THE MAGAZINE OF GVS (GLAMORGAN VOLUNTARY SERVICES)

Y Gaeaf 2016 CYLCHGRAWN GVS (GWASANAETHAU GWIRFODDOL MORGANNWG)

Winter 2016

IN THIS EDITION

World Champion joins GVS

GVS has surplus office items some of

which are free (see back cover)

8 pages of Sustainable Funding News

on GVS MembersLIGHTSPOT

See pages 7 - 10

Glamorgan Voluntary Services (GVS) is a Company Limited by Guarantee(No. 9517850) Registered in England and Wales, and Registered Charity No. 1163193

GVS is funded by:

The Welsh Government;The Vale of Glamorgan Council;Cardiff & Vale University Health Board; The Big Lottery Fund;European Regional DevelopmentFund.

Please send your articles, letters orinformation for the Spring editionto Mark Stillman (Editor) by1st April 2016. The publication is due outby 15th April 2016.

The opinions expressed in this newsletterare not necessarily those of GVS. Wereserve the right to edit for publication.

© All rights reserved

Do you have a flyer or information sheet that you would like us to send out with thismagazine? Contact us for a quotation andto arrange distribution.

Telephone: 01446 741706Fax: 01446 421442E-mail: mark@gvs.wales

GVS address and hours of opening (main office):

GVS, Barry Community Enterprise Centre, Skomer Road, Barry CF62 9DAMonday - Friday 10.00 am - 4.00 pm

Anyone wishing to arrive outside of these times should contact GVS to arrange anappointment.

GVS is dedicated to aprocess of continuousimprovement, usingthe PQASSO qualitymodel for evaluation. We welcome yourcomments and suggestions.

Office Closures:

26 January 2016 - Staff meeting (10am - 1pm) 23 March 2016 - Staff meeting (10am - 1pm) 25 March 2016 - Bank Holiday28 March 2016 - Bank Holiday

Empowering people. Inspiring excellence. Strengthening communities.

GVS is committed to delivering a high quality service. If you feel that that we have notmet this standard a copy of our complaints procedure can be can be obtained bycontacting our office, or visiting our website www.gvs.wales and clicking on the ‘Contact’ tab on the top navigation bar.

Welcome to theWinter edition ofGVS magazine.

Contributions in Welshlanguage or bi-lingualarticles or letters, arewelcome.

2 Crowdfunding

3 GVS’ latest recruit

4 Top 10volunteeringopportunities

5 GVS Networks &Forums

6 GVS out on theroad

7 Amelia Trust Farm

8 Motion ControlDance

9 Green Days project

10 CAOS MusicalSociety

11 GVS Training

16 NewLink Training

17 Christmas cheercomes to the Vale

18 Friends &Neighbours

19 What’s On

20 11th Barry SeaScout Group

22 FriendlyAdvantAGEcelebration event

24 Recovery Cymru

25 Senior Health Shop

Back Cover Surplus office

storage items

Supplement Sustainable

Funding News

Winter 2016

We look forward to receivingyour news, views andsuggestions.

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Photocopying price increase kept toa minimum by GVS

With paper prices increasing year on year and after no pricerise in two years, GVS will have to reluctantly raise itsphotocopying and printing charges with immediate effect. A third of the prices will remain the same and there will be noincrease in our ink charges.

Examples of the price increases are below:

100 copies of single sided black ink on A4 white 80gsmpaper is now £2.30 (which is only 2.3p per copy, previously2p per copy)

100 copies of single sided colour ink on A4 white 80gsmpaper is now £6.80 (which is only 6.8p per copy, previously6.7p per copy)

Even with these price increases you will be very hard pressedto find anywhere cheaper than GVS for your printing needs.

If you are a member group or are considering joining GVSand would like a quote, please contact Mark Stillman at GVS,e-mail: mark@gvs.wales or tel: 01446 741706.

Voluntary groups approved for GVS Membership

GVS welcomed seven new groups into membership.They are:

All Saints Church, Parish of Barry Barry Community Tennis Club Barry Round Table

Emmaus South Wales Glamorgan Artistic Roller Skating Club Heronsbridge Special School Charity Southerndown Cricket and Social Club

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How Crowdfunding has helped fund a film

You may have heard the term “crowdfunding” asan alternative to raising funds for yourorganisation or project. Crowdfunding is a uniqueand potentially rewarding opportunity forvoluntary organisations.

Crowdfunding campaigns can give voluntaryorganisations the opportunity to raise moneyonline. By campaign, we mean a project on acrowdfunding website that tells everyone what theorganisation is fundraising for and why. Theorganisation then shares it as widely as possible –using online and offline marketing techniques to encourage supporters to make financial pledges to the cause.

You’ll need a clear idea of what you want to fund, great messaging to communicate youridea, a fundraising target and a timeframe in which to meet it.

To find out more about crowdfunding in practice, Clive Curtis met award winning Indian Film Director Rohan Kanawade during a recent visit to Wales. Rohan’s latest film, “Sundar”, was showcased at the Iris Prize festival in Cardiff. Clive asked him a few questions about his experience with crowdfunding.

Clive: Can you tell me something about your film “Sundar”? Rohan: “Sundar” is a crowdfunded film. “Sundar” means Beautiful in English. It all started when I wrote a short story about a youngguy who wants to play “dandiya” (folk dance) at Navaratri (Hindufestival lasting nine days) but is not allowed to go. During the lastnight of the festival he manages to go. Why he's not allowed to gois the plot.

The story was inspired from a real life character whom I used to notice every year duringNavaratri in my locality. The guy was quite feminine, hence his dance moves were feminine,expressions were feminine. The boys would mock him. The crowd would laugh at him. Yethe, every year, came at least for a night to dance. I must say he was courageous, anddidn't let the crowd's reaction affect him. However, I used to think that just by his feminine behaviour people are mocking him so much, what would happen if he cross-dresses? That'swhen I wrote “Sundar”.

Clive: Why did you choose "crowdfunding" to fund the production of the film? Rohan: After I finished writing the short story, I read it to one of my friends and he said that the story was written in a cinematic way and why don't I make a film out of it? I pondered that suggestion. Then wrote a screenplay. Then decided to make a film. And there was the big question: FUNDING! At first I approached a few people whom I knew, they turned me down. Then some other people whom my friends knew. They did the same. I knew aboutIndian crowdfunding platforms, so we thought why not try that? It's okay if we don't find a producer, what if our own friends fund our film on the crowdfunding site? Also, there're many people out there who like to watch films other than Bollywood, and if given a chance maybe even they could contribute some amount. That is why we opted for crowdfunding.

