PAVS Funding Fair Queens Hall, Narberth 10 – 4pm Tuesday 5th October 2010 This year the PAVS Funding Fair will be held on 5th October 2010 at the Queens Hall in Narberth. The ever popular event will be lining up a selection of the most prominent local and national funders. This is always an excellent opportunity for voluntary and community groups to come along and find out more about the different pots of funding available and talk to funders about possible projects and applications. The funders will be available throughout the day at exhibition stands in the main hall along with an interesting programme of speakers that is currently being finalised. The afternoon session will include a 2-hour seminar organised by the Pembrokeshire Local Service Board, which will give an overview of the challenges presented by proposed cuts in public expenditure and the potential opportunities for the sector to play a part in public service re-design and delivery. Discussing prospective applications with the funders helps to save time for applicants and funders, as well as ensuring that applications are well-targeted. So come along, speak to the funders and make your applications count! If you would like to reserve a place then please call PAVS on (01437) 769 422 or e-mail development@pavs.org.uk and you will be sent further details. Keep an eye on the PAVS website – www.pavs.org.uk – where further details will be posted once they have been confirmed. The deadline for the next issue is: Friday 15 October 2010 Email to:enquiries@pavs.org.uk
Issue 51 Rhif 51
August 2010 Awst 2010
Contents Foreword Circuit Riders Representation and Joint Working Third Sector News Charity News Funding News Training Volunteering News from Members
2 5 6 8 9 15 28 26 29
Foreword Following on from the article in the Spring newsletter, I am delighted to formally announce the appointment of John Gossage to the post of Vice Chair of the PAVS Board. John has a strong background in finance and business planning, and direct experience of setting up social enterprises.
Convergence programme through the Welsh Assembly Government, was jointly organised by the four Local Authorities and four County Voluntary Councils across Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, Swansea and Neath Port Talbot. In addition to the Funding Fair, the event provided a full programme of speakers and workshops on the related themes of sustainable funding, social enterprise and collaborative working. The annual Pembrokeshire Funding Fair, organised by PAVS, will take place on Tuesday 5th October 2010 – see the Funding section of the newsletter for more information.
John is the third and final appointment to the PAVS Trustee Board through an open recruitment process, carried out by the elected members of the Board. The two appointments made previously were Ian Hunter (Chair) and Bernie Scourfield (Trustee with Special Responsibility for Finance). John’s appointment brings the Board to full strength with 10 members. Cllr Sian James (Cabinet member with responsibility for the voluntary sector) also sits on the Board in an advisory capacity, and it is likely that a similar invitation will be extended to other strategic partners (notably the Health Board) in future.
Carers’ Day took place on 17th June as part of a programme of events organised for National Carers’ Week. The event took place in Haverfordwest and was attended by unpaid carers from across the County. Carers were treated to a range of complementary therapies and treatments, but the most popular part of the day was the Carers’ Forum panel session in the afternoon. This provided carers with an opportunity to discuss issues with the Director of Social Care/County Director for Health and Cllr Sian James (Carers’ Champion on the Cabinet) and key staff from within the Directorate of Social Care.
Looking back over the past couple of months, June stands out as being particularly busy, with PAVS being involved in organising three major third sector events. First up was the Pembrokeshire Volunteer of the Year Award ceremony which took place on 3rd June as part of National Volunteers Week. This is now a firm favourite in the annual calendar of events and, as ever, was extremely well attended. Please see the colour supplement included in this newsletter for a full report and photographs of the award winners. Once again, the event recognised the vital role played by volunteers in our communities and celebrated the extraordinary voluntary efforts of individuals and groups. I was lucky enough to be invited to “MC” the event – it is definitely one of the most rewarding jobs I am asked to do as Chief Officer of PAVS!
There is some useful information in this newsletter on steps to take if a voluntary organisation finds itself in financial difficulties. There is considerable uncertainty at the moment about the future of public funding and nothing more certain will be known until the end of the year, once the autumn comprehensive spending review has taken place. It was agreed at the recent meeting of the Voluntary Sector Liaison Group that there should be early dialogue between statutory partners and the third sector, so that potential problems with service delivery can be identified and, hopefully, resolved. The key message is that now is not the time to enter into any new long-term commitments if your forward budget relies heavily on core funding from statutory partners. It is understood that Pembrokeshire County Council will be looking to achieve savings over a four-year period but there
The Regional Funding Fair on 7th June at Ffos Las Racecourse was attended by approximately 1300 people from voluntary and community groups across the South West Wales region. This event, which was part funded by the EU’s 2
Foreword is every chance that WAG funding streams (some and experience drawn from the voluntary, public and private sectors. The three appointed of which are distributed by the Local Authority) Trustees are subject to an annual performance may be withdrawn as early as April next year. management review carried out by the elected Board members. However, Trustees are in PAVS will continue to represent the interests of favour of adopting a self-assessment process the third sector during the difficult times that lie to monitor the contribution and performance of ahead, but we can’t help if we don’t know, so the whole Board, and options are currently being please tell us sooner rather than later if you are considered. worried about the future and need support. The first and most important task for the Board is to develop new strategic and business plans for the Association and a working group has been established for this purpose. In addition, reviews are taking place of existing policies and procedures, including financial controls and regulations, to ensure that PAVS remains wellgoverned and “fit for purpose” into the future.
This edition of Pembrokeshire Voice contains the usual mix of interesting and informative articles, which I hope you will find useful. Happy reading! Sue Leonard - PAVS Chief Officer
PAVS Trustees leading the way Appointed Trustees Ian Hunter (Chair right), John Gossage (Vice Chair, left) and Bernie Scourfield (Trustee with Special Responsibility for Finance, centre) welcome the opportunity to work with a strong team of elected Trustees to develop a new strategy and business plan for PAVS.
To kick-start the strategic planning process, PAVS Trustees took advantage of an opportunity presented to them by Business in the Community to provide a “strategic challenge” to 10 senior managers from the Wales Audit Office (WAO) as part of their Management Development Programme. The team of managers spent a whole day at PAVS at the end of June following three “channels of inquiry” around potential sustainable business models; key working relationships and structures, and statutory partnerships. They collected evidence through various focus groups and interviews with key stakeholders, either face-to-face, on the telephone or via SKYPE video conferencing. A full feedback session has been planned for all staff and trustees later on this month. The initial feedback highlighted some interesting issues which will certainly be helpful both in drawing up a long term strategy, and developing a business plan/work programme. Further consultation will take place with our members, the wider third sector and other stakeholders to check out the recommendations emerging from the WAO report, and to help us set a strategy that will deliver maximum benefit to third sector organisations in Pembrokeshire.
The Trustees who were nominated and elected by the PAVS membership at the AGM in January are: Martin Bell; Chris Blakemore; Rod Bowen; Dilys Fletcher; Michael Odlin; Simon Preddy and Beryl Thomas-Cleaver. As Cabinet member with responsibility for the voluntary sector, Cllr Sian James also sits on the PAVS Board in an advisory capacity. Collectively, PAVS Trustees bring to the Board a wide range of skills, knowledge, expertise 3
Foreword Future Jobs Fund The Future Jobs Fund is a national initiative funded by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) providing unemployed young people between the ages of 18-24 with a job, work experience or training lasting at least 6 months. In Pembrokeshire, the contract is managed by Futureworks (Pembrokeshire County Council). Futureworks maintains a register of job/work experience opportunities and identifies potential candidates for the vacancies that exist. Most importantly, they also provide an element of “post placement” support and training to ensure that the young person is able to get the best out of the job opportunity. There is no charge to the host organisation – Pembrokeshire County Council employs the young person and covers all salary and related costs – but clearly there is a need to provide line management support, on-the-job training and supervision.
Approximately 15 third sector groups have already benefited from hosting a work placement, with several more applications “in the pipeline” but there are still opportunities available. The scheme has proved very successful in Pembrokeshire, with 76% of the participants securing longer-term employment following completion of the placement period. Sadly, the DWP has announced that the programme will cease from April next year and we await details of the new Work Programme, which is likely to focus more on apprenticeships. This is your last chance to benefit from the Future Jobs Fund – so act now! If your organisation would like to host a work placement, contact Futureworks on 01437 776437 or email futureworks@pembrokeshire.gov.uk
Futureworks hold a contract for 160 work placements, with around 32 of these targeted specifically at third sector organisations.
