New Groups
We offer a variety of services to voluntary and community groups in Camden to enable them to better meet their aims and objectives and to work together on issues of shared concern. For new groups we offer a “Clearing House” system. This system helps us assess groups’ needs and make sure that they get the best possible support from us.
What kind of support can VAC provide?
We offer free or low-cost, one-to-one advice and ongoing support to new groups who want to become part of the Camden Voluntary and Community Sector. A range of support is on offer which could include getting help with:
- clarifying project aims and objectives
- picking a suitable structure e.g. charity, social enterprise, community interest company etc.
- writing a constitution
- registering as a charity
- recruiting and running a management committee
- completing a funding application
- developing a business strategy
- finding premises from which to work
- implementing systems and policies
- training courses for staff, volunteers and trustees (accredited and non-accredited)
What happens when a new group contacts VAC for support?
When a group first contacts VAC and asks for support we ask for some further information and then discuss their request at a fortnightly “Clearing House” meeting. At the meeting the group is allocated a key worker. The key worker then contacts the group and agrees on the work that needs to be done.
The Clearing House route is good for groups who are perhaps unsure about their needs, or who think they may need lots of different kinds of support and are not sure where to start.
We are not a new group but do need support – can VAC still help?
Providing your organization is based in Camden, or primarily serves Camden residents you can still contact VAC for support. Depending on your needs we may refer you through our clearing house system or directly to any of our services.
What if VAC cant help?
VAC works in partnership with a number of other Camden-based infrastructure organisations. Our partners can offer support and advice around volunteering, business planning, disability, funding community-based action, education and training. Where we are unable to assist we aim to refer you to one of our partners for support instead, or signpost you to other local services. You can find our more about the Camden Partnerships on the OneCamden Portal website.
How can we access VAC’s support service?
The fastest way to get support is to download and complete our ‘clearing house form’ and send it by email to: vac@vac.org.uk. Alternatively you can contact us by phone, email or in person, however you will usually need to complete a clearing house form before we can proceed with your request.
Feedback from our members
‘Their help was invaluable in helping us get started because we didn’t really know where to begin and it felt quite overwhelming.’
‘I find the staff a great resource, very knowledgeable. They will always try to help.’
‘After (VAC staff member) visited, we were much clearer about a way forward. We have now been in touch about fundraising, policies, and registration as a charity and each time the staff have been so helpful.’
Contact:
Ashley Charles/Monica Crooks (Jobshare)
Tel: 020 7284 6553 (Typetalk: 18001-020 7284 6553)
Email: buildingadministrator@vac.org.uk