PAVS Volunteering Pembrokeshire Cordially invites all Volunteer Managers and their volunteers to come and celebrate Issue 50 April 2010 Rhif 50 Abrill 2010
National Volunteers Week 2010 Volunteer Celebration Event (open day - so call in anytime)
3rd June 2010 10am - 3pm The Pavilion, Withybush, Haverfordwest • Free complementary therapy taster sessions to pamper volunteers throughout the day (e.g. Indian Head Massage, Aromatherapy, Reiki and Reflexology) • Free Lunch (to be served at 1 o’clock- please book if required) • Award Ceremony to follow lunch • Voluntary Organisations Exhibition Stands • Activities for Volunteer Organisers • Refreshments served throughout the day
For more information about this free event call PAVS Volunteering Pembrokeshire on
01437 769422 The deadline for the next issue is: Friday 18 July 2010 Email to:enquiries@pavs.org.uk
Contents Foreword page 2 Circuit Riders page 5 Carers page 7 Third Sector News page 7 Charity Commission News page 12 Funding News page 13 Training page 29 Volunteering page 34 News from Members page 35
Foreword At the last time of writing I paid tribute to retiring Chair Nigel Owen and in this edition, I am delighted to welcome the new Chair, Ian Hunter. Ian was appointed by the PAVS’ Board of Trustees through an open recruitment process, as agreed at the AGM in January 2010. Bernie Scourfield was also appointed as Trustee with Special Responsibility (TSR) for Finance. Their appointments secure strong leadership within the Board, which will stand us in good stead over the challenging times that lie ahead. Over the past few months, there have been signs that the recession and changes to funding arrangements – particularly those associated with the public sector – have started to have a negative impact on voluntary organisations in the County. In one case, trustees have decided to wind up their organisation, and there are other examples of well-established third sector groups in the County facing financial difficulties. There is some useful information in this newsletter about Charity Commission guidance for groups who find themselves in a difficult situation but the main message from PAVS is – please pick up the phone and talk to us sooner rather than later. It is vitally important to have robust business plans and funding strategies in place and our Development team can help with this through the regional Collaborative Communities project, which seeks to help third sector groups remain financially viable through social enterprise (trading) activity and mixed economy funding models. It is always easier to look at potential solutions before a crisis hits – although we are also willing to do what we can to help with crisis management if the need arises. As mentioned in previous newsletters, it is important that third sector service providers work collaboratively to deliver their services in as effective and efficient manner as possible. This may mean looking at consortium working (or even full merger in some cases) in order to be able to tender for service delivery across the region – particularly for health-related contracts that will be offered across the Hywel Dda Health Board area (Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion). pavs.org.uk
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The proposal to develop a shared third sector resource centre in Pembrokeshire is one way that groups could consider reducing their overheads by co-locating and sharing premises costs. In addition, it is proposed to establish a social enterprise to deliver support services to third sector groups - finance, personnel, health and safety, premises management, information technology, printing, etc. These services would be available to all voluntary and community groups, whether or not they are co-located in the shared building. A questionnaire to collate baseline information has now been developed with the support of Pembrokeshire County Council and will be published on-line very shortly, with hard copies available on request. One of the interesting things to emerge from the work to date is that a number of voluntary groups are in buildings that they either own or have on a long lease which are not used to full capacity. A potential outcome of the work being undertaken may be that we simply make much better use of existing buildings, as well as setting up a social enterprise to deliver third sector support services. At this point in time, nothing is ruled out so, if you want to move into a new building or if you would like other groups to move into your building, get involved in this exciting project. Just ring me on 01437 769422 or e-mail me on sue.leonard@pavs.org.uk. On the subject of public service delivery, I attended an excellent conference in February organised by WCVA entitled “Achieving Change with the Third Sector: Better Social Care”. In fact, I co-facilitated a workshop at the event with the PAVS’ Health and Wellbeing Co-ordinator, which looked at the potential benefits of the recently established Complex Care Teams in Pembrokeshire (providing an integrated approach to the delivery of health and social care services) and the role of the Voluntary Sector Brokers in bringing in third sector service providers to deliver care plans. The workshop sparked some interesting discussion amongst delegates – it’s good to know that Pembrokeshire is one of the leaders in developing integrated service models in Wales.
Foreword There were some really interesting speakers at the event, most of whom gave powerful examples of service transformation achieved through a co-production approach, which brings together the third sector and the public sector with the citizen and the community at the centre. Co-production promotes equal participation of service providers and users; is built on a model of mutualism and reciprocity; and has the third sector and voluntary action at the heart, rather than on the fringes, of service design. PAVS will be holding events during the year that will present an opportunity to explore this concept further, and has already opened up discussions with public sector partners through the Local Service Board and Voluntary Sector Liaison Groups. In the meantime, if you are interested in finding out more about coproduction in theory and in practice, take a look at the paper published by the New Economics Foundation and NESTA (National Endowment for Science, Technology and the Arts) entitled The Challenge of Co-production: how equal partnerships between professionals and the public are crucial to improving public services. It’s good bedtime reading!
and expectations of both the third sector and the public sector in working together, based on shared principles of integrity, trust and respect. The Compact was first published in 2003 and, although it has been refreshed since that time, members of the Voluntary Sector Liaison Group now feel the time has come for a complete update to reflect the changed environment for joint working and funding arrangements. Hopefully, it will now be possible to extend the Compact to include other statutory partners, particularly the Health Board. The Funding Code of Practice will also be updated as part of this process. The draft Compact and Funding Code of Practice will be subject to consultation, so please take the opportunity to tell us what you think when the consultation period opens. If you would like to receive copies of the current Compact and Funding Code of Practice, please let me know. This edition of Pembrokeshire Voice contains the usual mix of interesting and informative articles, which I hope you will find useful. There are some excellent events happening over the next couple of months – Adult Learners’ Week; Volunteers Week and Carers’ Week – which I hope will be of interest to you, your members and service users. I would particularly encourage you to put forward nominations for the Pembrokeshire Volunteer of the Year awards – it is a good chance to recognise and celebrate the excellent work done by volunteers of all ages across the County.
Members of the Community Planning and Leadership Partnership (CPLP) have now completed work on the Pembrokeshire Community Plan 2010-2025 which will be signed off by Pembrokeshire County Council early in May. This document provides an over-arching framework for public, private and third sector activities across 8 key themes – Wellbeing; Learning; Environment; Community; Economy; Safety; Access (to services) and Housing. To see the Community Plan, follow the links from the home page of the PAVS website at www.pavs.org.uk. As Chief Officer of PAVS, I am a member of the CPLP so please get in touch if you would like further information, or if you have a view that you would like me to express at the Partnership meetings.
Happy reading! Sue Leonard PAVS Chief Officer
Over the next couple of months, the Voluntary Sector Liaison Group will be working on updating the “Pembrokeshire Compact” which sets out clear definitions of the responsibilities
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Foreword PAVS appoints new officers to its Board For the first time, PAVS has used an open recruitment system, recently adopted by members at the AGM, to appoint Ian Hunter OBE, of Fishguard, to be its new Chair. He succeeds Nigel Owen who retired at the AGM after nine years’ service to PAVS. Bernie Scourfield of Lamphey has also been appointed Trustee with Special Responsibility for Finance. Board members elected by the membership at the AGM conducted the appointment process, and the successful candidates were interviewed by a panel of Trustees against a detailed job description and person specification. The appointments are for a minimum period of 3 years but are subject to an annual review of performance conducted by the full Board. Ian is the former Vice Chair of PAVS and is a Trustee of the young persons’ charity, POINT, in Fishguard. He is a Member of Glas Cymru, the holding company for Dwr Cymru/Welsh Water, and of the Court of Cardiff University. He is also the Lifeboat Operations Manager of Fishguard Lifeboat. Bernie is also a former Trustee of PAVS and has a strong background in public sector finances. He is a Chartered Public Finance Accountant having spent most of his career in local government, as well as direct experience of charity finances through his work with voluntary organisations. Latterly, he has operated freelance in the small business sector. Sue Leonard, PAVS Chief Officer, welcomed the appointments: “The Board of PAVS must be congratulated for its forward-thinking and innovative approach to ensuring that the Association has strong leadership. We remain 100% committed to delivering a wide range of high quality services to voluntary and community groups in Pembrokeshire, and good leadership is key to our future success, particularly in the difficult times that lie ahead.” One of the first jobs for the new Chair, supported by a nominated Trustee from the Board, was to conduct interviews for the post of Vice Chair. These have recently taken place and a formal announcement will be made shortly. This brings the PAVS Board up to full strength, with 7 elected members and 3 appointed members, plus a Special Advisor nominated by Pembrokeshire County Council. It is interesting to note that a number of other County Voluntary Councils across Wales are planning to adopt a similar process of election/appointment to their Boards, recognising the importance of strong leadership in the difficult times that undoubtedly lie ahead. If you are considering making any changes to your Board, the PAVS Development team are happy to help – just get in touch! Ian Hunter, Chair of PAVS
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Circuit Riders FREE ICT WORKSHOPS Digital technology – such as mobile phones, computers and the internet - is becoming an important part of our everyday lives. However, there are many people who live and work in Wales who are missing out on the benefits of new technology. As part of Communities 2.0, a Welsh Assembly Government project which helps community groups, voluntary organisations and social enterprises, PAVS will be offering FREE ICT workshops to groups working in priority areas.
