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Action Learning is a way of learning by doing. An Action Learning Set consists of between 8-10 members who will meet once a month over 4 months for half a day. During each session, one or two members will present a challenge they are currently facing. Other members will then have the chance to ask some clarifying questions, with the remainder of the session focussed on developing a few possible solutions. This will result in a list of 'actions' being taken away by the member, to try over the course of the next month, and report back at the next session. An Action Learning Set is facilitated by a professional facilitator, but the issues explored are determined largely by its members to ensure it remains relevant. Typical issues that might be explored are: developing new marketing strategies as a response to the recession, diversifying business offering and/or increasing customer base or securing
funding in the current market. Bethany James, Project Officer for the Leadership Academy, will organise dates and venues once all responses are collated. All members of the Set will be emailed and introduced to each other. A decision will then be reached, communally, as to where and when the Set should take place. Joining instructions will be sent out before each session and Bethany will distribute any documents to the Set as required. If you are interested in being part of an Action Learning Set email
Bethany at b.d.james@surrey.ac.uk.
Launch of Community radio station for East Grinstead added 23.2.10
7am on 1st March has seen the launch of this new community radio station which will be manned by volunteers. It will be held at Meridian FM, Jubilee Community Centre, Charlwood Road (off Lingfield Road), East Grinstead. For more details contact Nigel Peacock, Station Manager, Tel: 01342 325825, email: admin@meridianfm.com or visit www.meridianfm.com
Get Digital - internet access in sheltered housing added 18.1.10
Nearly 20,000 people living in sheltered housing will benefit from the government's £2.9m plans to boost the number of silver surfers. The programme, to be delivered by the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE) and Digital Unite, will provide residents with access to computers and the training they need to make the most of the new technology. Local schools will link up with sheltered housing schemes so that young and old can learn together. By the end of March 2011 Get Digital will work with 195 sheltered housing schemes nationwide, and will extend internet access to a further 300 schemes. For more information on the Get Digital programme email: getdigital@niace.org.uk
Children's Swine Flu Vaccination information (added 12.1.10)
Information about the swine flu vaccination for babies over six months and children under five years is available by phoning 0800 1 513 513 or visiting www.direct.gov.uk/swineflu
Free childcare for Training and Learning for Work scheme added 6.11.09
The Learning and Skills Council (LSC) aims to help parents from low income families with free childcare whilst they train or learn, to help gain employment. The scheme is open to families with one partner in work, an annual household income of £20,000 or less, a child/children aged 14 or under (or aged 18 or under with disabilities). To find out more or to apply for the Free Childcare for Training and Learning for Work scheme, visit www.direct.gov.uk or phone the Learner Support helpline on 0800 121 8989
Flu Friends added 27.7.09
Everyone in Sussex has been urged to identify their 'Flu Friends'” who would be available to help if they become unwell. Flu friends could be relatives, neighbours and friends who will be able to collect medicines, food and other supplies for people if they get swine flu, so that they don’t have to leave home. This will help to prevent the spread of flu out into the community. If you have any queries about Flu Friends or how to get involved, contact Liz Costigan, Programme Manager, Flu Friends at West Sussex PCT on 01903 708374 or email elizabeth.costigan@westsussexpct.nhs.uk
Valuing Employment Now: real jobs for people with learning disabilities added 10.7.09
The Government has launched this new employment strategy for people with learning disabilities. Valuing Employment Now - real jobs for people with learning disabilities sets out to increase the number of people with learning disabilities in employment by 2025. The Government wants as many of these jobs to be at least 16 hours per week. The strategy includes action to raise expectations throughout the system that all people with learning disabilities can and should have the chance to work: from birth and early years through education, among health and social care staff, local authorities, employment agencies, employers, and people with learning disabilities themselves and their families. Read the strategy at www.dh.gov.uk
Aiming High for Disabled Children, West Sussex (added 26.5.09)
West Sussex County Council is developing short break services for disabled children. Short breaks provide all sorts of opportunities for disabled children and young people. Spending time away from their primary carers may allow them to experience and enjoy new relationships, environments and positive activities. They also provide an opportunity for carers to recharge their batteries. A short break may include a few hours, a day, evening, overnight or weekend activity. They could take place at home, at an approved carer's home, in the community or in a residential setting. Read about the programme here
Disability Living Allowance - extension for visually impaired people added 26.5.09
The government has announced that severely visually impaired people will be entitled to the higher rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance from 2011. Only people disabled before the age of 65 can claim Disability Living Allowance.
