Posted on 17th Aug
A Newark and Sherwood charity is to expand its work helping people, community groups and organisations through and on from the coronavirus pandemic.
At the beginning of July the charity Newark and Sherwood CVS received funding through the National Lottery’s Community Fund to deliver a new scheme across the area.
The Phoenix project will build on the organisation’s recent work in response to the coronavirus outbreak, providing support to vulnerable individuals, community groups and more than 100 volunteers.
Chief officer Madeleine O’Sullivan explained: “It became apparent very quickly at the start of lockdown that many community groups and organisations lacked the resource, technology and support necessary to continue in a rapidly-changing environment.
“Since March we have contacted and supported around 150 groups and over 400 individuals through a number of community schemes. Planning services and future-proofing are essential for the survival of voluntary organisations at present, and the new funding will enable us to help make this possible.”
The aim of the project is to support local organisations and communities to move on from the pandemic, to adapt, evolve and continue to deliver much-needed services.
The project will specifically focus on the role of technology and digital enablement, developing volunteer services and providing infrastructure support to groups.
Madeleine added: “The project will run until the end of the year and is open to community and voluntary organisations across the district.
“Individuals looking for volunteering opportunities, or needing help to access services, will soon be able to do so through the organisation’s new website and ‘virtual’ Volunteer Centre. Remote and telephone-based services will also be available for people who are unable to access the internet.”
The organisation says the new funding will enable it to provide vital support to communities and improve the wellbeing of local people as a result. It aims to improve access to information, advice and training, connecting and strengthening communities and creating a legacy of volunteering post Covid.
For more information about the project, contact Newark and Sherwood CVS on 01636 679539 or email information@nandscvs.org.
Pictured is Newark and Sherwood CVS chief officer Madeleine O’Sullivan (far left) celebrating with friends after receiving the cheque from the National Lottery.
