NDVS

NDVS Community Awards 2025 Dignitaries
2025-11-13 19:00 - 21:30 (Africa/Abidjan) | Cedars Inn Hotel, Bickington Road, Sticklepath, EX31 2HE, Sticklepath, EX31 2HE, GB
An evening of recognition & celebration of the dedicated Voluntary & Community organisations, volunteers and hidden gems of our community.

NDVS Annual Community Awards 2025
Join us for the NDVS Annual Community Awards, a celebration of the incredible individuals who selflessly dedicate their time and energy to making a difference in our community. This in-person event will take place on Thursday, November 13th, 2025 at Cedars Inn, Bickington Road, Barnstaple – 7 – 9.30pm. (please arrive by 6.30 pm for a prompt 7pm start)
Join us for a welcome drink then get ready to applaud and honour those dedicated vcse groups, volunteers and unsung heroes who go above and beyond to support our community. The fantastic Laura James will return to compere the evening filled with heartfelt speeches, inspiring stories, and well-deserved recognition.
Let’s come together to show our gratitude and appreciation for their outstanding contributions.
Don’t miss out on this special occasion to celebrate our dedicated volunteers, community and charity champions and ambassadors, alongside a number of unsung heroes of our community.
Mark your calendars and join us for an unforgettable evening of appreciation and camaraderie at the NDVS Annual Volunteer Awards 2025!
The dress code for the event is smart casual, or if organisations prefer to wear their uniforms, they are welcome to do so.

NDVS Community Awards 2025
2025-11-13 18:30 - 21:30 (Africa/Abidjan) | Cedars Inn Hotel, Bickington Road, Sticklepath, EX31 2HE, Sticklepath, EX31 2HE, GB
Join us to celebrate the incredible individuals who selflessly dedicate their time and energy to making a difference in our community.

NDVS Annual Community Awards 2025
Join us for the NDVS Annual Community Awards, a celebration of the incredible individuals who selflessly dedicate their time and energy to making a difference in our community. This in-person event will take place on Thursday, November 13th, 2025 at The Cedar’s Inn, Bickington Road, Barnstaple – 7 – 9.30 pm. (please arrive by 6.30 pm for a prompt 7pm start)
Join us for a welcome drink then get ready to applaud and honour those dedicated vcse groups, volunteers and unsung heroes who go above and beyond to support our community. The fantastic Laura James will return to compere the evening filled with heartfelt speeches, inspiring stories, and well-deserved recognition.
Let’s come together to show our gratitude and appreciation for their outstanding contributions.
Don’t miss out on this special occasion to celebrate our dedicated volunteers, community and charity champions and ambassadors, alongside a number of hidden gems of our community.
The dress code for the event is smart casual, or if organisations prefer to wear their uniforms, they are welcome to do so.
We want everyone to feel welcome and comfortable at our event. If you have any additional requirements or accessibility needs please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us in advance. We’re happy to make arrangements to ensure your experience is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Light refreshments will be available. If you have any allergies, please inform the organisers ahead of time. While we’ll do our best to accommodate, we regret that alternative options cannot be guaranteed.
Due to high demand, we kindly ask that nominees book one ticket only at this stage. If additional space becomes available, extra tickets will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.
Mark your calendars and join us for an unforgettable evening of appreciation and camaraderie at the NDVS Annual Volunteer Awards 2025!

Meet The Funders Webinar (November)
2025-11-12 13:00 - 15:00 (Africa/Abidjan) | Online Event
Join us for a online Meet The Funders Webinar where you can connect with potential funders in North Devon and learn how to secure funding.

Welcome to the Meet The Funders Webinar!
Learn about potential funding opportunities for your organisation/ projects. Our panel of funders will share current funding opportunities available, as well as valuable insights and tips on how to secure funding for your initiatives. Don’t miss this chance to connect with potential funders and expand your network.
Register now to reserve your spot!
Agenda-
1.00-1.15: Welcome and Intros
1.15- 1.45 Bev Triggs and Kate Johnston Corporate and Community Services Officer- (North Devon Community Lottery/ North Devon District Council)
1.45-2.15 Hannah Shackleton- Active Devon
2.15-2.45 Becky Coleman- EasyFundraising
2.45-3.00 Q&A ‘s
Save the date for next session- Thurs 11th Dec 1.00-3.00

Free Cybercrime Awareness Training
2025-11-11 10:00 - 11:00 (Africa/Abidjan) | Queens House, 6 Queen Street, Barnstaple, EX32 8HJ, Barnstaple, EX32 8HJ, GB
Come learn how to protect yourself from cybercrime at our free training session!