We would like you to tell us what you are most interested in. Please complete and submit the questionnaire on our website page at www.pavs.org.uk/support/ict/index.htm For more project information visit www.clickconnectdiscover.org
iPad for Charities & Community Groups With Apple’s new iPad coming at the end of the month we’re already asking questions about how Pembrokeshire’s 3rd Sector could benefit. We’ve already seen charities riding the iPad wave with their fundraising. The Mando Group in Liverpool are running a £2 raffle that will earn them over £9,000 in April but what about groups who need a convenient way to get online anywhere in the county or new and easy ways of introducing clients to the power of the internet? For people new to computers we think its simple and easy-to-access touch interface could be much more appealing. Netbooks are fatter, thicker and clunkier and cost about the same but with the iPad there’s no waiting for it to load up or fear of it crashing and losing your files, and there are no viruses. Also, since one application has one function, it’s much easier for people to learn to use. For groups with remote workers, it looks like a useful way to take the internet on the move and to keep up with emails, and with the 150,000 Apps that it runs you can have SatNav, Office Documents, photos and videos to show your clients, and even control your entire work computer when you’re out and about. The biggest question for us though is - will it work on Pembrokeshire’s 3G network?
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ICT Street View goes National Last Spring we wrote about Google’s online Street View service that was starting to become available outside of the USA and covered most of the major British cities such as Cardiff and London.
For outreach workers, there is much to be said about casting an eye over the areas you need to visit and getting familiar with parking options etc before even leaving home. If you have visitors coming to meet you from out of town, it’s really easy to send them a link from Google showing exactly how to find you and which roads to use.
As from this spring, Google have completed mapping the whole of the UK and just about every city, town, village and street is now available to view online.
Street View is a free and easy service that shows you what is where and gives you an interactive preview of what you will find when you get there.
This can be really useful for checking directions for meetings, looking up the best routes for travel, researching possible venues for events and generally getting a real time view of what is where. If you have had to find a venue for an event in the past without being sure of what it looks like, a quick look at Street View shows you if it’s clearly visible to visitors and what the extent of access is or isn’t?
Not everyone likes the idea of Street View - but it certainly has its uses!
Knit your way to your own website? Pembroke Dock Encompass Group is a small group of people who like to get together, socialise, be creative and most of all raise funds for other organisations. The ladies in Pembroke Dock knit, sew, hold raffles, and have great fun at fetes with their stalls whilst creating a fun and sociable environment for their members to get together.
If you think that your group or organisation
could benefit from some ICT support and is either located in or delivers services to one of the priority areas that Communities 2.0 are working in, pleased get in touch on 01437 771197 or visit our page on the PAVS website at www.pavs.org.uk/support/ict/index.htm
So far, they have raised money for the local Sea Farers, Wales Air Ambulance and the Blue Peter appeal. In order to publicise what they are doing, increase the number of members and hopefully bring in donations of wool and other materials, the group have been working to develop their own website, learning some valuable new skills on the way. The group have benefited from the Communities 2.0 project, an ICT project that helps community groups, voluntary organisations and social enterprises in Wales to benefit from technology.
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With support from this project the group are now the proud owners of www.pembrokedockencompassgroup.org. uk and are busy updating their new website regularly with the latest news of their activities.
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Carers Carers Week will take place from 14 -20 June 2010 The theme of Carers’ Week this year is ‘A life of my own’. Thousands of events and activities will take place throughout the UK to highlight and celebrate the contribution that carers make, to raise awareness and reach hidden carers. Nationally Carers Week is run by a partnership of ten charities: Carers UK, Counsel and Care, Crossroads Caring for Carers, Independent Age, Macmillan Cancer Support, MS Society, Parkinson’s Disease Society, The Princess Royal Trust for Carers, Vitalise, and WRVS. In Pembrokeshire: So far 4 local GP Practices and 6 Voluntary Organisations have signed up to organise events for carers in Carers’ Week. The Carers Development Worker at PAVS is working in partnership with other voluntary organisations in the county and plans to organise 3 road shows in town centres and at supermarkets across the county. There will also be a Carers’ Day where carers and other professionals have an opportunity to meet, where carers can share their views, highlight their needs, get information and be pampered. _______________________________________________________
Third Sector News Charitable Incorporated Organisations – further delays The introduction of the Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) is to be delayed again and is not expected until late this year or early 2011 as there is now insufficient time for the necessary legislation to go through Parliament before the election. When it becomes available the CIO will give charities the benefit of limited liability status without the need to also have a company structure registered with Companies House. Even when the CIO does become available, the regulations relating to it are likely to be relatively complex and untested. The Charity Commission is also likely to phase in its introduction so it will not initially be available to all charities. Converting into an incorporated structure is one of the most important ways in which a charity can protect its trustees. Some charities have been putting off incorporating while they wait for the arrival of the CIO, and in so doing are leaving their trustees potentially exposed to personal liability. This further delay and continued uncertainty about when the CIO will become available means that unincorporated charities considering incorporation should think about incorporating immediately as charitable companies limited by guarantee rather than waiting for the CIO. It will be possible to convert either a charitable company or an industrial and provident society into a CIO at a later date if the CIO proves to be a preferable model.
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Charity Commission News Commission publishes guide for trustees with learning disabilities The Charity Commission has published a guide for trustees of charities who have learning disabilities to assist them in understanding their role. ‘Being a trustee’ has been produced in Easy Read format by the Commission in partnership with the learning disability charity Mencap and in response to calls from the sector to produce such a guide. The Easy Read guide covers many of the key aspects of the Commission’s existing CC3 ‘Essential Trustee’ guidance and is intended to be used by trustees with learning disabilities. Easy Read format is becoming more widely used by organisations to support and include people with learning disabilities. The guide follows the format of Easy Read with communicative images, easy words and larger text, and highlights where trustees may need further assistance with more complex aspects of being a trustee. The guide is being distributed to learning disability charities and members of the Learning Disability Coalition. The Easy Read guide can be found at www.charitycommission.gov.uk. Large print, Braille and audio versions can be made available on request. _________________________________________________________________
The dog ate my accounts (and other reasons for non-compliance) Last year the Charity Commission’s Wales office began a campaign to improve the accountability of charities in Wales as figures showed consistently lower compliance rates than in England. Charities with an income over £10,000 are legally required to complete and submit an Annual Return. If the charity’s income is over £25,000, trustees also need to submit accounts and a copy of the Trustees’ Annual Report (TAR). All documents must be submitted within 10 months of the charity’s financial year end. If documents are not received on time the charity’s entry on the public register is clearly marked in red to show they are not complying with their legal requirements. As a result of the campaign the compliance rates for charities in Wales have improved in the last year meaning they are more transparent and accountable to their donors and beneficiaries. However, the Charity Commission is continuing with its campaign to encourage charities to file early and keep out of the red. During its campaign, the Charity Commission has heard a variety of reasons for not complying on time, including, genuinely, the one in the headline. To help trustees, here are a few of the most common issues and how they can be avoided: “We haven’t had the AGM yet but will send them as soon as possible after the meeting” Unless the charity’s governing document specifically requires adoption or approval of the accounts and reports there is no need to wait for the AGM before filing with the Commission. If the governing document does require approval of the accounts at the AGM and this is close to the compliance deadline, it may be possible to change the date of the AGM using either the amendment provisions in the governing document or by using the statutory power of amendment. (continued on page 9)
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Charity Commission News “You didn’t send us a form this year” Paper forms are no longer routinely sent as all the information can now be submitted online. The Commission’s online services provide a quick and easy way to complete the annual return, update trustee information and change charity details. All that’s needed to access the online services is a password which can be ordered from the website via the online services home page at www.charitycommission.gov.uk. Charities will receive a notice (by post or e-mail) as soon as possible after the end of their financial year inviting them to complete their form online. If a paper form is needed, do not leave it until the last minute before requesting one. A pre-printed form could take up to 7 working days to be generated and posted by which time a submission could become overdue. A form can also be ordered from the online services home page. Alternatively, you can call the ordering service on 0845 045 4002 (8:30am to 5:30pm, Monday to Friday). “I thought the accountant had sent the accounts/ The accountants have had them for months now” The responsibility for filing rests with the trustees. If the charity’s accountants, auditors or independent examiners are filing on your behalf then make sure this responsibility is communicated, recorded and clearly understood. Set a deadline when you expect the accounts to be filed and check that it has been done. “The trustees are abroad/not available at this time of year and can’t sign the accounts/ report” Careful planning is the key to producing a timely, good quality trustees’ report and set of accounts. Successful charities prepare a timetable well before the year end and make key decisions before the process of preparing the accounts starts. Remember charities have 10 months to submit the accounts and annual report – you don’t have to wait until the last month to do it! “We have submitted them but the Commission hasn’t received them” If you are completing the information online you must remember to click on ‘Submit’. You will then receive an e-mail confirming receipt of your online Annual Return or Update. It usually takes 24 hours after online submission to update the charity’s entry on the Register of Charities. You can check this by going to the online Register of Charities at www.charitycommission.gov.uk and searching under the charity’s registered number. Charities submitting documents by post should allow up to a week at the busiest times (October – January) when checking receipt on the Register. Very occasionally there can be problems with postal delays which is why the Commission recommends that charities use their online service. It is important to submit your accounts and report to the Commission on time, as late submission is highlighted on the public register of charities. The Register can be viewed by everyone, including potential funders, donors etc. Therefore it’s important to show that your charity has the capacity to comply with the regulatory requirements. Accruals accounts pack for small non-company charities The Charity Commission has produced a new ‘accruals accounts pack for small non company charities’ to help Treasurers and Trustees of smaller charities prepare their accounts. It consists of a pro-forma layout (pdf or Excel) with accompanying completion notes. Visit www.charitycommission.gov.uk/Publications (Source: VolResource Newsletter no. 425) 9
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Charity Commission News Public sector cuts could create financial black hole for thousands of charities in England and Wales. The key findings of the survey of 1,010 charities, carried out by MVA Consultancy, include:
- 59% of charities now affected by downturn, up from 38% in September 2008 Recent research published by the Charity Commission gives a new perspective on the extent to which cuts in public sector spending may affect larger charities in England and Wales when many public service delivery contracts between charities and public sector bodies end in March 2011. These figures are from the Commission’s latest Economic Survey of Charities, the largest representative survey on the effect of the downturn on charities. The independent research shows that almost a quarter (24%) of charities with an income of £100,000 or more consider public sector funding to be their most important source of income.