One Space, the social networking site for single parents, has a range of interactive resources to help single parents tackle problems such as mortgage arrears, CSA issues and managing fuel bills. For more details visit http://recession.onespace.org.uk
Crawley Faith, Belief and Culture Guide added 11.1.10
This A-Z guide of faith, belief and culture groups working and living in Crawley, is available free to voluntary organisations. For a copy contact Marie Ovenden on 01293 438328 or email marie.ovenden@crawley.gov.uk
Bowel cancer is the third most common cancer in the UK. People aged between 60 and 69 and registered with a GP in Sussex will receive a letter which includes a leaflet 'Bowel Cancer Screening - the facts' to help them make an informed choice about whether or not to take up the screening opportunity. For more details visit www.cancerscreening.nhs.uk/bowel/
Libraries to help foil fraudsters added 23.2.10
People are encouraged to help foil fraudsters by passing scam mail, such as letters claiming you have won a foreign lottery, into their local library. The County Council Trading Standards Service and the Library Service have teamed up to back Scamnesty 2010 - a nationwide Office of Fair Trading initiative against mass-marketed scam mailings. Library staff will pass details of all scam mail to Trading Standards. If you think you have been the victim of a scam - either postal or online, or suspect a scam, you can also contact Consumer Direct on 0845 040506 or visit www.consumerdirect.gov.uk/scamnesty
Plan for a debt-free Christmas 2010 added 18.1.10
West Sussex Credit Union are encouraging residents and workers in West Sussex to start saving now for Christmas 2010. Many people borrow from high cost lenders each year to pay for Christmas presents and treats etc. Saving a small but regular amount each month between February and November with West Sussex Credit Union will ease the financial worries of next Christmas. Savings can be made by setting up a standing order payable to your Credit Union Christmas Saver’s account or by using a PayPoint card at numerous outlets around West Sussex. For more details please visit www.westsussexcreditunion.co.uk or phone 01903 237221.
West Sussex Emergency Heating Scheme added 12.1.10
Scheme providing oil-filled radiators to people with no working heating system. One radiator can be provided per household. They are intended to be a stopgap until the client is able to have a heating system fixed or replaced by the Warm Front grant or by their own means. In order to receive the radiator the client must fulfil the criteria as well as agreeing to a visit from the county Fuel Poverty Coordinator at a time to be agreed by both. Radiators will not be supplied without a referral. The client must be a homeowner or in private rented accommodation with no working central heating system and in receipt of means-tested benefit or have a net household income of less than £18,000, be over 60, or have at least one dependant child under 16, be pregnant or disabled. Contact the Fuel Poverty Co-ordinator, Arun District Council, Tel: 01903 737537 or email rebecca.jones@arun.gov.uk
Message in a bottle added 21.12.09
The Lions Club sponsors this 'Message in a Bottle' scheme, which encourages people to keep their basic personal and medical details in a plastic bottle that can easily be found in an emergency. The information is kept in the fridge where the emergency services can find it in the event of being called to your home. The containers can be obtained free of charge from health centres, GP surgeries and chemists. All costs are paid for by the Lions Club.
Social work surgeries for older people in Lancing and Southwick added 21.12.09
Run by the Community Partnership Team, older residents in the Lancing and Southwick areas can drop into Lancing library on the second Friday of each month from 10.30am-1pm for advice on benefits, caring, housing and other social concerns. This service is also available at Southwick library every third Friday of each month from 10.30am-1pm.
Cook and Eat Classes, Littlehampton and Worthing (added 4.9.09)
Learn to cook and taste nutritionally balanced economical meals with Guild Care’s qualified instructor. Courses are 5 sessions each lasting 2 hours. The classes are suitable for those who want to gain more confidence in the kitchen. For more information contact - Littlehampton: Vicky Reynolds, Tel: 01903 737865, email: www.vicki.reynolds@arun.gov.uk. Worthing - Nina Bohm, Tel: 01903 528635, email nina.bohm@guildcare.org
A training programme for staff working and volunteering with young people has been set up which supports young people aged 13-19 years with a wide range of issues, such as an introduction to youth work, personal safety, substance misuse, sexual health and equalities. The programme, which aims to provide useful resources, information, advice and guidance, is a partnership initiative between Horsham District Council, Churches Together, Kingdom Faith, West Sussex Council for Voluntary Youth Service and West Sussex Youth Service. Sessions will take place in a range of settings over the next 12 months. For more information phone 01403 251385 or email: community.development@horsham.gov.uk
'Prevent' Training in West Sussex added 23.2.10
West Sussex Harm Reduction Team is a multi-agency led approach to crime and terrorism, such as discrimination, hate, exclusion, depravation, political and religious ideology. They are holding half-day awareness-raising sessions throughout West Sussex from March to September for groups and individuals from statutory and non-statutory organisations, including local authority staff, police, education, fire and rescue service, community groups and the health sector. For more details contact Dee Mulley on 01243 382919, Email: dee.mulley@westsussex.gov.uk, Mr Gulu Sibanda, Prevent Training Officer, Email: gulu.sibanda@westsussex.gov.uk or visit www.westsussex.gov.uk/harmreduction
Worthing Ice Rink, 30th January-28th February added 18.1.10
Worthing Town Centre Initiative (TCI) will be returning to Steyne Gardens with its ice rink from 30th January - 28th February. For more details visit www.worthingicerink.co.uk.
