GVOC Training news

Job Opportunities

Wednesday 24th March

From 2.30pm

Gateshead Civic Centre

Find out what they're doing to make Gateshead a safer place

During the day you can:

• Meet those people tackling crime and improving community safety where you live
• Find out what plans are in place for the coming year
• Take part in workshops about issues ranging from anti-social behaviours to money laundering and drug and alcohol abuse
• Get information and advice from a  wide range of organisations

As well as finding out what they're doing in your area there will be lots of fund things to do as well.  From learning to make non-alcoholic cocktails, to trying out a drink drive simulator and the latest Wii games!

For more information on the event please telephone 0191 433 2304 or email communitysafety@gateshead.gov.uk

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Drop In

Thomas Hepburn School

Mondays - Fortnightly from 12.00 noon to 3.00 pm

On offer is refreshments, chat and the chance to find out the latest information.

For more details call the local helpline - 0191 267 0594; e-mail newcastlegateshead@mssociety.org.uk or check out the website  www.mssociety.org.uk/newcastle

Thursday 1st April 2010

12.00pm - 3.30pm

Winlaton Centre, Winlaton

Ticket Price £2.00

Refreshments will be available to purchase and the venue is fully accessible.

The proceeds of the Disco will go to S.I.G.N (Social Inclusion Gardening Network) for people with learning disabilities.

For further information and to purchase tickets please ring The Whinnies on 0191 496 0418.

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The search is on for the £30,000 winner of ‘Nobel Prize for Charity’  
 

The Beacon Fellowship Charitable Trust has put out the call for nominations for the Beacon Prize 2010. The charity is urging people throughout the UK to nominate individuals who have made a significant philanthropic contribution in giving time, money or skills to a specific cause.

With awards in seven categories and an additional overall prize, the winners will be invited to attend a gala event in London where the overall prize winner will receive £30,000 to donate to the charity of their choice.

In this country we celebrate achievement in all kinds of fields, from soap stars to footballers, but giving has traditionally been something that we have kept quiet about. The Beacon Trust want to change that.

Nominations close on 16th April 2010.

Nominations forms can be submitted via the Beacon website.

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DWP are to replace a large number of office chairs ( the five star legs, swivel type) and there will be a number of these chairs in good condition which are available (free) to voluntary or charity groups.

If any group has need of these please contact  BILL.DUNN@DWP.GSI.GOV.UK on  0191 225 2289 for further information.

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With the end of the current financial year fast approaching, voluntary and community
organisations will be keeping a close eye on funding arrangements that they have with public
bodies for 2010/11 and beyond.

This time of year is always crucial for organisations – finding out what grant money is available,
entering into contract negotiations, and planning the future work of the organisation can be a
stressful and tense time.

Here we consider three scenarios that organisations have already experienced
and come to us with, identifying the relevant Compact principles and suggest some action that
you can take should they arise.

Scenario 1:
We don’t know yet what funding we are going to have for next year and beyond, causing
organisational problems as we can’t properly plan our work.

Compact undertakings:
9.1 Commit funding for three years or more. If this is is not the best way to deliver the best
value for money, government should explain clearly what alternative funding arrangements
could deliver the same outcomes.
9.2 Make funding decisions and inform organisations at least three months in advance of the
expected start date. Any departure from that time-scale should be justified and explained.

Action:
Try and engage with the public body early. Ask them what their plans are, and remind them of
their commitments to longer term funding and to give appropriate notice. Explain clearly the
impact on beneficiaries and staff and check the terms of your contract.

Scenario 2:
Our local authority is reconsidering their policies and programmes. Engagement with us
has been sketchy, and they are putting out a number of consultations that we have to
respond to quickly.

Compact undertakings:
1.1 Involve the sector from the earliest stages of policy development, on all relevant issues
likely to affect it. “Organisations should ensure that they know what duties public bodies are
under and how they can use the Compact to constructively engage with their funders.”
3.1 Give notice of forthcoming consultations so that organisations can plan ahead.
3.7 Conduct 12-week formal written consultations, with an explanation given for shorter-time
frames.

