Strategic reflection

An NHS initiative that has helped community groups in Cheshire East to raise awareness of cancer has won a prestigious health award

The seasons are changing, and so is the public sector

By Kate Little CEO CVS Cheshire East

Yes, it is that time again; numerous grant funds are opening up! What follows is our guidance on how to go about responding to this specific fund – what to include and the pitfalls to avoid.  

Many of you reading this may well be experienced in writing funding bids – but even the most experienced can overlook something. We are not setting out to patronise anyone. Instead, we are coming from a position of offering advice and support.  

The Small Charities Advisory Panel (SCAP) has announced the appointment of five new members, ensuring a diverse and representative group of small charities will continue to advocate for the needs of the sector. The panel, which is led by NCVO, exists to strengthen the voice of small charities in policy and decision-making.

Walking a tightrope: Exploring the conditions for effective local voluntary and community sector infrastructure

Summary from NAVCA

January 2025

Introduction

What are the conditions that allow local VCSE infrastructure organisations [LIOs] to thrive and deliver for stakeholders?

NAVCA commissioned a research project to answer the question:

Christmas, for me, is always a time for looking back and taking stock, and with the New Year comes a chance for looking to the future. I thought it would be an opportune time to reflect on my first seven months in the voluntary and community sector and what I’ve learned.

What role can the voluntary sector play in putting things back together again?

I don’t think you would find anyone who would disagree that food is vitally important to our health and wellbeing: not only do we need it to stay alive it also gives us pleasure, allows us to share and celebrate and connects us to our land, different cultures and to our neighbourhoods, friends and family.