Free Cybercrime Awareness Training session! Queen’s House Barnstaple
Devon and Cornwall Police offer free Cybercrime awareness presentations to businesses, charities, public sector organisations and local community groups.
These face-to-face presentations are designed to raise general awareness concerning on-line crime and promote the many preventative measures that are available for individuals and organisations to take and so help protect them from becoming a Cybercrime victim.

The Woodyard Halloween Quiz
2025-11-01 17:45 - 21:00 (Africa/Abidjan) | Castle Centre, 25 Castle Street, Barnstaple, EX31 1DR, Barnstaple, EX31 1DR, GB
Join us for a spooktacular evening of trivia and more – it’s going to be a howling good time!

Come join us for a spooktacular night of fun! Test your knowledge on all things Halloween and more with our scarily good quiz.
The place to come is the Castle Centre, 25 Castle Street, Barnstaple EX31 1DR.
Quiz starts at 6pm and doors open at 5.45pm. End time of 9pm.

Ticket price is £10 each and includes a fang-tastic pasty or sausage roll plus table snacks.
Please bring your own bottle (alcohol or non-alcoholic as you wish)
Team size maximum of six. Coming on your own? No problem. We’re a friendly bunch and will welcome you with open arms and put you in a team with others.
Fancy dress is optional – but there may be a prize or two for the creepiest outfit!
Doors open at 5.45pm so don’t be late…

And last, but not least, thank you for your support. By coming along you will be raising funds for The Woodyard community project, creating a space where no one feels lonely.
So grab your friends and family for a ghoulishly good time. See you there!
The Woodyard Community Project is a project hosted through North Devon Voluntary Services.

Mental Health First Aid 2 Day Course
2025-10-20 09:30 - 2025-10-21 17:00 (Africa/Abidjan) | North Devon Hospice, Deer Park Road, Barnstaple, EX32 0HU, Barnstaple, EX32 0HU, GB
Cost £35 pp (ex. Eventbrite fees) for resources and materials. This course is subsidised by NDVS for the Voluntary & Community sector.

THIS 2 DAY COURSE IS AVAILABLE TO EMPLOYEES AND VOLUNTEERS OF VOLUNTARY AND COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an internationally recognised training course, which teaches people how to spot the signs and symptoms of mental ill health and provide help on a first aid basis.
MHFA England training won’t teach you to be a therapist, but just like physical first aid, it will teach you to listen, reassure and respond, even in a crisis .

DATES: Monday 20th October 2025
TIMES: 9.30am – 5pm
LOCATION: North Devon Hospice (Magnolia Suite), Deer Park, Rumsam Road, Barnstaple, EX32 0HUUnited Kingdom
Tuesday 21st October 2025
TIMES: 9.30am – 5pm
LOCATION: North Devon Hospice North Devon Hospice (Magnolia Suite), Deer Park, Rumsam Road, Barnstaple, EX32 0HUUnited Kingdom

Through a blend of instructor-led in person sessions and self-learning activities, this 2 day course offers:
– A deeper understanding of mental health and the factors that can affect people’s wellbeing, including your own.
− Practical skills to spot the triggers and signs of mental health issues.
− Confidence to step in, reassure and support a person in distress.
− Enhanced interpersonal skills such as non-judgemental listening.
− Knowledge to help someone recover their health by guiding.
Learners who complete the course will be certified as Mental Health First Aiders. They will receive a certificate on completion of the course.
COST: £35 pp to cover certification and resources (ex. Eventbrite fees).
Once participants have registered for the course we will send you a link to register with the Mental Health First Aid portal, all resources will be available on the day.
The usual cost of this course would be £300 and is being subsidised for voluntary and community groups by NDVS, in conjunction with The Norman Family Trust, to support the voluntary sector in North Devon.
Any questions, please email Louise via cvs@ndvs.org.uk or phone 01271 866300

Meet The Funders Webinar (October)
2025-10-08 13:00 - 15:00 (Africa/Abidjan) | Online Event
Join us for a online Meet The Funders Webinar where you can connect with potential funders in North Devon and learn how to secure funding.

