FUndign and Development Plan 2009-10

Funding andDevelopmentTeam

Annual PlanAPRIL 2009TO MARCH 2010

Funding and Development Team Annual Plan April 2009 to March 2010


Contents

Page

Bolton CVS - Our General Aims 4

Summary 5

Funding and DevelopmentTeam Structure 6

OurWork 2009-10 / Lifecycle of a Group 7

Support Available from the Funding and DevelopmentTeam 8

Future Focus 10

Overall Aim & Output 11

Funding & DevelopmentTeam Outcomes 12

Development Priorities April 2009 to March 2010 14

BIG Bolton Fund Grant Delivery 2008/9 19

African Partnerships Event 20

Funding and DevelopmentTeam Away Day 15th June 2009 Initial Report 30


Bolton CVSBolton CVS was established in February 1990 and is a registered charity and acompany limited by guarantee. Bolton CVS currently has a membership of over 300voluntary and community groups and is in regular contact with over 1,000 localgroups through its bi-monthly newsletter, Jumbo, and a range of networks andforums.

Bolton CVS is managed by an Executive Committee which consists of nine directlyelected representatives of member groups, the Honorary Treasurer, a representativeof Bolton MBC and up to three co-opted members.There is also a sub-committeeresponsible for Human Resources.

Bolton CVS is annually funded by Bolton Metropolitan Borough Council to supportthe core work of Bolton CVS. CVS also receives funding from a range of fundingsources including BMBC Adult Services, Neighbourhood Renewal, the Big LotteryFund, East Bolton Regeneration and Bolton PCT.

Our general aims are:

• To promote voluntary action throughout the borough of Bolton in orderto meet the needs of the community;

• To provide information, advice, training and support to local voluntary andcommunity groups;

• To assist new voluntary and community groups to set up and supportexisting groups to develop and expand;

• To encourage voluntary and community groups to make their voices heardoutside their own organisation and provide a channel of communication;

• To actively engage in partnership working for the benefit of voluntary andcommunity groups and the borough as a whole

In order to meet our aims, Bolton CVS delivers a number of services,activities and projects across key teams. One of the key teams deliveringagainst our organisational aims is the Funding and Development Team.


SummaryThe Funding and Development Team has undergone a period of continualdevelopment and change in 2008/9. In 2008 Bolton CVS made a commitment todeveloping and implementing an outcome focussed approach to all of the workacross the whole organisation.The Funding and Development Team have taken a leadon this work, investing heavily in training in outcomes for the entire staff body acrossCVS and developing the unique position Outcomes Champion for the North Westwho is leading support for groups in developing their own outcomes and is linkedinto the Charities Evaluation Service Outcomes Project.

As a direct result of this investment and commitment the Funding and DevelopmentTeam Plan for 2009/10 is heavily focussed on outcomes, evaluation, development andimprovement.This focus crosses our entire range of services to local voluntary andcommunity groups in Bolton, as demonstrated by delivery in 2008/09 of:

• Six issues of the information packed newsletter,‘Jumbo’, each with a circulation ofover 1,500 copies.

• 494 groups receiving support in 903 sessions of support and advice from FundingAdvice Sessions

• 59 one-to-one sessions with organisations to look at their governance andprovide information, support and advice in developing management committees,enabling the groups to deliver their services more effectively

• Training and advice to help organisations to develop their skills in looking forfunding sources and how to apply for funding

• Advice and support was provided to 58 organisations to enable them toeffectively apply for Creating cleaner Greener Communities funding

• The Sustainable Groups Project has worked with 56 groups focused mainly ongroup development issues including funding advice and support to completefunding applications; help with establishing aims and writing constitutions;developing management committee skills; supporting groups to manage theirmeetings effectively; book keeping skills and putting financial systems in place;developing publicity skills; support to find appropriate venues; developing longterm plans with groups to help them become more sustainable; providinginformation on appropriate policies (including health and safety, risk assessment,insurance, child protection, and payment of volunteers’ expenses) and workingwith groups on their legal/charitable status.

Funding and DevelopmentTeam Structure


• Bolton CVS has administered a wide range of grants to voluntary and communitygroups working in Bolton (full schedule in appendix 1).A total of 263 grants havebeen successfully administered worth £360,759.66

• 100% of the groups receiving grants received support from the grants teambefore, during and after the grant process.This work involved following up groupswho received grants administered by Bolton CVS to ensure we receivedinformation about how the money had been spent and what the outcomes andbenefits were for people in Bolton.

The Funding and Development team offers support, advice, information and trainingto a broad range of organisations in Bolton at any stage of their development cycle -

FADCo-ordinator

GrantsCo-ordinator

BBFEndowmentWorker

GCGC &Outcomes

DevelopmentCo-ordinator

GrantsAdminWorker

GrantSupportWorker

GrantSupportWorker(9 monthfixed term)

Children’sWorkforceDevelopmentWorker

Fundingand

GovernanceAdviceWorker

InformationCommunication

Worker

Key:

RedText = Existing PostGreenText = Fixed Term Post to cover for absences within teamGreyText = New Posts Required external funding to be raised during 2009/10


OurWork 2009/10The BIG Bolton Fund will be delivering a range of 15 grants through our grantsprogramme in 2009/10.We will continue to offer funding advice, pre-panelassessments on funding bids and support with financial management and monitoringto all applicant groups.