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59% of charities report having been affected by the downturn, up from 38% in September 2008 and 56% in September 2009. Of those affected, 62% have experienced a drop in income.
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Larger charities have been hit hardest, with 79% feeling the impact of the downturn and a third seeing an increase in demand for services. These charities are also more likely to predict a decrease in income than small and medium charities, with 28% anticipating a drop in funds compared with 14% of small and 16% of medium charities.
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This disparity is also reflected when looking at the steps that charities have taken in response to the downturn, with 79% of the largest charities putting measures in place, compared to 31% of small charities.
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Yet, 84% of all charities said they were optimistic about the outlook for the next year. This figure has increased from 69% expressing optimism six months ago.
Dame Suzi Leather, Chair of the Charity Commission, said: “Clearly severe cuts lie ahead in both local and central government resources; many local authorities are already identifying spending on the voluntary sector as being vulnerable. There is a real concern that charities which receive money from the public purse to fund their valuable work could find themselves at a financial cliff edge in March 2011.”
The Commission has compiled the information charities need in order to understand, prepare for and react to the changing financial situation in a section of its website – www.charitycommission.gov.uk
The Charity Commission’s fourth Economic Survey of Charities demonstrates the continuing effect of the recession on charities
Are you worried that your charity might be insolvent – What should you do? The economic situation has reduced the income of many charities whilst demands on their services and expenditure are rising. Some trading charities have seen income from sales decline and loan finance has become more expensive and harder to access. What should your charity do if it finds itself in financial difficulties? pavs.org.uk
Here are some key questions to ask. Are we insolvent? Broadly, a charity is insolvent if it is unable to pay its debts. Most trading charities are charitable companies limited by guarantee. These are subject to the Insolvency Act 1986, which sets out two tests of insolvency: (contintinued on page 9)
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Charity Commission News • Can the charity pay its debts as they fall due? This is called the ‘cash flow’ test. • Are the assets of the charity less than its liabilities, including its contingent and prospective liabilities? This is known as the ‘balance sheet test’. Unincorporated charities technically cannot be insolvent, as they have no ‘legal personality’ so do not incur liabilities on their own behalf. Instead, liabilities of unincorporated charities (such as charitable trusts) are liabilities of their trustees personally. What might happen if we are insolvent? If a charitable company fails either test of insolvency under the Insolvency Act 1986 its creditors may present a petition to the Court requesting that it be liquidated. If the assets of an unincorporated association are less than these liabilities, creditors can pursue the trustees personally to recover their debts. Limited Liability? Where a charitable company is liquidated due to insolvency, its assets will be distributed to its creditors. If these are not sufficient to discharge its debts, creditors generally will not be able to pursue the directors (or trustees) personally, as the charitable company will have limited liability. However, the protections of limited liability are not absolute. Directors can be made to contribute from their own personal assets in certain circumstances. In particular: • Fraudulent Trading: Where the directors knowingly carry on the company’s business with intent to defraud creditors, or for any other fraudulent purpose. • Wrongful Trading: Essentially, where the directors recklessly or negligently allow the company to carry on trading when any reasonable person would have concluded that there was no reasonable prospect of the company being able to avoid insolvent liquidation.
steps to minimise the losses of the company’s creditors. This means that the directors’ primary duty will no longer be to act in the best interests of the charity in pursuit of its charitable objects. Instead, they will now be duty bound to act in the best interests of creditors. Practical Steps If the directors of a charitable company are worried that the company might be insolvent they should immediately take the following steps and take control: • Quickly establish an accurate picture of the company’s financial position. • Hold regular meetings of the directors to monitor development of the company’s financial position. Discuss how to protect the interests of the company’s creditors and keep detailed minutes of any meetings to demonstrate that reasonable steps to have been taken protect creditors. • Endeavour to stop incurring further liabilities. To protect the directors from a claim of wrongful trading, their actions must be reasonable, as viewed from the standpoint of a reasonable director. • Take appropriate legal advice and make sure that it is confirmed in writing, to demonstrate that the directors have acted reasonably and responsibly. • Get creative! Consider less obvious ways of improving the charity’s finances, such as by approaching possible merger partners. The current economic climate has left many well managed charities facing financial difficulties. If you are one of them, you are not alone. There is much guidance available to help you steer your charity through these tough times. The Charity Commission’s information sheet CC12 “Managing Financial Difficulties and Insolvency in Charities” is a good first point of call.
Source: Bates Wells & Braithwaite
How can we avoid wrongful trading? If the directors of a charitable company know, or ought to know, that there is no reasonable prospect of avoiding liquidation, they must be able to show that they took all reasonable 11
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Charity Commission News Can you save money and make a difference? Before you start to work out how to reduce CO2 usage, first find out if your current energy bill bears any resemblance to what you actually used.
As energy brokers to the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations, Charity Finance Directors Group, Charity Buying Group and more, Utility Aid has worked in the not-for-profit sector for the last ten years reducing bills, controlling costs and helping our clients to make a difference. They are a bespoke organisation designed to work at your pace and to talk in your language. What is even more remarkable, as a charity, you are eligible for a free, no obligation energy audit to start you on your way. So call Lotte on 0808 178 8170 (free phone) or visit www.utility-aid.co.uk.
• 65% of charities pay annually on estimated billing • 15% of charities are on the wrong profile • 5% of charities pay the wrong bill or indeed get no bill at all Utility Aid will help you understand your actual energy usage, check exactly what you are paying for, and then advise on how to really make a difference both to you and the planet, whilst also offering a pathway into the realms of the wholesale energy market.
DATES FOR THE DIARY: The Development team at PAVS are giving plenty of warning to voluntary groups within the county about the dates for the annual ‘Summer Outreach Surgeries’ which will be taking place during the second week of July from the 12th until the 18th. Development Officers will be available to meet with groups for 1:1 surgeries at a range of venues throughout the county. The exact dates for each venue have yet to be decided but, once confirmed, will be available on the PAVS website and in the next newsletter. For further information call the Development team on 01437 769422.
Charity Law Conference - 20 May 2010 The programme for WCVA’s Annual Wales Charity Law Conference has now been finalised. Uncertainty hangs in the air. Public sector spending cuts are anticipated, yet their timing and extent are unknown.
An employment law update • Breakout sessions on data protection, trustee payments and improving governance • An introduction to the Charity Tribunal and Fundraising Standards Board
There’s plenty of anxiety, lots of rumour, and probably not enough fact about dealing with the funding and regulatory challenges ahead
The Wales Charity Law Conference will be held at Cardiff City Stadium on 20 May 2010. The Trustee Conference will be held in Wrexham on 11 November 2010. Booking forms for the Wales Charity Law Conference are available from WCVA’s Helpdesk on 0800 2888 329 or by visiting www.wcva.org.uk.
The conference will help you take stock, examine risk and anticipate change. It will also offer: • Practical guidance on managing risk and insolvency pavs.org.uk
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Funding Events Regional Funding Fair 2010 The second South West Wales Regional Funding Fair will take place on Tuesday 8 June 2010 at the new Ffos Las Racecourse in Carmarthenshire. This free event will start at 10am and run through to 4.30pm. It is important for charities, community groups and voluntary organisations of all types to keep upto-date with changes in the funding world, especially in these uncertain times. After the success of the first Regional Funding Fair in 2008, it was decided to run another event so that third sector groups can access and benefit from free information and advice from national and regional funders. Further details regarding exhibitors, guest speakers and workshops will be announced in the coming weeks. The event is free with free parking at the venue. Refreshments will be available to purchase throughout the day. This is a limited capacity event and booking is advisable. Booking forms are available on the Regional Funding Fair website or from the PAVS office on (01437) 769 422 or via e-mail development@pavs.org.uk. Places must be reserved by Friday 4 June, otherwise bookings will be taken on the day. The Regional Funding Fair is a partnership project between the Local Authorities and County Voluntary Councils of Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, Swansea and Neath Port Talbot. For the latest news and to book your place visit www.regionalfundingfair.co.uk Find the Regional Funding Fair 2010 on Facebook.
