Call hvoss on 01432 343 932
hvoss (Herefordshire Voluntary Organisations Support Service)
Call hvoss on 01432 343 932
hvoss (Herefordshire Voluntary Organisations Support Service)
We are delighted to announce final details of the first hvoss Talk Community Funding Network of 2021 – a not to be missed FREE event for anyone looking at future sustainability within the local community. Thursday 28th January - 2pm - Online Book your place HERE This FREE event will help to illustrate the importance of funding for projects as part of a wider menu of opportunities for not-for-profit organisations . hear from a range of prominent local and national funders. be inspired…
Tricky decisions coming up? Perry Walker, co-founder of the Left Bank Discussion Evenings and member of democracy organisation Talk Shop, offers to support - for free - up to three organisations or groups with tricky decisions to take. This is to try out a new approach to decision-making called (appropriately for Herefordshire) the wYe method. Contact Perry on perryw@talkshopuk.org or 07858 750936. He's happy to send a description of how the wYe method works if you just want to know more.…
The census is a survey that happens every 10 years and gives us a picture of all the people and households in England and Wales. This helps to plan and fund public services in our area. ONS are looking for people who would like to get involved with the Census 2021. The data you help collect will have a positive impact on society. There are a range of paid roles, some are temporary and and some are temporary and part-time. Have a look here for more details - https://www.censusjob…
*A reminder for the Christmas period* Coronavirus - Talk Community support There has and continues to be a fantastic community response to supporting vulnerable residents in the county to ensure that they have what they need to stay safe and well during these difficult times. If you are unable to call upon help from family, friends or the local community, please contact Herefordshire Council customer services team by telephone on 01432 260027. If you would like to register as a volunteer to su…
Book clubs, walking groups and other community projects will be able to apply for a £4 million fund designed to help reduce loneliness in the coming months. The Local Connections Fund – made up of £2 million from the Government and £2 million from The National Lottery Community Fund – will be used for hundreds of small grants worth between £300 and £2,500. These investments are designed to help local organisations bring people and communities together as the country recovers from the coronavi…
hvoss continues working as part of the 'Talk Community Herefordshire COVID-19 Response' to help ensure all members of the community are supported, for as long as is needed. hvoss is working with Herefordshire Council and local community groups to coordinate the volunteer community response. Register as an emergency response volunteer with hvoss To register as Covid-19 Response volunteer please click here - Covid Registration Roles include - Vaccination Programme Support (non-medical) Sho…
There are a few ways we can help you reach potential volunteers - 1. Register your group/organisation on the hvoss volunteer database, we call it 'Simply Connect'. Once regsitered you will be able to contact volunteers suited to your organisation. And vice versa! 2. Email/call us to talk in more detail about your volunteer recruitment needs. We can help you with ways to promote your opportunities. 3. If your group is working mainly on the pandemic response, and could use some extra volunteer-p…
hvoss will close for Christmas from end of business 23rd December and will reopen Monday 4th January 2021. Project areas may have different availability over the Christmas period - please get in touch with your project contact. We wish you all a merry Christmas and happy new year!
ECHO is a charity working mainly with people with moderate or severe learning difficulties. We also support people with mental health needs or who have physical or sensory impairments. ECHO runs 25 different activities each week in community settings across Herefordshire. Like many voluntary organisations, ECHO faces funding pressure to maintain income levels to run our services. ECHO only raises a small percentage of its income from general fundraising and there is a need to improve this.…
Leading remotely in a virtual world (5 sessions of on-line training). Our friends at HWGTA have organised what looks like an invaluable opportunity for leaders and senior managers! Facilitated 2-hour conversations to help with reflective practice through COVID-19 and its impacts. Sessions in groups of up to 10. Sessions will be very adaptive, keeping to a broad structure but allowing for topics to be discussed in more detail if the group wishes. All learning from each session will be collated …
This update from Kidwells includes some very useful guidance and current information regarding the pandemic.
Funding opportunity - Postcode Recover Fund £3 million fund launched to support innovation by Britain’s charities as they respond to Covid-19 Charities with innovative ideas to help communities across Britain recover from problems highlighted or exacerbated by the pandemic are being encouraged to apply for a share of a new £3 million fund - with the launch of the Postcode Recovery Fund. https://www.postcodedreamtrust.org.uk/news/3-million-fund-launched-to-support-innovation-by-britain-s-c…
hvoss has pleasure in inviting all members, friends, colleagues, funders, and partner organisations to the 2020 hvoss AGM. Further information, including access to the Trustees's Annual Report and Financial Statements 2019/20 can be found in the invitation from our Chairman, Lynda Wilcox. We hope you can join us!
Aspire has an exciting job vacancy! Personal Assistant to the Chief Executive Are you confident, motivated, organised and a great communicator? Can you easily build relationships with a wide range of people? Do you have: • Excellent IT, website and social media management skills • Effective diary and inbox management • Proven experience of assessing priorities and dealing with conflicting demands • Attention to detail Then Aspire needs you! We have an exciting opportunity to join Aspire’s Ex…
Hvoss Volunteer Database (Simply Connect) – Registering as an Organisation/Managing Roles Visit www.hvoss.org.uk homepage, scrolling to the bottom look for the turquoise box labelled ‘We Involve Volunteers – Advertise Roles’ and follow the ‘more’ button. On the next screen click the red button ‘Register/Login to advertise your roles’ If you are using the database for the first time, click the ‘Register’ organisation button. If you have previously registered, fill out your email address a…
The Big Skill 'Camera on the Community' Camera in the Community is your chance to participate in a new project. Putting together a journal of what effect COVID-19 has had on our lives and looking towards the future. Every Tuesday at Saxon Hall, from 10 am to 4 pm We aim to capture this moment in time for our community. Adding to the records of the social history of people and events in our area. Such as the Canary Girls of Rotherwas, photographer Derek Evans photographic archive of Hereford Life…
Purple Leaf, through their parent organisation West Mercia Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre (WMRSASC), have over 30 years’ experience of delivering front line support to survivors of abuse and exploitation as well as providing education, training and awareness-raising for survivors and the professionals that support them. We have developed a free one-hour e-learning resource called ‘An introduction to Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation - Key Messages for Practitioners’ which focuses on t…
The EF Bulmer Trust, now a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) supports former employees of HP Bulmer Holdings PLC and works to improve the lives of people in hardship, need, or distress across Herefordshire. Formerly the EF Bulmer Beneveloent Fund, EF Bulmer Trust has now become a CIO and with that the new name - EF Bulmer Trust. Their website is at the same address as before but the website is brand new and now includes new application forms, new standard grant conditions, new FAQ's…
As its a Bank Holiday we have produced hvoice August EXTRA. Enjoy your long weekend!
#StrongerHereford chair Mark Stevenson (centre) with board members Laura Hughes (left) and Lauren Rogers (right) at Victoria Bridge in Hereford. Hereford is one of 100 places invited by the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government to be part of the £3.6 billion Towns Fund, a scheme that seeks to support economic growth in towns and cities around the UK. An independent Towns Fund board, backed by Herefordshire Council, has now been established to lead this work locally.…
Herefordshire Community Foundation plays a vital role in supporting communities and individuals in needs across Herefordshire. They have an exciting opportunity for a Grants Administrator to join their team. Details on their website. Closing date is 18th September.