The Funding and Development team will also continue to offer infrastructuresupport, advice, information and training to a broad range of organisations in Boltonat any stage of their development cycle (see diagram) - Building the capacity ofgroups in order to support a stronger Third Sector in Bolton.

deliveringdeveloping

reviewing

wantsto getinvolved

ideafor agroup informal

group

retire

legal entity/formal group establishing

sharelearning/

skillsJoin/startnew

group

dissolving

GROUP

LIFE CYCLE OF A GROUPThe Funding and Development team at Bolton CV can help your group at any stage with atailored package of one to one advice, support, information and training.We may also beable to offer specialised consultancy services to help your group with a specific issue.

Bolton Community Network and Volunteer Centre can offer supportto individuals who want to be more involved in their community,neighbourhood and local democracy.


Specialist Support & Consultancy

Setting Up

Developing Vision

Volunteering

Bank Accounts

Developing Aims

Legal Status

Developing Mission

Roles and Responsibilities

Legislation

Finance

Funding

Policy Development

Procedures

Networks & Partnerships

CVS Membership

Governance

Insurance

Health and Safety

Safeguarding Vulnerable AdultsSafeguarding Children and Young Adults

Social EnterprisesSustainability

Trading

Building Management

Human Resources

Employing Staff

Planning

Tendering

Procurement

How does it all work?

Outcomes

Quality Standards

Representation

Participating in Local democracy

How to get involved

Commissioning

Dissolving a charity/company

The Funding and DevelopmentTeam at Bolton CVS can help your

group at any stage of developmentwith a tailored package of support,information, advice, training andfunding. We may also be able to

offer specialist consultancy supportto help with specific issues.

Core Support (in red) is essential to thesuccess of all organisations

All support strengthensthe sector

Support available from the Fundingand DevelopmentTeam


Support available from the Fundingand DevelopmentTeamIn 2008/9 demand for our services increased by approximately 40%.; we currentlyhave a 6-8 week waiting list for Funding Advice Sessions and a 4 week waiting list foradvice on setting up and constitutions.

Waiting time across all support services with the sloe exception of informationprovision is anticipated to continue increasing in 2009/10.

We will emphasise support around the core ‘spokes’of an effective group (seediagram) and continue to provide further support to increase the effectiveness oflocal organisations to deliver their own services.

The Funding and Development Team work with emerging communities continues tobe successful with a partnership event being held in February 2009.The report ofthis event is in appendix 2 of this document and has led to the development of ajoint project being developed between Bolton CVS and Bolton Solidarity CommunityAssociation.


Future FocusFunding for our development activities with emerging groups comes to an end inMarch 2010 and this, alongside increased demand for services means that fundraisingfor the team will be a priority in 2009/10.

Planning is in place for a strategic funding bid to the Equalities and Human RightsCommittee as well as a further bid to BIG lottery under their reaching communitiesprogramme. A range of other funding options for a sustainable future will also beconsidered.

Recognising the need for changes to be implemented in order to meet ourdeveloping commitment to outcomes we held an internal review and quality planningday. This activity was an opportunity for us to reflect on some of the key externaland internal drivers affecting our team, identify our strengths and weaknesses (seediagram) and commit to key actions for change.

The Initial report of this session is in appendix 3.

Every action planned for 2009/10 is outcomes focussed and can be clearly evidencedfor the dual purposes of review and reporting.

Our outcomes framework for the team is as follows:

0

5

10

15

20

Organisational Culture

Financial ManagementSkills for Sustainability

Outcomes & Quality

Delivery of Service

Self Determination

Funding Base

Planning

Funding and Development TeamSustainability Self Assessment


Funding & DevelopmentTeam - Overall Aim

Funding & DevelopmentTeam - Outputs

To increase the capacity ofVoluntary and CommunityOrganisations (VCOs) to deliver services in