Welcome to the Meet The Funders Webinar!
Learn about potential funding opportunities for your organisation/ projects. Our panel of funders will share current funding opportunities available, as well as valuable insights and tips on how to secure funding for your initiatives. Don’t miss this chance to connect with potential funders and expand your network.
Register now to reserve your spot!
Agenda-
1.00-1.15: Welcome and Intros
1.15-1.45 Philippa Knott Kos (Devon Community Foundation)
1.45-2.15 Lorna Jones (Fullabrook CIC)
2.15-2.45 TBC
2.45-3.00 Q&A’s
Note: Next sessions- Wed 12th Nov 1.00-3.00 & Thurs 11th Dec 1.00-3.00

Northern Devon Community Developers Forum
2025-09-23 10:00 - 12:00 (Africa/Abidjan) | North Devon Hospice, Deer Park Road, Barnstaple, EX32 0HU, Barnstaple, EX32 0HU, GB
A forum for all Northern Devon Community Developers to connect, collaborate and develop.

Focus: Linking Social Prescribers/ Wellbeing Teams to our Community Development Work.Location to be confirmed.
The aim of the Forum is to bring together Community Developers/ Connectors/ Ambassadors/ Animators working in Northern Devon to share experiences, best practice, opportunities and ideas. To develop a strong voice representing Northern Devon, connecting and promoting joint working, and tackling issues together which affect our communities.
This forum will offer an opportunity to meet every quarter and is open to any organisation hosting or employing staff supporting Community Development.
Each quarter we will have focused debate on key areas identified by the group, an opportunity for guest presentations (prebooked) and plenty of networking.
Tea/Coffee and Cake are an essential part of our meeting.

"10 Things Charities Should Know About Getting Started with AI" Webinar
2025-09-16 13:30 - 14:30 (Africa/Abidjan) | Online Event
Strategic Webinar: “10 Things Charities Should Know About Getting Started with AI”

Delivered by Robyn Greaves from PraviAI

1. Strategic Webinar: “10 Things Charities Should Know About Getting Started with AI”

Category: AI Strategy & Organisational ReadinessAudience: Charity leaders, managers, and teams thinking about AI but not sure where to start.
Focus:

Big-picture thinking: what AI means for your organisation
Developing an AI mindset and culture
Writing or reviewing an AI policy
Ethical considerations and risks
How to start with low risk and high impact

Purpose: Helps small charities build confidence, understand what AI adoption actually involves, and set the right foundation before jumping into tools.
Zoom link will be sent out via email.

NDVS Managing and Supporting Volunteers Forum
2025-09-11 10:00 - 12:00 (Africa/Abidjan), 2025-02-04 10:30 - 12:00 (Europe/London) | Queens House, 6 Queen Street Suite 2025, Barnstaple, EX32 8HJ, Barnstaple, EX32 8HJ, GB
Networking, sharing and info

Main agenda items for February 2025 Forum: Safeguarding and Fundraising
10.30- 12.00 Managing and Supporting Volunteer Forum
This FREE forum will be a great way to stay up-to-date with and learn about the best practice around volunteer supervision and management.
The forum will be open to anyone who has direct responsibility for managing or co-ordinating volunteers, regardless of the size of your organisation and whether your role is paid or unpaid.
The forum meeting will provide an opportunity to develop skills and share experiences.
The structure, format and themes will be chosen in consultation with the group.
Refreshments provided.
12.00-12.30 Managing and Supporting Volunteer Forum Practitioners- Peer Support Network
A peer support network for people involved with Supporting and Managing Volunteers.
In this group, volunteer managers can seek guidance, support, troubleshooting, and have an opportunity to have topical discussions on particular issues in a confidential and safe space.
Participants will be asked to bring examples of situations where either they wish to discuss alternative approaches and outcomes or to share good practices and resources. This will be an informal space for peer support and discussion.

NDVS Partnerships Information Networking Event
2025-08-12 14:00 - 16:00 (Africa/Abidjan) | Castle Centre, 25 Castle Street, Barnstaple, EX31 1DR, Barnstaple, EX31 1DR, GB
Join NDVS & NDC to share feedback, shape future support, connect with partners & discuss emergency planning for our communities.

