovery and nature mindfulness walks – find out more on their website.

Volunteer as a tutor with Action Tutoring
Action Tutoring are holding two events over the next two weeks where you can come and find out about volunteering to tutor disadvantaged children with their English and maths. The second event is part of the “Big Help Out” weekend on 7th-9th June. Find out more and sign up here.

Go FWD Music Project
Go FWD is a thrilling new initiative led by Gain Ctrl and Go Forward Youth, offering 10 weeks free studio time and professional independent artist development for young people aged 16-25. Sessions will run on Wednesdays and Fridays in Camden at Go Forward Youth’s base. With a unique music studio and mentoring experience from producers that have worked with the likes of Potter Payper to One Direction, they are ready to empower a fresh cohort with the tools needed to navigate the music business. With limited spaces available, please email dominique.buchanan@go-forwardyouth.org for more information.

Stallholder call-out for Camley Street Festival 2024!
Last year 150-200 local people joined exciting stallholders from across the community; as well as food, music, and fun, free activities! You can participate in lots of different ways, ideas are welcomed. Email your stall idea and who you are to rozita.leetham@camden.gov.uk and caisha.mohamud@camden.gov.uk by midnight Sunday 19th May to sign up!

Single-use plastics and reusables survey and campaign
The NLWA want to hear your thoughts on single-use plastics and switching to reusable alternatives.
Take their survey today and be in with a chance to win a £200 voucher! Open to adults that live or work in Camden. Are you passionate about the environment? Do you see yourself as a reusables champion? You could star in their new campaign! Find out more.

Bertram street multi-use sports hall for hire
A brand-new sports hall will be in the new community centre on Bertram Street, Highgate. The multi-use sports hall is available for a huge variety of activities including basketball, football or to do karate lessons or hold classes for creative music, dance or theatre practice. For more info of the activities you can hire the hall for, please contact the new centre manager Eiran Kelly at Ekelly@hncc.org.uk.

Talk for Health 6-day Peer Counselling Programme
On the full Talk for Health Peer Counselling Programme, you will deepen your knowledge and skills as well as have space to practice the four key learning areas of Talk for Health: open and truthful talking, empathic listening, basic counselling skills, and how to create your own wellbeing group. Starting Saturday 8th June.

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

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

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

Registered Charity Number 880216. Company Limited by Guarantee registered in England No: 2388150. Registered Office: Belmont Street, London, NW1 8HF

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VAC Newsletter 26/4/2024

by Duncan Cordy27 April 20243 May 2024

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Farewell to our IT and Digital Manager, Alex Charles

It’s a sad day for us here at VAC. Alex, who is our IT and Digital Manager in name but much much more than that in presence, contribution and stature, is leaving VAC after having been a key member of our team for such a long time. Alex has always been a great champion of VAC’s work, and has been a figure of support and encouragement for all of us here. Her absence is going to leave a significant hole and she will be sorely missed. In her own words:

“Having worked for VAC for close to 20 years in one role or another, it’s with a heavy heart to be moving on to new pastures. Throughout my time at VAC, I’ve remained deeply passionate about the incredible work VAC has done – and continues to do – supporting the Camden VCS. It’s been a wonderful journey for me getting to know Camden in-and-out and meet many groups and devoted and passionate people along the way; some of whom have been working in the Camden VCS for as long as, or longer than me. I will miss you all, and my wonderful colleagues, most of whom I’ve known for many years, but look forward to continuing to support VAC on it’s journey with Salesforce on a freelance basis. Keep doing the wonderful work you all do and may our paths cross again!”

Thank you Alex for all your help and expertise over the years!
We wish you all the best of luck in the future.

Upcoming Training

We’ve got just a few hot tickets left for our Budgeting and Financial Planning workshop next Tuesday! This day long session will cover the key ingredients and make you a pro in planning your organisation’s finances. The training will take place at the Crowndale Centre on 218 Eversholt Street, NW1 1BD. You can book your place using the link below.

