Contents 1. AGM – Wednesday 28th September 2005 2. Open Evenings 3. Trustees’ Annual Report 4. LCVYS Update 5. Lolly Submissions 6. Resources 7. Meeting Rooms Available 8. The Electronic Lolly 9. Funderfinder 10. Young People Matter 11. New Charities VAT Ruling 12. A New Campaign to Help Recruit Charity Trustees 13. Celebrating 25 Years as a Leader 14. External Funding Guidance for Lancashire Schools Website 15. The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service Deadline Approaching 16. Congratulations 17. Employment Opportunity 18. European Volunteering Assembly 19. Trainers and Consultants Direct 20. Learning to Fly 21. Charities Advisory Group 22. Disability Rights Commission Briefing 23. Conference 24. Bully Free Zone 25. Fewer Charities Needed, Bunkum 26. Funding for Young People’s Training 27. Community Improvement Funding 28. Garstang and District Partnership Discretionary Fund 29. Local Network Fund for Children and Young People 30. Baring Foundation Merges Funding Streams 31. UK Villages Community Kitty 32. DEFRA Consultation on new £27 Million Funding Programme 33. Campaign for Learning Funds 34. Cadbury Charitable Trust 35. Churchill Travelling Fellowships 36. Funding for Community Champions 37. Skills Active Sponsors New Community Award 38. Youth Music Open Programme LANCASHIRE COUNCIL FOR VOLUNTARY YOUTH SERVICES ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING At County Hall on Wednesday 28th September 2005 6.45 pm for 7.15 pm start A Voluntary Youth Sector Event “Ensuring Youth Matters” jointly sponsored by LCVYS and LYA will follow the formal business of the AGM. This will include the Annual Presentation of LCVYS Certificates of Achievement for Young People A light buffet will be available from 6.45 pm. You may reserve your free place by contacting the office on 01772 250001 LCVYS OPEN EVENINGS Tuesday 11 October 5 pm to 7 pm Wednesday 16 November 6 pm to 8 pm LCVYS has been offering its members these open evenings in order to accommodate members who may be working during office hours. If you have been finding them helpful or would like to suggest other times and dates please let us know. The open evenings are specifically to give our members a chance to: practise using the resources, utilise the funding desk, use the Funderfinder software, browse the InKindDirect catalogue, get general support and advice or just to find out what we do and how we may support your organisation, contact the LCVYS office for more information. TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT For the year ending 31st March 2005 The year has seen growth and development despite the constant quest for funding to continue and extend the work we do on behalf of young people and those working with them. Our valued work force has again had to live with the uncertainty of funding for their work not being available beyond the end of the financial year. We are pleased that we have been able to extend their employment until 1st April 2006, thus ensuring the continuation of the excellent work done on behalf of young people and those working with them. The one year agreement with Connexions Lancashire Limited to fund the LINX Worker post ended on 31st March 2005 and we thank Connexions Lancashire Limited for their support. Peter Beesley has worked to increase links between workers at Connexions and the voluntary youth sector. We were pleased to be able to offer Peter continued employment and he will develop LCVYS’s new initiative of a Trading Arm which will tie in with the Government agenda of self-sustainability and also be involved in implementing recommendations from the current review taking place. This review of our role and function began in July and is funded by Connexions. The review will examine our work and indicate ways forward for the future. Funding for Val Rice, our Proficiency Co-ordinator, also ended giving us real concern over the creation and administration of training opportunities for leaders and production of the increasingly popular newsletter the LCVYS LOLLY. Val along with Peter will continue her employment as will Mike Smith our assistant administration officer. Our capable Company Secretary Ian Ferguson’s post was not in doubt since we receive valuable ongoing funding from Lancashire Youth and Community Service. We have negotiated with Lancashire Youth and Community Service to secure funding for 2005 – 6 and 2006 – 7 and Connexions Lancashire Ltd for 2005 - 6. Negotiations involved thorough preparation and time consuming attendance at numerous meetings. The Trustees appreciate the efforts of all those involved in this vital function. Currently, Full membership stands at 22 and Observer status membership stands at 50. The review will look at the two tiers of membership use and report on their viability. We are confident that membership of LCVYS represents value for money and we ask that current members encourage others to join. Training for adult leaders and workers, a vital part of our work, continued to offer a variety of quality and diverse training opportunities across Lancashire. During the year 216 Leaders took part in courses that included: Child Protection; First Aid; Risk Awareness; Canoe Safety; Disability Awareness and many others. All courses are advertised monthly via The LOLLY. We are always keen to hear from members about their training needs to ensure we keep up to date with the provision made. The LOLLY, part of the Proficiency Programme, continues to be circulated. We now distribute 187 hard copies and 1,194 Email copies. The LOLLY is now recognised as a key method of communication on youth work in Lancashire. The Trustees are proud that the excellent work with young people from a wide range of providers both voluntary and statutory reaches so many people not only within the voluntary sector but beyond. It is vital that those working with young people have a resource to publicise and encourage good practice. The LOLLY is dependent on its readers and members to forward details of activities, programmes, awards and other good news for inclusion and Val Rice is always keen to receive suitable information. To further improve communication and share good practice LCVYS offers bi-monthly meetings, The Fora, held usually at County Hall. Members are encouraged to take part in lively debate and receive current information about trends in work with young people. We thank all who have contributed as organisers, speakers and guests over the last year. No doubt our current review may highlight improved opportunities for future development. LCVYS values working alongside other partners working with young people. Over the years Trustees and staff have developed excellent partnerships enabling us to make our contribution to overall provision in the County. We in turn value the support and information we gain through working alongside others. Our close working relationship with Lancashire County Council has been further strengthened by the appointment by L.C.C. of Katherine Ashworth, the Assistant County Youth and Community Officer