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20th May 2020
E-Zine
Date 2016
Welcome to Supporting Communities 143rd Edition of E-Zine, bringing you Best Practice
from the Community Sector; Funding and Training Updates and Policy Developments in
Northern Ireland, Great Britain and Republic of Ireland plus Coronavirus information
NI Executive publishes Coronavirus recovery strategy
A phased five-stage plan for slowly moving out
of lockdown has been published by the
Executive.
The document sets out the approach the Executive
will take when deciding how to ease restrictions in
the future.
In making decisions, the Executive will consider Deputy First Minister Michelle O’Neill said: “We
three key criteria: The most up-to-date scientific don’t underestimate the impact that the severe
evidence; the ability of the health service to cope; restrictions have had on everyone across our
and the wider impacts on our health, society and society. While they are still absolutely necessary, it
the economy. is important that we give people hope for the
future.
First Minister Arlene Foster said: “We recognise
how difficult the current restrictions are. But those Today we have set out our pathway for future
restrictions, and the determined people of Northern recovery which gives an indication of how the
Ireland who have adhered to them, have saved restrictions on different aspects of life may be
lives and continue to do so. eased at various stages.
“We don’t want to keep any restriction in place any The incremental five-step approach reflects the risk
longer than we have to, but in relaxing any -based judgements we will make at each stage.
measure we must be cognisant of the potential These decisions will be evidenced by medical and
effects in the transmission of the virus and our scientific advice and benchmarked against our
ability to save lives. guiding principles and international best practice.
“The Executive’s recovery strategy sets out a The Executive’s strategy is not time bound
pathway for us to emerge from lockdown in the because it’s vital that we retain the flexibility
safest way possible. This will require a series of needed to respond to the complex emerging
judgements and decisions as we move forward. situation based on all relevant evidence.
These decisions will be evidence based, taking
account of our unique circumstances here in Our recovery from Coronavirus will require a real
Northern Ireland. partnership effort with the community. We are
appealing to the public to please be patient. Keep
“As we embark on our phased recovery, we will adhering to the restrictions, follow the public health
remain focused on the health and wellbeing of our advice and stay at home. We will keep you
population; the impacts on our society; and our updated every step of the way when we are in a
economy as a whole. Above all else, our priority position to slowly and carefully move out of
will be saving lives.” lockdown.”
Minister Hargey to protect
housing supply
Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey is to introduce
legislation that will help protect the supply of new and It is my intention to consult separately on methods of
existing social and affordable homes. entry to affordable homeownership which will include
consideration of the future of the Housing Executive
The Minister obtained Executive agreement to House Sales Scheme. I am keen to support people
progress the Housing (Amendment) Bill (Northern in to homeownership as well as retain the social
Ireland) 2020 by Accelerated Passage. housing stock wherever possible.”
The Bill will change existing housing legislation to There will always be many challenges on the ability to
facilitate the reversal of the Office of National deliver new social homes such as land availability,
Statistics (ONS) decision in 2016 to reclassify infrastructure issues and the availability of public
registered Housing Associations from the private finance but the Minister outlined her commitment to
sector to the public sector. doing all she can to deliver for those in need.
Minister Hargey said: “I am committed to working with my Executive
“Housing is a priority for me and the levels of housing colleagues to deliver more housing and welcome the
stress here are no secret. I have great ambitions to priority afforded in New Decade, New Approach
deliver more housing, targeted to areas in the most which sets out how the Executive will enhance
need. To do this, we must ensure we have the investment and agree a new target for social and
means to deliver.” affordable home starts. Following this crisis,
economic and social recovery will be vitally important
Many of the changes required to existing legislation for everyone. But as I have said, whilst there are
are technical in nature. The most significant change challenges ahead, a technicality should not stand in
will be an end to the compulsory need for registered our way of delivery. This legislation will help to
housing associations to operate a House Sales maximise the possible investment in a key public
Scheme. asset.”
The Minister continued: Without a reversal of the classification decision the
“The ending of the House Sales Schemes for housing number of new social homes built each year would be
association properties is required if we are to obtain reduced significantly. It would also reduce access to
the reversal of the decision to reclassify housing the funding available for affordable housing through
associations. The Housing Executive scheme is not Co-ownership.
affected.
Minister Hargey - Executive
committed to support charity
sector during Covid19 crisis
Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey MLA has said
that she plans to launch a Covid19 Charities Fund,
valued in the region of £15million, to help support with the impacts of this emergency. I recognise the
those local charities that have been negatively impact this emergency has had on traditional
impacted by the current Covid 19 crisis. fundraising activities, and that this is a worrying time
for many in the sector.
The Minister said:
“I am acutely aware that our local charity sector, who The sector is made up of diverse groups, doing
do so much good work for such a diverse range of fantastic work in our communities.
causes, are facing difficulties during these challenging
times. Many in this sector have been at the front line Given that this is a limited fund, it is important that the
in responding to the emergency and to supporting our scheme is carefully considered and ensures the best
most vulnerable citizens now and as we plan for possible use of the resources available, to support
recovery.” and prioritise needs within the sector.
The Minister explained that her Department are “A public announcement will be made once the
working at a pace to develop a support programme funding arrangements and the application process
have been finalised and then agreed by the
She said: “My officials are urgently developing a Executive.”
Covid19 Charities Fund, to assist charities to deal
2
Survey shows RCN's groups rising to challenges of lockdown
A survey undertaken with RCN member groups
between 8th-24th April has shown how the community
and voluntary sector has stepped up to the plate in
rural communities to support their vulnerable
members.
