Diploma in Social Integration & Enterprise for Community Development WorkerUniversity College Cork is now seeking applications for the Diploma in Social Integration & Enterprise for Community Development Workers by distance learning, which recommences in October. This programme will be of interest to those who:
- Want to improve their community development practice, with particular emphasis on social enterprises.
- Want a fully accredited university qualification
- Find it difficult to attend traditional classes due to work, family commitments etc.
- Are looking for a programme that provides progression to a degree and/or Masters programme
The programme is delivered over 1 or 2 years using specially written text-based modules with monthly interactive lectures. Lectures are held at weekends between October and March with final assessment in May.
For further information and application forms please contact:
Bridget Carroll, Centre for Co-operative Studies, O’Rahilly Building, UCC. Tel: 4902070 or email: b.carroll@ucc.ie
Closing dates for applications: Friday, 29th August 2008.
View UCC Diploma
Bridget Carroll - 2nd July |  |
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NEF challenges efficiency agendaA New Economics Foundation briefing publication challenges Britain’s public sector efficiency drive agenda which state:
1. Government intervention is justified only where there is market failure.
2. Public services are best delivered through market style competition and mimicking private sector incentives.
3. Efficiency gains should be identified and imposed from the centre.
4. T he ‘value for money’ model ensures that efficiency and effectiveness are both pursued.
NEF counters each of these points respectively
1. This fails to take account of what most people value in the public sphere and sets up a market model rather than one that, like all government activities, is affected by concerns of equity and social good.
2. This denies and undermines the public sector ethos, and encourages a focus on reducing short-term costs.
3. When added to the market model, this greatly increases the focus on reducing short-term costs at the expense of the wider public benefit.
4. The easily measured financial indicators of efficiency are dominating the harder-to-measure indicators of effectiveness – particularly those of wider social and environmental benefits that are essential to good local services.
Download a copy of the full report from our documents section HERE
For further information on the New Economic Foundation go to the NEF Website
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Improving the business environment for Europe's small companiesTo fully unlock SMEs potential for growth, innovation and job creation, the European Commission has proposed the preparation of a Small Business Act for Europe.
Commissioner Verheugen will present the Small Business Act for Europe (SBA) which will set out principles and concrete measures to improve the framework conditions for European Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs), while taking full account of their diversity.
The European Commission has been implementing a modern policy to improve the business environment for Europe's small business by applying the “Think Small First” principle. While the policy has already produced significant improvements in creating a business environment which is friendly to Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs), it has also identified remaining obstacles especially in the area of regulatory burden.
As part of the Community Lisbon programme for Growth and Jobs 2008-2010, the European Commission was asked to prepare a Small Business Act that puts SMEs and entrepreneurship irreversibly at the heart of policy making.
An announcement on the Small Business Act is expected on the 25th June 2008. For further information go to the 'Enterprise & Industry' section of the EUROPA website.
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European Commission takes next step in CAP SimplificationThe European Commission has taken a further step in the ongoing process of simplifying the Common Agricultural Policy: the elimination of the vast majority of licence obligations for imports and exports in the agricultural sector and the rationalisation of related rules. The changes will result in clear and simple rules and a substantial reduction in administrative burdens for both operators and national administrations. Following the adoption of the Single CMO last year by the Council, the Commission has now decided to substantially reduce the number of products that are subject to an import or export licence. The rules for products that will remain subject to a licensing obligation have been harmonised and simplified, which renders them more accessible and easier to work with. For further information go to the EUROPA website. | |
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SEN ConferenceSocial Economy Network NI is hosting its annual conference on Monday June 9th 2008. The theme of the conference is Engage, Partner, Deliver and will include contributions from a range of speakers including, Tim Campbell. Quentin Oliver and Anne Graham SEN Director amongst others.
For further information go to the SEN Website
View Conference Pack & Invite |  |
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RISE Conference, May 29th 2008RISE Conference, May 29th 2008
Networking & Sustainability for the Third Sector in Ireland
Social Economy Solutions is pleased to invite you to the RISE conference – a unique cross-border event which brings together key stakeholders from the community and public sector to present, network and discuss on the developmental agenda for community and social enterprise organisations in Ireland, North and South.
RISE conference participants will hear leading speakers in the field of community and social enterprise development from Ireland; Northern Ireland and Britain. The conference will address policy matters, financial sustainability and networking for growth.
The RISE cross-border conference is a forum for debate on the challenges facing the sector and will provide delegates with an opportunity to learn from the experiences of others, to share their own knowledge with others from the community sector, government and development support organisations.
The RISE conference keynote speakers include;
Denis Leamy The Chief Executive Officer at Pobal (www.pobal.ie). Pobal is a not-for-profit company with charitable status that manages programmes on behalf of the Irish Government and The EU. Pobal support partnership approaches to decision-making in order to engage communities in the development process at local level, and we promote co-ordination between communities, State agencies and other stakeholders. We encourage the piloting of new initiatives and are committed to contributing to policy development through the lessons learnt from the programmes we manage.
James Money-Kyrle The Chief Executive Officer at The Plunkett Foundation (www.plunkett.co.uk). The Plunkett Foundation is an educational charity, which supports the development of rural group enterprise world-wide. The Foundation draws on 80 years' practical experience of working with partners from the private sector to promote and implement economic self-help solutions to rural problems.
Graham Collins, The Sustainable Funding Project at NCVO (www.ncvo-vol.org.uk). The National Council for Voluntary Organisations is an advocacy and lobbying organisation and represents the views of its members, and the wider voluntary sector to government, the European Union and other bodies. NCVO is at the leading edge of research into, and analysis of, the voluntary sector. NCVO campaigns on generic issues affecting the whole of the voluntary sector such as the role of the voluntary organisations in public service delivery and the future of local government.
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720,000 living below the poverty lineThe annual Socio-Economic Review for 2008, published by CORI Justice, shows that the number of people at risk of poverty has fallen by 120,000 since 2001. However, almost three quarters of a million people still live in households with incomes below the poverty line.