with responsibility for the voluntary sector. Kathy has brought a range of experience and expertise into the partnership and is highly supportive. We value not only the contributions already made but those that will benefit the work of all in the future. LCVYS continues to send representation to the Youth and Community Service Senior Staff Meeting ensuring productive dialogue between both sectors. L.C.C. continues to be represented at Executive Committee meetings. The last year also saw the re-emergence of the Partnership Working Group established initially to exchange ideas and monitor current changes at both County and national level. The Trustees thank all who attend and contribute to this opportunity to improve communication and strengthen partnership. Whilst the partnership with Connexions Lancashire has not been as long established it is nevertheless valued by both partners. Margaret Leather continues to represent LCVYS on the Board of Directors and we are also represented in Blackburn with Darwen and in Blackpool on local management committees. Karen O’Donoghue, Chief Executive Officer of Connexions Lancashire, is a valued member of our Executive and LCVYS has established strong working relationships with other key workers at Connexions. Organisations affiliated to LCVYS continue to be represented at regional and national level. Mr Roy Thornton is a Vice-President of the National Council for Voluntary Youth Service [NCVYS]. Mrs Audrey Foster M.B.E attends North West Council for Voluntary Services [NWRCVYS]. Mr Bernard Pendlebury represents us at St Martin’s College, and we have further representation at the Regional Youth Work Unit [RYWU], Voluntary Service North West [VSNW] and the North West Constitutional Convention. LCVYS supports the work of the Voluntary Youth Network [VYNet] in Blackburn with Darwen and the Blackpool Council for Voluntary Youth Service. [BCVYS] LCVYS is currently reviewing its future role at a time when the Government Green Paper will bring significant change to all working with young people. Thanks to the support of Connexions Lancashire Ltd. the Trustees have been able to employ the services of Mr Phil Barratt, a consultant from EYSIS Ltd. who will lead our deliberations and build on the discussions and work already started by a Strategy Review Group set up by the Executive earlier this year. A report will be prepared giving LCVYS a focus for the future that will build on the successes of the past and identify new ways forward at a time of great change and challenge. LCVYS, always conscious of its duties towards its employees, is working towards achieving Investors in People. Staff have attended training events and Executive members meet regularly with a representative from IIP to move LCVYS closer towards gaining an award that will give LCVYS even greater credibility with partners and funders. Over its years LCVYS has always relied on the support of its members for its management. May I thank all members of the Executive Committee for the contributions made during a difficult year. As some of you are probably aware this has not been an easy year for me to be Chair due to two serious family illnesses. I thank Mrs Margaret Leather, a tremendous supporter of LCVYS, for all her personal support and work on behalf of LCVYS and feel sure my thoughts are echoed by other Executive members, staff members and the LCVYS membership. The future will require the dedication of others who will fill roles that will ensure the continuing success of the work done by LCVYS. We will need to be on the look out for others who will make their contribution by filling various roles and contributing in so many other ways. May I thank our Auditors, Harrison, Latham and Co whose professional guidance is greatly valued. Our dedicated members of staff, Ian, Val, Peter and Mike too deserve thanks for their efforts over the year. Each year seems to get more difficult due to the need to respond to change. The coming year looks to be equally challenging due to the Government Green Paper. I feel sure that they will respond to all that comes their way in their usual dedicated and professional manner. The coming year will again require the professionalism and commitment that LCVYS stands for. We have never in our long history shirked challenge and we will, along with member organisations and partners continue to respond to the challenge to serve what is Lancashire’s best investment – young people. Mr Bob Beardsworth JP (Chairman) LCVYS UPDATE Patrons Keith Gledhill MBE DL KStJ Roy Fisher B ARCH MBE CStJ JP DL FRIBA FRTPI Auditors Harrison Latham and Company, 97 Tulketh Street, Southport, Merseyside, PR8 1AW Solicitors Napthens Solicitors, 7 Winckley Square, Preston, Lancashire, PR1 3JB Bankers - The Royal Bank of Scotland Plc. Trustees Chairman Mr R Beardsworth JP (Catholic Youth Service – Salford and Blackburn with Darwen CVYS (VY Net)) from 29 September 2004 to 31 March 2005. Mrs M Leather (Girlguiding Lancashire West) to 29 September 2004. Deputy Chairman Mrs M Leather (Girlguiding Lancashire West) from 29 September 2004. Honorary Treasurer Vacancy. and the following Members: Mr D Almond (St John Ambulance) (Resigned 3 February 2005); Mrs F Atkinson (Girlguiding Lancashire Northwest); Mr C Creelman JP (East Lancashire Scout Association); Mr A Donkin (Lancashire Association of Clubs for Young People); Mr T Keightley (Foxton Centre); Mr R Marsh (Prince’s Trust); Mrs C Miller; Mrs K O’Donoghue (Connexions Lancashire Ltd); Mr C Ovenden MBE (St John Ambulance / Scout Association); Mr B Pendlebury (West Lancashire Scout Association) (appointed 9 November 2004); Mr R Thornton (Boys' Brigade); Mr G Whalley (Lancashire Youth Association). Organisations in membership from September 2004 to September 2005 Full Members Air Cadets—Cumbria & North Lancashire Wing, Blackburn Diocese Youth Service, Boys’ Brigade, East Lancashire Scouts, Girlguiding - County of Sefton, Girlguiding - Lancashire East, Girlguiding – Lancashire North West, Girlguiding - Lancashire West, Lancashire Association of Clubs for Young People, Lancashire Federation of Young Farmers Clubs, Lancashire Youth Association, Lancaster Diocesan Youth Service, Lancs Fire & Rescue Service - The Prince’s Trust, Lords House Farm, Methodist Association of Youth Clubs, Preston Night Stop (Barnardos), Prince’s Trust, Sea Cadets, SOVA Pro Mentoring, St John Ambulance, The Dreamscheme, Trinity Community Partnership, Voluntary Youth Network (Blackburn w Darwen CVYS), West Lancashire Scouts, Youth Service of the Diocese of Salford Observer Members Avenger Performing Arts, Beech Tree School, Blackburn Brook Advisory Centre, Blackpool & Fleetwood Yacht Club, Blackpool CVYS, Brunshaw Action Group, Caring Today, Catholic Children’s Rescue Society, Clitheroe Canoe Club, Community & Youth Workers Union, Community Alliance (Burnley and Padiham) Ltd, Community Futures, Connexions Lancashire Ltd, Crusaders, CSV Media North Volunteer Unit, Darwen School of Kung Fu, East Lancs into Employment, Fairhaven Methodist Youth & Community