Internet Explorers at De Clare Court Elderly tenants at De Clare Court retirement housing project got their first taste of life online in April thanks to the skills and patience of the Carreg Las Explorer Scouts, under the supervision of PAVS Communities 2.0 (C2.0) Team member and Scout Leader, Mike Beckett. The Explorer Scouts worked with the UK’s ‘Go On Adopt’ scheme which encourages schools and youth groups to adopt a care home and ‘inspire, encourage and support people to get online’ and communicate with their friends, family and the wider world. One gentleman recently had a stroke and can currently only use his left hand. So the Explorer Scouts set to work and found some accessible computer mice and keyboards to support him getting online. For more information about Go On Adopt visit www.go-onadopt.org
Issue 54 Rhif 54
May 2011 Mai 2011
Contents Foreword Core Services Representation and Joint Working Circuit Riders Charity Commission News Funding News Training Volunteering Members News
2 4 6 8 9 12 22 24 26
Pembrokeshire Association of Voluntary Services 36 - 38 High Street Haverfordwest Pembrokeshire SA61 2DA Cydeithas Gwasanaethau Gwirfoddol Sir Benfro 36 - 38 Stryd Fawr Hwlffordd Sir Benfro SA61 2DA If you would like support getting your members or service users online then please contact the PAVS C2.0 team on 01437 771197 or email josh.hoole@pavs.org.uk.
The deadline for the next issue is: Friday Friday 29 July 2011 Email to:enquiries@pavs.org.uk
Tel: 01437 769422 Fax/Ffacs: 01437 769431 www.pavs.org.uk
Foreword Welcome to the Spring edition of Pembrokeshire Voice.
development of a social enterprise that will offer a range of services to the sector, as well as bidding for public sector contracts.
Since our last newsletter, budget settlements have been finalised and it seems that on average, voluntary groups have received cuts in their core funding of between 5%-7% for 2011-2012 with the prospect of similar reductions being applied in the following two years. Pembrokeshire County Council and Hywel Dda Health Board have extended existing Service Level Agreements by six months to 30th September whilst work continues on developing new service commissioning frameworks. This is complex work and it is likely that SLAs will be further extended to the end of the financial year to allow for a managed transition period during which changes can be implemented.
Driving change requires an investment of staff time which can often be problematic in view of heavy workloads. Wales Council for Voluntary Action (WCVA) can now offer “internships” to third sector organisations that may need an extra pair of hands to deliver a particular piece of work, such as marketing, customer research, ICT development, etc. This project offers an excellent low-cost opportunity to bring new skills into an organisation and more information is available in the volunteering section of this newsletter. One of the major pieces of work PAVS has been engaged in over the past few months is to promote the active involvement of the third sector organisations, their members and service users in the design of services. A great deal of time and effort has gone into the Hywel Dda 3rd Sector Co-design project, launched at a wellattended event in Narberth last September. This project has involved looking at a number of areas including volunteering, commissioning, charitable funds, locality planning and the role of the CVC with a view to establishing a set of recommendations to put before the Hywel Dda Board in July. It is hoped that this work will result in the Health Board recognising the potential of the third sector to be a key partner in the delivery of the objectives set out in its 5-Year Framework – and then investing in the sector to realise that potential.
Clearly, this is a challenging time for third sector service providers as they struggle to balance increasing demands with diminishing resources, but the sector is nothing if not resilient and we are already seeing some innovative and creative approaches being adopted. On a positive note, approval has finally been received for a European-funded Community Economic Development project to be delivered through County Voluntary Councils across the whole Convergence area. This means that PAVS will be able to provide additional development and funding information and support to third sector service providers in Pembrokeshire - a muchneeded resource in these difficult times. PAVS has not been immune to cuts in funding and the Board is currently developing a business plan and funding strategy to secure its frontline services for the future. Clearly, there are two distinct elements to this work – reviewing costs and increasing income. Following a very interesting seminar organised by the regional Collaborative Communities team, PAVS is currently working with the Charities Buying Group to identify potential savings on energy and telecoms services – more information on this excellent FREE service is included later in this newsletter. The Board is also investing in the
PAVS is also working with partners including PLANED and TENP (The Environmental Network for Pembrokeshire) to develop a “master class” in co-production aimed at public sector commissioners and heads of service. Coproduction is a method of designing services that places the service user, their family/community networks and the third sector at the heart of the service, rather than being the “icing on the cake”. The Welsh Assembly Government Social Services Department is extremely interested in developing a co-productive approach to service 2
Foreword a communication “hub” and an enhanced data unit, collating and analysing feedback received through a range of engagement channels. This is a key action in the Community Plan and one which is assigned to PAVS as the lead organisation.
design and delivery. Sue was recently invited to take part in a national workshop on co-production led by the Institute of Public Care which will eventually inform the development of a strategic model to be rolled out across Wales. Locally, it is pleasing to see that commissioning frameworks emerging from the current work on service redesign include commitments to co-production and service user engagement.
Looking ahead, please join us on 7th June to celebrate volunteering at our annual Volunteer of the Year Award Ceremony as part of National Volunteers Week. This is always a fantastic opportunity to recognise and reward voluntary effort in the County so please make every effort to come along and support our volunteers. More information about the Awards Ceremony and other events taking place in the County is available in the volunteering section of this newsletter.
On the subject of engagement, members of the Community Planning and Leadership Partnership are looking at how to develop a more co-ordinated approach to community engagement in order to facilitate an ongoing “dialogue” with people living in Pembrokeshire. A one-day workshop facilitated by Participation Cymru will take place in the early part of June, building on the recent work carried out by Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority around community engagement. It is hoped that this work will lead to the development of
This edition of Pembrokeshire Voice has the usual mix of articles that we hope you will find informative and useful. Happy reading!
Ian Hunter OBE, Chair
Sue Leonard, Chief Officer
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News from the Board underpin the development of PAVS’ strategic plan and longer-term business plan. All members have now received a hard copy of the summary version of the interim business plan, together with a feedback questionnaire. The documents and the questionnaire can also be accessed through the PAVS’ website and this information has been circulated to the wider third sector through e-bulletins. Unpaid carers and volunteers are also being consulted as part of the process.
The main focus of work for the Board over the past few months has been to set a forward budget for 2011-2012 and to start work on the strategic planning process, following publication of an interim business plan for the coming year. As reported in the foreword, setting the budget has been particularly difficult this year because of the uncertainties around public sector spending and the potential effects on service level agreements. In addition, the Board has needed to designate funds to cover the costs of purchasing a new management information system, upgrade the building to provide flexible office accommodation, and employ key staff to enable the Association to make progress against the forward plan and the implement a sustainable funding strategy.
It is planned to hold focus group meetings towards the end of June for third sector organisations and statutory partners. The Board invites you to attend if you can. Your views are vital in helping PAVS plan for the future so that the Association can continue to provide a comprehensive range of high quality and affordable development support services to third sector groups in Pembrokeshire over the coming years.