SpecificAims

To improveinfrastructure ofVCOs in Bolton

To improve relationshipwith other externalorganisations/bodies

To enable VCOs toeffectively identify/access

and apply for funding

ObjectivesTo provide a

comprehensiverange of funding

supportservices

Objectives Output Output Indicators

To provide acomprehensive range offunding support services

To provide one to onedevelopment support

To network/liaise withrelevant bodies

To provide information

To network/liaise with

relevant bodies

To deliver arange of local

grants

To provideinformation

To provide oneto one

developmentsupport

To create anoutcome-focussedapproach

across the VCS

To providespecialisttraining

• One to one funding advice support

• Funding Forum

• Training ie filling in forms

• Written information ie grant flyers,funding advice pack

• Resources ie funding ref library

• Events and roadshows

• Grants administration

• Group development sessions

• Training

• Signposting

• Ad-hoc email and telephone enquiries

• Development of relationship withstatutory bodies

• Development of relationship with allfunders

• Development of relationship with thirdsector organisations

• Development of relationship with otherBolton CVS projects

• Jumbo

• Leaflets

• Website

• Library

• Events

• Forum updates

• Guidance

• Number of groups advised

• Number of return visits

• Number of groups attending forum

• Number of groups attending training

• Number of groups using library

• Number of grants available

• Number of grant applications submitted

• Number of successful applications

• Number of sessions

• Content of training

• Number of evaluation forms sent out and returned

• Level of user satisfaction

• Extent of support received

• Number of enquiries received

• Types of support issues

• Number of funders FAD Team engages with

• Partnerships developed with statutory organisations

• Joint working activities with other Bolton CVS projects

• Number and type of networking/liaison activities

• Frequency of activities

• Number of recipients of Jumbo

• Number of leaflets requested and sent out

• Types of information requested

• Level of information distributed

• Number of hits on website

• Number of visits to library

• Number of events and attendees

• Number of forums and attendees


Objectives Output Output Indicators

To create outcomes-focussed approach acrossVCS

To provide specialisttraining

Specific Outcomes Outcome Indicators NAVCA Ref MethodologyAims

1.To improve 1. Effective governance la Effective systems in 1.1 Membership Survey;the mechanisms in place observation; 1-2-1 evidenceinfrastructure placeof VCOs in 2a Numerical strength of 2.2 Membership Survey; service userBolton 2.The management management committees information, 1-2-1 evidence

committees ofVCOs have 2b Number of 1.2 Self assessment; memberimproved management committees survey; 1-2-1 evidence; servicemanagement skills with fully functioning user feedback

officers3. Increased capacity tomeet their own and 3a Number of VCOs with 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, Network attendance;aims and deliver engaged membership 2.4 membership surveytheir service

3b Number of groups 2.5 VC figures; member survey4.VCOs will have initiated recruiting new membersan outcomes- and volunteersfocused approachfor their 3c Number of groups with 2.5 1-2-1 & specialist supportorganisation plans in place to enable evidence; member surveythem to be sustainable.

5.VCOs have adoptedprocedures and 4a Number of groups that Attendence sheetspolicies that inform have attended outcomespractice training

4b Number of groups that Evidence from training;have created an outcomes membership survey; 1-2-1triangle evidence

5a Increased use of Evidence from training;policies and procedures membership survey; 1-2-1evidence

2.To improve 1.VCOs have improved la Feedback from 1.4, 3.2, 4.1, Funder/partner surveyrelationship relationship with funders/satisfaction 4.5, 5.1with other external bodies andexternal funders lb Number of contacts Team evidenceorganisations with fundersbodies 2.VCOs have increasedengagement with 2a Number of groups 2.1, 3.1, 3.2, Forum sign in sheetsmulti-agency attending forums/area 3.3, 4.1, 4.5,projects and forums 5.1, 5.2activities

3. Funders have increased 3a Increased number of 1.4 BBF programmeconfidence to funding streams availableengage with third sector

3b Continuation of 1.4, 3.3, 4.5 BBF Proqrammeexisting funding streams

• Delivery of training sessions andworkshops

• Grants outcomes forms (monitoring)

• One to one support from specialistconsultants

• Training in specialist subjects

• Number of groups receiving training and workshops• Number of groups requesting information about outcomes

focused approach• Number of groups adopting outcomes focused approach• Number of monitoring returns

• Number of groups benefited• Range of areas of support ie book-keeping, strategic

planning

Funding & DevelopmentTeam OutcomesTo increase the capacity of Voluntary and Community Organisations (VCOS) to deliver services in Bolton.


Specific Outcomes Outcome Indicators NAVCA Ref MethodologyAims

4. Increased influence on 4a Consistency of Membership survey; 1-2-1quality of work of information and advice spot checksother agenciesworking with VCOs 4b Development of a Sign up sheets; evaluations

professional network

5.VCOs have increased 5a Number of funders 2.4, 4.5, 5.3 External Executive Fundingconfidence to engage in offering commissioning Group; funder & partner surveycommissioning tenders to VCOs

3.To enable 1. Increased effectiveness la & 3a Level of success 2.3, 2.4 Grants review; member survey;vcos to at fundraising rate to funders SU feedbackeffectivelyidentify/access 2. Increased knowledge lb & 3b Level of 2.1, 2.2, 2.4 1-2-1 evidence; caseloadand apply for of sources of involvement of meetings; SU feedback; memberfunding funding development workers survey

3. Increased skills and lc & 3c Level of skills in 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, SU feedback; observation;confidence in fundraising 3.1 member survey; grants reviewsuccessfullyapplying for 2a & 3d Number of Sign up & evaluationsfunding. groups attending funding

advice sessions

4. Stronger relationships 3e Level of applications 1.4, 2.4, 3.2, BBF Programmebetween funders submitted 3.1, 3.2, 4.4,and groups to 4.5secure funding 3f Range of grants 2.2 Grants review; member survey;

applied for SU feedback

5. Improved/increased 3g Reduction in number 2.4 BBF programmefinancial of groups needingaccountability intervention before panel