You’re invited!
North Devon Voluntary Services (NDVS) would like to invite all our valued partners to our upcoming NDVS Partnerships Information Networking Event. This will be a relaxed and informal afternoon focused on connection and collaboration. You’ll hear updates on what’s happening at NDVS, have the chance to catch up with other partners, as well as an opportunity to share your thoughts on how we can better support you and your organisation going forward.
As part of the event, North Devon Council will also be attending to consult with our vauled partners about emergency planning in North Devon, to explore ways in which local VCSE sector organisations can work together, with other infrastructure organisations, to support local resilience during emergencies (e.g. extreme weather events like Storm Darragh) in the future.

What to expect:

Welcome talk from Marie Gould, Chief Officer, including updates on what’s happening within NDVS, our ‘Why’ and explain our transition to AideCRM.
Update from Louise Flagg, our Partnership’s Officer, around themes and Volunteer Management Forum.
Time to chat informally with the NDVS team and find out more about our roles
An opportunity to help shape the services we offer to better meet your needs— such as specific training, support, or new opportunities
Emergency Planning Consultation with North Devon Council
A thank you for your continued partnership and the incredible work you do in the community.

Emergency Planning Consultation with North Devon Council
We’re pleased to welcome Alex Miles (Emergency Planning Officer) and Bev Triggs (Senior Corporate & Community Services Officer) from North Devon Council.
They would like to opportunity to consult with local VCSE partners in North Devon to explore:

How the voluntary and community sector can support local resilience during emergencies (e.g. extreme weather events like Storm Darragh)
What capacity, resources, or roles your organisation could play in a coordinated emergency response

Your input can make a real difference in shaping North Devon’s emergency planning approach.
We look forward to seeing you there — it’s a great chance to connect and a chance to thank you for your continued partnership and support!

Stop For Life Training for Community Developers
2025-07-01 09:30 - 12:30 (Africa/Abidjan) | suite 205, 6 Queen St, 6 Queen Street #suite 205, Barnstaple, EX32, Barnstaple, EX32, GB

Northern Devon Community Developers Forum
2025-06-03 10:00 - 2025-06-06 12:00 (Europe/London) | North Devon Hospice, Deer Park Road, Barnstaple, EX32 0HU, Barnstaple, EX32 0HU, GB
A forum for all Northern Devon Community Developers to connect, collaborate and develop.

Location to be confirmed.
Focus: Older People. Linking Social Prescribers/ Wellbeing Teams to our Community Development Work.
The aim of the Forum is to bring together Community Developers/ Connectors/ Ambassadors/ Animators working in Northern Devon to share experiences, best practice, opportunities and ideas. To develop a strong voice representing Northern Devon, connecting and promoting joint working, and tackling issues together which affect our communities.
This forum will offer an opportunity to meet every quarter and is open to any organisation hosting or employing staff supporting Community Development.
Each quarter we will have focused debate on key areas identified by the group, an opportunity for guest presentations (prebooked) and plenty of networking.
Tea/Coffee and Cake are an essential part of our meeting.

Updates from Age Concern and Living Options Disability Ambassadors Programme

NDVS Managing and Supporting Volunteers Forum
2025-05-14 13:30 - 15:00 (Europe/London) | Queens House, 6 Queen Street Suite 2025, Barnstaple, EX32 8HJ, Barnstaple, EX32 8HJ, GB
Networking, sharing and info

Main agenda items for February 2025 Forum: Safeguarding and Fundraising
13:30- 14:30 Managing and Supporting Volunteer Forum
This FREE forum will be a great way to stay up-to-date with and learn about the best practice around volunteer supervision and management.
The forum will be open to anyone who has direct responsibility for managing or co-ordinating volunteers, regardless of the size of your organisation and whether your role is paid or unpaid.
The forum meeting will provide an opportunity to develop skills and share experiences.
The structure, format and themes will be chosen in consultation with the group.
Refreshments provided.
14:30-15:00 Managing and Supporting Volunteer Forum Practitioners- Peer Support Network
A peer support network for people involved with Supporting and Managing Volunteers.
In this group, volunteer managers can seek guidance, support, troubleshooting, and have an opportunity to have topical discussions on particular issues in a confidential and safe space.
Participants will be asked to bring examples of situations where either they wish to discuss alternative approaches and outcomes or to share good practices and resources. This will be an informal space for peer support and discussion.

Group 2 Awareness in Safeguarding Training
2025-05-12 13:00 - 16:30 (Europe/London) | Online Event
Group 2 Awareness in Safeguarding training is crucial to anyone working with children and young people in the voluntary sector.