In its 233 page review, entitled Planning for Progress and Fairness, CORI Justice also shows that thirty per cent of all households at risk of poverty are headed by a person with a job - these are the 'working poor' – a new phenomenon that should be addressed urgently.
For further information go to CORI |  |
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Esmée Fairbairn New Funding ApproachEsmée Fairbairn Foundation has launched a new funding approach.
The majority of it's funding will now be channelled through the Main Fund which will be an open, less prescriptive way of working, through which we will listen to ideas. Esmée Fairbairn expect to fund a wider range of work than before, although it's core interests remain in the fields of culture, education, environment and social development.
Click here for, Main Fund Guidance
As part of it's new funding approach Esmée Fairbairn is also running a number of smaller, more focused funding strands. These will be in areas where it believes a more direct intervention may have a greater impact. The first three will be: Biodiversity, Museum and Heritage Collections, and New Approaches to Learning. Further funding strands are to be launched later in the year.
Click here for, Funding Strands Guidance
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UnLtd IdeasUnLtd – The Foundation for Social Entrepreneurs are looking for individuals to come forward with their ideas for projects which will make a positive impact in their community. Up to £5000 is available per project. Successful applicants will also receive a tailored package of development support to turn their ideas into a reality. UnLtd are looking for projects that will make a difference to any target group, community, town, village etc. Projects could address education, learning, young people, elderly – all ideas are sought. Contact Ciara Brennan at UnLtd on T: 028 9024 4007, E: ciarabrennan@unltd.org.uk or click www.unltd.org.uk.
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Strabane District Council TrainingStrabane District Council in conjunction with NICVA is running a series of life skills courses. These are as follows:
Leadership Skills - 6 Feb. 10am - 1pm
Project Planning - 11 Feb. 10am - 1.30pm
Recruitment & Selection - 18th Feb. 10am - 4pm
Media Skills (2 half day sessions)
* Writing effective Press Releases - 3 Mar 10am - 1.30pm
* Confident Television Interviews - 4 Mar 10am - 1.00pm
Presentation Skills 10 Mar. 10am - 4pm
Committee & Trustees Responsibilities - 12 mar 11.00am - 4pm
For further information, contact Claire Mullen, Acting Community Support Officer Tel. 028 7138 2204 ext 293
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Strabane District Council - Grant AidGrant Aid Application Programmes are currently open for a range of grants.
* Art & Cultural Grant Aid
* Community Relations Grant Aid
* Community Support Grants
Please contact Gillian Turner on 028 7138 2204 or email - gturner@strabanedc.com
The closing date for applications is 4.00pm on Monday 31st March 2008.
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Lobbying across the BorderNorth South Rural Voice is delivering cross border lobbying training in various venues across the border region over the coming months. Each session is designed to give participants an introduction on how to lobby on a cross border basis. Participants can then use this information to lobby for changes in practices and policies, which affect their daily lives in the border region.
Find out more at:
www.nsrv.info/lobbying-training or contact NSRV on 00353 42 9690806 |
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International Women's Health Conference - 29 & 30 MayDerry Well Woman is proud to announce that it will be hosting an International Women's Health Conference from 29th May - 30th May. This event is organised on behalf of the Cross Border Women's Health Network and will be held in the Everglades Hotel, Derry.
Further information available at - www.derrywellwoman.org
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Comic Relief Grant SchemeComic Relief operates a number of grant schemes through its Red Nose Days funding programme and has announced that the next application deadline for grants over £5,000 is 29 February 2008.
Grants are available through six programme areas:
* Young People
* Mental Health
* Domestic Violence
* Older People
* Refugees & Asylun Seekers
* Disadvantaged Communities
The grants are open to registered charities and constituted Community & Voluntary groups and grants are made for between one and three years. Although there is no maximum grant size Comic Relief is likely to make grants of between £15,000 and £40,000 per year. For more information visit -
www.comicrelief.com |
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CFNI Community Arts - Small GrantsCommunity Foundation Northern Ireland is offering small grants ranging from £500to £1,000 for community arts projects.
There are no set deadlines - applications will be considered on a rolling basis. Please note - Grant applications should be made at least two months before the project start date. Contact Community Foundation NI on 028 9024 5927 or email - skillen@communityfoundationni.org
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'Funders R Us' RoadshowStrabane & District Community Network is hosting 'Funders R Us' Roadshow on Thursday 28th February 2008 4.00pm - 8.00pm in Floyds Restaurant, Ballymagorry. This will provide an opportunity to meet the funders face to face and get all the information on current funding available.There will be presentations, Q & A sessions and demos on the day. A hot buffet will be served.
To confirm your place at this event please contact Brenda Devlin on 028 8166 2690 or email fundingsupport@btconnect.com by indicating how many of your group will be attending.
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How to Write and Cost a Tender - Tuesday 4th March 2008The Rural Initiative for the Social Economy (RISE) has organised a procurement training day on writing and costing a tender on Tuesday 4th March 2008 from 10.00am – 4.30pm in the Committee Room in WELB Library, Omagh. This training will be delivered by Michelle Lestas of Lestas Consulting.
This training session will cover the style and presentation of a tender, relevant documents to include, pricing structure, apportionment etc.
If you would like to find out more about this training, please contact Rita McGarvey, RISE Development Advisor on 028 7137 1733 or email rita@rise.ie
Please note places are limited for this training.
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Cross Border Mobility WebsiteThis mobility website acts as a 'one-stop shop' for people who communte across the border in detailing entitlements, rights etc for these people in their unique status on the island of Ireland.
Information relevant to those who commute across the border is tagged by category (helath, taxation etc), life events (studying, moving etc), target group (frontier workers, parents etc) - making the process of finding information as easy as possible.
Hundreds of people cross the border regularly for all types of reasons, including visiting, living and working between the jurisdications, studying, etc.
A frontier worker is defined as someone who lives on one side of the border but communtes daily and weekly to their place of work on the other side of the border.
The cross border mobility website is the central access point for all cross border mobility information on the island of Ireland.
