Sandwell Council of Voluntary Organisations - SCVO. Supporting the Growth of Community Action in Sandwell.

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 new group is different and our approach is therefore tailored around the needs that the group present and the questions that they bring. Our staff are on hand to support new groups in the following areas:-

• How to decide the best ‘legal’ structure for the group? Whether to become a formalised (“constituted”) group, an informal (“unconstituted”) group, or even a Company Limited by Guarantee. We will talk the group through the pros and cons of each model, explain the process each will entail, and try to de-mystify some of the jargon along the way.
• How to develop a governing document, if the group chooses to become formalised? We can support the group in developing a suitable governing document, such as a constitution, to suit their structure and their needs.
• How to get your Management Committee off the ground? We can advise organisations in the process of initiating and organising a management committee to understand their role and to become effective in leading the organisation.
• How to link in with other local organisations? It’s important to understand what other groups are providing services to the community in the local area, and SCVO can support groups in making links with other organisations to create possibilities for joint working and learning.
• How to sustain our group over the long-term? SCVO’s range of services support many different aspects of a group’s development over time. We can also signpost groups to other VCS or statutory agencies that may be of benefit to them.