Training

35-39 London Street, Reading RG1 4PS

Do you work with a local neighbourhood group, or are you thinking of starting one or organising local activities? Help promote your activities and news with our series of free 'Grow your Image' workshops.

The first of these workshops is led by Alan Bunce, local journalist, PR consultant, and former Getreading community news editor. We'll be discussing ideas for gathering your local news and creating great articles for your community newsletter.

Click here to register - it's free!

35-39 London Street, Reading RG1 4PS

Do you work with a local neighbourhood group, or are you thinking of starting one or organising local activities? Help promote your activities and news with our series of free 'Grow your Image' workshops.

The second workshop in the series will cover the basics of designing and laying out a newsletter for paper and online formats, and give an introduction to using desktop publishing software such as Microsoft Publisher and Scribus. This workshop is led by David Neale, RNN's news editor and webmaster with more than 20 years' experience of producing community newsletters.

Click here to register - it's free!

35-39 London Street, Reading RG1 4PS

Do you work with a local neighbourhood group, or are you thinking of starting one or organising local activities? Help promote your activities and news with our series of free 'Grow your Image' workshops.

The third workshop in the series will help you take great photos for your newsletter, website and social media feeds. You don't need an expensive camera, just the right angle and arrangement! This workshop is led by Lynda Bowyer, a well-known local photographer who specialises in press and commercial work.

Click here to register - it's free!

35-39 London Street, Reading RG1 4PS

Do you work with a local neighbourhood group, or are you thinking of starting one or organising local activities? Help promote your activities and news with our series of free 'Grow your Image' workshops.

The fourth workshop in the series is led by Rob Davies from the Museum of English Rural Life, and will focus on getting more from social media. Social media plays a significant role in many people’s lives. Organisations both large and small are using social media to their advantage, whether it’s promoting their work, sharing ideas or showing support. With so many different platforms and approaches, it can be difficult to know where to begin and how to go about it. This session will provide you with an overview of all social media platforms, how you can use them to your advantage and why your organisation should be using social media.

Click here to register - it's free!

University of Reading, Redlands Road, Reading RG1 5EX

Do you work with a local neighbourhood group, or are you thinking of starting one or organising local activities? Help get more people involved with our series of free 'Grow your Numbers' workshops.

This session will explore how to encourage members of your community to volunteer and support your organisation. This could be through formal volunteering roles but also supporting your organisation in various ways. Through a series of activities we will discuss what would be best for your organisation and how to create a volunteer strategy. With Rob Davies, Volunteer Coordinator for the Museum of English Rural Life.

Click here to register - it's free!

University of Reading, Redlands Road, Reading RG1 5EX

Do you work with a local neighbourhood group, or are you thinking of starting one or organising local activities? Help get more people involved with our series of free 'Grow your Numbers' workshops.

This session will explore how to retain community volunteers and keep the momentum going, identifying risks and managing expectations. With Rob Davies, Volunteer Coordinator for the Museum of English Rural Life.

UNFORTUNATELY WE HAVE HAD TO POSTPONE THIS EVENT - WE WILL REARRANGE IT AS SOON AS WE CAN. Apologies for any inconvenience.

Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

The Ready Friends project at RVA is delighted to be partnering with Samaritans Reading to host free Listening Skills Workshops this September. The workshops are open to all, but may be of particular interest to volunteer befrienders, or people interested in becoming befrienders.

Based on the Samaritans' 'Listening Wheel', each workshop will cover:

• Empathic listening
• The differences between empathy and sympathy
• Barriers to effective communication
• Verbal and non-verbal signs someone needs support
• Self-care for listeners

These fun and interactive workshops last for 1 hour and 15 minutes. Spaces are limited to ensure a small group, so book now at www.eventbrite.co.uk.

Third Floor, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

Aim: To help you develop the knowledge and skills to work well with your local media at a time of austerity and rapidly-changing media.

Learning outcomes

The workshop will help you to:

• Understand how local media works (local press emphasis)
• Identify elements of a good story
• Write a strong press release
• Effectively approach journalists.
• Get your stories and pictures picked up by the media
• Use local media to help boost your web traffic

Who it’s aimed at: People who work within the local voluntary sector (charities, community groups) who want to use the power of local media to help them raise their profile, fund-raise, campaign and increase volunteer numbers.

Trainers

Sofija Opacic has over 20 years experience working in the Third Sector and for the last five years she has been running Creative Public Affairs which helps people work with the media more effectively to create social good.

Alan Bunce has been a local journalist for 21 years including as the Business Editor for the Reading Chronicle and Community Editor for the Reading Post. He is currently freelancing in PR and journalism.

Cost: £30 or free for RNN members using the usual promotional code - please contact us if you need this.

Click here to register

Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

The Ready Friends project at RVA is delighted to be partnering with Samaritans Reading to host free Listening Skills Workshops this September. The workshops are open to all, but may be of particular interest to volunteer befrienders, or people interested in becoming befrienders.

These fun and interactive workshops last for 1 hour and 15 minutes, topics covered are:

• Empathic listening
• The differences between empathy and sympathy
• Barriers to effective communication
• Verbal and non-verbal signs someone needs support
• Self-care for listeners

Spaces are limited, so book now at www.eventbrite.co.uk.

233 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS

A Renters Rising workshop for Reading and the Southeast held by ACORN Reading.

These workshops are at the heart of our plan to build a renters’ union – enabling you to meet like-minded folks, learn about renters’ rights and the small skills we can use to build a BIG movement. It’ll be a day of training in the skills needed to build a large, powerful movement to ensure that renters and the communities in which we live, are able to have a say in guaranteeing that the private rental sector is fit for standard.

Renters pay the most to live in the worst conditions with the least security. This will give people the tools to change that.We’ll be focused on the methods used to build a movement, looking at Community Organising methods.

We’ll discuss some of the issues facing renters and look into what can be done to improve the situation. We’ll also look at the organisation ACORN are setting up to fight for these improvements, and finally we’ll decide how we in Reading want to move forward with this campaign.

Find out more at www.rentersrising.org.uk/renters_rising_reading or email reading@acorncommunities.org.uk for more information.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library (rear doors), Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

RVA and RCVYS are working in partnership to deliver safeguarding training specifically aimed at Trustees and those running unincorporated groups and community associations.

Trustees (also sometimes known as the Management Committee) hold the overall responsibility for the actions of their groups and it is essential to know your safeguarding responsibilities to give you the confidence to run your group effectively. By the end of the session you will be able to:

-Demonstrate an awareness of the safeguarding issues that could emerge in your organisation.
-Describe key principles and best practice in terms of your responsibilities to safeguard individuals involved with your organisation.
-Identify resources to help you and your staff/volunteers to safeguard effectively.
-Identify next steps for yourselves and your organisation in terms of meeting your safeguarding responsibilities.

You will also have the opportunity to meet fellow trustees and managers from the local voluntary sector and share your best practice.

The training is free but please register at www.eventbrite.co.uk to book your place.

Click here to register - it's free!

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

If you are new to the role of treasurer, have done it for a while but would like to be sure you’re doing the right thing, or would like to find out more about being a treasurer this course is for you. If you aren’t yet volunteering as a treasurer but would like to, RVA can then help place you with an organisation to put your new skills into practice.

Aims of the workshop
-To build understanding of the role of a treasurer in a small voluntary organisation.
-To ensure the ability to deal with the specifics of the finances of a small voluntary organisation.
-To leave the workshop confident about the issues that are likely to face the treasurer of a small organisation.
Learning outcomes
The content covered will be tailored depending on the needs of delegates on the day. However typically attendees will:
-Understand their financial responsibilities as trustees.
-Understand the particular requirements for the accounts of a small voluntary organisation.
-Be aware of corporate governance issues facing small voluntary organisations.
-Be ready to resolve issues with record keeping and know where to get help if they need it.
-Be able to determine if the organisation they volunteer with needs an audit or independent examination of their accounts.
Target audience
The workshop will be open to up to 12 delegates. It will be aimed primarily at new volunteers who wish to act as treasurers in Reading’s voluntary sector, but will also be suitable for volunteers who are stepping up to the role of treasurer.
Post course support
Each delegate will be entitled to up to one hour’s post course email support to follow up issues covered on the course.
Cost
The training is at RVA's reduced rate of £30. FREE places are available for RNN members using the usual promotional code. RNN members should have received their discount code already by email - please contact us if you need it.

Register online at www.eventbrite.co.uk.

The course will be delivered by Rachel Eden, ACMA Director

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

Does your organisation need a web site? Or do you already have one but want something that looks more modern or is easier to maintain? If you need help with setting up a web site this is the session for you.

We’ll go through everything you need to get started – how to set up a simple and easy to maintain web site with static and blog/news pages. We’ll be using WordPress, which is completely free and is one of the easiest content management systems to set up and learn, used by millions of web sites worldwide.

This is a hands-on computer training workshop, so by the end of the session you could even have your own site up and running and ready to add your own graphics and content!

If your organisation can afford to spend a few pounds per year we’ll also cover purchasing your own domain and getting it going with to your new website.

Please register on Eventbrite at www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/build-a-website-for-beginners-tickets.

Making Every Contact Count (MECC) is an approach to behaviour change that utilises existing day-to-day interactions that organisations and individuals have with other people to support them in making positive changes to their physical and mental health and wellbeing. The Reading MECC project will adopt the broader definition of MECC, known as MECC+. This includes conversations to help people think about wider determinants to their health, such as debt management and welfare advice.

MECC training for front-line staff and volunteers: The half day training session will prepare you with the knowledge and confidence to make appropriate use of opportunities within your role to raise the issue of lifestyle choices and know where to signpost to.