For more infromation, log on to:
www.crossbordermobility/info/index.htm
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IIoyds TSB FoundationIloyds TSB Foundation has funding available under their Standard Grant Programme. The Foundation has two main target areas to which it seeks to allocate funds:
Social and Community Needs and Education and Training
Social and Community Needs – A wide range of activities are supported and the following are meant as a guide only:
Community Services
Advice Services
People with special needs
Promotion of Health
Civic Responsibility
Cultural Enrichment
Education and Training – To enhance educational opportunities for disadvantaged people and those with special needs. The following are meant as a guide only:
Towards Employment
Life Skills
Early Years
See their web site for more details. www.lloydstsbfoundationni.org For more information contact Sinead Tierney on 028 9038 2864.
The deadline for applications is the second Fridays of April, July & October. The maximum grant available is £10,000. There is a 10 week turnaround period for the assessment of applications.
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Northern Bank Community GrantsThe Northern Bank Community Grant scheme support local community and voluntary group work.
Grants between £500 and £5,000 are available. The closing date for applications is no later than 12 noon on Friday 29th February 2008.
Groups which are actively engaged in their local community in any one of the following areas may apply for a grant:
Knowledge - support for essential skills, in particular numeracy, financial capability and enterrpise skills
Culture - Activities that enable the local communiy to learn or acquire new skills through the arts, for example community drama workshops, activities that use the arts to explore. For example, music or dance classesfor all age groups in the community.
Sport - We are seeking to support recreational sports activitiy that encourage participants to try new acitivities, learn new skills and improvement upon existing sporting achievements
Only one grant per group may be awarded in any two year period.
For further infromation, log on to www.northernbank.co.uk
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Social Enterprise Ideas going to wasteSeven out of ten people are sitting on an unrealised idea or business venture, according to a new report.
A survey for the National Endowment for Science, Technology and the Arts (NESTA), found that 80% of people believe they’ve had an idea that would have a ‘positive impact on everybody’s lives’.
However, 72% of these ideas will never bear fruit as a result of worries such as lack of funding or fear of failure, the report claimed.
Lack of available funding was the most common cause for not following through on an idea with 36% of respondents citing this reason. This was followed by lack of confidence or fear of ridicule (31%) and not knowing where to start (25%).
More than half of those surveyed said they would be motivated to act on their ideas if they had financial backing or reward.
The research was conducted in conjunction with NESTA’s Big Green Challenge, a competition to encourage people to tackle climate change.
In total, £1m will be rewarded during the competition. Ten finalists will each receive £20,000, mentoring and support to put their ideas into practice. The overall winner will win the remainder of the prize fund.
Jonathan Kestenbaum, NESTA chief executive, said:
“The findings suggest that many of the potentially great ideas out there that could have a real impact on our big social problems are going to waste.
“The New Year offers an opportunity to bring these ideas to the surface. By providing a financial incentive and expert support, we hope to encourage communities to come together to find new ways to tackle climate change.”
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The Social Entrepreneur: Making Communities WorkSocial entrepreneur Andrew Mawson OBE has published The Social Entrepreneur: Making Communities Work, showcasing entrepreneurial ways of tackling social problems. Mawson uses his own experience in Bromley-by-Bow in the east end of London to demonstrate the ways in which social entrepreneurship can improve social environments. He explains how the Bromley-by-Bow Centre has encouraged literacy, housing, business, health, welfare and enterprise in the area to flourish.
For a review of the book go to Joe Public . To order a copy go to Amazon
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Ireland's Co-operative SectorForfás has recently published a profile of the co-operative enterprise sector in Ireland and internationally. The report, Ireland’s Co-operative Sector, forms part of a review of the legislative and organisational framework for co-operatives in Ireland being undertaken by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment.
The report identifies some of the key challenges and opportunities for Irish co-operatives for the future. Speaking at the launch of the report (December 2007), the Minister for Trade and Commerce, Mr John McGuinness, TD commented, “The co-operative movement has played an important role in key areas of economic and social development in Ireland to date, most notably in the development of the agricultural sector and the credit union movement. Internationally, co-operatives operate very successfully in a wide range of sectors including banking, insurance, retailing and agriculture. International evidence suggests that there is further potential for the development of the co-operative approach in Ireland based on an up-to-date and supportive regulatory framework”.
View Ireland's Cooperative Sector
The Department of Enterprise, Trade and - 9th January |  |
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NESTA Rural InnovationNESTA (National Endowment for Science, Technology and the Arts) has published new research which has identified rural innovation as one of the areas in need of new attention by policy makers. “The growth of innovation in rural areas requires greater attention from all levels of government, but especially from sub-national regional agencies and the devolved administrations. It is critical that policymakers reflect positive attitudes towards the broad topic of innovation in peripheral regions not least by recognising the growing prospects of a new rural economy fuelled by innovation.”
View Rural Innovation
Mahroum, Atterton, Ward, Williams, Naylo - 9th January |  |
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Groundwork NI Regeneration Resource CentreGroundwork NI has recently launched their Regeneration Resource Centre in Belfast. A programme of workshops, training and activities is planned over the next 6 months to help people involved in regeneration, creating sustainable communities and good relations develop their skills. The programme will have something to interest you whether it's a design workshop to help you practically plan your project or training in facilitative leadership.
The events below will be held at the Groundwork office, 63-75 Duncairn Gardens, Belfast. Tel. 028 9074 9494.
24th January 2008 - Environmental Entrepreneurs 10.00 - 13.00
in partnership with Work West.
30th January 2008 - Regeneration of Dublin 11.00 - 15.00
Experiences from Fatima Mansions Community and Dublin Inner City Partnership.
1st February 2008 - Successfully Evaluating Programmes and Projects
Full Day in partnership with the Centre for Local Economic Strategies. A course design to provide an introduction to evaluation. (This event may incur a charge).
12th February 2008 - Using Renewable Energy in your Local Community 10.00 - 13.00
in partnership with Action Renewables introductory sessions exploring what you can do to reduce your energy consumption and your energy bills!