Hot Desk Space Confidential meeting rooms of various sizes are also available to book at low cost.
Does your organisation need a desk, telephone and access to the internet on a regular basis each week? Maybe this is needed for just a few hours or maybe for several days. If so, PAVS may be able to help you.
Our rates are competitive and inclusive of heating, lighting and cleaning costs. If you would like to know more, please contact Sue JamesDavies, Senior Administrative Officer at PAVS, on 01437 769422 between 10am and 3pm any weekday.
Renting office accommodation can be very expensive and can eat into the valuable funds groups/organisations have available for their work. PAVS has accessible ‘Hot Desk’ space available from 9am to 5pm most weekdays (not weekends). Hot desking means that the space is shared with other part-time users and a ‘clear desk’ policy is in operation. We also have accessible dedicated desk space available for full time use where the space is solely for use by your group or organisation.
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ICT To Tweet or Not To Tweet From a fledgling tech tool to a high soaring information source, Twitter has boomed in the past few years in the UK to become one of the best ways to get up-to-the-minute, relevant and engaging news and views to help us in our work.
Leaders For groups with an interested membership, client or supporter base, Twitter is a great way to update and inform stakeholders. For instance, the Wildlife Trust S & W Wales (twitter.com/ WTSWW) tweet about what’s happening in the local wildlife world. The potential is vast: an asthma group updating members on the daily pollen count, carers communicating great ideas, and school clubs announcing new activities. So fly the nest and take your first steps into Twitter, and let us know when you have so we can follow your news. Happy tweeting!
Twitter (www.twitter.com) is a ‘micro-blogging’ tool which allows users to publish messages of 140 characters, or ‘Tweets’, to the people who are interested. The messages range from the dull to the obscure to the fun, fascinating and factual – and it’s the fun, fascinating and factual that voluntary and community groups should aim for. Followers Groups can choose to follow tweets from people and organisations most relevant to them. You could instantly find out about new funding sources from UKFundraising (twitter.com/ ukfundraising) or hear the latest news from a national body like WCVA (twitter.com/WalesCVA). You can even see what the Volunteering Pembs Team are up to at twitter.com/volpembs without having to register with Twitter.
If you’d like support setting up an account then contact the PAVS Communities 2.0 Circuit Riders on 01437 771197 or email sue.blantern@pavs. org.uk
Silver Surfers Success On Friday 21st May, PAVS Communities 2.0 team held a Silver Surfers open day at Pembroke 21C. The drop in day was all about helping older people in our county “Get More from the Internet”. Twelve Silver Surfers came to explore their passions on the web. We helped them face their fears and take their first steps online, find replacement car parts on eBay, and even hunt down parish maps for their local church group. Some people used Skype to video call friends, family and work for free. And we also showed people how to use the Nintendo Wii not only for playing games but to surf the web and watch BBC iPlayer.
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ICT Our photos from the event are available on the photo sharing site Flickr at http://bit.ly/aWhToG. If your organisation would like to learn how to make better use of technology then contact the team on 01437 771197 or email sue.blantern@pavs.org.uk.
Representation and Joint Working Shaping Up for the Future: Health and Social Care Services sector had recently brought an item on current work in the Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University LHB area led by the third sector member, the three CVCs and their local health and social care facilitators giving a structured sector ready to work with the LHB and enable macrocoordination with micro-delivery at the very local level in communities. The Minister saw this as leading development work on infrastructure for the rest of the sector, together with progressing the complementary work on citizen engagement. The Minister also agreed to the Welsh Assembly Government issuing immediate good practice guidance to the LHBs on local compacts with the third sector, supporting a strong and effective working relationship with the third sector; with the Minister expecting one compact per LHB.
The third sector met, under the auspices of the Voluntary Sector Scheme, with the Minister for Health and Social Services, Edwina Hart, AM OStJ MBE on 7 June. The meeting focused on the impact of the coming funding cuts on services, together with the demands on services; and the role the third sector will crucially increasingly play in service delivery. The third sector underlined to the Minister and Paul Williams, Director General Health and Social Services, Welsh Assembly Government, the importance of the third sector support infrastructure in health and social care, in giving the capacity to enable working at the national, LHB and local areas to maximize the third sector’s contribution in health and social care. The Minister acknowledged this, referring to her National Advisory Board, where the third
Reporting back to the Minister on the experience of working with the LHBs to date, the third sector brought to the Minister’s attention, the 6
Representation and Joint Working together, first the third sector must understand the strains and stresses on the funding and have an overview’. The Minister also stated that the budget situation created opportunities for third sector service development, with the sector welcoming this forthcoming overview in assisting in forward planning and identifying areas to develop services. The Minister also asked that her department map the funding to the third sector, as it was acknowledged that there is no ready information on this, and that this information once produced should be used with the sector and the LHBs. Details of this important meeting with the Director for Finance, DHSS, will be circulated to the sector shortly so that you can attend.
disappointing failure in most LHB areas of a partnership approach to the Rural Health Plan’s recent Innovation Fund. The third sector is meeting with the Chair of the Rural Health Plan and the Welsh Assembly Government to seek solutions to improved future working for this programme on 19 July in Mid Wales. The Minister will be meeting shortly with WCVA, an LHB third sector member and CVC Chief Officer, and senior government officials to look at how LHB performance with the third sector to date and for the future, is monitored and evaluated in order to be centrally facilitated and supported. The third sector also reported back to the Minister on the third sector infrastructure in action, importantly delivering the recent recruitment of third sector representatives to the new CHCs, and the development of a Standards for Health Care toolkit for the third sector. The Minister acknowledged the large amount of work the third sector had given to the successful development of this toolkit,
The Ministerial group is also taking forward work on Violence against Women: Improving the response of Health Services in Primary, Community & Mental Health with the Minister. This will be worked on in the interim and brought back as a progress report to the next Ministerial meeting on 6 December.
Further to Assembly Government support for the third sector, the Minster, in response to a third sector paper requesting early and transparent dialogue on the departmental budget for 2011/12, is making her Director of Finance available for a presentation: ‘so that we can work collectively
If you would like a copy of any of the papers from the June Ministerial meeting or more information on any of the meetings items please contact Constance Adams, Senior Policy Officer WCVA, cadams@wcva.org.uk
Voluntary sector brokers, the first six months additional problems, for example low income, social isolation and unsuitable housing. In this situation extra support can make the difference between staying at home and having to be admitted to hospital or a care home. Social Services and the NHS are able to do a lot, but the voluntary sector really comes into it’s own in providing services that are not available through these agencies, and in a flexible way.
Since starting at PAVS in October of last year the voluntary sector brokers, Angela Phillips and Liz Roach have been busy finding out about the voluntary sector in Pembrokeshire. They work with health and social care staff as part of the new Complex Care Teams. So, what are Complex Care teams all about? These teams have been set up to help people with difficult or complex, long term health problems get the care they need to stay at home as long as possible. People dealing with poor health can sometimes have
The voluntary sector already provides some core services like hospice care, support for 7
Representation and Joint Working carers and meals on wheels. They also provide a huge range of other important services from youth clubs to wheelchair accessible transport and toe nail cutting to welfare benefits advice. Many of these services are provided free or at cost and can be delivered in a way that suits the client’s needs.
finance and form filling. If any groups out there would be interested in developing any of these services please get in touch. How do we access the Teams? People who are struggling to cope at home should approach the local authority for an assessment; if their situation requires it then they might be referred to a Complex Care Team. At the moment there is one team working in North Pembrokeshire but a team is to be set up in the South soon. Eventually it is hoped that there will be four teams across the whole county.
What are the Brokers doing? In the three months since starting to work with the teams, voluntary sector brokers have been able to help in at least 25 cases. Sometimes they have been able to give advice; sometimes a referral has been made. Fourteen different groups have had their services promoted in this way. As the broker’s knowledge of the sector grows they will be able to get the services that the voluntary sector delivers out to more and more of the people who need them.
What does this mean for my organisation? Expect a call from one of the Brokers, to have a chat or arrange a meeting, where they can find out what services your organisation can deliver, and make sure that PAVS have your correct contact details. They will also talk to you about how PAVS may be able to help you too. Alternatively, get in touch with Liz (for the North) or Angela (for the South) at PAVS on 01437 769422 to let us know about your organisation. We are hoping to speak to as many groups as possible, whether you provide services or are just a group that meets socially.