There were 75 responses across a cross section of the These responses included delivering food parcels,
RCN membership. Half the respondents were groups collecting prescriptions, and checking in on vulnerable
with an average income of less than £25K per annum. neighbours. 59% of these groups who are providing a
97% of respondents said that their organisation had community response indicated that they can sustain
been impacted by the Covid-19 Lockdown. 85% had this work for at least several months but 33% were
cancelled events or had stopped services or activities. unsure if they could and 8% stated they would be
Nearly 60% have lost income as a result of the Covid- unable to sustain their response beyond a few months
19 lockdown and 30% have been forced to lay-off, re- without additional funding. Respondents commented
deploy or reduce hours for their staff or volunteers. that funding was needed for food parcels and meals,
22% have applied to enter staff into the Covid-19 for volunteers’ expenses and for basic PPE.
Furlough Scheme.
Funding schemes and grants to meet the needs of
26% of respondents said that the lockdown was vulnerable citizens and guidance on managing their
threatening the future financial viability of their charity were the key support from government/funders
organisation with a further 44% stating it was too early that organisations prioritised.
to judge whether their future financial viability was
under threat. 73% of organisations indicated that they If you would like to discuss the findings of our survey,
were responding to need in their community as a result please contact Aidan at the office on email
of the lockdown. aidan@ruralcommunitynetwork.org
Mallon to bring new legislation to the Assembly
to encourage use of electric bikes
Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon introduced to Minister Nichola Mallon with
the Assembly new electric bike legislation which if Stephen Martin, Sustrans
affirmed will allow their use on public roads without
the need for registration or licensing.
ensure that we deliver our commitment to increase
Minister Mallon said: the percentage of journeys made by walking and
“On 4 February I announced my intention to bring cycling.
forward legislation to encourage use of electric bikes
by removing the requirement for them to be “By cutting down on traffic congestion, and reducing
registered, licensed and insured. I am delighted to air pollution, we will also improve the quality of life for
bring this legislation to the Assembly today. If everyone in Northern Ireland. In my Department I’m
affirmed the legislative change will remove the doing all that I can to protect our communities from
prohibitive barriers and allow electric bikes to be used the impact of COVID-19, but I’m also looking forward,
on public roads. This will be an important step to towards building a better future where people are at
encourage more people regardless of age or physical the heart of place shaping and spaces are designed
ability to take up cycling to improve their health and to transform lives. Greener, cleaner, healthier and
wellbeing which has taken on more importance since happier people and places must be our aim as we
the outbreak of COVID-19. I hope that the Assembly learn to live with this new normal during and after
can support me and send a clear message to the COVID-19.”
people of Northern Ireland, that we must change the
way we live not only in the midst of this crisis, but to Sustrans Interim Director Stephen Martin said:
also tackle the climate crisis, reshaping our world and “This new legislation is long overdue and would be a
opening new opportunities that enhance our welcome boost for cycling in Northern Ireland. Cycling
communities and our wellbeing. is already being embraced during this pandemic and
this would enable many more people to try cycling. E-
“As we move towards the recovery phase of this bikes help more people get out of their cars and to
emergency, using electric bikes to travel to work or for travel in a more green and active way. We know e-
recreational purposes would provide an opportunity bikes are particularly appealing to older people, those
for people to consider an alternative way to travel or less able and residents in hillier areas or with long
enjoy their daily exercise. I recently announced the commutes. It is vital this potential development is
creation of a Walking and Cycling Champion within supported by safe infrastructure for cycling. We hope
my Department and a key role for them will be to to see the pop-up cycle lanes the Minister referred to
last week quickly implemented.”
3
PHA offers safer shopping advice
The Public Health Agency (PHA) has issued public
advice to help make shopping trips safer during the
coronavirus pandemic, and reassure shoppers about
how to look after themselves while picking up
essentials.
Dr Gerry Waldron, Head of Health Protection at the
PHA, said: “While the message is to stay at home,
clearly there is a need to do shopping for food and
other essential supplies when necessary. For many
people who are rightly socially distancing and following
guidance, going to a shop at the minute can be quite • Could you manage without certain items and
stressful, as it can mean touching communal surfaces make do? For example, you could try making
such as trolleys and baskets, and being indoors with your own bread or simply using up food in the
other people who aren’t members of your household. cupboard or freezer.
However, by following some simple steps, you can • Make a note of what items you have and when
help protect yourself and others when shopping, and they will go out of date so you can use them in
also take some of the worry out of a trip to pick up date order and avoid waste.
supplies. • Use your freezer to store perishable items such
as bread and meats.
Firstly, consider whether you are well enough to go • Don’t stockpile items you don’t need – think of
shopping in the first place. If you have a new others who may need them.
continuous cough or a high temperature, you need to • Can you get essentials for someone you know in
stay at home. If you are over 70, pregnant or in a a vulnerable group and leave them at their door?
vulnerable group, you also need to stay at home. If
you are unwell, or fall into a higher risk group, ask a Dr Waldron continued: “The same general advice for
friend or neighbour to get some essentials for you and reducing the spread of coronavirus also applies when
leave them at the door for you to collect. You may be going shopping. Before you go, wash your hands for
able to get an online delivery slot with a larger 20 seconds. During your shopping trip avoid touching
supermarket, or ring through a delivery order from a your face; use a contactless payment card if possible;
local supermarket or food retailer such as a maintain social distancing – stay 2m (around 6ft) apart
greengrocer. If you are well and are going shopping, from the next person; and wipe down the handles of
help protect yourself and others by taking some your trolley or basket before and after use with
simple, common-sense steps.” sanitiser or a disinfectant wipe. After your shopping
trip, wash your hands again for 20 seconds or use
Top tips hand sanitiser if you can’t.