14th February 2008 - Peacebuilding in your Local Community 10.00 - 13.00
The Communuity Foundation for NI presents its community-based guide to peacebuilding. The handbook is aimed at community practitioners to aid and assist their practical peacebuilding work in local communities.
For information on all events or to register your place contact the Regeneration Resource Centre Development Officer on 028 9074 9494.
www.groundworkni.org.uk
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Comic Relief - Funding OpportunitiesComic Relief's current funding programme cover a range of areas of need. Funding is currently available under:
* Young people with mental health problems
* Young people with alcohol problems
* Mental Health
* Older People
Grants of £5,000 and over can be applied for. The next closing date for applications is Friday 29th February 2008. For further information, log on to www.comicrelief.com
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Big Lottery Fund (NI) - Breathing SpacesAny voluntary or community sector organisation with experience of working the natural environment or working in partnership with an organisation with this experience can apply for a lottery funded Breathing Places grant.
The closing date for phase 3 applications is Friday 18th January 2008.For further information log on to www.lotteryfunding.org.uk/nireland
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Lloyds TSB Foundation for NI - GrantsThe Foundation allocates its funds in support of the Northern Ireland Community to enable people, primarily those in need, to be active members of society and to improve their quality of life.
An average grant of £5,000 is available to organisations. The deadline for quarterly grant applications is the second Friday in January, April, July and October.
The next deadline for applications is Friday 11th January 2008.
For further information telephone 028 9038 2864 or log on to www.lloydstsbfoundationni.org
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Conference on Rural Excluded Men in Border RegionThis event will take place on Thursday 14th February 2008 in the Slieve Russell Hotel, Ballyconnell, County Cavan from 10.00am to 2.00pm followed by lunch. This conference will be hosted by the ICBAN Social Inclusion Working Group and is free of charge.
Expressions of interest can be made to: ecoveney@cavancoco.ie or tel. 049 437 8581. Furtehr infromation will be available in the New Year. |
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Guidance on Organisational ReservesNew guidance on organisational reserves has been drawn up by the Department of Finance and Personnel. The guidance follows input from the Steering Group on Best Practice in Finance and Governance which includes Community Change, NICVA and the Volunteer Development Agency, and consultation with departments and the wider voluntary and community sector.
The steering group hopes that the guidance adequately represents what the public and a funder might expect to see in a well governed organisation.
The guidance highlights the importance of having an agreed reserves policy which justifies holding appropriate levels of financial reserves to protect against future uncertainties and which allows organisations to take advantage of change and opportunity. The guidance should help ensure that no voluntary or community organisation is penalised by funders for holding appropriate financial reserves.
Much of the detail in this document comes from guidance from the Charity Commission for England and Wales and may in the future be affected by the outworking of the new Charities legislation in Northern Ireland.
Although the guidance is expected to be applicable to all organisations in the voluntary and community sector in Northern Ireland, in itself it has no legal authority.
To assess the guidance visit www.nicva.org or contact Oonagh Kane on 028 9087 7777.
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European Fund for the Integration of Third Country NationalsCall for Applications
The Office of the Minister for Integration invites applications for funding under the European Fund for the Integration of Third Country Nationals, as part of the 'Solidarity and Management of Migration Flows' General Programme from the European Commission.
Applications are invited from community and voluntary / non government (including minority ethnic led) organisations based in the State and Area Based & Community Partnerships.
The closing date for applications is 5pm on Friday 25 January 2008.
An information meeting for prospective applicants has also been organised for 6th December 2007 in St Andrews Resource Centre, Pearse Street, Dublin 2 from 10:00 13:00.
http://www.activelink.ie/ce/active.php?id=2894
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Charity Commission for NINorthern Ireland is a step closer to having its own Charity Commission. The Charities Bill of Northern Ireland was introduced to the Assembly on 10th December 2007. The long awaited legislation which was originally intended to be enacted earlier this yearwill now proceed through the legislative process of the Assembly - a timetable should be announced shortly. It is believed that there is not much change to the Charities (NI) Order 2007 which was laid before the Westminister in January of this year.
The Charities Bill will:
* provide statutory definitions of 'charity' & 'charitable purpose'
* establish a Charity Commission for NI & a Charity Tribunal
* Create a Register of Charities for NI
* Introduce the Charitable Incorporated Organisation (a new form of charitable body)
* set out new rules with regard to fundraising and collections
For background to the reform of charities see NICVA's dedicated Charity Law Reform pages at www.nicva.org
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Cross Border Funding for Youth & Community GroupsCo-operation Ireland is a cross-border charity which supports and funds groups to meet on a cross-border basis for mutual benefit. Its Exchanges Programme has a small grants programme for cross-border projects that focus on mutual benefit, peace and reconciliation, and diversity.
Funding is available for fully constituted youth and community groups and projects must be cross community and cross border. Groups should have identified their partner groups before submitting an application and both groups must be involved in the development of the project and completion of the application form. Projects must involve cross border travel by both groups and facilitated workshops must be an integral part of all projects. The full criteria are available at www.cooperationireland.org/?q=whatwedo/exchanges.
There will be a funding meeting on 5 March 2008 for projects wishing to become involved in cross-border exchanges. The deadline for receipt of applications is Friday 15 February 2008.
Please email exchanges@cooperationireland.org or call 028 9089 1009 to discuss your proposals or to find out more.
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Boardmatch Ireland: 350 Board Volunteers AvailableBoardmatch Ireland is a web-based initiative to recruit people mainly from the business and professional sectors for voluntary sector Board or Management Committee positions.
Boardmatch now has nearly 500 registered candidates willing to volunteer their skill and expertise on a Board and 120 positions available on nonprofit Boards.
If your organisation is seeking to recruit new board or management committee members, or if you or the board of the organisation think that additional skills at the board table would be of benefit, this pool of potential board candidates may be of interest.
The free service is easy to use. At the website www.boardmatchireland.ie you register your organisation and seek a match from registered candidates for any board or management committee opportunities you have. After initial matching online, you then arrange to meet prospective board members for more extensive consideration. All decisions on shortlisting or recruiting new board members remain with your organisation.
