Supporting Communities in Action: One East Midlands releases short films highlighting voluntary and community groups at work

As part of One East Midlands on-going commitment to showcasing the work of the voluntary and community sector we have produced two video case studies that demonstrate the value of local and regional activity; and the benefit it brings to people and communities.

The case studies demonstrate how local groups deliver services for the benefit of their communities. They also show the relationship between local front line groups and organisations which exist to support them. By working together, they ensure sustained benefits in communities

The first five minute film examines the interaction between Zimwomen and Northampton Volunteer Centre (NVC). “Zimwomen is there to empower women, young people and children for a better today and tomorrow”  Rutendo, founder Zimwomen Association

In the second film, the rural isolation of older people is explored through the work of Ticknall Lunch Club, supported by South Derbyshire CVS

The short videos were produced in collaboration with East Midlands Regional Infrastructure Consortium (EMRIC) and East Midlands Infrastructure Steering Group (EMISG),

EMRIC exists to bring together regional third sector infrastructure bodies to collaborate in order to advance regional infrastructure for the benefit of diverse frontline organisations. Made up of infrastructure agencies, it is focused on infrastructure delivery to maximise the help available to frontline voluntary and community sector groups. The consortium is proactively involved in identification of regional capacity building gaps and collaborates with its members to meet the identified need.

EMISG coordinates the work of local county-based organisations. Made up of representatives from third sector infrastructure organisations and funders, the Nottinghamshire Community Foundation and Capacitybuilders, its purpose is to inform and add value to the development of all third sector infrastructure organisations across the East Midlands.

Northampton Volunteer Centre is an independent, registered charitable company. They believe that community action and volunteering breaks down barriers and contribute to social inclusion, a sense of belonging and a better way of life. Zimwomen is a not-for-profit organisation in Northampton that works to empower women and children through education and training.

Operating since May 1996, South Derbyshire CVS is a voluntary sector development agency, based in Swadlincote. Their aim is to work with community groups, individuals to improve the quality of life in South Derbyshire. Ticknall Lunch Club, a member of South Derbyshire CVS, has been providing fortnightly lunches for their 40 retired members, from the local community, since September 2008.

To view the two video case studies visit the One East Midlands website at www.oneeastmidlands.org.uk/casestudies or the newly launched One East Midlands Youtube Channel www.youtube.com/user/oneeastmidlands1

‘Journey into the Unknown’ – SW Conference

South West Forum and the South West Strategic Infrastructure Partnership recently organised a free conference entitled ‘Journey into the Unknown’.

It took place at the University of Exeter on 23rd June and was aimed at anyone from the voluntary or public sector interested in shaping the future of the community and voluntary sector in the South West.

The event was very well attended and included a number of workshops and presentations from Debra Allcock-Tyler (CEO, Directory of Social Change) on the ‘Future of Support services’, and Neil McInroy (CEO of CLES) on ‘Localism and Sustainability’.

Read more about the conference at: www.southwestforum.org.uk.

Third Sector shines at South West Award Ceremony

Voluntary and community groups dominated the inaugural South West European Social Fund Awards for excellence in providing employment, skills and training services to socially excluded people.

At the Exeter ceremony last month, two thirds of the awards were picked up by nominees from across the third sector – highlighting the importance of the sector’s work in this area.

Shaz French (pictured, left) won the Convergence Personal Contribution Award for her work with South West Forum member Cornwall Neighbourhoods for Change (CN4C). Shaz overcame many personal challenges – as a lone parent with a lack of qualifications and a victim of domestic violence – when she started out on a CN4C ‘Working With People’ course, a course which helps people build skills to get into work. After the course she was encouraged to apply for a Trainee Advisor role with the organisation and now, following two promotions, she is a full-time Lead Adviser.