Budgeting and Financial Planning 30th April, 9.30am – 4pm
Voluntary sector organisational structures; what’s right for you? 15th May, 10.00am – 12.00pm

More details in the Events and Training section

Creating Ultra-Low & Local Circular Food Waste Zones in Camden
Lifeafterhummus Community Benefit Society have shared their report on food waste in Camden (and beyond). In the summer of 2023 they interviewed 109 businesses and over 30 VCS partners in and around Somers Town on the barriers to giving and receiving surplus food. The research revealed that more food than previously thought is going to waste in Camden and has led to 4 recommendations to the Council.The data also suggest that VCS organisations struggle to meet the demand for food related services and need additional resources. Widely requested by over 80% of respondents is Food, Goods, Transport and Funding. The organisation are now inviting councillors, officers, VCS partners and businesses to express an interest in attending a workshop (on a date to be agreed) to look at the possibilities of implementing these recommendations by taking an inter-departmental and collaborative approach.

Exclude us from marriage value changes, charities say
A number of charities have stressed to the government that they will lose millions in charitable funds if proposed changes to marriage value, which relates to property value increase when lease is extended, go through. This could be averted by an exemption for charities, argue key figures in the sector.

Xledger Charity Digital Financial Report
Along with Censuswide UK, Xledger have produced a repor t looking at digital transformation and the financial backdrop in the charity sector. Xledger’s CEO, Peter Hucker, has also written this piece in Civil Society about how financial tools can aid charities.

VAC UPCOMING TRAINING

Budgeting and Financial Planning 30th April, 9.30am – 4pm
Voluntary sector organisational structures; what’s right for you? 15th May, 10.00am – 12.00pm

Find out more here: https://vac.org.uk/news-and-events/events/

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

OTHER EVENTS

Cost of Living event – Camden Disability Action
Camden Disability Action is hosting a Cost of Living Event at the Greenwood Centre, Kentish Town, NW5 1LB on Tuesday 7th May. There will be presentations about benefits, grants, debt and energy. Attendees will then be able to speak directly to expert advisors from Camden Disability Action, Deaf Plus, Mary Ward Legal Centre, Citizen’s Advice, the Disability Job Hub, Energy and Tackling Poverty Team from Camden Council as well as other local services about any specific issues you may have and to hear what these services can help you with. Captions and BSL interpreters will be present at the event. Contact constance@camdendisabilityaction.org.uk with any questions about the event.

Grandparents in Taiwan – An Illustrated Talk
Photographer, Hsi Lun Chen (Shiloh), grew up on the island of Matsu off the coast of Taiwan. From 1956 to 1992 tight military control had restricted the use of cameras on the island. As a result, a whole generation of grandparents had few or no photos of themselves or their young families. In 2015 Shiloh set out to change this, photographing residents aged 85 and above and exploring their lives and untold stories. Book your tickets for this event at Community Association for West Hampstead on Friday 26th April.

Free steel pan music-making for young Camden residents
The Steel Pan Music team are inviting young people in Camden to their free music-making sessions, held in the Warren Centre on Mondays and Saturdays. Steel pan is learnt by rote, copying note patterns, not reading sheet music, so progress is fast and lots of fun! Contact hi@steelpanmusic.org.uk for more information.

Children’s Nature Garden Open Day
Join Castlehaven Community Association on Saturday, 27th April, for the opening of their Children’s Nature Garden at the Elm Haven Community Garden located on Barker Drive, NW1 0JW. Plant wildlife-friendly plants, participate in nature-themed arts & crafts and help name the garden. This event is open to all, but children must be accompanied by an adult. For more information, please email environmentalteam@castlehaven.org.uk.

Calthorpe Community Garden office administrator

Calthorpe Community Garden is seeking an experienced and driven part time office administrator to take ownership of business stream management as well as the charity’s office tasks. This is a part time (fixed term contract) six month role with an aim to develop into a long term position at the charity, so they are looking for someone who is ready to become part of the team! To apply, please send your CV and a cover letter to info@calthorpecommunitygarden.org.uk by 30th April 2024.