• Try to reduce the number of shopping trips to
once a week. Aside from reducing the spread of coronavirus, it is
• Avoid taking children or other family members to also important to look after our mental wellbeing during
the shop. the pandemic, so by following these steps we can both
• Try to shop at off-peak times. minimise the risk from COVID-19 and also reduce our
• Try to go to quieter local shops or arrange with stress when undertaking essential shopping trips.”
local shops for collection or deliveries. Many
smaller shops are now offering local deliveries. The PHA has produced a leaflet with advice for the
• Make a shopping list and buy enough in one public, as well as posters in a range of languages for
shopping trip to feed your family for seven days retail outlets, which are available at
– the PHA has produced a meal planner as part www.pha.site/safershopping
of its new booklet ‘Advice on safer shopping
during COVID-19’.
COVID-19 Information and Signposting by Area
Supporting Communities has created a page for each of the
13 HCN areas signposting members to localised information and
resources they can use to respond to the ongoing Coronavirus
pandemic.
Groups can contact our Community Development Officer (CDO)
working in each area for support and advice.
For more information visit: https://supportingcommunities.org/local-covid19-response
For Northern Ireland wide information and links, please see this page.
4
Equality matters now more than ever
Geraldine McGahey OBE, Chief Commissioner, ECNI writes.
Equality matters in these very difficult times and ensuring that any
particularly as evidence indicates that certain equality inequalities are not
groups are especially vulnerable in relation to exacerbated, and that
contracting Covid-19 and being severely affected by individuals are not
it. exposed unnecessarily to
direct or indirect risks or further disadvantaged.
The Equality Commission, like almost all
organisations, has adapted our working practices We have also highlighted the importance of
over recent weeks. We are continuing to deliver all understanding the impact of the pandemic on
our services remotely, as staff are working from home different equality groups and the crucial need for
in line with Government advice. We continue to demographic and equality data across the full range
provide advice and support to employers, service of equality grounds to be collected and analysed by
providers and public authorities and to deal with public authorities and then used to inform how new
enquiries from people concerned about their rights. and proposed policies might affect particular groups
when the policy or service is in planning.
While recognising and supporting the work of the
Executive in introducing extraordinary measures to The Commission is also maintaining a watching brief
keep people safe, we have also been highlighting the (collating information and sources) of how the
importance of paying attention to equality issues and pandemic and the public policy measures are and
using the existing equality frameworks to help inform may further compound inequalities experienced
planning and public policy development. The Section across the equality grounds.
75 duty to pay due regard to the need to promote
equality of opportunity across 9 equality strands is a We have changed our work plans for this year in
continuing duty. order to respond to the impacts of the pandemic and
below is some of our work to date. We now have a
We have pointed out that, in making difficult specific website section - www.equalityni.org/
decisions, Ministers and officials will need to weigh Covid19 - on work in relation to the Covid-19
carefully the potential impacts that such decisions pandemic to keep everyone up to date with what we
have on those who are already disadvantaged, are doing.
New ‘Amp’ Survey Coming Soon!
Are you registered for ‘The Amp’?
Supporting Communities will be sending out a new
Amp Survey soon to learn more about your
landlord’s response to COVID-19.
We want to hear from tenants (social and private
rented) about their concerns and what they want
and expect from their housing providers during this
stressful time.
If you are not registered already, please sign up to We will use ‘The Amp’ to find out what matters to
take part and have your say. We’ll also be asking tenants and residents of all tenures and convey the
about your community’s response and would love results to regional governmental departments, local
to hear about all the positive things that are councils, and social landlords who will be able to
happening where you live. use the data to better frame future community and
housing policy and the delivery of improved
Sign up to get the Amp Survey here! services.
What is The Amp? The Amp will publish surveys several times a year
'The Amp' is a new engagement tool from on topics of interest to communities and relay the
Supporting Communities which will enable findings to the people, organisations, and agencies
residents all over Northern Ireland to contribute that can benefit from this kind of grassroots polling.
their thoughts on a range of housing and
community-related topics. ‘The Amp’ aims to As our database of Amp registrants grows, we will
amplify the voice of residents in order to influence be able to offer more detailed information about the
the decision-makers who can effect real change. opinions and concerns of people sorted by type of
tenure, council area, age, and other demographics.
5
The Consumer Council warns against 15 common COVID-19 scams
Scammers are, unfortunately, taking advantage of
consumers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Therefore, it is more important than ever to take extra
precautions. The Consumer Council has compiled a
list of 15 common COVID-19 scams to watch out for.
1. Pension scams – People are concerned about
the value of their pensions and scammers will try
and persuade you to switch your pension to a
better one. Be careful when receiving unsolicited
calls, texts, emails and online offers to review
your pension;
2. Free COVID-19 testing – Consumers are
receiving emails/texts/automated messages and
direct messages through social media about free
COVID-19 testing in an attempt to scare you.