Trainer – Tom Couthard – VOYC
Group 2 (Awareness) training is crucial to anyone working with vulnerable adults, children and young people in the voluntary sector – paid or unpaid. This course increases awareness and confidence building in respect of identification, responding, recording and reporting processes involved in child protection. It will also raise awareness of legislation, attitudes & values, and blocks & challenges in safeguarding.
This awareness raising course will enable participants to better understand their role and safeguarding responsibilities if their groups are providing activities or services for vulnerable adults, children and young people.
The outcomes from the session will be that you:

be more aware of the legal framework for safeguarding and child protection
better understand what needs to be done to protect all those involved with the activities of your organisation;

feel more confident, enabling you to scrutinise any safeguarding related decisions made by your organisation;
know what resources there are available that can support organisations take reasonable steps to safeguard beneficiaries;
identify areas of potential risk and how these might be mitigated by your organisation.

Youth Focused Mental Health First Aid Training - Online Course
2025-04-30 13:00 - 2025-05-28 16:30 (Europe/London) | Online Event
The course is for anyone who works with, lives with, or supports young people aged 8-18 years.

AVAILABLE TO EMPLOYEES AND VOLUNTEERS OF VOLUNTARY AND COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS WHO WORK DIRECTLY WITH YOUNG PEOPLE AGED 8-18 YEARS.
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an internationally recognised training course which teaches people how to spot the signs and symptoms of mental ill health and provide help on a first aid basis.
MHFA England training won’t teach you to be a therapist, but just like physical first aid, it will teach you to listen, reassure and respond, even in a crisis .
THIS ONLINE COURSE IS SPLIT OVER 4 SESSIONS
Wednesday April 30th 1PM – 4.30PM
Wednesday May 7th 1PM – 4.30PM
Wednesday May 14th 1PM – 4.30PM
Wednesday May 28th 1PM – 4.30PM

The outcomes of the course are:
As a MHFAider®️, you will be able to:

Explain what mental health is
Describe how to look after your own mental health and wellbeing
Describe the signs of possible poor mental health in young people
Explain some of the risk factors associated with poor mental health in young people
Demonstrate how to apply the youth MHFA action plan (ALGEE) in a Youth Mental Health First Aid conversation
Describe the role of a Youth MHFAider

COST: £35 pp to cover certification and resources + eventbrite booking fee.
Any questions, please email Louise via cvs@ndvs.org.uk or phone 01271 866300

Emergency First Aid at Work 1/2-day course
2025-02-26 09:30 - 13:30 (Europe/London) | North Devon Hospice, Deer Park Road, Barnstaple, EX32 0HU, Barnstaple, EX32 0HU, GB
Emergency First Aid at Work 1/2-day course

THIS COURSE IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS OF VOLUNTARY AND COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS
This 1/2 day course (9.30 – 1.30pm) based at North Devon Hospice,Deer Park, Barnstaple, Devon, EX32 0HU , is recommended and recognised by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE)
On completion of training, successful candidates should be able to:
1. assess the situation and circumstances in order to act safely, promptly and effectively in an emergency
2. demonstrate how to administer first aid safely, promptly and effectively to a casualty who is unconscious and/or in seizure
3. demonstrate how to administer cardiopulmonary resuscitation promptly and effectively
4. use an AED
The course duration is 4 hours and participants will recieve a certificate and manual as part of the course.
Cost: £30 pp

Northern Devon Community Developers Forum
2025-02-25 09:30 - 12:00 (Europe/London) | North Devon Hospice, Deer Park Road, Barnstaple, EX32 0HU, Barnstaple, EX32 0HU, GB
A forum for all Northern Devon Community Developers to connect, collaborate and develop.

Location to be confirmed.
The aim of the Forum is to bring together Community Developers/ Connectors/ Ambassadors/ Animators working in Northern Devon to share experiences, best practice, opportunities and ideas. To develop a strong voice representing Northern Devon, connecting and promoting joint working, and tackling issues together which affect our communities.
This forum will offer an opportunity to meet every quarter and is open to any organisation hosting or employing staff supporting Community Development.
Each quarter we will have focused debate on key areas identified by the group, an opportunity for guest presentations (prebooked) and plenty of networking.
Tea/Coffee and Cake are an essential part of our meeting.

Youth Mental Health First Aid Training - 2 Day Online Course
2025-02-18 09:00 - 2025-02-19 17:00 (Europe/London) | Online Event
The course is for anyone who works with, lives with, or supports young people aged 8-18 years.