Project, Fylde T3 Youth Charity, Garstang Canoe Club, Gateway/Mencap, Girls’ Brigade - North Lancashire District, Guys Farm Activity Centre, Horses and Ponies Protection Association (HAPPA), Harbour House, Hope House Projects, Imagine! Productions, Ingol and Tanterton Action Group (INTAG), Lancashire Constabulary, Lancashire Global Education Centre, Lancashire Outdoor Activities Initiative (LOAI), Lancashire Outward Bound Association, Lancaster and District YMCA, Lancashire County Council Youth and Community Service, Leyland SLEAP Project, Life Education Services for Lancashire, Mellor Junior Football Club, Mens Health Project - Owd Lads & Young Lads, Millennium Volunteers, The Centre for Volunteers, Nguzo Saba Centre, Pendle Paddlers, Poulton Community Centre, PPAL Community Circus, Preston DISC, Preston HIV Support Team, Preston Life Centre, Preston Pathfinders, Preston Soccer Centre, Red Rose Sports Club, Red Rose Youth, Signposts - Morecambe, Skelmersdale Police Amateur Boxing Club, Streetlife, St Mary’s Youth Foundation, St Teresa’s Youth Group (Ablaze), Toby Celtic AFC, Unity FM, Youthworks Avenham, Youthworks (Groundworks East Lancashire) LCVYS UPDATES LCVYS is currently engaged in attempting to keep up to date with a fast moving agenda for change in the public, voluntary sector and voluntary youth sector. The LOLLY is the main channel of communication for voluntary youth organisations in Lancashire but the following information can only be a snapshot of the current issues, designed in an attempt to keep the voluntary youth sector abreast of the changes. Further details on any of the following topics can be obtained by contacting the LCVYS office. YOUTH MATTERS: The long awaited Green Paper issued in July, has far reaching implications for the voluntary youth sector. The Government’s vision “is to see services integrated around young people’s needs helping all teenagers achieve the five Every Child Matters outcomes to the greatest possible extent.” The proposals are directed at the teenage years and aim to address four key challenges – • To engage more young people in positive activities and empower them to shape the services they receive • Encourage more young people to volunteer and become involved in their communities • Provide better information, advice and guidance to help young people make better choices about their lives • Provide better and more personalised support for young people with serious problems The document clearly acknowledges the value and expertise of the voluntary sector in achieving these aims – “Government, working with the voluntary sector and parents, must provide the right mix of challenge and support for teenagers.” The document can be downloaded from the website at www.everychildmatters.gov.uk. It is out for consultation until 4th November and organisations are encouraged to respond. If you wish to contribute to the LCVYS response, please send written comments to Ian at the LCVYS office no later that 16th October. ENGAGING CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE - LANCASHIRE CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE’S (DRAFT) CHARTER FOR ENGAGEMENT: Lancashire Children and Young People’s Charter Development Group spent a residential weekend in June to draw up a Children’s Charter. The Group comprised representatives from Lancashire Youth Council, Youth and Community Service, The Children’s Society and Youth Theatre and Arts Workers. The Charter is currently out for consultation and comments from the voluntary sector would be much appreciated. THE DRAFT CHARTER How should services consult with children and young people and involve them in decision making? 1. Adults should take into account what young people want, not just ask us and then ignore our ideas – tell us what is going on. 2. Children and young people should have feedback on what they have said and what is going to be done to resolve the issue. 3. We should have an independent person to complain to in case the service doesn’t listen to us when we have a complaint. 4. Confidentiality needs to be maintained when consulting children and young people on sensitive issues. 5. Have a variety of ways to consult children and young people, e.g. questionnaires, activities. 6. Children and young people need to be consulted about subjects and issues which they are experienced and interested in. 7. Consultation work should be straightforward and explained clearly to children and young people. 8. Adults should be approachable and not have biased opinions of people’s attitudes based on a person’s appearance. 9. Children and young people should be treated equally with respect, regardless of race, gender, disability, sexuality or age. 10. Children and young people should have the right to be continuously involved in consultation and development work from start to finish. 11. A sufficient amount of money should be put aside for consultation work whilst also ensuring that there is enough money available for other services. 12. When you are talking to us, make sure we understand – don’t shout and don’t patronise us. 13. Adults should use their body language in a friendly and positive way. Organisations are asked to discuss this draft Charter with children and young people and feed comments back to the LCVYS office by 31st October. CHANGEUP The Lancashire VCFS Consortium, on which LCVYS is represented at Steering Group level, will shortly commence a county wide, area by area, mapping exercise which will inform the drawing up of Local Infrastructure Action Plans which will, in turn, determine investment priorities for a £1.2 million programme kicking in late 2005 – early 2006. LSC ESF 3.1n Project A contract has been entered into between the Lancashire LSC and VCFS Consortium (with Lancashire County Council acting as the Lead Agency / Accountable Body) which will support the sector to train 300 trainers by the end of June 2007. Nine full time equivalent outreach workers will shortly be appointed within the sector to facilitate delivery. CONSULTATIONS: Lancashire County Council has a number of further documents out for consultation and would welcome views – • Developing a Vision and Objectives for the Relationship between Lancashire County Council and the Voluntary and Community Faith Sectors, due to be published on Monday 26th September 2005, watch this space for further details • Vision and Improvement for Equalities – closing date 31 October • Information Sharing and Assessment – closing date 15 November • Developing a Vision for Health – closing date 31 October, visit www.lancashire.gov.uk/corporate/questionnaires/runQuestionnaire.asp?qid=150003 For more details of how you can participate in any of the above please contact the LCVYS office. LANCASHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL LOCALITY FOOTPRINTS: A recent consultation on proposals to establish locality footprints, which would provide a model for the management of some of the services for children and young people to meet the Every Child Matters agenda, has been agreed. The five localities, based