Attendees will:
-Have the ability to identify opportunities with individuals and understand how to make effective approaches in promoting health in the context of their working relationship with the individual, and overcome barriers and concerns
-Understand what response and actions are appropriate in supporting lifestyle issues, how to measure their impact, and how to signpost clients to appropriate services.

The training focuses on how to identify appropriate situations in which to use the MECC approach; participants will be encouraged to use the MECC approach with their client groups whenever this is considered beneficial.

Date of training session: Thursday 26 January 09:30  – 12:30 or 13:30 – 16:30. To book a place please go to www.reading.gov.uk/trainingapplication.

Making Every Contact Count (MECC) is an approach to behaviour change that utilises existing day-to-day interactions that organisations and individuals have with other people to support them in making positive changes to their physical and mental health and wellbeing.

What are the benefits of this approach?

Staff and volunteers:
-Have the competence and confidence to deliver healthy lifestyle messages, to help encourage people to change their behaviour and to direct them to local services that can support them – “right place, first time”
-Are able to offer tailored advice to an individual’s circumstances and work with individuals and communities from their perspective
-Are trained in the theory and delivery of elements of behavioural change, which as a transferable skill can be applied beyond lifestyle and health determinants

MECC helps improve the accessibility of advice and support services to all, whilst making them more community focused.

The half day training session will prepare you with the knowledge and confidence to make appropriate use of opportunities within your role to raise the issue of lifestyle choices and know where to signpost to.

Date of training session: Friday 27 January 09:30 – 12:30 or 13:30 – 16:30. To book a place please go to www.reading.gov.uk/trainingapplication.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

Trustees play an essential role in our society, making our charity sector work. It’s a hugely rewarding role but it’s not always easy to get all the information you require to be sure you are carrying out your role as effectively as possible. This training will help give you an overview of what’s expected of trustees as well as providing a networking opportunity with your fellow trustees from the area.

The areas covered are will include:
-Basic structure of a voluntary organisation
-Trustee duties and liability
-Trustee Roles
-Choosing/understanding your organisation’s structure
-Your constitution
-Reporting
-Organisational policies

The training is suitable for new and existing trustees and will also give a valuable introduction to anyone thinking of taking on the role. You will leave with an improved knowledge of what the position entails along with how to limit any liability you might face.

The course is free but please register at www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/trustee-training-tickets to confirm your place

Click here to register - it's free!

Third Floor, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

What is the course about and who is it for?
All voluntary and community groups are legally required to have basic health and safety measures in place. A key step to achieving this is to have a representative from your group who has received basic health and safety training in the workplace and understands how to undertake risk assessments.

RVA, in conjunction with Redkite Training Solutions, are hosting a one-day health and safety in the workplace training course, which will include risk assessments.

This course will emphasise what you can do to ensure that your service users, volunteers, colleagues and of course you yourself are kept safe when you are carrying out your work, activities and services, as well as helping you to identify and address potential hazards.

Duration and learning objectives: Duration: 1 day (09:30  – 16:00)
This programme will enable you to understand:
-The roles and responsibilities for health, safety and welfare in the workplace
-How risk assessments contribute to health and safety
-How to identify and control the risks from common workplace hazards
-The procedures for responding to accidents and incidents in the workplace

Cost and booking: The course is provided by an external health and safety expert. We have managed to secure a reduced rate of £35 per participant (plus £2.70 Eventbrite booking fee).

To ensure maximum participation and space, this course is limited to 12 participants. Please therefore book early at www.eventbrite.co.uk or using the link below:

Click here to register

Third Floor, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

Whether you are a new organisation, have recently grown, changed committee members or are in the process of dealing with change this practical session will help you understand and improve your budgeting process. This will be useful to trustees, including chairs and treasurers as well as Chief Execs as the session highlights the key roles in setting and benefiting from a sound budget.

Aims of the workshop
-To build understanding of the importance of budgeting
-To build confidence and ability to build a budget
-To leave the workshop having started the work to ensure a sound budget for the coming financial year
Delegates are encouraged to bring along their current budget and/or financial information to work on but a model organisation will also be used as an example.

Learning outcomes - The content covered will be tailored depending on the needs of delegates on the day. However typically attendees will:
-Understand the basis on which budgets may be built
-Understand how to identify fixed and variable costs
-Be able to create a flexible budget
-Consider the impact of uncertainty, risk and contingencies
-Be able to explain their budget to key stakeholders

Target audience: The workshop will be open to up to 8 delegates. Post course support is available with each organisation entitled to up to one hour’s post course email support to follow up issues covered on the course.

Cost: The training is at RVA's reduced rate of £40. FREE places are available for RNN members using the usual promotional code.

Please register at www.eventbrite.co.uk or using the link below:

Click here to register - It's free!

Training room, Third Floor, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

Aim: To help you develop the knowledge and skills to work well with your local media at a time of austerity and fast-changing media.

Learning outcomes - The workshop will help you to:
-Understand how local media works (press emphasis)
-Identify key elements of a powerful story
-Write a strong press release
-Effectively approach journalists
-Get your stories and pictures quickly picked up by the media
-Use social marketing to help boost your web traffic

Who it’s aimed at: People who work within the local voluntary sector (charities, community groups) who want to use the power of the local media to help them raise their profile, fund-raise, campaign and recruit volunteers.

Cost: £30 or free for RNN members using the usual promotional code - please contact us if you need this.

Please register at www.eventbrite.co.uk or using the link below:

Click here to register - it's free!

Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

Does your organisation need a website? Or do you already have one but want something that looks more modern or is easier to maintain? If you need help with setting up a website this is the session for you.

We’ll go through everything you need to get started – how to set up a simple and easy to maintain website with static and blog/news pages. We’ll be using WordPress, which is completely free and is one of the easiest content management systems to set up and learn, used by millions of websites worldwide.

This is a hands-on computer training workshop, so by the end of the session you could even have your own site up and running and ready to add your own graphics and content!

If your organisation can afford to spend a few pounds per year we’ll also cover purchasing your own domain and redirecting it to your new website.

The course usually costs £20 plus booking fee - a few free places are available for RNN members!  Members should have received their discount code already by email - please contact us if you need it.

Details and tickets at www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/build-a-website-for-beginners-tickets-33275671429.

Swallowfield Drive, Reading RG2 8UH (Bus route 6)

This course is designed to appeal to anyone who wants to know more about their community and how they can become more active.

It is suitable for those who are keen to get involved in their community and want to know more, and those who are already active in their communities and would like to develop their knowledge further.

Content:

- What is community?

- Getting involved – why and how

- Starting a group

- Local democracy

- Power and powerlessness

- Equalities.

This course is FREE to Whitley residents, £25 for others. To book please email trisha.bennett@btinternet.com.

For more information please call 07799 146615.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library (rear doors), Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

RVA and RCVYS are working in partnership to deliver safeguarding training specifically aimed at Trustees and those running unincorporated groups and community associations (please note this is not training for front-line staff).

Trustees hold the overall responsibility for the actions of their groups and it is essential to know your safeguarding responsibilities to give you the confidence to run your group effectively.

By the end of the session you will be able to:
-Demonstrate an awareness of the safeguarding issues that could emerge in your organisation.
-Describe key principles and best practice in terms of your responsibilities to safeguard individuals involved with your organisation.
-Identify resources to help you and your staff/volunteers to safeguard effectively.
-Identify next steps for yourselves and your organisation in terms of meeting your safeguarding responsibilities.

The training is free but please register at www.eventbrite.co.uk to book your place.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

RVA are hosting a further Buildings Forum for Reading-based community and voluntary groups.

Community buildings are valuable places for local people to meet, do things together and receive services. Many groups are facing the impact of tighter budgets. RVA are therefore hosting a session to explore how your group can continue to flourish and maintain a community presence through sharing buildings. It is also an opportunity to meet other groups, share your experiences of works well and to receive resources and updates.

There are many benefits of considering sharing a community building, such as ensuring Reading’s community and voluntary groups maintain a presence in the community, reduced running costs and enabling you to share the space with a like-minded charitable organisation/creating a community hub.

This session is free but please register at www.eventbrite.co.uk to confirm your place. If you are unable to attend, please cancel within 5 working days to enable someone else to attend.

Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ.

If you are new to the role of treasurer, have done it for a while but would like to be sure you’re doing the right thing, or would like to find out more about being a treasurer this course is for you. If you aren’t yet volunteering as a treasurer but would like to, RVA can then help place you with an organisation to put your new skills into practice.

Aims of the workshop
-To build understanding of the role of a treasurer in a small voluntary organisation
-To ensure the ability to deal with the specifics of the finances of a small voluntary organisation.
-To leave the workshop confident about the issues that are likely to face the treasurer of a small organisation.

Learning outcomes
The content covered will be tailored depending on the needs of delegates on the day. However typically attendees will:
-Understand their financial responsibilities as trustees
-Understand the particular requirements for the accounts of a small voluntary organisation
-Be aware of corporate governance issues facing small voluntary organisations
-Be ready to resolve issues with record keeping and know where to get help if they need it
-Be able to determine if the organisation they volunteer with needs an audit or independent examination of their accounts.

The workshop will be open to up to 12 delegates. It will be aimed primarily at new volunteers who wish to act as treasurers in Reading’s voluntary sector.

The course is at our reduced rate of £40 for Reading-based charities and community groups. There are a limited number of FREE places for RNN members using the usual promotional code - please contact us at info@rgneighbours.net if you need this code.

Tickets are available from Eventbrite at www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/treasurer-training-tickets-36579868371.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

RVA, RCVYS and St Barnabas Fellowship of Churches are holding a workshop for voluntary sector groups in Reading on the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS).

