From April 2013 local Healthwatch replaced the Local Involvement Networks (LINks) as the "consumer voice" in health and social care. It is important that local Healthwatch learns from the experience of the LINks to ensure they become the best they can be, and to prevent "reinventing the wheel". The results of a project to capture this learning are now available
Voluntary Sector North West
St. Thomas Centre
16 August 2012
Nearly £2m is available to be given out in the North West over the next two years as ESF Community Learning Grants. The grants are for up to £12,000 to help people access further learning or training that could lead to employment.
The funding can be applied for by small community and voluntary groups, registered charities and social enterprises. Preference will be given to organisations with a turnover of no more than £300,000 per year in each of the last 2 years.
The grants can support a range of activities including:
The programme is aimed at all people out of work but with a particular priority for:
This programme is being managed by the Workers' Educational Association. For more information, you can visit their website. The deadline for applications for this round is 12 noon on Thursday 13th September.
Regional Voices, of which VSNW is a partner, is pleased to announce that it has been awarded funding from the Department of Health (Innovation, Excellence and Strategic Development Fund) to support voluntary and community sector influence on health and wellbeing boards
The Department for Business Innovation & Skills has published the findings of a research study on European Social Fund delivery with the aim of informing thinking around the next round of programmes
Healthwatch England was formed in April 2013 and is the independent consumer champion for health and social care in England. They have now published a list of local Healthwatch, including those for the North West
The Local Government Chronicle held a webinar to explore the essential elements to ensure local healthwatch organisations are effective in scrutinising local health services and provide a voice for communities. Regional Voices, of which VSNW are a part, are mentioned.
An analysis has been published by NAVCA of the 74 areas that received Transforming Local Infrastructure and provides a national perspective, and allows the sharing of information and ideas