At its February meeting, the Board agreed the format of the stakeholder consultation process that will
Core Services Office space available If you are looking for full or part-time serviced accommodation – either a single desk space or a self contained lockable office for four desks, then there may be something suitable for you at the PAVS’ offices in Haverfordwest. We can provide desk/office space with telephone and internet access, a reception service for receiving calls, meeting and greeting visitors, heating, lighting and cleaning all included. We have a first floor office which will be available from July 2011 onwards as well as single desk space in the Pembrokeshire Centre for Voluntary Action on the ground floor. We would be really pleased to hear from you if you would like to consider moving in with us on a short or longer term basis. You may be looking for start-up office space or you may need to reduce your costs and be looking for a longer term less expensive option. We can provide pleasant, secure, managed office accommodation – just come and have a look. At the Centre for Voluntary Action there are also a range of meeting areas and rooms available for hire from 9am to 9pm. We can seat from 2 to 12 people in ‘board room’ style or provide discreet one to one confidential meeting areas. Whatever your requirements for meeting or office space, ask us first – we’ll do our best to help you! Our rates are competitive and our welcome friendly. For more information and to arrange a visit of our offices, please contact Sue James-Davies on 01437 769422 or e-mail enquiries@pavs.org.uk 4
Core Services YOUR CHANCE TO TELL US WHAT YOU THINK ABOUT PAVS Many thanks to those organisations who have already returned the completed questionnaire relating to the PAVS interim business plan. The majority of the feedback received to date is overwhelmingly positive about PAVS and the services we provide, which is really nice to hear, but we also appreciate the constructive suggestions that have been received about ways in which we could do even better in future. If you have not yet completed the questionnaire, please try and find the time to do so and send it to us using the Freepost address provided. The questionnaire is also available on-line if you prefer to submit it electronically – just follow the links from the home page of the PAVS’ website at www. pavs.org.uk. We look forward to hearing from you!
Save Money With the Charities Buying Group Utility Aid – founded in 2002, Utility Aid is an award winning energy consultancy created with the mission of saving third sector organisations time and money spent on sourcing and purchasing electricity and gas supplies so that resources can be saved for things that matter more. Utility Aid starts by carrying out a free energy audit and will then provide options to lower your energy costs. For more information, visit the Utility Aid website at www.utility-aid.co.uk or phone 0800 881 5678 to speak to the regional Affinities Manager, William Campbell.
The PAVS’ Senior Administrative Officer recently attended an excellent half-day workshop organised by Collaborative Communities which introduced the benefits of collaboration and the advantages of increased buying power through collective purchasing. The event – which was entirely free of charge – included presentations from the Charities Buying Group and their partner organisations, Utility Aid and 3rd Sector Telecom. Charities Buying Group –a specialist provider of purchasing solutions for the third sector, offering purchasing expertise specifically relevant to the charity environment, with a focus on value for money. To benefit from this service, all you have to do is to become a member of the Charities Buying Group – and this is completely free of charge! There is no membership fee and no subscription charge and members receive a completely free service providing advice on a range of purchasing options and buying agreements. All information is provided on a “no obligation” basis – in other words, you do not have to take up the offers that are presented to you. In fact, some organisations simply use the information they receive to try and negotiate a better deal with their current suppliers. The end result is the same – cost savings for the third sector! You can join on-line at www.charitiesbuyinggroup.com or contact CBG for more information and an application form on 0800 195 3010.
3rd Sector Telecom is operated by the Charities Buying Group as a specialist provider of all aspects of telecommunications to the third sector, supplying a wide range of first class services, all on one bill, and guaranteed to save money against your current provider. 3rd Sector Telecom provides free impartial advice and guarantees to find you the most competitive rates in the marketplace. For a free, no-obligation analysis of your telephone costs, call 0800 083 9850 or visit the website at www.3rdsectortelecom.com. PAVS has already joined as a member of the Charities Buying Group and has accessed the free and impartial advice that is available. The process has been very straightforward and already we can see that we can make savings on our overhead costs – so it does work! If you want to find out what is involved from a customer perspective, please ring Sue James-Davies at PAVS on 01437 769422. 5
Representation and Joint Working Intergenerational work for a sustainable future Over the last few months a project in two communities in Pembrokeshire, Hermon and Carew, looked at how young and old people can work together to create a better future. The aim of the project was to enable old and young people to share experiences and wishes for a more self-reliant life that doesn’t involve the present scale of use of resources that threatens our planet. The idea for this work came from the Environmental Network for Pembrokeshire (TENP) and Jasmine Saville, who is a trustee of the network, facilitated the intergenerational sessions. Bettina Becker from PAVS provided support and ongoing evaluation. Funding came through PLANED from the Rural Development Plan.
groups. Good facilitation skills including fun and games and cake and tea made everybody feel at ease and helped people to get to know each other. A very enjoyable part for both old and young people was to share skills and to work together. Participants knitted, sewed, made jewellery, bird boxes and wove with wool. The feedback on the project was very positive, both young and old people enjoyed working together and there are plans to continue the exchange. More craft activities, joint walks, camping, a pantomime, and even a football game are envisaged! The Hermon Girl Guides even produced a short film reflecting on the project! A full report on this project will be available at the end of May. If you’d like a copy or would like to find out more about the project please contact Bettina Becker at PAVS on Tel: 01437 769422, or email bettina.becker@pavs.org.uk
In each community three sessions were held in which old and young people got together and talked about the past as well as the future. Participants came from Carew and Clandwr WIs, the Carew Youth Club, Hermon Girl Guides and the Carew local history group. It proved successful to plan the sessions in a very flexible way responding to the needs of the participating
For more information about the work of the Environmental Network for Pembrokeshire (TENP) go to www.tenp.org.uk or contact Jasmine Saville at jasmine@gourmetorganic.co.uk
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Representation and Joint Working Pembrokeshire GP Practices Invest in Carers Last month eleven GP practices in Pembrokeshire received the Bronze level Investors in Carers Scheme for successfully demonstrating they have processes in place to effectively identify carers, provide appropriate information and signposting to further support. The Investors in Carers scheme was rolled out across the county following a pilot scheme with three surgeries in 2008. The project was led by the Carers Development worker from Pembrokeshire Association of Voluntary Services (PAVS), delivered in partnership with the British Red Cross Ceredigion Carers Support Service and funded by the Rural Development Plan for Wales through PLANED.
The surgeries to receive the award are: Robert Street Practice, Milford Haven Barlow House Surgery, Milford Haven Meddgyfa Rhiannon, Narberth Narberth/Clarbeston Road Practice Winch Lane Surgery, Haverfordwest Health Centre, Neyland The Health Centre, Fishguard Saundersfoot Medical Centre St David’s Surgery The Surgery, Tenby Newport Surgery
Practice managers and staff from the practices attended initial training which covered carers’ issues, an overview of the scheme and an introduction to the Bronze level along with their evidence folders. The surgeries were divided between the PAVS and Red Cross workers for follow up meetings, any training sessions and assessments. Carers are now invited by the surgeries which reached the Bronze level for the Investors in Carers scheme to register with the surgery and receive the newsletter. As well as relevant information for carers, their details will also be forwarded to Social Services for a carers assessment on request. Peter Llewellyn, Head of Strategic Partnership, of Hywel Dda Health Board, said: “Sometimes the carers’ well-being can be overlooked so it is really pleasing to see so many of our GP surgeries receiving an award like this.”