on groupings of District Council areas, are – Lancaster, Wyre and Fylde Preston Chorley, South Ribble and West Lancashire Hyndburn and Ribble Valley Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale Discussions with partners are currently taking place to consider how this model might impact on joint working programmes and Locality Partnership days are to take place in the autumn. COMMITTEES: LCVYS represents the voluntary youth sector on committees and fora and has recently attended meetings of the following – LCC Children’s Services Board – which concentrates its agenda on targeted children’s services VCFS Compact Working Group Every Child Matters – VCFS Sub Group LCC Youth and Community Service Partnership Working Group Lancashire BME Pact LCC External Funding Group (Extended Schools) LCC Teenage Pregnancy Rossendale DYCSCAC For further information on any of the above, please contact the LCVYS office LOLLYTRAD: LOLLYTRAD LIMITED IS OPENING FOR BUSINESS – SOON Do you need access to meeting rooms with laptop and digital projector and website access in central Preston? The facilities are DDA compliant, secure and 5 minutes walk from both Bus and Railway stations. Refreshments can be provided. Or - do you require assistance with Child and Vulnerable Adult Protection Training? These are just a couple of the services LOLLYTRAD is able to provide. Prices are very competitive. See www.lollytrad.co.uk or ring Peter on 07970 904029 for further details. LOLLY SUBMISSIONS If you would like to submit an article for inclusion in the next edition of the LOLLY, the deadline is Friday 14th October. It’s simple enough to submit an article. Email the item (with a picture if possible) to val@lcvys.org.uk. We are also happy to accept articles by fax or post (contact details are on the front page). The LOLLY is circulated to over 1300 readers in either hard copy or by email. It’s also available on the LCVYS website: www.lcvys.org.uk Details of how to receive a copy of the electronic newsletter, free of charge are below. Alternatively to receive a hard copy at a cost of £15.00 per annum email val@lcvys.org.uk or call 01772 250001 RESOURCES LCVYS is able to support its members by loaning out resources that many organisations simply cannot afford to buy themselves. Through the Transforming Youth Work Development Fund in association with Lancashire County Council Youth & Community Service, Connexions Lancashire and the Local Network Fund we have been able to purchase additional equipment. Available to our member organisations, are: Combined TV and Video player, OHP, Laptops, Thermal Binder, Flip Chart Board, Laminator, Projectors, screens, VCR, Digital Camcorders, Digital Cameras, access to an interactive whiteboard, PA Systems. Within the office a scanner and CD/DVD writer, a colour laser printer, duplex black and white printer. Contact the office on 01772 250001 or visit the website www.lcvys.org and click on resources. MEETING ROOMS AVAILABLE LCVYS have 2 meeting rooms available for use. Based in the centre of Preston on Guildhall Street, it is an ideal venue for groups, of up to 30 people (large room) or up to 8 (small room), wishing to meet in professional surroundings away from their normal venue. Drinks facilities are available. LCVYS also has a range of resources and office facilities available at a cost (free to LCVYS member organisations). The rooms are available during office hours, weekdays but may also be booked at weekends and evenings by prior appointment. Call 01772 250001 or email lcvys@lcvys.org.uk for rates and availability. THE ELECTRONIC LOLLY Free subscription is available to all for the electronic version of this newsletter which is published monthly. Send an email with the words “subscribe lolly” in the main body of the email to: majordomo@lcvys.org.uk and you will be added to our list and receive confirmation by return email. To receive the latest copy of the LOLLY by email at any time, send a blank email to: latestlolly@lcvys.org.uk within a few seconds the latest edition will be emailed back to you. FUNDERFINDER Funderfinder is a software programme that assists organisations to source trusts and grant giving organisations that may be able to support them. It is available at the LCVYS office to all member organisations during office hours. To arrange a convenient time contact the office on 01772 250001 or email enquiries@lcvys.org.uk Also available - free access to the internet, colour laser printer, mono duplex printer, photocopier and fundraising resources including software, manuals, cd roms etc. YOUNG PEOPLE MATTER Friday 30th September 2005 9.30 – 4.30 Clayton Business Centre, Clayton Business Park If you work with young people age 13-19 in Hyndburn and Ribble Valley in Health, Local Authority, Police, Connexions, Youth Service, Education or Voluntary Sector, you are invited to a workshop day. The day will also focus on responses to Every Child Matters and provide an opportunity for you to talk to other agencies, share information and look at ways to work together to move the Integrated Children’s Service Agenda forward for the benefit of the Young people of Hyndburn and Ribble Valley. For more information contact: K.Hughes, Lancashire House, The Sidings Business Park, Whalley, Clitheroe. BB7 9SE Tel: 01254 824544 Email: katrina.ianson-hughes@ed.lancscc.gov.uk NEW CHARITIES VAT RULING The National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) have welcomed the High Court ruling allowing charities to partially reclaim VAT incurred in the recruitment of charitable donors. Charities have to pay 17.5% tax on outsourcing activities and buying in services however, unlike their public sector counterparts, charities cannot recover this tax. The total irrecoverable VAT burden on charities is therefore at least £400 million annually. In June 2005, NCVO published the new edition of VAT for Voluntary Organisations: A step-by-step guide, which offers essential information on VAT, planning points and a registration checklist. The guide is available from Central Books priced £10 (£7 for NCVO members). Call 0845 458 9911 or email publicationsorders@ncvo-vol.org.uk for more information. Alternatively visit the website www.ncvo-vol.org.uk A NEW CAMPAIGN TO HELP RECRUIT CHARITY TRUSTEES The Charity Commission in partnership with TimeBank - the volunteer charity - have begun the first stage of a campaign to recruit more trustees for charities. The 'Get on Board' campaign was launched on 23 August to raise awareness of the benefits of trusteeship. It is hoped it will help to increase both the quantity and quality of trustees and will direct people interested in becoming trustees to the website www.do-it.org.uk where charities can advertise vacancies. If you have trustee vacancies you need to fill we would like to encourage you to make the most of this opportunity. To post your vacancies on www.do-it.org.uk get in touch with your local volunteer bureau. Find the one nearest to you at www.volunteeringengland.org.uk and give the team there your vacancy