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Clive: How did you manage the process?Rohan: Well, it took time, thought and energy, believe me! Almost half a day would gobehind posting links of the campaign on different social media websites, sending emails to personal contacts, phoning people, texting people! Our campaign was for 39 days. If atthe end of 39th day we didn't raise the target amount all the money raised would have togo back to the givers. It was an all or nothing policy.

Clive: What did you learn from your experience, and would you do anything differently next time?Rohan: There are good people out there willing to give. I'm thankful to those who believed

in me and my project and helped generously. I'm thankful to those who helped me during

the shoot. I'm thankful to my team who'd stay awake till 3 or 4 in the morning.

Crowdfunding will help you, if you have good people backing you, you can raise any amount

to reach to your goal! The film has won at international film festivals across the globe, and

I’m still being asked if donations are needed.

GVS is privileged to have World Champion GymnastMartin Vick on the team

“Hi I’m Martin, I volunteer with GVS and I love it”.

Martin recently joined Glamorgan VoluntaryServices. He leads a very active life, is part of theHi-Jinx theatre company and has performed allover Europe. Martin is a gymnast and hastravelled to the USA representing the UK,winning three gold and four silver medals in theWorld Championships. He currently volunteerswith the Vale of Glamorgan Gymnastics Club,helping to train young gymnasts. Even with allthis volunteering, Martin wanted to dosomething different. Martin said “I do stapling, shredding, labelling,filing, laminating and other admin duties that are required. It’s been a dream to work in GVS andI’m learning a lot. I shared Christmascelebrations with the GVS team and it waslovely. I’ve got to know the people in theorganisation better. I think GVS does great workand if you’re thinking of volunteering, it’s a goodidea as it gives you new skills and you meet newpeople”.

GVS can help you find the perfect volunteering opportunity. Pop into our Holton Road office, call 01446 741706, e-mail volunteering@gvs.wales or visit www.gvs.wales

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Empowering people. Inspiring excellence. Strengthening communities.

Top 10 Volunteering opportunities

Pact Subsidiary, Pact Future delivers a combination of 1-1 case work foroffenders resettling from prison into the community and drop-in support groups. To deliver this project we require a team of Through the Gate volunteer mentors.Ref 453

1Would you like to help with the“Shine” childcare project? Youwould support interaction at stayand play sessions throughmeaningful play. Ref 379

Interested in outdoorvolunteering? You can helpwith gardening, conservationprojects etc.Ref 741/396/825

3Help to raise funds for life limitedchildren by volunteering in ourcharity shop. You can help withsteaming, tagging, sorting,window displays, use of the tilland customer service. Ref 227

4Would you like to teach first aid? As an event first aid tutor you will provide first aid and life saving training tothose who would like to learnthe skill. Ref 761

5Home Visiting Volunteers arerequired to support local familieswithin the Cardiff area with at least one child under the age of five, requiring emotional or practicalsupport, friendship and a listeningear. Ref 491

6Support the RNLI!We are looking forvolunteers to help in theBarry Island Visitor Centre,helping with customerservice, stock display,replenishment. Ref 384

7Support individuals engaged inaffiliated substance misuse projects. This could include buddying/befriending, social diversionaryactivities, drop-in centres, criminaljustice work. Ref 172

8Barry Sea Cadets arelooking for volunteers totrain their young peoplein seamanship,adventure, boating.Ref 21

9Neighbourhood Resolution Panels and Community Panels bring localcommunities together, using restorative and reparative approaches to agreeresolutions that can be achieved to move forward. Ref 89310

To volunteer for any of these opportunities please contact GVSvisit www.gvs.wales, e-mail volunteering@gvs.wales or call 01446 741706

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GVS Network and ForumsHighly beneficial information for the Voluntary Sector and its partners

Vale Health, Social Care and Wellbeing Network

The next Vale Health, Social Care and Wellbeing Network meeting will be on 2nd March2016.

If you would like to book a place, please contact Ceri Venners,Tel: 01446 741706 or e-mail: ceri@gvs.wales

Vale Voluntary Action and Community Development Network (VVACDN)

The next Vale Voluntary Action and Community Development Network (VVACDN) meetingwill be held on Tuesday 22nd March 2016 at Elfed Avenue United Church, Penarth from10am to noon. Three speakers have been confirmed covering topics about Scams Awareness, Hate Crime and Discrimination and the Vale Family Information Service thatwill be of interest to groups in the Vale. At the last VVACDN held in November membersheard interesting and informative presentations about the work of the Communities Firstteam in Barry and the welfare activity carried out by Barry RAFA personnel.

To join the network please contact Dave Edwards on 01446 741706 or e-maildave@gvs.wales

Vale Trustee Network

To book a place at the Spring Networkmeeting (date to be confirmed), please contact Clive Curtis, Tel: 01446741706 or e-mail: clive@gvs.wales

Vale Housing andHomelessness Forum

To book a place at the next meeting (date tobe confirmed), please contact Kris Rees, Tel:01446 741706 or e-mail: kris@gvs.wales

Free to loan for GVS Members

Our loan equipment service offers free equipment loan to member organisationswhich includes:

Digital projector Sound system Digital camera Overhead projector Overhead screens Display boards Flipchart easel Flip Video iPads*

Galaxy tablets* Kindle Fire* Laptops*

*Terms and conditions apply, short loanperiod only.

If any voluntary or community groupwould like to borrow any of the aboveequipment or find out more about the benefits of membership please contact Mark Stillman at GVS, tel: 01446 741706e-mail: mark@gvs.wales

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When is your Annual General Meeting?

As part of our continuing strategy to meet with as many memberand potential member organisations as possible, GVS would like toknow the date of your next AGM and ask if it’s possible for us toattend. We will endeavour to respond positively to as manyinvitations to AGMs as our resources permit.

As well as being able to attend, given sufficient notice, we would also be able to give a shorttalk or presentation about the services we offer to our members and the voluntary sector,along with up to date information affecting voluntary and community groups. Presentationsto member organisations are not confined to AGMs. We can attend, if invited and areavailable, any committee meeting or other event you are planning.