As well as advising about what is available, the brokers are also looking at services which would be useful but are not currently available – identifying the gaps. At present there appears to be significant need for gardening and handyman services. Access to facilities and services is also a problem, especially in the North of the county. Perhaps mobile services would be useful here. Some clients also need help with
Third Sector News Collaborative Communities Securing a sustainable future for Third Sector Organisations & Social Enterprises Our region has a flourishing Third Sector which contributes to our vibrant communities. We aim to secure its future through an exciting new programme of support to create sustainable organisations.
Pembrokeshire Association of Voluntary Services has joined up with the County Councils and County Voluntary Councils in Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, Swansea and Neath Port Talbot to form a unique partnership to combine resources for the success of the project. The partnership draws together expertise and experience to share best practice across the 8
Third Sector News Our locally based development officers will provide support in a wide range of areas such as: Developing business plans Legal structures Trading – moving away from grant dependency Market research and marketing plans Governance HR and good employment practice Assistance with premises Feasibility studies Financial management and budgeting Fundraising options and strategy Environmental sustainability Equal opportunities Tenders and procurement Please contact your local support team for further information. Two officers are based in PAVS - Vanessa John or Lorna Livock on (01437) 769 422 or e-mail development@pavs.org.uk and an officer is based in Pembrokeshire County Council – Kevin Doolin on (01437) 775537. Website: www.collaborativecommunities.org.uk
region. This project has been part-funded by the EU’s Convergence European Regional Development Fund through the Welsh Assembly Government The Collaborative Communities project will build on the excellent support already provided and offer advice and guidance in new areas such as: • New skills to manage your organisation • Ways to move from grants to trading • Development of Social Enterprise • Being enterprising Do you have an exciting idea for a project, organisation or a Social Enterprise, but need some help and advice to get started? Our team are ready to unlock this potential and help new ventures become a reality. Let us help you get those ideas off the ground. Secure Your Future Do you feel your organisation is ready to expand? Do you want to become more sustainable and generate new income streams? Would you like to increase your social impact or create more jobs?
Charity News
Commission warns of bogus telephone calls It is important to be clear that:
The Charity Commission has been made aware of a scam involving people being telephoned by individuals claiming to represent the Charity Commission. In the phone calls these individuals claim to be from the “debt collection department” of the Commission and they demand payments for various services and advertisements.
• Any call from someone claiming to work with or on behalf of the Charity Commission, and claiming any payment in a threatening way, is clearly bogus; • The Charity Commission does not charge for any of its services to charities; it does not get involved in debt collection either directly or through contracting third parties to do so, and nor does it collect debt on behalf of charities;
Some of the bogus calls have demanded payments of thousands of pounds for various services and advertisements. The Commission has been contacted by a number of people who have received calls of this nature and has already reported this matter to the police. 9
Charity News Revised guidance for charities
You should immediately report these sorts of incidents to the police, and the Charity Commission would also like to be informed where its name is being used for suspected fraudulent purposes.
In light of the difficult economic times that most charities are facing now, the Charity Commission has published four updated sets of financial guidance for charities and their advisers covering risk management; financial difficulties and insolvency; reserves and internal financial controls. The four sets of guidance cover the main points of financial management, planning and control in the context of charity law and good practice are: • Charities and Risk Management (CC26) • Financial Difficulties and Insolvency (CC12) • Charities and Reserves (CC19) • Internal Financial Controls (CC8)
General advice to charities is: When you speak to any member of staff from the Commission they will always be prepared to give their name, telephone number and email address; Commission email addresses always end with the domain name charitycommission.gsi.gov.uk; Check the number of any suspect caller against the direct dial telephone codes for the Commission’s offices; these are London 0207 674…, Liverpool 0151 703…, Taunton 01823 345… , Newport 01633 2255…
The Commission’s latest Economic Survey of
New Look for Charity Commission website Charities showed that 47% of charities thought
the sector would feel the effects of the recession later than the private and public sectors, and take longer to recover. This guidance, available on the Commission’s website, is the latest in a number of steps taken by the Commission to support charities through the downturn and follows the publication of the ‘Big Board Talk - 15 questions all charities need to ask’ and their four Economic Surveys of Charities.
The Charity Commission has recently updated its website www.charitycommission.gov.uk , in consultation with charities, the public and other users. They are keen to hear any feedback, suggestions or improvements to make the online services better for charities to use. They have improved the range of online systems in order to make it easier, faster and more convenient for charities to deal with the Commission online. Charity registration applications submitted on line are processed on average 50% faster than a paper application – now 2/3 of all new charities apply to register online.
Andrew Hind, Chief Executive of the Charity Commission said: “Careful management of risks, strong internal financial controls and a clear reserves policy form the cornerstone of a well managed charity. At a time when many charities are reviewing their financial and risk management, it is important that they have the right tools to be able to mitigate risk, overcome financial difficulties and to be clear about how to manage reserves and establish internal financial controls. In an uncertain economic climate, it is more important than ever for charities to review and actively manage the risks they face. Regardless of a charity’s size, this revised guidance is something for all trustees to read.”
They also provide a wide range of publications and guidance for charities; they are downloadable for free from the website. However they will always provide one hardcopy per publication upon request. Another new feature is the email alerts service, which lets you know whenever the Commission issues any new guidance or announces any changes. Details of how to sign up to receive this service are on their website. 10
Charity News Updates include a new risk grid (Charities and Risk Management); guidance on controls over internet banking and safeguards against fraud and financial crime (Internal Financial Controls); a checklist of key questions for trustees to establish their charity’s financial position (Financial Difficulties and Insolvency) and guidance on setting reserves in the context of financial and risk management (Charities and Reserves).
or not the charity has permanent endowment (property that cannot be spent as income). It is likely that your charity will fall within one of the following categories: a. The charity is also a company. A charitable company has an automatic right to spend all of its assets on its purposes. Once this has been done, the charity can be dissolved and removed from the Companies House register.
They have also published updated guidance on fundraising for charities. (Charities and Fundraising) is for use by charities to help them carry out fundraising activities that comply with both legal requirements and best practice.
b. The charity is unincorporated and there is a dissolution clause in the governing document. If there is a clause in the governing document that states how the charity is to be wound up and what should happen to the remaining assets, the trustees must follow it.
Although fundraising is self-regulated by the sector, there are elements of it that are subject to legal and regulatory requirements. For example, charities must ensure that all funds are used for the purposes for which they were raised. This guidance sets out where specific requirements apply on how to fundraise. It also includes more detail on risk management of fundraising and advice for trustees on what to consider when choosing fundraising methods. The guidance also provides advice on common fundraising issues that charity trustees may face.
c. The charity is unincorporated, there is no dissolution clause in the governing document and no permanent endowment. If there is no specific dissolution clause but all the charity’s assets are expendable, the trustees may spend all the remaining assets on the charity’s purposes. Alternatively, the trustees may be able to transfer the assets to another charity with similar purposes. d. The charity is unincorporated, there is no dissolution clause in the governing document and there is permanent endowment.
What to do when winding up a charity As funding and donations decrease and pressure on resources grows, it’s not surprising that some trustees are facing the difficult decision to bring their charity’s work to an end.
If a charity has permanent endowment, it cannot be wound up until that permanent endowment is dealt with. The trustees could seek approval from the Charity Commission to spend the permanent endowment or they could transfer it to another charity with similar purposes. Alternatively, if the trustees wanted to wind up because they couldn’t fulfil the current purposes, they could consider changing them.
If the trustees do decide to wind up the charity, there are a number of steps they must follow to ensure it is done properly. This is important as, even after a charity has dissolved, the former trustees remain responsible for decisions taken whilst in office. Step 1 – Establish how your charity can be wound up This will depend on what kind of charity it is, what it says in the governing document and whether 11
Step 2 – Ensure your charity is removed from the Register Trustees of registered charities have a legal duty
Charity News books, invoices and receipts) to be kept for: • at least three years after they were made for a charitable company; or • at least six years after they were made for an unincorporated charity.
to inform the Charity Commission if the charity ceases to exist. The most straightforward way to do this is to complete the online dissolution form available on the Commission’s website: www.charitycommission.gov.uk/forms/dissolution Step 3 – Maintain accounting records Trustees should ensure that all debts and liabilities are cleared before spending remaining assets and winding up. After a charity has been dissolved, the trustees must arrange for its accounting books and records (including cash
If your charity is considering winding up, PAVS Development Staff can support you through the dissolution process or help you to explore other options for your organisation .