Its here! - Our latest hvoice newsletter August 2020.
As the Country cautiously emerges from lockdown, a number of voluntary groups dedicated to keeping Hereford looking its best can, once again, be found cleaning up litter and planting up the Hereford City flower beds. Volunteers from ‘Hereford Community Clean Up Group’ organised by Emma Jones, and ‘Hereford in Bloom’, organised by Paul Hodges, are again busy working to ensure Hereford is shown at its very best. To support these groups, Hereford Council provide each volunteer to Hereford Commu…
BBO Baking Book March 2020, we all found ourselves working from home and looking for new ways to engage and support the people we work with. After settling in and resolving IT issues, we decided to use ZOOM for individual and group work and baking was suggested. Many participants had never baked before. We started week 1 with a Madeira cake and discovered some people did not have weighing scales, tins, ingredients, poor internet connections and had ovens that performed very differently. The cha…
Active Herefordshire & Worcestershire is recruiting! Project Officer (Children and Young People) Fixed Term Contract (Maternity Cover) Active Herefordshire & Worcestershire is seeking an enthusiastic individual to support their commitment to reducing inactivity amongst children and young people by 'inspiring a generation'. More details and how to apply here! https://www.activehw.co.uk/jobs/6909
Hereford Waterworks Museum is looking for Additional Volunteers For those of you who’ve not yet had the chance to visit the Waterworks Museum, it's an industrial heritage attraction which tells the story of drinking water in the county. Run entirely by volunteers the museum appeals to engineering enthusiasts and families alike. The commitment and enthusiasm of our volunteers (even in Covid-19 lockdown) is immense ... whether they restore and operate the engines and pumps, create new exhibit…
NEW! Latest brochure - Herefordshire Activities Together (HAT) Brochure (Edition 2020) Herefordshire Activities Together -Something for everyone to do in our beautiful county! The latest edition of our brochure is here. If you are interested in any of the activities please contact the provider. As you will appreciate, availability, opening times, and costs are subject to change due to COVID-19. HAT is a partnership of charities, social enterprises, organisations and groups across Herefords…
Summer activities in Herefordshire If you’re looking for ideas to help you and your family stay active and entertained during the summer holidays, there's lots of different activities taking place across Herefordshire, even during the ongoing coronavirus situation. https://www.wisherefordshire.org/summeractivities
The Knife Angel is a stunning 27ft, 3.5 ton, sculpture of an angel made out of 100,000 confiscated knives received from 43 Police Forces across the UK. Originating from The British Ironwork Centre in Oswestry and created by sculptor Alfie Bradley, it has been on tour of towns and cities around Britain raising awareness of the issues of knife crime and all forms of violence and aggression. It is a National Monument Against Violence and Aggression, and is coming to Hereford in June 2021. …
The June 2020 issue of hvoice is here! It is full of resources, information and funding opportunities regarding COVID-19 including the important Community Group Survey giving you the opportunity to tell us about the impact of COVID-19.
We want to let you know how Macmillan can support if you are supporting people who are living with or affected by cancer during the Coronavirus (COVID 19) outbreak. These continue to be uncertain and quickly changing times at the moment, and we understand that people are affected in many ways, depending on their individual circumstances. We have developed a number of resources and services to help both you as supporters and also the people you are supporting. Coronavirus (Covid 19) Emergency Gra…
Current Services & Support for Herefordshire Cancer Patients We are very grateful to Nicky Heath, Yeleni Therapy and Support for leading and producing this Directory of services and support for Herefordshire Cancer Patients. Nicky kindly developed this resource following conversations as part of the Talk Community Leaders Meetings being facilitated by hvoss and Herefordshre Council. Please note directory content and service description is subject to change as a result of the developing COVI…
IMPORTANT COVID-19 SURVEY COVID-19 and its the impact on the community and voluntary sector Your views are really important and will inform the Herefordshire COVID-19 recovery plan - including support provided by hvoss, Herefordshire Council, funders and other partners. As you may be aware Talk Community has provided a county wide infrastructure to support vulnerable people, volunteers and community groups and parishes during covid-19 and there has been some fantastic community spirit and s…
Dear Colleagues, Public Health England has launched an updated Psychological First Aid (PFA) digital training module, aimed at all frontline and essential workers and volunteers. The course aims to increase awareness and confidence to provide psychosocial support to people affected by COVID-19. PFA is a globally recognised training in emergency situations and we have developed this new course as part of our national incident response, and in partnership with NHS England, Health Education En…
The spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) is a concern for all of us. Resources for local Community Sector organisations Whilst there's a lot of information available, there's not a lot of advice tailored to the needs of small, local community sector organisations. hvoss has produced some initial information, signposting and guidance which aims to: - 1. Direct you to current information that is available 2. Fill some of the gaps 3. Look at the issues and potential impacts on local…
We are taking part in the 2.6 fundraising challenge. To donate to hvoss and see what we are doing visit https://www.justgiving.com/search?q=herefordshire%20voluntary%20organisations%20support%20service
City of Hereford Rotary Club - Covid-19 Fund Hereford City Rotary Club has today launched a fund to support the local response to the Covid-19 pandemic. “Members of the club are delighted to be able to support the work of Herefordshire Council and Herefordshire Voluntary Organisations Support Service during these unprecedented times,” said club president Katie Farmer. “Unfortunately, the club has had to cancel some major fundraising events planned over the coming months and we recognise that t…
We have an exciting enhanced hvoss membership package offer for April 2020 – March 2021. In additional to existing benefits of hvoss membership we are delighted to announce new value-added services and discounts that will bring considerable financial and wellbeing benefits for your staff, trustees, AND volunteers. Click here to see all the benefits, discounted services and how to apply!
This event has been postponed. We will announce a new date in due course. Final line up announced for follow up Community Wellbeing Event We are delighted to announce further details regarding the next Community Wellbeing Event being held by hvoss and Herefordshire Healthwatch on 18th March 2020. The agenda has been set based on discussions and topics raised at the last event in November 2019. You can read our briefing paper on that event here. - Topics and speakers are centred around: - - …
The Cracked Slipper Company Discover your talent at the 'Big Get Together!'
YOUR ORGANISATION AND CORONAVIRUS NCVO has produced information intended to help decide what steps you and your organisation may need to take in light of the spread of the covid-19 virus. They are keeping this information up to date.
There's a new job vacancy on our website with HOPE Family Centre. Details here
Flood Appeal LATEST!! - Donate or apply for help in the immediate aftermath of recent flooding that has affected so many in recent weeks. Vital recent donation from Freemasons to support the campaign led by Herefordshire Community Foundation and supported by The Hereford Times now stands at c£40,000! Grants now being made to those eligible for assistance. https://www.herefordtimes.com/news/18253746.freemasons-donated-10-000-hereford-times-flood-appeal/ Thank you to everyone that has contacted h…
If you have a health condition or a disability and wish to move into employment, Access to Work (ATW) may be able to help. hvoss has produced this factsheet about Access to Work. Our Building Better Opportunities Team team here at hvoss is able to provide further information and assistance, and please do forward the leaflet onto others that may be able to benefit!