If you would like us to attend your next AGM or provide a speaker at a future meeting orevent, please let Clive Curtis know, e-mail: clive@gvs.wales or tel: 01446 741706 - welook forward to hearing from you.

AGMAnnual General Meeting

Glamorgan Voluntary Services – Out on the Road

During the run up to Christmas, Glamorgan Voluntary Services (GVS) took its services toCowbridge, Llantwit Major and Saint Athan. The aim was to meet as many local voluntaryorganisations as possible and for the local voluntary organisations to meet the GVS team.The three events were well attended, with people braving the recent December storms tomeet the GVS team to find out more about GVS services and how GVS can support local voluntary organisations.

Commenting on the events,Clive Curtis of GVS said,“We were pleased that somany local groups came tosee us. In each venue, wewere able to provide adviceand information on a rangeof subjects includingfunding, governance andvolunteering. GVS expertswere also on hand toanswer questions orconcerns on all aspects ofvolunteering and voluntaryaction.” He added, “Building on the success of these events, we will be taking our servicesout again to various parts of the Vale of Glamorgan in the New Year. It is important that wemake our organisation and our services as accessible as possible by going into towns andvillages the length and breadth of the Vale.”

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What services does your organisation offer? We provide an alternative education for vulnerable and disadvantaged young people whowork with our team of skilled staff and volunteers. There are many other people that make up the daily community on the farm including volunteers, adults with learning difficulties on work placements and members of the public enjoying the wonders of nature which offer a calming and therapeutic environment. It is a fantastic recipe that makes the Amelia TrustFarm an amazing place to be.

Where is your organisation based and what areas do you cover?A working farm set on 160 acres of countryside in the beautiful Vale of Glamorgan. We arelocated just off the Five Mile Lane near Barry. Young people attend the farm on placement from the Vale of Glamorgan, Cardiff, Rhondda Cynon Taff, Bridgend and Swansea.

Latest/exciting news (events, projects, training etc.):We are about to embark on re-opening our network of trails through our woodland. We arelooking for volunteers to help us with the restoration work that is needed to return thefootpaths to their former glory. We have a number of events coming up in the New Yearincluding the BIG Garden Bird Watch on the 30th January and a 1950s style afternoon tea inour newly refurbished Café on the 31st January.

What difference are you making in the community? We help the young people who attend the Farm toincrease their self-awareness and confidence and support them in the decisions they make to helpthem achieve their goals. Our team of volunteersbenefit from developing new skills, working in a beautiful countryside setting, meeting new people,and giving back to the community.

What is the most rewarding/enjoyable aspect ofthe organisations work?Volunteers often comment that they find volunteering at Amelia Trust extremely rewarding particularly when they see how young people that we support change and grow with thehelp they receive from the highly trained staff, the beautiful farm surroundings, the animals and the countryside. In the words of one of our volunteers: “Volunteering at Amelia TrustFarm is what keeps me going”.

How can people become involved with your organisation?We have lots of volunteering opportunities for people ranging from conservation work,buildings maintenance, working with the animals, working in the Café and office admin.

If you could make a wish for your organisation what would it be?For 2016 to be the year of the volunteer with lots of volunteers and volunteer groups to getin touch and lend a hand.

Contact details:Jo Whitfield Tel: 01446 782030 E-mail: jow@ameliatrust.org.uk

LIGHTSPOT

LIGHTSPOT

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M OTION CON TROL DA N CE

What services does your organisation offer? Motion Control Dance aims to 'advance theeducation of people all ages, living in the Vale of Glamorgan and the surrounding areas, inthe performing arts, particularly the art of dance, for the benefit of the public'.

Where is your organisation based and whatareas do you cover? In Barry and we cover theVale of Glamorgan.

Latest/exciting news (events, projects, trainingetc): Registered as a new CharitableIncorporated Organisation in May 2015 andlaunched in September - on the right is a picturefrom our Christmas Showcase where 125dancers took part at St Cyres School.

What difference are you making in the community? We give the community "a Chance toDance" and through the provision of classes, workshops, training and performanceopportunities, we have created many memorable experiences for over a decade. Our AwardWinning projects focus upon young people and adults with disabilities, mental healthissues, obesity problems, the older generation, ethnic groups as well as socially deprivedmembers of the community, with the aim to increase general health and well being, throughthe medium of dance.

What is the most rewarding/enjoyable aspect of the organisations work? We work withschools and local organisations, delivering dance projects to engage physical participation,increase confidence and self esteem, develop social skills and create new friendship groups, develop motor skills and increase physical fitness.

Throughout the year we offer: Weekly classes for children, disabled, boys and young people; After School Clubs; Showcases & Competitions; Specialised Projects; AccreditedTraining Courses; Volunteer placements; Theatre Trips and Holiday Schemes.

How can people become involved with your organisation? Whether you want toparticipate or support our classes by volunteering you can get involved.

If you could make a wish for your organisation what would it be? To set up newpartnerships within the community working with new groups of individuals and to getfunded for the high quality work we produce throughout the year.

Contact details:Emma Mallam 07725 038778, E-mail: motioncontroldance@gmail.comWebsite: www.motioncontroldance.com facebook.com/motioncontroldancetwitter.com/MCD_ance

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LIGHTSPOTWhat services does your organisation offer? The Green Days project helps people with learning disabilities and/or mental healthproblems to gain the skills and confidence that will help them to lead an independent life within the community. The project is delivered across the counties of Cardiff, Vale of Glamorgan and Rhondda Cynon Taff and includes activities such as footpath and site reclamation, litter clearing, removal of invasive plant species, habitat improvement, generallandscape improvement and recording of wildlife.

Where is your organisation based?Our office is at: Innovate Trust, 433 Cowbridge Road East, Canton, Cardiff

What geographical areas does yourorganisation cover?Cardiff, the Vale of Glamorgan and Rhondda Cynon Taff.

Latest/exciting news (events,projects, training etc.):We are starting a new day of activities in the Vale of Glamorgan in January 2016, and weare looking for participants and volunteers to join us. We will be working with thecountryside rangers on various sites in the Vale and we will be meeting at Cosmeston LakesCountry Park.

What difference are you making in the community? The work that we carry out has a greatimpact on the local environment. The rangers have seen a number of funding cuts over thelast few years and the work of voluntary groups like ours has becoming increasinglyimportant to them. Work like hay raking, coppicing and invasive species clearance makes abig impact on the biodiversity of the areas.