Action:
Even when having to operate under financial pressures a consultation has to be carried out properly. Don’t wait until the consultation is out – if you know that they are likely to be having one engage early and stress the importance of it being Compact compliant.

Scenario 3:
We have only just been told by our local authority that due to a reallocation of funds, we
are not going to be grant funded next year as we have been previously.

Compact undertakings:
9.2 Make funding decisions and inform organisations at least three months in advance of the
expected start date. Any departure from that time-scale should be justified and explained.
13.1 Assess the impact on beneficiaries, service users and volunteers before deciding to
reduce or end funding.
13.3 Give a minimum of three months’ notice in writing when ending a funding relationship or
other support, and provide a clear rationale for why the decisions has been taken.

Action:
Contact the local authority immediately. Ask them what assessment on the impact of this
decision has been taken. Remind them that they must provide three months notice.
Importantly, set out why this is essential – for your organisation to be able to manage change
effectively and act as good employers.

If this doesn’t work…
The Compact Advocacy Programme provides free advice and free advocacy for voluntary
and community organisations, both national and local. Contact them on 020 7520 2599 or
evsadvice@ncvo-vol.org.uk

Practical help and guidance on how to get the Compact working for your organisation
and in your local area can be found at www.compactvoice.org.uk

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The 2009/10 edition of North East Guide to Grants for Voluntary Organisatons is now on sale with 50% off!

This means that the cost is just £7.50 for larger organisations and just £4.25 for organisations with an income under £50,000 per annum.

The guide contains information on over 90 charitable trusts and foundations which support voluntary organisations and community groups in Northumberland, Tyne and Wear, County Durham and Teesside and is an essential tool for any fundraiser.

To download a copy of the order form please click here.

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GATESHEAD PRE-SCHOOL LEARNING ALLIANCE HAVE MOVED!

Gateshead Pre-school Learning Alliance moved premises on Friday 18th January, to St James and St Bede, Wordsworth Street, Gateshead NE8 3HE.

Gateshead PSLA provides information, advice and support to Pre-school Groups, (Playgroups, Nurseries, Parent and Toddler Groups) and Parents/Carers.

We offer resources, shop, training courses, publications and a toy library.

The Inclusion Project provides support, information and training to enable children with special needs to attend pre-schools. Development Workers visit pre-school groups offering advice and support.

Monday to Friday 9.30 am to 2 pm (term time only)
Toy Library: Wednesday 11 am to 2 pm
Shop: Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 11 am-2 pm (term time only)

Tel: 0191 477 1254 | Fax: 0191 477 7230 | Email

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Do you conduct, teach or lead singing in any kind of choral group?

If so then this course is for you! Explore and develop your skills; share your experiences and problems.
 
Making Music North East and abcd (north) are collaborating to mount this event, in three parts in Newcastle/Gateshead:
 
Saturday 13 March, 4 - 7pm. A model rehearsal of the Northern Sinfonia Chorus with Simon Halsey (Duruflé - Requiem and a new work by Howard Goodall).
Observation, questions and discussion.
 
Saturday 17 April. One-day workshop with Peter Broadbent and Keith Orrell. Royal Grammar School, Jesmond, Newcastle.
Explore preparation, communication and gesture, improve and practise your conducting skills with a guinea pig choir.
 
Saturday 24th April, 7.30pm. Northern Sinfonia with Sinfonia Chorus perform the Durufle Requiem and a new work by Howard Goodall in Hall 1 at The Sage Gateshead.
See the final results of the rehearsal you observed in March.
 
Who is it for?
For experienced and less experienced conductors in two parallel groups. Opportunities for hands-on practice.
 
