A problem that inevitably arises for charities of all types is conflict of interest. In this article we will look at being aware of it, how to avoid it, and how to resolve it when it happens.
We often feature articles about the inspiring initiatives happening in response to Covid-19. Except they don’t just happen – they’re the result of innovative, often spontaneous efforts by local individuals who see a need in their community. Mattishall Volunteer Hub (MVH) began life in the very first week of the lockdown in response to the Coronavirus pandemic and is still going strong.
Our CANConnect initiative works with partner agencies across the North Norfolk district of Norfolk and Waveney CCG (Clinical Commissioning Group) to help connect people with activities in their locality, as well as providing individuals with one-to-one support in identifying and achieving their personal goals. CANConnect also provides support for the community itself, helping organisations and people make the places where we live stronger, friendlier, and more resilient.
Citizens Advice Diss, Thetford and District has adapted its services during the pandemic to maintain public access to its advice and support. Caroline Mackinson, Project Coordinator, explains, preceded by a brief retrospective of how much the national network is valued.
Recently the team at the Charity Commission presented an online webinar answering a range of questions specifically for local infrastructure organisations and the charitable groups they work with. The webinar is still available to watch online – links are at the end of this article.
CAN has long been very active in promoting Anglian Water’s ‘Keep It Clear’ initiative, aimed at encouraging the public to dispose of waste water and materiel in the correct and safest way. Busy appearing at fetes, festivals and fun days all across Norfolk, we invited people to think about how we are all responsible for keeping our sewage systems clear and efficient.
The UK’s National Health Service is rated by the US-based Commonwealth Fund as best in the developed world for safety, affordability and efficiency. And we all know it to be one of our most valued and revered welfare institutions. Very occasionally something goes wrong and needs resolving so that everyone involved can learn and move forward. The NHS Complaints Advocoacy SErvice is here to help.
At CAN we have been conducting research to assess the impact of COVID-19 on VCSE operations and service delivery. You can read about this here. We are featuring here regular examples of how groups and organisations have adapted their particular services. This week we’re focussing on Norfolk Community Action Network.
The VCSE sector is hard-pushed financially because of the COVID-19 pandemic and will continue to be so for the foreseeable future. In previous articles we have looked at how the financial challenges require many of us to explore new ways of fund-raising and generating income – and perhaps turn those challenges into opportunities. In this article we will be exploring an option new to many – Social Investment.