New Coalition Government and the Sector Vetting and Barring Scheme Registration Halted You may now be aware that the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) registration stage of the Vetting and Barring Scheme (VBS) has been halted to allow the government to remodel the scheme back to proportionate, common sense levels. The government recognises that many businesses, community groups and individuals see the current scheme as disproportionate and overly burdensome, and that it unduly infringes on civil liberties.
was due to start on 26 July. This registration has now been stopped. The timing and scope of requirements on individuals to register with the Scheme will depend on the outcome of the review. Existing arrangements under the Scheme which will continue include the following:
The Home Secretary Theresa May said that the safety of children and vulnerable adults is of ‘paramount importance to the new government’, but that a measured approach is vital. She continued, ‘We’ve listened to the criticisms and will respond with a scheme that has been fundamentally remodelled. Vulnerable groups must be properly protected in a way that is proportionate and sensible. The redrawing of the VBS will ensure this happens’. The VBS aims to protect children and vulnerable adults by stopping those who pose a known risk from working with them. It was designed as a response to the Bichard Inquiry into the Soham murders by Ian Huntley, which called for better information sharing by police and vetting organisations.
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since January 2009, the ISA has been making independent barring decisions. It will continue to maintain two constantly updated lists, one for those barred from working with children, the other for those barred from working with vulnerable adults. These have replaced the three previous barring lists (POVA, POCA and List 99)
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existing requirements concerning Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) and Access Northern Ireland checks will remain in place, and those entitled to such checks can continue to apply for them
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employers are still legally obliged to refer information to the ISA if they have moved or removed an individual because they have harmed or there is a risk of harm to a member of a vulnerable group.
The scope of the remodelling process – to be co-ordinated by the Home Office in partnership with Department of Health and Department for Education – is currently being finalised and will be announced shortly.
Voluntary registration with the VBS for new employees and job-movers working or volunteering with children and vulnerable adults 12
New Coalition Government and the Sector More than 66,000 employers, charities and voluntary groups are now being informed directly of the change. Up-to-date information is available for organisations and individuals on the WCVA’s Criminal Records Unit website www.wcva-cru.org.uk ; or the VBS sections on the government websites www.direct.gov.uk or www.businesslink.gov.uk.
The Coalition Government plans to ‘reduce employment and workplace laws, for employers and employees, to ensure they maximize flexibility for both parties while protecting fairness and providing a competitive environment required for enterprise to thrive’. A general direction has been set but specific details are few at present.
What’s occurring at the Assembly? How might it affect you?
Queen’s Speech and government plans: statements and speculation
The legislative capability of the Assembly will continue to grow. Voluntary organisations need to be aware of how they are regulated by the Assembly. To enable you keep up to date with what’s happening at the National Assembly for Wales the WCVA’s Voices for Change Cymru provides a free monitoring service.
Elements of the Queen’s speech and the future plans of the Coalition Government related directly to the third sector and could affect voluntary sector organisations and the way they work. The role of the social enterprises, charities and cooperatives in public services is to be enhanced under the Coalition Government. The Coalition Government believes that a radical reform of public services is required. One way of meeting this challenge would be through social enterprises, charities and cooperatives. The Coalition Government acknowledges that they reach and engage communities, understand need and pioneer approaches which have social, environmental and economic impact.
Visit their website www.voicesforchangecymru. org.uk to see what’s occurring.
Trustees WCVA Trustee Conference WCVA has been working with the network of County Voluntary Councils across Wales (including PAVS) to plan the content of this year’s Trustee Conference by identifying subject areas where Trustees have said they need more support and advice.
The Coalition Government intends to open up the public service market, identify barriers to involvement and introduce measures to overcome those barriers. Further details will be available from the Coalition Government in the Autumn.
A number of topics have been identified so far including data/information sharing protocols such as WASPI (Wales Accord on the Sharing of Personal Information); Community Interest Companies and a workshop on public law remedies. If you have any suggestions for issues to be included in the Conference, please e-mail legalservices@wcva.org.uk All suggestions will be considered.
The Coalition Government aims to reduce the cost of bureaucracy and the number of public bodies. Coalition Government civil service recruitment has been frozen. There are fears that the Charitable Incorporated Organisation may not become available to the third sector as the Charity Commission will not have sufficient resources to cope with the introduction of this new entity.
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Trustees Trustee Recruitment for Small Organisations It is recognised that trustee recruitment can be challenging for small organisations that have limited resources. NCVO has developed an on line resource designed to help voluntary groups find, recruit, induct and keep trustees.
The resource is split into six sections. These sections can be used independently but work well as a whole process. 1. Are you ready to recruit? 2. Who are you looking for? 3. Attracting new trustees 4. Selection and appointment of new trustees 5. How to welcome your new trustees 6. What next?
For the purposes of the resource ‘trustee recruitment’ also refers to the recruitment of management committee members, members of the committee, council members, and executive committee members. No matter what title your organisation gives them, this resource is intended to help you recruit new members of the governing body.
The resource is available on the NCVO’s website: www.ncvo-vol.org.uk/ trusteerecruitmentforsmallorganisations
Volunteering Pembrokeshire – PAVS’ Volunteer Centre – can help with trustee recruitment by advertising trustee vacancies. Contact Caroline Graham at PAVS to register your trustee vacancy as a volunteer opportunity. Pembrokeshire Trustee Network
The on-line PAVS Pembrokeshire Trustee Network keeps voluntary sector organisations within the county up-to-date with trustee and govenance issues that may affect them. Members will receive a regular electronic briefing which contains information about recent developments that affect their role as Trustees. The briefing also provides an opportunity for members to raise any concerns or issues they may have. To join this free e-mail network contact Vanessa John on 01437 769422 or e-mail vanessa.john@pavs.org.uk
Convergence Funding Sign up to Pembrokeshire County Council’s EU Funding updates
Tendering Opportunities
All the latest tendering opportunities are posted on the PAVS website
If you are interested in receiving regular Convergence funding updates then sign up to receive the e-mail bulletins from Pembrokeshire County Council’s European Funding Team. To sign up please e-mail Charlotte Morgan on Charlotte.Morgan@pembrokeshire.gov.uk
Structural Funds - the story so far June 2010
At the mid-point of the 2007-13 European Structural Funds programme, WCVA has produced a supplement that looks at the experience of the third sector and profiles how organisations are benefiting from Europeanfunded projects. Follow the link from the PAVS website to read more. www.pavs.org.uk/funding/convergence
Successful EU project summaries
The PAVS website holds the latest project summaries which give details of the different projects that have been funded locally through Convergence and the progress made to date. 14
National Volunteers Weeks June 2010 The event took place at the Pavilion Hall, Withybush, where over 170 people attended a very successful and vibrant volunteering celebration. Over 15 voluntary organisations had exhibitions stands to advertise their volunteering opportunities to potential volunteers. Throughout the day, a variety of therapists including Anne Davenport, offered a choice of therapies to volunteers as a thank you for all their voluntary work throughout the year for a range of organisations across the county. Following a delicious lunch, the Pembrokeshire Volunteer Awards 2010 Ceremony took place with many awards being given to very deserving recipients for their commitment and dedication in voluntary action in Pembrokeshire. The High Sheriff of Dyfed, David Pryse Lloyd kindly presented all of the awards to the winners (see photo gallery). If you would like to find out more about volunteering and get involved, please call Caroline Graham at PAVS on 01437 769422 or email volunteering@pavs.org.uk.
Every year National Volunteers Week is celebrated in the first week of June, giving organisations in the voluntary sector the opportunity to say ‘thank you‘ to their volunteers for their hard work and dedication. PAVS Volunteering Pembrokeshire organised a celebration event during Volunteers Week to promote and pay tribute to volunteers who carry out volunteering in Pembrokeshire.