details. Traditionally, many charity boards have relied on word of mouth to fill trustee vacancies. This type of recruitment has its place, but it's not the best way to encourage a wide range of people to apply. The campaign should help you fill your vacancies with committed and enthusiastic people from diverse backgrounds. A few weeks ago the Charity Commission launched their latest findings about trusteeship. The Commission has published the report 'Start as you mean to go on', which examines trustee recruitment, selection and induction. For more information on this - or the trustee campaign - please see their website: www.charitycommission.gov.uk CELEBRATING 25 YEARS AS A LEADER Red Bank Scout Group leaders and parents threw a surprise party to celebrate the long service of one of their Cub Leaders. Carol McWhinnie has been a leader with the group for twenty five years – a terrific achievement! The Scout Group presented Carol with some garden furniture and flowers as a token of thanks. Group Scout Leader, Jackie Beesley, said ‘We are very proud of Carol and grateful for all the work she has done with the Cub Scout Section over the years. Carol is our longest serving leader having been involved with the Group since it was first formed twenty-eight years ago. This is a great achievement for any volunteer. Many, many boys have passed through the group during this time and will remember ‘Rikki’, as she is known, with great affection.’ The Scout Group meets at Red Bank Mission on Carr Lane and caters for boys from 6 – 14 years of age; Beavers, Cubs and Scouts, with a district Explorer Scout Unit for 14 – 18 year olds meeting in the same building. If anyone is interested in joining us, helping our leaders, or as a young member please contact Group Scout Leader, Jackie Beesley on 01257 270770. Picture available at: http://press.westlancashirescouts.org.uk/previous.htm EXTERNAL FUNDING GUIDANCE FOR LANCASHIRE SCHOOLS WEBSITE www.lancsngfl.ac.uk/projects/efg This new website is being launched to provide schools with guidance on applying for, managing and sustaining externally funded initiatives provided in a clear easy to follow format. Sources of Funding Information on main funding streams Links to Funding web sites Sources of Support and Consultancy Bidding for Funds Planning Resources Application Delivering the Project Contract Compliance/Legal Obligations Financial Management Administration People Management Premises Arrangements Partnerships Monitoring - example proformas Sustainability Good Practice Guidelines Success Stories Frequently Asked Questions Suggestions and Questions Contact Us THE QUEEN’S AWARD FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE DEADLINE APPROACHING To celebrate her Golden Jubilee, The Queen announced a new, annual Award to recognise and reward excellence in voluntary activities carried out by groups in the community. The Queen's Award for Voluntary Service (formerly The Queen's Golden Jubilee Award) is given for outstanding achievement by groups of volunteers who: • regularly devote their time to helping others in the community • improve the quality of life and opportunity for others • provide an outstanding service Nominations are now being accepted for the 2006 Awards, the deadline is 30 September 2005. This award recognises the vital role played by the hundreds of thousands of ’unsung heroes’ of the voluntary and community world and emphasises the importance of continuing recognition of their work. Nomination forms are available at www.queensawardvoluntary.org.uk or contact: The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service Office, Volunteering England, Regent’s Wharf, 8 All Saints Street London, N1 9RL Tel: 0845 000 2002 or Email: queensaward@volunteeringengland.org CONGRATULATIONS Nguzo Saba Centre The project will help build the capacity of local broader African organisations across Lancashire in the areas of financial control, marketing, project management and fundraising. This will enable the groups to ensure that they are able to better meet the needs of their members and to develop the services that they offer. The grant will contribute towards staff and running costs. £167,365 Preston Council for Voluntary Service The project will create the Volunteer Exchange which will work to engage local people in a diverse range of voluntary activities that will help develop them as individuals and benefit the local community in terms of enhanced service and improved quality of life. The project will offer this service to any individual of sixteen years or more and any voluntary and community organisations working within the area of benefit. The grant will fund staff, running costs and provide some costs for refurbishment of office space. £183,769 Council for Voluntary Service West Lancashire The project will provide one to one support and training to voluntary and community groups on information and publicity. It will assist groups to market and advertise their service, support them in developing and building their capacity and promote the service the groups offer to the wider community. It will also establish a network for voluntary and community groups to share information. The grant will contribute towards staff, running costs, producing information, line management and accommodation overheads. £108,714.00 LCVYS would like to offer its congratulations to the above organisations as they have successfully received funding from the Big Lottery Fund. We wish them every success with their projects. EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY PERSONAL ADVISER Reference Number Cx 84 2005 “Connexions Lancashire is committed to providing the service that will help you achieve the best from your life”. £19,247 - £24,100 (Qualified) - £14,906 - £19,247 (Trainee) Full time, permanent, based in Lancaster We are seeking an individual able to demonstrate strong professional skills and innovative approaches to engaging young people to enable them to engage in education, training and work opportunities and to make a successful transition to adult life. Essential criteria: Qualified -You must hold a professional qualification (recently used) at NVQ Level 4 or equivalent in a relevant field such as advice and guidance, youth & community work (JNC level 2), teaching (QTS) or social work. Trainee -You must hold as a minimum a qualification at NVQ Level 3 or equivalent and be willing to undertake training for an NVQ 4 qualification within an agreed timescale. Closing date 7 October 2005 Interview date 21 October 2005 For further details contact David Murray, HR Administrator, Head Office, Connexions Lancashire Ltd, Guide Business Centre, School Lane, Guide, Nr Blackburn, BB1 2QH, Tel: 01254 685120, Email: david.murray@cx-lancs.co.uk To apply on-line (we prefer you to apply on-line) visit our web site at www.cx-lancs.org.uk and follow the “jobs@cx-lancs” link, or e-mail vacancies@cx-lancs.co.uk (no CV’s) and a pack will be e-mailed to you or finally, leave your name and full address on our 24 hour answerphone 01254 685139. Please