Women + Health seek female trustee
Women + Health supports Camden residents with physical and mental health. They need a female fundraising trustee with fundraising experience, working on strategy, events, corporates and high net worth individuals. She will work with the director, MC and fundraising coordinator. BAME women and other underrepresented groups are welcomed. Have a look at the current board of trustees, and contact trustee@women-and-health.org.uk with your CV or any questions.
Deadline: Saturday 27th April

SHP Peer Mentoring Team open recruitment
SHP Peer Mentoring Team are looking for volunteers to join their peer mentoring service in Camden, Islington and Westminster with lived experience of substance use, mental health support, homelessness and the criminal justice system and who are now a minimum 6 months abstinent, are stable in their recovery and want to volunteer their time to help others. Send applications and enquiries to peermentoring@shp.org.uk by 28th April 2024.

Roundhouse Creative Leadership course
How to lead with clarity, confidence and purpose – The Roundhouse are accepting applications for their creative leadership course. Join a diverse group of emerging creative leaders and learn how to strategise, communicate effectively, and evolve into an impactful leader. For young people seeking roles in high-impact sectors such as government, the arts, business & philanthropy. Free to apply, pay only if selected.
Apply by Wednesday 1st May

Bayes Business School Charity Master’s Programmes
The Centre for Charity Effectiveness at Bayes Business School (formerly Cass) offer 5 specialist charities master’s programmes, aimed at empowering and supporting performance in the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector and nurturing the charity leaders of tomorrow. The programmes are taught in a part-time, flexible format, allowing students to balance work in the non-profit sector and study.

TikTok Charity Academy
For those who want to learn more about how to use TikTok for fundraising, advocacy and driving positive change, the social media platform is launching a new initiative along with Media Trust, giving over 100 charities the chance to get 3 weeks free training. Senior figures in the sector spoke at the launch event to explain the opportunities TikTok offers, and urged others not to underestimate the potential of the platform to reach young people. The academy will take place on 1-19 July and is now open to applications until 21st May.

Historic Royal Palace’s Community Access Scheme
This is a free opportunity for organisations supporting Camden residents to access tickets, resources and special event invitations to Historic Royal palaces (Tower of London, Kensington Palace, Hampton Court and more). Sign up to attend a short training session on either:
• Tuesday 28 May, 10:00-14:30 at Kensington Palace
• Tuesday 4 June, 10:00-14:30 at Kensington Palace
To register, please complete this online form by Tuesday 21st May:

Neighbourly platform for accessing local volunteer help
Neighbourly is a free to use platform for connecting charities and business with local volunteers. The service is all about making people aware of local resources and opportunities, such as time, money or product surplus, to create a positive impact in the community.

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

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

Find presentations, recordings and resources from past forums here

Got an item for the e-bulletin?

Ways to Get Involved

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

Registered Charity Number 880216. Company Limited by Guarantee registered in England No: 2388150. Registered Office: Belmont Street, London, NW1 8HF

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VAC e-bulletin 12th April 2024

by Duncan Cordy12 April 202412 April 2024

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Cultural Advocacy Project

This project is run jointly with Mind in Camden, who love the beautiful borough of Camden with all its opportunities, vibrancy and community as much as we do, but also want to make sure that the health inequalities in the borough don’t prevent some of the most vulnerable members of our community receiving the mental health support that they need.

Our cultural advocacy project works with communities in Camden to strengthen awareness of mental health support facilities and build relationships between partner organisations and our own peer support groups. It’s really important to us that we reach people who would benefit from this service, so if you or someone you know is looking for support, you can find out more information and share it here.

NEW – Safeguarding Training

Protecting Children in the Community 24th April, 10.00am – 12.30pm, & May 7th, 10:00am – 11.45 am
Dementia Awareness 25th April, 10.30am – 11.30am
Budgeting and Financial Planning 30th April, 9.30am – 4pm
Voluntary sector organisational structures; what’s right for you? 15th May, 10.00am – 12.00pm

More details in the Events and Training section

“Halo effect” can blind charities to unethical behaviour
Charitable organisations are prone to developing habits of ignoring unethical behaviour and diminished transparency due to a psychological phenomenon known as the “Halo effect”. A new report from lead researcher Dr Isabel de Bruin at the Rotterdam school of Management, has found that behaviours such as financial malpractice, racism and abuse is often excused or justified by those who have a strong belief in the moral superiority of their cause over all else.

