HVA News Blog

The Last Post

2009-06-03T08:37:00.000-07:00

Hastings Voluntary Action now puts its news on a blog which is part of its own website. This makes it much easier for us to produce content and means all future blog posts get included in the search facility on our new website.
You can keep us in your newsfeeds by visiting the following page on our website.

http://www.hastingsvoluntaryaction.org/index.php?q=blog/feed

Thanks for your time and hope you find the new feed useful.

Choices magazine for parents - Summer 09

2009-06-02T04:48:00.001-07:00

New-look Choices, magazine for parents is now on the East Sussex County Council website. The link is:
http://www.eastsussex.gov.uk/childrenandfamilies/childcare/parentsandcarers/finding/download.htm

This features regular articles on KITES services, childcare options, family support, things to do/make, youth information/support and lots more.

KITES family information offers information on childcare, fun things to do and where to go for more advise and support. KITES can also advise families on funding to help with cost of family life, such as tax credits. The range of information KITES hold grows with families covering 0-20 yr olds and we work with both families and professionals.

Hastings Community News - June 09

2009-06-01T07:02:00.000-07:00

The June 2009 edition of Hastings Community News has now been distributed by to 650 desktops by email and 300 addresses by post. This newsletter contains news about HVA, wider issues that concern the voluntary and community sector, information from local organisations and news for voluntary organisations from the statutory sector.

You can download a PDF copy of our Hastings Community News and view archive copies in PDF format from Hastings Voluntary Action website

http://www.hastingsvoluntaryaction.org/index.php?q=node/17

Recession Fund

2009-05-26T02:57:00.000-07:00

East Sussex County Council (ESCC), in agreeing the budget for 2009/10, have agreed to a one off allocation which can be used over several years, to support work to address the recession and the impact it has on residents, businesses and communities. Projects that the County Council wish to support using this fund will need to meet the criteria set out in the download below. Further information about this fund and the eligibility of your project from Kieran McNamara on 01273 481268.

www.hastingsvoluntaryaction.org/recession_fund_appn.doc (1meg)

www.hastingsvoluntaryaction.org/recession_fund_guidance.do c

Resisting the Recession Workshop

2009-05-26T02:46:00.000-07:00

For everyone who supports organisations and groups in the voluntary and community sector in East or West Sussex. This FREE event will help participants to get to know more about the effects of the recession on the VCS in Sussex, explore together what we can do, and work together to construct a robust evidence base which can be used to demonstrate the importance of the role of the local voluntary and community sector.

www.hastingsvoluntaryaction.org/recession_wshop_prog.doc

www.hastingsvoluntaryaction.org/recession_wshop_reply.doc

East Sussex County Council Seedcorn Fund

2009-05-20T08:43:00.001-07:00

Small voluntary and community organisations in East Sussex can apply for seedcorn funding for new initiatives that meet East Sussex County Council's strategic priorities.

Further information is available on the HVA website at:

http://www.hastingsvoluntaryaction.org/funding/grants_hva_administers.html

Alternatively phone HVA’s Admin team on 01424 444010 to request a pack.

Welfare Benefits Advice Worker - Job Advert

2009-05-11T07:13:00.000-07:00

Hastings Advice and Representation Centre are looking for a full-time ( 35 hours pw) advice worker to work as part of a small well-established team.
Salary £21,937 - £23,405 (pay award pending)

Further details downloadable as a PDF from
http://www.hastingsvoluntaryaction.org/harc_advice_worker.pdf

Service User Involvement Officer - Job Vacancy

2009-05-11T04:34:00.000-07:00

A vacancy now exists for a new position in the Supporting People team at East Sussex CC. Further details available at:

http://powered.jobsgopublic.com/eastsussex/jobs/service-user-involvement-officer-as1397/from/12cttr4b4kwnfo/25/of/112/opening_at/desc

Hastings Community News - May 2009

2009-04-28T03:23:00.001-07:00

The May 2009 edition of Hastings Community News has now been distributed by email to 650 desktops. This newsletter contains news about HVA, wider issues that concern the voluntary and community sector, information from local organisations and news for voluntary organisations from the statutory sector.

You can now download a PDF copy of our newsletter, or any of our archive, from Hastings Voluntary Action website

If its easier for you to have our newsletter sent directly to your email address - perhaps because you don't want to have to keep visiting the same page on our website every month to download a copy or because the person on the desk next to you keeps forgetting to 'forward' their copy to you. There are now instructions on how to request your own individula copy, on our page about how to get our newsletter by email

Help through tough times

2009-04-23T04:11:00.000-07:00

A one stop shop for advice on dealing with the credit crunch is now available online.
Hastings Borough Council’s website now features a host of practical ideas and contacts for everyone – from homeowners to small businesses.