Mortgage Rescue Scheme added 14.7.09
This is a government scheme which may help if you are having serious difficulties making your mortgage repayments and are in danger of becoming homeless if repossessed. To be eligible, households must include someone in 'priority need' such as a pregnant woman, someone with dependent children, or someone who is vulnerable because of old age or a physical or mental impairment. Contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau or Shelter to see if you are eligible. You may also be eligible for help from the Mortgage Rescue scheme if you are in ‘negative equity’. For more details visit www.direct.gov.uk
Age Concern Literary Competition added 15.12.09
Competition open to all residents of West Sussex aged 50+. There are eight categories, covering fictional stories, poems, a non-fictional article, a monologue, a 100-word story and a young person's story. You can enter as many categories and themes as you like. Pre-numbered entry forms, copies of the rules, presentation guidelines, category details and titles are available from the Literary Competition Organiser, Age Concern West Sussex, Suite 2, Anchor Springs, Littlehampton BN17 6BP, on receipt of an A5 stamped self-addressed envelope. Deadline for entries is 31st March 2010
Angmering Community Centre room hire available added 21.12.09
The Community Centre, which serves the whole of Angmering and surrounding area, is a multi-purpose venue with a main hall, two meeting rooms, kitchen and central display and refreshment area. Information about rooms, hire charges and what's going on is available at www.angmeringcommunitycentre.org.uk
Noticeboard - developments, resources, services and opportunities
See also: support, surveys and volunteersDEVELOPMENTS
Action Learning Sets for managers of the voluntary sector added 1.3.10Action Learning is a way of learning by doing. An Action Learning Set consists of between 8-10 members who will meet once a month over 4 months for half a day. During each session, one or two members will present a challenge they are currently facing. Other members will then have the chance to ask some clarifying questions, with the remainder of the session focussed on developing a few possible solutions. This will result in a list of 'actions' being taken away by the member, to try over the course of the next month, and report back at the next session. An Action Learning Set is facilitated by a professional facilitator, but the issues explored are determined largely by its members to ensure it remains relevant. Typical issues that might be explored are: developing new marketing strategies as a response to the recession, diversifying business offering and/or increasing customer base or securing
funding in the current market. Bethany James, Project Officer for the Leadership Academy, will organise dates and venues once all responses are collated. All members of the Set will be emailed and introduced to each other. A decision will then be reached, communally, as to where and when the Set should take place. Joining instructions will be sent out before each session and Bethany will distribute any documents to the Set as required. If you are interested in being part of an Action Learning Set email
Bethany at b.d.james@surrey.ac.uk.