Sue Leonard PAVS Cheif Officer, David Pryse Lloyd, High Sheriff of Dyfed and Ian Hunter, PAVS Chair of Trustees
PAVS staff who organised the event Volunteers looking for new opportunities amongst the stands
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Volunteering Awards 2010
Anny Stanyard winner of the Pembrokeshire over 25 Volunteering award
Nathan Doran winner of the Wales Volunteeer of the Year under 25’s Pat Smith winner of the Mary Sigley Volunteering award
Nicholas Wilson winner of the Pembrokeshire under 25 Volunteering award
Tracey Price receiving an award on behalf of Pembrokeshire Mind Resource Centre
Ralph Dunbar receiving his Pembrokeshire Trustee and Over 25 Volunteering award
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Volunteering Awards 2010 PATCH Volunteers receiving their Under 25 Group award
PATCH Volunteers receiving their Over 25 Group award
High Sheriff with RSVP Knitting Circle Volunteers Pembrokeshire Samaritans winner of the Pembrokeshire over 25 Group award
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Millennium Volunteers Awards 2010 Volunteering Pembrokeshire is pleased to announce that a number of young people from Pembrokeshire have achieved Millennium Volunteers (MV) awards over the last year. Some of our local young volunteers were able to attend PAVS’ Volunteer’s Week Celebration event in June to receive their certificates. Congratulations to all of the following on their achievements: 50 hours certificates: Lisa Stevens, PATCH Lynsey Salmon, PATCH Glen Conbeer, Tenby Cubs and Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Abigail Chapman, ‘Cook-It!’ Project, Haverfordwest VC School and Mosaic Community Café, Neyland 100 hours certificates: Sadie Matthews and Shannon Roche, both from Neyland Youth Centre.
Sadie Matthews receiving her 100 hours MV certificate
200 hours certificates: James Matharu - Torch Theatre, Esteam, Stroke Association AND Green Links! Jonathan Evans, Paul Sartori Foundation Cathy Yau, Cancer Research Shop Millennium Volunteers is a UK wide initiative designed to promote and recognise volunteering amongst young people aged 16 to 25. The hours put into volunteering are counted and accredited and certificates are awarded for 50, 100 and 200 hours of volunteering - the 200 hours certificate is signed by the First Minister of the Welsh Assembly Government. Certificates can be included in Records of Achievement and on CVs, and the scheme is increasingly recognised by further and higher education institutions and employers. MV can also pay volunteer’s expenses where necessary. PAVS Volunteering Pembrokeshire is the Local Co-ordinating Partner (LCP) for Millennium Volunteers in Pembrokeshire. For more information please contact Jean Morris on 01437 769422 or email jean.morris@pavs.org.uk.
Jonathon Evans receiving his 200 hours MV certificate 18
Convergence Funding
Funding News The Institute of Fundraising Code of Practice on telephone fundraising
Structural Funds Programme update By 15 May 2010, 165 projects had been approved, representing a total investment of over £2.4bn (EU funds of over £1.2bn) across Wales. Some £735m (30%) is being invested in business, over £1.1bn (44%) in people and over £605m (25%) for community regeneration, the environment and transport. EU projects have assisted over 106,370 participants, of whom10,390 have been helped into work and 36,120 supported to gain qualifications; while 3,625 jobs and 1,000 new enterprises have been created, and 2,175 enterprises assisted.
The new Code of Practice on telephone fundraising, published by the Institute of Fundraising (IOF) this week, is intended to clear up confusion about the circumstances in which a charity can make fundraising calls to supporters who have asked not to be contacted. The revised code has been produced by the IOF Standards Committee after consultation with practitioners and the Information Commissioner’s Office. The Fundraising Standards Board (FRSB) polices the Institute’s codes and can expel any organisation that infringes them, provided that the organisation concerned is also a member of the FRSB.
For more information visit www.wefo.wales.gov.uk
For more information visit: www.institute-of-fundraising.org.uk/bestpractice/ thecodes
More than one-third of charity applications for grants were ineligible, study shows Charities submitted more than a third of a million applications in the past year for grants for which they were not eligible, research by the Directory of Social Change has found. More than 361,000 grant applications, out of a pool of almost a million, did not meet the criteria of the UK grant makers concerned, the DSC reported.
Trusts and foundations increase grants in downturn UK’s 400 largest trusts awarded £2.53bn in 2007/08 despite falls in income and asset values. Large trusts and foundations gave out more money in the period leading up to the start of the recession, despite a decline in their income, according to the Directory of Social Change. The 12th edition of The Guide to the Major Trusts, which was published last month, reveals that the 400 largest trusts in the UK awarded a total of £2.53bn in 2007/08, compared with £2.3bn the previous year. The increase came despite a £126.6m fall in their combined income and about £4bn being wiped off the value of their assets. Much of the increase in grants can be traced to Wellcome Trust, whose awards increased from £324m to £598m.
The report was based on research into 2,500 charitable funders, which were asked how many applications they received, how many were ineligible and how many grants they made during the 2009/10 financial year. Of the eligible applications, 317,000 were successful and 306,000 were unsuccessful. Remember if you need support to check eligibility criteria for particular funders then do get in touch with the PAVS Development Team at development@pavs.org.uk or on (01437) 769 422.
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Funding News All applications must be received in the PAVS offices by 5pm on the relevant deadline date. The PAVS Development Team is here to help. If you would like to discuss a possible project The Public Fundraising Regulatory Association will introduce new rules on street fundraisers later idea or request support from one of our officers to complete an application form, then just get in this year. It intends to bring in either a blacklist of face-to-face fundraisers who falsify direct debit touch! details, or an approved list of fundraisers. Application packs and further information are available from Lindsay Morgan – The organisation will decide on the approach development@pavs.org.uk or call (01437) 769 to take over the next few months. It will also 422. produce new guidance for charities on how they can deal with fundraisers who use ‘phantom donors’ - writing false bank details on forms as Little Green Grant well as asking friends and family members to sign up and then cancel their direct debits. The Little Green Grant is a local grant initiative supported by the Sustainable Development Fund, For more information visit: www.pfra.org.uk which is administered by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority and funded by the PAVS Grants Welsh Assembly Government.
PFRA ponders an approval list of fundraisers
Pembrokeshire Impact Fund
If you have a project or idea which you think will help you and others in your community to put living in a more sustainable way into practice, then the Little Green Grant could offer you some help to get started.
The scheme has distributed £202,788.65 in funding to 94 groups in Pembrokeshire since its launch in May 2008. The current scheme runs until March 2011.
Individuals, groups of individuals, voluntary or community groups, local organisations or small businesses may apply for up to £1,500 towards a project in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park or that shows genuine support and benefit to communities within the National Park.
The current grant scheme supports voluntary and community groups applying for up to £3,000 towards capital costs for a project. The scheme cannot fund the running costs of an organisation such as general office equipment. Projects need to show how they address the key themes of community involvement, sustainability and equal opportunities. Examples of projects funded in the recent round include:· • Equipment for community halls • Refurbishment of community facilities • Equipment for a play area...and much more!
Projects must achieve one or more of the principles of sustainable development which include: • Protecting the environment • Careful use of natural resources • Greater understanding and awareness of sustainable living • Recognising the needs of all people • Providing opportunities for local employment and economic growth
Deadlines for 2010 / 2011 Friday 3 September 2010 Friday 19 November 2010 Friday 11 February 2011 20
PAVS Grants • … and lots more! PAVS’ Pembrokeshire Impact Fund (PIF) supports capital costs only for groups carrying out projects in Pembrokeshire. If a project meets the criteria for both grant schemes then funding could be applied for from the Little Green Grant for revenue project costs whilst applying to the Pembrokeshire Impact Fund for capital costs. Applications can also be made to the Little Green Grant for stand alone revenue projects or capital / revenue projects that do not fit the criteria for the PIF.
In addition projects should: • Deliver a more sustainable way of life • Demonstrate consideration of how activities funded will continue longer term • Demonstrate commitment by match funding 25% or more of total project costs. This can include voluntary and in-kind contributions Possible projects could include: • Community allotments • Community composting • Education or information resources • Development of newsletters/ websites/ information networks • Community based sustainable transport initiatives • Sustainable food production and consumption of local produce • Sustainable use of water resources and access to water
The deadlines for 2010/ 2011 are: • Friday 3 September 2010 • Friday 19 November 2010 • Friday 11 February 2011 If you would like to discuss an application, request the application pack or seek further guidance to complete the application form, then please contact the Development Team at PAVS on (01437) 769 422 or e-mail development@pavs.org.uk.