What is the most rewarding/enjoyable aspect of the organisations work? Seeing theprogressions that our participants are making in areas like confidence, communication and team building, and the satisfaction derived from seeing the real difference that we make to the sites that we work on.

How can people become involved with your organisation? We are always looking for newvolunteers and are particularly keen to engage with people who may have been distancedfrom the volunteering market.

If you could make a wish for your organisation what would it be? That we could make alasting impression on the health and biodiversity of the South Wales countryside and thepeople that use it; and to improve the skills and confidence of the people that participate on the project.

Contact details: Green Days, Innovate Trust, 433 Cowbridge Road East, Canton, Cardiff CF5 1JH; tel: 029 2038 2151; e-mail: greendays@innovate-trust.org.uk

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LIGHTSPOT

CAOS Musical Society has been entertaining in the Vale of Glamorgan since 1969 andhopes to continue to do so for many more years to come. We meet on Wednesday eveningsat 7.30pm in the Community Hall, Glyndwr Avenue, St. Athan.

Our members come from the surrounding area, Cowbridge, Barry, Rhoose, St. Athan andLlantwit Major.

We used to be known as Cowbridge Amateur Operatic Society, but have recently changedour name to the above as we felt that this description suits today's society better. We are amixed choir and aim to sing all types of music, to please all tastes.

We perform concerts in various venues in the Vale. In 2015 we performed with the SouthWales Clarinet Choir and Barry Male Voice Choir. We also sang at the May Day Fair inCowbridge, performed concerts featuring songs from the shows of Rodgers andHammerstein and recently gave a Christmas concert in St Athan Church with the proceedsgoing to the Church Bells Restoration Fund.

We have recently appointed a new Musical Director, Mrs. Diane Normansell, who somepeople would know as the retired Headmistress of Llanfair School in St. Marychurch. Shehas settled in really well with us and is bringing welcome new ideas to the group.

Although we enjoy singing as a choir, we would love to be able to perform a full show as wehave in the past, our last one being 'Oklahoma' which took place in Llantwit Major School in2013. We are therefore in the planning stages for a modern production of Gilbert andSullivan's Trial By Jury, which we are hoping to perform in late September 2016.

To be able to do this and other shows, wereally need some new members in the group.We would give a really big welcome to anyonewho feels that they would enjoy being involvedeither on or off stage. Even if this project seems too difficult or too big a commitment, we will still be performing as a choir and wouldlove to meet anyone who may be interested, atour Wednesday night rehearsals. Our startingage is 16 years.

We also run a Junior group, TOTAL CAOS, who meet at the same venue on Wednesdaysfrom 6pm to 7.30pm, starting age six years.

We can be found online at CAOS Musical Society or by contacting Jenny Hughes on01446 713110, or e-mail JHughes@Caosmusicalsociety.co.uk

Introduction to Sustainable FundingThursday 21st January 2016 (9.45am – 4pm) includes a light lunchPrice - £25 (GVS member price)

Income diversification can play a vital role in assisting voluntary and community organisations to achieve financial sustainability. It can also assist organisations to develop new skills and approaches to the funding and financing of their work. This course is intended to equip staff and board members of frontline voluntary and community organisations with the knowledge and techniques to move towards achieving a ‘mixed economy’ fundingpackage for their organisations. It will also help participants to understand the importanceand benefits of long-term planning for financial sustainability and provide them with practical resources to plan more effectively for the future.

By the end of the session, participants will: understand the concept of sustainable funding appreciate the skills and approaches required to adopt an entrepreneurial culture understand the importance of having a mix of income streams learn how to explore and extend their funding and financing options

The course is intended for staff and board members of frontline voluntary and community organisations in the early stages of putting into place procedures for working towardsachieving financial sustainability for their organisation.

Minute TakingWednesday 24th February 2016 (9.45am - 1pm)Price - £20 (GVS member price)

By the end of the session, participants should: understand why meetings are needed, what makes a good meeting, the need for

minutes and accuracy of reporting understand the planning of an agenda and the preparation required explore practical tips and useful words for producing good minutes consider the blocks to participation

Training Matters

Professional, affordable, relevant courses for the voluntary sector

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Introduction to Trust FundraisingThursday 25th February 2016 (9.45am – 4pm) includes a light lunchPrice - £25 (GVS member price)

There are nearly 9,000 grant-making trusts in the UK. Who are they? What do theyfund? How can you find out more about them? What makes a successful application? This introductory one-day course, for those new to trust fundraising, will answer these questionsand more. It will include those trusts with a particular interest in Wales. Delivered byblended learning, you will need access to a computer at home or work in order to participatefully in this learning course.

By the end of the course, participants should be able to: Understand what are grant-making trusts and foundations Be aware of what trusts fund Know how to research trusts Appreciate the key factors in a successful application Recognise how to connect with and develop relationships with trusts Ensure they comply with relevant legislation and best practice Know where to go for further information, help and advice

Working with outcomes (Beginner)Thursday 17th March 2016 (9.45am – 4pm) includes a light lunchPrice - £25 (GVS member price)

To provide participants with the knowledge, tools and techniques to use and practice anoutcomes approach to the planning, management and on-going development of their work.In today’s economic climate understanding and demonstrating your impact will not only helpyou build good working relationships with funders but can also help you improve yourplanning mechanisms, resulting in more effective service delivery. It will introduce you to the steps involved in planning, managing and developing an outcomes approach to your work.

By the end of the course, participants should be able to: Understand the benefits of using an outcomes approach and how it relates to their

work Identify and describe the activity, results and difference that their work will make Design and implement a monitoring and evaluation system for gathering and

analysing information

Business and strategic planningThursday 28th April 2016 (9.45am - 4pm) includes a light lunchPrice - £25 (GVS member price)

By the end of the course, participants will: understand the difference between business and strategic planning understand the purpose of business and strategic plans and why every organisation

needs one appreciate the benefits of the planning process be able to develop comprehensive business and strategic plans

Social Media for Beginners WorkshopWednesday 11th May 2016 (9.45am – 4pm)Thursday 8th September 2016 (9.45am – 4pm)Price - £40 which includes a light lunch (GVS member price)

The course has proved a real hit with previous participants and has assisted organisationswith their social media decisions as well as giving them an opportunity to try out the socialmedia tools. Delegates have been able to open and use Twitter, Facebook, Tumblr, YouTube,Flickr and Google (forms) accounts. If you are not using social media to interact with yourstakeholders you could be missing out on a vast amount of possible beneficiaries especially as the social media tools are free.

