There’s no shortage of passion in Norfolk’s community buildings when it comes to tackling climate change, but knowing how and where to start can be a real challenge. Many are run by volunteers, rely on tight budgets, and serve rural or low income areas where every penny counts.
The Government has launched the Civil Society Covenant – a new commitment to working more closely with voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations. But what does it really mean for Norfolk’s VCSE sector and the groups we work with through the VCSE Assembly? Here’s a quick overview of what’s in the Covenant, why it matters, and how CAN is helping to make sure it leads to real change locally.
In recent years, the funding landscape for the UK’s voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector has undergone significant change. Reduced local authority support, rising operational costs, and increased competition for limited resources have made it much harder for charities to secure sustainable income.
Norfolk County Council has been ranked third-best in the UK for climate action, thanks to bold steps in cutting emissions, boosting green energy and tackling flood risk across the county.
Tucked away on Eaton Rise in Norwich, the Ipswich Road United Reformed Church is a modest yet forward thinking faith community, quietly leading by example when it comes to sustainability. Established in 1952 to serve the newly developed estate, the church has since grown and evolved both in structure and in purpose.
Changing Times: The Evolving Voluntary Sector and Its Impact.
Over the past decade, Community Action Norfolk (CAN) has been a steady hand through major changes in the voluntary sector. As the needs of communities have grown and the way organisations work has evolved, CAN has helped local groups adapt, grow, and thrive.
Digital access is essential in today’s world, but many people still face barriers getting online. From rural blackspots to limited digital skills, the challenges are real.
ThinkingFuel is Community Action Norfolk’s free heating oil buying scheme, designed to help households, community groups, and businesses across Norfolk save money and time.
By ordering together, our members benefit from competitive prices, expert support, and hassle-free service.
Trussell Trust food banks – including those here in Norfolk – are uniting to urge MPs to take action on social security. They’re organising an open letter calling for benefits to be set at a level that ensures everyone can afford life’s essentials, like food, heating, and hygiene.