ensure you quote the relevant reference number. Successful applicants will be subject to clearance with the Criminal Records Bureau. EUROPEAN VOLUNTEERING ASSEMBLY Wolverhampton 12-13 Oct 05 Volunteering England invites people from volunteer-involving organisations and groups across the public, private and voluntary sectors to attend The European Volunteering Assembly 2005. A high point in the Year of the Volunteer 2005, and marking the UK Presidency of the EU, the event will provide a showcase for volunteering in the UK. The Assembly will provide an opportunity for participants from both the UK and the countries of Europe who work with volunteers to increase their skills, knowledge and expertise, strengthening their organisations’ capacity to involve more volunteers. The two day residential Assembly will include a mix of plenary sessions with high profile keynote speakers (check out www.volunteering.or.uk/eva2005 for more information) and panel discussions, practical workshops, an exhibition area, networking opportunities and social events. There will be over 40 workshops available to attend on: - Raising Standards - The Volunteering Landscape - Reach and Diversity - Sustainability - Young People and Volunteering - Employer Supported Volunteering The cost of the Assembly is £200 (£180 VE members) for the full two day Assembly including Gala Dinner, or £130 (£115 VE members) daily attendance. To receive a hard copy brochure or to book a place at the Assembly Email eva2005@volunteeringengland.org or telephone 0121 663 5536, alternatively download a booking form or book online at www.volunteering.org.uk/eva2005. TRAINERS AND CONSULTANTS DIRECT The National Association of Councils for Voluntary Service (NACVS) has re-launched 'Trainers and Consultants Direct'. Voluntary and community organisations can search for trainers, consultants, temporary and project managers and non-managerial supervisors all free of charge. You can also download a guide to the tendering process. Visit www.trainersandconsultantsdirect.org.uk To register as a trainer or consultant please contact tcd@nacvs.org.uk LEARNING TO FLY The Governance Hub has just launched its first leaflet 'Learning to Fly'. The leaflet deals with all the aspects of governance for voluntary and community organisations, including monitoring and delegation, and has a list of useful contacts. Download the PDF flyer at: www.voluntaryarts.org/uploaded/map2802.pdf CHARITIES ADVISORY GROUP Following the Chancellor’s announcement in the last budget to modernise tax administration, a Charities Advisory Group has been set up by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to act as a one-stop-shop offering charities a tax helpline and website. Visit www.hmrc.gov.uk/charities/ DISABILITY RIGHTS COMMISSION BRIEFINGS The Disability Rights Commission (DRC) produce a monthly briefing sheet. This is a free resource aimed mainly at advice and information workers, legal specialists and advisors. It includes articles from the DRC and readers on legal cases, settled cases, current projects, new or updated publications, key issues in providing an advice and information service to disabled people. To join the email list call Vikki Malcolm, Partnerships Officer on 0161 958 2192 Email: Vikki.Malcolm@drc-gb.org A COMMUNITY WORK UNIT CONFERENCE A Black Perspective in Community and Youth Work 2005 Saturday, 3 December, 10.00 am – 4.15 pm The aim of the conference is to enable black and white community and youth workers to focus on practice with a black perspective. Workshops will provide opportunities for discussion on issues and practice related to: Cultural creativity Rights and responsibilities Drugs and gangs Identity development Peer mediation Refugee awareness Child and adolescent mental health Relationships between white workers and black communities In relation to the above, how do we move forward with a black perspective? Discussions and networking will enable practical strategies to be developed. A conference report with useful tools for practice based on the discussions will be compiled and circulated after the conference. Email cwkenquiries@manchester.ac.uk Bookings for the conference can be made online at ConferCare: www.meeting.co.uk/confercare/cwu2005/. A paper version of the booking form is also available. If you have any queries about your booking, please contact ConferCare: 0161 306 4068 Email: mcc.reg@manchester.ac.uk Post: CWU, ConferCare, STARS, Barnes Wallis Building, The University of Manchester, Sackville Street, Manchester, M60 1QD Fax: 0161 306 4070 The conference will be held at one of the University of Manchester’s conference centres: Chancellors Conference Centre, Chancellors Way, Moseley Road, Fallowfield, Manchester. Tel: 0161 907 7414 An optional informal networking session will be held on the previous evening at the Conference Centre. BULLY FREE ZONE North West Bullying Awareness Conference Tuesday 22nd November 2005, 9.30am – 4.00pm at The Chorley Conference Centre, Chorley, Lancs As part of National Anti Bullying Week, Bully Free Zone will be delivering a North West Conference, aimed at raising awareness of bullying: Types of bullying Effects of bullying Effective ways to deal with bullying This conference will include speakers giving their own perspective and experiences of bullying. Delegates will then be given the opportunity to attend a selection of workshops throughout the day. Including: Racist Bullying; Homophobic Bullying; Meaningful ways of involving young people; Peer Support (Buddying / Listening/ Mediation); A Whole School Approach to tackling bullying Who should attend? Voluntary Sector Workers, Teachers, Learning Mentors, Teaching Assistants, Education Social Workers, Connexions PAs, Youth Workers All monies must be received two weeks prior to the date of the conference. For more information contact: Chantelle Lindsay, Bully Free Zone, 23 Palace Street, Bolton, BL1 2DR Tel: 01204 454958 Fax: 01204 457467 E-mail: office@bullyfreezone.freeserve.co.uk FEWER CHARITIES NEEDED. BUNKUM! CHARITIES doing the same work are wasting money and are not worth funding if they are not delivering something new. This was the preposterous argument of Simon Hughes, the Lib Dem MP, at the recent Charities Aid Foundation conference. To back this up, he described the charities listed in his constituency's local phonebook: four dealing with alcohol issues, seven with drugs, five homeless organisations, and so on. To the surprise of the Directory of Social Change (DSC), this view appears to be reflected by the new chair of the Charity Commission, Geraldine Peacock. She recently asked: "Do we really want all these charities?" To which the answer, in the view of DSC, is an emphatic yes. The argument that there are too many charities appears to be based on the idea that several charities doing similar work in the same area are wasting money by not merging into one. This is bunkum. Some 80 per cent of charities do not have any employees and have limited costs. Most of their work is done by unpaid volunteers. According to