This project has received funding through the Rural Development Plan for Wales 2007-2013 which is funded by the Welsh Assembly Government and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development
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ICT PAVS Circuit Rider Project PAVS’ Circuit Riders (ICT Support Officers) offer advice and support all aspects of ICT (Information Communications Technology) for your group or organisation. You may want to: • Set up or improve your website • Buy the right computer and new software • Share photos & videos of your events • Video conference your clients, Trustees or staff for free The Circuit Riders also deliver workshops throughout Pembrokeshire to show how modern technologies can enhance your work, reduce your costs and improve your communications. Through the Communities 2.0 project, PAVS works with voluntary groups and organisations based in, or who work within, targeted areas of Pembrokeshire, namely: • Haverfordwest, Castle & Garth • Milford, Hubberston & West • Pembroke Dock, Central & Llanion • Pembroke, Monkton & St Mary North ICT support can be provided to social enterprises across the whole of the County. If you would like further information please contact: sue.blantern@pavs.org.uk or look online: www.pavs.org.uk/support/ict/
Help Us Get Your Service Users Online Around 35,000 people in Pembrokeshire are not enjoying the benefits of being online. An estimated 65% of them are over 55 and a majority of the rest will have a disability, live in an area of multiple deprivation or be unemployed. With an increasing volume of services, information and cost savings only available online, there is a significant number of people in our county missing out. That’s why the PAVS Communities 2.0 Team are now working with local voluntary groups and organisations not only to help them benefit from digital technology but also to help them undertake digital inclusion activities with their members. What use is your beautiful and
informative website if the people who need it are not online? Why have a Skype account if you can’t video call your remote clients? We can run basic computer and internet sessions at PAVS in Haverfordwest or come to a venue near you to run sessions with your clients, members and service users. We can also run mini workshops on topics like Skype, Twitter & Facebook for Beginners, Shopping Safely Online as well as running hands on events showcasing new technology like iPads, Broadband Dongles and Internet on the Wii.
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Help us solve digital inclusion in Pembrokeshire and contact us on 01437 771197 or email josh.hoole@pavs.org.uk
Charity Commission News Charity Commission launches new telephone service for Welsh speakers The Charity Commission has extended the services it offers Welsh speakers with the launch of a new telephone facility. Callers to the Commission’s helpline can already ask to talk to one of the regulator’s Welsh-speaking advisors. Now this option will be advertised upfront with customers asked to “press 2” to speak to an adviser in Welsh. Harry Iles, Head of the Charity Commission’s Wales Office, said: “Around 21% of the population in Wales speaks Welsh so it’s vital that the Welsh language services we provide to trustees and the public are promoted as widely as possible”. Welsh speaking customers can already apply online to register a charity and use the electronic forms in Welsh. The Charity Commission revised its Welsh Language Scheme in 2010 reaffirming its commitment to treating the Welsh and English languages on a basis of equality.
Charity Commission publishes CIO guidance and constitutions The Charity Commission has published the first part of its guidance for anyone interested in setting up a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) and two model constitutions for forming a CIO, ahead of the expected implementation.
involved. The guidance will help ensure people are clear about what being a CIO would mean ahead of the new structure being implemented.” The documents may be subject to change once Parliament has agreed the regulations, however it is expected that any changes will be minor. The regulations which complete the legal framework for CIOs have not yet been debated by Parliament and the Office for Civil Society will publish a timetable for implementation in due course.
A Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), brought in by the 2006 Charities Act, is an incorporated form of charity which is not a company. It only has to register with the Charity Commission and not Companies House and is only created once it is registered by the Commission. A CIO can enter into contracts in its own right and its trustees will normally have limited or no liability for the debts of the CIO.
Implementation will be phased, with new organisations among the first to be able to register as CIOs, and existing charitable companies being able to convert to CIOs towards the end of the implementation period.
The Commission has published its guidance and the model constitutions to enable charities, advisers and anyone else interested in setting up a CIO to decide if the CIO structure is the right one for them, and to familiarise themselves with the guidance and constitutions ahead of implementation. The guidance will be added to over the coming months.
The CIO will be most suitable for small to medium-sized organisations that employ staff or enter into contracts. The guidance sets out the rules and the benefits for CIOs, how to register, what CIOs will have to do which is different from an unincorporated charity and what is involved in running a CIO, including reporting requirements.
Sam Younger, Chief Executive of the Charity Commission said;
Many aspects of running a CIO will be the same as other forms of charity, but there are important differences and additional obligations on the trustees of a CIO which are set out in the guidance.
“By making the CIO guidance and constitutions available now, there is the opportunity for people to look more closely at whether the CIO structure is the right one for their needs, and what will be 9
Charity Commission News The Commission has published two model constitutions: •
the foundation model for charities whose only voting members will be the charity trustees
•
the association model for charities that will have a wider membership, including voting members other than the trustees
This study reinforces the fact that sometimes you only have to look close to ‘home’ to fill the gaps on your committee.
Charity Commission’s spotlight on Amateur Sport and Charitable Status The Charity Commission’s spotlight is on sport at the moment. Earlier this month the Commission published their Public Benefit Assessment Reports into four sports charities, published a new consultation on the advancement of amateur sport (response deadline 31 May 2011) and announced the first registration of a Bridge Club.
A CIO using the foundation model will be like an unincorporated charitable trust, run by a small group of people (the charity trustees) who will make all key decisions. A CIO using the ‘association’ model will have a wider voting membership who must make certain decisions (such as amending the constitution), will usually appoint some or all of the charity trustees (who will serve for fixed terms), and may be involved in the work of the CIO.
This is of interest for:
The guidance and the model constitutions are available on the Commission’s website www.charitycommission.gov.uk Through the European funded Collaborative Communities project, support is available from PAVS’ Development Team for all voluntary and community groups wishing to explore the option to become a CIO.
•
sports organisations already registered as charities;
•
sports/games organisations looking to register as charities;
•
national governing bodies; and
•
grant giving trusts that give or wish to give grants to sports or games organisations.
See the Charity Commission website for more information: www.charitycommission.gov.uk
Where do you find Trustees?
Volunteering Pembrokeshire is continually asked if they have people on their books who are willing to become trustees – the answer is nearly always “no”.
HMRC to simplify charity guidance HMRC is to review all of its charity guidance in order to make it easier for those who are not tax professionals.
A survey by the Institute for Philanthropy has suggested that almost half of trustee appointments come through personal recommendations. The organisation questioned 100 chief executives and chairs of the boards of UK charities for its report The State of UK Charity Boards, and found 49 per cent of all trustee appointments came through personal contact. Only 20 per cent of respondents said outside advertising was their primary means of trustee recruitment.
In what it described as “a significant undertaking”, HMRC will contact groups and individuals to understand their issues and concerns, and consider how to help reduce charities’ administrative burdens, for example by explaining common errors. In the meantime, it will produce a number of short guides on specific topics to support charities. 10
Charity Commission News In a statement, it said: “HM Revenue & Customs recognises that some published guidance is targeted at certain groups within the charity community and can be difficult for people who are not tax professionals to use.”
Future of cheques still under question? The Treasury Select Committee will reopen its inquiry into plans to phase out cheques after being inundated by public concern and unconvinced by evidence put forward by the Payments Council.
Health and Safety The Health and Safety Executive has published new guidance “Voluntary organisations – managing low risk”. The guidance covers various areas including if your organisation is an employer; if it manages a community building; or organises events. There are checklists and fact sheets available to simplify the management of risk for community groups. The guidance is available on their website: www.hse.gov.uk/voluntary/index.htm
Doubts about the rigorousness of the Payments Council’s cost-benefit analysis and argument that cheques were doomed to inevitable decline as well as public reaction to the idea has prompted the reopening of the inquiry. A spokesperson for the Committee said “Since our last inquiry we have been inundated by letters from the public telling us they rely on cheques, many charities, small business and vulnerable people depend on cheques.”
Sector guide on how to use the Equality Act
The Committee has requested that the Payments Council go away and “do some numbercrunching” on the cost-benefits of phasing out cheques after The Committee said it was “shocked” by the lack of such evidence provided by the Council at the last inquiry.