British Muslims donate four times the national average
A new report from Consultancy Blue State has found that donations from British Muslims are four times the amount of the wider UK population, £708 per year compared to £165 for the average Brit. The study also showed that Muslims in the UK are more likely to raise money via community events and via personal challenges, for example running marathons.

Policy change on charities that ignore opt-out requests
The Fundraising Regulator has changed the way they report on charities that fail to implement requests from the public to opt-out of marketing communications. Previously, all groups who failed to act on just one such request would automatically be named on the regulator’s website, but it has been decided that a more appropriate threshold for public naming and shaming will now rise to three ignored requests.

UK-German Connection funds for schools & youth groups
UK-German Connection Instant Impact Grants are now available to support UK schools and youth groups planning visits to their counterparts in Germany this summer. The scheme is jointly funded and governed by the UK and German governments, British Council, and the Pädagogischer Austauschdienst, offering a dedicated linking service and funding opportunities for bilateral activities. Applications must be submitted at least six weeks before the planned visit.

Adult Social Care Training and Development Fund
Adult social care employers in England can claim varying levels of reimbursement for staff training costs. The government has issued guidance details for the programme, ahead of the launch of a digital online claims service later this year. The aim is to enable the ASC workforce and ASC employers to start planning their training and development for the financial year 2024 to 2025.

Mayor of London’s VRU Innovation fund
The Mayor of London’s Violence Reduction Unit is offering grants to community-led organisations and groups across London to test new approaches and ideas to support vulnerable Londoners who are either at risk or have been involved in violence. This round of funding will support organisations with online networking/ collaboration, capacity-building and other tools.

Paul Hamlyn Foundation’s Arts Fund
Not-for-profit cultural organisations working at the intersection of art and social change within the UK can apply for grants from the Arts fund, which supports the long-term development and transformation of these organisations as a route towards social justice and sustainability.

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

Upcoming safeguarding training
For all VCS organisations, supplementary, faith schools and groups delivering services to under 18’s in the borough.
In partnership with Camden’s Safeguarding Children’s Partnership:

Protecting Children in the Community 24th April, 10.00am – 12.30pm, & May 7th, 10:00am – 11.45 am
Dementia Awareness Workshop 25th April, 10.30am – 12pm
Budgeting and Financial Planning 30th April, 9.30am – 4pm
Voluntary sector organisational structures; what’s right for you? 15th May, 10.00am – 12.00pm

OTHER EVENTS

Wellbeing and Cancer Awareness workshop
Healthwatch Camden and Camden Disability Action are holding a workshop with important information on wellbeing and cancer awareness. Attendees will hear from a doctor about the signs and symptoms of cancer, as well as the experiences of a disabled person in fighting cancer. You can register for the event here, or email tom@camdendisabilityaction.org.uk.
Tuesday 23rd April, Greenwood Centre, Kentish Town, NW5 1LB.

Survivors Can Shine Ambassadors for Change event
Taking place on Hampstead Heath on Saturday 25th May, the Ambassadors for Change Community Event is bringing children, young people and the wider community together in collective strength in a positive movement for change. The day will be filmed as part of the documentary, and will include musical performances, food, games, activities and prizes. Register here and contact Lily if you want to volunteer or host a stall.

VCC Spring Fair and Volunteering Workshop
Volunteer Centre Camden are hosting two volunteering related events over the next couple of weeks. The first, on Wednesday 17th April, is their Camden and Islington Spring 24 Volunteering Fai r, an in-person event in Kings Cross where you can meet groups recruiting volunteers. Then on Wednesday 24th April, they are holding essential training for volunteer managers on how build volunteering in a strategic way that adds significant value to their mission, exploring the societal, economic, and technological environment that affects volunteering and trends that should be taken into account.

