Many of you reading this will know that at CAN we’ve been surveying the Norfolk VCSE sector to compile a measured and accurate picture of how voluntary organisations and groups across the county have been adapting and modifying approaches to working with their service users during the COVID-19 crisis. The responses have been channelled into helpful data which will ultimately help present the voice of the voluntary sector to commissioning authorities and to government itself.
CAN has joined with other prominent public and voluntary sector agencies from across Norfolk to warn residents to be extra vigilant of new and existing scams during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dealing with bereavement is never easy. It’s even harder during this difficult period, with separation from loved ones at the most crucial time. Norfolk County Council, together with the Working Together partnership, is offering a 30-minute wellbeing telephone support call to anyone registering a death.
We know that many voluntary and community groups are experiencing severe operating constraints currently, not least the inability to engage directly with clients and service users. One of the great characteristics of the VCSE sector, however, is the ability to adapt and improvise to meet the need.
Working from home under lockdown has become the ‘new normal’ for many voluntary and community organisations. Many of us are now learning to meet via video-link, and it brings new challenges in running an effective meeting!
CAN’s long-standing network of Good Neighbour Schemes across Norfolk was well-placed to mobilise its members to respond quickly to local need = and the past few weeks have seen the Schemes welcome many new volunteers join in response to the COVID-19 crisis.
The Charity Commission is offering guidance on running your charity during the Coronavirus pandemic, with useful information about meetings, postponing AGMs, using reserves and keeping people safe.