Visit http://www.hastings.gov.uk/credit_crunch/ to find out more.

Future of Area Based Structures in Hastings

2009-04-23T02:11:00.000-07:00

Hastings Borough Council has published its report on the future of ‘Area Based Structures’, to be considered by Cabinet on April 27th. ABSs are reviewed in terms of the corporate priorities of community engagement and consultation. The report provides an update on the actions following a member led review of Area Co-ordination and recommends a member working group to consider further detail.
This report can be viewed at:http://digbig.com/4yqed

Speed matching – something new for Volunteers Week

2009-04-22T05:38:00.000-07:00

Volunteers Week (1 – 7 June) has reached its 25th anniversary and to celebrate we are going to do something a bit different by holding a Volunteer Speed matching event at AZUR on 2 June. The idea of running a volunteer recruitment event based on speed dating might sound a bit of a joke, but we think you will find it a productive way of introducing new volunteers to your organisation. The event will have all the elements of speed dating, with score sheets, stop watch and daters moving tables when the 4 minute whistle sounds.

Potential volunteers will be asked to register for the speed matching and there will be two general information sessions for people who cannot attend the speed matching. The two speed matching sessions are at 2.30pm and 5.30pm to cater for people who are available at different times of the day. The general information sessions will take place between 4pm and 5pm and again between 7pm and 8pm.

If you would like to find out more or register to join the event – download the PDF file from the HVA website at http://digbig.com/4yqct or ring Rose Austen 01424 446060/444010

AGM Presentations

2009-04-21T03:29:00.000-07:00

Powerpoint presentations made at the Hastings Voluntary Action AGM/ conference are now available as PDF downloads from the Hastings Voluntary Action website.

Communities in Control

Directors Report

How HCN works

SpeakUp-presentation

Hastings Community Network woo Elected Members

2009-04-20T06:21:00.000-07:00

On 2nd April, 10 Hastings Community Network Representatives met with 8 Elected Members in the Council Chambers to build bridges, get to know each other and ask any burning questions on behalf of the voluntary and community sector
Participants in the event were asked to complete a short questionnaire to help us to gauge how useful the event was – what worked and what didn’t.
Responses were received from 6 HCN representatives and 4 Elected Members. The responses, not surprisingly, showed that different people got different things out of the event, but there
All respondents agreed that the event was worthwhile. There was also wide praise for the innovative and light-hearted “speed-dating” style. Most respondents agreed though that the time slots were too brief, and more could have been achieved if they were not quite so hurried.
The responses from both sides indicated a perceived lack of understanding between the two “sides”. More than one respondent commented that the event provided a platform for elected members to state their views (in response to questions) but there was less opportunity for the elected members to learn much about the HCN representatives or their work in the community.
Whilst there was little indication that any tangible result might come out of this event alone, it was generally agreed that more communication of this type between the sectors could only be a good thing, and that a wider selection of representatives on both sides (rather than just the “usual suspects”) should be encouraged to attend.

You can download the full report with highlights from the event as a word file from:
http://hastingsvoluntaryaction.blogspot.com/Speed dating report.doc

or as a PDF from:
http://hastingsvoluntaryaction.blogspot.com/Speed dating report.pdf

or email fran@hvauk.org or phone 01424 204685 to ask for a hard copy.

Volunteering Opportunities - April 09

2009-04-20T04:28:00.000-07:00

There are now new April 09 volunteering opportunities available at our Volunteer Centre which have just been posted on the Currrent Volunteering Opportunities page of the Hastings Voluntary Action website.

Fundraising Deadlines

2009-04-20T03:02:00.000-07:00

A reminder of the forthcoming deadlines of a few popular local funders
22 April - Grassroots Grants - up to £5000 for the running costs of small groups that have been active for a year - www.sussexgiving.org.uk
22 April - ESF Community Grants - up to £12,000 to help people on the path to employment - www.svcslc.org.uk
30 April - Sussex Community Foundation main grants - up to £5000 - www.sussexgiving.org.uk
15 May - Southern FM Help a Local Child - www.southernfm.co.uk

Small Grants Guide - April 09

2009-04-08T08:00:00.000-07:00

The April edition of the HVA Small Grants Guide can now be downloaded as a PDF from the Hastings Voluntary Action website.

Wanted – Ideas to in Enhance Life in Hastings & St Leonards

2009-04-07T06:23:00.000-07:00

If you work or live in Hastings or St Leonards, Hastings Borough Council want to hear your ideas and proposals for local changes as part of their consultation on the Sustainable Communities Act.

Examples of the types of things that could be worked up into proposals and further information is available on the HBC website at:
http://digbig.com/4ypbh
Proposal Forms are at:
http://digbig.com/4ypbq
Panel members are also being sought to consider proposals submitted. Further information at:
http://digbig.com/4ypbm
The deadline for proposals is the 18th of May.