Location
Gateshead/Newcastle (The Sage Gateshead/Royal Grammar School, Jesmond)
 
Cost
Fee for the whole project: £85
Concessions (full-time students or unwaged): £65
Schools, colleges, choirs and authorities may offer financial assistance and you are urged to enquire.
 
For more information
Contact Roger Crowther, rogercrowther@talktalk.net, 0191 284 6615 or Howard Layfield, howard.layfield@talktalk.net.
 
A brochure containing further information and an enrolment form is attached.

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Is your project looking for office space?

Then why not come and join us!

Here at John Haswell House we have lots of projects and activities going on within the building, we do however also offer office space to external groups from time to time.

This can be a real advantage to smaller organisations who may otherwise find themselves quite isolated or based in an area they feel has security issues.

An accessible office on the ground floor will be available for rent from February and a smaller (not fully accessible) second floor office is available now.  As well as the office space you will be able to book meeting/training rooms (our large rooms have hearing loop systems fitted), have the use of  the kitchen facilities, your office will be regularly cleaned and our friendly reception staff will greet your visitors, all for no extra charge. The building is secure, accessible and open Monday to Friday from 8.45am until 4.45pm for visitors and 7.45am until 6.45pm for staff and Occupiers.

For those organisations just starting out we may be able to loan some basic office furniture (IT equipment not included) to get you going, this again is at no extra cost.

For more information, cost or to view contact Beryl Robinson tel: 0191 478 4103 email:  berylrobinson@gvoc.org.uk

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The Alzheimers Society in Gateshead have a number of yellow collection tins free to a good home.

If you are interested in these please contact the Alzheimers Society on 0191 477 7490.

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Northern Pinetree Trust, based in Birtley, are a Social Enterprise supporting people with a disability and people who are disadvantaged.

The Trust has office accommodation available to let at preferential terms for CVS organisations. Offices are various sizes and can accommodate 1 person through to multiple use by up to 10 people. Fully DDA compliant, on site parking and kitchen facilities, as well as reception and office services.

Contact manager@pinetree-centre.co.uk or call 0191 492 8219.

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New free resource for community groups

Have you ever wanted to make your neighbourhood cleaner, greener, safer, but not known where to start? Perhaps your group is already doing this, but could use some new ideas?

The Sustainable Communities North East Initiative has created a new toolkit, to help voluntary and community groups throughout North East England. The Brighter Futures Together toolkit is a free, practical, easy-to-use website. It can give you information and advice, as well as telling you where you can go for further help. The website is at www.brighterfuturestogether.co.uk. It’s not just about being green! It’s about helping improve the lives of people across the region, with happier societies, stronger local economies and a protected environment.

The Toolkit features lots of different worksheets about simple actions for sustainability.  There are sheets on community safety, energy efficiency, health, sustainable travel, and even starting a credit union or community-owned shop.  You might already be doing some of this, and you might find other ideas for the future.  There are also sheets that give general help on things like planning projects, fundraising and how to work with the media.

The toolkit’s free to use, and we hope that lots of communities across the region will find it useful. Please visit the website. Use the worksheets, and send the link on to any friends who might be interested. A folder version of the toolkit is available if internet access is problematic for you.

What is a sustainable community?

Basically, sustainable communities ensure quality of life for their residents, within environmental limits. They are happy, healthy places to live, both now and into the future. They take steps to improve everyone’s wellbeing, through social, economic and environmental improvement.

Click here for an electronic version of the flyer.

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Wayout in Gateshead (WinG) is a charity based in the North East of England delivering personal development courses through adventure education. We are a voluntary organisation licensed to provide adventure education through the Adventure Activity Licensing Authority. We specialise in making people feel comfortable in new challenging environments and customise courses to the
needs and abilities of participants.

The Pushing the Possibilities project offers everyone aged 50 and over the chance to learn through outdoor activities. It gives you the chance to try new things, have fun, learn new skills, develop more self-confidence, meet new people and have a healthier life-style.