The Herefordshire Community Foundation and the Hereford Times have launched a flood appeal fund to support victims of the recent floods caused by Storm Dennis. Our priority in the immediate aftermath of the floods will be to provide immediate straightforward financial support to people affected by the floods to help with urgent needs like the costs of living in temporary accommodation, or items to people so they could stay in their homes – e.g. costs of running dehumidifiers. This will be fo…
Dear All, We are delighted to invite you to this Cyber-Security Seminar "Halt the Hackers'. The event is for staff, volunteers, and trustees of community sector organisations including voluntary and community groups, registered charities and other not for profit organisations. Being hacked is a very real problem for all of us involved in running a Community Sector organisation, be it large or small. The seminar aims to: - Identify the cyber attack a charity could fall victim to - Help you take…
Vital Summit regarding Children's Safeguarding this month. Places limited. High demand expected so book early to avoid disappointment.
Marches Family Network has produced its latest Allinteractive activity and event listings for FEBRUARY 2020. THere is also a martial arts taster session in February. Details here! The Allinteractive Inclusion project aims to widen the choice and opportunities for disabled and non disabled children and young people form 0 to 25 years and their families throughout Herefordshire. If you would like more information about the project please contact me.Please share this information. best regardsAngela…
‘A League of Our Own’ hvoss is pleased to support a Women’s Football Tournament to commemorate International Women’s Day 8th March 2020 Hereford FC, Edgar Street, Hereford, 10am – 4pm ‘A League of Our Own’ has been organised to celebrate and commemorate the efforts of all women on International Women’s Day and especially the munitions factory workers of Rotherwas during WW1 and WW2. On Christmas Day 1917, two women’s teams from Munitions factories took to the Hereford football pitch in front of …
Macmillan’s Support Grant available for activities and equipment for groups of people living with cancer. In Shropshire,Telford & Wrekin, Herefordshire and Worcestershire, Macmillan’s has a Support Grant which is intended as a quick and easy way of distributing smaller, one-off grants. That can be funds for new groups setting up, and running costs, items of equipment or activities for existing services. Voluntary groups and charities can apply but the costs must be solely for those living wi…
6th February 2020 VCS Event Herefordshire Community Transformation Project Community Sector views are being sought on improving wellbeing and mental health and supporting people with a mental health condition. We are looking to understand the continuum of service in Herefordshire and consider how we can ensure what we offer makes sense for people who might use them and identify any possible gaps. SENT ON BEHALF OF LES TREWIN, OPERATIONAL SERVICE DIRECTOR Dear Colleague, You may be aware tha…
Marches Family Network will be celebrating the 25th anniversary of our incorporation as a company this year. We are planning a ‘birthday’ event/family fun day on Monday 6th April to celebrate! We have booked Withington Village Hall & the event will be running from 10:00am – 2:00pm. We would like to invite other charities, organisations, funders, service providers, entertainers, staff, volunteers – and most importantly, our families & friends. Please spread the word & share on …
The Eveson Charitable Trust offer invaluable guidance to hvoss members We held our first Funding Network Event of 2020 on Wednesday 22nd January. We were delighted to welcome Claire Bowry, Chief Executive of The Eveson Charitable Trust as our guest speaker. Claire, supported by Richard Mainwaring, Eveson Trustee gave a brilliant and informative presentation to 40 local charities and voluntary organisations about how to apply to the Eveson Charitable Trust, and how charities can improve the…
We are delighted to bring you our first edition of hvoice for 2020. There are lots of plans for events this year and we are starting off with some really interesting ones, especially for those seeking funding. Read more here
Our latest hvoice is here! It includes news and updates including a not to be missed opportunity to attend our next Funding Network in Januar.y You can get some brilliant fundraising hints and tips on how to apply to Eveson Charitable Trust and other grant making bodies. Our speaker will be Claire Bowry, Chief Executive of Eveson Charitable Trust.
Highlights from a fun filled and creative 'crafternoon' at Broad Street today. A wonderful way for staff, volunteers, and participants to share time, skills at the end of a busy, productive and celebratory year for all involved in hvoss. Thank you all to everyone that has helped us during the year. Thank you BBO for your hard work and efforts to make today happen! What fun, creativity and hidden talents on display! <erry Christmas from all at hvoss. The Chief Executive was particular…
hvoss and Healthwatch held a very successful Community Sector event to discuss local community resilience and wellbeing. 70 people, representing a cross section of organisations attended. Many welcomed the opportunity to hear about local plans and development in the health and social care sector from Herefordshire Clinical Commissioning Group, Talk Communities, and Primary Care Networks. The event provided an invaluable opportunity to share information, network, and influence thinking about futu…
Community Wheels held a Christmas get together at The Rankin Club, Leominster on Wednesday 4th December to thank all our wonderful volunteers drivers for all they do throughout the year. Linda, Katie and Tracey together with Will Lindesay joined our volunteers to say thank you for all they do for so many customers of the services. Throughout the afternoon, drivers popped in for some light lunch, and to chat and catch up with other drivers. A lovely buffet was provided by The Rankin Club, and …
hvoss and Healthwatch Herefordshire co-hosted a very successful event on 20th November 2019. The event brought together 70 representatives of the community sector and health leaders in the County. Key developments and strategies were discussed. A full briefing will be shared in due course. Thank you to everyone for attending. We look forward to working with Healthwatch Herefordshire to develop actions from the meeting. "I thoroughly enjoyed the meeting yesterday and it was very informative" Par…
Download our latest newsletter - hvoice November 2019 here. It is packed with useful information and resources to support your group and social action.
