News

NEW! Guide to Services for Older People in St. Albans & District

Mon 29 Apr 2019

Communities 1st (formerly known as Community Central or the CVS for St. Albans and District) are happy to announce the publication of a brand new “Guide to Services for Older People”.

Produced with support from St. Albans City and District Council the guide includes useful information about activities and support available throughout the District. Readers will be able to easily look for help through the booklets colour-coded edges for each section which include Benefits, Bereavement, Care Support, Community Care, Mental Health and Wellbeing Services, Getting Online, Eyesight/Hearing, Equipment Hire, Finance, Housing, Pets and Transport.

Copies of the Guide can be picked up from the Communities 1st office of the Civic Centre Reception at the Civic Centre (Council Offices, St. Peter’s Street). A reference copy will be available at Libraries, the town and parish councils.

Stephen Craker, Chief Executive, Communities 1st says “This easy to use new guide will be a valuable tool for older people, helping them find services and community groups that can provide the support they need.”

An online version of this guide is available on both the St. Albans City and District websites www.stalbans.gov.uk/community-and-living/olderandyounger/older as well as Communities 1st website www.communities1st.org.uk

8 January 2019

Volunteer Coordinator Network

Sun 24 Mar 2019

The Community Hertsmere Volunteer Coordinator Network  provides a supportive environment for volunteer managers across Hertsmere to share resources, knowledge and best practice in order to maximise the potential of volunteers and provide an excellent service to their placement organisations.

The Community Hertsmere Volunteer Coordinator Network Forum is ideal for managers, recruiters or supervisors to come and learn about best practice in volunteer management, network with partners and share experience of managing volunteers.  

The event is free if your organisation is a full member of Community Hertsmere and £15 per person for non–members.  For details of membership benefits and costs please go to 'become a member' page or email memberservices@communityhertsmere.org.uk

Community Hertsmere Volunteer Coordinator Network  Forum Events 2018
Tuesday 15 May, 9.30am - 12noon
Tuesday 23 October, 9.30am – 12noon

 

Hertsmere 3rd Sector Network

Sun 24 Mar 2019

The Community Hertsmere 3rd Sector Network aims to bring together volunteers and officers working in voluntary organisations, charities and social enterprises from across Hertsmere to act as a hub, providing a mechanism both for sharing information, collecting views and to further enable partnership working.

The Community Hertsmere 3rd Sector Network Forum is open to volunteers and officers working in voluntary organisations, charities and social enterprises from across Hertsmere to encourage partnership working, promote networking and provide support. At each event there is a short presentation on a relevant theme, followed by a chance to network and share good practice.

The event is free if your organisation is a full member of Community Hertsmere and £15 per person for non–members.  For details of membership benefits and costs please go to 'become a member' page or email memberservices@communityhertsmere.org.uk

Community Hertsmere 3rd Sector Network Forum Events 2018/19

  • Tuesday 27 February 2018, 9.30am – 11.30am
  • Tuesday 19 June 2018, 9.30am – 11.30am

 

New! Computers and a Cuppa

Wed 7 Mar 2018

Community Hertsmere working in partnership with Affinity Sutton are launching ‘Computers and a Cuppa’ to promote and support the use of digital technologies by older people.

Sessions will start on Tuesday 4 July from 2pm – 4pm at our Outreach Hub at Radlett Community Centre.   and will be held every first and third Tuesdays,. The funding from Affinity Sutton has allowed this initiative to be held in Community Herstsmere’s community hubs in Borehamwood, Radlett and Potters Bar.

Getting people online not only offers practical assistance, but a whole host of benefits such as improved attention, communication and memory skills and less dependence on medication. Engaging the elderly in learning activities, improves the quality of their lives and reduces the costs of health and social care.

Stephen Craker, Chief Executive Community Hertsmere says "We are delighted to be working with Affinity Sutton to provide a much needed service for older people. A lot of older learners say that learning gives them confidence and a second chance to learn things they were not able to do before. We really wanted to increase older people’s services across Hertsmere and the funding will allow us to do that."

