Chester’s oldest charity, The Chester Bluecoat Charity, was delighted to be able to offer strategic funding to Cheshire West Voluntary Action (CWVA) in order to enable them to offer a full programme of training to those working in the voluntary sector in and around Chester. The grant given allows the training to be free, therefore removing financial barriers for community groups and charities that would otherwise restrict their development and enhances their sustainability and organisational growth.
The training topics were decided after research was conducted by CWVA into what areas of support were needed, with the research showing that the voluntary and community sector does not have a sufficient training budget to access essential courses. Training topics will include successful bid writing, safeguarding, first aid, equality & diversity and volunteer & staff wellbeing support.
It is expected that the training will develop the voluntary and community sector’s efficiency, impact and sustainability. CWVA’s ambition is to reach as many staff and volunteers as possible and the grant will encourage this. By using local trainers and hiring venues in Chester, the local economy will also be supported.
CWVA has been supporting the local community since 1914 by working with charities, social enterprises, community groups, voluntary organisations and faith groups across west Cheshire. Their staff have extensive knowledge and skills to help local voluntary and community groups thrive by helping with areas such as governance, good practice, volunteering, funding, training and networking.
Pictured: First Aid training sessions on 12th January, 2023