Growing Local has plans to set up a Community Market Garden. The attached information leaflet sets out the proposal, the reasons and planned approach. Growing Local has a range of upcoming opportunities. Our next Community Events Saturday 9th November Community Big Eat Wednesday 11th December; Garden Volunteer Day Every Wednesday- Adult Wednesday Cook Club @ The Kindle Centre Growing Local is Going Local Community Interest Company Pat Gordon, Louisa Foti, Rachel Moffitt and Heather Percy We …
We are delighted to welcome National Star into hvoss membership! They have a number of exciting job and learning opportunities immediately available. Regional Fundraiser (Home or office-based) National Star, the charity that helps young people with complex disabilities achieve their aspirations, is looking for a proactive regional fundraiser to join its growing team. To be as flexible as possible the role can be home-based or based at National Star, Ullenwood. As Regional Fundraiser you’ll be…
We are delighted to promote the activities of a new member of hvoss! “The Cracked Slipper Company” is a new not for profit community group. We are just finding our feet and hoping our local community will support us on our journey. We decided we needed to give our community more based on the success of our performance of “Cinderella” earlier this year and the impact it had on everyone involved. The Cracked Slipper Company is more than a Community Theatre Company, we are all about…
MoneyBox Credit Union launches new outreach service MoneyBox Credit Union now has a new outreach session open to customers and potential customers to come and see us (or simply to find out what credit unions are all about) running every Wednesday 10 to 12 mid-day, running at the Kindle Centre until Christmas. This new session is on top of the usual Friday 10 to 12 session. We have produced a new Christmas leaflet that informs people about the new opening times as well encouraging people to join…
Summary - About this document This document provides a high-level, overarching framework for the West Midlands region on the approach and process to follow when responding to allegations and concerns relating to people who work in a Position of Trust (PoT) with adults who have care and support needs. The Care Act 2014 introduced a single new statute to replace most existing adult social care law. The care and support statutory guidance formalised the expectations on local Safeguarding Adults B…
Celebration of hvoss contribution towards an active and vibrant Community! Over 100 people attended the hvoss AGM on 16th October 2019. It was a fabulous celebration of voluntary and community action in the county. The meeting approved the appointment of two new member representaives onto the board of trustees, Euan McPherson of SIL and Rich Matthews of Rural Media Company. The annual report 2018/19 was adopted following presentation of the activities and achiements by Will Lindesay DL Chief Ex…
The Friends of Castle Green are looking to recruit dynamic individuals to extend the skills base of the board of directors of this active Community Interest Company in the heart of Hereford City. The role of Board Director is voluntary and would suit people with the skills to help take Friends of Castle Green into the future, a strong interest in developing community led services and some time to commit to a worthy cause. It is an exciting time to join the FOCG Team. We have recently been the b…
Herefordshire Churches Together Group seeks to apppoint Development Worker for innovative new project! Vowchurch & Turnastone PCC, in partnership with the Diocese of Hereford, is seeking to appoint a self-employed development worker for the Virtuous Circles Project. We have secured a fund from the National Lottery Heritage Inspiring Ideas Programme to carry out some preparatory work to allow the project to move forward. The Concept Virtuous Circles is an innovative new model f…
Taurus Healthcare Ltd held its 2019 AGM on Thursday 10th October. Taurus has published an annual report e-book which goes into more detail about Taurus - who is involved and what they do, as well as the changing world of general practice. The e-book gives an insight into the wider Taurus team, and how it looks to support Herefordshire general practice. You can read the annual report by visiting the Taurus website www.taurushealthcare.co.uk or by clicking here
The Autumn edition of hvoice is here, including your invitation to our AGM on 16 October at the Courtyard Centre for the Arts, details of forthcoming workshops, follow up from our Legal Responsibilities for Voluntary Organisations workshop with Sandy Adirondack, Renewable Energy Projects and lots more besides.
Just one week to go until this year's annual Silver Sunday event. There's lots of information on the website about events that are taking place throughout the country to celebrate older people: https://silversunday.org.uk/
hvoss has pleasure in inviting all members, friends, colleagues, funders, and partner organistions to the 2019 hvoss AGM. The AGM will be held on Wednesday 16th October at The Courtyard Theatre, Edgar St, Hereford, HR4 9JR. Following the formal business of the meeting, there will be an opportunity to hear from people involved in hvoss about our key project achievements during the year, and to network with many other involved in community life across the county. The relevant documents are availab…
I know it's still only September .......... but next month Aspire are holding an early Christmas Fair - and invite all crafters and charities to participate, especially if you have created anything to sell. Lovely opportunity to connect with the community.
Congratulations to Alex Rowe, a Youth Trustee at the Hereford based Waterworks Museum. https://www.herefordtimes.com/news/17905739.museum-volunteers-scoops-regional-award/
Megan Bennett MBE declares new hvoss offices at 52 Broad Street open! Over 100 friends, funders, supporters, volunteers joined hvoss staff and trustees on Wednesday 4th September to watch Megan Bennett MBE officially open the new hvoss HQ at 52 Broad Street, Hereford. Above: Megan Bennett MBE cutting the ribbon. It was fitting that Megan was asked to open the new premises. For over 70 years Megan has been a champion of volunteering, health and social care, community transport, and youth initi…
Rosie our mascot and a special guest appearance from Micky Mouse attracted great interest in High Town Hereford on Saturday 14th September for a street collection to raise vital funds for, and awareness of, hvoss. The day did so much to raise awareness of the charity's work and our new offices in Broad Street. We would like to thank everyone that donated. In line with our remit to support local charitable causes we are going to produce a hints and tips guide for local charities on undertaking s…
Introduction to Legal Responsibilities of Voluntary Organisations - Wednesday 25th September 2019 We are pleased to announce a not to be missed training opportunity for anyone involved with charity governance. Sandy Adirondack returns to Herefordshire to run this vital training day! This introductory-level seminar is intended for *board members (trustees/ management committee members) of voluntary organisations, *people who are considering joining a board and *relevant staff. *It may also be o…
LUPUS GET TOGETHER Do you, a family member or friend have Lupus? Join us for a coffee & chat, share experiences and see how we can support each other locally. WEDNESDAY 18th SEPTEMBER 2019 10.30am to 12.30pm Stretton Sugwas Village Hall Stretton Sugwas Hereford HR4 7PT For more info visit: www.westmidlandslupus.co.uk West Midlands Lupus Group Tel: 07967145346
Safeguarding Children & Young People in Herefordshire Transitions Arrangements Update The new Safeguarding Children & Young People in Herefordshire arrangements were published at the end of June 2019. You can read the full document here: New arrangements As you will probably know, these arrangements replace the Herefordshire Safeguarding Children Board and sub groups. Final meetings have taken place for the previous board and its subgroups and the new arrangements will be formally in …
We were asked by a prospective volunteer the other day..... "If I was asked what hvoss is and does what would I say?" It led onto a conversation about how much people actually know about particular projects and service hvoss run? In our new office we want to involve more volunteers in the office and our services. But what would a front of house volunteer in our new offices in Broad Street say to one of the many people that are already coming through the door for assistance? To help with this, w…
Email Marketing Essentials In this FREE training session, Faster Business advisors, Mandy Sims and Catherine Banks, will help you understand the benefits of email marketing and how to incorporate it into your marketing strategy. Email Marketing Essentials (Hereford) Date: Friday 30th August 2019 Time: 12:00-14:00 Location: Hereford Business Solutions Centre, Skylon Court, Coldnose Road, HR2 6JS Register to attend For more information and to regist…
hvoss member Marches Family Network Is looking for Youth Support Workers, Volunteers and Trustees! Marches Family Network (Charity number 1047075) We are a unique, well-established, registered charity providing valued support and opportunities for children and young people with a disability or additional needs. Due to increasing demand for our services, we are recruiting for support workers and volunteers to help at our Saturday term time activity days in Herefordshire and/or South Shropsh…
NOT TO BE MISSED!! Legal Responsibilities of Voluntary Organisations Training Day - Wednesday 25th September 2019 We are pleased to announce a not to be missed training opportunity for anyone responsible for charity governance. Sandy Adirondack returns to Herefordshire to run this vital training day! Sandy Adirondack (www.sandy-a.co.uk) has been a freelance management trainer and consultant in the voluntary sector since 1980, working primarily on governance and legal issues with small and medium…
After a great deal of hard work and with grateful thanks to volunteers, staff, local businesses, tradespeople, funders and a generous and charitable landlord we are delighted to unveil our new, accessible, high quality offices right in the heart of our beautiful city at 52 BROAD STREET, HEREFORD, HR4 9AB. Over the coming months we look forward to welcoming you to our new home, which we fully intend to establish as a community resource for local social action, including our Volunteer Bureau…
View are being sought regarding the future provision of drug and alcohol service for Herefordshire. Please see below link to the drug and alcohol service survey, results of which will be used to inform our drugs needs assessment (due for publication in November 2019) and also for the recommissioning of the county’s integrated Young People’s and Adult’s drug and alcohol services. W would be grateful if you could share the following link with your professional networks, the closing date is 30 Se…
Would you like to swop the heat of your office for an afternoon on a golf course? Would you also like to raise awareness of your business and offer your staff some wellbeing benefits at the same time? Read on .......