The Equality and Diversity Forum have produced a useful publication. ‘How to use the Equality Act 2010: A guide for voluntary and community organisations’ looks at how the new equality law can be used in advocacy, service delivery and campaigning work. A copy of the guide can be downloaded or ordered from their website: www.edf.org.uk
The Institute of Fundraising has been leading the charity sector charge against the plans, claiming that it could have a detrimental impact on charities that rely on cheque donations for income. Trustees who attended the national Trustee Week event last October organised by PAVS, took part in the initial consultation process on the planned phasing out of cheques.
Charity Commission News - Spring 2011 The latest edition of Charity Commission News is available on their website. This edition introduces a new piece of guidance that helps you manage your charity’s finances, explains what you need to know about charities and referendums and updates you on the Commission’s strategic review.
The Payments Council produces a quarterly newsletter called Communiqué detailing information about their current work. Previous editions feature articles on how the abolition of cheques would affect older people and charities, clubs & societies. If you wish to receive this newsletter to keep up to date on progress visit the Payment Council’s website: www.paymentscouncil.org.uk
The Charity Commission News is available to download for free from the website: www.charitycommission.gov.uk 11
Funding Events PAVS’ Outreach Week – 11th - 15th April 2011 Five days and five different venues saw more than 20 groups take advantage of a chance to talk through their funding needs, check out governance issues and generally catch up with voluntary sector news.
communities took appointments to request feedback on a Lottery bid, discuss plans for a sports development and potential for children’s activities. St Johns Hall in Pembroke Dock was busy, busy, on Thursday with the PAVS outreach session occupying just one room as the daily round of activities in this popular community centre took place. There was a range of enquiries, catering for groups across the board – from toddlers to a retirement club. Requests for funding and governance information were received.
Outreach week provided an opportunity for the PAVS’ Collaborative Communities Sustainable Organisation Development Officers, Vanessa John and Wendy Marmara, to meet with representatives of all sorts of community and voluntary groups in village halls and community centres around Pembrokeshire. Monday was Maenchlochog community hall which was buzzing with activity by 9am. The Cylch Meithrin were in the main hall, a new extension was being built to the rear of the building and the PAVS’ roadshow was based in a committee room. We were given a warm welcome by Sian Rees from the hall committee and met with representatives of different community organisations throughout the day. Some visitors took advantage of the Green Dragon community bus to travel to the venue and the local shop provided a welcome lunchtime stop.
The Friday venue was Curtis House in St Davids where enquiries included looking at trading options with an organisation which wants to diversify its work and funding sources. Another group wanted advice about involving new volunteers in their work. The number of funding enquiries was striking and these were followed up in a variety of ways – through Grantfinder searches and individual discussions. It was a pleasure to meet so many people – on their patch – and it is clear that voluntary and community groups are as busy as ever.
The Tuesday venue was Kilgetty and Begelly Community Centre where community representatives were preparing for work at the flourishing community garden, which can be enjoyed from the roadside as well as providing pleasure to local residents. Representatives from Saundersfoot, Carew and Pembroke were among the appointments that day. Funding concerns were uppermost but there were also questions about trustee training and other governance issues.
Many are meeting the challenge of reduced funding options by looking at ways to become more enterprising such as extending facilities to raise revenue through lettings as well as thinking of new ways of engaging a wider range of people in their activities. The Collaborative Communities initiative has been part funded by the EU’s Convergence European Regional Development Fund through the Welsh Assembly Government.
Yr Hen Ysgol at Dinas was the Wednesday venue and here the local Cylch Meithrin were also busy. The old school committee is very active and the venue has a growing diary of events. Representatives from surrounding 12
Funding Events BBC Children in Need Surgeries 2011 The BBC Children in Need national funding officer, Andrea Powell, met with six voluntary and community groups in specially organised funding surgeries at the PAVS’ offices on Tuesday 8 February 2011. Groups took advantage of the 45 minute one-to-one surgery sessions to discuss their proposals in detail. Andrea was impressed with the work that had been put into some of the applications and was able to give further guidance so it’s fingers crossed for those who submitted applications in April. The focus of the fund is projects that involve disadvantaged children and young people under 18. The next deadline is July 15th. Find details of Children in Need grants at www.bbc.co.uk/pudsey/grants/apply.shtml
PAVS Funding Fair 2011 – advance notice
Watch this space…the date for the next PAVS’ Funding Fair will be published in the next newsletter. This ever-popular event in the PAVS calendar will take place in October/ November 2011. If you are interested in receiving further information then please register for up-dates at development@pavs.org.uk and we will send you notification of the date and further details
Funding News of the event.
www.environment-wales.org/grants
The Welsh Environment and Sustainability Minister has announced details of the Supporting Sustainable Living Grant Scheme, designed to provide funding for projects to promote a more sustainable and lower carbon lifestyle.
Stage 1: Project Development Grants; Stage 2: Implementation Grants and Stage 3: Replication Grants.
BT is hoping to expand the online giving market via the launch of its web fundraising offering myDonate, which joins online marketplaces such as Justgiving and Virgin Money Giving, but is the first to offer the service for free. MyDonate will enable charities to fundraise through the platform and attract regular and oneoff gifts in the tradition of JustGiving, promising to funnel 100% of donations to charities. Unlike JustGiving which charges a £15 monthly fee to charities and takes 5% commission, or Virgin Money Giving which involves a £100 set-up fee and a 2% commission, myDonate will only charge charities credit card processing fees charged at a lower or equal rate to its competitors. Five charities have worked with BT to develop the site, and a further 10 have joined BT as launch partners.
Information about the new scheme will be made available through Environment Wales. For more information visit their website:
In 2010 the total donated to charity in the UK was estimated to be £10.6bn, but only 7% of that was online, according to the Charities Aid Foundation.
New Scheme Launched to Support Sustainable Living in Wales
New fundraising platform myDonate gives 100% to charity
The value of the scheme is £250,000 and it will be made available to all sectors within Wales. Grants of £5,000 to £15,000 are available, with grants of £35,000 being available in exceptional circumstances. Up to 50% of project costs may be supported; however 75% may be made available in exceptional circumstances. There are three stages:
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Funding Events Carbon Trust and Siemens Launch £550 Million Green Finance Initiative A joint partnership between the Carbon Trust and Siemens was announced in April. It is designed to provide UK businesses with green equipment finance worth up to £550 million over the next three years. It will enable UK businesses to invest in cost effective energy efficiency equipment and other low carbon technologies, such as new efficient lighting and biomass heating.
Efficiency Financing can fund a wide variety of costs. Projects that may qualify include building technologies, such as pipe insulation and air conditioning, or industrial process technologies, including compressed air, refrigeration or specialist production equipment. The financing may also be used to fund combined projects, such as replacing heating and lighting. The scheme is available to all kinds of businesses and organisations operating in the UK, from sole traders and partnerships through to large corporate enterprises, local authorities and other public sector organisations.
Loans and other financing options will be provided to fund equipment that can lower energy bills, with payments calculated so that they may be offset by the anticipated energy savings. Financing can be arranged from a minimum of £1,000, with no upper limits. Energy
Applications may be submitted at any time. For more information visit: www.carbontrust.co.uk
Gift Aid News
More than a third of charity grant applications were ineligible, study shows
Measures announced in the April Budget included good Gift Aid news. The Gift Aid benefit limit was increased from £500 to £2,500, subject to the 5% limit, with immediate effect. This will enable a more effective stewardship of substantial donors by charities – guidance is to be published on this. This change, however, avoids the sensitive area for charities of Gift Aiding membership fees which can often fall foul of the existing benefits rule. Another bit of news is that charities will be able to claim Gift Aid on up to £5,000 of small donations per year from 2013, without the need for Gift Aid declarations. Further Gift Aid changes include a modernised system of online filing from 2013, which will also save charities time and money in processing Gift Aid – this is possibly the most significant reform seen in recent years. Also, an investigation into Payroll Giving increases is to take place. The introduction of the 10% legacy gift incentive in return for reduction on Inheritance Tax could prove extremely beneficial for charities promoting legacy fundraising.
