Weekly update - 19 March 2012
This week’s update looks at the Council’s funding for voluntary and community organisations and how you can volunteer in the borough.
Each year the Council provides funding for local voluntary and community organisations to help them to maintain the vital services that benefit our residents.
Continued financial support
Despite the current economic climate we have maintained the level of funding we give to the voluntary sector. In 2012/13 we allocated £380,000 in core funding to 16 voluntary organisations, including three more than last year:
- East Surrey Domestic Abuse Service
- Live at Home Scheme
- Surrey Young Witness Service.
On top of this, £14,500 was given to support capital projects and a further £25,500 has been set aside for Councillors’ Community Awards.
We also provide support by awarding discretionary rate relief and through subsidising rents for voluntary groups in Council owned properties.
Key priority
Chief Executive, John Jory, said: “The Council will continue to do all that it can to support the voluntary and community sector and has included specific priorities within its Corporate Plan 2011-15 to assist and work more effectively with them. The services they provide are essential and help people in every area of the borough.”
Forums
The support we give to Reigate & Banstead Voluntary Service enables them to champion local voluntary action and add strength to local charities, voluntary organisations and community groups in the borough. The regular Voluntary Community Sector Forums they hold throughout the year provide the sector with an opportunity to meet and discuss current issues and voice their opinions.
Peer to peer support groups
In the last year we have also funded and supported the creation of a voluntary sector peer to peer action learning group, bringing key players together to learn from each other’s experiences and address the issues that affect them.
Mayor’s role
The Mayor of Reigate & Banstead also plays a big part in helping the voluntary sector, through visiting many events, attending meetings, helping to fundraise for charities and raise their profile locally. There is also an annual Mayor’s Volunteer Awards.
Find out more on the Mayor’s page.
Generosity of volunteers
Councillor Ros Mill, Executive Member for Strong Communities, said: “The generosity of every single individual who gives up their time to volunteer helps to strengthen the communities where we live. It is all too easy to take the contribution they make for granted.
“The commitment volunteers make is integral to the ongoing survival of the sector during these difficult times and it is important for us to support them.”
Visit our Volunteering page to find out how you can get involved and make a difference.
Last updated : 15/03/2012