We are delighted to announce that Hereford City Council and hvoss will be hosting another training workshop on the Legal Responsibilities of Voluntary Organisations with Sandy Adirondack in September. Once again, we anticipate places to sell out so please ensure you book early. There will also be a workshop on Social Media Strategy Essentials with Fastershire at the end of July. And, of course, details on our new address and much more inside
Volunteer Expo: 1 - 3 May 2020 The UK's newest, National Volunteering Event comes to the NEC Birmingham in May 2020. It is the first and only event of its kind in the UK. Volunteer Expo is aimed at the third sector and will be hosted by Rotary. It will be the biggest exhibition of its kind and we expect hundreds of Voluntary organisations to target this event to increase brand awareness and highlight their cause. The event will give organisations and charities the opportunity to showcase their p…
HEREFORD FOOD BANK is moving to NEW PREMISES From Monday June 3rd 2019 we will operate from 41, Monkmoor Street, Hereford, HR1 2DX Larger premises will enable us to sustain and improve our service both to those who need our support and to those who enable us to function by staffing the foodbank, by collecting and delivering food and other items to us and by assisting us in so many other ways. Contact/referral arrangements will continue as at present, but our telephone number is changing t…
There are new job opportunities happening at Oscars cafe with the HOPE Family Centre.
Silver Sunday occurs each year in October. This year it will be on Sunday 6 October. The aim is to create fun events for older people to reduce the impact of isolation & loneliness. Here's the website. As we know, Herefordshire has a high percentage of older people and isolation is a growing issue. However, Herefordshire currently hasnt any events listed on the Silver Sunday website. Could you help change that? Would your organisation be willing to arrange an event? Could there be an…
We are delighted to announce that the hvoss AGM 2019 will be held on Wednesday 16 October at the Courtyard in Hereford from 1pm.
We are delighted to annouce the extension of the opening hours of the Community Wheels booking line You can now make a booking for Community Wheels transport until 2.30pm each afternoon. Thats an extra 2.5hours per week for people who want to be able to get out and about to ring up and make a booking and we think that's important. A one off registration with Community Wheels is needed before the booking can be made and journeys need to be booked 48 hours in advance. /categories/community-tr…
Support for male survivors of childhood sexual abuse The 17 Percent of Men support groups meet in Room 1 at the Kindle Centre, Belmont Road, Hereford between 7 - 8pm. The next meetings will be on 23 January, 6 & 20 February and 13 & 27 March 2019. The support group is a dedicated group for men in Herefordshire who were sexually abused when they were boys ‘The 17 Percent of Men’ has been set up for men who have experienced child sexual abuse and are living with the effects. Men bott…
The hvoss AGM took place on Wednesday 14 November 2018 at the Kindle Centre, Hereford. hvoss continues to play 'vital' support role in support of charities, community and social action across Herefordshire! hvoss (Herefordshire Voluntary Organisations Support Service), the local support services for voluntary organisations in Herefordshire held a highly successful AGM on 14th November. Over 90 members, volunteers and local dignitaries heard about a range of vital support services the cha…
We are delighted to invite you to our AGM 2018, where we will be celebrating our achievements duirng the year April 2017 to March 2018, including showcasing the work of our members. Come along and meet Rosie our remarkable Guide Dog. Click here for more details.
Hereford Area Plan – Housing and Employment Site Options Consultation The Hereford Area Plan (HAP) will set out detailed proposals to ensure the delivery of the targets for the city in the adopted Core Strategy. It will include policies and proposals for growth in the city of Hereford including specific proposals for housing, employment and urban regeneration. In doing so, the plan must also protect and enhance its attractive built and natural environment, providing for its current and future c…
There were a number of great speakers at our September Funding Network event. First up were Sheenagh Davies and Philippa Spens of Herefordshire Community Foundation (HCF). HCF is a grant maker seeking to develop local philanthropy across Herefordshire. It has numeous donor funds that is distributes to good causes in line with the wishes of funders. Sheengah and Philippa spoke passionately about their support, the types of groups being funded by HCF, and how to apply. You can view their presentat…
multi-agency practitioner forum events Did you know that there are regular joint multi-agency practitioner forum events which provide practitioners with regular updates from Herefordshire Safeguarding Children Board and Herefordshire Safeguarding Adults Board and provide the opportunity to share good practice and update knowledge on safeguarding children and adults at risk? Any professional working with adults or children is welcome to attend. As an example of what the forums cover, the m…
Our latest hvoice e-bulletin for September 2018 is here, it includes some exciting, must attend workshops!
For details on how to book at stall at next months REACH Community Market in High Town please click here. Booking deadline is 1st September 2018
hvoss member MentorLink provide a one-to-one mentoring service throughout Herefordshire for children and young people who are facing difficulties and to support them to create a more positive attitude towards themselves. The charity is currently seeking additional male role models to mentor and support young boys. To raise awareness of the need for more men to volunteer and to highlight the charity, one of their existing male mentors has decided to put in some legwork of a different kind
The new Civil Society strategy has been published today and there is much that will interest us in Herefordshire. Civil Society Strategy: building a future that works for everyone This Strategy sets out how government will work with and for civil society in the long-term to create a country that works for everyone. You can find the exec summary and the full document here
Public Health England have made us aware of a Home Office £8m fund to target domestic violence. This is open to both local statutory and voluntary sector providers to bid into (bids need to be at least £500k and any awards will need to be spent in total by 31 March 2020). You can see the prospectus here and there’s more on bidding here.
New in today from Public Health West Midlands: "I am pleased to inform you that the Children of Alcohol Dependent Parents Section 64 grant scheme is now open for applications from non-governmental organisations. You will find the relevant documents on the link below: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/support-for-children-of-alcohol-dependent-parents-guidance-and-application-forms On 23rd April 2018 the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) and the Department of Work and Pensio…
Welcome to our latest ebulletin containing details of forthcoming events and training opportunities.
