Representation and Liaison

Communities 1st works to support the voice and influence of the voluntary, community and social and faith enterprise organisations (VCSFEs) across the districts of St Albans, Hertsmere and beyond.

Our Role

Communities 1st supports the voice and influence of voluntary, community, social, and faith enterprise organisations (VCSFEs) across St Albans, Hertsmere, and beyond.

We achieve this by:

  • Facilitating local forums to encourage strategic priorities and collaboration.
  • Understanding the challenges our members face and promoting their work.
  • Keeping decision-makers informed about the value of the sector.
One of our staff members, Emily, at AGM Conference 2024.

We amplify the voice of voluntary, community, social, and faith organisations

Through partnerships, forums, and advocacy, we support collaboration, promote their work, and secure vital funding for the sector.

How We Represent Our Members

Many of our member organisations are small and lack the resources to effectively communicate their needs. We help amplify their collective voice by:

Advocacy & Partnerships

  • Representing the community sector in strategic partnerships, including: St Albans District Council and Hertsmere Borough Council’s Strategic, Economic, Health & Wellbeing, and Inclusion & Equalities Partnerships.
     
  • Attending over 20 forums annually, such as: Faith and Culture Enterprise (FACE), Loneliness, Public Health, Parish meetings, and Herts County Council consultations.

Events & Engagement

  • Delivering an annual conference based on key issues raised by our members, attended by decision-makers.
     
  • Conducting member surveys to understand and represent their views accurately.
     
  • Providing regular digital communication through newsletters, social media, radio, and local press.

Business & Funding Support

  • Promoting social responsibility within the local business community.
     
  • Collaborating with District and County Councils to highlight the sector's value and advocate for continued funding.

Our Impact

Our members value our role in ensuring their voices are heard and their work is recognised.

Feedback from our surveys highlights the importance of our representative efforts in strengthening the VCSFE sector.

Contact us

For more information, email us at memberservices@communities1st.org.uk or call 01727 649940.

Our telephone lines are open on Monday - Friday, 09:00 - 17:00.