Archive for month: October, 2023

Over 45 smaller voluntary sector organisations across West Northamptonshire came together at the first Roundtable on the Power of Small, held at St Crispin’s Community Centre on the 19^{th of} October 2023. You can view the charter here.

The Power of Small was delivered in partnership between Voluntary Impact Northamptonshire and Community Spaces Northampton, with support from both Daventry Volunteers and South Northants Volunteer Bureau, making this a truly cross cutting sector event.

Many thanks to our guest speakers (Rachel Bott of the Dodderidge Centre and Rachel Mallows MBE) and to all those organisations that attended, listened, and took part.

What is the Power of Small?

It’s a known fact that 94% of the Voluntary and Community Sector across West Northamptonshire (some 1600 groups or organisations) are classed as small or even micro. By default, only 6% are seen as moderately large or large, yet it is this 6% which exerts most influence and finds itself at the right negotiating table. Infrastructure is about levelling the playing field for the sector so important and crucial grass roots organisations can support their communities, co-produce services and apply for funding. We all know that if these small organisations did not exist or supply their services our communities would suffer. So, in this sense Small is Powerful but it is lacking a voice and influence. The Power of Small is therefore a new movement for smaller or micro-organisations: A place to network, learn, work in partnership and influence Commissioners and Policy Makers. Make no mistake, without smaller organisations our Voluntary Sector would crumble, and crucial services would be lost.

How can Infrastructure Organisations help?

The three Infrastructure Organisations (Voluntary Impact Northamptonshire, South Northants Volunteer Bureau, and Daventry Volunteers) are targeting small or micro-organisations in an attempt to help them most.

The first Roundtable looked at the challenges and opportunities facing small and micro – organisations, and what training and mentoring they need most to play an active role at the negotiating table. The notes from these breakout sessions can be viewed here 

The Presentation from Rachel Bott can be viewed here

The Presentation from Rachel Mallows can be viewed here 

This evidence will be used in discussions with West Northamptonshire Council in deciding what should be included in a truly collegiate West Northamptonshire Infrastructure Bid in 2024/2025.

What does your organisation need to do?

If you want to join the Micro Voices movement for West Northamptonshire then contact the following people.

Contact Voluntary Impact Northamptonshire at russell.rolph@voluntaryimpact.org.uk if your organisation works or invests in Northampton.

Contact Daventry Volunteers at carella@daventryvolunteers.org.uk if your organisation works or invests in Daventry.

Contact South Northants Volunteer Bureau at helen.barrett@snvb.org.uk if your organisation works or invests in Towcester or Brackley.

When you join (which costs nothing) you can use the Micro Voices Logo by emailing sophie.negus@voluntaryimpact.org.uk

Encourage other smaller or micro-organisations to contact Russell, Carella or Helen. We will be forming a collective charter with your name and organisation – In this way you can truly feel part of a wider movement of support and advocacy.

Attend the training that’s offered – its based upon the needs and aspirations of smaller organisations.

Use this release on your website and social media to affirm your organisation as part of the movement – it can be viewed here

Watch out for updates on the Power of Small in Voluntary Impacts Friday Bulletin, or newsletters sent by Daventry Volunteers and South Northants Volunteer Bureau. Contact Russell, Carella or Helen (depending on what are you work in) if you wish to join our mailing lists.

And above all stay connected – it’s important. From humble beginnings, we can grow Micro Voices into a wider movement and programme for West Northamptonshire.

My name’s Millie Fuller. I’m the contributing author of this article on behalf of Voluntary Impact Northamptonshire. My connection to community transport is personal. I’ve witnessed first-hand the impact it can have on the lives of people and their families. This includes my late grandmother. When my nan’s Alzheimer’s had advanced to a point where she couldn’t travel alone and using public transport was a safety concern, we discovered the invaluable service that is community transport.

What is community transport? 

This service is usually provided by a non-profit organisation. It offers a way of getting around for those who can’t access public transport easily. From supermarket trips to medical appointments, it’s a lifeline for older adults and those who have disabilities.

Over 1.4 million people in England aged 65 and over find it difficult just getting to their local hospital. But Voluntary Impact Northamptonshire understand the importance of accessing community health and social care facilities. 

They began their door-to-door transport services in Northampton in 1997. With their easy-access vehicles, they’re able to help people with varying levels of mobility.

Community transport enhances social connections.

It’s so much more than getting from point A to B. The journey is often shared with others, so it’s an opportunity to meet new people and have a chat.

My grandmother, despite her illness, loved to talk to anyone who’d listen. I remember how she’d sit in her wheelchair and wave at anyone who made eye contact! The friendships she formed during her journeys, however brief, brightened her day and brought a smile to her face (and everyone around her). 

It’s a cost-effective option.

For individuals with mobility issues, using public transport may not be an option. Community transport services are an accessible alternative that give people their independence back.

This service isn’t just a practical and convenient mode of transport, it’s also cost-effective. The price of the service was a tremendous relief for our family. Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s can be surprisingly expensive. So, it made a big difference and meant that we could pay for more things for her, like a chiropodist.

Voluntary Impact Northamptonshire’s Demand Responsive Service is free for non-assisted travel and the full door-to-door membership is just an annual cost of £35.00.

Accessibility.

For individuals with mobility issues, using public transport may not be an option. Community transport services are an accessible alternative that gives people their independence back.

But it wasn’t just about convenience or the practicality for us. The compassion of the drivers truly touched our hearts. My grandmother would often forget where she was going, but the drivers were patient and understanding. It didn’t faze them at all.

The service can accommodate both wheelchairs and scooters. They also offer weekly trips to most major supermarkets, transport to appointments, and day care.

Reduced environmental impact.

Unlike private vehicles, those used for community transport cover larger areas more efficiently. They must adhere to strict emissions standards, which ensure they’re environmentally friendly.

Improves access to services.

Local amenities are important for everyone. But access can prove more difficult for older adults and those with disabilities. Community transport provides a safe way of reaching these places.

Knowing this is an option gives a sense of independence and choice, leading to better physical and mental wellbeing.

Knowing that we had the support transporting my grandmother gave us peace of mind. There was no longer any need for us (and her) to get stressed navigating public transport.

Summary:

Community transport is invaluable for individuals who don’t have access to public transport. It’s also an opportunity to socialise with others outside of their usual space. Being affordable, it alleviates the financial constraints that come with having to get taxis. It’s also more environmentally friendly and reduces traffic congestion.

To find out more about our community transport service in Northampton, click here, call 01604 583553 or email ndds@voluntaryimpact.org.uk.