Charitable Trusts Millennium Stadium Charitable Trust – Update July 2010 Following a recent review the Trust has just announced that it will now operate three rounds a year, one for each type of application - Regional, Local and National.
early March to award funding to Local applicants. Therefore local projects need to be starting after mid-March 2011. The scheme will be open from early March until 22nd April 2011 to receive applications from National organisations. The Trustees will meet at the end of June to award funding to National applicants. Therefore national projects need to be starting after July 2011.
The scheme is now open to receive applications from Regional organisations. It will close on Monday 6th September 2010 at 12 noon. The Trustees will meet mid November to award funding to Regional applicants. Therefore regional projects need to be starting after December 2010.
Funding areas remain as previously: Sports, the arts, the environment and the community. Further guidance is available on the web-site.
The scheme will be open from mid November until 22nd December 2010 to receive applications from Local organisations. The Trustees will meet
For more details visit: www.millenniumstadiumtrust.co.uk 21
Charitable Trusts Comic Relief UK Grant Programme Cycle 4 Now Open to Applications
available. Projects must take place within a SITA Trust ‘funding zone’. A location postcode checker is provided on the SITA Trust website. 2010 deadlines: 9 August and 11 October. Website: www.sitatrust.org.uk/volunteering
Comic Relief’s UK Grant Programme aims to bring about positive and lasting change in the lives of poor and disadvantaged people in the UK by supporting work that addresses people’s immediate needs, and tackling the root causes of poverty and injustice. Registered charities and voluntary organisations (including social enterprises and community interest companies) in the UK are invited to apply for grants of between £25,000 and £40,000. Grants are available to cover running or capital costs of organisations or projects under the following programmes: Mental Health. Domestic and Sexual Abuse. Refugee and Asylum Seeking Women. Sexually Exploited and Trafficked Young People. Young People and Alcohol. Young People with Mental Health Problems. Local Communities The deadline for Cycle 4 applications is 17 September 2010. Website: www.comicrelief.com/apply_for_a_grant
PRS for Music Foundation Launches New Music 20x12 Scheme
The PRS for Music Foundation has launched New Music 20x12, offering grants of up to £10,000 which will be part of the UK-wide celebrations of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, placing new music centre-stage at the Cultural Olympiad. Music organisations, festivals, ensembles, promoters or venues from England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales are invited to present ideas for a new work, in any musical genre, that they would like to commission from a UK-based composer. The deadline for applications is 1 October 2010. Website: www.prsformusicfoundation.com/ newmusic20x12
Lush Cosmetics Charity Pot
Small charities and community groups throughout the UK can apply for up to £10,000 from the Lush Charity Pot. The scheme funds small grassroots charities working in the areas of: Environment/ Conservation Animal protection Human rights Priority is given to less popular causes that are harder to raise funds for and those who find it hard to raise money due to the particular issue they are working on. The fund likes to support small, grassroots charities with low annual incomes or volunteer run. Website: www.lush.co.uk
Comic Relief Older People’s Programme Now Open to Expressions of Interest
Comic Relief’s Older People’s Programme aims to support older people aged 65 and over in the UK to bring positive change to their communities. Comic Relief particularly welcomes applications which address the needs of those in the community who experience the greatest levels of isolation and exclusion. Grants of between £15,000 and £40,000 are available for up to three years. The deadline for Expressions of Interest is 3 September 2010. Website: www.comicrelief.com/apply_for_a_grant
The Philip Henman Trust
SITA Trust Young Person’s Volunteering Fund
Grants to UK-based overseas development organisations that need partnership funding for projects lasting between three and five years. Grants are normally for between £3,000 and £5,000 a year. The Trust has a single application closing date each year. This year it is 10 September 2010 and initial decisions
The SITA Trust Young Person’s Volunteering Fund has been created to assist young people aged 14-25 to volunteer their time to create or enhance facilities that can be enjoyed by the wider community. Grants of up to £10,000 are
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Charitable Trusts be made at any time. Do It Awards will be made every three months from July 2010. Website: www.unltdsportrelief.com/
about grants will be made in October 2010. Applications can only be made online and initially only relatively brief information is required. If you have problems using the form e-mail info@pht.org.uk. Website: www.djclark.com/pht
Better Net Awards Unltd
The Better Net Awards is a joint programme from UnLtd and Nominet Trust to improve and encourage the development of a safe, educational and inclusive Internet. Individuals and informal groups around the UK can apply for up to £5,000. Applicants must be aged over 16 and should not apply as part of an established organisation. Website: www.unltd.org.uk/betternetawards
The Pilgrim Trust
The Pilgrim Trust has updated its guidelines for its Social Welfare grants. The Trust supports charitable organisations throughout the UK that are engaged in either heritage or social welfare activities. The full guidelines for the Pilgrim Trust are available on the website. The trust prefers online applications but will take hard copy applications if necessary. Website: www.thepilgrimtrust.org.uk
O2 Think Big
Think Big aims to find young people with great ideas and help them get going with the training and funding to make their ideas work. Projects have to help the community or tackle a problem with society and funding can be spent on anything that will make the project work apart from on a salary for the applicant. Successful projects could initially get up to £300 for projects and, if invited to be taken further, up to £2,500 could be awarded in stages. Individuals or groups between the ages of 13 and 25 can apply for, and run a project. People of any age can get involved by becoming fans or members of the project in the UK. Applications can be submitted at any time. Website: www.o2thinkbig.co.uk
Porticus UK
Porticus UK’s mission is to have solidarity with the poor and the marginalised, reflecting Christian responsibility and support for the social teaching of the Roman Catholic Church. Most grants are between £10,000 and £25,000 and are only likely to be awarded under the following categories: Strengthening Family Relationships; Enriching Education; Transformation through Faith; Ethics in Practice. Applications are only accepted from organisations that are a registered charity in England, Wales or Scotland, or registered CIC’s. Porticus UK welcomes applications from all eligible organisations, whether or not they have a faith basis. Website: http://porticusuk.com/
Wells Sports Foundation
The new Wells Sports Foundation provides grants of up to £2,000 to sports clubs and schools for projects that will increase participation in sport by young people. The grant will fund projects that support the development and sustainability of sports clubs. This may include projects needing equipment specifically focused on increasing participation, CRBs for volunteers, coaching qualifications and refereeing/umpiring courses. A list of FAQ’s is on the website – this is especially important for applicants outside England. Website: www.wellssportsfoundation.org
UnLtd Sport Relief Award Programme
This programme encourages young people in the UK to use sport to tackle social issues in their communities. Groups of young people aged 11-21 are eligible to apply for grants to enable those with innovative ideas to set up projects of community benefit. Young people will also receive a tailored package of support from a dedicated Development Manager. Three awards are available: Try It awards of up to £1,000; Shape It awards of up to £5,000; and Do It awards of up to £10,000. Applications can 23
Lottery Funding Big Lottery Fund Opens the AdvantAGE Programme for Older People in Wales The Big Lottery Fund (BIG) recently opened its £20 million initiative for projects across Wales designed to improve the quality of life for people aged over 50. Individual grants of between £200,000 and £1 million are available to fund initiatives running over three to five years. The funding can be used towards projects that work with beneficiaries, providing access to befriending or advocacy services, and all projects will need to demonstrate the impact and promote the development of these services. In addition, BIG wants to fund projects that aim to achieve two of the following programme outcomes: • Reduced loneliness and increased wellbeing through improving social interaction.
• Increased confidence and ability to meet the challenges and opportunities of ageing. • Increased understanding and use of rights and awareness and uptake of services leading to greater independence and choice for older people. Third sector organisations in Wales with expertise in working with the target beneficiaries, or organisations with experience of working in the fields of advocacy and befriending, are eligible to apply. The deadline is 29 October 2010. Website: www.biglotteryfund.org.uk/prog_ advantage
PAVS has now held a couple of meetings for organisations interested in the BIG Lottery AdvantAGE program to look at how a Pembrokeshire bid might be submitted, in order to avoid duplicating applications being made from within the County. If you are not yet involved and would be interested in details of the next meeting, then please contact Michelle Copeman at PAVS on (01437) 771192 or e-mail michelle.copeman@pavs.org.uk.