The workshop will cover
-Background and policy context
-Regulated Activity and the role
-Levels of DBS disclosure
-Completing the DBS form
-Organisational processes and the update service
-Working with individuals with unspent convictions
-Responsibilities and liabilities
-Help, support and advice available

This course is for anyone who works or volunteers for a voluntary and community group and is responsible for processing DBS checks, or supervises or manages others. It is also useful for Trustees and Managers of charity’s to gain an overview of the DBS system to inform their safeguarding procedures.

The course is free but please register at www.eventbrite.co.uk to confirm your place. If you are unable to attend, please cancel within 5 working days to enable someone else to attend. By booking a place on this course, your organisation is agreeing to pay £50 per place for non-attendance or late cancellation.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library (rear doors), Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

RVA and RCVYS are working in partnership to deliver safeguarding training specifically aimed at trustees (including committee members) of charities and community groups in Reading (please note this is not training for frontline staff).

Trustees hold the overall responsibility for the actions of their groups and it is essential to know your safeguarding responsibilities to give you the confidence to run your group effectively.

By the end of the session you will be able to:
-Demonstrate an awareness of the safeguarding issues that could emerge in your organisation.
-Describe key principles and best practice in terms of your responsibilities to safeguard individuals involved with your organisation.
-Identify resources to help you and your staff/volunteers to safeguard effectively.
-Identify next steps for yourselves and your organisation in terms of meeting your safeguarding responsibilities.

You will also have the opportunity to meet fellow trustees and managers from the local voluntary sector and share your best practice.

The course is free but please register at www.eventbrite.co.uk to confirm your place. If you are unable to attend, please cancel within 5 working days to enable someone else to attend.

110 Amersham Road, Caversham, Reading RG4 5NA

All voluntary and community groups have a duty to keep their service users safe from harm. As most charities and community groups run through the hard work and dedication of volunteers with little or no paid staff, it is important that volunteers receive basic safeguarding training.

RVA are hosting this mini workshop, which has been designed with volunteers of community groups in mind.

By the end of the course volunteers will be able to:
-Describe circumstances that can make adults vulnerable to abuse
-Recognise possible indicators of abuse
-Respond in line with the safeguarding procedures if abuse is found or suspected
-Report and record appropriately
-Recognise your duty of care to safeguard adults
-Understand the importance of professional boundaries and the consequences of breach

The course is free but please register at www.eventbrite.co.uk to confirm your place. If you are unable to attend, please cancel within 5 working days to enable someone else to attend.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

Whether you are a new organisation, have recently grown, changed committee members or are in the process of change this practical session will help you understand and improve your budgeting process. This will be useful to trustees, including chairs and treasurers as well as Chief Execs. The session highlights the key roles in setting and benefiting from a sound budget.

Aims of the workshop:
-To build understanding of the importance of budgeting
-To build confidence and ability to build a budget
-To leave the workshop having started the work to ensure a sound budget for the coming financial year.

The content covered will be tailored depending on the needs of delegates on the day. However typically attendees will:
-Understand the basis on which budgets may be built
-Understand how to identify fixed and variable costs
-Be able to create a flexible budget
-Consider the impact of uncertainty, risk and contingencies
-Be able to explain their budget to key stakeholders.

The workshop will be open to up to 8 delegates. Post-course support is available, with each organisation entitled to up to one hour’s email support to follow up issues covered on the course.

The training is at our reduced rate of £40. There are a limited number of FREE places for RNN members using the usual promotional code - please contact us at info@rgneighbours.net if you need this code.

Please register at www.eventbrite.co.uk.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

The purpose of this session is to prepare a group of volunteer focus group facilitators to run focus groups so we can gain a greater understanding into how people experience loneliness. The information will help us work with local voluntary sector organisations to meet the needs of residents in Reading who are lonely and socially isolated.

If you would like to take part as a volunteer focus group facilitator then the training is free. If you are interested in the training but do not want to help out with the focus groups, we can keep you on a waiting list and offer spaces that are available closer to the time.

The training will cover
-What is a focus group and what can it be used for?
-Structure of focus groups
-Types of questions
-Creating an environment that encourages people to speak
-Flexibility and structure – when to stick to plan and when to deviate
-Set up and administration of your focus group

The training is targeted at people who are used to working with groups and leading group activity and we will ask participants to demonstrate a level of experience before offering a place on the training.

Please email ready.friends@rva.org.uk to express interest in the workshop.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

If you are new to the role of treasurer, have done it for a while but would like to be sure you’re doing the right thing, or would like to find out more about being a treasurer this course is for you.

Aims of the workshop
-To build understanding of the role of a treasurer in a small voluntary organisation
-To ensure the ability to deal with the specifics of the finances of a small voluntary organisation
-To leave the workshop confident about the issues that are likely to face the treasurer of a small organisation

Learning outcomes
The content covered will be tailored depending on the needs of delegates on the day. However typically attendees will:
-Understand their financial responsibilities as trustees
-Understand the particular requirements for the accounts of a small voluntary organisation
-Be aware of corporate governance issues facing small voluntary organisations
-Be ready to resolve issues with record keeping and know where to get help if they need it
-Be able to determine if the organisation they volunteer with needs an audit or independent examination of their accounts

The workshop will be open to up to 12 delegates. It will be aimed primarily at new volunteers who wish to act as treasurers in Reading’s voluntary sector.

The course is at our reduced rate of £40 for Reading-based charities and community groups. There are a limited number of FREE places for RNN members using the usual promotional code - please contact us at info@rgneighbours.net if you need this code.

Please register at www.eventbrite.co.uk.

The Blade, Reading RG1 3BE

Making Every Contact Count (MECC) is an approach to behaviour change that utilises the millions of day-to-day interactions that organisations and individuals have with other people to support them in making positive changes to their physical and mental health and wellbeing. If you or your team works directly with members of the public, MECC could help you make a bigger difference to the residents you serve.

Reading Borough Council are offering a free training session on MECC, specifically for voluntary sector partners and volunteers who are in contact with members of the public. This interactive session will help you to develop practical skills to reduce loneliness, support people to stay well and to enjoy healthier, happier lives.

Please arrive 15 minutes before the start time for registration and refreshments. RSVP to Michelle.berry@reading.gov.uk or Suzie.watt@reading.gov.uk to secure your place. A maximum of 18 places are available.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

RVA and Barnabas Fellowship of Churches are holding another workshop for voluntary sector groups in Reading on the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS).

The workshop will cover:
-Background and policy context
-Regulated Activity and the role
-Levels of DBS disclosure
-Completing the DBS form
-Organisational processes and the update service
-Working with individuals with unspent convictions
-Responsibilities and liabilities
-Help, support and advice available

Who should attend? This course is for anyone who works or volunteers for a voluntary and community group and is responsible for processing DBS checks, or supervises or manages others. It is also useful for Trustees and Managers of charity's to gain an overview of the DBS system to inform their safeguarding procedures.

Cost: The course is free but please register at www.eventbrite.co.uk to confirm your place. If you are unable to attend, please cancel within 5 working days to enable someone else to attend.

100 Longwater Avenue, Green Park, Reading RG2 6GP

The Equality and Human Rights Framework is a free digital toolkit and learning programme for voluntary and community sector (VCS) organisations. It’s been designed by the Equality and Diversity Forum (EDF) to help organisations explore how equality and human rights can help achieve your core purpose, and how you can integrate equality and human rights into your work.

The learning programme combines three training workshops with online resources and a webinar to make it easy for you to participate. It aims to support community groups and organisations understand how to use the Equality and Human Rights Framework to make a difference. It provides topic overviews, addresses key themes identified by VCS organisations, and gives you the opportunity to explore how you could apply the learning to your own organisation’s work in a supportive context.

The three learning programme workshops are coming to Green Park on 2 May (full day) and 11 June (2 half day workshops). The workshops are free (with a £50 refundable deposit) and the deadline for registration is 27 April 2018.

For more information about the learning programme workshops see the EDF website at www.edf.org.uk.

Click here to Register

131-133 Cardiff Road, Reading RG1 8JF

Deaf Awareness Week is an opportunity to celebrate deaf culture and raise awareness that over 11 million people in the UK (1 in 6) are deaf or have a hearing loss.

Reading Deaf Centre are marking the importance of this celebration by holding a free Deaf Awareness Course on 15 May 2018, between 10:00 and 12:00.

This course will give some helpful tips and advice on how to communicate with someone who is deaf or has hearing loss, information on technology, and the opportunity to learn some simple British Sign Language.

To book your place please email: info@readingdeafcentre.co.uk or call Bernie Prizeman on 01189 594969 (Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 9:30 – 15:30).

Third Floor, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

All charities, voluntary and community groups have a duty to keep their service users safe from harm. As most charities and community groups run through the hard work and dedication of volunteers, it is important that volunteers as well as paid staff receive basic safeguarding training.

This course will cover

• Basic information on Child Protection and Safeguarding Children and Young People
• Types of abuse, including child trafficking, child sexual exploitation and FGM
• How to recognise abuse: the signs and symptons
• What to do when you recognise abuse: the referral process
• The importance of a multi-agency approach in safeguarding children and young people
• Safe practice

Who should attend: Anyone who works or volunteers with a charity, community or voluntary sector group in Reading whose work or volunteering brings them into contact with children or young people in whatever circumstances, whether they are new to the role or require a refresher.

The trainer: These sessions are hosted by RVA and will be delivered by approved Safeguarding Trainers, who have received training via Reading Borough Council, Safeguarding Children Services.