Launch of Community radio station for East Grinstead added 23.2.10
7am on 1st March has seen the launch of this new community radio station which will be manned by volunteers. It will be held at Meridian FM, Jubilee Community Centre, Charlwood Road (off Lingfield Road), East Grinstead. For more details contact Nigel Peacock, Station Manager, Tel: 01342 325825, email: admin@meridianfm.com or visit www.meridianfm.com
Get Digital - internet access in sheltered housing added 18.1.10
Nearly 20,000 people living in sheltered housing will benefit from the government's £2.9m plans to boost the number of silver surfers. The programme, to be delivered by the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE) and Digital Unite, will provide residents with access to computers and the training they need to make the most of the new technology. Local schools will link up with sheltered housing schemes so that young and old can learn together. By the end of March 2011 Get Digital will work with 195 sheltered housing schemes nationwide, and will extend internet access to a further 300 schemes. For more information on the Get Digital programme email: getdigital@niace.org.uk
Children's Swine Flu Vaccination information (added 12.1.10)
Information about the swine flu vaccination for babies over six months and children under five years is available by phoning 0800 1 513 513 or visiting www.direct.gov.uk/swineflu
Free childcare for Training and Learning for Work scheme added 6.11.09
The Learning and Skills Council (LSC) aims to help parents from low income families with free childcare whilst they train or learn, to help gain employment. The scheme is open to families with one partner in work, an annual household income of £20,000 or less, a child/children aged 14 or under (or aged 18 or under with disabilities). To find out more or to apply for the Free Childcare for Training and Learning for Work scheme, visit www.direct.gov.uk or phone the Learner Support helpline on 0800 121 8989
Flu Friends added 27.7.09
Everyone in Sussex has been urged to identify their 'Flu Friends'” who would be available to help if they become unwell. Flu friends could be relatives, neighbours and friends who will be able to collect medicines, food and other supplies for people if they get swine flu, so that they don’t have to leave home. This will help to prevent the spread of flu out into the community. If you have any queries about Flu Friends or how to get involved, contact Liz Costigan, Programme Manager, Flu Friends at West Sussex PCT on 01903 708374 or email elizabeth.costigan@westsussexpct.nhs.uk
Valuing Employment Now: real jobs for people with learning disabilities added 10.7.09
The Government has launched this new employment strategy for people with learning disabilities. Valuing Employment Now - real jobs for people with learning disabilities sets out to increase the number of people with learning disabilities in employment by 2025. The Government wants as many of these jobs to be at least 16 hours per week. The strategy includes action to raise expectations throughout the system that all people with learning disabilities can and should have the chance to work: from birth and early years through education, among health and social care staff, local authorities, employment agencies, employers, and people with learning disabilities themselves and their families. Read the strategy at www.dh.gov.uk
Aiming High for Disabled Children, West Sussex (added 26.5.09)
West Sussex County Council is developing short break services for disabled children. Short breaks provide all sorts of opportunities for disabled children and young people. Spending time away from their primary carers may allow them to experience and enjoy new relationships, environments and positive activities. They also provide an opportunity for carers to recharge their batteries. A short break may include a few hours, a day, evening, overnight or weekend activity. They could take place at home, at an approved carer's home, in the community or in a residential setting. Read about the programme here
Disability Living Allowance - extension for visually impaired people added 26.5.09
The government has announced that severely visually impaired people will be entitled to the higher rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance from 2011. Only people disabled before the age of 65 can claim Disability Living Allowance.
RESOURCES
Online Money Survival Kit for Single Parents added 11.1.10One Space, the social networking site for single parents, has a range of interactive resources to help single parents tackle problems such as mortgage arrears, CSA issues and managing fuel bills. For more details visit http://recession.onespace.org.uk
Crawley Faith, Belief and Culture Guide added 11.1.10
This A-Z guide of faith, belief and culture groups working and living in Crawley, is available free to voluntary organisations. For a copy contact Marie Ovenden on 01293 438328 or email marie.ovenden@crawley.gov.uk
SERVICES
People in Sussex to benefit from bowel cancer screening added 2.3.10Bowel cancer is the third most common cancer in the UK. People aged between 60 and 69 and registered with a GP in Sussex will receive a letter which includes a leaflet 'Bowel Cancer Screening - the facts' to help them make an informed choice about whether or not to take up the screening opportunity. For more details visit www.cancerscreening.nhs.uk/bowel/
Libraries to help foil fraudsters added 23.2.10
People are encouraged to help foil fraudsters by passing scam mail, such as letters claiming you have won a foreign lottery, into their local library. The County Council Trading Standards Service and the Library Service have teamed up to back Scamnesty 2010 - a nationwide Office of Fair Trading initiative against mass-marketed scam mailings. Library staff will pass details of all scam mail to Trading Standards. If you think you have been the victim of a scam - either postal or online, or suspect a scam, you can also contact Consumer Direct on 0845 040506 or visit www.consumerdirect.gov.uk/scamnesty
Plan for a debt-free Christmas 2010 added 18.1.10
West Sussex Credit Union are encouraging residents and workers in West Sussex to start saving now for Christmas 2010. Many people borrow from high cost lenders each year to pay for Christmas presents and treats etc. Saving a small but regular amount each month between February and November with West Sussex Credit Union will ease the financial worries of next Christmas. Savings can be made by setting up a standing order payable to your Credit Union Christmas Saver’s account or by using a PayPoint card at numerous outlets around West Sussex. For more details please visit www.westsussexcreditunion.co.uk or phone 01903 237221.