the Charity Commission, 86 per cent of registered charities have an annual income of less than £10,000. Most of that money goes directly to the beneficiary. That is not the case for the small number of large charities, of which 2.6 per cent (4,800 or so) have between them an income of about £27billion and employ in the region of two million people. This plethora of charities exists precisely because they do serve local needs, using local people in the community where the problem is. For example, there are 2,300 recreation/playing field charities. Is that too many? Or should we just have one, with one gigantic playing field in the middle of Britain, because that would be cheaper to run? In fact, there are places with too few charities: no youth clubs; no help for the elderly; no community centres; and no self-help groups for those with disabilities. The politicians and senior civil servants appear to have forgotten the baby in trying to get rid of the bathwater. Money is not what really matters in charitable activity. It's choice, community and citizenship. Odd, isn't it, that our politicians would vehemently oppose a monopoly for a supermarket, because consumers have a right to choice, but someone with, say, a mental health problem doesn't get to choose who they approach for help? So monopolies in the voluntary sector are good - but not in the private sector? Hmmmm. What one person calls undesirable duplication is welcome diversity for another. Beneficiaries and funders have as much right to choice as anyone else. But it is probably more important to provide choice for those who are needy and vulnerable. No two charities are exactly alike, even if the work they do appears broadly similar. Charities' approaches, priorities and cultures are very different. And that has an enormous impact on who wants to give them money and who turns to them for help. Engaging in charitable activity, particularly at local levels, rebuilds community spirit and re-engages people's sense of citizenship. In this rights-led society in which we live, it reminds people that with rights come responsibilities. Anyone who is active in a local charity or community group will attest to the wider social benefits that occur from their participation. And please stop bleating about things having to be new to be successful. Some of the most successful charitable activity is tried, tested and has worked for years. So ... more charities doing more of the same, please. Debra Tyler This article was published in The Times Public Agenda Comment column on 30 November 2004 © Debra Allcock Tyler/The Times, London, 30th November 2004. No copying, photocopying, reproduction or electronic rights are available in this article without the prior permission of the copyright holder. FUNDING FOR YOUNG PEOPLE’S TRAINING To access this funding your group must be signed up with the Accreditation Network in their own right or be a member of an umbrella organisation, eg LCVYS, Lancashire Association of Clubs for Young People, Lancashire Youth Association, the money is available to develop and/or record the accredited outcomes of young people aged 13 to 19 living in the Lancashire County Council area. A small amount of funding is available now for the current financial year and can be applied for to cover the costs of you enhancing what you are already doing by accrediting young people’s achievements. Funding is available for: • *Young People to access subsidised places on LCVYS training courses leading to an accredited outcome • Leader training – necessary training for leaders to be able to deliver accredited out comes – e.g. BCU awards etc • Young People’s accreditation – to support the delivery of work leading to accredited outcomes – e.g. the additional cost of a residential to offer accreditation, award booklets etc • Data collection e.g. umbrella organisation licences, administration of data collection where numbers are large and the data is from different sources i.e. Girlguiding, Scouts, LACYP etc For information please visit the website: www.lancsycs.org/accreditation For an application form contact: Tracy Cowle, Training & Development Manager, LYA, 10 Fishergate Hill, Preston PR1 8JB T: 01772 208597 F: 01772 251334 E: tracyc@lya.org.uk *If any young person, residing in the Lancashire County Council area (not Blackburn w Darwen or Blackpool), aged 13 to 19, wishes to apply for funding contact the LCVYS office on 01772 250001. COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT FUNDING The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister has announced a package of £1.3 billion to help local authorities and voluntary sector partners to improve communities and tackle problems around antisocial behaviour, education, housing, livability, health inequalities and worklessness. www.odpm.gov.uk/pns/displaypn.cgi?pn_id=2005_0142 GARSTANG AND DISTRICT PARTNERSHIP DISCRETIONARY FUND Grants up to £10,000 for communities and groups in the Garstang area. The fund, delivered by Community Futures, is specifically designed to enable simple and speedy access to grants by smaller community groups. The Discretionary Fund forms part of the Garstang Market Town initiative programme. There are no restrictions as to the type of projects that can be applied for; however, applicants must be able to demonstrate the long term economic viability of their projects. In addition, projects should aim to foster and compliment vibrant local communities. For information on the programme or grant scheme contact the Development Team at: Community Futures, 15 Victoria Road, Fulwood, Preston, PR2 8PS Tel: 01772 717461 Email: ccl@communityfutures.org.uk LOCAL NETWORK FUND FOR CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE NEXT DEADLINE FRIDAY 30 SEPTEMBER Do you need between £250 and £7,000? Are you a small community group in the Lancashire, Blackburn with Darwen or Blackpool areas? Can you organise projects or activities that directly benefit disadvantaged children or young people? If the answer to these questions is yes, then the Local Network Fund for Children and Young People may be able to help. For an application pack telephone 0845 113 0161 The Local Network Fund covers the Lancashire area including Blackpool and Blackburn with Darwen and targets children and young people aged 0 – 19 years who are recognised as facing disadvantage. The next deadlines for applications are: Wednesday 16 November 2005 or Tuesday 28 February 2006 This fund is currently being directly administered by the Community Foundation for Merseyside, with outreach and support provided by LCVYS. Funding is available to help improve children’s lives in Lancashire, through the Local Network Fund. The Local Network Fund has been set up by the Department of Education to help tackle child poverty. The 4 main themes are: Aspirations and experiences; Economic disadvantage; Isolation and access; Children’s voices The priorities of the Fund are: First time applications, Disadvantaged wards, Minority ethnic groups For help with any aspect of the application procedure