NCVA has released its Annual Report, following its approval at the Annual General Meeting held on November 27, 2024, at Newbiggin Maritime Centre.
During the report year, NCVA continued its impactful work, supporting voluntary and community groups throughout Northumberland. Highlights include:
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- Our Solid Foundation Key Workers had 297 referrals with 100% activation. 155 were registered onto the programme and received on average six months of support.
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- Payroll Services had 7 clients for a total of 84 hours.
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- Gaggle Mail members increased from 188 to 257.
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- We created 365 social media posts, with 77,000 users reached, up 18.4% this year.
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- Network members increased from 40 to 255.
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- Northumberland 50+ had 113 participants with 1861 engagement hours, with some of our projects including Tea and IT and Smartphone Photography.
Joe Jackson, Chair, and Caroline Rogan, CEO, wrote:
“The past year has been both challenging and transformative for Northumberland CVA and the voluntary, community, and social enterprise (VCSE) sector we support.
We honour the legacy of our late Chair, Rodney James, who passed away during this reporting period. Rodney’s leadership, vision, and unwavering dedication to the VCSE sector were instrumental in NCVA’s growth and success. We are deeply grateful for his years of service, and his absence is felt by all who had the privilege of working with him. As we remember Rodney’s many contributions, we are committed to carrying forward his vision for a thriving VCSE sector in Northumberland.
Reflecting on our collective achievements, we also acknowledge the ongoing pressures shaping our work, and the resilience of our sector in continuing to overcome these challenges.
The Autumn Budget 2024 has brought a mix of opportunities and challenges for our communities. Increased investments in public services, such as the £1 billion Household Support Fund and commitments to social care and homelessness, provide vital relief. However, these measures are counterbalanced by reduced allocations for the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and growing administrative complexities that strain organisations already navigating the pressures of rising operational costs and reduced donations amid the cost-of-living crisis. Despite these hurdles, the VCSE sector in Northumberland has demonstrated remarkable adaptability and innovation, ensuring support for residents in need.
At NCVA, our staff and volunteers have continued to collaborate tirelessly, ensuring our communities are safer and more resilient. Whether helping organisations access UKSPF funding, delivering holistic, person-centred projects like Solid Foundations, or leveraging partnerships to amplify the impact of the £1.5 million NIECP fund, our commitment to supporting both individuals and groups has never wavered. From addressing barriers to employment to promoting community-led initiatives, our team’s dedication ensures that residents of Northumberland can access vital services and thrive in challenging times.
As we look ahead, NCVA remains steadfast in its mission to advocate for fair policies, champion sustainable funding, and empower communities. By continuing to foster collaboration and prioritise resilience, we aim to build a future where every resident has the opportunity to contribute to and benefit from a thriving, equitable society. We thank our members, partners, and supporters for their shared commitment to this vision and invite them to join us in shaping stronger, more connected communities.”
The NCVA Annual Report can be downloaded here.