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 grantmakers concerned The report was based on research into 2,500 charitable funders, who 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. The data raised questions for both foundations and fundraisers, said Ben Wittenberg, director of policy and research at the DSC. “Many of these applications result from fundraisers mailmerging an application and sending it off to many funders,” he said. “But more worrying is when they result from foundations not offering clear guidance on their websites. A lot of foundations 14
Funding News & PAVS’ Grants Institute of Fundraising consults on revised code on cash donations
put out very poor guidance. They aren’t clear about what they want to fund and how their application process works, leaving it up to the prospective applicant to guess.” But he said the data was less discouraging than he had feared. “When we carried out a survey of applications for Government funding two years ago, 52 per cent were ineligible.”
The Institute of Fundraising has opened a consultation on its revamped Code of Practice on the handling of cash donations, which includes sections on card and electronic transactions for the first time. The code contains sections on cheque donations, the use of debit cards, taxeffective giving and electronic transactions and guidance when using tills.
European Commission An interim arrangement will be set up by the The Cabinet Office and the Big Lottery Fund to deliver the functions of the Big Society Bank while it awaits approval from the European Commission under state aid rules. The bank will lend money secured from dormant bank accounts to support retail lenders working in social investment, but the Commission must agree that this does not contravene state aid rules. These rules say that governments must not give undue advantage to a particular business sector. European Commission approval is not likely to be secured by the time the first funds become available, expected to be the middle of this year. It is understood that the £200m invested in the Big Society Bank by four high-street banks would be invested on a permanent basis.
The name of the Code has been changed to Handling of Cash and Other Financial Donations to highlight the changes.
Fundraising Standards Board Survey The Board has published the results of a survey in which donors were asked to indicate which factors concern them about charity fundraising. The most common concerns are: • Not knowing how donations are spent (68%) • Whether charities are accountable to fundraising best practice (59%) • Administration and fundraising costs (59%) Check out the results on www.frsb.org.uk
PAVS’ Grants Cashback site Pouring Pounds offers ongoing referral income Pembrokeshire Impact Fund PouringPounds.com is a new cashback website which enables charities to earn income from their supporters’ online shopping purchases. It offers two methods by which charities can receive income. This is through a cashback donation scheme on each customer purchase or alternatively, Pouring Pounds rewards charities that drive supporters to the site. Through its referral programme, any charity which is signed up to Pouring Pounds will get 10% of the cashback of every user that they recommend, at no expense to the user.
PAVS has received notification from the Welsh Assembly Government of the availability of £50,000 for Pembrokeshire for the continuation of the Pembrokeshire Impact Fund, although the terms of the grant may still be subject to change. The new grant scheme will be basically the same as far as the funding criteria are concerned but £2,000 will be the maximum grant awarded. Voluntary and community groups can apply for capital costs for a project but the scheme cannot fund the running costs of an organisation such as general office equipment. 15
PAVS’ Grants Projects need to show how they address the key themes of community involvement, sustainability and equal opportunities.
Park or that shows genuine support and benefit to communities within the National Park. 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 • And lots more……
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… Deadlines for 2011 / 2012 Friday 20th May 2011 Friday 9th September 2011 Friday 18th November 2011 Friday 17th February 2012 All applications must be received in 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 idea or request support from one of our officers to complete an application form, then just get in touch!
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 complementary 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.
Application packs and further information are available from Lindsay Morgan – development@pavs.org.uk or call (01437) 769 422.
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.
Little Green Grants The Little Green Grant is a local grant initiative supported by the Sustainable Development Fund, which is administered by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority and funded by the Welsh Assembly Government.
Deadlines for 201 / 2012 Friday 20th May 2011 Friday 9th September 2011 Friday 18th November 2011 Friday 17th February 2012
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.
STOP PRESS - STOP PRESS - STOP PRESS
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
COMMUNITY CHEST - NEW DEADLINES Next deadline: Monday 6 June 2011 See www.pavs.org.uk for more details 16
Charitable Trusts Alan Evans Memorial Trust
The GF Eyre Trust
This fund supports land and building conservation projects that result in permanent preservation for the public benefit. Priority will be based on the beauty, historic interest and ecological interest of the land and buildings in question. The trust is administered by Coutts and Co, Trustee Department, 440 Strand, London, WC2R 0QS.
The Trust supports a range of causes throughout the UK with grants of around £1,500 including those relating to medical research, the relief of suffering, animal welfare, religious causes and heritage. Contact: Mr Andrew Richards, Francis Clark Chartered Accountants, Vantage Point, Pynes Hill, Exeter EX2 5FD
National Churches Trust
Ann Jane Green Trust
Funding for repairs to the fabric of and installation of new facilities in churches throughout Britain. Eligible costs include building and repair costs. Funding/ available includes Community Grants of between £5,000 and £25,000 and Repair Grants of £10,000 and above. A number of Repair Grants of £40,000 and above are also available in 2011. The Trust encourages applicants to apply to other funding bodies to demonstrate match funding if possible. Applications must be for buildings in regular use as a place of public worship or with plans to re-open. Applications must be submitted before 1 September 2011. Decisions will be made in May 2011 and November 2011. For further information visit: www.nationalchurchestrust.org
The Trust supports a range of charitable activities including overseas activities and has a wide range of objects that include the alleviation and care of sickness or infirmity; provision of assistance to persons of impaired fortunes; support of children in need. The Trust has also funded animal welfare and overseas development activities. Contact: Wylie and Bisset Chartered Accountants,168 Bath Street, Glasgow G1 2JH
Barclays Community Finance Fund This fund supports organisations that promote access to affordable credit to people who may otherwise access high cost or illegal loans. Priority is given to helping people on low incomes and living in areas where the need for affordable credit can be demonstrated. Applicants must be nominated through various routes: by a Barclays employee; by a financial inclusion champion; by a local authority; by a housing association. More information can be found in the funding section at www.transact.org.uk
The Newby Trust Ltd Supports activities relating to medical welfare to help alleviate physical and mental suffering; education, training and research - bursaries and other educational projects; relief of poverty. A small grants scheme offers around £1,000 to individuals in need. Larger grants of up to £10,000 are available to organisations, registered charities for community projects, refurbishment of community halls and the alleviation of homelessness. Contact: Newby Trust Limited, Hill Farm, Froxfield, Petersfield, Hampshire, GU32 1BQ or e-mail info@newby-trust.org.uk
The Brook Trust
The Trust supports charitable organisations that carry out arts and social welfare activities. The priorities for social projects are: support for parenting; women’s charities; learning activities. More information can be found at www.brooktrust.org
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Charitable Trusts The Portrack Charitable Trust
The Wessex Youth Trust
This Trust funds a wide range of charitable activities including the relief of poverty and need; support for disability projects; arts and culture; environment and heritage; and overseas development. Contact: Mr George Holmes, Associate Director, Butterfield Bank, 99 Gresham Street, London.