PAVS Funding Fair 2010 Watch this space‌the 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 2010. If you are interested in receiving further information then please register for updates at development@pavs.org.uk and we will send you notification of the date and further details of the event. Register for up-dates at development@pavs.org.uk.
Funding News Government asked to clarify Gift Aid plans for end of transitional relief The Government has been urged to announce, as soon as possible, how it intends to protect charities from the loss of income from Gift Aid once transitional relief ends in 2011. This transitional Gift Aid relief was introduced in last year’s Budget in response to the cut in the basic rate of income tax. Government research into the effect of charitable tax relief on donors, which will inform thinking on Gift Aid, will be published in the autumn. The Charities Aid Foundation said they were pleased that Gift Aid was being discussed at the highest levels of Government. 13
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Funding News Institute of Fundraising to revise code of practice on cash donations The Institute of Fundraising will revise its code of practice on cash donations and is putting together a working party of charity staff to draw up the new guidance. The code applies to charities handling cash from fundraising events, appeals, ticket sales, raffles and shop trading. It is anticipated that a draft version of the new code will be completed by autumn this year and the final publication is expected to be ready by the beginning of next year. It is likely that much of the code will remain similar to the current version but lawyers have suggested the parts of the code that explain what is mandatory and what is best-practice guidance should be revised. _____________________________________________________________________________________
A Clearer Picture of the Funding Environment…for the Environment The fourth edition of ‘Where the Green Grants Went’ published by the Environmental Funders Network, analyses a core group of UK trusts and foundations that give for a whole range of environmental causes. One aim of the Directory of Social Change’s Great Giving Campaign is to achieve ‘a clear picture of the funding environment’ and have better information and analysis about where funding is coming from and what organisations and causes it is supporting. DSC feels that it is important for funders to know what other funders are doing to make informed decisions about development of other funding programmes as well as for sound government policy-making and for fundraisers. The report takes a fairly wide view of environmental funding, ranging from cycling campaigns to rhino protection. More ‘traditional’ environmental areas such as wildlife conservation seem to attract the most money, as opposed to projects or organisations that advocate for more radical, system-wide environmental change. ‘Where the Green Grants Went’ is published by the Environmental Funders Network and can be downloaded at: www.greenfunders.org More information about the DSC’s Great Giving Campaign can be found here: www.dsc.org.uk/NewsandInformation/PolicyandCampaigning/GreatGivingCampaign ____________________________________________________________________________________
Co-operative Financial Services to administer unclaimed assets fund Co-operative Financial Services has been appointed to set up and administer the dormant bank accounts reclaim fund that will provide money for new Big Lottery grants and eventually provide the funding cornerstone for the Social Investment Wholesale Bank. The aim of such a bank is to help enable third sector organisations to access the finance they need to grow and become more sustainable. Although currently there is no timeframe for the establishment of the fund, which some estimates suggest could be worth up to £250m, the news that a company has been appointed to manage it suggests there is progress. The Co-operative Financial Services will support the government and industry efforts to take forward the dormant account scheme and will prepare a plan for the establishment of the reclaim fund. The Big Lottery Fund will remain the nominated distributor of the funds that are not allocated for the Social Investment Wholesale Bank, and will distribute the money for social and environmental purposes to groups across England and Wales. pavs.org.uk
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PAVS Grants Pembrokeshire Impact Fund
Little Green Grants
The scheme has distributed £173,554.33 in funding to over 80 groups in Pembrokeshire since its launch in May 2008. The scheme runs until March 2011 with a further £90,000 available in the current financial year.
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.
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… Deadlines for 2010 / 2011 Friday 21 May 2010 Friday 3 September 2010 Friday 19 November 2010 Friday 11 February 2011 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 idea or request support from one of our officers to complete an application form, then just get in touch! Application packs and further information are available from Lindsay Morgan development@pavs.org.uk or call (01437) 769 422.
If you have a project or idea which you think will help you and others in your community to put into practice living in a more sustainable way then the Little Green Grant could offer you some help to get started. 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 one that shows genuine support and benefit to communities within the National Park. 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 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 (continued top of page 13)
Future funding for PAVS-run local grant scheme
PAVS has now received notification from the Welsh Assembly Government of the availability of £50,000 for Pembrokeshire for the continuation of a PAVS-run local grants scheme from March 2011 onwards. PAVS will be making an application for this funding later on the year and further details will be published here. 15
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PAVS Grants 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…
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. The deadlines for 2010/ 2011 are: • Friday 21 May 2010 • 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.
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
GwirVol Youth Volunteering Scheme Almost £.5m available to boost number of young volunteers
There are three types of grants available: Opportunities – which offer project funding of up to £10,000 for activities that deliver a wide range of new and innovative volunteering experiences for young people, either with their own or another organisation.
Wales’ already impressive number of young volunteers is set to be boosted by a £420,000 funding from the Welsh Assembly Government for third sector organisations.
Promotion - project funding of up to £5,000 to promote volunteering to and for young people through promotional events, websites, exhibitions, visits, and other avenues.
The GwirVol Youth Volunteering Scheme is offering grants of up to £5,000. £10,000 and £30,000 to groups with volunteers aged between 16 and 25, with the aim of supporting the delivery and promotion of a wide range of new volunteering opportunities. The initiative is prioritising organisations working with young people from a diverse range of backgrounds, particularly disadvantaged youngsters including those from Communities First areas and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities, young people with physical or learning disabilities, and those not in employment, education or training.
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International - project funding of up to £30,000 for a structured programme of activities that will deliver high quality international volunteering experiences for young people aged 16-25. The GwirVol International Youth Volunteering Grants scheme will support up to 80% of total project costs. Application packs are available from WCVA Helpdesk on 0800 2888 329, by visiting www.gwirvol.org.uk, or by emailing help@wcva.org.uk Applications must be received by 16 June 2010.
Charitable Trusts Lloyds TSB Foundation for England and Wales The Lloyds TSB Foundation for England and Wales has recently announced an increase of £5 million in income for 2010 and that this increase will be sustained for 2011, 2012 and 2013. Further details about the funding available through this scheme is available on their website: www.lloydstsbfoundations.org.uk
Dulverton Trust The Dulverton Trust awards grant funding to charitable organisations in the UK working in the following areas: youth and education; general welfare; conservation; preservation; peace and humanitarian support; Africa. The Trust offers two types of grant: • Major - for charities that operate nationally or across the geographical regions of the UK. Support will normally be restricted to charities whose annual income is below £50 million. • Minor - for smaller charities usually working at local or county level. Support will normally be restricted to charities whose annual income is below £400,000. A fixed sum of money is earmarked each year for these awards and the maximum grant is £3,500. Priority will be given to charities working in areas of severe deprivation or rural isolation. Applications can be made at any time. Website: www.dulverton.org
Healthy Heart Grants This scheme supports innovative projects designed to promote heart health and to prevent or reduce the risks of heart disease in specific groups or communities. They are open to community groups, voluntary organisations and researchers in the UK. Grants of up to £10,000 are available and are for heart health projects only, and not for general healthy lifestyle projects. Projects must focus on, and actively promote, heart health for the duration of the project. Applications are accepted in two funding rounds a year: January and February for the May round of grants; and July and August for the November round of grants. Website: www.heartresearch.org.uk/healthy_ heart_grants.htm
Hedley Foundation The Hedley Foundation awards grants to registered charities in the UK. Its main objective is to support projects concerned with the education, training and health and welfare of young people in the UK. It also funds projects providing support for carers of disabled people and the terminally ill, and the purchase of specialist medical equipment. The average grant awarded is £3,000. Grants are awarded on a one-off basis and may only be used to cover project costs rather than core, revenue, salary or transport costs. The Trustees meet six times a year to consider grant applications. Remaining 2010 meeting dates are 19 May 2010, 21 July 2010, 29 September 2010, 24 November 2010. Applications must be received at least three weeks prior to a meeting.
Fidelio Charitable Trust
Website: www.hedleyfoundation.org.uk/
The Fidelio Charitable Trust awards grants of up to £5,000 in support of the arts in the United Kingdom, in particular the dramatic and operatic arts, music, speech and dance. The Trustees aim to help individuals and groups who would not be able to carry out a project or activity without financial support, particularly those who are at an early stage in their careers.
The Bodfach Trust
Deadlines are 1 June and 1 October 2010. Website: www.fideliocharitabletrust.org.uk/ index.php
The Trust makes grants to UK registered charities that are involved in a range of activities, including help for disadvantaged young people throughout the UK. Although applications are open to organisations throughout the UK, preference is given to organisations operating in Wales. Website: www.bodfachtrust.org.uk 17
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Charitable Trusts Macmillan - Helping You Help Others Grants
Visible Communities
Funding is available for cancer self-help and support groups across the UK. New and established groups can apply for funding of up to £500 and £3,000 respectively. Funding may be used, for example, for event costs, promotional activities and the purchase of group materials (i.e. computers, laptops and display materials). Applications from new groups are assessed on a monthly basis. Website: www.macmillan.org.uk/ HowWeCanHelp/CancerSupportGroups Or e-mail resources@macmillan.org.uk.
