NCVS e-bulletin -Thursday 21 August 2025

Welcome to this edition of the NCVS e-bulletin – your perfect excuse to put the kettle on and skip that email you’ve been putting off!

The NCVS team has been hard at work recently – writing fresh blogs, sharing inspiring case studies, and putting the final touches on our brand-new Impact Report (more on that at a later date, though). It’s been brilliant to see all of our work captured in one place! Of course, there’s also been a little time for summer holidays along the way.

Here’s what you’ll find in this edition:

• Exciting details about the new Match My Project from the East Midlands Combined County Authority
• Plenty of opportunities to get involved with causes that matter to you
• New blogs and insights from the NCVS team

…plus lots more sector news and updates

Happy reading!

Monday 8 September 2025, 12 noon to 2pm
West Bridgford (exact location TBC)

Local community organisations in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire are invited to the official launch of Match My Project (MMP), a free online platform that connects projects with suppliers offering donations, volunteering, resources, or other support.

The launch will feature a keynote from Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands, talks from senior council leaders, MMP representatives, and trial users, as well as informal networking with food and refreshments. Attendees can ask questions and register to join the platform.

Why join MMP?

• Gain recognition and support within your community
• Access supplier resources, job opportunities, and expertise
• Streamline project delivery and save time

Spaces are limited. Organisations may register up to two attendees.

This initiative is delivered in partnership by the East Midlands Combined County Authority, Derbyshire County Council, Derby City Council, Nottinghamshire County Council, and Nottingham City Council. For queries, contact procurement@eastmidlands-cca.gov.uk.

Welcome to the new Team Talk centre, your one-stop shop for all things tips, tricks, and resources. Here you'll find the latest from the team at NCVS.

There are plenty more blogs, think pieces and helpful resources on our website. 

Monday 13 October 2025, 9am to 4pm
Motorpoint Arena Nottingham | Free to attend

Sector Forward is our one-day conference to celebrate 150 years of NCVS, and more importantly, to come together as a sector to recharge, connect, and grow.

From inspirational speakers to practical workshops, a buzzing marketplace, prize draws, and goody bags – it’s a day designed by and for Nottingham’s VCSE sector.

Hurry, we're nearly full!

The deadline for applications is Wednesday 10 September 2025

The Department of Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) has announced the Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund, aimed at supporting projects that help digitally excluded people get online and build skills in using digital tools.

The deadline for applications is Friday 19 September 2025

The Charles Hayward Foundation funds projects that prevent people from entering the criminal justice system and support those already in contact with it to rebuild their lives. Funding for one to three years, with grants of £15,000–£25,000 per year, is available to UK-registered charities with annual income between £350,000 and £4,000,000.

This fund is open to applications throughout 2025 and 2026, panel meetings will meet every month to review applications

Public Health Small Grants funding of up to £1,000 is available for community groups. organisations and volunteers who work in Nottingham City to improve the health and wellbeing of local communities.

They will prioritise initiatives that aim to reduce unjust and preventable health disparities for residents of Nottingham City.

We're regularly updating the funding news on our website, so click the button below and find the fund for you!

Tuesday 2 September 2025, 10am to 12 noon
Online via Zoom (BYOB – Bring Your Own Biscuits!)

The Leaders of Volunteers Network (LoVN) is back online this September – and this one’s all about creative ways to recruit volunteers (without losing your mind or your evenings).

Expect a lively session packed with ideas, practical planning tools, and a bit of a challenge from our resident LoVN host, Dave Thomas. If you support volunteers in any way, whether that’s your whole job or just part of it, you’ll come away with something useful (and maybe even fun).

'I always come away buzzing with ideas and suggestions from LoVN members.' - Dave, NCVS

Join our friendly, informal online network for anyone involved in managing or supporting volunteers. It’s a great space to:

• Share ideas and learn from others
• Ask questions about real challenges
• Connect with people who understand the sector

Active travel social prescribing connects people to walking, cycling, and wheeling activities to improve health and wellbeing, often via referral from healthcare professionals.