THIS 2 DAY COURSE IS AVAILABLE TO EMPLOYEES AND VOLUNTEERS OF VOLUNTARY AND COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS WHO WORK DIRECTLY WITH YOUNG PEOPLE AGED 8-18 YEARS.
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an internationally recognised training course which teaches people how to spot the signs and symptoms of mental ill health and provide help on a first aid basis.
MHFA England training won’t teach you to be a therapist, but just like physical first aid, it will teach you to listen, reassure and respond, even in a crisis .

DATES: Tuesday 18th
TIMES: 9am – 5pm
Wednesday 19th February
TIMES: 9am – 5pm
LOCATION: This is an online course.

The outcomes of the course are:
As a MHFAider®️, you will be able to:

Explain what mental health is
Describe how to look after your own mental health and wellbeing
Describe the signs of possible poor mental health in young people
Explain some of the risk factors associated with poor mental health in young people
Demonstrate how to apply the youth MHFA action plan (ALGEE) in a Youth Mental Health First Aid conversation
Describe the role of a Youth MHFAider

COST: £35 pp to cover certification and resources.
Any questions, please email Louise via cvs@ndvs.org.uk or phone 01271 866300

Barnstaple Revitalising Volunteer Event - 17.15 - 18.15
2025-02-12 17:15 - 18:15 (Europe/London) | Barnstaple Library, Tuly Street, Barnstaple, EX31 1EL, Barnstaple, EX31 1EL, GB
An event for all ages of the community, looking at the benefits of volunteering, and opportunities available locally.

Revitalising Volunteer Event – General attendance booking form
Join us for an exciting and interactive event aimed at revitalising volunteering in our community, there will be three time slots and refreshments will be provided.
Date: Wed 12th February 2025
15.00 – 16.15 SESSION
15.00 – Louise Flagg NDVS gives an introduction on the benefits of volunteering followed by an opportunity to meet and talk to representatives and volunteers from a group of local organisations and discover how 2025 can be the year you can make a difference in your community.
Location: Barnstaple Library – Upstairs in 3B (lift access available)
To secure your spot at this exciting event, please complete the booking form below.
We look forward to seeing you there!

Barnstaple Revitalising Volunteer Event - 16.15 - 17.15
2025-02-12 16:15 - 17:15 (Europe/London) | Barnstaple Library, Tuly Street, Barnstaple, EX31 1EL, Barnstaple, EX31 1EL, GB

Barnstaple Revitalising Volunteer Event - 15.00 - 16.15
2025-02-12 15:00 - 16:15 (Europe/London) | Barnstaple Library, Tuly Street, Barnstaple, EX31 1EL, Barnstaple, EX31 1EL, GB

Supporting Neurodivergent Employees/Peers Training
2025-02-04 13:00 - 15:30 (Europe/London) | The Plant Bar Vegan Cafe, 9 The Strand, Barnstaple, EX31 1EU, Barnstaple, EX31 1EU, GB
This training is facilitated by Alex Kelly from Waymakers providing insights and approaches for supporting neurodivergent workers.

Facilitated by Alex Kelly from Waymakers commissioned by NDVS, thanks to Barnstaple Town Council.
AIM: To equip managers with insights and approaches for supporting neurodivergent employees.
To include:

An exploration of language and terminology relating to neurodivergence;
Understanding information processing and sensory differences, and how dealing with barriers can show up for different people;
Practical activities in which attendees reflect on and evaluate ways to develop a needs-based approach to supporting staff.

How to Recruit, Supervise and Retain Peer Volunteers
2025-01-30 12:45 - 16:15 (Europe/London) | Queens House, 6 Queen Street, Barnstaple, EX32 8HJ, Barnstaple, EX32 8HJ, GB
How to recruit, supervise and retain peer volunteers.

How to Recruit, Supervise, and Retain Peer and Lived Experience Volunteers
The most vital component of any peer support programme is the peers themselves. These peers will have lived experience of the condition they support, and therefore have additional support needs to other volunteers.
People providing peer support to others in similar situations can provide unique perspectives and true empathy to the people they support. On the other hand, people living with similar situations can be hard to persuade that they are capable of being mentors, may still be struggling with their own situation (which can make the even better mentors), or may find themselves triggered by the negative experiences of others who are not coping well.
Aims
This workshop will support organisations to consider the recruitment, training, supervising, and retaining of peer volunteers, helping to ensure the sustainability of your peer support programme.
Objectives
By the end of this workshop participants will:

Understanding the skills and knowledge necessary for the retention of peer support volunteers
Be able to plan effective supervision and continuous professional development of volunteers.