National Churches Trust Grant funding of £2 million for the restoration and modernisation of places of worship in the UK across three separate funding programmes:
The Lankelly Chase Foundation is funding Community Matters to provide bursaries for community organisations wishing to attain visible accreditation. Visible accreditation is a mark of confidence in the work of your organisation, providing recognition for dedicated staff and volunteers. You may be eligible if your organisation is: an independent organisation serving a neighbourhood or community of interest; managing a community building owned or leased by the organisation; funded through a range of incomes (including earned incomes); formally constituted, community controlled, employing at least one member of staff; delivering a range of services and activities; based in England or Wales. The funding is only available until March 2011 and can only be applied for when an organisation is ready to accredit.
• The Cornerstone Programme offers grants of at least £40,000 towards major repair projects with estimated costs in excess of £50,000. • The Foundation Programme offers a range of grants between £2,500 and £39,000 for structural repairs. • The Community Programme awards grants of between £2,500 and £25,000 for the installation of new facilities and any necessary works to enable access to the building and the activities within it.
Website: www.visiblecommunities.org.uk or
The Trust will consider applications from both listed and unlisted places of worship in the UK that are open for regular public worship and where the congregation is a member or associated member of Churches Together in Britain and Ireland. Applications can be made at any time.
Website: www.oxfam.org.uk/applications/blogs/ cymru/2009/12/sustainable_livelihoods
Contact Richard Bridge, tel 020 7520 2773 E-mail
richard.bridge@communitymatters.org.uk.
Sustainable livelihoods approach grant scheme 2009-11 Oxfam Cymru has launched a new grant scheme for voluntary and community groups seeking a better understanding of poverty.
Website: www.nationalchurchestrust.org/
Or e-mail oxfamcymru@oxfam.org.uk
The Bromley Trust The Trust makes grants to UK registered charities which are involved in conservation - in particular to promote sustainability and to develop responsible knowledge of the use of world resources. The current areas of focus are: Deforestation; Land Rights; Sustainability; and Climate Change. Website: www.thebromleytrust.org.uk
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Charitable Trusts The War Memorials Trust The War Memorials Trust is revising its grant application schemes within the UK. The Trust provides grants to repair, conserve and preserve war memorials in their existing form as well as helping to reinstate the memorial to its original design. The Trust does not support work with graves of any kind, nor does it fund the creation of new memorials. The War Memorials Trust has different application guidelines depending on which part of the UK you come from. It must be emphasised that grants are only for the repair, conservation and preservation of existing memorials. The Small Grants Scheme operates within the UK and covers repair and conservation. Grants of up to £2,500 and up to 50% of eligible costs can be made. There are no deadlines and decisions are made at the end of each month. In Wales, grants from the Trust itself are only available through the Small Grants Scheme. In addition the Welsh national heritage organisation Cadw runs several general heritage and conservation grant programmes, some of which are able to support work on war memorials. Websites: www.warmemorials.org and www.cadw.wales.gov.uk
Colwinston Charitable Trust Registered UK charities can apply for varied amounts of funding usually over £5,000 for support for arts and music activities. The Trust supports UK charities to benefit opera/music theatre, classical music, and the visual arts. Though applications are accepted from charities throughout the UK, preference is given to projects carried out in Wales. Website: www.colwinston.org.uk
The Nationwide Foundation small grants programme Small grants can be applied for by registered charities working for the benefit of all older people or survivors of domestic abuse to improve their housing needs and address financial exclusion. The Nationwide Foundation’s Small Grants Programme makes grants every two months. Grants of up to £5,000 are available to registered charities with incomes of under £500,000. The application process is very simple and they pride themselves on processing grants quickly. Website: www.nationwidefoundation.org.uk Email: enquiries@nationwidefoundation.org.uk.
Triangle Trust 1949 Trust Fund UK registered charities can apply for funding for projects that meet the aims of the Trust. These are to help organisations work to: • alleviate poverty and promote good health and welfare • advance education • address charitable purposes as the Trustees may determine (except for the advancement of religion). The current categories for support are: Carers Disability Poverty
Community Arts & Education Older People Integration and Rehabilitation
Website: thetriangletrust1949fund.org.uk
Noel Buxton Trust Small UK registered charities can apply for up to £4,000 for help for children in care. The Trust supports the welfare of children in disadvantaged families and of children in care. Website: www.noelbuxtontrust.org.uk
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Charitable Trusts
Naturesave Trust
The Volant Charitable Trust
The Naturesave Trust has announced that it will now provide start up ‘seed corn’ grants for community renewable energy projects. The Trust is keen to help communities, in particular, those that do not have the initial start-up capital to undertake all the preliminary work to get to the planning stage, and most importantly, for the community to retain as much control as possible over the operating income once the project has been successful. Grants are available whatever type of renewable power generation the community is considering. Applications can be made at any time.
The Trust has two broad areas of funding research into the causes, treatment and possible cures of Multiple Sclerosis and charities and projects that alleviate poverty and social deprivation. The Trust is currently committed to several long-term Multiple Sclerosis research projects and is not considering further applications for funding in this area at the present time. Social deprivation activities should have a particular emphasis on women’s and children’s issues. Website: www.volanttrust.com/index.html
Website: www.naturesave.co.uk
The Brit Trust
Woodward Charitable Trust
Relevant charities and groups from around the UK can apply to the BRIT Trust for support of activities that encourage young people in the exploration and pursuit of educational, cultural or therapeutic benefits emanating from music. The Trust is limited to the amount of donations it can make outside of its existing commitments; nevertheless suitable applications are still sought.
The Woodward Charitable Trust awards grant funding to organisations in the UK working in the following areas: • • • • • • • •
social and ethnic minority groups; prisoners and ex-offenders; homelessness; people experiencing abuse; arts outreach work; disability projects; environmental projects; addiction
Website: www.brittrust.co.uk
The UIA Charitable Foundation
Small grants of between £100 and £5,000 and large grants of over £5,000 are available to UK registered charities with an annual turnover of less than £250,000. The deadline for applications to be considered at the Trust’s July 2010 meeting is 24 May 2010.
Support for a range of activities with up to £1,000 for UK registered charitites or formally constituted groups. The Foundation supports small organisations or groups where a modest grant would make a real difference to managing a project.
Website: www.woodwardcharitabletrust.org.uk/index.html
The activities it will support are those that focus on:
The Enid Blyton Trust for Children The Enid Blyton Trust for Children offers small grants to charities and community groups throughout the UK that support children (under 16) who are in need.
Victims of domestic abuse; Victims of drug and alcohol addiction; Rehabilitation of offenders; Third World poverty and human rights.
Website: www.uia.co.uk/About/Charitable-foundation/
Website: www.charity-commission.gov.uk
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Charitable Trusts King’s Fund/ GSK UK Impact Awards
PRS for Music Foundation Awards to Festivals 2010
Awards that recognise and reward small to medium-sized charities in the UK that are doing excellent work to improve people’s health.
The 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 that: challenge musical boundaries by programming ground-breaking music; develop new audiences for new music while keeping existing ones stimulated; generate opportunities for the creation of new music, e.g. through commissioning, or provision of creative workshops and education projects; work collaboratively with other organisations, either locally or further afield; where working with unsigned/emerging artists, are able to show that their activities provide effective career development opportunities for these artists; and are financially stable and effectively managed.
Each year, an overall winner receives £35,000 and nine other winners receive an award of £25,000 each. Ten organisations will be given highly commended or runner-up status and be awarded £5,000 or £3,000. The Awards recognise excellence in existing work and do not seek to fund new projects. Applications are welcomed from UK registered small or medium-sized charities in operation for at least three years with a total annual income of between £10,000 and £1 million. Applicant organisations should be able to point to a track record of achievement in community health issues. The 2011 IMPACT Awards will be launched 1 July 2010, it is anticipated that the deadline will be September 2010. E-mail: gskenquiries@kingsfund.org.uk Website: www.kingsfund.org.uk/gskimpactawards
The Spring Harvest Charitable Trust The objects of the Trust are to sponsor and finance (by grant or otherwise) projects for the advancement of the following areas within the United Kingdom and overseas: the Christian religion – such as pastoral and evangelical work; education – giving priority where the organisation has a Christian basis; and for such other charitable objects as the trustees shall from time to time determine. The Trust gives priority to applications which demonstrate a link with the theme of the Spring Harvest event. Each year there is a different theme of the offering and for 2010 this theme is Peacemakers Project – intended to support initiatives working to make peace around the world both in the UK and internationally. Website: www.springharvest.org/offerings.
The next closing dates for applications are 9 August and 15 October. Website: www.prsformusicfoundation.com
Children in Need Children in Need has launched a new small grants programme with the aim of seeking applications from organisations that have not applied to Children in Need before. Grants of up to £10,000 a year for up to three years will be available to organisations across the UK working with young people and children. Children in Need can only fund projects that focus on the differences made to the lives of disadvantaged children and young people and is keen to get applications from smaller organisations across the UK that have not previously made an approach to them. There are four application rounds a year for any not-for-profit organisation working with young people and children aged under 18. Decisions are made within approximately 14 weeks of the closing date for each round. The next closing dates are 15 July and 15 October 2010. Website: pudsey@bbc.co.uk or tel: 020 8576 7788 21
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Charitable Trusts The Sir Cliff Richard Charitable Trust
Hilden Charitable Fund - Now Open to Applications
The Sir Cliff Richard Charitable Trust makes quarterly grants to registered charities in the UK. Priority is given to charities working in medical research, with children and the elderly, and those involved with the physically and/ or mentally disabled, though charities which focus on other charitable activities are also encouraged to apply.