Pushing the Possibilities was developed by WinG, with funding from the Kellett Fund through the Community Foundation, because we believe that older people should have the same chance to enjoy the outdoors and learn from the experience as anyone else. We also believe that older people have skills that are often under-valued and under-used.

Learning through adventure is a powerful way of building confidence and changing people’s views of their own abilities and expectations. WinG staff are skilled at helping people to feel comfortable in new, challenging environments and activities. We always design every course to match the abilities of participants, so that everyone - able-bodied or disabled - is able to take part fully and succeed.

The Pushing the Possibilities project provides two courses which are designed specially to enable older people to achieve success in new activities, learn new skills and gain a positive view of their own abilities and potential. Participants may take part in the introduction course only, or they may go on to take part in a follow-up residential course.

At present there are opportunities available for people to undertake 3 outdoor activities 1 day per week.

If you are interested in these activities or in the project as a whole please contact Nick Coates, Senior Instructor on nick.wing@btconnect.com or 0191 487 9356.

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Would you like to

• Receive clear and accurate information about mental illness?

• Improve your skills in recognising mental health problems?

• Be confident in your ability to provide initial information & support to someone with a mental illness?

• Increase your understanding of your own mental health?

• Receive a nationally recognised certificate as a Mental Health First Aider?

What is Mental Health First Aid and what does it mean to be a Mental Health First Aider?

Mental Health First Aid or MHFA is about providing initial support for someone with a mental health problem. The course teaches the basics about different mental health problems and how to help someone who is experiencing mental health difficulties. It will not teach you how to be a therapist, but you will feel more confident in supporting clients, colleagues, friends and family. You will receive a certificate on completion of the course and a MHFA handbook.

Who is the course relevant for?

Anyone can attend the training – the benefits to individuals AND organisations are well researched and evaluated. The course has been delivered to organisations in the public and private sector worldwide. It is especially relevant to those who come into contact with members of the public who may be distressed and in need of support.

About the course

MHFA is a 12 hour course, usually spread over 2 full days.  It gives a basic knowledge in explaining the most common mental health problems such as anxiety and depression, as well as crisis first aid for suicide, panic attack and psychotic episode. For more information on cost, venues and dates please see contact details below. We also offer in house courses to organisations.

Contact us

Further information on the course content, dates and locations can be obtained from:

Lee Wyman, Training Support Officer

Telephone: 01642 803727

Email: lee.wyman@middlesbroughmind.org.uk

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The Stop Hate UK phoneline is available 24 hours a day for victims of any hate crimes to report incidences. Gateshead is the first borough in North East to launch the scheme. The helpline is funded by the Safer Gateshead which is part of the Gateshead Safer Stronger Communities and Culture Partnership, as part of a package to encourage people to report hate crime.

Hate crime is when someone is verbally or physically abused simply because they are disabled or because of their race, sexual orientation, religion, gender or faith. It can take many forms including verbal or physical abuse, damage to property, and even murder. It is unacceptable and illegal but Home Office research suggests that more than 80 per cent of Hate Crimes go unreported.

The helpline is run by Stop Hate UK, a national charity, based in Leeds for more than 12 years and is backed by Doreen Lawrence OBE the mother of Stephen Lawrence. The Stop Hate Line is unique in providing 24-hour access to operators who can offer confidential support and information for those affected by all types of hate crime.

The helpline can be used in confidence by anyone who has experienced hate crime, whether as a victim or a witness. It gives callers the chance to talk about what they have experienced, and obtain information about services and possible courses of action.  Details are only passed on to the police, council and relevant support agencies with the caller's consent.

The Stop Hate Line: 0800 138 1625, is a free 24-hour helpline. Or

Text Direct: 18001 0800 138 1625

For more information about the Stop Hate helpline visit www.stophateuk.org or call Rose Simkins at 0113 293 5100.

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Brief Intervention Training for Smoking Cessation

Free training for people working in community, voluntary or statutory settings to learn about giving stop smoking advice.