The Trust supports a wide range of projects that help, support and advance the welfare of young people around the UK, especially those that supported by the Trust’s patrons, the Earl and Countess of Wessex. More information can be found at www.wessexyouthtrust.org.uk
Lottery Funding Heritage Lottery Fund consults on how to spend increased funding
Big Lottery Fund plans £12m fund for Welsh communities
Look out for results of a consultation by the Heritage Lottery Fund on how it should spend its money between 2013 and 2019 after it was given an increase in funding of £50m a year. The HLF said it would have an increased annual awards budget of about £300m after changes to the way its funding was allocated. The government decided last year that from 1 April this year the share of National Lottery funding for art, heritage and sport would rise from 16.66% to 18% each. In April 2012 this will increase to 20% each. More details can be found at www.hlf.org.uk
The Big Lottery Fund is to launch a £12m grants fund to help county voluntary councils develop projects that will benefit communities in Wales. The programme, called Community Voice, will be launched in June and will offer grants of up to £1m. Under the scheme, CVCs will be expected to work with other organisations and citizens to develop community-led projects designed to meet local needs. For more details log onto www.biglotteryfund.org.uk
National Funding The Communities First Trust Fund (CFTF) aims to support small voluntary organisations that are based in a Communities First area in activities that involve local people and provide a positive benefit in their community. Emphasis is enabling small voluntary organisations to make a difference in the community within the eligibility criteria.
to discuss your project as there are several changes to eligibility criteria and guidelines this year. Information can be found at www.communities-first.org which also has local details under Key Contacts.
Co-operative Community Fund Community Fund grants, between £100 and £2,000 are awarded to community, voluntary, or self-help groups to run projects that meet the following criteria; address a community issue, provide a good long-term benefit to the community, support co-operative values and principles and ideally be innovative in approach. Find more information in the Community Fund section of www.co-operative.coop
Applications are welcome from a range of projects including music and the arts. However, the activities must provide some measure of economic, environmental, social or cultural benefit for people living in a Communities First area. The fund is administered by WCVA and this year’s deadline is 30 November. Contact your local Communities First officers 18
National Funding Chamber Awards - Now Open to Applications
step change in access to volunteering for young people aged 16-25 and especially for disadvantaged young people. The GwirVol grant scheme offers five different strands of funding: Creating Opportunities; Promotions; StreetGames; International and Millennium Volunteers grants. Before applying please check the eligibility criteria. Find more information at: www.gwirvol.org
The 2011 Chamber Awards, which celebrate the success and achievements of businesses around the UK, are now open for entries. Awards are available in a variety of categories including Business of the Year and Most Promising New Business as well as a Green Award and one for Excellence in Customer Service. Entry is exclusive to UK-accredited Chamber of Commerce members and winners may be requested to participate in post-event publicity. The overall winner will receive £50,000, and previous winners have experienced year-round exposure from the awards programme, including appearances on television. The closing date is 24 June 2011. Find more information at: www.chamberawards.co.uk
The Landfill Communities Fund (LCF) Formerly the Landfill Tax Credit Scheme, the LCF is an innovative scheme that enables operators of landfill sites to contribute money to enrolled Environmental Bodies (EBs) to carry out projects that meet environmental objects contained in the Landfill Tax Regulations. The ENTRUST organisation regulates the LCF on behalf of HM Revenue & Customs. Organisations wishing to apply for funding through the scheme need to be registered with ENTRUST. Funding can range from £500 - £500,000 and depends entirely on the individual scheme applied for. The most common way to receive funding is to approach a Distributive Environmental Body (DEB). For more details about Entrust and to view a list of DEBs for Pembrokeshire, log onto www.entrust.org.uk
Clore Poetry and Literature Awards The Clore Duffield Foundation has launched a new funding programme worth £1 million over the next five years, 2011 to 2015. The scheme aims to support organisations and schools across the UK in trying out new ways to engage children and young people, under the age of 19, in poetry, literature and creative writing. Individual awards will range from £1,000 to £10,000. Applications are welcome from: established community groups; not-for-profit organisations. schools and colleges; professional literature, poetry and creative writing organisations, and libraries; other arts/cultural organizations. The deadline for round one is Friday 20 May 2011. Find more information at: www.thenervecentre.org.uk
Lloyds TSB Foundation wants more applications from Wales!
The Foundation is encouraging more applications from charities in Wales. Grants are available to support under-funded charitable organisations that help disadvantaged people GwirVol Youth Led Volunteering in the most deprived areas to play a fuller role Grants in the community of their choice. It will fund running costs, including salaries to ensure that The aim of the WVCA GwirVol Youth Volunteering charities can maintain and develop their core Grants scheme is to support the delivery of a work/services. It will also provide funding for wide range of new volunteering opportunities projects that build on charities’ core work. The in Wales and overseas that will support the 19
National Funding Foundation does not match funds raised, but is happy to consider applications that ask to contribute to a project as one of a number of funders. Applications may be made at any time. The Foundation in Wales is looking primarily at a grant range of £15,000 to £20,000 which will mainly be distributed over two years. It is specifically interested in registered charities with a financial track record, including independently examined or audited accounts recorded on the Charity Commission register of at least one year and particularly those with a turnover of less than £1M. Applicants should check the Foundation’s website for eligibility and seek advice from the Foundation regarding the amount that should be requested. More details can be found at www.lloydstsbfoundations.org.uk
The Open Society Disability Rights Initiative This organisation seeks to address discrimination against people with disabilities and promote their inclusion in society by supporting a rights-based approach to disability. It supports civil society to build networks and mobilize campaigns that advance disability rights through advocacy. The initiative gives priority to efforts that envision collaboration across movements and sectors, combine monitoring and documentation with advocacy and litigation, and seek to strengthen rights, protections and remedies. More information can be found at: www.soros.org/initiatives/rights-initiative
The Millennium Stadium Charitable Trust
The Prince’s Countryside Fund 2011 Round Open
The Trust is keen to target local communities suffering from the greatest disadvantage in Wales, especially those who are tackling social, personal, economic or cultural barriers within their own communities. In particular projects that lead to greater independence and give people more control over their lives will be given priority. The Trust welcomes applications that give people a voice to express their needs and hopes. The Trust is keen to help disabled people to challenge barriers and to be active and visible in their local communities. Funding under Youth Exchange programmes, in addition to these, will be considered under this category The scheme will be open from Tuesday 1st November 2011 until Monday 19th December 2011 to receive applications for local projects. The trustees will meet early March 2012 to award funding to local projects. Therefore projects need to be starting after April 2012. Please note the Trust office has a new address: The Millennium Stadium Charitable Trust, C/o Fusion, The Wharf, Schooner Way, Cardiff Bay, CF10 4EU. More information can be found at: www.millenniumstadiumtrust.co.uk
This Fund has been set up to help rural areas in the United Kingdom to become more sustainable. Focus areas for the fund are: projects to improve the sustainability of British farming in areas of deprivation; projects to improve the sustainability of rural communities; and projects to reconnect people with the countryside. The total amount of funding available in this round will be up to £250,000. The maximum amount for individual projects will be £50,000. The Fund can pay for a portion or the entirety of the costs of a project and applications for capital, project and resource funding will be considered. Applications must demonstrate the support of the community which will benefit from the project and show evidence of consulting the community. The next application deadline is 18 May 2011. More information can be found at www.princescountrysidefund.org.uk
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National Funding PRS for Music Foundation: Awards to Festivals
lasting impact and be able to inspire more community renewable projects. Applicants need to register online and generate as much support as possible on their group’s page because communities with the most support are more likely to be invited through to the next stage of the application process. Deadline is 31 May. More details can be found at www.dom.com/about/community/energyshare
The PRS for Music Foundation’s Awards to Festivals scheme supports festivals in the United Kingdom that are programming new music by UK-based music creators. Grants of up to £3,000 are available to not-for profit festivals with a track record of at least one year. They must satisfy a variety of criteria ranging from projects that challenge musical boundaries by programming ground-breaking music to work that develops new audiences for new music while keeping existing ones stimulated and groups that work collaboratively with other organisations locally or further afield. The deadlines are 8 August and 14 October. More details can be found on the funding page at www.musicfoundation.com
Shell LiveWIRE Awards Young entrepreneurs in the UK are being encouraged to enter the this year’s Shell LiveWIRE Awards, where they could win up to £11,000 for their business venture, as well as gain national recognition. Those who are aged between 16 and 30, in their first year of trading, may apply online for one of up to six monthly £1,000 Shell LiveWIRE Grand Ideas Awards. The overall Shell LiveWIRE Young Entrepreneur of the Year winner will receive the £10,000 prize.The top three Grand Ideas Award winners each month (as per the judges’ scores) will automatically be put through to the ‘Hot 40’ shortlist for the annual awards final, taking place in November. Find more details at www.shell-livewire.org/awards
Energyshare Fund Launched Through the new Energyshare Fund, grants of up to £100,000 are available to give registered community groups in Britain the opportunity to save energy and get involved in sourcing, using and generating their own renewable energy. Projects must be supported by the local community, create a tangible and
PAVS is here to help you There are various funding sources in the UK, from Trusts and Foundations to loans and local funders. This Funding Section provides a snap shot of what is available. 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, using a wealth of experience to add value to this information. Through the Collaborative Communities project, the team can also support groups to explore more sustainable funding sources to supplement the use of grant funding. This is important in an increasingly competitive and changing funding climate. 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
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Training Criminal Records Unit briefing session (CRB Checks, ISA and vetting and Barring Scheme) Following a commitment by the Coalition to ‘review the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) Vetting and Barring Scheme (VBS) and scale it back to common sense levels’, the Government has unveiled proposals for a new scaled back employment vetting scheme and fundamental reform of criminal record checks. This review together with a parallel review of the criminal records regime in England and Wales have resulted in several key recommendations:-
• stopping employers who knowingly request criminal records checks on individuals who are not entitled to them.