The 'Travel Well' project operates in Nottingham neighborhoods, enabling referrals to activities like cycle training, bike repairs, and guided walks. NCVS works with partners, including Nottingham City Council and local organisations, to deliver this support.

Two Care Coordinators help manage referrals and ensure access to these services, promoting active travel as a way to enhance mental and physical health.

The Practice Development Unit (PDU) offers a unique opportunity for professionals and volunteers from all sectors in Nottingham and beyond, who work with people facing Severe and Multiple Disadvantage (SMD), to connect, learn collaboratively and share good practice. SMD is generally understood as a combination of homelessness, substance use, mental ill health, domestic sexual violence and abuse, and contact with the criminal justice system. People’s experiences are often shaped by histories of trauma, poverty, stigma and abuse.

See our information pack to find out more about the free PDU learning offer.

To discover new events, training and resources, sign up for the PDU bulletin.

Any queries, please contact the team at pdu@nottinghamcvs.co.uk.

Our full Training and Development programme is available to view on our website. All courses take place online via Zoom.

We have new sessions and new dates for 2025/2026. Book now.

Here’s what’s on offer:

• Core training – Now free*!
  Expert-led sessions covering essential skills for your organisation. You've said, we've listened, introducing brand new training to support your funding needs.
  
  
• Meet the... Series
  Join us for this new series where sector leaders share insights on the topics that matter most to Nottingham’s voluntary sector.
  
  
• PDU Training
  Supporting those working with people experiencing Severe and Multiple Disadvantage (SMD) with specialist insights and practical approaches.
  
  
• Social Enterprise Accelerator Programme (with NTU)
  Providing hands-on support for those starting or growing a social enterprise.

Check out upcoming sessions and book your place today!

* Please be aware of our Terms and Conditions and Cancellation Policy.

Wednesday 3 September 2025, 10am to 12 noon
Online via Zoom

Even though you know your volunteers make a difference, it can be hard to prove it.

Join Dave Thomas for this practical online session exploring how to measure the real impact of your volunteer programme - from planning what to track, to collecting and using data that shows the value volunteers bring to your organisation, your community, and themselves.

Perfect for experienced Leaders of Volunteers who want to feel more confident about demonstrating impact and making the case for volunteering.

Tuesday 30 September 2025, 6pm to 8pm
Online via Zoom

Being a trustee might feel overwhelming - but it doesn’t have to be.

This online session covers the key information all trustees need, from understanding what a charity is to knowing your legal duties and responsibilities. You’ll also get guidance on handling conflicts of interest, personal liabilities, and where to find ongoing support.

Perfect for anyone new to a trustee, board, or committee role, or anyone who wants a refresher on the basics.

Delivered by David Saunders, Group Development Officer (Training) at NCVS, who brings over 15 years’ experience supporting and training VCSE organisations.

Thursday 18 September 2025, 10.30am to 11.30am
Online via Zoom

Looking to boost your charity’s income through trusts and foundations?

Join fundraising consultant Suzie Rees for a friendly, practical session designed especially for small organisations. Suzie will guide you through the steps to build a successful trust fundraising programme, even if you’re short on time or new to the process.

You’ll also hear about her Trust Fundraising in a Box toolkit, packed with templates and guidance to help you get started.

Bring your questions and get ready to unlock new funding opportunities!

Tuesday 16 September 2025, 10am to 12 noon
Online via Microsoft Teams

People experiencing Severe and Multiple Disadvantage (SMD), such as homelessness, substance use, poor mental health, and more, are much more likely to be neurodivergent. But many go undiagnosed, and their needs can be misunderstood or missed entirely.

In this session, Amelia Draper and Jeremy Garner from Changing Futures Nottingham will help you understand what neurodivergence really means, why it’s so common in this group, and how you can work more effectively and compassionately with people facing these challenges.