At the end of the course, you will be able to: understand why social media is vital for any organisation identify some of the most important social media tools for your organisation to use create social media accounts in the practical session (Facebook, Twitter, Blogging,

YouTube, Flickr)

Tackling Twitter for BeginnersThursday 19th May 2016 (9.45am – 4pm)Thursday 15th September 2016 (9.45am – 4pm)Price: £40 which includes a light lunch (GVS member price)

This workshop is for “Twitter beginners” and people who want to improve their confidence in using it to reach a wider audience. Also, if your organisation is not using social media andyou recognise engagement as not just being through face-to-face or e-mail communication,then Twitter is for you! The benefits are endless and it’s a free social media platform.

You will be able to: set up a Twitter account send, reply to and delete a tweet use handles and hashtags effectively engage in a Twitter conversation use lists recognise Twitter etiquette and good practice choose a Twitter dashboard e.g. Hootsuite, Tweetdeck, Sobees integrate Twitter into your social media strategy

Governing Your OrganisationThursday 16th June 2016 (9.45am – 3.30pm) includes a light lunchPrice - £25 (GVS member price)

By the end of the session, participants will: explore the concept and principles of governance understand the purpose and uses of your 'governing instrument' (your constitution or

rules) understand the difference between governance and management

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have considered the Trustee's relationship with paid staff including the Chief Officer explore the importance of Nolan principles and Trustee codes of conduct understand the roles of Sub-committees and executive committees understand the role of AGMs and other membership meetings have an overview of good practice in trustee recruitment

Preparing a sustainable fundraising strategyWednesday 13th July 2016 (9.45am - 4pm) includes a light lunchPrice - £25 (GVS member price)

By the end of the course, participants will: understand what a sustainable funding strategy is and why they need one learn how to explore and extend their fundraising options be able to construct a realistic and sustainable fundraising strategy

Developing your NewsletterThursday 22nd September 2016 (9.45am – 1pm)Price - £20 (GVS member price)

The training is aimed at people in voluntary organisations with responsibility for producing anewsletter.

By the end of the session participants will: have explored a variety of approaches to producing a newsletter have considered the key elements of a newsletter have identified target audiences and how to tailor the newsletter accordingly know how to efficiently plan a newsletter

Introduction to WebsitesThursday 29th September 2016 (9.45am – 1pm)Price - £20 (GVS member price)

This course is for voluntary and community group members with responsibility for marketingand promotion within their organisation.

By the end of the session participants will: understand what the web is good for (and what it is not so good for) understand the structure of a website identify ways of making a website more user-friendly and accessible know the eight rules for writing for the web be aware of the do’s and don’ts for the homepage

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Chairing SkillsThursday 20th October 2016 (9.45am – 1pm)Price - £20 (GVS member price)

By the end of the session, participants will be able to: identify the role of the chair and consider the knowledge and skills required understand the preparation and planning needed for success identify tools to work towards a successful meeting

Grants - fit for fundingWednesday 9th November 2016 (9.45am - 4pm) includes a light lunchPrice - £25 (GVS member price)

By the end of the course, participants will: learn how to write concise and compelling applications understand how good research, realistic outcomes and accurate budgeting can

improve the chances of an application being accepted be able to build relationships with grant givers and meet their expectations

Planning and writing funding bids (intermediate)Thursday 8th December 2016 (9.45am - 4pm) includes a light lunchPrice - £25 (GVS member price)

By the end of the course, participants will be able to: understand the current funding climate in Wales and its impact on funders review their current approach of developing a bid apply new tools and techniques to give their bids a winning 'edge' understand and meet the expectations of funders

Being A TrusteeTuesday 17th January 2017 (9.45am – 3.30pm) includes a light lunchPrice - £25 (GVS member price)

By the end of the session, participants will be able to: Understand what it means to be a trustee, who can be one and what roles and

responsibilities trustees may have Appreciate what trustees can be liable for, and know how to limit potential risks Understand the principles of good governance, the roles of specific officers, and the

difference between a trustee board and its subcommittees Have an overview of what is needed for effective trustee recruitment and induction

All prices detailed above are GVS member rates; please contact GVS for non-member rates. If you would like to book on any of the courses detailed above, eithercontact GVS for a booking form via e-mail: enquiries@gvs.wales or contact us bytelephone: 01446 741706.

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Register for extra electronic copies of Vista and ourweekly e-bulletins for colleagues

GVS sends its information to the designated contact member but can also sendinformation on funding, training, sector news and governance updates to as many staff as you like by e-mail. This service has many benefits to your organisation and will keep people informed of local voluntary news and updates in legislation, health and the localauthority.

Please contact Mark Stillman at GVS, e-mail: mark@gvs.wales or tel: 01446 741706.

NewLink Wales Training

Substance Misuse AwarenessVoluntary Sector £140.00, Statutory Sector £150.0020th & 21st January 201618th & 19th February 201610th & 11th March 2016

At a small additional charge, this 2 day course can be accredited through Agored Cymrugaining 3 credits and level 3 on the Quality Assured Lifelong Learning Framework for Wales.

Advanced Substance Misuse AwarenessVoluntary Sector £155.00, Statutory Sector £165.0018th & 19th February 2016

At a small additional charge, this 2 day course can be accredited through Agored Cymrugaining 3 credits and level 3 on the Quality Assured Lifelong Learning Framework for Wales.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)Voluntary Sector £125.00, Statutory Sector £135.009th February 2016

Domestic Abuse: Effective Identification and Intervention Voluntary Sector £125.00, Statutory Sector £135.004th February 2016

Alcohol Use & Pregnancy – what are the lifelong effects? Voluntary Sector £135.00, Statutory Sector £145.00 includes lunch & course handouts11th February 2016

To book onto a course or for further information contact us on:Telephone: 029 2052 9002, e-mail: info@newlinkwales.org.ukor visit: www.newlinkwales.org.uk/trainingProgramme.html

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Christmas Cheer Comes to Llantwit Major and Barry!

