South Somerset District Council has provided South Somerset VCA with funding of £74,250 for 2013/14. South Somerset VCA provides advice and support to voluntary and community organisations across the district.
630 organisations now receive regular bulletins and have access to help with funding advice, business planning, legal advice and updates on issues/legislation that affect the voluntary sector.
SSVCA operate a Volunteer Centre which matches potential volunteers with suitable placements. Groups can attend voluntary sector forum meetings to network with other groups, visit the SSVCA website for a wide range of resources and information or arrange a 1-1 meeting with a specialist adviser. SSVCA also play an important role in representing the voluntary sector and highlighting issues to government to influence policies. SSVCA can be contracted on 01935 475914 or by visiting www.ssvca.org.uk
Sylvia Seal, portfolio holder for Leisure & Culture at South Somerset District Council said, “South Somerset VCA provides a very valuable service to voluntary and community groups across South Somerset. As public funding is being squeezed we are all having to find more creative ways of generating income and running services. Whether you are setting up a new group or you are finding it challenging raising funds or finding volunteers, I would encourage you to contact SSVCA who will be able to give you advice and support tailored to your needs”.
Sam Best, Chief Executive at SSVCA added, “We have worked in partnership with the council for many years, supporting voluntary organisations in South Somerset. Our services aim to support groups to develop their skills to become stronger and more resilient, enabling them to continue to deliver their much needed services to our communities”.