For further information, please contact
Brian Sheehan - Director Boardmatch Ireland
35 Exchequer St. Dublin 2
t: 01 6715005
e: info@boardmatchireland.ie
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Overcoming the 5 Pitfalls of Volunteer ManagementWednesday 6th February 2008 - 9.30am to 4.30pm at NICVA offices.
Organisations and people working with volunteers may actually sabotage their volunteer programmes through their own actions and behaviours. This one day course will help you find out how to avoid these limiting behaviours which can only serve to weaken the value of volunteering, consider strategies to overcome these behaviours and build a stronger long term volunteer programme.
The Volunteer Development Agency is delighted to welcome Martin J. Cowling, one of Australia's leading consultants on not for profit and volunteer management, as the trainer for this course. |
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Rural Community Network Fact SheetsThe Rural Community Network has designed six facts sheets which will provide a practical resource for community development workers and facilitators, particularly those working with rural community groups. Every fact sheet contains information, activities and examples of good practice in an easily accessible style. Fact sheets include - forming a community group, community development and understanding procurement.
Download copies from www.ruralcommunitynetwork.org |
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IMMPACT
Social Economy Agency announces the IMMPACT Project.
The IMMPACT project is a new capacity building, training, mentoring and learning support programme for community and voluntary organisations in Northern Ireland. Led by the Social Economy Agency (NI), IMMPACT (Improving & Measuring Mission Performance And Community Transformation) will pilot new learning methodologies and provide high quality learning resources to help participating organisations to address the key issues and acquire the necessary skills and knowledge areas related to long term organisational sustainability. The project is a response to the rapidly changing grant funding, administrative and policy environments impacting on the Community & Voluntary sector in Northern Ireland. In particular, the project seeks to help participating organisations to reduce their dependency on grant income and to begin to explore sustainable funding approaches. The IMMPACT project is funded by the Modernisation Fund administered by the Department for Social Development for Northern Ireland.
The design of IMMPACT is based on the general approach developed by the Sustainable Funding Project (SFP) of the National Council for Voluntary Organisations in UK and will draw on the experience gained during the implementation of that project and access its electronic and published resources. IMMPACT is seen as a pilot project testing the SFP philosophy, methodologies and resources for the Northern Ireland context over a two year period.
The project will target both frontline Community and Voluntary Organisations and Infrastructure/Support organisations for the Community & Voluntary sector. For Infrastructure/Support organisations, it is intended that IMMPACT will improve their skills and knowledge resources to better assist their member/client organisations in their sustainable development.
IMMPACT recognises that organisations are at different stages on their journey towards sustainability. It will therefore provide and promote support to each organisation appropriate to its position on this ‘Journey of Change’ to help it get to the next stage. The project will seek to adopt a holistic approach to organisational sustainability while promoting in particular options for strategic planning, fund diversification, income strategies and outcomes management.
For further information contact Seamus Carlin (Project Manager)
mob +44 (0)79 1208 8700
tel +44 (0)28 9096 1115
fax +44 (0)28 9096 1110
eml seamus@socialeconomyagency.org
www immpact.co.uk
Social Economy Agency
45-47 Donegall Street
Belfast BT1 2FG |  |
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Marketing for Success
- Is your organisation marketing your products, services or facilities effectively?
- Are you communicating your vision, mission and values clearly and distinctively to your users/client group?
- Are you communicating your key purpose and goals to a range of stakeholders and partner organisations to maximise social and economic returns and encourage long-term sustainable development?
If the answer is NO, then this innovative and practical seminar is for you! ‘Marketing for Success in the Social Economy’ aims to give participants advice, tools and tricks to effective ly communicate, market and sell your products and services to a range of users/clients and encourage cooperation and partnership as a strategy for future sustainable development.
For further information and to register download the event flyer and booking form.
View Marketing for Success.doc |  |
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Pobal Request Expression of InterestPobal has announced a call for expression of interest applications for Community Halls, Community Media and Traveller Services projects.
The Community Services Programme supports community organisations and community enterprises to provide essential services to their communities which:-
- Alleviate disadvantage in those communities
- Promote social and economic development within the communities
- Provide employment for those most distant from the labour market
- Promote the sustainable and inclusive development of the communities
- Strengthen local ownership through participation in decision-making
Applications must be submitted through through a local Intermediary (Area Based Partnerships, Community Partnerships, LEADER companies, Udaras na Gaeltacha and Traveller CDPs).
For further information and to download the relevant guidelines and application form go to the POBAL website |  |
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New Support for Scottish Social EnterprisesMore businesses with a remit to aid disadvantaged groups will benefit from business support under an initiative brought forward today by Scottish Executive Finance Secretary John Swinney.
The Scottish Executive will make available additional economic development support to social enterprises to help increase skills in order to maximise income generation, secure investment in the business and provide more services for those who need them. Support will cover:
- Business, financial and investment readiness planning
- Staff development
- Board development/governance
- Market research and marketing
- Legal support
To hear more about the Scottish Executive's initiative to aid the development of the social economy go to SCOTTISH EXECUTIVE website |  |
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'A Charter for Rural Communities' - Carnegie UK TrustThis report is future focused and provides insights into the characteristics of rural communities fit to face the predicted and unexpected challenges ahead.
Contained within the report are 'ideas for action' - a wide range of partners have a role in the future well-being of rural communities from local authorities, regional development agencies, community planning partners, Third sector support organisations and of course, rural communities.
For a copy of the report, please log on to the Carnegie UK Trust web site www.carnegieuktrust.org.uk
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Community Bridges ProgrammeOn the 4th May 2007, the International Fund for Ireland launched its Community Bridges Programme with the annoucement of €13 million (£9 million) being made available to encourage community relations, reconciliation and cross border activities over the next 3 years.