Our workshop includes:

Recruitment: how to promote peer support roles and encourage applications from potential lived-experience volunteers
Training: what skills and preparation r peer volunteers may need to fulfil their role
Supervision: how to provide effective and meaningful support to your peer volunteers
Retention: How to ensure active, engaged and long-standing peer volunteers.

Who is it for?
This workshop is for voluntary, community, and social enterprise organisations across the UK. Participants will not require any prior knowledge of volunteer recruitment to participate. There will be a maximum of 15 participants per workshop.

Supervision Skills Training
2025-01-22 09:30 - 16:00 UTC | Family Compass, Old Town Station, North Walk, Barnstaple, Devon, EX31 1DF, United Kingdom
Back by popular demand – after running previous successful cohorts.
Course aim:
Throughout the two days there is space to consider real life scenarios, ethical dilemmas, the place for creativity in our supervision approaches and the importance of reflective practice.
•To equip participants with the knowledge to develop a systematic approach to effective supervision
•To further develop participants’ skills and confidence to deliver effective supervision
Course objectives:
By the end of the course participants will have had opportunities to:
•Explore participant’s knowledge, experience and attitude to supervision, both personal and organisational
•Consider an ‘integrated approach’ to supervision
•Agree some basic principles in delivering effective supervision
•Create a checklist of items that should be included on a supervision agenda
•Consider the range of skills, qualities and roles involved in supervision
•Explore and practise ideas to improve effective challenging and intervention in situations that arise within supervision sessions
•Be introduced to a range of theoretical frameworks
9.30 – 4.30 each day.
Nearest parking is Commercial Rd or Cattle Market. Cheaper long stay parking 5 mins walk away at Fairview
Trainer: Susan Moores (Training Exchange)
Delivery: In-person
Trainer’s background: Susan brings 30 years of varied experience in ‘people work’ to her training delivery with the company. She has been in many paid and unpaid roles in community and youth work, voluntary sector development and management. Her approach to supervision is grounded in values that recognise the personal story and collective endeavour, whilst also paying attention to organisational change and the wider context in which we work. She is committed to reflective practice, and in all roles Susan works from the heart to make a positive contribution. She is currently working across the South West and loves her voluntary role with Plymouth Scrapstore.
Other dates available.
We need 16 people to run this event.
Please get in touch if you would like any further information.

Boundaries in the Workplace & Voluntary Settings
2024-12-11 11:00 - 15:00 UTC | Queens House, 6 Queen Street, Barnstaple, Devon, EX32 8HJ, United Kingdom
Boundaries in the Workplace
What are boundaries, and why do we have them?
Many organisations have been experiencing greater numbers of people attending their centres and accessing their services during this period, and those visiting are often coming with more complex circumstances than we have the capacity to manage. This can have a significant impact on us as service providers.
Professional and personal boundaries are key to keep service-users, staff, and organisations, safe, effective, and professional. They help us to utilise our skills in the most appropriate way within our professional roles, and to ensure consistency of service and management of the expectation of service-users. But what are boundaries, and what can make it difficult to maintain them?
Our workshop explores the various aspects of boundaries in the workplace, using open discussion of our own boundaries, case studies of situations that can arise, and how we can manage the maintenance of boundaries through internal and external policies and personal accountability.
Aims
This workshop is designed to support staff and organisations in the voluntary, community, and social enterprises (VCSEs) to consider, plan, and implement personal and professional boundaries in the workplace.
Objectives
By the end of this workshop participants will:

Understand their personal and professional boundaries
Be confident in how to manage boundary issues
Have explored situations that can occur, and how they can be managed.
Consider implementing boundaries policies, and how they can support staff and service-users.

Our workshop includes:

What boundaries are and why we have them
What can make it difficult to maintain boundaries
Case studies that explore situations that can occur, and how we might apply effective boundary management.
Developing policies that support effective boundary management in your organisation.