Coordinator for TWDPG - Job Advert

2009-04-07T01:58:00.000-07:00

Tunbridge Wells District Partnership Group (TWDPG) for People with a Learning Disability are seeking a Coordinator

Role: To assist the co-chairs to ensure the TWDPG functions effectively and serves the needs of local people with a learning disability. This includes:-
Keeping in contact with members to help and support them where possible.
Assisting to organise and attend DPG meetings bi-monthly
Assisting to organise and attend the Governance Group bi monthly
Assisting to ensure the DPG is delivering the objectives set in the annual plan.
Networking with existing contacts and liaising with other local organisations and encouraging them to work with the TWDPG to deliver better opportunities for people with a Learning Disability and their families
A suitable applicant will be an enthusiastic, committed and well organised person, who enjoys working with others. He/She should have a knowledge and understanding of the priorities outlined in the White Papers, Valuing People and Valuing People Now and be prepared to work hard to make things better for People with Learning Disabilities in T/Wells area.
A suitable applicant over 18 years of age with some experience of life.
They should be able to get around the Tunbridge Wells area in a timely manner
Hours: Flexi 16 hours weekly Salary: Negotiable
To ask for more information, a job description and an application form please contact:
Sue Gray on: 07709072269 or email: suwork@tiscali.co.uk

Launch Event - Coastal Regeneration Research Centre

2009-04-06T03:27:00.000-07:00

University Centre Hastings, the home to the University of Brighton in Hastings, is launching its first research centre, the Coastal Regeneration Research Centre (CRRC), on THURSDAY 30TH APRIL. Advanced booking required.

Attendance form and further details from
http://www.brighton.ac.uk/cupp/Events/index.html

Public Transport details available via google map linked to HVA google calendar.
http://www.hastingsvoluntaryaction.org/googlecalendar.html

3 Independent Advocate Posts - closing date 24 April

2009-04-02T07:41:00.000-07:00

Three independent advocates needed for a pilot advocacy project in East Sussex.
More details at: http://www.cftc.org.uk/index.php?page=354

Hastings Community News - April 2009 edition

2009-04-02T02:34:00.000-07:00

The April 2009 edition of Hastings Community News was distributed by email to 650 desktops on the 1st of April. This newsletter contains news about HVA, wider issues that concern the voluntary and community sector, information from local organisations and news for voluntary organisations from the statutory sector.

You can now download a PDF copy of our newsletter, or any of our archive, from Hastings Voluntary Action website

If its easier for you to have our newsletter sent directly to your email address - perhaps because you don't want to have to keep visiting the same page on our website every month to download a copy or because the person on the desk next to you keeps forgetting to 'forward' their copy to you. There are now instructions on how to request your own individula copy, on our page about how to get our newsletter by email

The HVA Track Record

2009-03-26T05:57:00.000-07:00

New information on the recent achievements of Hastings Voluntary Action is now available on the key achievements page of our website.

http://www.hastingsvoluntaryaction.org/what_we_do/key_achievements.html

Count Me in Too Community Event

2009-03-25T06:17:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 1st April 2009, Drop in anytime from 4pm-8pm
Friends Meeting House, Ship Street, Brighton

The Count me In Too Research Project has been exploring lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans lives in Brighton & Hove, working in partnership with LGBT people, LGBT groups, and service providers to identify issues for local LGBT people and plan how to address these.

This free event marks the start of the next exciting phase of the project, which has secured funding into 2010.

Refreshments available throughout the event
There will be a quiet space for those who need it.

Flyer available at http://www.spectrum-lgbt.org/cmiToo/downloads/CMITCommunityEventFlier_final.pdf

www.countmeintoo.co.uk

Hastings & Rother Health and Social Care Forum Well Being Day - 26 March

2009-03-19T03:17:00.000-07:00

Thursday, 26 March, 09:00am – 15:00pm, Horntye Park Cricket Ground, Bohemia Road, Hastings

Information on good health models, making the most of your leisure, healthy eating and a healthy lifestyle. Stalls representing the voluntary, community and statutory sector organistions. Further details and stall bookings- Hastings Voluntary Action, Cheryl: 01424 444010 Email: Cheryl@hvauk.org

A Google map with public transport info on bus stops available on the HVA Google Calendar for 26 March.

http://www.hastingsvoluntaryaction.org/googlecalendar.html

Volunteering Opportunities March 09

2009-03-16T07:34:00.000-07:00

The March 09 list of volunteering opportunities available at our Volunteer Centre have just appeared on the Currrent Volunteering Opportunities page of the Hastings Voluntary Action website.