You’ll explore real-life case studies, learn about the impact of executive functioning difficulties, and leave with practical, trauma-informed ways to adapt your approach - no diagnosis required.

Ideal for anyone supporting people experiencing SMD who wants to create more inclusive and person-centred support

Wednesday 17 September 2025, 10am to 11.30am
Online via Microsoft Teams

For people facing Severe and Multiple Disadvantage (SMD), employment can feel out of reach - but building it into support services can be transformative.

Join Framework to explore insights from nearly a decade of research, plus their It Pays to Work programme, which embeds employability in supported housing. Hear about the pilot, early outcomes, and why employment must be part of the SMD system.

Perfect for practitioners, policymakers, and anyone with lived experience who wants to see how meaningful work can drive change.

If you are a VCSE organisation in Nottingham City or a VCSE organisation recruiting to a job role which covers the Nottingham City area, you can submit a job advert for our website. Adverts remain on our website until the closing date. We feature new adverts once in the e-bulletin, where possible, depending on the volume of new adverts received.

There are lots more job listings on our website. You can view all the job vacancies available by clicking on the 'More Vacancies' button at the bottom of this section.

Open until Tuesday 26 August 2025, 12 noon to 5pm
Broadway Gallery, 17 Heathcoat Street, NG1 3AL

A new exhibition in Nottingham is putting creativity and individuality in the spotlight. My Art, My Way, created by participants of the Get Creative project, will be on display at Broadway Gallery, and everyone is welcome to visit.

Get Creative supports artists who are learning disabled, living with mental health issues, or receiving other types of health care in the community. Weekly sessions provide a supportive, pop-up studio where participants can experiment, share ideas and build their skills.

This latest exhibition marks a change from the group’s previous collaborative shows. Instead, My Art, My Way celebrates the distinctive style of each artist, with the exhibition curated by the group themselves. Visitors can expect a rich and varied collection of work that highlights the power of art to express human difference and individuality.

More event listings on our website

Head over to the dedicated 'External Events and Training' page on our website to view more events and training opportunities from Nottingham's Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector.

If you would like to submit an event to feature on this page, please fill in our online event submission form. Events will be approved for publication on the NCVS website at our discretion, taking into account our aims and mission.

Equation is running two face-to-face training sessions this September to help workers and volunteers better understand and respond to domestic abuse.

Recognising and Responding to Perpetrators of Domestic Abuse
Thursday 18 September, 9.30am to 4.30pm
Are you looking to understand why perpetrators may use abusive behaviours? Want to build confidence in engaging safely and effectively? This full-day course will give you a toolkit of knowledge and strategies you can apply in your workplace and everyday life.
Find out more and book here

Introduction to Domestic Abuse
Thursday 18 September, 9.30am to 12.30pm
Aimed at workers and volunteers who aren’t in support roles but may come into contact with people experiencing or recovering from domestic abuse. This includes reception staff, admin workers, and anyone in a public-facing role. Learn the basics and build awareness in just 3 hours.
Find out more and book here

There are some free, in-person ESOL classes coming up in Nottingham City Centre for people with lower levels of English (A2). They’re open to refugees, asylum seekers, and anyone in Nottingham who would benefit from extra support with English.

The classes will be taught by trainee teachers, so there’s no cost at all, and learners of any nationality are welcome.

When and where:

• Until Friday 29 August, 10am to 12.15pm
• Nottingham Girls’ High School, 9 Arboretum Street, NG1 4JB
• Sixth Form Classroom S1 (first floor)

If you know someone who’d like to join, please ask them to email info@elteach.co.uk so the team can plan for numbers.

Nominations will close at midnight on Sunday 31 August 2025

The countdown is on. With just under two weeks to go until nominations close, now is the time to make your submission for the 2025 Black Achievers Awards – one of the most prestigious celebrations of Black excellence in the UK.

