The primary aim of the supports provided by the Community Outreach Workers is to build capacity within the Community & Voluntary sector, and thereby enable volunteers to contribute effectively to the development of their communities, whether local or thematic.

Social Inclusion is at the heart of this work, and so support is targeted in particular at areas of disadvantage and greatest need.

Voluntary Groups can access support/training on:

• Committee Skills
• Developing a Constitution
• Undertaking Public Consultations
• Drawing up and implementing a Strategic Plan
• Organising Effective meetings

Typically, some funding is needed, to help get the ball rolling and ensure the success of any undertaking. As well as providing some small grant support, the Outreach Workers also help community & voluntary groups to access funding from other sources.

This involves providing:

• Information on current funding available
• Assistance with completing application forms
• Help with accessing approved funding
• Advice on fundraising

Networks

Many community & voluntary groups are affiliated to countywide networks to exchange information, ideas and best practices. A number of these networks – Disability, Youth, Older People, Women, Equality Promotion – are supported in running their meetings, and in developing and implementing their plans, arranging events etc.

All supports are free of charge and tailored to suit the needs of individual groups and networks.

Want to find out more? Contact Regina Byrne.

Community Development Support Links