Charity Commission Information Day - 25th March 2009

2009-02-27T03:18:00.000-08:00

On 25th March 2009 Hastings Voluntary Action are hosting an important training event for local voluntary and community groups at The Magnet Centre, St. Leonards-on-Sea. We are pleased to welcome Ken Brew from the Charities Commission who is giving you the opportunity to find out more about changes made under the 2006 Charities Act, and how they will affect all voluntary and community groups whether you have charitable status or not. Issues covered will include: Trustee duties and responsibilities, Charitable Incorporated Organisations (CIOs) - what are they and how will they work, and the implications of the economic downturn

The event is divided into a morning and an afternoon session, both of which are free. You are welcome to attend either or both of the sessions but pre-booking is required. The event is free and you can reserve your place by contacting Sue, Cheryl or Mary at Hastings Voluntary Action on 01424-444010 or e-mail admin@hvauk.org

More information is available in PDF format at

http://www.hastingsvoluntaryaction.org/CC_infoday.pdf

A booking form in MS Word can be downloaded at:

http://www.hastingsvoluntaryaction.org/CC_infoday_booking.doc

Volunteering Opportunities - Feb / March 09

2009-02-24T05:01:00.000-08:00

The February / March 09 list of volunteering opportunities available at our Volunteer Centre have just gone up on the Currrent Volunteering Opportunities page of the Hastings Voluntary Action website.

HVA Step in To Save Small Grants

2009-02-24T03:05:00.000-08:00

The Councils Small Grants budget – which was listed to be cut – was preserved as a result of a last minute intervention by HVA and some sensible partnership working on the part of Councillors. HVA agreed to administer the grants without charge for the next 2 years if the Council restored the cut in their budget setting process. Our intervention received cross party support and £10,000 budget was restored at last nights Full Council meeting.

Speaking after the meeting HVAs Director Steve Manwaring welcomed the Councils change of position “Whilst the amount involved is relatively modest these small grants do represent exceptional value and enables the work of small community groups – who tend to be excluded from complex commissioning processes – to be eligible for financial support from the Council. We are pleased that the Council have taken a sensible view and accepted our proposal.”

Free training for non-statutory organisations working with children and young people

2009-02-23T05:50:00.001-08:00

The Voluntary Sector Reference Group has gained funding from the Children's Workforce Development Council to deliver the Workforce Stragegy Partners Programme in East Sussex. The Programme aims to improve the lives of children and young people. It will do this by enabling community, voluntary, independent and private organisations to develop its workforce so that it has appropriate skills and knowledge to work effectively with children and young people

To book a place please contact Liz on 01622 741887 or email l.abiaad@btinternet.com

Dealing with Challenging Behaviour
Monday 9th March 5pm - 7pm Eastbourne

Appraisal
Wednesday 18 March 4.30pm - 7pm Lewes

Supervision
Tuesday 10th March 4.30pm - 7pm Lewes

Child Protection Level 1
Thursday 19th March 5pm - 7pm Hastings

First Aid - Appointed Person
Saturday 14th March 10am - 1.30pm Hastings

Equality & Diversity Awareness
Thursday 26th March 5pm - 7pm Hastings

First Aid - Appointed Person
Wednesday 18th March 4pm - 7.30pm Eastbourne

Record Keeping & Report Writing
Monday 30th March 4.30pm - 7pm Lewes

Big Event - post event report

2009-02-23T03:48:00.000-08:00

'The Big Event - post-event report and useful resources', consists of information from the speakers, notes and comments from the workshops and a lot of useful names, links and addresses related to the discussions . It is in Adobe Acrobat PDF file format and may take between a few seconds and a couple of minutes to download (aprox 650K)

http://www.askcasper.org.uk/sites/askcasper.org.uk/files/BigEventReportColour.pdf

Govt Help for VCS During Economic Downturn

2009-02-13T09:13:00.001-08:00

On 9th February the Govt launched its strategy ("Real Help for Communities") to support Voluntary and Community Organisations during the economic downturn. HVA have produced a briefing paper setting out its main proposals which will be available on our website soon. For an advanced copy please e-mail steve@hvauk.org A copy of the full document is available from the following weblink http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/third_sector/real_help_for_communities.aspx

Win £100 voucher for your organisation

2009-02-13T08:05:00.000-08:00

HBC are working with private landlords, housing associations, developers and other partners on a new housing strategy for the town. By answering just one question - "What can we do to make sure that everyone in Hastings & St Leonards has a decent home to live in?" - you will be entered into our free draw to win a £100 voucher of your choice.