4a Level of contact with BBF programmefunder

5a Number of groups Monitoring reports;achieving green status traffic light systemwithin 12 months

5b Good accounting Observation;systems monitoring reports;

traffic light system


Development PrioritiesApril 2009 to March 2010

• To increase the Funding and Development Team capacity and develop a threeyear funding strategy to ensure security of posts

• To promote the work of the Funding and Development Team & Bolton CVS as awhole

• To improve communication, collaboration and networking amongst local VCSgroups through co-working with Bolton Community Network

• To develop improved grants schemes, promoting the BIG Bolton Fund andidentifying opportunities for new funds to distribute

• To expand one to one & funding & specialist support available to groups byidentifying gaps in provision and developing strategic approach to meetingidentified needs

• To continue the development of a quality standards framework for the team andimplement outcomes monitoring.


KeyArea SpecificTasks Deadline Target Outcome

The Big Bolton Fund Grants Delivery As a result of CVS activitythe localThird Sector.-

- knows where and whenappropriate funding isavailable

- has improved financialaccountability

- has increased confidenceto apply to a range of sources

- has better levels ofoutcome information andreports this to funders

- Benefits from workingagreements, protocols and/orcompacts with statutory andother outside bodies

- has a better understandingof how to develop anoutcomes focussed approach

- has improved accountabilityfor decision making

- has increased effectivenessat fundraising

- has improved financialaccountability

• Grant review planning• Form and guidance review• Deadlines set for the year• Review traffic light system• Promote grants to local

groups• Promote grants to group

workers

• Agree finances with funders• Agree development time

with funders• Agree criteria and process

with funders• Keep funders informed of

grants delivered via theirfund

• Identify new funds todeliver

• Funder survey annually

• Meet contractualrequirements

• Review process for equityand consistency

• Attend Assessment Panels• Random pre-panel

assessment checks• Oversee VGA Training &

Development

• Support groups to submithigh quality applications

• Support groups to achievegreen on traffic lightmonitoring system

July’09May’09April ‘09March ‘10March ‘09

As required

March ‘09

quarterly

quarterly

quarterlyRandomMarch ‘09March ‘09

March ‘09

quarterly

AnnualBi Monthly

Per Fund

Annual

Sign off onquarterlyReports

1 per quarter5 per month

70% ofapplicantgroups50%applicantsgreen within12 months

Development ofThe BIG Bolton Fund

Negotiation withFunders

Quality Control

Group Work



Liaison with partner • Participate in External Monthly Bi monthly - has stronger relationshipsagencies to promote Funding Executive Group Launch in June with local funderseffective workrelationships • Work with Strategic Funding June ‘09 - has increased knowledge of

Team to set up and run group sources of fundingworkers multi agency group 1 per quarter

- Has its views sought by key• Engage with other local external agencies at allfunders eg Bolton Council and May ’09 stages of aBolton Community Homes consultation process

• Identify opportunities for local - Has access to3rd sector organisations to appropriate and sufficientinfluence local decision information to enable it tomaking develop its own views about

key issues andrespond to consultation

BBF Endowment Challenge

• Link with the ideas group to Monthly As stated - has access to moremove the endowment sustainable sources of localchallenge forward funding

• Work to SMART Action Plan Mar’09with support from CFN & CDF

• Recruit fundraising consultant March ‘09to move match challengeforwards

GroupWork

Direct Group Work • Meet contractual quarterly quarterly - has effective governancerequirements from funders reporting mechanisms in place

• Undertake needs analysis At first As stated - has appropriate policieswith individual groups contact and procedures

• Review and respond to March ‘09 As stated - Involves a range ofchanging needs As required 2 per month individuals in the

identification• Identify and meet one-to-one of needs and solutions,complex needs including the VCO’s role

in addressing needs, where• Engage local 3rd Sector in appropriateconsultation about needs



Communication with • Maintain close workingCommunity Network relationship with CNand external partners • Share information and data Shared system

collection systems March ‘09 in place• Develop joint workingpractices• Work with Strategic Funding June ‘09 Launch in JuneTeam to set up and run group ‘09workers multi aqency group

Quality Control relating • Ensure consistent forms used June ‘09 As statedto Development work across team

• Link data collection to March ‘09 As statedoutcomes & quality standards• Oversee consultation with July 2009 As statedgroups on theirdevelopment needs

To promote the services • Deliver briefings about March ‘09 1 per monthavailable from CVS services available

• Identify and take advantage March ‘09 1 per monthof opportunities to promoteCVS services

Quality Standards

To co-ordinate our • Ensure that FAD Team March ‘09team contribution outcomes are linked to theto Bolton CVS quality NAVCA quality standardsstandards

• Implement regular review ofservices

• Work with local 3rd sectorto develop quality focussedworking

- has improved relationshipswith other organisations- Has increased influence ondecision making that affectsthem- Reviews services inresponse to info aboutchanging or emerging needs

- have initiated an outcomesfocussed approach to theirwork- Has increased knowledgeof how to use quality toolsand techniques to improveperformance- have improvedmanagement skills