If you'd like to get involved to either learn about using computers, or to help out at any of these sessions email engagement@communityhertsmere.org.uk

Hertfordshire Students’ Union and Community Hertsmere working together to promote volunteering opportunities

Tue 28 Mar 2017

Hertfordshire Students’ Union and Community Hertsmere working together to promote volunteering opportunities

Hertfordshire University Students’ Union (HSU) and Community Hertsmere have signed an historic agreement to work together to promote volunteering opportunities across Hertfordshire to HSU students.

This new alliance will see volunteering opportunities from Community Hertsmere and its accredited members advertised to HSU students, giving them access to hundreds of volunteering opportunities across Hertsmere.

This agreement is the first of its kind in the county and will enable students to gain constructive work experience, whilst supporting a wide range of social, health and environmental organisations.

Stuart Nagler, Chair of Community Hertsmere said ‘This is a fantastic chance for HSU students to reap the rewards of volunteering and for Hertsmere to benefit from the amazing work of volunteers.’

Grainne O’Monghain, President of HSU said ‘Volunteering offers a fantastic opportunity for our students to gain essential workplace skills, whilst supporting the local community. We are delighted to be working with Community Hertsmere for the future of HSU students and Hertfordshire’.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

Jude Holt, Volunteer Centre Co-ordinator, Community Hertsmere:

Tel: 020 3457 7537     Email: volunteer@communityhertsmere.co.uk

 

Steve Owen, Assistant Student Engagement Manager, Hertfordshire Students’ Union

Tel: 01707 286151      Email: s.owen3@herts.ac.uk

 

View latest press releases

Volunteer Speaker

Fri 17 Mar 2017

About the opportunity

We are a small friendly team of staff and volunteers from a wide range of backgrounds.  As a Volunteer Speaker you will represent the Communities 1st at events and meetings. You will be confident in speaking

about the cause and the work of the charity and you will develop relationships with key supporters and individuals as part of the process.

Raising awareness of who we are and what we do is very important to the charity so we are looking for a proactive volunteer who will seek out speaking opportunities and make asks on behalf of the charity to attend events where further awareness can be raised.

 

What will I be doing?
Attending events and meetings on behalf of Communities 1st. The events and activities the charity is invited to vary from large conferences or fundraising activities such as supporter coffee mornings, quiz nights and cheque presentation opportunities.

Using all events as an opportunity to engage existing and new audiences in the work of Communities 1st.

Listening to supporters and members of the public at events to find out more about their charity giving and any knowledge or experience they have had with Communities 1st.

Recognising opportunities to exchange contact details and develop relationships.

Feeding back to the Chief Executive on events, key individuals and any action to be followed up.

 

About the Organisation

Since being created in 2009 from a merger of two community organisations within Hertsmere, Communities 1st has grown into a successful charitable organisation with strong links to the communities in which we work.

 

Communities 1st aims to develop and promote a healthier and more thriving community by supporting and enabling people to become more actively involved in the community.  We encourage individual volunteering and support groups working to achieve benefits for our community.  

 

Our specific projects have been supported by reputable funders such as the National Lottery, European Social Fund, Hertfordshire County Council, Hertsmere Borough Council and Affinity Sutton Housing as well as many local businesses.

 

We involve volunteers in a variety of roles and have something to suit all skills, talents, interests and availability. You will be valued and supported in whichever role you decide to undertake and the chances are you'll have fun too!

 

What are they looking for?

  • Excellent oral communication. Representing the charity is an important role and can effect subsequent fundraising and engagement with the charity so you should be confident to deliver key messages clearly and enthusiastically.
  • You should be happy to be photographed for the press and be able to thank donors appropriately for donations.
  • Good interpersonal skills
  • Relationship building - when attending events you are the eyes and ears for the Chief Executive.
  • You will be adaptable to different situations and ensure you research and prepare material appropriate for your audiences.
  • Flexible to attend events at irregular dates and times throughout the year.
  • Reporting and evaluation skills
  • Commit at least 1 day per month

 

Practical Considerations

No formal qualifications or prior guiding experience are required to volunteer with us.