Big Lottery Fund - New £2m community wildlife fund opens
The Big Lottery Fund has opened a new £2m community wildlife funding programme offering grants of between £300 and £10,000. The grants will be awarded to projects that improve the natural environment by raising awareness of threatened wildlife or places. Voluntary or community sector organisations, town and parish councils, schools and health bodies can apply. There are three deadlines for applications: 21 July, 22 September and 24 November 2010. Call for an application pack on 0845 367 0610, or textphone 0845 602 1659. Web-site: www.biglotteryfund.org.uk/communitywildlife
National Funding Low Carbon Buildings Programme Closed to New Applications The Government has announced that it is committed to delivering over £6 billion of departmental spending cuts in 2010/11, and the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) is contributing £85 million towards this total. DECC has announced that since Monday, 24 May 2010, the Low Carbon
Building Programme (LCBP) is closed to all new applications. Approximately £3 million of savings will be taken from the programme’s closure. Applications that were received before the programme was closed will not be affected and current valid grant offers will be honoured. 24
National Funding Launch of the 2010/11 Round of the Communities First Trust Fund
Third Sector Development Fund
Since 2008, with the support of the Welsh Language Board, Estyn Llaw has been administering the Third Sector Development Fund which, this year, will provide financial support of up to £5,000 to third sector organisations who wish to develop progressive and innovative projects that will lead to improved services for Welsh speakers. For more information about the development fund contact Estyn Llaw. Website: www.estynllaw.org, email ymhol@estynllaw.org Or the Welsh Language Board Website: www.byig-wlb.org.uk, email post@byig-wlb.org.uk.
The Communities First Trust Fund provides grants of up to £5000 for activities organised by local people through small voluntary organisations that deliver economic, environmental, social or cultural benefits to their community. The grants can be used to fund a variety of expenses, including: • small-scale equipment for community groups • minor repairs and improvements to buildings used for community purposes • small-scale community events, festivals and trips • activity-based environmental schemes • feasibility studies for community businesses and enterprises • training and educational courses • volunteer expenses The Fund is targeted geographically at the Communities First wards in Wales. Applications for winter/Christmas events should be received by August 2010. The deadline for receipt of general applications is 31 January 2011. Website: www.wcva.org.uk/grants
Millennium Volunteers (MV) grants round
Projects can apply for a grant of £50 to £8,000 towards the costs of supporting young volunteers by reimbursing travel, training and expenses. The next round will be in October 2010 – the application form can be downloaded from the WCVA web-site. For more information, please contact: David Heald, Millennium Volunteers Co-ordinator on 029 2043 1728 or at dheald@wcva.org.uk or visit the website at www.wcva.org.uk/volunteering
GwirVol and StreetGames launch sports grants
The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service
The new GwirVol StreetGames grants scheme - the grants of up to £2,000 are designed to help develop structured sports programmes in disadvantaged communities through involving young people aged 16-25 as volunteers. The projects will also have access to training, support and mentoring. The grants will help organisations provide opportunities that will challenge young people, meet their aspirations and add value to their communities. For more information and to find out how to apply for the GwirVol StreetGames grants, visit the website: www.GwirVol.org or contact Caro Wild at StreetGames caro.wild@streetgames.org 25
The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, the MBE for volunteer groups, recognises the outstanding contributions made to local communities by groups in the UK, Channel Islands and Isle of Man voluntarily devoting their time for the benefit of others. This is the highest national honour that can be bestowed upon groups of this kind. The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service serves to provide recognition of volunteer groups and demonstrates the high respect in which volunteering is held. Application deadline for the 2011 Award - 30 September 2010. Website www.direct.gov.uk/ thequeensawardforvoluntaryservice
There are a variety of funding sources in UK, from Trusts and Foundations to local funders. This Funding section provides a snap shot of these. The PAVS Development Team can provide further tailored guidance on identifying appropriate sources of funding, give tips and support groups to apply for funding for particular projects. The team uses Grantfinder to run grant searches for groups. In addition more information is held in the Funding Section of the Resource Library at the Pembrokeshire Centre for Voluntary Action (which is located on the ground floor of PAVS offices in Haverfordwest) – call in at any time during normal office hours. For more information about funding searches or sustainable funding strategies, contact the Development Team at PAVS on 01437 769422 or e-mail development@pavs.org.uk
Volunteering First group in Pembrokeshire sign Engagement Gateway Contract. On 29th June the Tanyard Youth Project became the first group in Pembrokeshire to sign a Level 1 Engagement Gateway Contract. At Level 1 organisations receive up to £25,000 to deliver a contract without having to find any match funding.
Project Manager, John Heffernan, said “This is a very exciting project and one that we have been wanting to run for a long time. It means we can now offer an even more expansive service for the young people of Pembroke and Pembroke Dock. It builds upon a lot of our existing work and creates new opportunities for everyone in the community”
The Tanyard started their 2 year project on 1st July and are already engaging with the young people who visit the centre. The Tanyard will work with the hardest to reach young people in the Pembroke area through building strong relationships, and providing informal activities, and accredited opportunities to improve levels of confidence and motivation. Therefore enabling the young people to progress and success in mainstream training, education or employment.
If you would like to know more about the Tanyard please visit the website www.tanyardyouthproject.org.uk/index.html
LATEST VACANCIES PEMBROKESHIRE SCOUTS Club and Scout Leaders
RSPB Pin Badge Box Minder
MOTOR NEURONE DISEASE ASSOCIATION Branch Secretary
BRITISH HEART FOUNDATION Communications Officer
MENINGITIS RESEARCH FOUNDATION Telephone Befriender
RNLI Event / Festival Volunteer
ROYAL NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF BLIND PEOPLE (RNIB) Event Assistant
TORCH THEATRE COMPANY Theatre Ambassador and Leaflet Distributor
OXFAM Online Assistant & Retail Assistant 26
Volunteering Youth Volunteering Fair September 2010 Following the success of last year’s pilot event which was attended by over 500 people, PAVS Volunteering Pembrokeshire will be hosting a further Youth Volunteering Fair on 22nd September 2010 at The Pavilion, Withybush, Haverfordwest from 10am-3pm. The Youth Volunteering Fair is open to all comers but is aimed primarily at those who are 16+ and interested in volunteering, particularly those
students who will be studying for the Welsh Baccalaureate and who will be required to undertake 30 hours of community work as part of their course. Any groups which would like to recruit young volunteers are invited to attend this event and have a display stand. We would particularly welcome some kind of activity at stands that young people can participate in; for example, last year one group were making popcorn bird feeders which proved very popular! If your group would like to do some kind of workshop or presentation on a rolling basis throughout the day please let us know what you would like to do and we will do our best to accommodate you. Refreshments will be available throughout the day and lunch will be provided for all standholders free of charge. For more information please see the poster (enclosed in this newsletter) and please display if possible. If you would like to be involved in this event please contact the Volunteering team at PAVS on 01437 769422 or email volunteering@pavs.org.uk. 27
Training Learning Zone at the County Council Your Choice, Your Future
Catch the Learning Bug with PAVS We are in the process of putting together the September 2010-July 2011 training brochure. There will be some of the usual courses available as well as some new courses that we are very excited to be able to off er. As usual you can book onto an open course, or if you have 6 or more people from your organisation, you can book a course for your group at a time and date to suit.
If you’re coming to the County Show this year (17-19 August), then pay a visit to the Learning Zone on the corner of Main Avenue and Band Avenue. The Learning Zone is a one stop venue incorporating all the training and educational choices in Pembrokeshire for adults over 16 years of age. As usual PAVS will be part of the Learning Zone and you will be able to pick up the new 2010-11 training brochure.
Courses on offer will include:
Visitors will be able get advice about learning new skills and gaining qualifications that can help in progressing careers or even changing jobs. “The Learning Zone is always a great place to pick up information and ideas, for work or leisure. It’s a really good time to find out about courses starting in September as the new brochures will be out”, commented Coordinator, Louise Wilkinson.
• Local Safeguarding Children Board Approved Tier 1 Training • Business Continuity Workshop • Monitoring and Evaluating Your Work • How to do Risk Assessments (for premises, such as an office or village hall) • Marketing your Volunteer Opportunities • Community Fundraising • Trustee Roles and Responsibilities • …and much more
There will be a mixture of demonstrations every day which will give people an opportunity to have a go at something new, with quizzes and competitions there will also be plenty to keep the children entertained. As well as picking up information about learning opportunities from local providers, and some from further afield, Careers Wales West will also be present if people want advice and support about careers.