- have increased confidenceto engage e.g. incommissioning- Has access to appropriateand sufficient information toenable it to develop its ownviews about key issues andrespond to consultation

- Has increased knowledgeof how to

use quality tools andtechniques to improveperformance



Team Planning

To ensure the Funding • To develop an annual team Nov ‘09and Development Team action planhas a planned approach • To develop individual work July ‘09to working plans linked to annual plan,

outcomes and other staffwork plans

To increase the Funding • Develop a three year funding August ‘09 As statedand Development Team strategycapacity • Develop funding bids to a Sept ‘09 Big Lottery

range of funders• To ensure that each member March ‘09 As statedof the team has opportunitiesfor personal & professionaldevelopment

Collaboration

Communication with • Maintain close working March ‘09Community Network relationship with CNand external partners • Share information and data As stated

collection systems• Develop joint working June ‘09 As statedpractices across local agencies

Ensure joint working • Work with Strategic Funding March ‘09 As statedopportunities are Team to set up multi agencyexplored group

• Identify joint working March ‘09 As statedopportunities at local, regionaland national levels

Training

To develop training • Undertake training needs June ‘09 Trainingopportunities for staff analysis of all staff programand local groups

• CWD analysis for CYP groups May ‘09 2 per quarter

• Develop and deliver March ‘09specialist training for groups intoa programme for 2008/09

- Reviews its services inresponse toinformation about changingor emerging needs

- Has more sustainableservices from Bolton CVS

- Makes better use of scarceresources by sharing goodpractice, expertise and/orequipment, premises, etc,where possible

- is more actively involvedin the development andoperation of effectiveworking partnerships

- Works morecollaboratively and whererelevant, forms partnerships/consortia to addressparticular needs or tasks

- Has increased knowledgeof current local and nationaldevelopments affecting itswork

- Is more actively involved inthe development andoperation of effectiveworking partnerships

- Has increased knowledge,skills and qualifications inworkforce

- Has increased knowledgeof current local and nationaldevelopments affecting itswork

-Has increased knowledge ofLIO and other availableinfrastructure support


No. ofSuccessful Grants Total Administered

Breaks for Carers Grants Funded by Adult Services Bolton Council

Round 18 15 £14,345.00

Round 19 10 £7,170.00

Total All Rounds: 25 £21,515.00

Health for Bolton Grants Funded by Bolton Primary Care Trust

07/08 Round 2 27 £12,766.25

08/09 Round 1 14 £6,505.00

08/09 Round 2 21 £18,409.05

Total All Rounds 62 £37,680.30

Creating Cleaner Greener Communities GrantsFunded by European Funding Partnership and Safer Stronger Communities Fund

Round 1 & 2 6 £10,863.88

Round 3 & 4 10 £30,905.52

Round 5 5 £17,398.35

Round 6 & 7 2 £2,691.21


Bolton Vision Grants Funded by Neighbourhood Renewal Fund, Farnworth Neighbourhood Management andGreat Lever Neighbourhood Management

Round 1 35 £76,004.64

Round 2 23 £18,003.00

Round 3 15 £12,668.68

Round 4 12 £9,953.69


Grassroots Grants Funded by the Office of the Third Sector in Partnership with Community DevelopmentFoundation

Round 1 26 £48,525.00

Round 2 31 £57,073.00

Round 3 11 £17,477.39


Total £360,759.66

Appendix 1

BIG Bolton Fund Grant Delivery 2008/9


African Partnerships Event

Held on 28th February 2009 atThe Hub,Bold Street, Bolton

IntroductionFor the past 3 years, the Sustainable Groups Project managed by Bolton CVS hasworked to identify and provide support to the many hard to reach and new andemerging groups in Bolton. During the last 18 months, we have seen a significantincrease in the number of African groups setting up and becoming formallyconstituted community groups.The groups we have supported have includedcommunities from Sudan, Somalia,The Congo, Mauritania, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Zimbabweand Kenya.

Although many of these groups share aims in terms of the activities they provide totheir members, they also have unique identities and cultural traditions. Some of thegroups are well established in Bolton and are experienced for example, in securingfunding for and running a range of activities and services for their members. Othergroups are very new and have few or no resources but may have skills andknowledge around issues like immigration, translation and creative arts.

With this is mind we decided to plan an event with the aim of: a) identifying whatresources, skills and knowledge existed amongst African groups; b) what groupsneeded in order to develop; and c) to explore the opportunities for collaboration inorder to strengthen the capacity of groups.

The idea for the event was also discussed at the GMVSS Diversity Steering Group ofwhich Bolton CVS is a member.The Steering Group felt that the event wassomething they too could support and offered to provide funding to organise andrun the day.