Please book online at www.eventbrite.co.uk. The cost is £10 per person and includes refreshments and handouts.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

If you are new to the role of treasurer for a charity, if you would like a refresher of the role, or if you would simply like to find out more about being a treasurer, this course is for you. If you aren’t yet volunteering as a treasurer but would like to, RVA can then help place you with an organisation to put your new skills into practice

Aims of the workshop

• To build an understanding of the role of a treasurer in a small voluntary organization
• To ensure the ability to deal with the specifics of the finances of a small voluntary organization
• To give confidence about the issues that are likely to be faced by a treasurer of a small voluntary organisation

Learning outcomes - The content covered will be tailored depending on the needs of delegates on the day. However typically attendees will:

• Understand their financial responsibilities as trustees
• Understand the particular requirements for the accounts of a small voluntary organisation
• Be aware of corporate governance issues facing small voluntary organisations
• Be ready to resolve issues with record keeping and know where to get help if they need it
• Be able to determine if the organisation they volunteer with needs an audit or independent examination of their accounts

The workshop will be open to up to 12 delegates. It will be aimed primarily at new volunteers who wish to act as treasurers in Reading’s voluntary sector, but will also be suitable for volunteers who are stepping up to the role of treasurer.

The course is at our reduced rate of £50 for Reading based charities and community groups. There are a limited number of FREE places for RNN members using the usual promotional code - please contact us at info@rgneighbours.net if you need this code.

Please register at www.eventbrite.co.uk.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

Trustees play an essential role in our society, making our charity sector work. It’s a hugely rewarding role but it’s not always easy to get all the information you require to be sure you are carrying out your role as effectively as possible. This training will help give you an overview of what’s expected of trustees as well as providing a networking opportunity with your fellow trustees from the area.

The areas covered will include:
-Basic structure of a voluntary organisation
-Trustee duties and liability
-Trustee Roles
-Choosing/understanding your organisation’s structure
-Your constitution
-Reporting
-Organisational policies

The training is suitable for new and existing trustees and will also give a valuable introduction to anyone thinking of taking on the role. You will leave with an improved knowledge of what the position entails along with how to limit any liability you might face.

Register at www.eventbrite.co.uk to confirm your place.

Purley Lane, Reading RG8 8AT

Don’t miss this fantastic training opportunity and networking event for volunteers and groups that run community buildings and village halls in Berkshire.

With funding cuts and a huge squeeze on resources the Community Council for Berkshire are very fortunate to have secured the offer of Fire Safety training and Fire Risk assessment advice from the Royal Berkshire Fire & Rescue Service on Thursday 8 November at The Barn, Purley on Thames from 10:00.

The training will cover:

• Practical session on Risk Assessing your community building
• National guidance in Fire Safety Risk Assessment – Small and Medium Places of Assembly.
• Using community buildings as Emergency Rest Centres
• Emergency Rest Centre – case study – what happened when our facility was used during an emergency
• Focus on maximum occupancy
• Opportunity to put Q&As to the Royal Berkshire Fire & Rescue

Cost: The training session costs £10, please book your place online at https://ccb2017.wordpress.com

This training is supported by West Berkshire Council Adult Community Learning.

All charities, voluntary and community groups have a duty to keep their service users safe from harm. As most charities and community groups run through the hard work and dedication of volunteers, it is important that volunteers as well as paid staff receive basic safeguarding training. This course is for anyone whose work or volunteering brings them into contact with children or young people.

This course will cover:

• Basic information on Child Protection and Safeguarding
• Types of abuse
• Signs and symptons of abuse
• The referral process
• The multi-agency approach
• Safe practice

At the end of the session you will:

• Understand the importance of Child Protection and your role within it.
• Have improved understanding of signs and indicators of abuse.
• Understand local Child Protection procedures and what to do if you are concerned about abuse.
• Be clear about sharing information with others.
• Have developed confidence in dealing with Child Protection issues appropriately.

How to book: This course is free of charge.

Please register online by completing the application form at www.reading.gov.uk/safeguardingchildren to confirm your place.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

RVA and Barnabas Fellowship of Churches are co-delivering this workshop for voluntary sector groups in Reading on the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS), previously CRB. This is a practical workshop and you will have the opportunity to apply what you have learnt.

The workshop will cover:

• Background and policy context
• Regulated Activity and the role
• Levels of DBS disclosure
• Completing the DBS form
• Organisational processes and the update service
• Working with individuals with unspent convictions
• Responsibilities and liabilities
• Help, support and advice available

Who should attend? This course is for anyone who works or volunteers for a voluntary and community group and is responsible for processing DBS checks, or supervises or manages others. It is also useful for Trustees and Managers of charity’s to gain an overview of the DBS system to inform their Safeguarding Procedures.

Cost: Please book online at www.eventbrite.co.uk. The cost is £10 per person.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

Trustees play an essential role in our society, making our charity sector work. It’s a hugely rewarding role but it’s not always easy to get all the information you require to be sure you are carrying out your role as effectively as possible. This training will help give you an overview of what’s expected of trustees as well as providing a networking opportunity with your fellow trustees from the area.

The areas covered will include:

• Basic structure of a voluntary organisation
• Trustee duties and liability
• Trustee Roles
• Choosing/understanding your organisation’s structure
• Your constitution
• Reporting
• Organisational policies

The training is suitable for new and existing trustees and will also give a valuable introduction to anyone thinking of taking on the role. You will leave with an improved knowledge of what the position entails along with how to limit any liability you might face.

Register at www.eventbrite.co.uk to book your place.

Highview, Reading RG31 4XD

This fun, energetic, free course introduces you to community organising. This whole day training event is facilitated by independent charity Community Council for Berkshire (CCB) and run by community organisers.

What is community organising?
Community organising is the work of bringing people together to take action around their common concerns and overcome social injustice. Community organisers reach out and listen, connect and motivate people to build their collective power. When people are organised, communities get heard and power begins to shift creating real change for good.

What does the course cover?
This one-day course is an introduction to community organising as a process which can reach out and bring people together to form stronger relationships and develop community activities together. During this course you will explore:

• What community organising is
• The importance of listening to build relationships and uncover issues
• Power in communities and why it matters
• How to motivate people to take action
• How to take your next steps in community organising and social action.

This course is free to attend but places are limited so a £10 administration fee will be charged if you fail to attend the course. To book your place please complete the online form on the website at https://ccb2017.wordpress.com.

Prospect Street, Caversham, Reading RG4 8JB

Everyone is welcome to come along and find out how to set up and run a street party in their neighbourhood. Local group Caversham Champions to End Loneliness is running the free session at Caversham Baptist Church in partnership with Reading Voluntary Action (RVA).

In recent years, national campaigns have promoted street parties as a way of meeting new people, reducing loneliness, connecting people with their neighbourhood and having a lot of fun! Over two weekends, The Big Lunch (1-2 June) and The Great Get Together (21-23 June) street parties will be happening across the country.

Workshop leader David Neale from RVA has organised many street parties in Reading and will guide participants through the kinds of things that need to be considered such as applying to the council, whether insurance is needed, publicity, playing music, serving food etc. The workshop will also cover suggestions for fun and inclusive activities to offer at neighbourhood events.

If you would like to attend this free workshop, please book at www.eventbrite.co.uk or ring Lesley on 01189 473394.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

If you are new to the role of treasurer for a charity, if you would like a refresher of the role, or if you would simply like to find out more about being a treasurer, this course is for you. If you aren’t yet volunteering as a treasurer but would like to, RVA can then help place you with an organisation to put your new skills into practice.

Aims of the workshop

• To build an understanding of the role of a treasurer in a small voluntary organization
• To ensure the ability to deal with the specifics of the finances of a small voluntary organization
• To give confidence about the issues that are likely to be faced by a treasurer of a small voluntary organisation

Learning outcomes - The content covered will be tailored depending on the needs of delegates on the day. However typically attendees will:

• Understand their financial responsibilities as trustees
• Understand the particular requirements for the accounts of a small voluntary organisation
• Be aware of corporate governance issues facing small voluntary organisations
• Be ready to resolve issues with record keeping and know where to get help if they need it
• Be able to determine if the organisation they volunteer with needs an audit or independent examination of their accounts

The workshop will be open to up to 12 delegates. It will be aimed primarily at new volunteers who wish to act as treasurers in Reading’s voluntary sector, but will also be suitable for volunteers who are stepping up to the role of treasurer.

The course is at our reduced rate of £50 for Reading based charities and community groups. There are a limited number of FREE places for RNN members using the usual promotional code - please contact us at info@rgneighbours.net if you need this code.

Please register at www.eventbrite.co.uk.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

Matt Taylor from Age UK Reading is a Dementia Champion and will be delivering this free training session for anyone from Reading’s community and voluntary sector wanting to become a Dementia Friend, as part of Dementia Action Week.

What is a Dementia Friend?
A Dementia Friend is somebody that learns about dementia so they can help their community.Too many people affected by dementia feel that society fails to understand the condition they live with. Dementia Friends help by raising awareness and understanding, so that people living with dementia can continue to live in the way they want.

What does a Dementia Friend do?
Dementia Friends help people living with dementia by taking actions – both big and small.These actions don’t have to be time-consuming. From visiting someone you know with dementia to being more patient in a shop queue, every action counts!

Dementia Friends can also get involved with things like volunteering, campaigning or wearing a badge to raise awareness. Dementia Friends is open to anyone who wants to help people with dementia in their community.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

Trustees play an essential role in our society, making our charity sector work. It’s a hugely rewarding role but it’s not always easy to get all the information you require to be sure you are carrying out your role as effectively as possible. This training will help give you an overview of what’s expected of trustees as well as providing a networking opportunity with your fellow trustees from the area.

The outcomes of the training are to:

• Better understand your role and legal responsibilities as a trustee
• Understand how this role fits with other roles in the charity
• Understand your reporting responsibilities
• Know where to go for help and support
• Feel confident in being an active member of your Board/Committee and helping to achieve your charities purposes!

The training is suitable for new and existing trustees and will also give a valuable introduction to anyone thinking of taking on the role.