For more information about the courses please see the next PAVS newsletter, visit the PAVS website www.pavs.org.uk or contact Louise Wilkinson on 01437 769422.
News from Members Pembrokeshire South East Energy Group On 16th September Pembrokeshire South East Energy Group will be hosting Richard Ellis the National Trust’s Head Warden, Pembrokeshire. He will be giving an extremely interesting and informative presentation on the changes to the coast of Wales and in particular Pembrokeshire, caused by rising sea levels. All who live in this beautiful county should be aware of the threat to coastal villages and beaches and the plans and timescales for what can be protected and what will have to be relinquished to the sea. All will be welcome to join us on Thursday 16th September at The Regency Hall, Saundersfoot at 7.00pm. 28
News from Members Coppicing and Woodland Skills Courses in West Wales 6 month Woodland Skills Course.
As well as practical experience, our knowledgeable tutors constantly regale students with facts of flora and fauna, providing them with an ever growing knowledge store of the interesting tree, plant, animal and insect species in our woods. Basic tree biology and species recognition are also taught during the course.
Once again, Starting at the end of September we will be running our unique 6 month woodland skills course. The course runs for 2 days a week, throughout the coppicing season, until the end of March. In our beautiful, peaceful woodlands in Pembrokeshire where Chainsaws are rarely heard, students attending the course will learn how to safely handle and maintain a wonderful selection of Traditional hand tools such as axes, crosscut saws, bill hooks, side axes, hatchets and draw knives which they will use to cut, sort and process the coppiced wood from next seasons plot.
Who is the course for? • Woodland owners and farmers or their staff • Park rangers • Self employed crafts people. • Unemployed people and school leavers looking for alternative employment opportunities. • Anyone with an interest in traditional rural skills using hand tools. • Anyone interested in reducing their carbon footprint, preserving the natural environment and improving habitat. The full course fee is £1740.00. There may be some grant funding available and we are able to negotiate payment plans with students. Affordable accommodation can also be arranged if necessary.
This course is a great opportunity to get involved with the regeneration and conservation of a previously neglected woodland bringing it back to life through coppicing and replanting. As the course progresses there students will gain experience in other traditional skills such as Hedge laying, Charcoal Making, Green woodworking, Carving and Willow Weaving. The instructors will also guide the students as they work on a personal Craft project of their choice, using the materials harvested through the coppicing process. Previous personal projects have included shave horses, chairs and stools.
Short Courses
Running alongside the 6 month course will be the following short courses:
Introduction to Coppicing
Starts: Monday 25th October 2010. Duration: 4 days. Cost: £160.00. This course will show you how to take a neglected woodland and transform it into a productive coppice with wildlife benefits. We will demonstrate how to cut a coppice plot safely with appropriate hand tools and you will learn to know different trees and understand their value. 29
News from Members Beeline Community Theatre Company Bee Line Community Theatre Company are looking for a volunteer musical director/pianist for a new musical to be toured in late 2011. The company would be able to pay expenses.
A one-night pilot performance in 2004 was well received, but sets, costumes, lighting, and orchestral direction were less than satisfactory and done on a shoestring. It was realised that a musical director has to be appointed from the word go, to give credibility to funding applications and to have a voice in casting. The MD would also be the pianist for performances: Bee Line have abandoned the unwieldy business of rehearsing an orchestra, and Peter has prepared a score for solo piano.
Bee Line were founded in 2004, with a constitution which includes equal opportunities and child protection policies. Their track record includes five successful productions in West Wales, mainly in Pembrokeshire, and two weeks on tour at the Edinburgh Fringe. They have also run acting workshops. Volunteer actors, singers, and musicians are drawn from all over the county.
The tour is planned for late 2011 at venues in various parts of Pembrokeshire and South Ceredigion, and maybe even further afield. Precise dates will be negotiated with the MD once appointed. Alex Barr, secretary of Bee Line, can be contacted for further information, including sample piano scores, a copy of the book, and a CD of songs, on 01348 840309 or at alexmcclure@btinternet.com. He would also like to hear from any costume and set designers who might be interested.
The new musical is ‘Swarm Fever’. The score, by Peter Oram, is rich and varied and verges on the operatic, but experience has shown it to be within the capabilities of good amateur singers and musicians. The story has an educational dimension as it is based on authentic details of the life of the honey bee—topical now there is such concern about hive collapse syndrome and pollination—but does have the added romantic element a musical requires.
Pond Dipping and Damsel flies at High Tide Manorbier High Tide Festival will join forces with Pembrokeshire Biodiversity Partnership, PLANED and Pembrokeshire Coast National Park for a creative biodiverse summer holiday activity in July this year on the theme of ‘Pond Life’.
Helen Astley including damsel and dragonfly puppet making, batik, animation, percussion, as well as games and fun throughout the festival. The workshops are open to all, but children under 7 years old must be accompanied by an adult. The cost is £7 per day, or £25 if you book for all four days. Workshops run from 10am – 4pm.
High Tide Festival for children and families, now in its 7th year, will run from Saturday 24th July – Tuesday 27th July will take place at Manorbier Community Centre, Skrinkle, and include a Wildlife on your Patch pond dipping activity on Monday 26th July (2 – 4.30pm) exploring the freshwater life in the stream.
For further information about High Tide workshops contact Angela Rogers on 01834 871931. For more information about Wildlife on your Patch activity contact Rupert Dunn on 01834 862114. High Tide is funded by Pembrokeshire County Council, with support from Manorbier Stores and Post Office.
Children and families are once again invited to come and explore a range of creative activities with local professional artists Chris Elliott and 30
News from Members Priory Project News - An update on our liaison with Pembrokeshire College We continued to liaise with Leanne Oughton by email and on her visits to Priory House, She came to our March Board meeting with her initial designs for our stationery and we were absolutely delighted with them, she had done a letter head, a compliments slip, a business card and a brochure She wanted to do a bit more work on it and return with the final design at our next board meeting.
at the exhibition where we presented her with a cheque to thank her for her work. I am sure you will agree that the results are wonderful so do think about contacting the college Graphic Design Department if you ever need help with designing anything. We had an excellent experience with the college and Leanne all thanks to PAVS.
At our May meeting she returned with the final design which we all approved of and agreed to get it printed as soon as possible so that it could be displayed at the exhibition of the students work in the college. We arranged a visit to a local printer and Leanne, our manager and a trustee went along chose the paper and agreed a date to proceed. The printing was delivered and Leanne was able to display it at the exhibition, she got a highly commended pass mark which we all celebrated
Really good sports! Young farmers from Pembrokeshire have been bucking this summer’s trend of British sporting failures in some style.
The success rounded off a summer of sport for Pembrokeshire YFC, which also saw Fishguard YFC win the pool competition and darts event, jointly with Llysyfran YFC; South Pembs YFC Were bowled over to win the ten-pin bowling competition and Llawhaden YFC retained their rugby crown once again.
County members traveled to Brecon for the Wales YFC Sports Day and came home victorious, taking the overall crown after finishing in the top two in four out of the five events. Leading the way were Holly Thomas and Jake O’Sullivan, of Llawhaden YFC, who won the junior badminton doubles. Their success was closely matched by Llawhaden’s football and mixed hockey teams, and Fishguard YFC’s volleyball team, who all finished second. Brawdy YFC rounded off a successful day by taking part in the netball competition. The badminton, hockey and volleyball teams will all go on to represent Wales at the national finals in October.
Badminton doubles champions Holly Thomas and Jake O’Sullivan, of Llawhaden YFC receive their trophy from Wales YFC chairman Tim John. 31
Membership News Bluestone opens to the Third Sector A number of representatives from voluntary and community Groups across Pembrokeshire recently enjoyed a morning of activities and networking at Bluestone. Bluestone kindly offered to run an open day just for the Third Sector and the invitation was extended to PAVS members and to the wider sector via the PAVS website and e-mail newsgroups.
Those who attended had a chance to try out some of the on-site activities such as archery, laser clay and high ropes course. The day started with a tour of the activity centre before the group headed to the Steep Ravine to have a go at the activities. After a lunch cooked over the camp fire at “Camp Smokey” when there was plenty of time to chat and network, the group had a guided tour of the accommodation and village. Janet from the Pembrokeshire South East Energy Group commented, “It was great day out and we met many other people working in the voluntary sector.”
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