PlanningAs part of the preparation for the event, we identified a number of key partners whowere also working with African communities.These partners formed the steeringgroup for the event and were involved in the planning and decision making.Theorganisations involved in the steering group were :

• Bolton Solidarity Community Association (BSCA)

• Refugee Action Bolton Gateway Project

• Refugee Action Manchester

• Bolton Racial Equality Council (BREC)

• Bolton New Unity Centre

• African Communities Association of Bolton (ACAB)

• Health and Care Together

• Bolton Community Network

• Bolton CVS

Several planning meetings were held to discuss issues including how we could meetour overall aims, suitable dates and times, potential venues, format for the day,budgets, promotion, targeting of the event to groups, potential speakers andinterpreting needs.

It was felt that it would be beneficial to invite at least one speaker from outside ofBolton in order to highlight how other areas had developed partnerships andpractice. Michael Carroll (Bolton Community Network) and Helen Tomlinson(Bolton CVS) also presented the idea for a workshop exercise using a card game asa method of identifying skills, knowledge and resources within groups.

It was agreed that the workshop would be facilitated by members of the steeringgroup as they had an understanding of the exercise and of the needs of many of thegroups that were to be invited.

After producing posters and information about the event, (please see Appendix 1) allpartners took responsibility for promoting it amongst the communities they wereworking with.A Community Network Ambassador was also involved in promotingthe event amongst the more informal church groups that she was in contact with.Other methods of promotion included : JUMBO magazine, word of mouth, email,direct mail outs and promotion within other networks, eg. Forum meetings.

A French speaking interpreter was arranged for Francophone groups along with aSwaheli interpreter.A volunteer French speaker was also recruited through theBolton Volunteer Centre.

The format for the day was discussed and 2 speakers were arranged and a workshopactivity designed.


The EventThe event was held at The Hub in Bolton, making use of the whole ground floor sothat people had opportunity to move around, meet each other and talk.A total of 18groups were represented including support organisations (please see appendix 2 forlist of attendees).

The programme for the day was split into 3 parts :

Part 1 : Introduction and SpeakersPart 2 :WorkshopsPart 3 : Feedback

Part 1The introduction, background and aims for the day were presented by HelenTomlinson, Community Groups Support Worker from Bolton CVS.

The first speaker was Mr. Sheekh from the United Somali Bravanese Community(USBC) in Manchester who gave a presentation about the setting up of the UnitedSomali Community Association. He talked about the history of the Association, theprocess of linking with other organisations and some of the barriers they had faced.He talked about the benefits that working together had brought not only to eachgroup involved but also collectively.

The second speakers were Mandy Jelenje and Emery Pacifique from BREC in Boltonwho gave a detailed presentation on the planning for the Black History Month eventin 2008.The event involved several partner organisations including communitygroups,African businesses, BRASS and Bolton University International Society.Theyhighlighted the importance of having clear aims, commitment and effectivecommunication between committee members and the importance of equalityamongst partners.They concluded the presentation by highlighting the challenges forthe future including sustaining partnerships.

Part 2Following the presentations, participants were invited to split into workshops.Therewere 4 workshops, all using the same exercise. Each workshop had a facilitator andnote taker to record any key points that came out of discussions. Participants wereencouraged to join workshops with people they didn’t know to enable them to get abetter overview of each other’s work. One group with a French interpreter wasmade available for Francophone groups.

In the workshops, groups were asked to consider :

a) What resources we already haveWhat resources we could sharePotential barriers to sharing Solutions


b) What resources we needTop 3 prioritiesBarriers to getting these resourcesSolutions

c) What skills and knowledge we haveWhat skills and knowledge we could sharePotential barriers to sharingSolutions

d) What skills and knowledge we needTop 3 prioritiesBarriers to getting skills and knowledgeSolutions

The exercise was done using cards with pictures to accompany text, eg. computer,printer, website, transport, public speaking, youth work, ESOL, translation, etc.Facilitators and note takers supported participants in each group to consider thequestions being asked in the exercise and invited them to stick the cards that wererelevant to their group under appropriate columns on large pre-prepared sheets ofpaper.

Following the workshops, participants were invited to circulate around the differentworkshops to look at what each group had identified and to discuss with facilitatorsany key issues or potential matches for needs. (Please see appendix 3 for workshopfeedback).

Part 3After the workshops, Michael Carroll from Community Network invited feedbackon the workshop including any learning or potential for development of partnerships.

Groups identified several priority needs including :FundingSomewhere to meet/venuesSupport with immigration issuesSupport around safeguarding and CRB checks

Issues identified in discussion:

• It was recognised that many people had skills and knowledge, but many of theirqualifications were not recognised in the UK as they were gained in othercountries

• Lack of resources in many groups


• Securing funding

• Developing policies, eg. Health and Safety and Child Protection

• Obtaining CRB checks

• Obtaining appropriate insurance

• Time constraints

• Groups are often given conflicting advice particularly around immigration issuesand find it difficult to keep up to date with new legislation

Solutions identified in discussion:

• Training : First Aid and Food Hygiene training is available free at the New UnityCentre.The Red Cross offer free First Aid training. Children and Young People’sWorkforce Development training.

• Develop links with the Volunteer Centre who have volunteers with languageskills and may be able to support groups with translation/interpreting.

• Use of existing networks to share/promote/gather information, eg. RefugeeForum,Third Sector Forum, Funding Forum,Volunteer Forum, Health and CareForum.