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and abilities.

A full charity induction will be given before the volunteer starts with us and ongoing training is offered depending on which event you are working on.

Home based and in your local area.

References will be required from applications and will be taken up.

Please apply asap as applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Volunteers MUST be over 16 (or be accompanied by an adult if under 16).

A minimum of six months commitment is required.

 

Benefits:

  • Once a number of sessions have been completed we will be happy to provide a reference.
  • Gain basic office skills, with an opportunity to progress into more varied roles.
  • Out of pocket expenses reimbursed.
  • Satisfaction of helping people
  • Positive work environment, part of the friendly Community Hertsmere team
  • Training in Equality and Diversity, Customer Service

 

View Volunteering Opportunities

Note Taker

Fri 17 Mar 2017

Communities 1st is looking for a Volunteer Note Taker to attend about 10 meetings a year to take notes throughout the meeting.

 

This role offers a great opportunity for the right person who is looking to; gain experience in the Third Sector; develop their office based and management experience; or just simply 'give something back to their community'.  The role is for you if you are looking for flexibility and autonomy.


What will I be doing?

  • Attend meetings during the day as required
  • Take and process notes/minutes
  • Use office equipment i.e. photocopier, shredder
  • Circulate, notes/minutes
  • Any other task appropriate to the post

 

About the Organisation

Since being created in 2009 from a merger of two community organisations within Hertsmere, Communities 1st has grown into a successful charitable organisation with strong links to the communities in which we work.

 

Communities 1st aims to develop and promote a healthier and more thriving community by supporting and enabling people to become more actively involved in the community.  We encourage individual volunteering and support groups working to achieve benefits for our community. 

 

Our specific projects have been supported by reputable funders such as the National Lottery, European Social Fund, Hertfordshire County Council, Hertsmere Borough Council and Affinity Sutton Housing as well as many local businesses.

 

We involve volunteers in a variety of roles and have something to suit all skills, talents, interests and availability. You will be valued and supported in whichever role you decide to undertake and the chances are you'll have fun too!

 

What are they looking for?

We are looking for someone with the following skills and experience

  • Committed to working with the community with a passion for helping others less fortunate.
  • Good written skills able to speak confidently with variety of stakeholders
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality
  • Ability to monitor and maintain own standards and pay attention to detail
  • Good interpersonal skills
  • Flexible approach and willingness to work as part of a team
  • Proficiency in Microsoft word
  • Ability to work independently and ask for clarification when needed
  • Commit at least 1 day per month

 

Practical Considerations

This opportunity is suitable for those people who would like to get office based experience.

No formal qualifications or prior guiding experience are required to volunteer with us.

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and abilities.

A full charity induction will be given before the volunteer starts with us and ongoing training is offered depending on which event you are working on.

Home based and in your local area.

References will be required from applications and will be taken up.

Please apply asap as applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Volunteers MUST be over 16 (or be accompanied by an adult if under 16).

A minimum of six months commitment is required.

 

Benefits:

  • Once a number of sessions have been completed we will be happy to provide a reference.
  • Gain basic office skills, with an opportunity to progress into more varied roles.
  • Out of pocket expenses reimbursed.
  • Satisfaction of helping people
  • Positive work environment, part of the friendly Community Hertsmere team
  • Training in Equality and Diversity, Customer Service

 

View Volunteering Opportunities

Volunteer Interviewer

Fri 17 Mar 2017

The role of Volunteer Interviewer would suit someone who is confident and outgoing with excellent communication skills.

You will interview members of the public on a one to one basis and discuss various volunteering opportunities with them that are available. You will also need to be able to assist in the completion of some

application forms on some occasions.