On the 25th December two lunches were arranged for older people in the Vale whootherwise would have been on their own. At Bethel Baptist Church in Llantwit Major, 18older people enjoyed lunch with the main course donated by Wiltshire Farm Foods.Entertainment came from a local harpist and Christmas Carols with Horace and his friends.Even Father Christmas came, aided from Sloanes in Llantwit Major, with some wonderfulgifts! The Mayor, Tricia Lancaster, popped by and wished everyone a Happy Christmas andthere were wonderful hampers donated by the town council.

Golau Caredig in Barry also put on a fabulous lunch, opening their doors to nine local olderpeople to join in with their festivities and food, aided with carols from Rachel at Goldies andfinishing with the film ‘White Christmas’.

A wonderful time was had by all, and volunteers andclients alike can’t wait for next year, many saying it wasthe best Christmas they had had for a long time withnew friendships forged. Of course, none of this wouldhave been achievable if it wasn’t for the kind donationsfrom Llantwit Major Lions and Masons, The Holiday InnCardiff, AG Adams & Son Funeral Directors, Jane Hutt, AM, the Welsh Conservatives and many other localpeople who heard what we were doing and wanted tocontribute. Finally, Greenlinks provided free transportand without whose help none of our clients would havebeen able to attend.

It was such a success due to the volunteers who gave up their Christmas Day to help localolder people, who would otherwise have spent another lonely day on their own, at aparticularly hard time for many; no older person should be on their own at Christmas unlessthey choose to be.

For more information on Christmas 2016 please contact Jane Platts onjcp.platts1@gmail.com

1st Penmark with Porthkerry Scout Group ends 2015on a high

The group had another successful scout post period raising in excess of £1,300. The groupwould like to thank all the outlets involved in Rhoose and the surrounding villages forselling stamps and collecting mail and for all the help to everyone involved in sorting anddelivering the post.

1st Penmark with Porthkerry Scout Group is very successful in all sections - Beavers, Cubs,Scouts and our partner Explorer unit. We also have a dedicated Executive Committee. Weare based in Rhoose and young people from Rhoose and the surrounding villages attend. Ifanyone would like information about the group or would like to get involved, then theGroup Scout Leader, Martin Evans can be contacted on Gsl@penmarkscouts.org.uk

2015 ends on a high for Friends and Neighbours

Friend and Neighbours hectic 2015 programme finished off with a very busy November and December to mark the festive season, with a visit to Barry Memorial Hall to watch''Superstars in the Making” Winter Showcase. The show was enjoyed by all and theymarvelled at such talent shown by some 150 children and enjoyed singing along to the well-known melodies. In December, they visited Worcester and enjoyed visiting the Cathedraland marvelling at the architecture. Some of the members visited Greyfriars House whichwas dressed for the festive season in Dickensian Style. Throughout the tour the group alsosaw characters from Oliver Twist. They enjoyed looking around the shops and were amazedat so many Tudor style houses to be seen and enjoyed taking lunch in the local cafes andpubs.

They all enjoyed the Christmas party which washeld at Brynhill Golf Club where some 60members enjoyed a festive three course lunchwith all the trimmings and bucks fizz on arrival. Entertainment followed with a local belly dancegroup ''Seren Arabi'', who provided a colourfultraditional style of Egyptian and Turkish dance.The troupe then invited the members to take part and it was great to see so many joining inand dancing in the aisles.

Following this, the members enjoyed the 'Premiere of Friends and Neighbours’ very ownDVD. This was compiled by one of the volunteers when she heard the song on the radio''Lady Grey'' and thought “I could do something with this”. The members were asked tobring a photo in of themselves when they were young and in contrast there were photos ofthe members now on trips, meetings, parties etc. It was great to see the different fashions and black and white footage in contrast with colour. The party was also attended by JaneHutt AM who gave a vote of thanks to the group and wished them a Happy Christmas andHappy New Year. Lynette, Community Champion from Asda, also attended the event asFriends and Neighbours had been sponsored by Asda as a local charity for Christmas.

Gay Fifield, Co-ordinator of the group, gave a vote ofthanks to Asda, BarryRotary Club, Renishaw andAberthaw Power Station fortheir sponsorship and toMorrisons and Tesco forgratuities towards theChristmas party. All in allthe party was immenselyenjoyed by everyone. Someof the members thenenjoyed a visit to Wales Millennium Centre to see Shrek and had an excellent time. Thegroup finished the festive season with a visit to New Theatre to see ''Aladdin'' before their new 2016 programme starts which is expected to be very busy and enjoyable.

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What’s OnVoluntary Sector events happening in the local area

CARDIFF ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOCIETYCymdeithas Archeolegol Caerdydd

Lecture programme 2016

January 21st ELIZABETH A. WALKER - Principal Curator: Collections and Access /Palaeolithic Mesolithic Archaeology, National Museum WalesWelsh Caves and their Place in Histories of Palaeolithic Archaeology

February 4th DR KATIE HEMER - University of Sheffield Vice Chancellor’s Fellow ‘trod the paths, traversed the moors’: Investigating Early MedievalPopulation Mobility in Southeast Wales

February 18th DR ELIZABETH BLOXAM - Lecturer in Archaeology, SHARE, Cardiff University and University College, LondonWho were the Quarry Workers? Investigating the Origins of StoneCrafting in Egypt’s Eastern Desert.

March 3rd Annual General Meeting

Lectures are held in the Large Chemistry Lecture Theatre (Room 1.123), Main Building,Cardiff University, Park Place, starting at 7.15 pm.

Visitors are welcome. For further information contact Brian Davies on 029 2084 2743.

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Do you have photographs of your voluntary groupparticipating in some sort of activity?

GVS would like to update its photographic library of members participating in activities to usefor mutual benefit. The photographs could benefit your group by giving it additional publicity.The photographs could appear in GVS’ Annual Review, Vista magazine, GVS’ website andgeneral leaflets advertising our services. Photographs of current work (in the last year)would be of particular interest.

Please obtain consent from individuals appearing in the photographs. Thephotographs will be returned where requested. Please e-mail or post your photographs toMark Stillman at GVS, e-mail: mark@gvs.wales or post: GVS, Barry Community EnterpriseCentre, Skomer Road, Barry CF62 9DA.

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One of the most common questions you getasked as a volunteer, regardless of whatorganisation you’re with is "Why?" It’sprobably the most common question you askyourself too. So standing in a car park on awet and miserable October day with girls andboys from the 11th Barry Sea Scout Group,waiting for a group of leather clad bikers toarrive, you could be forgiven for asking thatvery question. However, this was no ordinaryOctober day and these were no ordinarybikers we were waiting for.