The Hilden Charitable Fund awards grants to projects both in the UK and in developing countries, with the aim of addressing disadvantage, particularly in support of causes less likely to attract public funding.
Website: www.cliffrichard.org
• Homelessness. • Asylum seekers and refugees. • Community-based initiatives for young people aged 16-25. • Penal affairs.
Paul Mellon Centre for Studies in British Art The object of the charity is to advance the education in, and the appreciation and understanding of, British art. The centre has two main purposes: to contribute to the understanding of British art, and to act as a research centre for scholars working in this field. The trust awards a variety of fellowships in spring each year. Grants are distributed twice a year in spring and autumn through the following programmes: educational programme grant and research support. Website: www.paul-mellon-centre.ac.uk.
Queen’s Silver Jubilee Trust The aim of the Trust is to support young people in the UK and the Commonwealth particularly in the following areas: advancing education; relieving those who are in need, hardship or distress; assisting children, young people and the elderly with the advancement of their physical, mental and spiritual welfare; providing facilities for recreation or other leisure activities; and advancing other exclusively charitable activities for the benefit of the community.
The Fund’s current funding priorities in the UK are as follows:
Applications are invited from registered charities and other charitable organisations in the UK, although preference is given to charities with an income of less than £200,000 per year. Grants are rarely given to well-funded national charities, as funding is directed largely at supporting work at a community level within the Fund’s categories of interest. The Overseas Countries funding programme is designed to help small and medium-sized community development, education and health initiatives. Trustees will particularly welcome projects that address the needs and potential of girls and women. The Fund will be pleased to hear from UK nongovernmental organisations/charities and hopes that UK NGOs/charities will encourage their local partners, if appropriate, to apply directly to Hilden for grant aid. The deadline for applications is the first week in September 2010. Website: www.hildencharitablefund.org.uk
Website: www.princes-trust.org.uk
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Lottery Funding BIG LOTTERY FUND – Further Response to Recession The Big Lottery Fund (BIG) in Wales has allocated additional funds to assist communities during the recession as part of the package of measures announced during 2009. An additional £2 million is being made available to provide further support to communities across Wales affected by the recession. New Awards A second ‘fast track’ stream of BIG’s People & Places programme specifically dedicated to the recession will be launched, offering grants of up to £50,000 over two years to organisations currently providing services that are supporting vulnerable families and children living in poverty, including (but not limited to) support for the following: • Vulnerable families including those at risk of breakdown, and in crisis • Vulnerable children, including those at risk of offending or already engaged with the criminal justice system • Families and children living in poverty, including food co-operatives, clothes recycling schemes, nutrition and dietary advice • Victims of domestic violence • Young carers • Those affected by substance misuse • Children where a parent is in custody Flexible Grant Management BIG is also continuing to monitor existing grant holders for any sign that the outcomes of their projects may be at risk because of the impact of the recession. Although BIG’s grant management processes are already very flexible, BIG is extending the opportunity for top-up awards to be provided to existing grant-holders where projects are demonstrably at risk as a direct result of the recession. They will shortly be writing again to grant holders with more detailed information about how this works. Priority for Projects Mitigating the Impact of the Recession The final element of BIG’s recession package was to make use of the flexibility of BIG’s existing People & Places demand-led programme. The award-making Committee has agreed to prioritise applications for projects which are likely to support communities to withstand the impact of the recession. This was implemented from the Committee’s September 2009 meeting and has resulted in 5 awards to date totalling £1.13 million to projects which will provide direct support to communities most affected by the recession. Website: www.biglotteryfund.org.uk/wales or contact 01686 611 700.
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Lottery Funding THE PEOPLE’S MILLIONS
Launch of the 2nd Round of Community Asset Transfer Fund for Wales
The People’s Millions 2010 TV contest has been launched with a total budget of £3.8 million across the UK. This year they are looking for new projects that aim to improve local facilities or help people get more out of their area.
The Big Lottery Fund and the Welsh Assembly Government have recently launched the second round of the Community Asset Transfer Fund, providing capital and revenue grants to support the transfer of assets from public sector organisations to community ownership.
Preference will be given to applications for projects which:
A total of £13 million is being invested in communities, helping them transfer, develop, manage, and sustain assets, such as land or buildings, thereby improving neighbourhoods and people’s livelihoods. The primary aim is to help communities become stronger and more sustainable.
• Get more people in involved in their local community • Help those in most need • Are original and imaginative The People’s Millions partnership between the Big Lottery Fund (BIG) and ITV Wales gives the voting public the opportunity to decide which local projects will receive lottery good cause funding. Every night from 22 to 26 November ITV Wales regional news will broadcast films about two projects, and viewers’ phone votes will decide which one wins an award of up to £50,000.
Grants will be awarded up to the value of £800,000, including a combination of both capital and revenue costs. Revenue grants range from £50,000 to £300,000 and capital grants range from £250,000 to £500,000. Assets transferred from public sector bodies will be passed to enterprising organisations that actively involve and benefit the communities they serve, for example, those working towards improving the services and/or facilities. Applications are welcome from cross-sector partnerships comprising at least one third sector organisation (as the lead applicant) and one public sector organisation.
Application is by completing their on-line entry form, and the deadline for applications is 14 May 2010. Website: www.peoplesmillions.org.uk or call: 08450 10 11 12.
Keys to Partnership in Asset Transfers
The deadline for Round 2, stage 1 applications is 30 June 2010.
Community Matters has published ‘A Partnership Routemap’ for the Asset Transfer Unit, as a guide to making the most of partnership in the community asset transfer process. It draws on the experiences of those who have been involved in asset transfers over the last three years - case managers, local authority key players and staff and volunteers from community partners. This will be a useful document for any groups considering applying to the Big Lottery Fund’s Community Asset Transfer Programme.
Website: www2.biglotteryfund.org.uk/prog_ community_asset_transfer
The Partnership Routemap can be downloaded from the web-site. Website: atu.org.uk/Support/toolkits/Partnership pavs.org.uk
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National Funding Community Scale Renewable Energy Generation Funding
Energy Saving Trust Green Communities
Social enterprises in Wales will be able to create their own renewable energy, to use themselves or sell on to the National Grid or to their own communities, thanks to an £8 million grant from the Welsh Assembly Government (WAG).
Green Communities is a programme from the Energy Saving Trust in Wales that aims to facilitate and promote community based energy projects. The focus is on helping groups working at a local level playing a part in cutting carbon dioxide emissions and tackling climate change.
The Community Scale Renewable Energy Generation project - will provide £100,000 to £300,000 per project to support around 22 new and existing social enterprises develop community based renewable energy schemes, such as wind, biomass and hydro power. Around 135 small grants of up to £3,000 will be available to help communities to undertake feasibility studies into potential renewable energy schemes, followed by 35 grants of up to £20,000 to help them develop their projects. For information contact Paul Smith, Energy Saving Trust Wales Programme Manager on 029 2046 8345 or email csreg@est.org.uk. Website: wales.gov.uk
Become a member of the network and benefit from: • Free advice and support including expert consultation for community energy projects • Free training. Courses to improve your knowledge of energy efficiency and show how you can develop your own project • Help with accessing sources of funding • Inspirational stories from online database of projects and case studies • Monthly e-mail bulletins To join, visit www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/ community or call free on 0844 848 0077
Comic Relief UK Grant Programme - Cycle 3 Now Open to Applications 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 investing in work that addresses people’s immediate needs as well as 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 Cycle 3 deadline for applications is 14 May 2010. 25
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Training An Introduction to Recruiting and Keeping Volunteers
24 June 10.00am-4.00pm
This one-day workshop looks at the development of good practice in recruiting and keeping volunteers. It provides information and advice on policies and procedures which are relevant to running a professional volunteering programme including organisational policies that impact on volunteering, marketing, recruitment, induction, training, support and supervision. This session will be useful for: new volunteer managers or existing volunteer managers who would like to improve their skills and knowledge. This session is also useful for trustees of organisatons that manage volunteers. Each organisation that attends will receive a copy of the “How to…Develop a Volunteer Initiative Toolkit” All full day courses include lunch and refreshments, shorter courses will include light refreshments. Full day courses cost £18 and half day courses cost just £9 for full PAVS members. To book your place (via the online booking form) or for more information please see the PAVS website www.pavs.org.uk/training/train_prog.htm Other courses you might be interested in:
PLANED Opportunities for All – Taster Courses Courses include: • • • • • • •
Professional Trainer Certificate - (Accredited) 4 Day Personal Confidence - 2 Day Customer Service Workshop - 1 Day Home Based Child Care - (Accredited) 2 Day Caring for Family Members - 2 Day Basic Book Keeping - 1 Day Budgeting & Personal Finance - 1 Day
For further information contact: Sarah Diment 01834 862107 sarahd@planed.org.uk or Liz Thomas 01834 862113 lizt@planed.org.uk
Forthcoming course available from the WCVA Making assets work 17th May - Swansea Public engagement for the public sector 17th May - Merthyr Trading 8th June - Llanelli Risk management and quality assurance 23rd June - Cardiff Making the best use of data from participative events and consultations 29th June - Cardiff • How to tender 29th June - Carmarthen For further information including course content and learning objectives please visit www.wcva.org.uk • • • • •
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Training Adopt your Path Workshop For Communities wanting to adopt a foot or bridle path in their area PLANED are running a workshop to show you how you could get involved in helping maintain the Rights of Way in your area. The day is hosted by the Newport Paths Group on Saturday 8th May and starts at 9.30am at the West Wales Eco Centre in Newport. Newport Paths Group is celebrating their 10 year anniversary and will share with you how they maintain the paths in their area, and how much fun they have doing it! The workshop will cover: - Volunteer Work Parties - Constitution - Surveying
The Rights of Way Officers from Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and Pembrokeshire County Council will be on hand to answer questions, and there will also be information from support organisations such as Environment Wales, Keep Wales Tidy, BTCV, PLANED and PAVS. There is an optional celebratory walk led by Trevor Fishlock, starting at 2.00pm from the Parrog car park. Please contact Jetske Germing at PLANED on 01834 862111 or jetskeg@ planed.org.uk for more info or to book onto the workshop. Both the workshop and walk are free to attend.