please call the LCVYS office on 01772 250001 BARING FOUNDATION MERGES FUNDING STREAMS The Baring Foundation has announced that it will be merging the two funding streams that currently make up its 'Strengthening the Voluntary Sector' programme. This is currently composed of project grants of up to £30,000 and core costs grants, usually of £75,000 over three years. The Baring Foundation has decided next year to merge these two streams into a single fund of larger grants. It is likely that these will range from £20,000 - £100,000 and be for up to five years. They will be open to application through an annual bidding process throughout the UK and will be focused by one or more organisational development themes. Applications for sums under £20,000 therefore will NOT be considered after the end of this year. www.baringfoundation.org.uk/ UK VILLAGES COMMUNITY KITTY UK Villages Community Kitty provides grants of between £50-£500 to a range of community based projects. In the past, the fund has awarded grants for projects ranging from a knitting circle, to a playgroup needing toys, sports equipment for cubs, and support for several village halls and playing field committees - as well as a number of Heritage projects. The next closing date for applications is the 10th October 2005. www.ukvillages.co.uk/articles.nsf/content/ukvkitty DEFRA CONSULTATION ON NEW £27 MILLION FUNDING PROGRAMME The Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) is consulting on the details of the new funding programme which would give extra support to rural development work already being carried out around the country. The Government has announced that if the proposals are accepted, voluntary and community organisations and parish councils in rural areas are to be given a boost of £27m over the next two years. Known as the Rural Social and Community Programme, the programme is designed to develop the capacity of the rural voluntary and community and parish council sectors to address important rural social issues and tackle the causes of rural social exclusion. The closing date for responses is 13th October 2005. Follow the link below to read the full proposal and to respond: www.defra.gov.uk/corporate/consult/rsc-programme/index.htm CAMPAIGN FOR LEARNING FUNDS Are you a voluntary sector organisation working with families in your local community? Would your organisation like free ‘hands-on’ support to develop family learning opportunities? If the answer to these questions is yes, the Campaign for Learning may be able to help you. The Campaign for Learning is starting an exciting new national project, funded by the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, to provide expert support for developing family learning opportunities in your local community. We can offer help with accessing funding and creating exciting new provision for the families in your local area. The Campaign for Learning co-ordinates Family Learning Week nationally, with a record 7,800 live events in 2004. The Campaign also runs the National Family Learning Network, which supports 6,000 practitioners, working with an estimated 5 million families each year. For further information telephone 0121 7733 133 www.campaignforlearning.org.uk www.familylearningnetwork.com CADBURY CHARITABLE TRUST Dates - May/ November The William Adlington Cadbury Charitable Trust funds a wide range of projects including music, drama and visual arts ones. To apply you must be a UK registered charity. Applications are considered on a continuing basis throughout the year. Small grants (amounts not exceeding £1,000) are assessed each month. Major grants are awarded at the Trustees' Meetings held twice annually, normally in May and November. Further details and application forms are available from the website www.wa-cadbury.org.uk CHURCHILL TRAVELLING FELLOWSHIPS Deadline - 20 October 2005 The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust supports British citizens from the UK wishing to gain experience and knowledge abroad. The scheme does not cover attending courses, academic study, gap years or student grants. 2006 categories include 'The Churchill Connection' which is open to anyone with a project relating to Sir Winston's interests, which included literature and painting. There is also a funding strand for preservation of archives, manuscripts and books. For an application form send an SAE (22cm x 11cm) to: The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust, 15 Queen's Gate Terrace, London SW7 5PR Tel: 020 7584 9315 Fax: 020 7581 0410 Email: office@wcmt.org.uk Website: www.wcmt.org.uk FUNDING FOR COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS Grants of up to £2,000 are available for people who wish to improve their local community. The grants are available through the Community Champions Fund. The Community Champions Fund has two main objectives; to increase the skills levels of individuals to enable them to act as inspirational figures, community entrepreneurs, community mentors, community leaders or community anamateurs; and to improve the involvement of communities in regeneration and learning activity by supporting key individuals who can drive forward community projects and pass on their expertise to others in their community and to other communities. www.dfes.gov.uk/communitychampions/aboutus.cfm SKILLSACTIVE SPONSORS NEW COMMUNITY AWARD SkillsActive is working with the Nancy Ovens Trust to sponsor a new skills development bursary aimed at coaches or leaders who work with young people in the active leisure and learning sector. Awarded annually the bursary will be worth up to £2,500 and may be used by the selected individual to undertake an alternative work experience or training within the UK or EU. The maximum length of the work experience is to be two months. The Nancy Ovens Trust hopes to award the first bursary in 2006. www.skillsactive.org.uk/newsstore/news140605002 YOUTH MUSIC OPEN PROGRAMME Youth Music have launched three new Open Programmes aimed at encouraging music-making, singing and vocal activities for children and young people. Grants for between £5,000 and £30,000 are available to non-profit making organisations to work with children and young people, up to the age of 18, over a period of 6 to 24 months. Application forms and hot tips for applying for funding are available online. It takes a minimum of three months to process an application. Tel: 020 7902 1060 Email: info@youtnmusic.org.uk Website: www.youthmusic.org.uk DISCLAIMER While LCVYS and its Members use their best efforts in collecting and preparing the information published herein, LCVYS hereby disclaims any liability for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions, whether such errors or omissions resulted from negligence or other causes. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, LCVYS does not in any way vouch for the information supplied by Members about their organisations, or for the quality of their youth work. LCVYS reserves the right to edit. Please notify us about any perceived errors or omissions.