Register at www.eventbrite.co.uk to book your place.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

All voluntary and community groups have a duty to keep their service users safe from harm. This training is for anyone who works or volunteers for a community group or charity in Reading where services are delivered to or they come into contact with vulnerable adults.

By the end of the course you will be able to:

• Describe circumstances that can make adults vulnerable to abuse
• Recognise possible indicators of abuse
• Respond in line with the safeguarding procedures if abuse is found or suspected
• Report and record appropriately
• Recognise your duty of care to safeguard adults
• Understand the importance of professional boundaries and the consequences of breach

Please book online at www.eventbrite.co.uk. The cost is £10 per person and includes refreshments and printed materials.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

Trustees play an essential role in our society, making our charity sector work. It’s a hugely rewarding role but it’s not always easy to get all the information you require to be sure you are carrying out your role as effectively as possible. This training will help give you an overview of what’s expected of trustees as well as providing a networking opportunity with your fellow trustees from the area.

Outcomes of this training are:

• To better understand your role and legal responsibilities as a trustee
• To understand how this role fits with other roles in the charity
• To understand your reporting responsibilities
• To know where to go for help and support
• To feel confident in being an active member of your Board/Committee and helping to achieve your charities purposes!

To achieve this we will cover:

• Introduction: ‘Trustee’, ‘Charity’ and legal structures
• Trustee roles and responsibilities: 6 Main Legal Duties
• Policies and Procedures: Which ones? Why do they matter?
• Accounting & Reporting – the essentials
• Essential resources and links to help you on your way (Tools)

The training is suitable for new and existing trustees and will also give a valuable introduction to anyone thinking of taking on the role. In some small community groups you may refer to yourselves as the Comittee. If you have overall responsibility for your community group, then this course is for you.

Please book online at www.eventbrite.co.uk. The cost is £10, which includes materials. Refreshments are provided.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

Are you new to the role of treasurer of a voluntary and community group, or in need of a refresher session? If so, this training is for you.

Aims of the workshop

• To build an understanding of the role of a treasurer in a small voluntary organisation
• To ensure the ability to deal with the specifics of the finances of a small voluntary organisation
• To give confidence about the issues that are likely to be faced by a treasurer of a small voluntary organisation

Learning outcomes: The content covered will be tailored depending on the needs of delegates on the day. However typically attendees will:

• Understand their financial responsibilities as trustees
• Understand the particular requirements for the accounts of a small voluntary organisation
• Be aware of governance issues facing small voluntary organisations
• Be ready to resolve issues with record keeping and know where to get help if they need it
• Be able to determine if the organisation they volunteer with needs an audit or independent examination of their accounts

The workshop will be open to up to 12 delegates. It will be aimed primarily at new volunteers who wish to act as treasurers in Reading’s voluntary sector.

The course is at our reduced rate of £50 for Reading based charities and community groups. There are a limited number of FREE places for RNN members using the usual promotional code - please contact us at info@rgneighbours.net if you need this code.

Please register at www.eventbrite.co.uk.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

Voluntary and community groups provide much needed services, often to those who are most vulnerable in our communities. Anyone working with Children or vulnerable adults has a duty to ensure that safer recruitment practices are in place for their volunteers and staff. It’s not always easy to understand just what DBS checks are needed (formerly CRB). This course will help you to gain an overview and understand what steps you should take to identify whether and to what level a DBS check is needed for your volunteers and staff.

The workshop will cover:

• Why did we see a change from CRB to DBS and why is it important?
• What does ‘regulated activity’ mean and how to work out whether it applies to your volunteer/staff roles.
• The levels of DBS checks that can be requested
• How to complete the DBS form
• What is the update service, the benefits and how to sign up?
• What if the DBS shows your volunteers or staff have a criminal record or unspent convictions?
• Your responsibilities
• Help, support and advice that is available

Who should attend? This workshop is for anyone who works or volunteers for a voluntary and community group and is responsible for processing DBS checks, or supervises or manages others. It is also useful for Trustees and Managers of charity’s to gain an overview of the DBS system to inform their Safeguarding Procedures.

Cost: The cost is £10 per person which covers refreshments and printed materials. Online booking is available at www.eventbrite.co.uk.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading, RG1 3BQ

Whether behind the scenes in administrative roles or working directly with clients, volunteers play a vital role in supporting the work of organisations across our town.

Given the central role that volunteers play in allowing organisations to achieve their objectives, it is perhaps surprising that many of those responsible for managing volunteers receive little or no specialised training.

This bite size version of our Introduction to Volunteer Management training will focus on the process of recruiting the volunteers your organisation needs whilst providing an oversight of the legal aspects that need to be considered when involving volunteers in your work.

What will be covered?
Recruiting Volunteers

• What to consider before involving volunteers in your work.
• Developing a role description.
• Promoting opportunities effectively.
• Initial response and selection process.

Keep it legal

• Legal status of volunteers including how to deal with expenses.
• Eligibility to volunteer – involving oversees volunteers and those in receipt of state benefits.
• Top tips for your Volunteer Policy and Agreement.
• What type of insurance you need.
• What to do when things go wrong – volunteer problem solving procedures.

This course is ideally suited to anyone who has responsibility for overseeing the work of volunteers, either as a Volunteer Manager or as part of a more wide reaching role.

Please book online at www.eventbrite.co.uk. The cost is £10 for the sessions and includes refreshments and materials.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

Trustees play an essential role in our society, making our charity sector work. It’s a hugely rewarding role but it’s not always easy to get all the information you require to be sure you are carrying out your role as effectively as possible. This training will help give you an overview of what’s expected of trustees as well as providing a networking opportunity with your fellow trustees from the area.

Outcomes of this training are:

• To better understand your role and legal responsibilities as a trustee
• To understand how this role fits with other roles in the charity
• To understand your reporting responsibilities
• To know where to go for help and support
• To feel confident in being an active member of your Board/Committee and helping to achieve your charities purposes

To achieve this we will cover:

• Introduction: ‘Trustee’, ‘Charity’ and legal structures
• Trustee roles and responsibilities: 6 Main Legal Duties
• Policies and Procedures: Which ones? Why do they matter?
• Accounting & Reporting – the essentials
• Essential resources and links to help you on your way

The training is suitable for new and existing trustees and will also give a valuable introduction to anyone thinking of taking on the role. In some small community groups you may refer to yourselves as the Comittee. If you have overall responsibility for your community group, then this course is for you.

Please book online at www.eventbrite.co.uk. The cost is £10, which includes materials. Refreshments are provided.

Watlington House, 44 Watlington Street, Reading, RG1 4RJ

Understand the key principles of how to engage, motivate and educate young people to make informed life choices. Explore key values and attitudes in effective and meaningful work with young people and expand your toolkit of activities to enhance your work and increase impact.

If you are new to working with young people or want to refresh on your youth work approach this training session is a great opportunity for you. Light refreshments will be provided.

Contact details
Email: movement@ukyouth.org
Phone: 02030 115995

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

Funding Club is a monthly forum hosted by RVA for those who are new to making funding applications or need a refresher. It will run from March to July 2020, with a different focus each month.

We recommend you attend all the sessions if possible to get the most out of Funding Club, as each session will build on the previous session. By the end of the series, you will have learnt what is needed when applying for small pots of funding (anything from £100 up to a maximum of £10,000).

Who it’s for:

• Small, mostly volunteer-led community groups who are either new to applying for funding or would like to learn/refresh their basic skills.
• You might be a trustee or a volunteer for the community group. We suggest a maximum of two people from one organisation.

Themes for Funding Club sessions:

• Session 1 (19 March 2020) Getting started: Your project, budget and team
• Session 2 (23 April 2020) Know your funder
• Session 3 (19 May 2020) Structuring your application
• Session 4 (11 June 2020) IT skills and online applications
• Session 5 (7 July 2020) Reporting and showing your impact

Please book your place for the 19 March 2020 online at www.eventbrite.co.uk. Future sessions will go live for booking nearer the time. Free event.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading, RG1 3BQ

Whether behind the scenes in an administrative roles or working directly with clients, volunteers play a vital role in supporting the work of organisations across our town. For many organisations, without the work of volunteers, it would not be possible for them to deliver the services they provide in the way they do.

Given the central role that volunteers play in allowing organisations to achieve their objectives, it is perhaps surprising that many of those responsible for managing volunteers receive little or no specialised training.

Content: This 1 day interactive session is designed to provide an overview of some of the key aspects to consider when involving volunteers in the work of your organisation, including:

• First steps – a volunteer recruitment checklist.
• Understanding volunteers’ desires – what motivates people to volunteer?
• Standing out from the crowd – promoting your opportunities effectively.
• Welcome aboard – integrating volunteers into your team and managing workloads.
• Keeping it legal – exploring legal aspects of involving volunteers in your work.
• Staying the course – keeping volunteers engaged and adapting to changing circumstances/ needs.

This course is ideally suited to anyone who has responsibility for overseeing the work of volunteers, either as a Volunteer Manager or as part of a more wide reaching role.

Ideal for those new to working with volunteers or for those looking for a refresher, the session will provide opportunities to put theory into practice by giving opportunities to explore your own organisation’s needs.

The cost is £25 for a full day and includes refreshments, a light lunch and materials. Please book online at www.eventbrite.co.uk.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading, RG1 3BQ

This session has been postponed in view of our offices being closed in line with government guidance. We plan to rearrange the session for after July 2020. However, in the meantime you can access online safeguarding resources and training through our Coronavirus Community Acton page, or contact advice@rva.org.uk. 

Voluntary and community groups provide much needed services, often to those who are most vulnerable in our communities. Anyone working with Children or vulnerable adults has a duty to ensure that safer recruitment practices are in place for their volunteers and staff.