Ignore and delete these messages; 11. Free payments from the government –
3. Tax rebate scams – Scammers pretending to be Scammers are pretending to be from the
HMRC are offering a tax rebate in light of current government offering free payments. Make sure
circumstances. HMRC will never contact you via that correspondence from official UK government
text message/social media/email offering a tax website addresses is official by ensuring the URL
rebate; ends with ‘gov.uk’;
4. DVLA refunds – With many people self-isolating, 12. Doorstep scams – Be wary of scammers calling
scammers are pretending to be from the DVLA at your door offering to go the shops, collecting
offering a refund for those that cannot use their prescriptions or withdraw cash on your behalf for
car during this time. Make sure that a sum of money. Scammers may also try and sell
correspondence from official UK government fake Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), anti-
website addresses is official by ensuring the URL bacterial products, cleaning products, deep
ends with ‘gov.uk’; cleaning services, fake miracle cures, vaccines or
5. Free supermarket vouchers – Consumers are COVID-19 testing kits;
receiving text alerts that supermarkets are 13. Website selling fake PPE – As with door step
offering free vouchers for those in need. Be scams, watch out for fake websites selling fake
cautious when receiving unsolicited text PPE, anti-bacterial products, cleaning products,
messages; deep cleaning services, fake miracles cures,
6. Fake competitions – Watch out for fake vaccines or COVID-19 testing kits;
competitions at this time. If you haven’t bought a 14. Charity scams – Scammers may attempt to trick
ticket, you can’t win it. You should never respond you into sending money for a fake charity, a sick
to these types of scams and never provide any loved one, or someone stranded abroad. Be sure
personal and financial information; to check the details of the charity before donating;
7. Investment scams – Scammers are tempting and
consumers to invest their money with an offer of 15. Fake fines for leaving your property –
high returns. If you were contacted out of the blue Consumers are now receiving fake text messages
then stop and think – is this too good to be true?; from scammers pretending to be from law
8. Free school dinner vouchers – Consumers are enforcement bodies informing them that they are
receiving text messages offering free school being issued with a fine for leaving the house
dinner vouchers. Do not follow any links or enter during the lockdown period.
any payment information. For information on free
school meals throughout COVID-19, click here; A downloadable publication listing these scams is
9. Travel scams – There are scammers contacting available on our website:
consumers pretending to be from travel agents, www.consumercouncil.org.uk.
tour operators, claims companies and insurance
companies offering to help you with your travel The Consumer Council has also created an online
concerns. If you receive an unsolicited email, text leaflet giving examples of COVID-19 scams, top tips
or phone call, then call/email the official contact and useful contacts, which is available on our
details of the company from their website and website: www.consumercouncil.org.uk.
double check that it is real;
10. Automated messages from your service Additional information on scams is available on the
providers – Watch out for automated messages nidirect website: www.nidirect.gov.uk/campaigns/
stating your subscription service or internet has scamwiseni.
been cancelled. Be sure to check directly with
your service provider if you have any doubts. Remember to report scams to Action Fraud on
However, do not use the number you were 0300 123 2040 or the PSNI on 101.
contacted from;
6
Special Focus
Why charity boards must not go AWOL during pandemic
Nick Garbutt writes.
Governance Specialist Eileen Mullan says she is They need oversight as well. Remember that trustees
alarmed to discover that some charity boards in are jointly and severally liable for good governance and
Northern Ireland have stopped functioning during the if something were to go badly wrong during this period
pandemic. Eileen, who runs Strictly Boardroom and neither Companies House nor the Charity Commission
Boardroom Apprentice said: “Covid-19 does not stop the are likely to be impressed by the argument that the
need for good governance. In fact it’s never been more board had not troubled to provide oversight during a
important at this time. Of course, we cannot meet in time of crisis.”
person but we can online, or by phone and we can and
should be using email to provide advice and direction.” She says she believes that some in the sector may be
She says that when the pandemic struck many misreading guidance issued by the Northern Ireland
organisations went into panic mode, standing down Charity Commission on meeting during the pandemic. It
planned board and committee meetings, some for states: “Where meetings are postponed, it is
months. recommended that a note is kept documenting the
reason why the meeting has been postponed, but the
Boards have to steer their organisations through a time Commission will be pragmatic and reasonable and will
of unprecedented difficulty. They need to safeguard not take any regulatory action where meetings are
staff, to help and advise them, to discharge their duty of postponed as a result of these circumstances. Where a
care, to make the big strategic calls both for the meeting is held virtually to safeguard the health of
lockdown period and for the future. It was almost as if trustees, this should be recorded in the minutes and the
boards decided to take a pandemic break. This is not Commission will accept this as a valid meeting, as long
right, it’s not fair and it’s a failure of governance. Some as it is quorate.”
of us may be entitled to a three-month mortgage break,
but we’re not entitled to take three months off from being She says: “That’s signalling the Commission’s
a trustee. understanding of the difficulties of holding face-to-face
meetings, it is not an indication that charities can
The boards I sit on are meeting regularly, but I am abandon good governance during the pandemic.”
aware of several which are not. I do not have overall Virtual meetings are surprisingly easy to operate and
numbers so can’t comment on the scale of the problem, I’ve found them more efficient than face-to-face ones.
but no boards should be standing down at this time, not They tend to be shorter and more focused. And where
least because chief executives are then forced to take people are unable to access them, holding meetings by
decisions which are beyond their delegated remit” phone is a perfectly viable alternative”
She lists some of the crucial decisions that boards will or ICSA, the chartered governance institute has produced
may have to take which should not be taken by a comprehensive guide on how to run a virtual board
management acting on its own: meeting. It includes advice on how to include guests to
• Reviewing your objects to see if you can help with do presentations for parts of the meeting.
the coronavirus efforts
• Furloughing staff and/or supporting staff working She added that in some cases the Chair and CEO may
remotelySeeking financial support (ensuring you be making decisions in the absence of the full Board:
are solvent) “This is ok if the Board have set the parameters and
• Prioritising services given delegation, Its not ok, if it happens without the
Board input or knowledge and becomes the norm.”