A must attend workshop for anyone involved in running a charity, voluntary or community group! When: 27th September (10.00 - 4.30p.m - Lunch and refreshments provided) An interactive Workshop which considers Governance in the Non-for-Profit Sector through reference to the New Charity Governance Code (smaller charities). A digest of the provisions in the Code will brief delegates regarding the standards to which the Charities Commission expects charities to be overseen by their Boards and set …
Mental Capacity Act Self-Assessment Herefordshire Safeguarding Adult Board brings together individuals and representatives from various agencies to work in partnership and develop best practice to keep adults at risk of harm and abuse safe. It aims to make sure that adults receive a person-centred approach to care and that in all cases, their best interests are met. This self-assessment carried out in conjunction with Herefordshire Council and Herefordshire Clinical Commissioning Group seeks…
Hereford make CIC - Community Groups Event 27th July 2018 Invite you to join us to discuss how we can improve our community and work together to make things happen! Further information and a programme of how to get involved is available here
Our latest hvoice update for June 2018 is avaialable here!
We are looking for new trustees! Herefordshire Mind is the largest specialist voluntary sector mental health organisation in Herefordshire, with a turnover of £1 million and 50 staff working across three locations. We have 40 years’ experience of working to improve people’s mental health and wellbeing and we won’t give up until everyone experiencing a mental health problem gets both support and respect. Our mission is to provide quality support, whilst raising awareness and promoting …
A new look WISH! Have you seen the new and improved WISH website for Herefordshire? WISH is run by Herefordshire Council and is designed to enable residents to live safe, healthy and independent lives. The website covers information, services, events and activities for residents of all ages across the county, which helps people take control of their own wellbeing needs and better connects them to their local communities. It also enables providers to promote their services to Hereford…
We have two vacancies here at hvoss. We are looking to recruit a Finance Officer and Community Transport Administrator to join our busy, supportive team. For further information and to apply visit the jobs page on our website. For further information about our current services take a look at our Annual Report 2016/17. It provides a useful summary showcasing the variety of support we provide for public benefit across Herefordshire.
HDU invite you to join their Mental Health Seminar Wednesday 6th June 10.30—1.00 pm at Hinton Community Centre, Hereford
Children's charity is seeking male role models. For further information, please click here
The gardens of Heffernan House have battled through winter and are now seeking some help from the community to help them shine brightly. If you are able and willing to give some time to tidying these gardens please click here
The Charity Commission For England and Wales has launched a new Charity Trustee Welcome Pack - A must read for those new to charity governance and an excellent refresher guide for all trustees and directors.
All Interactive Inclusion Network Herefordshire News April 2018 Marches Family Network has are some great inclusive activities and workshops for children and young people, inclusive and some specialist workshops such as the OMHI music workshop, for May in Herefordshire. To book or for more information contact the provider or contact given. If you have any difficulties, then please get in touch with me. If you know of events that you would like included please send the details to me. …
We have 3 exciting full time community roles around Social Prescribing immediately available. Click on our jobs page for more details and how to apply.
There is a Funding Surgery Day with Big Lottery Fund at Leominster Community Centre HR6 8NJ on Weds May 23rd, between 10am – 4pm. Sessions will be 45 minutes – 1 hour depending on proposal, and a limited number of places are available. Please contact dtristram@herefordshire.gov.uk to book an appointment.
Hope Familiy Centre in Bromyard are seeking experienced Early Years Practitioners, closing date 27 April and a full-time Early Years Manager (maternity cover), closing date 24 April. For more details and an application pack, please contact the HR department on 01885 488495 or email anna.beddows@hopefamilycentre.org
hvoss member Sports Partnership Herefordshire and Worcestershire has some exciting opportunities and initiatives available including Active Workplace and Foot Golf! For further information about their work visit their website.
We are looking to recruit a supporting Volunteering Co-ordinator and Youth Involvement Worker here at hvoss. Click here for further details and how to apply. Good luck!
The Reaching Communities Big Lottery Fund programme has relauched! Reaching Communities make grants of over £10,000 in England, supporting organisations with great ideas that enable communities to thrive. The grants are awarded to voluntary and community organisations or social enterprises for up to five years. We can fund project activities, operating costs, organisational development and capital costs. We’re really interested in hearing your ideas. Whether they’re big or small, tell us w…
The Spring hvoice e-bulletin can be viewed here! Full of useful information and networking opportunities for you and your organisation. Have a good Easter everyone!
Click here to download an important update on future resilience of musuems, libraries, and archive services across Herefordshire including soft market testing.
Invitation by the Herefordshire Clinical Commissioning Group (HCCG) to the Leominster Integrated Primary and Community Health and Care Project Board - Update and Briefing. The Marches and Westfield GP surgeries deliver services to over 10% of the population of Herefordshire from their current base in Leominster. They are the only GP surgeries in the largest market town in the county. Their current premises in Westfield Walk are approximately 40% undersized with no option to extend or adapt…
Services for Independent Living currently have vacancies for trustees who have a passion for creating a society that treats people equally, providing high-quality services that enable disabled to play an active role in society and ensuring the organisation provides an excellent working environment for its staff. We are particularly interested in hearing from people who have experience of social care, healthcare, business or disability issues. We welcome application and interes…
Hereford River Carnival - 4th and 5th May 2018 Wondering how you can get yourself (or your community group/ school/ workplace) involved with Hereford's biggest community-led event? Well, here's your chance to meet the award winning team behind Hereford River Carnival and ask those burning questions you've been holding back for all this time! On Thursday 22nd March we're throwing open the doors of Cranfields Cafe Hereford and inviting you to come and meet members of t…
Hereford Make CIC wont be charging rental fees to use their facilities during April, May, June 2018. Why not get in touch to see what's available? (conditions apply- see description below including contact details). This opportunity has been made available thanks to the support and assistance of Herefordshire Community Foundation.