- Insurance - Funding
Do you need some FREE advice from a professional such as a solicitor or surveyor? If you are an organisation working in the third sector in Pembrokeshire your group could benefit from free professional support and advice offered by the South and West Wales ProHelp Network of local professional firms. Started last year, the SWW ProHelp Network is managed by Business in the Community and has already helped groups across the region with the following projects:• Given market information to help with rent negotiations • Offered to provide marketing support to a group hoping to develop new facilities • Provided a Data Protection Policy to help with funding applications Chair of the South and West Wales ProHelp network Phil Jardine, Morgan Cole said: “ProHelp is an excellent initiative which brings obvious benefits to the community group, as well as enabling the business to motivate and develop its staff, while at the same time make a real difference to the local community.” So if you have a query (big or small) please give Catherine Palmer, Business in the Community’s West Wales Co-ordinator a ring on 07715 510 390 or send an email to catherine.palmer@bitc.org. uk. Business in the Community – mobilising business for good
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Training
Roll up, Roll up, for the Learning Market 2010 Riverside Marketplace, Haverfordwest Saturday 15 May 10am-3pm Adult Learners’ Week 2010 is being launched in Pembrokeshire with this Learning Marketplace. Visitors can shop for new learning opportunities and sample what’s on offer during the rest of Pembrokeshire Learning Festival. Spinning, craft, card making, digital photography, recycled clothing, art and IT. There will be plenty going on so don’t miss out – and it’s all free! Sessions being run by local voluntary organisations in Pembrokeshire include: At the Learning Market • Pembrokeshire Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers will be providing a demonstration of traditional hand spinning both using drop spindles and spinning wheels. • Pembrokeshire Federation of Women’s Institutes will be doing some craft demonstrations. • Narberth Scrapyard will be ‘minging to blinging’ - taster sessions to help you to make something out of nothing! Recycled clothing. • PAVS - come and talk to us about any PAVS services, including training and volunteers. • Pembrokeshire U3A will also have a stall promoting their membership
This is the U3A - Open Morning and display of activities Picton Centre, Haverfordwest 15 May 9:00am - 1:00pm U3A Open Morning Display of range of educational, cultural, social and recreational activities available to all Third Agers run by Third Agers. No booking required. Contact: Graham Goodeve 01437 741391 jggoodeve@tiscali.co.uk
Coppicewood College - events throughout the week. Cwm Plysgog Woods nr Cilgerran Fun in the Woods 19 May 2010 10:00am - 4:00pm Monty Donnery Woodland Craft 20 May 2010 10:00am - 4:00pm Wildlife Discovery in the Woods 21 May 10:00am - 4:00pm Wizzard Willow Weaving 22 May 10:00am - 4:00pm Contact: Bruce Slark 01239 881394 bslark@aol.com pavs.org.uk
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Training Pick & Mix Learning Charles Street, Milford Haven 19 May 9:30am - 4:00pm One-stop shop for adult learning in Pembrokeshire – bite sized tasters, displays, information and much more from a wide range of providers. No booking required. Contact: Tina Jones 01437 764869 tinam.jones@pembrokeshire.gov.uk Narberth Scrapyard will be providing taster sessions at this event.
St Davids Bishop’s Palace Learning Festival 20 May 10:30am - 4:00pm Arts, crafts, traditional skills and living history activities including guided tours, history lectures, drop spindling. Free admission to Pembrokeshire residents providing evidence of residency. Contact: Adrienne Goodenough 01443 336142 adrienne.goodenough@wales.gsi.gov.uk The Pembrokeshire Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers will also be providing taster sessions at this event.
Volunteering Staying Safe, Active and Healthy as we Grow Older Are you over 50? Have you visited one of our Leisure Centres recently? Why not come along to one of our events and try a new activity, or speak with some of the 20+ exhibitors about having a home safety check, energy saving advice, adaptations, or maybe Community Safety etc. Why not try out the digital photography advice or computer learning? Don’t forget you can also get your electric blanket checked or why not have a health check? Pop in with a friend and have a cup of coffee and a chat. We can also offer free transport from some areas for each event. To find out more information contact Rachel Gibby at Pembrokeshire County Council 01437 764551.
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Volunteering
Come Celebrate National Volunteers Week with PAVS June 1st – 7th 2010 Volunteer’s Week Events Exhibition Stand at Farmers Market Venue: Farmers Market, Riverside, Haverfordwest Friday 28th May 2010 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.
Volunteer Celebration Event and Pembrokeshire Volunteering Awards 2010 Ceremony Venue: Pavilion, Withybush, Haverfordwest Thursday 3rd June 2010 10am – 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 receiving a free complementary therapy as a thank you treat for all the hard work and dedication they have given to volunteering. Lunch will also be provided free of charge. In addition, please nominate your volunteers for the awards and note the new category this year of ‘Youth Group’ award. There is an application form included within this newsletter. 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. Please book your places early as the event is usually very well attended (please see invitation flyer enclosed with tear off slip).
Pembrokeshire Volunteering Awards 2010 Do you know 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. Why not nominate them and give them the recognition they deserve?
For a nomination form see insert within this newsletter or contact Volunteering Pembrokeshire on 01437 769422. pavs.org.uk
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Volunteering GET YOUR SHARE OF THE HIGH SHERIFF’S BAG OF PROMISES This year’s High Sheriff of Dyfed, David Pryse Lloyd, is planning a Go M.A.D. month this September – that’s Go Make A Difference! He wants community groups to tell him about pet projects that need a leg up – maybe manpower, maybe materials like paint or bricks, maybe machinery like mechanical diggers ... The projects could be anything from painting a youth group’s premises to clearing waste ground around a school to building an access ramp for a village hall. Says David: “Although the role of High Sheriff is largely ceremonial these days, it does carry some influence. These tough economic times make fund raising not only difficult but inappropriate. So I’m asking businesses to give free and cut price goods and services – things like paint and machine hire. My small team and I are gathering together a bag of promises that could help turn a community group’s wish list into reality.” If you have a project that the High Sheriff’s bag of promises could make happen, contact co-ordinator Maureen Prentice on 01834 891534 or email maureen@ vallenfarmcottages.co.uk for more details and an application form.
Pembrokeshire Alzheimer’s Society Moves Offices After more than 10 years of working in the county, the Pembrokeshire branch has recently moved into new offices. The new office located at Suite 18 Cedar Court, just behind Tesco and underneath the new Milford Haven library, gives the Society the opportunity to grow to meet the increasing demands of people with dementia and their Carers in the locality. The office also has a meeting room which has already been put to good use in hosting various meetings and training courses. In November 8 carers attended an Introduction to Dementia course and in January/February 9 carers wanting to know more about local services and dementia in general attended a Carers Information Programme. The official opening ceremony for the office was on 26th February and over 40 people attended including the Chair of Pembrokeshire County Council, the Mayors of Milford Haven and Neyland, carers and their partners, health professionals and representatives of the care community in the county. The photo shows Beryl Noyce, co-founder of the Pembrokeshire branch of the Alzheimer’s Society together with branch staff Katherine Clegg and Michael Davies and local dignitaries Please give us a ring at the office 01646 692329 if you require any help or information
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Volunteering Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) Information Event IOver 50 people from 35 different organisations
Any activity in a specified place which is frequent, intensive and /or overnight. (Such as schools, children’s hospitals, residential care homes)
attended the ISA event held at the Withybush Pavilion on 24th March.
Liz Flack from the WCVA’s Criminal Records Unit gave a very comprehensive presentation and answered a wide range of questions from the audience.
Fostering and childcare, and certain defined positions of responsibility. (Such as school governor, trustees of certain charities.)
Some key points from the presentation, and the CRU Information Sheet on ISA, are detailed below/
Intensive – 4 days in 1 month or more or overnight
The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act provides the legal framework for a single agency (ISA) to vet those working with vulnerable groups. Its core purpose is to prevent unsuitable people from working with children and vulnerable adults in formal arrangements.
Frequently – 1 occasion a week or more How much will it cost? There is a one-off fee of £64 for paid employees. However, it will be FREE for volunteers (unless they later take up paid employment, in which case they will be required to pay).
ISA does not replace CRB checks. Some key differences include: •
•
Some important dates:
a CRB check is a snap shot in time that is updated on re-application, whereas ISA status is continuously monitored and updated. Employers can be notified of changes to an individual’s ISA-registration
July 2010 - Individuals will be able to apply for ISA-registration New joint application forms submitted to allow applications for ISA-registration and/or CRB checks.
the CRB is not easily portable as it is job specific, the ISA is portable across all Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups (SVG) activity
Employers will be able to express an interest in a person’s ISA-registration and be informed of any changes to that person’s ISA-registration status.