The date was the 24th October 2015, the start of the Royal British Legion’s PoppyAppeal and the Bikers were in fact the Royal British Legion Riders (www.rblr.co.uk) whowere joining us to help us kick start our collecting.

Earlier in the year Bryan Foley, the Group Scout Leader (GSL) for the 11th Barry Sea ScoutGroup, suggested that the group do more to support the Legion. After much discussionbetween the group and the local branch of the Legion, it was decide that we would seek tobecome officially affiliated with the Legion. After much work by all involved, the group became officially affiliated at a special service held at St Marys Church, Barry on the 7th

October 2015.

Following the passing away of the member of the Barry Branch of theLegion who usually organised the collection at the local Lidl store, 11th

Barry were asked to take over there. Covering 150 hours across twoweeks at first seemed a daunting task, but we soon came to realise that we had an entirely different problem; how to get the Beavers, Cubs and Scouts to go home after they had done their turn. Such wastheir enthusiasm for supporting the Legion and selling poppies, theyseldom wanted to stop when it was time for another girl or boy to takeover.

Our newest and youngest Leader Heather Adams, 18 years old, alsoknown as “Rikki” said, “I’ve never done anything like this before but I really enjoyedmyself. My father, who’s also a Leader and my brothers, who are in Cubs and Beavers,also helped out.”

Fayth Birmingham, 10 years old and a Scout with 11th Barry said, “It was really exciting tobe there (Lidl's) to sell the poppies. My brothers Charlie (Cubs) and Eli, who has juststarted Beavers, helped me and my mum. We wanted to stay all day".

Over the course of our time at Lidl's the group managed to raise over £7000, and withmoney raised at other events and by managing poppy selling at various locations aroundBarry, we actually raised an amazing total of £8029.42.

11th Barry Sea Scout Group fundraising for the RoyalBritish Legion

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Roy Goodwin, the Youth Co-ordinator for the Barry Branch of the Royal British Legion said,"We are absolutely stunned not just by how much was raised by the group, but by howmuch everyone at the 11th Barry got behind the appeal. The 11th is the only Scout Group inWales to be officially affiliated to the Legion and only the second in the whole of the UK. The children's enthusiasm whilst at Lidl's was infectious and I'm sure that's why they wereable to collect so much”.

Of course, none of this would have been possible without the support of the parents andcarers, who also gave up their time to join their children at Lidl's. With the majorityof Leaders and volunteers of the group at work during the day, it fell to them to cover mostof the hours, particularly when their children were in school. Karen Johns, a mum with adaughter in Beavers and son in Scouts said, "It's been an absolute pleasure and honour formyself and my children to be part of the 2015 poppy selling for the Royal British Legion".

Bryan Foley (our GSL) said, ”I am very proud and glad that we accepted the offer to become an Affiliated Unit with the RBL. We have a duty as leaders to help our girls and boys to understand why this is important to the Scout Movement. Many former Scoutershave paid the ultimate sacrifice in the various wars and conflicts since the founding of the Legion. In fact, I believe more were killed during World War One than from any other youthmovement at the time.

Our involvement with the Legion has helped to broaden our girls and boys knowledge on animportant subject, Remembrance. They embraced the Poppy Appeal and often it was hardto get them to finish their shift with their parents! Many are asking when can we do it again.

The generosity of the customers andstaff at the Barry Lidl store has simply been outstanding. We were aiming forabout half of what we ended upcollecting, so to have collected over£8000 left us all speechless. Everyoneat the 11th Barry, wish to thankeveryone who donated.

A big thank you also has to be given toRoy and Teresa Goodwin from theLegion, for encouraging and helping uson this journey”.

Whilst Remembrance and Poppy Fortnight has ended for 2015, the work of the BarryBranch of the Legion continues, as does the need for funds. 11th Barry and our friends at372 Squadron (Barry) Air Training Corps are hoping to do more to support the Legionthroughout the year. We are currently talking with their Commanding Officer, Flight Lieutenant Jason Horton RAFVR(T) about doing some joint fundraising activities for theLegion.

If you or your organisation would like to find out about helping our local RBL branch, please get in touch, e-mail: GSL@11thbarryscouts.org.uk

Friendly AdvantAGE Celebration Event October 2015

Friendly AdvantAGE, the consortium befriending project, managed by GVS with supportfrom C3SC, held a celebration event at the SWALEC Stadium in Cardiff, to celebrate its fourth year. The event was attended by over 70 people, including staff, volunteers and stakeholders.

Friendly AdvantAGE, funded by the BIG Lottery, was established to reduce loneliness andsocial isolation for people aged 50+ living in Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan. The project provides a range of befriending projects, delivered by Age Connects Cardiff and the Vale, Dinas Powys Voluntary Concern, GVS and Scope Cymru.

Friendly AdvantAGE aimed to reach 900 beneficiaries and recruit 100 volunteers. Over the last four years, Friendly AdvantAGE reached 1,103 people, providing 1-2-1 or groupsupport to 924 beneficiaries. The project has recruited 175 volunteers who, between them have provided over 11,500 hours of volunteering, which equates to over £120,000in additional monetary value.

Among the guest speakers were: Dr Mark Llewellyn,Welsh Institute of Health and Social Care; Clare Lane,Older People’s Commissioners Office; Jane Hutt, Assembly Member; Rob Pickford, Big Lottery Fund,Wales Committee member; Linda Pritchard, ValeHealth and Social Care Facilitator, GVS; CathyMangles, Volunteer; Lynda Francis, Volunteer andRachel Connor, Chief Executive Officer, GVS.

Dr Mark Llewellyn, who, with his colleagues at Welsh Institute of Health and Social Care(WIHSC), have been responsible for the external evaluation of Friendly AdvantAGE,presented the project’s interim evaluation report. Mark informed the audience thatFriendly AdvantAGE has delivered a professional and effective service over the last four years. Its values of being enabling, empathic and supportive have ensured that it hasbecome very well respected and has helped change the lives of a great many older peopleacross Cardiff and the Vale. Mark reported that 60% of beneficiaries who admitted that they were lonely have increased their social interaction and well-being. Of those whoagreed that they had low levels of confidence, 76% have increased their confidence levels.