It’s not always easy to understand just what DBS checks are needed (formerly CRB). This course will help you to gain an overview and understand what steps you should take to identify whether and to what level a DBS check is needed for your volunteers and staff.

The workshop will cover: This is a practical workshop and you will have the opportunity to apply what you have learnt.

• Why did we see a change from CRB to DBS and why is it important?
• What does ‘regulated activity’ mean and how to work out whether it applies to your volunteer/staff roles.
• The levels of DBS checks that can be requested.
• How to complete the DBS form.
• What is the update service, the benefits and how to sign up?
• What if the DBS shows your volunteers or staff have a criminal record or unspent convictions?
• Your responsibilities.
• Help, support and advice that is available.

Who should attend? This workshop is for anyone who works or volunteers for a voluntary and community group and is responsible for processing DBS checks, or supervises or manages others.

Cost: The cost is £10 per person which covers refreshments and printed materials. Ticket will go on sale when ther rescheduled event is announced.

In the second of our series of interactive Zoom sessions, we will be looking at how your charity or community group might adapt/continue to adapt your services to deliver these online due to the current restrictions on meeting in person. This session would be useful for Trustees or Managers of charities or community groups in Reading and will include an an opportunity to discuss ideas with others in the sector.

The session will include:

1. Introduction and governance updates.
2. Speaker: Ruth Pearse, CEO of Parenting Special Children, on how the charity adapted its services to provide these online and the thinking that went on behind this in the team and at Board level.
3. Speaker: David Neale from Reading Voluntary Action on top tips in using Zoom. David manages the Get Online project in Reading.
4. Break-out sessions to discuss the above and your own ideas with other trustees and managers.
5. Q&A with the panel and wrap up

The session will give you plenty of time to discuss in the break-out sessions and we hope you’ll go away with some ideas and pointers on what your group may be able to do to adapt to providing services online in the mid-term.

Please note that the session will be available for a maximum of 10 attendees to enable as much interaction as possible and we ask that a maximum of 2 people attend from one charity or community group. If there is further demand, we can hold another session.

We look forward to seeing you on Zoom. If you are unsure on how to use Zoom, take a look at this free video tutorial and don’t worry if this will be your first Zoom session, we’ll talk you through it so you can take part.

Please book online at www.eventbrite.co.uk.

All organisations, including charities and community groups, have a responsibility to safeguard the personal data of service users, staff, volunteers, contractors and anyone whose personal data they collect or use in the delivery of their services.

This 1 hour online course will cover:

• Data sharing and the law.
• What does data sharing mean?
• What is the difference between ‘systematic’, ‘ad hoc’ and ‘one off’ data sharing?
• What factors to consider when deciding to share personal data.
• How can you demonstrate fairness and transparency to individuals when sharing personal data about them?
• What security considerations should you take into account before sharing personal data?
• Data sharing agreements, what are they and when should they be used.
• Respecting individual’s rights.
• What to avoid.

This is an accredited course and you will receive a certificate upon completion.

Who should attend? Anyone who works or volunteers in a charity or community group who shares personal data with others outside of your organisation. For example if you work in partnership with other organisations or receive or make referrals to other organisation. You might be a volunteer, staff member or trustee.

Cost: RVA has partnered with Databasix to offer a subsidised training offer to those working or volunteering for charities and community groups in Reading. The session is £10. Please book online at www.eventbrite.co.uk.

Berkshire Vision are a local charity who offer vital practical support and activities to adults and children with visual impairment.

We are offering a training session on Sight Loss and Eye Health and this is now open to the general public. This takes the form of an informative video by our trustee Jane Veys, who is an optometrist, and an opportunity for comments afterwards.

The training lasts approximately 45 minutes and is free. Anyone can book onto our sessions by emailing volunteering@berkshirevision.org.uk.

We look forward to welcoming you.

Berkshire Vision are a local charity who offer vital practical support and activities to adults and children with visual impairment.

We are offering a training session on Sight Loss and Eye Health and this is now open to the general public. This takes the form of an informative video by our trustee Jane Veys, who is an optometrist, and an opportunity for comments afterwards.

The training lasts approximately 45 minutes and is free. Anyone can book onto our sessions by emailing volunteering@berkshirevision.org.uk.

We look forward to welcoming you.

Berkshire Vision are a local charity who offer vital practical support and activities to adults and children with visual impairment.

We are offering a training session on Sight Loss and Eye Health and this is now open to the general public. This takes the form of an informative video by our trustee Jane Veys, who is an optometrist, and an opportunity for comments afterwards.

The training lasts approximately 45 minutes and is free. Anyone can book onto our sessions by emailing volunteering@berkshirevision.org.uk.

We look forward to welcoming you.

Get Berkshire Active are offering a free ‘Helping people become more physically active’ workshop on Tuesday 8th June to enhance individuals skills to encourage behaviour change and support people affected by the pandemic.

Being physically active has never been more important. We all play a role in encouraging and empowering others to become active whether that's through signposting to resources, talking about the benefits, or simply encouragement.

The workshop will cover:
-Benefits of being physically active
-National guidelines and practical tips
-Key signposting resources – including local opportunities in Reading
-How to have positive conversations about being more active
-NEW – a 1-to-1 advice service available for older adults who have been inactive during COVID-19 and need support (pilot)

All attendees will take away a free digital resource pack, CPD certificate and find out how to access further free training available such as Making Every Contact Count.

Free event but please register at https://getberkshireactive.org/events to confirm your place.

For more information contact: Casey.Dunlop@getberkshireactive.org

Following our well attended session in March, we’re holding another online Trustee Training session. These sessions have been adapted to take place via Zoom but you will still have the opportunity to interact with fellow trustees in the sector.

Trustees play an essential role in our society, making our charity sector work. It’s a hugely rewarding role but it’s not always easy to get all the information you require to be sure you are carrying out your role as effectively as possible. This training will help give you an overview of what’s expected of trustees as well as providing a networking opportunity with your fellow trustees from the area.

Outcomes of this training are:

• To better understand your role and legal responsibilities as a trustee
• To understand how this role fits with other roles in the charity
• To understand your reporting responsibilities
• To know where to go for help and support
• To feel confident in being an active member of your Board/Committee and helping to achieve your charities purposes

To achieve this we will cover:

• Introduction: ‘Trustee’, ‘Charity’ and legal structures
• Trustee roles and responsibilities: 6 Main Legal Duties
• Policies and Procedures: Which ones? Why do they matter?
• Accounting & Reporting – the essentials
• Essential resources and links to help you on your way (Tools)

The training is suitable for new and existing trustees. In some small community groups you may refer to yourselves as the Committee. If you have overall responsibility for your community group, then this course is for you.

Places are limited to a maximum of 4 people from one organisation to ensure you have the opportunity to interact with trustees from other organisations too. If you wish to book more than 4 places please contact us in advance. We hold these sessions quarterly.

Please book online at www.eventbrite.co.uk. The cost is £10. Further registration details and meeting link will be circulated nearer the time.

Contact details
Email: training@rva.org.uk
Phone: 01189 372273

Trustees play an essential role in our society, making our charity sector work. It’s a hugely rewarding role but it’s not always easy to get all the information you require to be sure you are carrying out your role as effectively as possible. This training will help give you an overview of what’s expected of trustees as well as providing a networking opportunity with your fellow trustees from the area.

Outcomes of this training are:

• To better understand your role and legal responsibilities as a trustee
• To understand how this role fits with other roles in the charity
• To understand your reporting responsibilities
• To know where to go for help and support
• To feel confident in being an active member of your Board/Committee and helping to achieve your charities purposes!

To achieve this we will cover:

• Introduction: ‘Trustee’, ‘Charity’ and legal structures
• Trustee roles and responsibilities: 6 Main Legal Duties
• Policies and Procedures: Which ones? Why do they matter?
• Accounting & Reporting – the essentials
• Essential resources and links to help you on your way (Tools)

The training is suitable for new and existing trustees. In some small community groups you may refer to yourselves as the Committee. If you have overall responsibility for your community group, then this course is for you.

Places are limited to a maximum of 4 people from one organisation to ensure you have the opportunity to interact with trustees from other organisations too. If you wish to book more than 4 places please contact us in advance. We hold these sessions quarterly.

Due to popular demand and for ease of access, this will take place online from 17:15 – 19:45 with a short comfort break in the middle.

The cost is £10. Please book online at www.eventbrite.co.uk or contact training@rva.org.uk if you have any questions.

Abbey Square, Reading, RG1 3BQ

Are you new to being a treasurer of a charity or community group in Reading, or considering taking on the role? If so, this training is for you. RVA can also help match you to a volunteer treasurer role if you are not yet volunteering in a role.

Aims of the workshop

• To build an understanding of the role of a treasurer in a small voluntary organisation.
• To ensure the ability to deal with the specifics of the finances of a small voluntary organisation.
• To give confidence about the issues that are likely to be faced by a treasurer of a small voluntary organisation.

Learning outcomes - The content covered will be tailored depending on the needs of delegates on the day. However typically attendees will:

• Understand their financial responsibilities as trustees.
• Understand the particular requirements for the accounts of a small voluntary organisation.
• Be aware of governance issues facing small voluntary organisations.
• Be ready to resolve issues with record keeping and know where to get help if they need it.
• Be able to determine if the organisation they volunteer with needs an audit or independent examination of their accounts.

The training session will be open to up to 12 delegates. It will be aimed primarily at volunteer Treasurers of registered charities in Reading, but will also be suitable for volunteers who are stepping up to the role.

We have secured a reduced rate of £40 for Reading based charities and community groups. We would like to offer this training in person at Reading Central Library, however if this is impractical for attendees it will be online via Microsoft Teams. There will be an option during booking to express your preference and we will notify delegates in advance of the delivery location/method.

