Support for organisations and communities

More than 60 per-cent of community groups across England and Wales have been forced to reduce their services or close completely because of the pandemic, whilst two-thirds say need has increased in their communities. Closure can, however, be a positive move however, often arising from positive circumstances. And there are often other options. 

Over the weekend of the 14th March 2020, we saw several hundred Norfolk communities create new Mutual Aid Groups in response to the pandemic's effect on their communities.

This was our community spirit at its best. A process of forming groups that would normally take several months was accelerated into days. People were coming forward to help, who had never volunteered before. Whatever the legacy of the practical support that was delivered, the simple truth is “you can’t un-meet your neighbour” and this is hugely positive for our communities.

Your elected representatives should take an interest in what is going on in your community and the issues you are facing.  

Making elected representatives aware of your activities and the issues you and your beneficiaries face, is an important part of your overall approach to communications.  

With income under threat from all sides, perhaps it is time to look at all the potential sources of income for charities. So as fundraising income is depressed - in some cases possibly for years - how can VCSE organisations make up for the loss in income?