To submit your comments and be entered in the free prize draw to win £100, please visit the following link - http://www.hastings.gov.uk/housing_advice/feedback.aspx

You can also provide your comments by completing a postcard available at the following locations:

Renaissance House, The Old Christchurch School, London Road, St Leonards on Sea
Hastings Information Centre, Priory Meadow, Queen's Road, Hastings
Queensbury House, Havelock Road, Hastings
Closing date for comments: Friday 6th March 2009

Further details -

Alan Sheppard - 01424 451369
Housing Policy Officer
Hastings Borough Council
Renaissance House
The Old Christchurch School
London Road
ST. LEONARDS ON-SEA
TN37 6AN

Suicide and Young People Free Conference Places Available

2009-02-10T07:02:00.000-08:00

SOS (Survivors of Suicide) East Sussex Coastal Service in partnership with Grassroots Training CIC are holding a
FREE 1 day conference
‘Preventing Suicide in Young People’
Conference aims:
To raise awareness of suicide with a particular focus on how it affects young people
To provide information on the range of support that currently exists for any young person experiencing thoughts of suicide and their friends and families
To explore the idea of establishing a young person’s suicide prevention forum for workers in East Sussex
To offer some time for networking including sharing good practice and support

Who is it for?
· Statutory and voluntary sector workers
· Service users
· Carers

When?
20th March 2009
9.30am til 4pm

Where?
The conference is being held in a venue in Hastings

Costs:
The conference is FREE to anyone using or working in services in Eastbourne, Hastings, Newhaven and Seaford. Late cancellation/non attendance charges will apply.

How do I book a place?
Contact:
Jenny Pickup (Grassroots Training)
Telephone: 01273 675764
or
Email office@grassrootstraining.org.uk and ask for a booking form

East Sussex Youth Homelessness Strategy Stakeholder Event

2009-02-10T06:55:00.000-08:00

East Sussex Youth Homelessness Strategy Stakeholder Workshop
Monday 9th March 2009
2.00 pm
Assembly Rooms, Town Hall, Grove Road, Eastbourne, BN21 4UG

Preventing youth homelessness is a key priority within the East Sussex Children and Young People’s Plan. It is also top of the agenda for the government. The reasons for this are simple and stark. Homelessness reduces life chances. If young people become homeless they are far more likely than their peers to experience:
*A high risk of long term unemployment
*Inappropriate Housing
*Extreme Poverty
*Mental health problems
*Exclusion from mainstream education
*A far greater risk of involvement with drug and alcohol misuse and crime

As partners in the East Sussex Children and Young People’s Trust, the county council and all the districts and boroughs in East Sussex have therefore been working together to develop a strategy for tackling youth homelessness. As key local stakeholders your contribution is vital to ensure East Sussex succeeds in preventing vulnerable young people from becoming homeless. You are therefore warmly invited to this workshop where you will be able to find out about more the work that has been done to date and contribute to the final strategy and action plan.

Click on email address to book your place ssteele@hastings.gov.uk.

Contact: Sophie Steele on 01424 451308 for more info.

OFSTED Exemptions - Don't Forget!

2009-02-10T00:17:00.000-08:00

The Childcare Act 2006 obliges most childcare providers - including charities working with children under the age of 8 - to register with OFSTED. There are exemptions. Many Churches and charities run short term activities like a holiday club or summer scheme lasting 14 days or less. In these circumstances an exemption can be obtained BUT it must be obtained in advance (and at least 14 days before the activity is due to commence). As groups may be thinking about planning for the summer this reminder has been posted to ensure that proper steps are taken. Further details are available from www.ofsted.gov.uk

Finding the Funds workshop

2009-02-09T04:44:00.000-08:00

A one day free workshop for Hastings Voluntary Action members. You can attend on either the 19th, 23rd or 24th March. The session will include: * Where you can get funding for your voluntary and community group * How to complete an application form for funding * Planning your funding in the future This workshop is aimed at staff, volunteers or trustees of voluntary and community groups who are relatively new or who have little fundraising experience. It will be most relevant for small groups or projects looking for funding up to £10,000. This workshop is FREE for up to 2 representatives of HVA member organisations, and £10 per person for other voluntary and community groups. Further details on the main training page of HVA website
http://www.hastingsvoluntaryaction.org/training/default.html

Google map for venue available on relevant dates in our googlecalendar
http://www.hastingsvoluntaryaction.org/googlecalendar.html

The Third Sector National Learning Alliance (TSNLA) website

2009-02-05T01:56:00.000-08:00

TSNLA is a voice for all Third Sector learning and skills providers. It is made up of organisations from the Third Sector, speaking on behalf of the Third Sector and using its website to share information on learning and skills. More information is available on its website at:

http://www.tsnla.org.uk/

Online Survey on the Effects of the Economic Downturn

2009-02-02T05:01:00.000-08:00

Hastings Voluntary Action is using Survey Monkey to gather information about the impact of economic recession on the voluntary and community sector in Hastings and St Leonards.

