Volunteering England has just published an 'Impact Report' which highlights the work of VE over the past 12 months and provides an outline of its key objectives for the next 3 years. Dr Justin Davis Smith Chief Executive, Volunteering England states: "The last 12 months has been a period of significant development and achievement for volunteering and Volunteering England.

‘Believing in Local Action’, a report commissioned by the Department for Communities and Local Government, shows through seven case studies what can be achieved through faith organisations and local infrastructure organisations (such as councils for voluntary service) working together. It also gives seven actions to help develop more successful partnership working.

This research draws on original material gathered from six UK sites with different experiences of migration and post-industrial transformations, and comprising different populations of long-term residents and new immigrants. Between them, they illustrate various contexts of social cohesion in England, Northern Ireland and Scotland.

A volunteering strategy for health and social care will articulate the key actions needed to address the perceived obstacles to making a refreshed vision for volunteering in health and social care a reality.   The consultation will run until 30 September 2008, with a view to publication of a final strategy and implementation plan in early 2009.  

Published

Supporting voluntary and community groups can be hard work. Tried and tested practical tools can help. In addition, SKiLD provide a number of online tools available through their website. SKiLD tools for development workers is a new set of bite-sized exercises to support work with groups.

‘Third-Party Nonviolent Intervention - Curriculum and Trainer’s Manual’, from Training For Change.