The Community Bridges Programme was established by the International Fund for Ireland in 1996 to build on the community relations, reconciliation and cross border ethos of the fund, with an emphasis on helping communities in NI and the border counties to use innovative and ground breaking community projects to address issues of differences and division. The Community Relations Council manages the Community Bridges Programme on behalf of the fund.
Applications and expression of interest forms for funding from interested parties are now available from the Community Relations Council on 028 9022 7500 or email: info@communityrelations.org.uk
www.nicrc.org.uk |
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Recent DETI Survey of Social Economy Enterprises in NIThe main objective of the survey was to help increase understanding and raise awareness of the Social Economy Enterprises in NI.
The aim was to collect information on the size of a known group of Social Economy Enterprises in NI including date of establishment, employment, volunteers, products/services, turnover, profit, source of income, social goals and the main groups of people in NI helped by Social Economy Enterprises.
The report can be downloaded below or from the DETI Social Economy Branch website
View Social Economy Survey |
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O2 - Its Your Community'Its your community" exists to inspire us all to make a positive change to the communities in which we live. Awards should be for the benefit of the community, or to build community spirit.
Applications invited which make:
* a physical improvement that you can touch likely to make real, tangible results that you can see.
* demonstrates fresh, bold thinking, and is innovative enough to inspire others
Awards are between £100 - £1,000 and their are four categories:
* Community Places
* Community Pride
* Community People
* Community Landscape
Individuals who demonstrate involvement with the community and unconstituted groups are also eligible to apply. See full details of criteria, exemptions, application process and previous awardees from Northern Ireland at http://www.itsyourcommunity.co.uk
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Measuring Social ValueA new step-by-step guide to calculating social returns on investment has been launched by think tank the New Economics Foundation.
The guide, 'Measuring real value: A DIY guide to Social Return on Investment', is intended to allow third sector organisations to demonstrate and quantify their wider social value. Lisa Sanfilippo, the New Economics Foundation's head of measurement and evaluation said, that by working through the process of quantifying social returns would also help organisations to better identify failings and focus minds on "for whom and with whom" they create value.
The guide draws on New Economics Foundation's experience of piloting SROI (social return on investment) measurements with a range of social enterprises in collaboration with the Adventure Capital Fund and Social Firms UK. It also includes detailed worked example and case studies of two social enterprises that employ disabled people.
View NEF Measuring Real Value |  |
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Northern Bank Funding for Community & Voluntary OrganisationsThe Northern Bank has launched the second round of its Community Grants programme which distributes £100,000 for local community activity across Northern Ireland.
Are you involved in a local sports project, cultural organisation or a community programme which will enhance the knowledge or skills of your local community?
If so, Northern Bank would like to give you the opportunity to make your ideas a reality through its new Community Grants Programme.
You can apply if you have charitable status, not-for-profit, voluntary and community organisations involved in one of these 3 areas:
1. Knowledge
2. Culture
3. Sport
Eligible organisations can apply for a grant of £500 to £5,000.
For further information visit their web site www.northernbank.co.uk or call your local branch. |
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RISE Recruitment 2007/08Social Economy Solutions in its continuation of the Rural Initiative for the Social Economy is looking to identify emerging and existing social enterprises that would like to take part in the programme for the period of 2007/June 2008.
The RISE project has as its aim,
- To promote and support the sustainability and growth of social economy organisations in areas of rural disadvantage.
The project objectives are
- To support and build capacity of community and voluntary organisations in transition towards social enterprise
- To support and promote the growth of existing social enterprises
Organisations interersted in participating should download the accompanying application form and submit it as soon as possible but no later than Monday 1st September. Application forms can be submitted to the office nearest you. Visit our Contact Page for correspondence details.
We would welcome the opportunity to come out and see you to discuss your application at the earliest convience and to answer any questions you may have in relation to RISE.
View RISE Application |  |
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Ever used the DIY Committee Guide?The DIY Committee Guide is an online resource providing information for voluntary management committees and those interested in governance. It was developed by the Volunteer Development Agency in partnership with 14 other organisations. It has been operational for just over a year and in that time has seen a good and increasing level of usage.
www.diycommitteeguide.org
For further information please contact Denise Hayward on 028 9023 6100 or email: denise@volunteering-ni.org
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UnLtd Level 1 & 2 AwardsUnLtd Northern Ireland is focussed on supporting individuals who are committed to making a positive change in their communities. These individuals have looked at the problems and issues in their communities and have developed innovative and sustainable projects to tackle things like environmental and waste problems, anti-social behaviour and support for minority ethnic groups etc.
Through its level 1 and 2 award scheme UnLtd provide practical and financial support to social entrepreneurs in the UK; people with vision, passion, drive and commitment, who want to change the world for the better.
- Level 1: Awards of between £500 and £5,000 (expected average of £2,000)
- Level 2: Awards of between £10,000 and £20,000 (expected average of £15,000)
Level 1 Awards are designed to help make new ideas become real projects. UnLtd gives out 1,000 Level 1 Awards each year across the UK. Level 1 Awards are aimed at individuals or informal groups of people who have an idea and want help getting it off the ground. The money is to help with the running costs of the project.
Level 2 Awards support people whose ideas are already developed or pay for the living expenses of Award Winners to help them devote more time to their projects. These Awards are given out once in the spring and once in the winter.
For further details contact UnLtd NI Development Manager Ciara Brennan at
Room 55-57
Scottish Mutual Building
16 Donegal Square South
Belfast, BT1 5JG
028 9024 4007
nualamcnally@unltd.org.uk
ciarabrennan@unltd.org.uk |  |
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UnLtd Sport Relief AwardsUnLtd Sport Relief Awards, a new £1m awards programme aimed at encouraging young people to use sport to tackle social issues in their communities was launched on Wednesday 6 June.
The UnLtd Sport Reloef Awards programme which will be delivered by UnLtd - the foundation for Social Entrepreneurs, will give young people aged between 11 -21 the opportunity to unite communities divided by conflict, using the enabling power of sport. It will provide awards - in the form of cash and practical support - to young people who have innovative, sports and recreation related ideas for tackling problems in their communities.