This work is also being carried out by other Councils for Voluntary Service in East Sussex - so please only answer this survey on behalf of voluntary or community organisations active in the Hastings & St Leonards area.

The survey consists of 7 questions and will take roughly 5 minutes to complete

Click here to take the survey

Area Based Grants - Feedback to Council

2009-01-30T04:53:00.000-08:00

We are receiving representations from groups about the Area Based Grants process and how this is being administered. As we did with the Council's recent Community Partnerships Commissioning process HVA will be feeding back to the Council the opinions of local groups. If you would like to comment please contact HVA's Director Steve Manwaring on steve@hvauk.org to record your views and experiences. These will be reported back to the Council in a way which reflects the range of opinion expressed and, where this is requested, in a way which does not explicitely identify the group. Let us have your views!

1m Small Grants Achieved

2009-01-27T07:08:00.000-08:00

A few years ago Hastings Voluntary Action worked with others partners to form the Sussex Community Foundation - a new charity designed to increase donmations from companies and individuals and distribute this in small grants to groups in Sussex. Next month when its grants panel gathers for its regular meeting the Foundation will have given away over £1m in grants accross Sussex. To find out more about the Foundations Work or make an application please visit http://www.sussexgiving.org.uk/home/index.php

HVA Director Steve Manwaring welcomed the announcement. "Small grants are vital to the work of so many local groups. We are pleased that our association with Sussex Community Foundation has been successful and has reached the landmark 'million pound' mark. At a time when small grants are increasingly under pressure - Hastings Borough Council have recently cut their programme - the work of bodies like the Community Foundation will assume increasing significance.

John Routledge Confirmed as AGM/Conference Keynote Speaker

2009-01-23T04:06:00.000-08:00

John Routledge has agreed to be the keynote speaker at HVAs conference “Communities in Control?” looking at issues of representation and involvement.

As a former Chief Executive of the Urban Forum and part of the Governments Active Communities Unit John has seen the issues of community representation from the perspectives of the Voluntary Sector, Local and Central Government. John is currently Head of the Voluntary Sector Unit at Brighton City Council. We are really pleased to have someone of John’s experience and insight to inform our discussion on this crucial topic. The AGM/Conference takes place at 9.30 on 16th February @ Horntye Sports Complex. To book your place please contact a member of our admin team (01424-444010) or e-mail pauline@hvauk.org

A New Home for HVA?

2009-01-23T01:58:00.000-08:00

Hastings Voluntary Action are pleased to announce that planning permission has been granted for the creation of the Community Anchor project at Jackson Hall (Portland Place). We anticipate that work will be starting on-site in July subject to final approval from the Big Lottery. As well as providing a new base for HVA the proposed conversion increases the availability of accommodation for other groups will provide “incubator space” for new community groups as well as meeting and training space. Look out for more details in future editions of Hastings Community News.

Economic Downturn: How is it affecting you?

2009-01-23T01:28:00.000-08:00

Hastings Voluntary Action are part of a task group monitoring the impact of the Economic Downturn on Voluntary and Community Sector groups so that appropriate support can be made available where this is possible. We are keen to hear from local groups about their experiences and the challenges they are facing as a result of the current economic climate. You can e-mail HVA's director on steve@hvauk.org to register your experiences, issues or concerns. Any information we receive will be treated in confidence and will be reported in ways which do not identify the organisation concerned unless you have given your consent for your comments to be attributed directly.

Come to our AGM and Conference

2009-01-22T04:27:00.000-08:00

We are holding our Annual General Meeting on the morning of 16th of February at Horntye Park. If you can spare the time and you want to come along (perhaps because your organisation benefits from membership of HVA, you are one of our Statutory Sector colleagues or simply just interested in what we do) we would really like to take this opportunity to meet up with you. However, we do need to know who is turning up so please fill out this simple AGM Booking Form and return it to pauline@hvauk.org if you want to come along. Registration for the AGM starts at 9.00am and the formal business will be followed by an event called 'Communities in Control' about effective commuity representation. The structured proceedings will be followed at 1pm by a free networking lunch. You can download a full programme for our conference and AGM in PDF format here.