Google’s Community Affairs Q1 Community training day
This is a regular opportunity for local organisations to get together at Google King’s Cross office for a networking lunch, skills training and a chance to share lessons learned from community leaders. Register here before 29th April.
Thursday 9th May, Google, 6 Pancras Square, N1C 4AG

YCF & Beat webinar on understanding eating disorders
Young Camden Foundation are hosting a webinar along with Beat, the UK’s eating disorder charity, which aims to give attendees a proper understanding of the three major eating disorders. The webinar will also look at risk factors, early warning signs and learn how best to support someone with an eating disorder. You can book tickets here.
Tuesday 16th April, online.

Community Leadership Programme at Birkbeck University
Community Leadership returns to Camden! Would you like to further your skills in the area of community leadership, community development and network with others? Taught by tutors from Birkbeck, these workshops aim to help participants gain skills, knowledge and confidence. Learn more or sign up here.
Starts: 24 April 2024

Chair at Flourishing Lives
Flourishing Lives is the only London-wide body dedicated to older people, the arts and wellbeing. The organisation helps transform older people’s lives, by promoting community, expression, access and lifelong learning through engagement with the arts. They are looking for an enthusiastic Chair to help take their work forward. Full job description here.
Application deadline: 14th April

West Hampstead Jester Festival 2024 – volunteers needed
The annual Fortune Green Jester Festival takes place on July 6th, and they are looking for volunteers who can help local residents who organise the festival. Responsibilities include traffic management, setting up gazebos, selling raffle tickets, litter control and stewarding. Volunteers will get a free Jester T-shirt and a tabard and clipboard if needed! Contact mrj@mikejennings.co.uk with any queries, and have a look at last year’s festival.

Volunteers needed to lead Camden reading group
The Reader is a project put together by Camden Libraries for the visually impaired, which brings people together by reading stories and poems aloud. They are looking for volunteers to lead the reading group in Pancras Square library. The volunteers will receive in-depth training and support from the community of reader leaders. Contact filizemre@thereader.org.uk to find out more.

Charity Excellence AI Ethics & Governance Framework
Amid new recommendations from the Charity Commission that charities should consider developing internal AI policies, Charity Excellence have released a framework for managing the ethical challenges of using AI. This resource can be used to help create a new policy for your organisation, or as a tool for evaluating your existing policies. You can find the framework here, along with many other helpful resources for navigating AI.

Central YMCA launch two new initaitives
Project Move
Project Move focuses on empowering individuals to lead healthier lives, improve their physical fitness, and enhance their overall well-being. From swimming lessons to yoga, dance, and basketball, there are a variety of engaging sessions for young people no matter which type of movement they enjoy. If you’re interested in hearing more about this work or know someone who might be, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Lucia Lovine.
Y’s Girls Project
Central YMCA is launching the Y’s Girls Project in London, where girls between the ages of 9 and 14 will be paired with a trained mentor who will work with them to gain confidence, explore their interests, and learn new things in an informal and fun environment, and it opens opportunities for the girls to try new things that they might not get the chance to do otherwise. If you would like to learn more about the Y’s Girls Project or you’re interested in becoming a mentor or mentee, please reach out to Allison Bishop.

Camden Adult Community Learning – Digital skills classes
Camden Adult Community Learning runs free digital skills classes in community venues throughout Camden and online. You can enrol now for new courses, including:

•   Digital Portrait Photography at the recently-opened Euston Skills Centre and Swiss Cottage Library
•   Essential Digital Skills Qualification (EDSQ) at Training Link
•   Online courses in Design with Canva, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint & Digital Safety
•   Child Online Safety Workshops for Camden Parents

For a full list of courses see the Course Guide or visit the online enrolment page. You can also enrol in person on Thursday 18 April, at the Adult Learning Centre, Netley Campus, 74 Stanhope Street, NW1 3EX.

Could your charity get discounted energy?

Utility Aid has launched the National Charity Tender to help voluntary organisations get discounted energy through Group Energy Purchasing. Their offer is available for not for profit groups so you can get in touch to find out if this is the right option for your organisation.

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