• Re-purposing facilities
Eileen advises any trustee who is on a board which is
• Ceasing some elements of what you do not currently active to speak out and demand that
temporarily meetings resume online. These are critical times, boards
• Ensuring safeguarding for volunteers and staff need to provide oversight and leadership during them.
• Postponing AGMs We also need to be looking ahead, planning for the
future, a function which staff cannot be expected to
She says such big calls are for the chief executive to achieve when in survival mode. We need to provide
propose to the board not to make her or himself. For the good governance so that they can concentrate on
board not to be having oversight is a failure of delivering services.
governance and that those boards who are not currently
active risk sleep-walking into insolvency, given the I fully understand that everyone, including trustees, is
financial challenges some organisations face. going through a difficult and stressful time at the
moment. However when you signed up to join a board
“We need to be there for staff at this time. We need to you did so to offer your insights and expertise to a cause
show leadership and support and to give advice. Many to which you were committed. This duty extends to the
chief executives are having to adjust to working from good times and the bad.
home remotely from their staff, a new experience and
challenge. Many are under great stress, even frightened. COVID-19 has not stopped the need for good
They need support and a safe space to discuss the governance, what it has done has forced us all to think
challenges they face. and work differently – this is not such a bad thing.”
7
Digital Inclusion Help:
Get Connected, Stay Connected
Do you or anyone you know need help with digital skills such as shopping online,
email, or keeping in touch with friends and family during this uncertain time?
Some basic digital skills support could be a lifeline for many who are isolated.
You can find our digital inclusion resources here:
https://supportingcommunities.org/digital-inclusion-resources
We also recommend NI Direct’s Go ON NI (www.nidirect.gov.uk/go-on-ni) for information,
e-learning and training guides on many topics covering how to stay safe online, shopping and
staying in touch through Social Media.
Training guides are available here:
https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/learn-keep-touch-online-improve-digital-skills
Our Digital Inclusion Officer, Martin Quinn, is also available for help by phone. If someone in your area needs
someone to talk them through the basics of getting connected and using online communication tools, ask your CDO
to refer them to Martin.
Book Free Zoom Sessions for
your Group's Online Activities
through the Eden Project
The Eden Project recognises
that many smaller community
groups may struggle to To book a session, follow this link: https://
purchase access to online calendly.com/epcmidlands/zoom-session-2-hours
platforms and tools that
enable them to move their If you need some help or ideas on how to use zoom
activities online. That’s why to move your community activity online check out our
they have opened a 'virtual resources from our recent zoom call on this topic
village hall' on Zoom. here: https://drive.google.com/drive/
folders/1MpgjYymh47NJU3vOGLovRlmRAYtmz9al
You can book one-off or regular Zoom slots to run
your community activity online – you can invite up to
100 people to each session and their pro-account If you have any questions or comments on how to use
offers some nice features like break-out rooms and our virtual village hall please email Diana at
polls to keep sessions interactive. dvogtel@edenproject.com.
NI ASSEMBLY UPDATE
Assembly Round-up
Assembly Round up shares news, photos, and resources with you about what’s happening at
the Northern Ireland Assembly and how you can get involved.You can go directly to the
Assembly Round-up page at; https://blog.niassembly.gov.uk/
Assembly Business
The most recent plenary session of the Assembly paid its respects to respects to the late Mr John Dallat, Member
for East Londonderry who passed away recently; members considered the proposed introduction of legislation
covering the use of electric bicycles and the Ministerial Statement on the Coronavirus Restrictions.
The report of the plenary sessions of the Assembly are available at;
http://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/officialreport.aspx
Committee for Communities
The minutes of meetings of the Communities Committee are available at; http://www.niassembly.gov.uk/assembly-
business/committees/2017-2022/communities/minutes-of-proceedings/session-2019---2020/
8
Publications
Information Resources Related to Covid-19
Volunteer Now has published some information sheets for more guidance when involving volunteers and
volunteering during the Coronavirus crisis.
• Good Practice Considerations for Groups Involving Volunteers in Response to Covid-19
• Good Practice Guidelines for Volunteers When Volunteering for a Covid-19 Opportunity
• Guidance on Volunteering When on Furlough (COVID-19)
• Guidelines for Providing Volunteers’ Out of Pocket Expenses
• Informal Volunteering in Response to Covid-19 – Keeping Yourself and Others Safe
• Keeping Children and Adults Safe Factsheet (COVID-19)
• Keeping Children and Young People Safe from Online Sexual Abuse (COVID-19)
• Safe Communication Online with Children and Young People Factsheet
• Sample Risk Assessment Template (COVID-19)
• Sample Volunteer Registration Template (COVID-19)
• Volunteer Role Description (COVID-19)
Catch up on what’s been happening at the Board in Policing Matters at the link below.
https://www.nipolicingboard.org.uk/publication/policing-matters-may-2020
The Irish Traveller Accommodation Survey 2018/19 report and tables were published
on the Housing Executive website and are available using the links below;
To view the report click here: Irish_Traveller_Accommodation_Survey_2018/19_Report
To view the tables click here: Irish_Traveller_Accommodation_Survey_2018/19_Report_and_Tables
NI Environment Link
The Environment News, Research and Analysis newsletter is available at;
https://www.nienvironmentlink.org/cmsfiles/ENRA-March-2020-1.pdf
and the Assembly News round-up at; https://www.nienvironmentlink.org/cmsfiles/
Assembly-News-March-2020.pdf
For other NIEL publications and events, go to; https://www.nienvironmentlink.org/
Rural Community Network
The latest edition of the Rural Brief and the Rural Policy Link is now available from the RCN.