• the merging of the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) and Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) to form a streamlined new body providing a proportionate barring and criminal records checking service; • a large reduction of the number of positions requiring checks to just those working most closely and regularly with children and vulnerable adults; • portability of criminal records checks between jobs to cut down on needless bureaucracy; • an end to a requirement for those working or volunteering with vulnerable groups to register with the VBS and
A briefing session was held recently for voluntary organsiations in Pembrokeshire raising awareness on the scope of CRB check eligibility and new developments with the Independent Safeguarding Authority Vetting and Barring Scheme following the VBS review. Information was also provided on new service developments such as e-bulk online application available with WCVA Criminal Records Unit.
The necessary legislative changes to enable the recommendations are included in the Protection of Freedoms Bill, currently passing through Parliament. The Bill, subject to parliamentary approval, is expected to become law by early 2012.
If you missed the briefing session and would like more information then please contact PAVS.
Preparing publicity materials Tutor: Louise Wilkinson Venue: PAVS, Haverfordwest
9 June 10.00am-1.00pm
By the end of this session, participants will: • understand how to get their message across and to whom • understand the basic principles of graphic design • be able to create a design brief • assess work produced and know what to avoid in publicity materials This session will be useful for: those who are new to producing marketing and publicity materials, or those who would like to pick up some new ideas. Please note this is not a publisher / computer class. This session is just £9 for full PAVS members. To book your place contact Louise Wilkinson at PAVS (training@pavs.org.uk / 01437 769422). 22
Training Learning Zone at the County Show – Your Choice, Your Future If you’re coming to the County Show this year (16-18 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. Visitors will be able get advice about learning new skills and gaining qualifications that can help in progressing careers, changing jobs or even find out more about volunteering. “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. 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 a field, Careers Wales West will also be present if people want advice and support about careers.
“Have You Got News for Us?”
BBC Cymru Wales invites you to a workshop to find out more about the newsgathering process If you want to improve the way you get your message across to the media, BBC Cymru Wales are offering a fantastic free opportunity to find out more. In a half-day workshop to be held in partnership with PAVS, senior newsroom staff will discuss the way the BBC Wales Newsrooms operate, the basics of what makes a good news story and hints and tips to help you get your message or success heard. Aled Rowlands from BBC Wales said “We’ve got a good track record of getting stories from the third sector on to TV, Radio and Online, but there can be no doubt that there are fantastic people and stories out there that are not being broadcast. It could be because no-one is telling us about the story, that the story is not being presented in the best way or that you’re not getting it to the right people. This workshop will help address all these issues and more. Of course, I’m sure there’ll be examples of stories that BBC Wales didn’t cover but hopefully, between us, we can examine why that happened”. It will be an interactive workshop with participants asked to describe their experiences with the media, their current approach to getting media coverage and what they intend to do in the future. These real life examples will be used to highlight good and bad practice as a way of developing better communications. The workshop is aimed at the person who has responsibility for dealing with the media or who wants to publicise their project. The last week in September has been earmarked for the workshop with a time and location to be released soon. Please contact Louise Wilkinson at PAVS for more information.
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Volunteering Building capacity with Interns interns already placed. The programme can place graduates for between four weeks and three months on a full or part time basis, with travelling expenses the only cost.
Twenty-two year old Vicky Lovett, from Caerphilly is one of Wales’ latest graduates to find a way into work thanks to WCVA’s third sector internship programme. After studying for a degree in business and marketing, Vicky was matched with an opportunity to become an intern at ContinYou Cymru to co-ordinate and promote a range of the organisation’s events including their annual conference and an international visit. The placement at ContinYou Cymru was created as part of the third sector’s internship programme, which is being managed by WCVA and already seeing organisations across Wales benefit by creating opportunities for new graduates.
Julie Skelton, the programme Co-ordinator said: ‘This is different to volunteering in that internships need to be a single piece of work or a project that can bring real value to organisations while adding something specific to the intern’s CV’. ‘From the feedback we are getting, organisations are very pleased at the ease and speed an idea can be turned into results by having a clear view of what they want from the internship and appointing the right intern.
Ian Bottrill, National Development Director at ContinYou Cymru, told WCVA that creating internships offered third sector organisations a range of benefits. He said: ‘Vicky has brought innovative ideas, new insights, a trained marketing perspective as well as being good company and having a great sense of humour. ‘She is also hardworking, reliable, a self-starter and has got on extremely well with a diverse and widespread team.