A free 3 hour training course for adults, held weekdays, evenings and weekends.  This includes presentations, discussions and practical activities.

What's covered:

• Why do people smoke;

• Attitudes to smoking and smokers;

• Health impacts of smoking and second-hand smoke;

• The effects of nicotine addiction;

• Levels of nicotine dependence and motivation to quit;

• Preparing to quit;

• Treatments and support services available;

• Nicotine withdrawal and successful coping strategies;

• Local NHS stop smoking services and how to access them; and

• Making appropriate referrals to stop smoking services.

To book a session, please contact Sector 3 Solutions on 07931 438317 or e-mail admin@sector3solutions.co.uk

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Gateshead Housing Company Community Fund has grants of up to £10,000 available for groups working with housing residents who are looking to bring people together or improve their local environment.  Both cash and in kind support if offered to direct project costs, activities and equipment.  Salaries and ongoing running costs cannot be supported.  To apply visit www.communityfoundation.org.uk where there are guidelines and an application form to download.

Applications will be considered every 3 months.

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Get involved in shaping services for children and young people

The Children’s Workforce Development Council’s (CWDC’s) vision is to build a world-class workforce for children, young people and families, and part of our mission includes making sure the child is at the centre of all services. For us, participation means ensuring the structures, resources and processes are in place so that we and our workforce can be steered by what children, young people and their families tell us.

One of the ways that we make sure this happens is by inviting groups of children and young people to help us shape our work. We are keen to keep building our existing database of groups so that we can reach as wide a range of children and young people across the country as possible.

We would like to invite you to join our database so that you hear about opportunities to shape our work when they arise, and so that we can listen and act upon what the children and young people you work with tell us.

If you would like to join our database, please fill in the attached form and we will make sure you hear about future opportunities. Your details will not be used for any other purpose or passed to any other parties. Please feel free to forward this invitation to other groups that you think may be interested.

For more information see our website, which includes information for children and young people:

www.cwdcouncil.org.uk/participation or www.cwdcouncil.org.uk/young-people

If you have any other questions suggestions or ideas email: us@cwdcouncil.org.uk.

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Funding Information North East (FINE) is pleased to announce the launch of the North East Third Sector Funding Opportunities Database.

This database replaces the North East Guide to Grants for Voluntary Organisations database.

Subscribers can now search for European, Local and Central Government, Lottery, Loans and Health Authority/PCT funding as well as Trusts and Foundations.

For more information please contact FINE on 0191 477 1253 or visit http://www.fine.org.uk/FINEservices.htm#netsfod

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With Alison, individuals can develop their skills and knowledge by studying interactive self-paced courses for FREE.

There are both ECDL and E-citizen available with more courses to be added as they become available.

Where large groups are concerned, a monitoring and reporting system can also be provided which allows you to remotely track the activity of each learner as the progress through the courseware. This costs £395 for 100 users/learners.

To see for yourself, click on the following link www.alison.com and register as a user to see the excellent quality of the learning that is available. You will be asked to register with a username and password of your choice, and your name and e-mail address.

This provides you with unlimited FREE access to all our courseware.

If you have any problems with the registration procedure, please don't hesitate to call the office on 07092-306000 ext. 204 or you can e-mail directly at sgriffin@advancelearning.com.

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Gateshead Mental Health User Forum, a service user group in Gateshead, has just produced a directory of mental health services in Gateshead and further a-field. The directory gives you the information to make choices about your health and help you on the road to recovery. It’s available in a printed version and a PDF you can download and keep. Once you’ve downloaded the PDF all you have to do is click on the contents and the details of any service will appear on your screen.

For further information contact Keith Metcalf at the Forum on 0191 490 0568 or Email: gmhuf@gmhuf.freeserve.co.uk.

To download a copy of the Directory please click here (please note this document is 1.2mb and may take a while to download).

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