A measure of the strong sense of community and caring, found in a wide variety of ways and in a whole range of situations across the county, comes into focus this month when Herefordshire’s Community Champions stand up to take a bow. Here in Herefordshire, we have more than our fair share of men, women and young people making life that bit better for others. This week, hvoss was very pleased to see the efforts of so many acknowledged in the the five award categories of: community, volunte…
New Nationwide Building Society funding programme now open A new funding programme from Nationwide Building Society around Housing and Homelessness. Charities are encouraged to apply for grants to help make a change in their local areas. Grants of up to £25,000 will be available to single organisations and up to £50,000 will be available for partnership bids. With funding, successful projects will be able to provide housing services to people in need, support people off the streets, and mor…
Herefordshire Sport holds successful Sports Awards 2017 to acknowledge the achievements of young sporting stars The annual Herefordshire Sports Awards 2017, held at Hereford Rowing Club in February 2018 provided an opportunity to acknowledge the outstanding sporting success and significant contributions of young people to the community through sport. Will Lindesay, hvoss Chief Executive who presented the awards said "It was a honour to present the awards to the winners and highly commende…
HEREFORD CITY COMMUNITY GROUP ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS 2018 Hereford City benefits from many groups delivering amazing work across the City. Hereford City Council annually recognises and celebrates the work of our City’s great heroes. So, it’s time to nominate your community heroes, or nominate your own group, in one of the Hereford City Community Group Achievement Awards three categories. The Community Projects Awards......improving the look and feel of our City…. A total of 3 award…
Help build a more data-savvy social sector · Why is data such a big deal in the non-profit sector these days? What can we, as a sector, be doing to improve? What help is out there to support organisations on their journey? Data Orchard is inviting leaders of organisations within the social sector in and around the West Midlands to come along to a lunchtime event aimed at answering these questions and unlocking some of the power of data. They'll be formally launching an ambitiou…
Civil Society Strategy 2018 - CONSULTATION OPEN NOW! Have your say on how government can work with and for civil society to tackle challenges and unlock opportunities to build a stronger society now and in the future. Click here for further information and to respond. This consultation closes at 9am on 22 May 2018. Go to our Policy, Research, Consultations, Campaigns page to find out about other developments affecting our sector that impact on local communities and local people we support. …
Refugee Action has recently launched their new asylum system campaign. hvoss supports the campaign and hopes its members, local community groups, organisations and volunteers and partner organisations across Herefordshire will positively and proactively support it. Stand Up For Asylum Today, Refugee Action launches the Stand Up For Asylum campaign. Over the next three years, we will be campaigning to reform the current asylum system that, as you know, too often fails those it is meant …
Herefordshire Safeguarding Children Board has arranged for the following FREE ELearning courses to be available to all staff / organisations for a limited period: Understanding Pathways to Extremism and the Prevent Programme Self-harm and Suicidal Thought in Children and Young People An introduction to FGM, Forced Marriage, Spirit Possession and Honour Based Violence (Cultural Awareness) E-Safety – Guidance for Practitioners and Support for Parents Hidden Harm Parental Mental Health A N…
Eveson Charitable Trust and E.F Bulmer Benevolent Fund provide invaluable hints and tips to charitable organisations on the do's and don't when applying for grants and funding from charitable trusts and funders. Alex Gay and James Greenfield, Trust Administrators for Eveson Charitable Trust and E.F Bulmer Benevolent Fund respectively, kicked off the first in a series of hvoss Funding Networks taking place throughout 2018. Over 40 representatives of local charitable organisations attended, gaini…
Putson Community Association (PCA), based at Saxon Hall, South Wye continues to grow from strength to strength as showcased at its well attended AGM on 12th February. Willl Lindesay, hvoss Chief Executive was amongst many that went along to hear about the successes of the last year and some exciting plans for the future. Will said "It was a pleasure to attend the AGM and to join so many local residents and other members of the community in coming together to acknowledge the excellent work of P…
Healthwatch Herefordshire is seeking the views about the experience of service users, customers and hvoss members who have had/are having a social care review or assessment. Introduction Healthwatch Herefordshire is an independent not for profit company and our role is to gather patient/customer experiences and share them to improve health and social care services. We are carrying out a project to the end of March to find out customer experiences of having a social care assessment or review n…
We are delighted to welcome Herefordshire Green Network (HGN) to hvoss membership. HGN has attended a number of events, including our briefing on GDPR. Further information about HGN and its work can be found at http://www.hgnetwork.org HGN has an exciting job opportunity for an Events Coordinator About the role if you have a passion for sustainable living & carbon reduction; a broad & enthusiastic desire to support communities through event management, activism & social media; a y…
The NWD partnership collaboration goes from strength to strength in providing young people with access and help to a range of information, support and guidance services. There are now over 30 partner agencies all working together to provide information and specialist support to children and young people across the county! For all the latest updates go to our Facebook page here https://www.facebook.com/nowrongdoorherefordshire/ The latest pogrammes are also available here: - February half term…
30 hvoss members attended a GDPR legislation session on Tuesday 23rd January. This was a vital update on changing legislation and data protection law changes from May 2018. The workshop, a partnership effort between Kidwells Law and HEXAD Information Security Services offered a route map for our members towards ensuring compliance with the new legislation. Will Lindesay, hvoss Chief Executive said "This was an invaluable introduction on important legislative changes affecting all charities, vol…
This course has been developed by HSCB to ensure practitioners involved in child protection conferences (ICPCs and RCPC's) understand how these work and are confident to input to child protection decisions.
Our latest e-bulletin including training opportunities, events and networking opportunities of interest to our members, volunteers, community and voluntary groups is now available! hvoice - January 2018
Fulfilling lives – supporting young people into work, making their lives successful and useful. Marches Talent Match Telford is looking to employ part –time maternity cover for a support worker, for 18 – 25 year olds moving towards employability. - To recruit young people and support their involvement through the programme. - To provide Participants with support and guidance promoting wellbeing, personal development and progress towards employment. - To deliver employability skills workshops…
Our latest E-bulletin is here, including a number of invaluable New Year networking and briefing sessions on funding and data protection law to benefit your group and organisation
The 2017 hvoss AGM was brilliantly hosted by The Courtyard Theatre, hvoss member. It was an uplifting and inspiring event attended by 60 representatives of local voluntary and community organisations. Will Lindesay, Chief Executive hghlighted key achievements during 2016/17 in the face of some significant financial pressures facing hvoss, our members and the local voluntary and community sector more widely. Will also outlined our new strategic plan 2017 - 2022. Our Guest speaker, Lady Lisva…
The Cart Shed is celebrating after a receiving the Queens Award for Voluntary Service (QAVS). Trustees, volunteers and users of the services were presented with the award by Lady Darnley, The Lord Lieutenant for Herefordshire. Huge congratulations to everyone involved for achieving such a special award! The presentation event was held at Newport House which is also hosting an Out of Nature Exhibition thoughout October in support of The Cart Shed During October 2017 the third Out Of Nature scul…
Download our latest hvoice Newsletter October 2017 here. It includes an invitation to our AGM on 1st November, along with updates regarding safeguarding, local CAB services and a focus on hvoss member, Services for Independent Living (SIL). This years AGM...... As well as a review of the year 2016/17, future hvoss plans and priorities will be outlined by Will Lindesay, hvoss CEO. We are also very much looking forward to showcasing and celebrating the breadth of activities being undertaken by …
The High Sheriff for the County of Herefordshire, The Reverend Lady Lisvane organised a successful conference on Saturday 14th October 2017 highlighting loneliness, a significant issue affecting so many across Herefordshire. The event was co-organised by Lynda Wilcox of Herefordshire Association of Local Councils (HALC) and chaired by The Bishop of Hereford. Many representatives of local parish councils attended. Speakers from a range of local and national perspectives shared challenges an…