Who is it for?
This workshop is for staff and volunteers of organisations who provide supportive services across the UK, especially those in public-facing roles. Participants will not require any prior knowledge of boundaries to participate. There will be a maximum of 15 participants per workshop to allow for meaningful engagement.
Ticket Prices:
Volunteers – Free
Voluntary Organisation (NDVS Partner) – £20.00
Non-Voluntary Organisation – £60.00

NDVS Corporate Breakfast
2024-12-05 08:15 - 09:45 UTC | The Cedars Inn Hotel, Bickington Road, Barnstaple, Devon, EX31 2HE, United Kingdom
As your local Council for Voluntary Services (CVS) we often get approached to support our local wonderful businesses and entrepreneurs, in helping to match local volunteer opportunities and projects, to Corporate Social Responsibility strategies including Giving Back Days
We know many businesses have a Good Cause Charitable pot and again we are in the business of helping support those that need it most.
So why not join us before the start of another busy day in the corporate business world – baps and coffee/tea will be provided – to hear about how we might collaborate and support each other.
After all happy and healthy community members – make happy and healthy customers and employees (in most cases)
We are proposing:
Brief overview from Marie Gould MBA – Chief Officer of NDVS alongside Beki Sharples (our sister CVS over in Torridge) alongside Representative of “The Woodyard” Management Committee

CVS and Third Sector funding landscape
National Lottery Successful Bid of £464,000.00 its proposed impact and match-funding needs and opportunities. including form part of the North Devon Community Development Alliance
The Woodyard Project – bring Ann Cleeves’ fictional community hub to life.

A brief talk about all things community from Neil Blackburn, Partnership’s Officer of Active Devon CIC
Corporate Giving – days or donations – how can we help?
Devon Connect – explanation of the opportunities provided by our online platform
NDVS Charity Christmas Card Sales
A chance to network and ask questions
Thank you so very much in advance
Any queries or questions do get in touch.

Northern Devon Community Developers Forum
2024-11-28 10:00 - 12:30 UTC | Brynsworthy Environment Centre, Main Meeting Room, Fremington, EX31 3NP, United Kingdom
The aim of the Forum is to bring together Community Developers/Connectors/Ambassadors/Animators working in Northern Devon to share experience, best practice, opportunities and ideas. To develop a strong voice representing Northern Devon, connecting and promoting joint working, and tackling issues together which affect our communities.
This forum will offer an opportunity to meet every other month alternating with the One Communities OND meeting and is open to any orgnaisation hosting or employing staff supporting Community Development.
The first meeting will be on Tuesday 28th November between 10am and 12.30pm at Brynsworthy Environment Centre. Parking is free but limited so if you can car share that may help.
We will start our session with free some CPD on Building Team Trust lead by Change Facilitator from Nowlab which you will be able to take away and undertake with your own teams or groups. Trust is crucial in building strong, effective, and enjoyable teams. Trust fosters open communication, mutual respect, and collaborative problem-solving, empowering your group to make a significant impact in your local community.
Join us for an interactive session featuring the Trust Constellation Game, designed to cultivate connection and strengthen trust within your teams.
This session will equip you with practical strategies to create a more inclusive and supportive environment within your group, developing essential skills for effective communication, conflict resolution, camaraderie and more.
We will have an opportunity to hear about the NDVS/TTVS lottery funded Community Developer and Connector Roles with an overview of the National Standards being used to evaluate the project. Plus an overview of the Community Animators roles as part of the new Biosphere Lottery Funded project. Any other organisation wishing to update on new initiatives please contact Louise Flagg Partnership Officer NDVS to book a slot on the agenda cvs@ndvs.org.uk. This will give plenty of time to discuss our Northern Devon priorities and an opportunity for a round robin where participants can share where they are based and their current community projects.
Tea/Coffee and Cake are an essential part of our meeting.
Community Development National Occupational Standards Overview
Community development enables people to work collectively together in a structured and co-ordinated way to bring about positive social change to achieve equality, social justice, climate justice and human rights. It is underpinned by a clear set of values and ethical principles.
This long-term process starts with people’s own experience and enables communities* to work together to:
● identify the needs and actions they wish to address
● plan and take collective action
● build on and strengthen their confidence, skills and knowledge
● challenge unequal power relationships
● promote social justice, equality and participation in order to improve the quality of their own lives, the communities in which they live and societies of which they are a part.
The National Standards of Community Development identify 6 core areas
Key Area 1: Understand and practise community development
Key Area 2: Understand and engage with communities
Key Area 3: Collective Action and Group work
Key Area 4: Collaborative and cross-sectoral working
Key Area 5: Community learning for social change
Key Area 6: Governance and organisational development