‘Other organisations that are hosting internships include WCVA, RNIB, Children in Wales, Vision 21, BTCV and Tai Pawb and the placements involve international development research, website development, film-making and community consultation. The placements are as varied as the needs of the organisation.’ Graduates with a range of skills and interests are keen take internships within the third sector and the programme is being supported and promoted at universities across Wales. If your organisation would like to discuss the possibility of creating an internship, contact Julie Skelton on 02920 436594 or email jskelton@wcva.org.uk
‘This is a great way for an organisation to bring in new skills and capacity while giving talented young people an opportunity to use their knowledge and gain some experience. I’d definitely recommend it.’ Since the launch of the programme, over 100 third sector organisations have created internship opportunities, with 40
Latest vacancies PEMBROKE DOCK SUNDERLAND TRUST General Outreach Assistant Workshop Assistant Archive Assistant Education Assistant Events Assistant Front of House Assistant
DYFED POWYS POLICE Independent Custody Visitor SPAN ARTS LTD Social Networking Volunteer Minute Secretary NATIONAL TRUST STACKPOLE Administrative Assistant
GREEN ACRES ANIMAL RESCUE Shop Assistant 24
Volunteering Pembrokeshire Volunteering Awards 2011 Do you know or volunteer with people who give their time and commitment to volunteering in Pembrokeshire? Do you know someone who has changed their life through volunteering? PAVS runs an award scheme to recognise and celebrate the real difference volunteers make to communities in Pembrokeshire and to themselves. There are 6 categories for nominations: 1. Young Volunteer of the Year Award (Under 25) 2. Volunteer of the Year Award (Over 25) 3. The Mary Sigley Award - where volunteering has made a huge difference to the life of a volunteer 4. Trustee Award 5. Group Award for a group of volunteers working within one organisation (volunteers aged primarily over 25) 6. Youth Group Award for a group of young volunteers within one organisation (volunteers aged primarily under 25) All nominees including winners of the awards will be contacted by PAVS and invited to attend the Volunteers Week Celebration Event on June 7th 2011. For a nomination form contact PAVS’ Volunteering Pembrokeshire on 01437 769422. Why not nominate someone and give them the recognition they deserve?
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Volunteering Come Celebrate National Volunteers Week with PAVS Volunteer Celebration Event and Pembrokeshire Volunteering Awards 2011 Ceremony Venue: Pavilion, Withybush, Haverfordwest Date: 7th June 2011 11am – 3pm This is the main event of National Volunteers Week and is aimed at both Volunteer Managers and Volunteers. There will be a variety of activities happening on the day and we would very much like to see as many volunteers as possible receive a free complementary therapy as a thank you treat for all the hard work and dedication they have given to volunteering. All organisations are invited to bring along their exhibition stands to raise the profile of their organisation and to promote their volunteering opportunities in order to recruit new volunteers. Lunch will also be provided free of charge. The Pembrokeshire Volunteering Awards 2011 ceremony will take place in the afternoon so please nominate your volunteers for the awards. Call PAVS (01437 769422) for a booking form for the event and an application form to nominate your volunteers or go online to the PAVS web site to download them. Please book your places early as the event is usually very well attended. Exhibition Stand at Farmers Market Venue: Farmers Market, Riverside, Haverfordwest Date: Friday 10th June 2011 8-30am - 3pm PAVS’ Volunteering Pembrokeshire will have a large table and stand at the Farmers Market for any voluntary organisations to display leaflets and to be available to talk to potential volunteers as they walk by.
Latest vacancies PEMBROKE 21C COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION Millpond and Holyland Wood Projects – Community Wardens Millpond and Holyland Wood Projects – Practical Conservation Trustee SPRINGBOARD Springboard to Work Support Worker Springboard Support Worker
ELIZABETH FINN CARE Financial Supporter MOTOR NEURONE DISEASE ASSOCIATION Association Visitor Role ASSOCIATION FOR SPINA BIFIDA HYDROCEPHALUS (ASBAH) Newsletter Volunteer Coordinator Befriending Volunteer Event Leader Volunteer Fund Raising Volunteer News and Information Volunteer Welsh Translator Volunteer Policy and Campaigning Volunteer Event Volunteer
PLAY ROUTES Project Assistant / Playworker WILDLIFE TRUST WEST WALES Volunteer Warden on Nature Reserves
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Members News Welcome to the following new full members: Animation Academy Clynderwen Community Hall Chamber Music for All Pembroke Dock Emcompass Group
The Regency Hall, Saundersfoot Steps to Health Steynton Church
Welcome to the following new associate members: Mid and West Wales Chamber
Stackpole Mencap Gardens
will be holding a fundraising craft fayre and plant sale on Sunday 29th May 2011 between 11am and 4pm. Local crafts people from Narberth's 'Pig Street Collective' will be displaying & selling handmade goods - Jewellery, Photographs, Driftwood Art, Jams & Pickles and much more. You will also be able to make up your own hanging baskets & pots - we will supply everything you need, including advice! Just pay for what you use! Admittance is FREE and we look forward to seeing you there. Stackpole Walled Gardens, Stackpole, Pembroke, SA71 5DJ, Tel: 01646 661442
Confidence Building and Employability Skills Programmes Light Spirit UK provides personal development programmes to support people to develop positive living skills and gain self confidence. We are currently able to offer programmes free of charge, subject to eligibility. The three day programmes include: - Developing a positive attitude - Building self confidence - Understanding yourself and your relationship to others - Stress release techniques All programmes include creative exercises for self-awareness. Participants will learn a variety of techniques for positive thinking and self empowerment to live more happily and positively. The workshop style events are for groups of up to 6 participants who will be supported by two facilitators.
All sessions are delivered in line with our Code of Ethics (copy available on request). For further details call 07794 448 320 or email lightspirituk@hotmail.co.uk We look forward to hearing from you! Light Spirit UK is a not-for-profit cooperative company. All facilitators are CRB checked and are appropriately qualified, insured and receive regular supervision.
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Members News Community Transport in Pembrokeshire – helping you get around Do you or your family, friends or neighbours ever have problems getting around the county? If so, then read on ... Pembrokeshire Association of Community Transport Organisations (PACTO) was formed in 2004 as an umbrella body for community transport in Pembrokeshire. PACTO brings together the six main community transport operators in Pembrokeshire: 1. Pembrokeshire Voluntary Transport (PVT) 2. Preseli Rural Transport Association (the Green Dragon Buses) 3. Manorbier Community Transport Association 4. Bloomfield Bus operated by Narberth and District Community and Sports Association 5. WRVS Country Cars 6. RSVP Cars for Carers As a group, we are working together to achieve a thriving network of affordable and high quality community transport services, accessible to all, that are well known and well used by the people of Pembrokeshire. PACTO has a close working relationship with the local authority, who offer booking and administrative support through the community transport Demand Resource Centre. This is an 0800 number, based in the transport unit at County Hall, which handles bookings for dial-a-ride services, for some Country Cars areas, and for Pembrokeshire Minibus Match. Pembrokeshire Minibus Match is a simple minibus “dating” scheme, matching community groups who want to use a minibus with minibus operators. Pembrokeshire Minibus Match draws together minibus operators from all over the county, to help them maximise the use of their own minibus. Community groups wishing to use a minibus are matched with these minibus lenders and the “date” is fixed ... we hope the two parties continue their relationship!! Borrowing groups normally provide their own driver, who should be MiDAS (Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme) trained. We can help with this training, and for groups who have difficulty finding a driver we have a pool of volunteer drivers who may be able to help.
Dial-a-Ride services PACTO is helping local communities and local community transport groups develop dial-aride services wherever they are needed. New services developed in 2010 include the Preseli Hills Bus, Neyland Dial-a-Ride, Kilgetty Diala-Ride, Fishguard Friday Dial-a-Ride, and the Gwaun Valley Dial-a-Ride.
the Preseli Hills, and the Bloomfield bus runs services into Narberth from villages on the eastern Cleddau estuary area. Wherever you are, if you struggle with transport, we are here to help. For further information please call our freephone number – 0800 7831584.
Town Rider services are available for elderly and disabled people in our major towns – Haverfordwest, Pembroke &Pembroke Dock, Milford Haven, Tenby &Saundersfoot, and Fishguard & Goodwick.
Forums for users of all our services are held annually, including an annual community transport forum. This year’s forum will be held on Tuesday14th June at Letterston Memorial Hall, starting at 10.30am. Please join us for this event.
The Green Dragon Bus runs services into Narberth and Cardigan for people living in 28