We warmly invite you to attend our: - ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Wednesday 1 November 2017 at The Courtyard, Edgar Street, Hereford Arrival & Registration from 1.30pm onwards AGM starts at 2pm followed by "Showcasing the success of hvoss members and partners" ----------------------------------------- Including Guest Speaker High Sheriff for the County of Herefordshire, The Reverend Lady Lisvane Followed by tea/coffee/delicious cake and an opportunity to network. All welcome. …
Ledbury Community Brass Band is proud to present its first Last Night of the Proms concert on Saturday 23 September 23 at 7.30pm in Ledbury’s Market Theatre. A couple of weeks after the end of this year’s BBC Proms we’re planning on giving Ledbury its own version of the traditional flag-waving repertoire, combined with brass band favourites – and this is an evening you CAN still get tickets for ! The band will be joined by soprano soloist Donna Porter as Britannia, and the evening will include…
SEX, drugs and rock and roll will be some of the subjects up for discussion at a summer programme for the county's youth this summer. No Wrong Door, a youth project led by us (hvoss) is providing activities and workshops which range from music jamming with DJ Hip Hop to learning about the impact that drugs have on the brain. There will also be yoga, coping strategies for anxiety, talking about healthy relationships, a chance to access the new sport of drift trikes, job interview techniques, un…
Have your say on their future use and management. Herefordshire Council has launched a consultation about the use of the county’s children’s centres, and is asking users for their views. The council is looking to reuse the buildings to address an increased need for nursery places and school use, although each centre has a different option relating to its locality. There are ten children’s centre buildings across Herefordshire which support children under the age of five and their families. C…
No Wrong Door, a hvoss project, has successfully bid for a second round of funding to provide a single access point and contact point for young people between the ages of 11 to 25 to access information support and guidance. Based in Blackfriars Street at the Robert Owen Academy the project brings together a range of specialist partner agencies and provides support on topics ranging from life skills, education, stress and anxiety, and sexual health and relationships, drug and alcohol cessation, …
The county’s Healthwatch service is changing A new Healthwatch Herefordshire social enterprise has been established. Healthwatch was established across the country as part of the Health and Social Care Act 2012. The service is delivered by independent social enterprise organisations on behalf of local councils and aims to represent the views of residents on local health and social care issues. From 2013, the contract to deliver Healthwatch Herefordshire was held by us here at Herefordshi…
A combination of 'passionate staff, exceptional service and thriving children' proved to be a winning formula for one Leominster nursery which achieved the best possible result in its latest Ofsted inspection. The 'outstanding' rating was given to Honey Bees Day Nursey, based at the Coningsby Centre, which caters for children aged three months to five years. The regulator also said the nursery – which was created in 2009 and is part of the non-profit making organisation Oaks Children’s Group –…
Community Wheels have thanked a Leominster business which has stepped in to house two minibuses after they were struck by vandals. The hvoss run service – which helps those unable to use public transport and without access to private transport of their own – discovered the damage to the two minibuses on two separate occasions after the were parked in an overflow car park at the town's leisure centre. Leominster Pest Control came to the rescue to allow Community Wheels to park the minibus…
hvoss is working in partnership with Fownhope Medical Centre to pilot a ‘social prescribing’ project. hvoss has recruited Sue Brazendale as a Community Link Officer for the project starting in March in the village of Fownhope offering a community referral service initially for an 18 month period. Frequently patients present at the GP practice looking for support for non-clinical needs for which medicine isn’t always the best or only answer with social solutions able to provide better outcomes. …
hvoss in partnership with Hereford City Council was extremely fortunate to arrange for Sandy Adirondack a freelance trainer and consultant in the voluntary sector since 1980 to come to Hereford to provide essential training for Trustees of local voluntary and community organisations. Sandy works primarily on governance issues with a wide range of charities, campaigns and voluntary and community-based organisations. She writes widely about voluntary sector governance and management. Her best kno…
Reece was referred to Talent Match by his parents, Talent Match is a charity funded by the Big Lottery that works with young people aged 18-24 years. Reece was a young man who had become lost and was not leaving the house, after a few weeks Reece was placed into the PDSA Fulfilment Centre as a volunteer. He has now been there for nearly 12 months and was recently put forward for the PDSA Volunteer of the Year Award. The PDSA has over 4800 volunteers and they received approximately 800 nominat…
Herefordshire Council put on their website on Thursday 18 January (with no prior warning to anyone affected) that they are making major cuts to services for Carers for the 2017/2018 year that begins on 1 April 2017. The effect of this for Herefordshire Carers Support is that the Council intends to cut their funding by half from £275,000 to £137,000 for the coming year. And worse, they say future years will see even more reductions, with the Council expecting Carers to replace this support w…
Whatever your stage of life, whether you are moving into the world of work from the education system or after raising a family, taking a break or retiring from the daily commute, volunteering can provide you with an additional 'feel good' factor. Most of us enjoy and feel good when we are useful and so volunteering will support and reinforce that. It is also a way to acquire new skills and, importantly if you are looking for paid work too, experience in an area of life that you may wish to devel…
The Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) and the Department for work and Pensions (DWP) have launched a consultation of the future funding of supported housing. The consultation will run for 12 weeks from 21 November 2016 until 13 February 2017. Background On 15 September the Government announced a new approach to funding housing costs for supported housing from April 2019. The Government confirmed that it will defer the application of the Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rate…
Stretton Sugwas has lost two pubs, one shop and its Post Office over the years, yet a massive £300,000 Big Lottery award towards revamping the village hall shows that community spirit is most definitely alive and kicking. Part of a major £2.2 million payout to 89 projects across the West Midlands, this week’s announcement has been greeted with delight among the village’s 550-strong population, and the good news is certain to spread to others over a 20-mile radius who regularly meet at the 83-ye…
hvoss has stepped in to provide a much needed bus service following the withdrawal of subsidy for the 427 service from Bodenham to Leominster. Working in partnership with Leominster Town Council, Humber, Ford and Stoke Prior Group Parish Council and Bodenham Parish Council, hvoss, operating under its’ transport brand Community Wheels, will commence the service on 2nd September on Fridays only initially, but should demand increase then extra services may be introduced in the future. Passengers…
Charities and community groups in Hereford are being urged to register for a new scheme which will see unsold food at a city supermarket become meals for vulnerable people across the area. As part of its ongoing pledge to cut food waste, Tesco’s Community Food Connection programme with FareShare FoodCloud recruits and supports charities and community groups. It links them to Tesco stores via an innovative app that allows store teams to alert them to surplus unsold food items available at the end…
Alzheimer's Society are so proud to finally reveal the video that they made with the Rural Media Company and students from the Hereford College of Arts about the Leominster Meeting Centre. The Meeting Centre is a collaborative effort from Alzheimer's Society with support from the University of Worcester and Hereford County Council. It offers support for people with dementia as well as carers. https://www.facebook.com/AlzheimersSocietyWestMidlands/videos/vb.217373208279266/1401502489866326/?type=…
MILLIONS of viewers tuned in to an hour’s worth of prime time TV coming from the heart of Herefordshire. Cherry-picked from a long list of possible locations all over the UK, Weobley hosted the BBC’s programme The One Show. Also featured in the show was a couple of our Community Wheels volunteer drivers talking about the service we provide within the area. Click here for the link http://bbc.in/2a5dt31 to the One Show, our Community Wheels drivers feature at around 14 minutes into the show. Happy…
hvoss was lucky enough to be one of the successful organisations awarded funding through the Department for Transport community transport minibus fund to purchase a minibus for our Community Wheels project based in Leominster. Over 300 local charities and community groups across the country have benefited from the £25m Government fund. Last week Nigel Povey, Business Development Manager from Minibus Options handed over the keys of a brand new 16 seater minibus to Linda Jones, our Community Whee…