Hastings Borough Council's Community Partnerships Fund

2009-01-19T06:50:00.000-08:00

Hastings Voluntary Action has taken a keen interest in Hastings Borough Council's Cabinet decisions made on 5th January 2009 allocating funding to voluntary organisations following its commissioning process and ending its small grants and transport programmes. We have reviewed the Councils use of this budget over recent years and, on behalf of voluntary and community sector organisations, published a Councillors briefing and analysis in the run-up to the Budget setting process to:-

Highlight the 27% reduction in the CPF budget since 2004/2005
Advocate for the restoration of the cut to small grants programme
Call for the restoration of the link to inflation which existed until 2005/2006

You can see a copy of our briefing on the HVA website

ESCC Funding News

2009-01-13T00:45:00.000-08:00

East Sussex County Council has just published the January 09 edition of its publication called Funding News. This can be viewed at:
http://www.eastsussex.gov.uk/community/funding/updates/default.htm

County Council Draft Cycling Strategy

2009-01-12T03:07:00.000-08:00

The County Council’s Cycling Strategy is being revised, it is intended to be the framework which informs and co-ordinates all policies and programmes of action which can help to promote cycling in East Sussex. The strategy will be available under the ‘Current Consultations’ section of the County Councils website along with a questionnaire which can be downloaded and returned to the freepost address provided. Further details at http://www.eastsussex.gov.uk/yourcouncil/consultation/current

Play Pathfinder Grants

2008-12-23T07:52:00.000-08:00

Applications are being sought for the Play Pathfinder Grants, to build or further develop play spaces in East Sussex. This is a tight timescale where it is hoped that all applications will be submitted by the end of February 2009.

Guidance notes have been issued and can now be downloaded in MS Word format from the Hastings Voluntary Action Website.

http://www.hastingsvoluntaryaction.org/play-pathfinder-grants-hastings.doc

East Sussex County Council - Community Partnership Finance

2008-12-11T05:17:00.000-08:00

East Sussex County Council have launched their Community Partnership Finance programme. Priority 2 is funding to help meet the cost costs of voluntary and community organisations that are delivering activities and services in at least one of the following ESCC service areas:
Adult Social Care
Children
Young People
Mental Health
Disabilities
Community Transport
Volunteering Support
Substance Misuse
This funding will be open to organisations that work across the entire county or a significant proportion of it. However it will also be open to those who operate in one borough or district, but wish to work collaboratively with an organisation in another geographical area delivering a similar activity or service.

For more information and an application form contact Paul Rideout at ESCC on 01273 482911 or visit www.eastsussex.gov.uk/community/funding The deadline for completed applications is 3 February 2009.

The Big Event

2008-11-24T04:30:00.000-08:00

Scheduled for December 4th in Eastbourne. A celebration of community and voluntary action, helping to build stronger community organisations in East Sussex. Presentation of ChangeUp annual report, meet the SpeakUp reps, Launch of the new Community Support Portal http://www.askcasper.org.uk/ free networking lunch (bring along anything about your group to share).Workshops : (1)How do groups influence decisions at county level? Find out how SpeakUp links to other local community representation, get your voice heard! (2)What can I find on the CaSPer website and what sort of IT support is available for small groups and organisations? (3)What sort of help and support do groups need? Find out about funding advice, resources, training. Help plan ahead to ensure this is in place for you. Further details : speakup@southdownscvs.org.uk. Or fax back to 01273 483834 or ring 01273 483832
Big Event Flyer Dowloadable as Word Document

Hastings Area Based Grants Programme

2008-11-17T07:55:00.000-08:00

Hastings Borough Council have produced detailed specifications of interventions that will be funded by the Area Based Grants, and are seeking expressions of interest from organisations that are capable of delivering these interventions. These include skills training, jobs brokerage and business support. The deadline for expressions of interest is 5pm on Friday 12 December 2008. Programme specifications (1.1 meg) , the expression of interest form and guidance notes can be downloaded from this website.

For further information contact Robert Mee, Regeneration Programme Manger, Hastings Borough Council on 01424 451797 or email Regeneration@hastings.gov.uk

Community Cohesion Consultation

2008-11-11T03:25:00.000-08:00

Hastings Borough Council is carrying out a Community Cohesion Survey (until 14th December) and has published its community cohesion planned actions

Training – Finding the Funds

2008-11-03T02:38:00.000-08:00

Tuesday 9 December 2008 (9.30am – 12.30pm) OR Wednesday 10 December 2008 (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Do you want more ideas about how you can get funding for your group, or improve the success rate of your funding applications? Aimed at staff, volunteers or trustees of voluntary and community groups who are relatively new or who have little fundraising experience. Free for HVA members, and there will be a £10 charge for other voluntary and community organisations. More details on Finding the Funds flyer.

Volunteer Co-ordinators’ Programme – Spring 2009

2008-10-20T07:43:00.000-07:00

Voluntary and Community Sector Managers and Co-0rdinators can keep up to date with issues such as recruiting, supervising, sustaining, motivating and retaining volunteers by attending Spring training featuring in the training pages of our website.