Two award categories have already closed due to high demand, but several key categories are still open – and we want to hear from you. You can still submit nominations in the following categories:

• Health and Social Care
• Aspiring Stars
• Sports
• Lifetime Community Contributor
• Most Transformed Life

Whether you’re nominating someone who inspires you or putting yourself forward for your achievements, this is your chance to be recognised and celebrated.

This year’s ceremony will be hosted by none other than Anton Leon, with a stellar line-up of entertainment, including a performance from our very own legend, Rudi Lickwood.

Tickets are available now via the button below, or you can email theblackachieversaward@gmail.com to book your table directly. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of an unforgettable evening honouring the changemakers in our communities.

Nominate now before it’s too late.

The Warm Welcome Campaign, in partnership with Turn2us, helps communities maximise income and create spaces where everyone can feel connected and supported.

What is a Warm Welcome Space?

• A free, safe, and friendly place where people can meet, belong, and boost wellbeing.
• Spaces can be big or small, what matters is being welcoming.

When you sign up, you’ll get:

• A weekly newsletter with resources and funding opportunities
• A practical Handbook to help you run your space
• Communications toolkits to spread the word
• Invitations to events, including an annual celebration
• Connections with other Warm Welcome Spaces
• Opportunities to link with media and partners

Nottingham City’s Public Health team is inviting local parents and caregivers of children aged 0–19 to join a new Parent/Caregiver Panel.

The panel will help shape the city’s Best Start Strategy and 0–19 services, ensuring they meet the needs of children and families. Members will have the chance to make a real difference, share their knowledge, meet new people, and access training, skills development, and up-to-date health information. References for future opportunities will also be available.

If you live in Nottingham and want to use your voice to improve services for families, find out more and register your interest via the button below or email handwcommunitychampions@nottinghamcity.gov.uk.

The Notts500 is calling on men across Nottinghamshire to stand against violence towards women and girls. This movement aims to build a network of male allies who will challenge harmful behaviours, champion positive change, and make our communities safer.

Find out more at an Introductory Session on Monday 8 September, 6pm to 630pm, reserve your place.

For more information, contact tasarla.larner@junowomensaid.org.uk.

Complete the survey before Friday 19 September 2025

Are you:

• A person with a learning disability?
• A carer or family member?
• A service provider?

Your voice matters.

Nottingham City Council, Nottinghamshire County Council, and Nottingham’s Integrated Care System want to hear from you. They’re running surveys as part of the Learning Disability Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA) – a local project that will help shape better services for people with learning disabilities.

By sharing your views, you can help:

• Identify health and wellbeing needs
• Improve access to support and services
• Make life better for individuals, families, and carers

Fill out the survey online using the button below, or request a paper copy.

For more information or help, email SCandMD@nottinghamcity.gov.uk

Tenant Involvement, on behalf of Nottingham City Council Housing Services, is developing a new Tenant Engagement and Influence Strategy, and they’d love to hear from local groups and organisations.

The strategy will set out how Housing Services works with tenants and communities in the future. Groups and organisations that support residents have an important role to play, so your insight and experience are really valuable.

By completing a short survey, you can help shape the way services are delivered, making sure that tenants feel listened to and supported. Your feedback will also help strengthen how Housing Services works in partnership with the wider community.

General VCSE sector resources

• The Lottery Community Fund annual report and accounts - The National Lottery Community Fund (NLCF) has reported a significant increase in its grantmaking, with an additional £80 million allocated in the past year, reflecting a strategic move to bolster support for community initiatives across the UK. Read more in their report.
  
  
• Fundraising during challenging times - Are you prepared to tackle obstacles like economic uncertainty, funding difficulties, or climate-related disruptions? Sign up now and read Blackbaud's latest report.

The Nottingham Community and Voluntary Service (NCVS) e-bulletin will be back in a fortnight. The deadline for contributions and comments is Monday 1 September 2025. Email communications@nottinghamcvs.co.uk

Did you know we keep an archive of past NCVS e-bulletins? View the archive here.

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