Please register at www.eventbrite.co.uk.

Compass Recovery College are commencing their free voluntary sector mental health and wellbeing training in January, these workshops are open access to staff, volunteers and befrienders alike. Throughout the pandemic volunteers and community groups have been vital in supporting those who need it, Compass recognises the importance of this work and wants to give back to those who do so much for others. The goal of this free training is to boost voluntary sector mental health and wellbeing knowledge and help those supporting others to take control of their own mental well-being.

We would like to continue developing this training based on the needs and interests of the voluntary and community sector. If you have any experiences or interests we can help with please contact Ashley at ashley.hitchman@reading.gov.uk to discuss future opportunities.

Self-care: In this wellbeing session we will use yoga tools and practices, such as breathing, movement and self-massage to care for ourselves. We will listen to our needs as supporters with kindness and begin to care for those needs as a priority both for ourselves and the people we support.

Registration: If you are interested in attending the above workshop please use this sign up form forms.office.com/r/G2XzCBvznz.

Compass Recovery College are commencing their free voluntary sector mental health and wellbeing training in January, these workshops are open access to staff, volunteers and befrienders alike. The goal of this free training is to boost voluntary sector mental health and wellbeing knowledge and help those supporting others to take control of their own mental well-being.

Professional boundaries: This session explores how voluntary sector staff and volunteers can set professional boundaries when working with mental health challenges. These boundaries can support our work and provide a safe and secure environment from which to work with our service users. These sessions will support us to be mindful of when it is appropriate to self-disclose, the danger of too much self-disclosure and the risks of transference and counter transference. The aim is to enable service users to take charge of their wellbeing by providing opportunities for growth and self-development.

We would like to continue developing this training based on the needs and interests of the voluntary and community sector. If you have any experiences or interests we can help with please contact Ashley at ashley.hitchman@reading.gov.uk to discuss future opportunities.

If you are interested in attending the above workshop please register here: forms.office.com/r/G2XzCBvznz.

The Cranfield Trust are offering a free introductory webinar on Problem Tree Analysis and the Theory of Change to charity trustees, managers and leaders.

We all face problems trying to achieve our organisational goals, big and small. But how do you tackle them? What strategy is likely to be most successful? If a problem seems too large or complex to handle, where do you start looking for solutions?

Solving problems isn’t always easy. It can be difficult to understand the root causes of a problem and how they impact different parts of your organisation. But with a clearer understanding of what’s causing the problem, you can start to form a theory of change.

This is a 1-hour introductory webinar, you will learn practical techniques and tools to help you with your strategy, decision-making, monitoring and evaluation, as well as communication, so you can see the big picture—and make decisions with confidence.

You will build knowledge on:

• Exploring and articulating problems, their causes and effects by using problem tree analyses;
• The basics of what is meant by a theory of change;
• The different shapes it can take;
• The process of developing one and pitfalls to avoid;
• Choosing an approach that works for you.

Book your place with the Cranfield Trust directly through this link.

Berkshire Vision offer a training session on Sight Loss and Eye Health, which is now open to the general public. This takes the form of an informative video by our Trustee, Jane Veys, an Optometrist and an opportunity for any comments afterwards.

The training lasts approximately 45 minutes and is free. Book onto this session by emailing volunteering@berkshirevision.org.uk.

A flyer for this training can be downloaded here.

Getting on Board is offering affordable onboarding induction training for newly appointed trustees on various dates in 2022. Sessions will take place online and they are offered at a very affordable rate of £10 per session.

Details of the session from Getting on Board
In this one hour session, we’ll take you through your trustee duties in a clear and engaging way. There will be a chance to ask questions and we’ll signpost you to further support. This session is also suitable as a refresher for existing trustees.

By the end of this introductory webinar you will understand:

• The role of a trustee
• The main duties and responsibilities of a trustee
• How to carry out your trusteeship duties effectively

2022 dates:

• Wednesday 16 March, 17:30-18:30
• Wednesday 27 April, 17:30-18:30
• Wednesday 18 May, 17:30-18:30

Please register online at www.eventbrite.co.uk to book your place or email info@gettingonboard.org.

Further support from RVA

• RVA free Advice Service for 1:1 confidential advice on legal and governance matters, including advice on trustee roles and responsibilities. Please email advice@rva.org.uk or telephone us on 0118 937 2273.
• RVA Knowledge Base, which has a wealth of resources on trusteeship and governance that you can browse at your convenience.

Our free course will prepare you for job applications in the digital age and help you upskill for work itself. Running from 21 March, Mondays and Wednesdays, for 6 weeks, with a 2-week Easter break. Learn new skills, gain confidence, write a brilliant CV.

We are a small charity in Reading and our online course is for anyone struggling with barriers to employment in Berkshire. We support people with disabilities, learning difficulties, gaps in their CV, for example. So if you feel that applying for work is a struggle and that you need support then get in touch, we are happy to answer any questions that you have.

Join us for help with your CV, we will teach you how to think about your strengths and weaknesses and put your best foot forward with renewed confidence. Lessons in Word, Excel and further to help you get work when every job has an element of it where technology is used.

With some homework each week, the course is either online or if you have no access to the internet, at our office in Reading centre. Our mantra is for you to ‘know yourself’, you will be more prepared for job searching and interviews no matter your barrier to employment.

For more information or to sign up please contact Graft Thames Valley using the details below.

Contact details
Email: info@graft.org.uk
Phone: 01183 805950

Berkshire Vision offer a training session on Sight Loss and Eye Health, which is now open to the general public. This takes the form of an informative video by our Trustee, Jane Veys, an Optometrist and an opportunity for any comments afterwards.

The training lasts approximately 45 minutes and is free. Book onto this session by emailing volunteering@berkshirevision.org.uk.

A flyer for this training can be downloaded here.

Getting on Board is offering affordable onboarding induction training for newly appointed trustees on various dates in 2022. Sessions will take place online and are free to attend with an option to make a donation of your choice at checkout.

Details of the session from Getting on Board
In this one hour session, we’ll take you through your trustee duties in a clear and engaging way. There will be a chance to ask questions and we’ll signpost you to further support. This session is also suitable as a refresher for existing trustees.

By the end of this introductory webinar you will understand:

• The role of a trustee
• The main duties and responsibilities of a trustee
• How to carry out your trusteeship duties effectively

Please register online at www.eventbrite.co.uk to book your place or email info@gettingonboard.org.

Getting on Board is offering affordable onboarding induction training for newly appointed trustees on various dates in 2022. Sessions will take place online and are free to attend with an option to make a donation of your choice at checkout.

Details of the session from Getting on Board
In this one hour session, we’ll take you through your trustee duties in a clear and engaging way. There will be a chance to ask questions and we’ll signpost you to further support. This session is also suitable as a refresher for existing trustees.

By the end of this introductory webinar you will understand:

• The role of a trustee
• The main duties and responsibilities of a trustee
• How to carry out your trusteeship duties effectively

Please register online at www.eventbrite.co.uk to book your place or email info@gettingonboard.org.

The GDPR expects organisations to keep their teams up to date with best practice for compliance with the regulations. Keeping the GDPR front of mind is essential and made even more relevant as changes take place to ways of working, communication and technology.

This session is ideal as a ‘refresher’ or part of annual training for people who already have a baseline knowledge of the GDPR. It explains the practical implications of processing personal data as part of your everyday role, and understanding the risks with handling and storing personal data.

Learning Outcomes:

• An explanation of what is personal data and special categories of personal data that voluntary sectors organisations typically.
• An Introduction to the principles of the GDPR, providing relevant examples.
• An explanation of how voluntary sector organisations can demonstrate that they are being fair, lawful and transparent with the personal data they are processing.
• An explanation of what needs to be considered when the person whose data you want to collect needs to give their consent.
• An explanation of when a voluntary sector organisation can rely upon legitimate interests for processing personal data.
• How to understand and respect the rights of the person whose data you are collecting, in particular how to respond to requests.
• What operational and technical security measures you need to follow when processing personal data, including working remotely.
• How to keep personal data safe and secure, including good password management, identifying phishing scams, how to delete/shred data.
• The importance of data protection impact assessments when introducing a new system into the organisation.
• How and when to report a personal data breach.

Who should attend: Anyone who works or volunteers in a charity or community group who processes the personal data of others. You might be a volunteer, staff member or trustee.

Cost: RVA has partnered with Databasix to offer subsidised training to those working or volunteering for charities and community groups in Reading. The session is £18.00 per person. This offer is restricted to groups in Reading.

Please book online at www.eventbrite.co.uk, or contact asha.mehboob@rva.org.uk for further information and to book your place.

Are you a school, charity or Non-profit?

Connect Reading are proud to announce a new partnership with WhatImpact making social value partnerships and match-making much easier than before.

Whatimpact is the social value platform that:

• Connects your organisation with companies and grantmakers aligned with your cause and goals.
• Provides transparent data on the impact made, validating your efforts and helping you to find new donors for future projects.
• Streamlines grant applications to alleviate the burden of paperwork.
• Generates project video greetings which you can share publicly to increase awareness of your work.

WhatImpact will be taking you through the platform, showing you just how easy grant-giving can be and how to bring social value into the everyday of your organisation.

Please register online at: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/pitch-your-ask-with-whatimpact

59 Church St, Caversham RG4 8AX

The course is organised by Sport in Mind, facilitated by an experienced walk leader and trainer and includes a short demonstration walk. It covers all the basic skills of walk leading including: choosing an appropriate route; qualities of a good walk leader and what to do before, during and after the walk.

We will focus on building confidence, knowledge, and skills to lead a short walk on easy terrain, for all abilities. There will be some pre-course reading and e-learning, which the session will bring to life and build on.