Events for Black History Month

2008-10-20T02:28:00.000-07:00

Black History Month is being marked by University Centre Hastings with two events, one on Wednesday 29th October and one on Monday 20 October. Further details on the HVA Google Calendar

New Items on Fundraising Section of Website

2008-10-17T03:34:00.000-07:00

A new external links to East Sussex County Council Funding News and GRANTnet search tool both now feature in the ‘elsewhere on the web column’ on the righthand side of all pages in the Funding section.

Next Meeting of Hastings Local Strategic Partnership Board

2008-09-10T09:11:00.000-07:00

Mon, 15 Sep, 10:00 – 13:00
Town Hall, Queens Road, Hastings, TN34 1QR ()
Observers welcome, entry on request via Information Centre, Queens Square
Papers for the meeting are available at:
http://www.hastings.gov.uk/meetings/default.aspx?showmeetingsmonth=8&showmeetingsyear=8&showdocs=yes&meetingtype=hlsp

East Sussex LINk – Elections to Core Group

2008-09-10T08:45:00.000-07:00

The East Sussex LINk will be holding elections in October for the core group. This group will be leading and developing the LINk and those elected will stand for the next year. To finalise the election process a meeting will be held in public on Tuesday 30th September, 10.00-2.30 with lunch, at the Uckfield Civic Centre. Those who wish to take part in the election process or stand for the core group will need to be a registered participant of the LINk. If you wish to attend on the 30th or for a registration form or further information please contact us on 01323 514510, text 07968 119806 or email info@thecountylink.net.

Fuel Poverty Awareness Workshop

2008-09-10T05:41:00.000-07:00

Thu, 9 Oct, 10:00 – 12:30 Battle Memorial Hall, 81 High St, Battle, Sussex TN33 0AQ ()
Opportunity to become aware of the grants and support that is available to assist local residents to make their homes warmer and more energy efficient, and themselves healthier.

Organised by East Sussex Healthy Homes, Rother District Council, Action in Rural Sussex and Hastings & Rother PCT at Battle Memorial Hall, including refreshments. Would appreciate receiving all acceptances by 25 September - Upon response, further information will be sent out. please contact Graeme Quinnell on 01424 787597 graeme.quinnell@rother.gov.uk or Pat Buesnel at Action in Rural Sussex. pat.buesnel@ruralsussex.org.uk

Cultural Voices - Summer 08 edition

2008-09-08T05:59:00.000-07:00

Cultural Voices - the publication primarily produced by HVA Black and Minority Ethnic Community Project - has recently printed its Summer 08 edition. You can get a paper copy from the Hastings Voluntary Action office. Details of how to get here are on the following link:
http://www.hastingsvoluntaryaction.org/contact_us/default.html
or you can download a PDF copy from the Hastings BME Project website at
http://www.hastingsbme.org.uk/newsletter/newsletter.htm

Community Partnership Fund Commissioned Grants 2009 - 2011

2008-09-08T03:01:00.000-07:00

Hastings Borough Council have identified a list of community projects that they want to fund from April 2009, and are seeking voluntary and not-for-profit community groups to deliver these projects. All documents relevant to this process can now be downloaded from an HBC Commissioned Grants page in the fundraising section of this website.

Guidance on Volunteers Expenses

2008-09-08T02:59:00.000-07:00

New Good Practice Guidance on ‘Volunteer Expenses’, has now been added to the ‘Good Practice Guide for Volunteer Involving Organisations’ which is available in the Volunteering Section of the website www.hastingsvoluntaryaction.org

Guidance added to HVA Good Practice Guide for Volunteer Involving Organisations

2008-09-08T02:58:00.001-07:00

Problem Solving is the latest theme explored in our Good Practice Guide for Volunteer Involving Organisations. Having a problem solving procedure helps to create consistency, and demonstrates your organisation’s commitment to volunteering good practice. While employees have grievance and disciplinary policies, volunteers are not covered by employment or equal opportunities legislation. In fact, volunteers only have the same legal rights as the general public (eg Health and Safety and Data Protection), so such a policy helps to ensure that volunteers are treated fairly and are not discriminated against. This Guide to Problem Solving Proceedures can now be downloaded as PDF Number 5 from the Good Practice Guide in the Volunteering Section of our website.

Throwing the Baby Out with the Bath Water - the shift from grant aid to commissioning

2008-09-08T02:50:00.000-07:00

Jill Ferguson, Deputy Director of HVA gives an overview of the growing trend for funders to move away from grant funding toward an increasingly contractual relationship with the voluntary and community sector (VCS). She argues that this could have a detrimental effect in terms of stifling local voluntary action and increasing uneccessary bureaucracy and urges local funders to support a mixed economy of funding where grants, service contracts and endowments all have their place. This information can be found in Briefing Paper 30 - Throwing the Baby Out with the Bath Water

Community Partnership Fund Commissioned Grants 2009 - 2011

2008-09-08T02:44:00.000-07:00