As part of the evaluation, WIHSC produced a digital story for each of the FriendlyAdvantAGE projects. During the morning the audience watched five digital stories which demonstrated the positive impact that Friendly AdvantAGE has had on beneficiaries and volunteers involved with the project. The digital stories are available to view onwww.gvs.wales

Below are a few of the comments that beneficiaries have made about Friendly AdvantAGE: ‘If anyone need to be convinced about this help, I would tell them how much it did forme…It made me ‘me’ again’.

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Another Busy year for the Civil Aid Voluntary RescueAssociation (CAVRA) Team

2015 was another busy year for the CAVRA Team, rescuing a total of 13 persons andassisting a further 34.

A total of 11,584 hours of voluntary service was undertaken throughout the year An additional 1608.8 hours of voluntary service was undertaken on behalf of the

Welsh Ambulance Service by members of the CAVRA team, assisting an additional 59persons

The monetary value of this voluntary service is £166,680, which proves the value of thethird sector in their local communities.

The year ended on a sad note, as Richard Harrhy, one of the senior members of CAVRAcollapsed and died on14th December whilst at work.

CAVRA is a voluntary organisation which aims to provide assistance during severeweather events such as storms, floods, snow, drought, etc. Searches for missing persons and other civil contingencies, it relies totally on charitable donations frommembers of the public, local businesses and other organisations.

Serving Searching Protecting SavingRegistered Charity Number 1088563.

For further information, contact the Chairman Ivor Davies on 029 2053 1834,or via our website www.cavra.org

‘To keep in touch, to keep abreast of the times,and not be able to compete with my grandson,but to be able to talk to him. The gap (betweenus) was a big one, but since I have had theIPad, if I’ve wanted to know anything I haveoften called him...he thinks it’s great!’

‘This is really good for companionship andmaking friends. It’s easy to underestimate how much having human contact means toyou’.

Sadly, the funding for Friendly AdvantAGE will end in March 2016 and the project willclose at the end of April 2016. Until then, Sandra Roberts, Project Manager, Cath Haines,Project Assistant and the Friendly AdvantAGE team will continue to reduce loneliness andsocial isolation for the most vulnerable people living in Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan.

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Recovery Cymru is recruiting volunteers and lookingto build partnerships across the Vale of Glamorgan

Recovery Cymru is a self – help, mutual support community for people recovering fromdrug and alcohol problems in Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan.

We develop support and social groups, activities and social networks that offer people the chance to be part of a genuine community. Our activities are designed and run by people inrecovery and by volunteers. We offer a non-judgemental, laid-back, positive and recovery focussed atmosphere at both our centres.

We also offer a planned, regular phone call to offer recovery and peer support, advice and friendship as part of our exciting new telephone recovery support service. This is ideal forpeople who may struggle to access our centres, especially further out in rural Vale with notransport amenities.

We are part of the Footsteps to Recovery programme which is a unique through care,aftercare and recovery community support programme for substance misuse in Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan.

You can access us, and find out more about it by contacting either one of our centres:

Vale Recovery Centre232 Holton RdBarry CF63 4HS01446 73422007767 113705

Cardiff Recovery Centre 218 Cowbridge Rd East, Cardiff CF5 1GX029 20 22701907767 113704rachelbayer@recoverycymru.org.uk

We welcome people from all sorts of backgrounds to our exciting and expanding volunteerprogramme, including those who wish to support others as they begin and manage theirown recovery journeys.

For further information on how you can volunteer with us, contact Roxanne Newman,Volunteer & Development Worker on 01446 734220or e-mail roxynewman@recoverycymru.org.uk

South Glamorgan Raynet responding to emergencies

South Glamorgan Raynet are an emergency communications group run by qualified radio amateurs who use their skills to assist in charity events and emergencies. We work inconjunction with other local Raynet groups or can be tasked to respond to emergenciesnationwide if required.

We work closely with Cardiff Council and Penarth Town Council. We performed at two events in the Vale providing radio for public safety; the Penarth summer festival and thePenarth Christmas Fair. We also work in conjunction with all blue light services and aretrained in EVAC to assist Cardiff Council in the evacuation of the city centre in emergencies. We work with CAVRA (Civil Aid Voluntary Rescue Association) during emergencies andinclement weather situations providing 4x4 response duties for the Police, Ambulance andNHS, including collecting and delivering medication and patient transfers.

We were in attendance at the Somerset flood emergency and have assisted in missing person searches when requested by the Coastguard. We are authorised to carry messagesfor all third parties i.e. Police, Fire, Ambulance, RNLI, Coastguard, Network rail, power, gas,and water companies etc.

Our national contact number is 0303 040 1080. We use the amateur spectrum to providecommunication when the landline and mobile and emergency systems fail due to variouscauses such as power outages, flooding, or any major incident, then we are able to use our resources to provide communications be they static or mobile, and are constantly bringingin new technology.

Roy Magwood, Group Controller South Glamorgan Raynet

Senior Health Shop is a hive of activity

Age Connects Cardiff and Vale Senior Health Shop had an excellent year with many health advice groups and organisations having the opportunity to relay much needed importantinformation. The events included weekly Information Sessions held on a Tuesday morningincluding Welfare Rights, Tax, Legal Advice, Care and Repair, NEST, Breast Screening,Nutrition, Parkinsons and Fibromyalgia. This has proved a very successful way ofnetworking with different groups.

The monthly Wednesday Afternoon Teas are always full and have been a great way ofmaking new friends as everyone chats together over tea, coffee and cakes. The Quiz, which is held during the tea, stimulates and creates interaction with those taking part. The newcomputer class has proved very successful, promoted by Barry Communities First with FREEtuition and use of laptops and tablets. Computers classes are held every Thursday morningfrom 10am to 12noon with two helpers. To end the busy year Golden Oldies held asing-a-long and it was great to see the ''Stitch and Bitch'' group who meet on a Mondaymorning and the Keep Fit group who meet on a Wednesday morning and members ofGolden Oldies singing along to carols; it was fabulous to see everyone having such a goodtime together. For information on any of the classes contact 01446 732385.

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GVS surplus office items

Book shelf units and wooden filing cabinets £10 each

The items are on a first come first served basis and collection only from GVS’ premises.

To register your interest for any of the above items please contactMark Stillman at GVS Tel: 01446 741706, E-mail: mark@gvs.wales

Box files, lever arch folders,chairs andmetal filing

cabinetsavailable free

of charge