 

About the Organisation

Since being created in 2009 from a merger of two community organisations within Hertsmere, Communities 1st has grown into a successful charitable organisation with strong links to the communities in which we work.

 

Communities 1st aims to develop and promote a healthier and more thriving community by supporting and enabling people to become more actively involved in the community.  We encourage individual volunteering and support groups working to achieve benefits for our community.  

 

Our specific projects have been supported by reputable funders such as the National Lottery, European Social Fund, Hertfordshire County Council, Hertsmere Borough Council and Affinity Sutton Housing as well as many local businesses.

 

We involve volunteers in a variety of roles and have something to suit all skills, talents, interests and availability. You will be valued and supported in whichever role you decide to undertake and the chances are you'll have fun too!

 

What are they looking for?

We are looking for someone with the following skills and experience

  • Committed to working with the community with a passion for helping others less fortunate.
  • Good interpersonal skills
  • Flexible approach and willingness to work as part of a team
  • Good organisational skills
  • Ability to document effectively
  • Ability to actively listen
  • Must be reliable
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality
  • Commit at least 1 day per month

 

Practical Considerations

Although no previous interviewing experience is necessary it would be an advantage.

No formal qualifications or prior guiding experience are required to volunteer with us.

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and abilities.

A full charity induction will be given before the volunteer starts with us and ongoing training is offered depending on which event you are working on.

Home based and in your local area.

References will be required from applications and will be taken up.

Please apply asap as applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Volunteers MUST be over 16 (or be accompanied by an adult if under 16).

A minimum of six months commitment is required.

 

Benefits:

  • Once a number of sessions have been completed we will be happy to provide a reference.
  • Gain basic office skills, with an opportunity to progress into more varied roles.
  • Out of pocket expenses reimbursed.
  • Satisfaction of helping people
  • Positive work environment, part of the friendly Community Hertsmere team
  • Training in Equality and Diversity, Customer Service

 

View Volunteering Opportunities

Volunteer Centre Team Member

Fri 17 Mar 2017

About the opportunity

We’re looking to grow our team at the Volunteer Centre and increase the number of people volunteering in the district.  Our Volunteers are the first point of contact for people accessing the centre and need to

be reliable, friendly and enjoy helping people.

The roles are varied and provide volunteers with a wide range of skills and experience in a busy office of a thriving local charity.

 

What will I be doing?

Tasks that a volunteer role might include are listed below to give an example of the work that we do, but we’re keen to hear from anyone who can be flexible and wants to make a difference.

  • Working on reception answering telephone calls and dealing with enquiries from individuals and organisations
  • Greeting visitors to the centre, establishing the purpose of their visit and providing them with information or ensuring they are looked after by the right member of the team as appropriate
  • Using our extensive volunteering database, inputting registration forms and processing online volunteer applications
  • Responding to emails
  • Creating suitable portfolios of volunteering opportunities that match the interests, skills and availability of each client
  • Promoting the work of the Volunteer Centre throughout the District
  • Assisting us with our social media strategy
  • Supporting our pop-up volunteer centres in Bushey, Potters Bar and Radlett

 

About the Organisation
Since being created in 2009 from a merger of two community organisations within Hertsmere, Communities 1st has grown into a successful charitable organisation with strong links to the communities in which we work.

 

Communities 1st aims to develop and promote a healthier and more thriving community by supporting and enabling people to become more actively involved in the community.  We encourage individual volunteering and support groups working to achieve benefits for our community. 

 

Our specific projects have been supported by reputable funders such as the National Lottery, European Social Fund, Hertfordshire County Council, Hertsmere Borough Council and Affinity Sutton Housing as well as many local businesses.

 

We involve volunteers in a variety of roles and have something to suit all skills, talents, interests and availability. You will be valued and supported in whichever role you decide to undertake and the chances are you'll have fun too!

 

What are they looking for?