To access the publication, go to; http://www.ruralcommunitynetwork.org/publications/default.aspx
RNIB Talking Newspaper
During these challenging times, information is vital. In response, RNIB is ramping up its
support and services to ensure blind and partially sighted people get the help they need.
RNIB is urging people, anyone in our communities who know of family members or
neighbours who may need such assistance to call the Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or
email helpline@rnib.org.uk.
For more information on the range of services go to; https://www.rnib.org.uk/rnibconnect
9
Publications cont’d
Available online, includes a series of important
articles on a range of matters including the
potentially far-reaching impacts of the current
coronavirus including the need for good
governance throughout the crisis
Please click the link below to access the February/March 2020
edition of inpartnership – the newsletter for PCSPs which Scope can be accessed at;
highlights local events and initiatives; https://www.pcsps.org/ http://scopeni.nicva.org/
publications/pcsp-inpartnership-februarymarch-2020
Events
*Free Webinar* Do You Want To Start Podcasting?
Here’s How! withTina Calder
Next date: Wednesday 20 May 2020 3.00pm This is a free event
Find out how to set up a basic podcast in just one day! This is a quick and easy session where delegates will
This slide/video-based webinar is presented by publicist, leave with everything they need to know, including all
journalist and commentator Tina Calder. As founder of the tools, to set up their podcast.
Excalibur Press publicity management, content creation
and copywriting agency Tina has been in the business In this webinar you will learn:
working in Northern Ireland for the last 20 years and has • What is podcasting and why is it popular?
worked with a number of thought leaders over the years. • Why Podcasting can be an effective tool for your
business
tina@excaliburpress.co.uk 07305354209 • How to record your podcast
More Information https://bit.ly/2LcCGNH
• What equipment you might need, if any
In this session delegates will learn just why podcasting • How to distribute your podcast
can be an effective publicity tool for their business. They • What content should your podcast contain
will see just how easy it can be to set up a podcast and • My top tips, tricks and tools and much more...
hear top tips on how to get it right.
Féile an Phobail have announced that this
August’s 32nd annual Féile will now take the form of a
‘Virtual’ Féile, due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic
and restrictions.
Féile Director Kevin Gamble said:
“Since our first Féile in 1988, we have always found a
way of putting on our annual August Féile, the biggest
community arts festival in Ireland. This August, due to
the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, Féile an Phobail have Féile is fully supportive of the public safety measures
taken the decision to make several important changes. currently in place, and of all front-line workers. We want
to give everyone a Féile to enjoy and be part of, while
Our August festival programme will go ahead in the form also ensuring we keep people safe.
of a ‘Virtual’ Féile where you can relax safe in the
comfort of your own home, and still enjoy what Féile 32 We will announce the details of our online August
has to offer. programme very shortly as well as details of what to
expect in March so you can start planning your Féile
The online programme will include a series of music calendar, and together we will make it memorable and
concerts, high profile debates and discussions, theatre, show the very best of what our community has to offer.
visual arts, workshops and community events for
everyone to get involved in. We want to thank all our partners, funders, sponsors and
stakeholders, and our local community for their
We are working with our funders and partners to ensure continued support and encouragement during this
we put on the best programme possible in the current unprecedented time.
climate. “Féile is an all year-round programme of
festivals and events, and as such we will also be moving “Fan sa bhaile agus bí sábháilte.”
some of our key events to our annual Féile an Earraigh
programme next March, with the aim of putting on a Stay home and stay safe.
number of major shows.
10Training
Volunteer Now Training Courses
All Training Postponed If you are interested in volunteering please visit our
Due to the current circumstances all training website: www.volunteernow.co.uk where you can
programmed for May 2020 has been postponed. We register directly for an opportunity related to COVID-19
are looking into different ways of bringing our training to by clicking the pop-up campaign box.
you so monitor our website and social media channels in
the coming weeks. As volunteering roles become available you will have the
opportunity to become involved. For organisations too
FREE Online Course: See Something, Say they can register their opportunities on the platform
Something is a key course for volunteers taking part in highlighting that it is supporting those impacted by the
our #HelpEachOther campaign and is also suitable for virus. Roles may include telephone befriending,
the general public who may have concerns about their undertaking light shopping, walking the dog, packing
family, friends or neighbours. food hampers and so forth.
Click here to find out more and to register. Volunteering in a safe environment is crucial for all
involved and Volunteer Now has developed good
Support the Challenge: #HelpEachOther practice guidance which is available for those
In these uncertain and challenging times Volunteer Now volunteering, those including volunteers within their
has launched a new online campaign organisations and also those providing neighbourhood
#HelpEachOther to support those who wish to volunteer support.
for COVID-19 related opportunities and also for those
Check out our website for further information: https://
organisations which require the support of volunteers to
www.volunteernow.co.uk/volunteering/helpeachother/
deliver their services to those who need it most.
Housing Rights Training Courses
Training & Events
In light of government guidance in response to Covid-19, Housing Rights is no longer operating a face to face
training schedule.
The following courses are available online:
• The Essentials: The Four Homelessness Tests
• Webinar: Covid 19: Implications for the Private Rented Sector
Housing Rights has been providing the highest quality training to the public and private sectors in Northern Ireland
for over 20 years. At Housing Rights we’re committed to offering cost effective, quality training and opportunities for
professional development. For more information and to keep up to date on Housing Rights activities, go to;
https://www.housingrights.org.uk/training-events
Advice NI Training Courses
Advice NI has brought all of their training online and will continue to devise new ways
to deliver training to learners and create new online training to help you develop your skills,
knowledge and abilities in changing times.