For details and registration please email PAMHPartnership@reading.gov.uk

This session organised by Compass Recovery College explores how voluntary sector staff and volunteers can set professional boundaries when working with mental health challenges. These boundaries can support our work and provide a safe and secure environment from which to work with our service users.

The session will support us to be mindful of when it is appropriate to self-disclose, the danger of too much self-disclosure and the risks of transference and counter transference. The aim is to enable service users to take charge of their wellbeing by providing opportunities for growth and self-development.

Please register for this event using the online booking form.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading, RG1 3BQ

Whether behind the scenes in an administrative role or working directly with clients, volunteers play a vital role in supporting the work of organisations across our town. For many organisations, without the work of volunteers, it would not be possible for them to deliver the services they provide in the way they do.

Given the central role that volunteers play in allowing organisations to achieve their objectives, it is perhaps surprising that many of those responsible for managing volunteers receive little or no specialised training.

This 1 day interactive session is designed to provide an overview of some of the key aspects to consider when involving volunteers in the work of your organisation, including:

• First steps – a volunteer recruitment checklist.
• Understanding volunteers’ desires – what motivates people to volunteer?
• Standing out from the crowd – promoting your opportunities effectively.
• Welcome aboard – integrating volunteers into your team and managing workloads.
• Keeping it legal – exploring legal aspects of involving volunteers in your work.
• Staying the course – keeping volunteers engaged and adapting to changing circumstances/ needs.

Who should attend: This course is ideally suited to anyone who has responsibility for overseeing the work of volunteers, either as a Volunteer Manager or as part of a more wide-reaching role.

Ideal for those new to working with volunteers or for those looking for a refresher, the session will provide opportunities to put theory into practice by giving opportunities to explore your own organisation’s needs.

Cost and what is included: The cost is £10 for a full day and includes refreshments, a light lunch and materials.

Please book online at www.eventbrite.co.uk, or contact RVA at volunteering@rva.org.uk if you have any questions.

This FREE webinar looks to share information and discuss the topic around the importance of physical activity and managing long term health conditions.

The benefits of taking part in physical activity far “outweigh the risks” for people living with long-term health conditions, it is believed that one in four people in the UK live with a long-term health condition, and those in this group are twice as likely to be inactive, despite evidence that being active can help manage many conditions and reduce the impact and severity of some symptoms.

However, we know that there are many barriers to becoming active for those living with a long-term health condition – including fears that physical activity may worsen their symptoms, requirements to gain medical clearance prior to increasing activity levels and that all pain is considered bad.

This webinar aims to break down these barriers by clarifying fundamental safety considerations and bridging the gap between evidence, clinical and public health guidelines and people's lived experience.

There will be insight from key industry experts!

Speakers:

• Professor Mike Hurley – Emeritus Professor, Population Health Research Institute, St George’s University of London, Emeritus Professor, Kingston University & Clinical Director, ESCAPE-pain, Orthopaedic Research UK
• Andrew Bennet – National Clinical Director MSK Conditions NHS England
• Steph Smith GLL Healthy Communities Manager – Reading
• Duncan Coleman – GLL Heathwise manager
• Francesca Thomson – Education and Events Manager (ESCAPE-pain)
• Peter Dutton – Activation Manager We Are Undefeatable, Influencing, Brand and Content

To aid future networking we will be sharing a delegate list with attendees. When booking you will be asked if you are happy for your contact details to be shared and to provide a brief overview of your organisation for inclusion in the list.

We hope you can join us!

Please book online at https://getberkshireactive.org to confirm your place.

Abbey Square, Reading, RG1 3BQ

We are pleased to say that our popular trustee training is back!

Trustees play an essential role in our society, making our charity sector work. It’s a hugely rewarding role but it’s not always easy to get all the information you require to be sure you are carrying out your role as effectively as possible. This training will help give you an overview of what’s expected of trustees as well as providing a networking opportunity with your fellow trustees from the area.

Outcomes of this training are:

• To better understand your role and legal responsibilities as a trustee
• To understand how this role fits with other roles in the charity
• To understand your reporting responsibilities
• To know where to go for help and support
• To feel confident in being an active member of your Board/Committee and helping to achieve your charities purposes

To achieve this we will cover:

• Introduction: ‘Trustee’, ‘Charity’ and legal structures
• Trustee roles and responsibilities: 6 Main Legal Duties
• Policies and Procedures: Which ones? Why do they matter?
• Accounting & Reporting – the essentials
• Essential resources and links to help you on your way

The training is suitable for new and existing trustees. In some small community groups you may refer to yourselves as the Committee. If you have overall responsibility for your community group, then this course is for you.

The session will be held in person in the RVA training room, 3rd Floor, Reading Central Library. There is no parking onsite but the Central Library is easily accessed vis public transport. Nearby car parks are Queens Road and the Oracle. The cost is £10. Please book online at www.eventbrite.co.uk.

This online workshop from compass Recovery College is designed to provide psychoeducational information on depression and how to manage it. It will focus on:

• Understanding the different symptoms and manifestations of depression
• The importance of self-care
• Understanding and challenging unhelpful negative thoughts
• Behavioural activation and the importance of planning activities.

Please visit forms.office.com/r/4fEu55LScT for the booking form.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQ

Are you new to being a treasurer of a charity or community group in Reading, or considering taking on the role? If so, this training is for you.

Aims of the workshop

• To build an understanding of the role of a treasurer in a small voluntary organisation
• To ensure the ability to deal with the specifics of the finances of a small voluntary organisation
• To give confidence about the issues that are likely to be faced by a treasurer of a small voluntary organisation

Learning outcomes - The content covered will be tailored depending on the needs of delegates on the day. However typically attendees will:

• Understand their financial responsibilities as trustees
• Understand the particular requirements for the accounts of a small voluntary organisation
• Be aware of governance issues facing small voluntary organisations
• Be ready to resolve issues with record keeping and know where to get help if they need it
• Be able to determine if the organisation they volunteer with needs an audit or independent examination of their accounts

The training session will be open to up to 12 delegates. It will be aimed primarily at volunteer Treasurers of registered charities in Reading, but will also be suitable for volunteers who are stepping up to the role.

We have secured a reduced rate of £50 for Reading based charities and community groups. This includes printed course materials, refreshments and one hour of follow up support. The session will be delivered in person in the RVA training room, Third Floor, Central Library.

Please register online at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/treasurer-training-tickets-608273982857.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading, RG1 3BQ

Does your charity offer services or activities to adults in Reading? If so, come along to this free training.

All charities, voluntary and community groups have a duty to keep their service users safe from harm. As most charities and community groups run through the hard work and dedication of volunteers, it is important that volunteers as well as paid staff receive basic safeguarding training.

This training will cover:

• Basic information on safeguarding adults
• Current guidance for safeguarding adults under the Care Act 2014
• Types of abuse and how to recognise abuse: the signs and symptoms
• What to do when you recognise abuse: the referral process
• The importance of a multi-agency approach to safeguarding adults
• Safe practice

Who should attend? Anyone who works or volunteers with a charity, community or voluntary sector group in Reading, whose work or volunteering brings them into contact with children or young people in whatever circumstances, whether they are new to the role or require a refresher.

Practicalities: The training will take place in the RVA Training Room, Third Floor, Central Library. Registration and arrival from 09:45. The session will start promptly at 10:00. The library opens at 10:00, please come to to the rear door of the library and use the intercom. Refreshments are provided.

Free event, but please book online at www.eventbrite.co.uk to confirm your place. We hope to see you there.

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading, RG1 3BQ

First Steps towards Safe and Sound is a free tool available to all voluntary and community groups offering services in Reading, who wish to take the first steps towards having good governance in place. Come along to our May introduction session and find out how to get started and what the benefits are for your group.

This session should be attended by either a manager or trustee of your group. More than one person from your group is welcome to attend but we would suggest a maximum of three so that there are enough spaces for all.

This is a 1 hour lunchtime session and will include:
1. An overview of First Steps towards Safe and Sound, what it is, the benefits, resources & support from RVA, how to get started and what you receive after completing this.
2. Introduction to First Steps towards engaging Volunteers.
3. Introduction to First Steps towards Inclusion.
4. Further resources and support.

Book your free space online at www.eventbrite.co.uk.

Please note that this session will take place in-person in the Library. If you prefer to attend an online session instead, please take a look at alternative dates on our training page.

We look forward to seeing you then.

RVA Team

Third Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading, RG1 3BQ

Trustees play an essential role in our society, making our charity sector work. It’s a hugely rewarding role but it’s not always easy to get all the information you require to be sure you are carrying out your role as effectively as possible. This training will help give you an overview of what’s expected of trustees as well as providing a networking opportunity with your fellow trustees from the area.

Outcomes of this training are:

• To better understand your role and legal responsibilities as a trustee
• To understand how this role fits with other roles in the charity
• To understand your reporting responsibilities
• To know where to go for help and support
• To feel confident in being an active member of your Board/Committee and helping to achieve your charities purposes

To achieve this we will cover:

• Introduction: ‘Trustee’, ‘members’ and others
• Trustee responsibilities: 6 Main Legal Duties
• Limiting liability and legal structures
• Effective board leadership and trustee roles
• Essential resources and links to help you on your way

The training is suitable for new and existing trustees. In some small community groups you may refer to yourselves as the Committee. If you have overall responsibility for your community group, then this course is for you.

Practicalities:
Registration and arrival from 09:45. Cost £10 – refreshments included. There is no parking onsite but the Central Library is easily accessed vis public transport. Nearby car parks are Queens Road and the Oracle. There are also some disabled parking spots outside the library. Please contact us in advance if you have access needs.

Please book online at www.eventbrite.co.uk.

Contact details: Reading Voluntary Action (RVA)
Email: training@rva.org.uk
Phone: 01189 372273