Who will be affected?
Employers can carry out FREE, online checks of a person’s ISA-registration status
Any volunteer or paid employee working in certain types of activity involving vulnerable groups.
November 2010 - It will be a legal requirement for individuals to register with the ISA subject to phasing strategy
Which activities will be affected? Any activity that is defined as ‘regulated activity’ under Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act.
This is only a very brief overview. To find out more:
What is regulated activity?
Frequently Asked Questions, a glossary, ISA newsletters and fact sheets can be found on the Independent Safeguarding Authority website www.isa-gov.org.uk/
Any activity of a specified nature that involves contact with children or vulnerable adults frequently, intensively and/or overnight. (Such as teaching, training, care, supervision, advice, treatment and transportation.) pavs.org.uk
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Volunteering WCVA CRU is a bilingual service for voluntary organisations, offering FREE *access to CRB Disclosures and ISA registration supported by comprehensive advice and guidance. Website: www.wcva-cru.org.uk Email address: cru@wcva.org.uk Telephone number: 0800 0 197 391 *There is no administration fee but CRB and ISA charges are applied where appropriate
“Good opportunity to ask questions” “A good concise presentation” “A very important and necessary event.” “There was good clarification of the definitions and steps of the process and working of ISA” “The presenter had a good understanding of the ISA scheme.”
LATEST VACANCIES ROYAL NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF BLIND PEOPLE (RNIB) Events Supporter (Fundraising) Volunteer Co-ordinator (Fundraising) Street and Store Collector (Fundraising) ‘Sooty’ Charity Box Home Finder (Fundraising) ‘Sooty’ Charity Box Collector Public Speaker (Fundraising) PEMBROKESHIRE CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU Telephone Information Line Volunteer
THE ANTHONY NOLAN TRUST Registration Event Volunteer WRVS Befriending Volunteer SNAP CYMRU Independent Parental Support (Level 1) Independent Parental Support (Level 2) Project Support Volunteer STEPS2HEALTH Volunteer Walker
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Volunteering Volunteering Opportunity with Rising Tide – 20th May 2010 Volunteers are urgently required to co-ordinate the Rising Tide Launch Event on 20th May 2010 as part of a team. Volunteers will be involved in all aspects of the launch event including stewarding, refreshments and guiding guests around the facility; guests will include local and national politicians as well as local dignitaries. Out-of-pocket expenses including travel to Milford Marina will be refunded and a buffet lunch will be provided. Additionally, successful volunteers at this event will be invited to attend Rising Tide’s Celtic Maritime festivities in August.
By investing in 6 maritime events in the towns within these areas over the 3-year period of the project, it is hoped that this will bring a positive effect on those local economies, whilst also creating some sustainability for the future. The Maritime Heritage of both Wales and Ireland is sadly neglected and Rising Tide is setting out to change this by creating a strong unified body that will bring attention to the areas whilst securing the associated culture and stories for the future. Through this unification, participation in UK and European Maritime Heritage forums will provide the support and information necessary to improve interpretation and highlight the Maritime history The training aspect of Rising Tide takes groups of unemployed persons who are not in training or education and offers them an opportunity to train in marine skills. RYA based courses will provide practical on water skills, followed by OCN courses in traditional boat building and marine engineering. This helps to provide trainees with the necessary background to create confidence and new prospects.
As this event is due to take place in the very near future, please contact Jean Morris or any member of the PAVS Volunteering Pembrokeshire team ASAP if you are interested in volunteering for the day. Tel 01437 769422 or email volunteering@pavs. org.uk . Rising Tide is a European Interreg project hosted by Milford Haven Port Authority. Rising Tide’s activities include regeneration of coastal communities, building of a strong body for maritime heritage in Wales and Ireland, and training. The project covers a geographical area of 6 counties on the West Wales Coast, with a similar geographical area in South East Ireland.
For further information on the Rising Tide project please contact Milford Haven Port Authority on 01646 696371.
HOST an International Student Volunteers in Pembrokeshire have enjoyed welcoming international students to their homes for 23 years, through the HOST scheme. The benefits to the guests are easy to imagine: a weekend or Christmas break from their university studies in a UK city; fresh air, relaxation, and good home cooking; and above all, a chance to experience the home and community life of this country away from other (international) students, with friendly hospitable people who make them feel at home and show them the beauties of the region.
the opportunity to meet interesting people from all over the world and to learn about their culture. Some join HOST because they would like to think somebody would give a bit of care and attention to their own children, should they be far from home for a year or two. All hosts have the satisfaction of knowing that they will be laying down for their guests very special memories to take home with them, and making a small, personal and significant contribution to international understanding and goodwill. For more information about HOST, please see www.hostuk.org. More hosts are always needed. The voluntary regional organiser in S Wales is Lynette Chappin on 02920 693903.
But what of the volunteer hosts - what do they gain? Some say, a good excuse to get out and appreciate the place where they live; others, pavs.org.uk
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Volunteering WRVS Befriending Scheme Pembrokeshire The WRVS Befriending Scheme aims to help people over 50 to get more out of life by providing individual practical support at home and encouraging wider participation in local communities. Research by the Joseph Rowntree foundation identifies specific areas as key issues for older people in maintaining their quality of life and independence. These include home maintenance, friendships and getting out and about, to name just a few. The Pembrokeshire befriending scheme can provide tailored support, delivering active signposting to comprehensive information to assist older people to participate in community activities. Up to ten weeks low level support will be provided by a WRVS volunteer. A goal will be discussed and agreed upon by the client and volunteer, the aim being to promote independence and allow the client to re-establish links within the local community. This could be something as simple as arranging a visit to a friend or accompanying them to a luncheon club, perhaps a trip to the local leisure centre or supermarket. It is very easy, after an illness for instance, to get out of your routine of visiting friends or clubs and self confidence can take a knock at the same time. With the assistance of a WRVS volunteer we hope to enable clients to take up their lives again and enjoy themselves. We need volunteers in your area to assist us in the delivery of this scheme. Please telephone Susan Meister on 01437 563167 for further details. Mileage and expenses paid.
News from Members Club’s top honours with magnificent treble It was a case of once, twice, three times a Llysyfran lady at the Pembrokeshire YFC Field Day as members from the Club swept the board to take three of the most prestigious honours in the county. Ros Bushell was named Young Farmer of the Year, with Catrin Williams taking the Junior Member of the Year title and Sharalyn Jenkins becoming this year’s County YFC Queen.
Sharalyn’s attendants are Lisa Edwards, Eglwyswrw YFC; Anne Evans and Tania Hancock, Keyston YFC; and Emily Rigby, Clynderwen YFC. To add to Llysyfran’s triumph, the Club won the Field Day once again and Caroline Lewis was named Stockman of the Year. The junior Stock Judge of the Year title went to Mari Davies of Eglwyswrw YFC.
(Left) YFC royalty: County YFC Queen Sharalyn Jenkins (centre) with her attendants (clockwise from top left) Tania Hancock, Anne Evans, Keyston YFC; Lisa Edwards, Eglwyswrw YFC; Emily Rigby, Clynderwen YFC.
(Right) Top members: Junior Member of the Year Catrin Williams and Young Farmer of the Year Ros Bushell, of Llysyfran YFC.
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News from Members Coppicewood College May in the woodland is an awesome time as the leaves begin to burst open and put a light dapple shade over the woodland floor. Bluebells and other plants will be at their height and the bird life will be frantically collecting food for their broods. So why not join our expert Instructors and enjoy learning new skills within our wonderful 12 acre working coppice woodland - there is so much to see and do.
Make a Shavehorse and Take it Home cost is £160 Takes place in our woodland near Cilgerran and you are guaranteed to take home this fully functional craft workbench. This will enable you to continue developing your green woodworking skills to make all kinds of useful items. Make and take one of these home
Beginners Scytheing Saturday 8th,15th,22nd and 29th May, only £40 includes all equipment, but participants can bring their own scythe
Takes place within our Instructors Forest Garden in Moylegrove - a complementary tour of the 4 acre plantation is included. Scything is a truly sustainable and efficient method of managing a lawn or mowing a field, it is also a brilliant way to keep Come give it a try.
fit.
Free Events in May As part of Adult Learners Week Coppicewood College are running the following FREE EVENTS: Saturday 15th May Opening Event at Cardigan Town Hall - See all the participants and book some great free sessions. We will be demonstrating green woodworking in the courtyard. Wednesday 19th May Enjoy a day in the woods with our volunteers carrying out various activities such as charcoal and faggot making. Thursday 20th May Green woodworking, have a go on the shavehorse and pole lathe. Learn to split and shape green wood. Friday 21st May Wildlife walks. This is a 2-hour guided walk within our woodland looking for birds, insects and wild flowers. 10:00am and 2:00pm starts. Saturday 22nd May Willow weaving. Spend a day with our weaving expert learning the basics and making something to take home. All events start at 10:00 am and finish at 4:00pm and must be booked in advance. Last chance to book will be in Cardigan on 15th May. Courses can be booked by contacting Bruce on 01239 881394 or email bslark@aol.com or by contact via the website www.coppicewoodcollege.co.uk We hope to see you soon!
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