At the moment Advice NI is using the Zoom Online Learning Platform to deliver Live Online courses; they have also
developed their Anytime Online courses to allow you to complete your training at a time that works for you. To
support their members and the wider community during the COVID-19 crisis, all of the Anytime Online courses are
now free to anyone until the end of June.
Visit the website here to view all of the courses and to book online. Just fill in the registration form on the course
website and you will be sent an email with instructions on how to access your course. At the same time, the
Bespoke Training service is still available; training can be tailored to your organisation's specific needs, even during
the current crisis.
For more information email training@adviceni.net.
11Funding
Coronavirus Community Fund SAFEGUARDING:
“Safeguarding of children
Who can apply:
and adults at risk from harm
Constituted organisations based in Northern Ireland.
and exploitation is of
We want to support community groups working
paramount importance in the midst of COVID-19.
together; particularly in smaller geographical
Good practice indicates that organisations working
communities. We will therefore encourage a
with adults at risk should have a written policy
partnership approach, and one application from one
supported by robust procedures and guidelines. CFNI
lead organisation, rather than a number of separate
recognise that applicants are wanting to make a fast
applications.
and effective response to the issues caused by
COVID-19 and therefore may not have full policy and
Criteria:
procedures in place as yet. As a temporary measure
The fund will be open to constituted community
to help you submit your application and get helping
organisations throughout Northern Ireland. The
quickly, we ask that you submit a signed policy
current focus is to support groups and organisations
statement (sample here KAS Adult Safeguarding
working with the following communities and issues
Policy Statement) showing your intention to keep
and that are affected by coronavirus
adults and children safe in the activities that you are
• Older people (aged over 50) proposing.
• Those at increased risk, particularly in relation
to poor mental health and wellbeing We strongly recommend that you develop full policy
• Vulnerable isolated people and families, and procedures for adult and child safeguarding as
particularly those living in rural areas, families soon as possible. For full guidance around Keeping
where a parent/ both parents have lost their Adults Safe and a checklist for developing a policy
employment or where children are living in see https://www.volunteernow.co.uk/app/
poverty uploads/2019/04/Keeping-Adults-Safe-A-Shared-
• Children and young people’s projects, Responsibility.pdf “
particularly focusing on the voice of young
people and connecting through creative We also request a signed copy of the guidelines
mediums that you will issue to volunteers to show that they
• Black, asian and ethnic minority communities have been informed of good practice around how
they will conduct themselves including how they will
What can be supported within the fund themes? report concerns. In order to ensure that you are
With grant sizes of between £1,000 to £10,000, it is following best practice we ask that you give thought
the expectation that this funding will support to how you will recruit and manage your
organisations to continue to provide services over the volunteers, and also consider carrying out a risk
next twelve months enabling both short and longer assessment. Some simple guidance can be found
term impact. at https://www.volunteernow.co.uk/information-
resources-related-to-covid-19/
*We anticipate those organisations who are
providing small scale emergency support will Applying for The Coronavirus Community Fund
require funding of around £1,000 to £2,500. The Fund is open from 9am 16th March 2020 and will
Those supporting need on a longer term basis, remain open on a rolling call basis. We do,
and/or who are significantly enhancing their however, expect a high level of interest in this
services at this time, may require grants of up to fund. Depending on current funding available,
£10,000.” and any future funds raised, we therefore may
decide to close for applications within a relatively
The Foundation will prioritise: short space of time, if we do not have enough
• Initiatives that directly support those most at funds to meet the demand for support.
risk as a result of the threat of coronavirus, and
clearly evidence the need for support It is recommended that you read our Grant
• Organisations with income levels of below £1 FAQs before starting your grant application.
million per annum Should you have any further questions around
• Running costs for organisations to provide something that is perhaps not available on our
such support, including volunteer expenses, website please contact the Grants Team by email of
staff costs, and transport; providing the applications@communityfoundationni.org or call on
organisation is focusing their attention on 028 9024 5927. Please note that due to the high
providing support to both existing, and any number of enquiries we may not be able to respond
potential new beneficiaries to queries immediately.
• Small capital costs are eligible, providing the
capital item will address the priorities of the To apply please visit
fund, and is linked to keeping the older person https://communityfoundationni.org/grants/coronavirus
connected to the outside world -community-fund/
12Comic Relief: No Child Goes Hungry –
Community Support Programme
Applications must be made by Constituted Community/
Voluntary Organisation – Please note that, if any of the Priorities Include:
group’s objectives includes advancement of religion, Priority will be given to small, locally
then the group is not eligible for a grant award and based and local run groups or organisations in areas of
should not apply. disadvantage that have a clear understanding of the
needs of their community and are undertaking actions
Who Can Apply? as a means of addressing these needs.
You must be a locally led and based organisation. This
means you are based within the area you are carrying Depending on the quality and volume of applications
out activities and have local people involved in the received priority will be given to:
running of the organisation. As such we accept • Those that are new to Comic Relief and/or
applications from the voluntary and community sector Community Foundation funding
including: • Those in geographically underfunded areas
• constituted voluntary and community groups • Those with lived experience, where people
• Charities directly affected by the issues are involved in all.
