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Support Services

Getting started

For some voluntary and community sector groups, the down-side of a new project or community initiative can be all the paperwork and legalities involved in getting a great idea off the ground. At SCVO advice is on hand to help guide organisations through this sometimes complicated process.

We recognise that each project or community initiative is different and our approach is tailored around your needs. Our staff are on hand to support  all voluntary and community sector projects and initiatives  in the following areas:

Deciding upon a legal structure

SCVO can guide you through the process of deciding upon an appropriate legal structure for your group and help demystify the jargon. For example, a formal (constituted) group, an informal (unconstituted) group, or a  Company Limited by Guarantee (incorporated).

Developing a governing document

If your group wishes to be formalised, we can support you in developing a suitable governing document (e.g. constitution or memorandum of articles and association) to suit your structure and needs.

Management committee development

Do you know how to get your management committee off the ground or develop an existing committee? We can advise you on how to initiate and organise your management committee, understand committee roles and leadership.

Making links with other organisations

Do you know and understand what other services groups are providing in your local area? SCVO can support your group to make links with other organisations, creating possibilities for collaborative working and learning.

Sustainability

Do you know how to sustain your group over the long-term? SCVO has a range of services to support many different aspects of your group/organisations development over time. We can also signpost you to other voluntary and community sector (VCS) or statutory agencies that might be of benefit to you.

For support or more information contact SCVO Capacity Building Team, tel: 0121 525 1127, or email: support@scvo.info

 

Support for small, new and emerging Groups

Community support programme

Funded by the Big Lottery Fund, SCVO’s Community Support Programme got underway in February 2010. The aim of the four-year initiative is to provide focused and committed development support for small neighbourhood level voluntary and community groups in Sandwell. Five areas in total will be selected and will each receive dedicated support over 12 months.

Support for Langley and Oldbury

Langley and Oldbury Wards have been selected as the fifth area to receive support. This selection was based upon factors such as, known levels of voluntary and community activity, levels of deprivation and consultation with other community workers. Helen Trueman, Small Groups Development Officer is leading the programme and provides dedicated and tailored support and advice on a wide range of areas including:

  • Writing constitutions
  • Options for organisational structure
  • Forming an effective committee
  • Writing policies and procedures
  • Identifying funding
  • Support with writing funding bids
  • Support to engage and participate in networks and partnerships.

To access development support, or for more information please contact: Helen Trueman, tel: 0121 525 1127 or e-mail: helen@scvo.info