UnLtd Sport Relief Awards is an open programme across the UK and will provide awards in the range of £250 - £5,000 to enable promising young people with innovative ideas to set up projects.
For further information contact 020 5661118 or www.unltd.org.uk/sportreliefawards |
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IFI Building Bridges Programme to OpenThe International Fund for Ireland Building Bridges programme managed by the Community Relations Council is now open for expressions of interest. The Building Bridges programme is for contact between divided communities.
Contact the Community Relations Council on 028 9076 8832 or visit www.community-relations.org.uk for further information. |
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RCN Launch 'Skills & Knowledge Report for Rural Community DevelopmentThe Rural Community Network in partnership with the Carnegie Trust have recently launched a report entitled 'The skills & knowledge needed to take forward the practice of Rural Community Development over the next 10 years'.
The purpose of this action research was to listen and record the opinions and experiences of people involved in rural community development and understand the skills and knowledge requirements of community activists, community development workers; statutory bodies, community development funders and advisors.
If you would like a copy of this report, please contact the Rural Community Network (RCN) on 028 8676 6670 or email info@ruralcommunitynetwork.org
www.ruralcommunitynetwork.org |
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Smith Institute 'Social Enterprise Futures' ReportThe Smith Institute has produced a publication examining how barriers to the growth and development of the social enterprise sector could be overcome. The independent think-tank worked with the Social Enterprise Coalition and others, to produce 'Social Enterprise Futures'.
The publication features a foreword by SEC's chief executive, Jonathan Bland, and essays from social entrepreneurs, including
- Liam Black, Director of the Fifteen Foundation
- Pauline Graves, Shepshed Carers
- Alastair Wilson, Chief Executive of the School for Social Entrepreneurs
- Nigel Kershaw, Chief Executive of BIGinvest and Chair of The Big Issue
and - Andrew Robinson MBE, Director of Market Development at CCLA Investment Management
View Social Enterprise Futures
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The Case for Better Community & Voluntary Sector Governance in IrelandThe issue of how community and voluntary organisations govern themselves is coming under ever-increasing scrutiny in the face of increasing demands for accountability and compliance with regulations among groups in the sector.
To face the issue of governance head-on The Wheel joined with Boardmatch to publish a report entitled 'The Case for Better Community & Voluntary Sector Governance in Ireland' which contains guidelines and best practice.
You can download a copy of this report on www.wheel.ie or telephone 01 454 8727.
View The Case for Better Community & Voluntary Sector G |  |
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eTenders Public Procurement Web Site - www.etenders.gov.ieeTenders has been developed by the Department of Finance and is designed to help you find and publish tender notices on government and public sector procurement across Ireland.
You can register as a buyer or supplier and experience the immediate benefits of eTendering and eSourcing. |
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Community Workers Co-Operative call for Equal PartnershipThe full report on the the recent consultation by the Community Workers Co-operative (CWC) on the draft operational programme for Peace 3 has now been submitted to the Special EU Programmes Body (SEPB).
CWC National Co-ordinator Sean Regan outlines the key points identified through the consultation exercise including;
- The ongoing recognition of the impact of the conflict on the border region in the Peace Programme was welcomed, as was the acknowledgement that peace building is a longterm and multi-dimensional process.
- The continuation of the reconciliation criteria during the Peace II which gave clear direction to applicants on how to do reconciliation work was warmly welcomed.
- The proposed five crosscutting themes – Equality, Cross- Border Co-operation, Sustainable Development, Impact on Poverty and Partnership were welcomed as was the emphasis on Equality, particularly the recognition of the racism experienced by minority groups in the border region.
- Disappointment was expressed that there was no Equality Impact Assessment of the OP carried out in the border region
For a full copy of the report follow the link Community and Voluntary Sector Consultation on the Draft Peace III Operational Programme or read Sean Regan's comments below.
View Sean Regan Comments |  |
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RISE NEW OFFICE IN CO MONAGHANSocial Economy Solutions is opening a new office on Monday 26th March 2007. The office will be based in the border county region of Co. Monaghan.
This office will be staffed by Carmel Woods the new Development Advisor on the RISE project. The address and contact number of this office is detailed below:
Social Economy Solutions
Carrickmacross Workhouse
Shercock Road
Carrickmacross
Co Monaghan
Tel: 00353 429664540
email: carmel@rise.ie | |
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PlayBoard launches Play ManifestoPlayBoard, the leading play agency in Northern ireland, has called on the government and politicians to encourage schools to give greater priority to children’s play. The call is contained in a special ‘Play Manifesto’ which PlayBoard is launching Tuesday, 13th February.
PlayBoard says that the move would help tackle the spiralling levels of child obesity in Northern Ireland.
PlayBoard is also hosting a series of of PLAY seminars on Wednesday 28th March. These are aimed at decision makers, planners, school principals and those with a responsibility for implementing and developing play provision and policy at all levels.
Participants will receive information about PlayBoard developments, play innovation and best practice. Presentations will include:
- School Age Childcare: WHO’S TOO OLD FOR CHILDCARE?
- Reclaiming PlaySpace: WHERE HAVE ALL THE CHILDREN GONE?
- Positive PlayGrounds: DIP DIP YOU’RE IT?
- Fit for Play: PLAY TODAY, FIT FOR TOMORROW?
- The Big Deal and PlayQuest: WHOSE LINE IS IT ANYWAY?
For further information visit the PlayBoard Website. To Register for this event you can contact Lisa O’Connor on 028 90803380 or by email info@playboard.co.uk
View PlayBoard Play Manifesto
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Community Interest CompaniesA new type of company will be introduced in Northern Ireland on 6 April 2007 called a Community Interest Company (CIC).
CICs are designed specifically for those wishing to operate for the benefit of the community rather than for the benefit of the owners of the company. The special features of CICs make them particularly suitable for this purpose. A CIC may be a public company limited by shares, a private company limited by shares or a company limited by guarantee and will have the same benefits and obligations as other limited companies including registration in Companies Registry.