• social enterprises
• co-operatives For more information and to apply please visit https://
• community interest companiesorganisations with communityfoundationni.org/grants/comic-relief-no-child-
income levels of £250,000 or below goes-hungry-community-support-programme/
The National Lottery Fund
The National Lottery Community Fund is the largest
community funder in the UK. Each year we distribute
millions of pounds of The National Lottery’s good
causes money to community groups and charitable
projects around the country. People and Communities
£10,000–£500,000
COVID-19
• Project ideas should come from the community.
While our main funding programmes remain open, our
Talk to the people you want to help and get them
immediate priority is to keep money flowing to support
involved in shaping and planning the project.
people, communities and organisations affected by the
COVID-19 crisis. We’re keeping our commitments to • Your project should make good use of the skills,
existing grant holders and funding new projects knowledge, resources and energy of people
supporting communities who are adapting to the within your community; making it stronger and
increasing challenges of COVID-19. ready for the future.
• Understand the need for your project and how it
For the next six months, we will be prioritising fits with the work of other organisations. Build
applications from: relationships and work together on shared goals.
1. Organisations supporting people who are at high • Applications welcome from constituted voluntary
risk from COVID-19 or community organisations, and social
2. Organisations supporting communities most likely enterprises.
to face increased demand and challenges as a • This funding is for projects that will run for
direct result of COVID-19 between 1 and 5 years.
3. Organisations with high potential to support Find out more
communities with the direct and indirect impact of
COVID-19 Empowering Young People
£10,000–£500,000
What funding is available? • This funding is for projects that work with young
National Lottery Awards for All Northern Ireland people (8 – 25 years old), and which will run for
£300–£10,000 between 1 and 5 years.
• Projects bringing local people together to make • Projects will help young people to: have the skills
positive changes in their community. they need for the future; have better relationships
• No deadline, so groups can apply any time. with their support networks and communities;
• Applying is quick and simple. and/or have improved health and wellbeing.
• Applications welcome from constituted voluntary or • Young people must be involved in the planning
community organisations, schools, and statutory and delivery of the project. They must be able to
bodies. develop the skills to help themselves, and their
• If we funded you within the last two years, we may support networks and communities need to be
have to give priority to other groups that have not involved too.
recently been funded through this programme. • Applications welcome from constituted voluntary
• This funding is for projects that will run for 12 months or community organisations, and social
or less enterprises.
Find out more Find out more
13Halifax Foundation: New funding
criteria due to Covid-19
We are trying to help as many charities as possible
during this difficult time so we are streamlining our
grants to make it easier for them to access aid quickly
and to ensure that we reach as many organisations This is to ensure that charities can help as many people
supporting communities in distress as possible. as possible affected by this pandemic.
At the Halifax Foundation for Northern Ireland, we will
Rather than two different grant levels, we are now continue to do all we can to stand with the Sector during
offering funding of up to £5,000 to charities providing the COVID-19 crisis.
vital services to vulnerable individuals and groups
across Northern Ireland. To apply, go to www.halifaxfoundationni.org
The McCall Social Care Fund offers grants up to
£10,000 supporting social care in the Antrim area
Who can apply
• Registered charities
• Constituted community organisations, and CICs,
within Northern Ireland, who are working to • Home-based nursing provision and social care.
support social care in the County Antrim area • Bespoke services for patients, carers and loved
only ones, through terminal illness.
• Any project that supports enhancement in skills or
Criteria knowledge within the applicant organisation,
Applications are invited from community and voluntary innovation, increasing reach, scaling up or across,
sector organisations who are supporting social care building collaborations to deliver efficiency,
needs in Northern Ireland during the COVID 19 threat. strengthening your structures and processes, or
The threat of COVID 19, and the further isolation of strengthening your organisation’s reputation or
older people, is likely to continue to remain for at least connections – but, importantly, in a planned and
four to six months. strategic fashion that may deliver sustainable
change in social care.
Funding will be focused on those organisations who can
adapt and have been innovative, to enable them to Applying to the McCall Social Care Fund
support those most in need at this time. The applications will be invited through an online
What can be supported within the fund themes? application on the Community Foundation’s
There will be five grants offered of £10,000 to five website www.communityfoundationni.org and will follow
different organisations. two stages:
Examples of potential projects that we may be able Stage One: Initial online application via the Community
to support include: Foundation’s website by 1:00 pm on 1st June
• Initiatives, such as enhanced befriending. The 2020. This MUST include an organisation strength
funding will prioritise those groups who are checker – https://vcsestrengthchecker.org.uk/. This
thinking about how they can befriend in an must be attached to your application and must help
innovative way, and in line with guidance around shape the nature of what you are requesting financial
social distancing and isolation. The support also assistance for.
must include encouragement to become as
independent as possible, if appropriate, and Stage Two: Shortlisted applications will be invited to
directing the beneficiary to further support if present their project to the McCall Foundation panel
needed. representatives, and other sector leaders, late June,
• Pilot projects linked to addressing social care, in early July 2020. This will consist of a ten-minute
particular geographical communities where presentation, followed by approximately ten minutes of
existing provision may be limited or non-existent. discussion and questions from the fund panel
• Training to better coordinate services working in representatives.
social care, or for organisations to build their
capacity to coordinate, and become more Please note that depending on government restrictions
strategic. and social distancing guidelines, this presentation may
• System updates and organisational capacity require to be done remotely using an online platform.
support for those organisations providing social
care, to better accept referrals, either by calls, or To apply please visit https://communityfoundationni.org/
online, enabling better coordination of volunteer grants/the-mccall-social-care-fund/
support, as well as to relevant services that might
help.
14You can also read