West Sussex Emergency Heating Scheme added 12.1.10
Scheme providing oil-filled radiators to people with no working heating system. One radiator can be provided per household. They are intended to be a stopgap until the client is able to have a heating system fixed or replaced by the Warm Front grant or by their own means. In order to receive the radiator the client must fulfil the criteria as well as agreeing to a visit from the county Fuel Poverty Coordinator at a time to be agreed by both. Radiators will not be supplied without a referral. The client must be a homeowner or in private rented accommodation with no working central heating system and in receipt of means-tested benefit or have a net household income of less than £18,000, be over 60, or have at least one dependant child under 16, be pregnant or disabled. Contact the Fuel Poverty Co-ordinator, Arun District Council, Tel: 01903 737537 or email rebecca.jones@arun.gov.uk
Message in a bottle added 21.12.09The Lions Club sponsors this 'Message in a Bottle' scheme, which encourages people to keep their basic personal and medical details in a plastic bottle that can easily be found in an emergency. The information is kept in the fridge where the emergency services can find it in the event of being called to your home. The containers can be obtained free of charge from health centres, GP surgeries and chemists. All costs are paid for by the Lions Club.
Social work surgeries for older people in Lancing and Southwick added 21.12.09
Run by the Community Partnership Team, older residents in the Lancing and Southwick areas can drop into Lancing library on the second Friday of each month from 10.30am-1pm for advice on benefits, caring, housing and other social concerns. This service is also available at Southwick library every third Friday of each month from 10.30am-1pm.
Cook and Eat Classes, Littlehampton and Worthing (added 4.9.09)
Learn to cook and taste nutritionally balanced economical meals with Guild Care’s qualified instructor. Courses are 5 sessions each lasting 2 hours. The classes are suitable for those who want to gain more confidence in the kitchen. For more information contact - Littlehampton: Vicky Reynolds, Tel: 01903 737865, email: www.vicki.reynolds@arun.gov.uk. Worthing - Nina Bohm, Tel: 01903 528635, email nina.bohm@guildcare.org
OPPORTUNITIES
Training for youth work added 23.2.10A training programme for staff working and volunteering with young people has been set up which supports young people aged 13-19 years with a wide range of issues, such as an introduction to youth work, personal safety, substance misuse, sexual health and equalities. The programme, which aims to provide useful resources, information, advice and guidance, is a partnership initiative between Horsham District Council, Churches Together, Kingdom Faith, West Sussex Council for Voluntary Youth Service and West Sussex Youth Service. Sessions will take place in a range of settings over the next 12 months. For more information phone 01403 251385 or email: community.development@horsham.gov.uk
'Prevent' Training in West Sussex added 23.2.10
West Sussex Harm Reduction Team is a multi-agency led approach to crime and terrorism, such as discrimination, hate, exclusion, depravation, political and religious ideology. They are holding half-day awareness-raising sessions throughout West Sussex from March to September for groups and individuals from statutory and non-statutory organisations, including local authority staff, police, education, fire and rescue service, community groups and the health sector. For more details contact Dee Mulley on 01243 382919, Email: dee.mulley@westsussex.gov.uk, Mr Gulu Sibanda, Prevent Training Officer, Email: gulu.sibanda@westsussex.gov.uk or visit www.westsussex.gov.uk/harmreduction
Worthing Ice Rink, 30th January-28th February added 18.1.10
Worthing Town Centre Initiative (TCI) will be returning to Steyne Gardens with its ice rink from 30th January - 28th February. For more details visit www.worthingicerink.co.uk.
Mortgage Rescue Scheme added 14.7.09
This is a government scheme which may help if you are having serious difficulties making your mortgage repayments and are in danger of becoming homeless if repossessed. To be eligible, households must include someone in 'priority need' such as a pregnant woman, someone with dependent children, or someone who is vulnerable because of old age or a physical or mental impairment. Contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau or Shelter to see if you are eligible. You may also be eligible for help from the Mortgage Rescue scheme if you are in ‘negative equity’. For more details visit www.direct.gov.uk
Age Concern Literary Competition added 15.12.09
Competition open to all residents of West Sussex aged 50+. There are eight categories, covering fictional stories, poems, a non-fictional article, a monologue, a 100-word story and a young person's story. You can enter as many categories and themes as you like. Pre-numbered entry forms, copies of the rules, presentation guidelines, category details and titles are available from the Literary Competition Organiser, Age Concern West Sussex, Suite 2, Anchor Springs, Littlehampton BN17 6BP, on receipt of an A5 stamped self-addressed envelope. Deadline for entries is 31st March 2010
Angmering Community Centre room hire available added 21.12.09
The Community Centre, which serves the whole of Angmering and surrounding area, is a multi-purpose venue with a main hall, two meeting rooms, kitchen and central display and refreshment area. Information about rooms, hire charges and what's going on is available at www.angmeringcommunitycentre.org.uk