We are looking for someone with the following skills and experience

  • Committed to working with the community with a passion for helping others less fortunate.
  • Good written skills able to speak confidently with variety of stakeholders
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality
  • Ability to monitor and maintain own standards and pay attention to detail
  • Good interpersonal skills
  • Flexible approach and willingness to work as part of a team
  • Proficiency in Microsoft word
  • Ability to work independently and ask for clarification when needed
  • We need volunteers to be able to commit to at least three hours a fortnight for a minimum period of 3 months

 

Practical Considerations

This opportunity is suitable for those people who would like to get office based experience.

No formal qualifications or prior guiding experience are required to volunteer with us.

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and abilities.

A full charity induction will be given before the volunteer starts with us and ongoing training is offered depending on which event you are working on.

Home based and in your local area.

References will be required from applications and will be taken up.

Please apply asap as applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Volunteers MUST be over 16 (or be accompanied by an adult if under 16).

We need volunteers to be able to commit to at least three hours a fortnight for a minimum period of 6 months

 

Benefits:

  • Once a number of sessions have been completed we will be happy to provide a reference.
  • Gain basic office skills, with an opportunity to progress into more varied roles.
  • Out of pocket expenses reimbursed.
  • Satisfaction of helping people
  • Positive work environment, part of the friendly Community Hertsmere team
  • Training in Equality and Diversity, Customer Service

 

View Volunteering Opportunities

Trustee

Fri 17 Mar 2017

We are looking for Trustees with particular skills to strengthen our current Board of Trustees. You may be a solicitor, retail worker, mum or dad with time to influence, a HR professional with drive and ambition or you are just reading this and believe you are the right person to join our Board.

 

We are looking for your commitment, passion, understanding and a can-do attitude.

 

To serve on the board, you will have the time to read detailed papers and take part in regular trustee meetings as well as make a creative contribution as a trustee.

 

The board is currently made up of local people who volunteer their time and expertise in order to shape the destiny of Community Hertsmere, safeguard its interests and ensure financial stability.

 

The main responsibilities of a Trustee is to:

  • Attend Board meetings
  • Help the Board of Trustees in their role of setting the strategy and policy of the organisation.
  • Act as a spokesperson for the organisation where appropriate.
  • Act with integrity, reasonableness and prudence.
  • Understand the legal and financial responsibilities of being a trustee, the liabilities and implications of decisions.
  • Exercise responsibilities in accordance with the Governing Document.

 

If you have the experience and skill sets in the following areas and are looking to work at Board Level, we would love to hear from you:

  • Networking
  • Legal matters 
  • Property
  • Personnel
  • Health & Safety

 

A knowledge of trusteeship and committee work will be an advantage.

We are keen to develop a diverse board of trustees and advisors and we welcome applicants from all areas of the community.

 

About the Organisation

Since being created in 2009 from a merger of two community organisations within Hertsmere, Community Hertsmere has grown into a successful charitable organisation with strong links to the communities in which we work.

 

Community Hertsmere aims to develop and promote a healthier and more thriving community by supporting and enabling people to become more actively involved in the community.  We encourage individual volunteering and support groups working to achieve benefits for our community. 

 

Our specific projects have been supported by reputable funders such as the National Lottery, European Social Fund, Hertfordshire County Council, Hertsmere Borough Council and Affinity Sutton Housing as well as many local businesses.

 

What are they looking for?

We are looking for someone with the following skills and experience

  • Committed to working with the community with a passion for helping others less fortunate.
  • Good written skills able to speak confidently with variety of stakeholders
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality
  • Good interpersonal skills
  • Flexible approach and willingness to work as part of a team
  • Commit at least 1 day per month

 

Practical Considerations

A full charity induction will be given before the volunteer starts with us and ongoing training is offered

Home based and in your local area.

References will be required from applications and will be taken up.

Please apply asap as applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

 

Benefits:

  • Out of pocket expenses reimbursed.
  • Satisfaction of helping people

 

View Volunteering Opportunities

Pages