• BAND offer CRB checks free to volunteers

• Rent-a-Desks available at the Hub.These are rented out to groups who arelooking to develop but need an office space – computer and phone are included.

• A central point where groups can access up-to-date information – CVS has aresource library which contains lots of useful information including resources ongroup development, funding and community work.

• Matching/exchanging skills – larger groups ‘mentoring’ smaller groups.

• It would be helpful to have a Community Network Ambassador from the Africancommunity with language skills who could support some of the new andemerging groups.

• Use groups who have specialisms – don’t try to do everything.

Closing remarks were made by Ibrahim Ismail from BSCA who summarised the keypoints from the day and thanked everyone for participating.A Libyan lunch followed.


Summary of Findings fromWorkshop Exercise(Please seeAppendix 3 for spreadsheet)

ResourcesMany groups have resources, however due to practicalities, eg. items based in offices,insurance and access issues, many groups felt it would be impractical to share themwith other groups. It was also highlighted that due to lack of information, manygroups did not know what resources other groups may have to offer.

There were however, a number of resources identified that groups could potentiallyshare. For example, 4 groups had sports equipments and 3 had musical instrumentsthat they were able to share with others.This was a potential match for 4 differentgroups who identified a need for both sports equipment and musical instruments.

Other themes identified in the exercise included the need for IT equipment (4groups), volunteers (2 groups), a venue (5 groups) and a sewing machine (6 groups).

The major barriers to obtaining resources were a) funding, with the majority ofgroups stating this during the exercise; b) disabled access venue and c) time.

There were however a number of solutions identified :

• Groups could have booking systems whereby they can loan items.

• Charge deposits to ensure items are returned.

• Advertise their resources – either offers or needs – in JUMBO and at theRefugee Forum.

• Develop a matching system between groups.

Skills and KnowledgeMany participants had skills, knowledge and experience in a number of differentfields.These included : organising events; dancing and singing, teaching and trainingskills, experience of dealing with immigration issues, arts and crafts skills, ITknowledge, playing musical instruments, written English and providing informationand advice.The most common skill that participants had was interpreting with thefollowing languages identified : Somali, French,Arabic, English,Amharic,Tigri andOromo.

There were significantly fewer skills and knowledge needs compared to resourceneeds.Those identified were : public speaking skills (2 groups); immigrationknowledge (1 group); arts and crafts skills (2 groups); book keeping skills (3 groups)and IT training (2 groups).The main need was for First Aid training (5 groups with 1group this being their first priority).


A number of issues were identified as barriers to sharing skills and knowledge.Thesewere :

• Lack of venue to meet with other groups

• Qualifications not recognised in this country

• Time

• Funding to develop projects

• Communication issues

• Groups not aware what skills exist within other groups

Potential solutions to these barriers included :Developing a skills and knowledge ‘exchange’Use JUMBO to advertise needs and ‘skill offers’Peer learning networkMore work with volunteers with language skills

The key barrier to groups developing their skills and knowledge was again fundingalong with lack of information. Other issues identified were:

• Access to training

• Motivation

• Inadequate translated information

A number of potential solutions were identified :Training available from Red Cross,CVS, Refugee Action, MRSN, NUC and BSCA. Funding advice available from CVS.

In addition to the skills and knowledge cards used in the exercise, a number ofparticipants highlighted other areas where support was needed.These were :

• Development of leadership skills

• Knowledge of and involvement in existing networks

• Safeguarding and Child Protection issues including how to obtain CRB checks

• Development of group policies

Our learning and recommendations for future eventsA full day would have been better, it was felt that “there was too much informationand too little time.”

More time needed to be allocated to the workshops to enable the task to becompleted by everyone and for discussion time.

Need to ensure that events start on time so that people with child care and otherpersonal responsibilities do not have added time pressures.

Need to canvass attendees in advance regarding need for an interpreter.

More time for informal networking.


Resources used in workshops and handouts could be prepared bilingually (ie. Englishand French) in order to save time translating.

More interpreters were needed to cope with the amount and level of informationdiscussed.

It would have been helpful to have all the speaker’s presentations in advance so thatthe interpreter could prepare beforehand.

Speakers and facilitators needed to pause more in order for the information to beinterpreted.

It was felt that another event or day would be needed in order to discuss findingsand explore opportunities for collaborative working further.

ConclusionThere was a general feeling amongst participants that the day had been beneficial andvery enjoyable. People commented that having the opportunity to network and learnabout each other’s work was very important. It provided the time to explore ways inwhich groups could work collaboratively and discuss opportunities for sharing oftenscarce resources. It was felt that the day also highlighted the wealth of knowledgeand skills within communities and that groups would benefit from another event todiscuss ways of identifying and sharing this information.

It was agreed that there was a need for another event to present the findings fromthe day and to look at options for moving forward with ideas. Helen and Michaelwould prepare a written report from the day and send this out to all participants.


Appendix 2

Promotional flyer and invitation to the event

African Groups…Share and be Stronger!