A CIC may be registered in Companies Registry in the same way as other companies with the same incorporation documents;- A memorandum of association
- Articles of association
- Form 21 & Form 23
When forming a CIC the following documents are required in addition to those listed above:
- A community interest statement, and
- An excluded company declaration
CICs will be regulated by a CIC Regulator with a UK wide remit who will provide guidance and assistance relating to CICs.
An awareness seminar on CICs will be held on Friday 30 March from 9.30 - 12 noon in The Mount Conference Centre Belfast - for further information on this event contact Stephen Macdonald. Tel: 028 90529255 or e-mail stephen.macdonald@detini.gov.uk.
For further information on CICs please go to the regulators website
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Sustainable SunshineThe NCVO 'Sustainable Funding Project' (SFP) has produced a new needs analysis tool: Sustainable Sunshine
Produced by the SFP for the Finance Hub, the Sustainable Sun Needs-Analysis Tool is a diagnostic tool in A4 fold-out leaflet format, enabling organisations to plot their current organisational health, consider future development and display on a wall to monitor their progress. Organisations can use the tool in a group discussion to think about and highlight what is working well for them and what might be holding them back.
The tool, including full instructions, is free to download from the publications section of the SFP website
Alternatively you can download the document from the link below.
View Sun Needs Analysis Toolkit |  |
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Launch of National Development PlanOn the 23rd of January An Taoiseach Bertie Ahern officially launched the National Development Plan 2007-2013. In his speech he noted the interconnectedness of social and economic objectives as the anchor to supporting sustainable improvements in our quality of life, stating, "Key to this sustainability will be the deepening appreciation of the strong interdependence between our social, economic and environmental goals, ...". Recognising social partners, the Taoiseach went on to say, "This National Development Plan places more emphasis on social investment than ever before. I want to emphasise that almost half of the overall spend under this plan is earmarked for social infrastructure and social inclusion priorities, strengthening our capacity to adjust from the old to the new, while ensuring that those most vulnerable in society to the pressures of change are appropriately supported and protected.
More than €33.6 billion is earmarked for developing our social infrastructure across a range of areas including housing; hospitals; primary care facilities, particularly for our older people; sports and cultural facilities; ...
In addition, to tackle social exclusion, over €50 billion will be invested in childcare, education, services for people with a disability, home and community healthcare, integration of newcomers to Ireland and community development.
In parallel, we will ensure that resources are targeted on the most disadvantaged urban, rural, Gaeltacht and Island communities."
The social dimension of the NDP will be of interest to many working in the social economy sector and we now await with interest the National Action Plan for Social Inclusion later this month.
The executive summary of the National Development Plan Social Inclusion Priority can be downloaded below. Additional information can be found at The National Development Plan website.
Further information on the forthcoming National Action Plan for Social Inclusion (NAPSinc) can be accessed at The Office for Social Inclusion
View NDP Social Inclusion Priority |  |
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INTERREG IV ConsultationNorthern Ireland, the border counties of Ireland and parts of western Scotland are set to benefit from a new seven-year €256 million (£170 million) INTERREG programme made up of €192 million in additional funding from the European Union along with national contributions of €64 million.
The Special EU Programmes Body, which is responsible for the management of the new programme, today published the proposed INTERREG Operational Programme for public consultation.
Shaun Henry, Director of Programmes, Special EU Programmes Body said:
“The overall theme of the Programme is to strengthen and deepen cross-border co-operation with an emphasis on supporting strategic plans and projects which will maximise the impact of the funds throughout the eligible area. The aim, therefore, is to create a more prosperous region and improve access to services to enhance the quality of life for those living in the eligible area.”
You can download the INTERREG IV consultation draft from the link below. Alternatively you cut and paste the following url (http://www.seupb.org/consultation_docs_interreg.htm) into your browser for access to all relevant documentation.
View INTERREG IV |  |
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Online Evaluation PlatformEvalsed is a free online interactive resource providing guidance on the evaluation of socio-economic development. Developed and published by the European Commission, it promotes the exchange of experience and good practice as well as increasing the relevance of evaluation to decision-making.
Evalsed consists of two main parts: A Guide and three Sourcebooks.
The Guide is aimed at those responsible for socio-economic development within the EU. It covers:
* Evaluation and socio-economic development
* Designing and implementing evaluation
* Developing evaluation capacity
* The choice of methods and techniques
The Sourcebooks are designed for practitioners and those wishing to acquire evaluation skills
* Evaluation approaches for particular themes and policy areas
* Evaluation methods and techniques
* Resource material on evaluation capacity building
For further information go to http://www.evalsed.com
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An Creagán Study VisitBallybay Development Association and Truagh Development Association from Co. Monaghan recently undertook a successful study trip to An Creagán Visitor Centre in the foothills of the Sperrins in Co. Tyrone.
The study visit looked at the history of the centre and the obstacles and challenges that faced the commnuity in builiding what is a very successful social enterprise. In addition the host organisation manager, John Donaghy, spoke of the need to ensue that social enterprises must appreciate the challenge that exists in striking a balance between social aims and financial return for sustainability.
John Donaghy noted to visiting delegates; 'ensuring long term sustainability is a challenge for any business, but for one that is short on support from its board in terms of knowledge and voluntary committment is one that will face significantly greater challenges in remaining sustainable'.
View Press Release |  |
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Boardmatch IrelandBoardmatch Ireland is a nwe initiative which aims to support thr development of the voluntary and community sector by strengthening boards and management committees.
Boardmatch Ireland provides a web-based matching service where people register their interest in working on nonprogit boards. These candidates are then matched, based on location, skills and preferred area of intererst, to noprofit organisations who have registered their board opportunities. Boardmatch Ireland will support Boards to integrate these new members sucessfully.
For further information contact Brian Sheehan, Fumbally Court, Fumbally Lane, Dublin 8, Ireland.
T: +353 1 4535023
F: +353 1 4547981
E: brian.sheehan@boardmatchireland.ie
Http:www.boardmatchireland.ie
View Boardmatch Ireland | |
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