You are invited to a‘Working in Partnership Event’ at

The Bolton Hub, Bold Street, Bolton, BL1 1LSSaturday 28th February 2009

9.30 am until 2.30 pm

• Come along and tell others about what your group does.

• Find out how you can share resources, skills, knowledge and expertisewith other groups in order to make your organisations stronger.

• Come and hear about how groups have successfully worked inpartnership with others.

• Find out how your group can benefit from services already on offer inBolton.

Free lunch at 1.30 pm.

French Interpreter will be available.Limited to any four members of your group.

If your group would like to attend this event pleasecontact HelenTomlinson on telephone 01204 546017 or

Email: [email protected]

This event is being organised in Partnership with:Refugee Action, African Community Association of Bolton (ACAB),

Bolton Solidarity Community Association (BSCA), New Unity Centre,Bolton Racial Equality Council (BREC)

Bolton Community Network andBolton Community and Voluntary Services (CVS).

Kindly funded by:Greater ManchesterVoluntary Sector Support


Appendix 2

List of groups represented:

Congolese Community AssociationNew Eritrean group

United Gtr Manchester Oromo Community (UGMOC)United Somali Bravanese Community (USBC)

Somali Support NetworkBolton MultiCultural Integration Group (BMIG)

Horn of Africa Cultural CentreAfrican Community Association of Bolton (ACAB)

The Kingdom FellowshipBolton French African Assistance (BoFAA)

Juakali Women’s Craft GroupAssociation of Mauritanian Refugees

Bolton Racial Equality Council (BREC)Refugee Action

Bolton New Unity CentreBolton Solidarity Community Association (BSCA)

Bolton CVSBolton Community Network

Health and Care Together

Interpreters :Sue LeschenIan Jameson

Ken Waiganjo

Caterer :Azeldin Sharif

Appendix 3Workshop Feedback :

Please see spreadsheet overleaf.


Appendix 3

Funding and DevelopmentTeamAway Day 15th June 2009

Initial ReportThe team away day was about mapping our work, being honest about what we aregood at and what we need to improve, recognising that we are operating inchangeable times where the need to provide evidence of our impact is growing evermore important and working together to figure out a way forward.

The day began with a mapping session looking at the development of voluntary andcommunity groups as well as social enterprises.We looked at the stages a group mayneed support at and at the support available from within our team.The completemapping exercise will form an appendix to the final report.

In the second part of the session the team focussed on outcomes and the NAVCAquality standards.This was an opportunity to honestly evaluate our strengths andidentify gaps in provision.

Feedback fromAway Day % increase What might this indicate?

Improved knowledge of what 83% That the away day has been adevelopment support we can offer valuable tool for teamto groups in Bolton communication

Increased knowledge about the 66% That some staff were moreresources we have available informed than others at the outsetand where to find them

Understanding of which outcomes 50% 50% of the team were alreadymy work contributes towards confident on outcomes

Confidence that we can evidence 66% Mixed feelings about evidencethe impact of our work possibly as a result of our current

lack of consistency

Understanding of how the NAVCA 16% A strong message has already beenQuality Awards work delivered about the Quality Award

Confidence in our systems for 100% Staff commitment to change is full.measuring effectiveness Team are motivated to introduce

new systems

Confidence that our team works/will 83% A small proportion of staff eitherwork seamlessly with the rest of CVS lack confidence or already feels

confident.This will need to beConfidence that our team works/will 83% followed up with them duringwork seamlessly with one another supervision.


Action Issues Responsible

Need to centralise Info needs to be sent through to All - Info toinformation and resources Heather who will arrange a team Heather by 1st July

meeting to look at resources/plan starter pack

Introduce a standard Saskia to upload health check to SaskiaHealth Check Intranet and inform team

Adopt the group agreement Saskia to upload to intranet All teamand use from today

Sending service user Who to send? How do we All team/Sumaiyaevaluation forms after 1 session organise this? Who to collate?

Sending service user Who to send? How do we All team/Sumaiyaevaluation forms after 3 months organise this? Who to collate?

Begin using standard evaluation Diane has developed originals Heather to put onforms for events/forums/training intranet

2009/10 Training Programme To include C&YP, insurance, All Teamsystems/policies, risk assess etc Need meeting

NAVCA Self Assessment Toolkit Draft to be completed and Saskiacirculated to teamTeam to contribute and forward All teamto Saskia by Thursday

Develop a Development Team to discuss content All teamStarter Pack Need meeting

Analyse our sustainability Analysis of spider chart andself assessment areas for improvement Saskia

Clarify the life cycle of Develop a diagram detailing Saskiaa group and support support identified via away dayavailable

Specific comments from day:

I’m feeling positive that we are moving in the right direction.

I’d like us to review actions every 6-12 months and look at distance travelled

This has been a great introduction to the work of CVS

Key immediate actions from the session include:


The Funding and Development Teamand the BIG Bolton Fund are partof Bolton CVS, a Company limited byGuarantee No 2615057Registered Charity No 1003123

Funded and Supported by

Documents

FUndign and Development Plan 2009-10