The Big Lottery Fund (BLF) has unveiled its new funding strategy for the next six years

Following on from the Big Thinking consultation in the Autumn of 2008, which asked stakeholders and the general public how they thought the Big Lottery budget should be spent, the BLF has announced its new funding strategy. The strategy includes an extra £45 million to help charities hard-hit by the recession and a pledge to give at least 80% of its money to voluntary and community organisations. The £45 million recession package will be distributed this financial year and will include cash injections for existing funding programmes such as the Reaching Communities scheme, Basis and Awards for All. In addition to extra money being made available, the BLF have also outlined new priorities and directions for their grant-making, with projects that reduce isolation and promote community cohesion and front-line services now at the very top of their agenda. Voluntary sector leaders have given the new funding strategy a mixed reception. Ralph Michell, head of policy at Acevo, welcomed the changes and the extra money claiming, “The sector is going through a difficult time and needs all the help it can get”. Navca’s Kevin Curley and NCVO’s Stuart Etherington, however, were less impressed and urged the BLF to increase its grant-making to voluntary organisations to 100%, citing the current economic climate, which has led to the slashing of available local authority grants and the creation of a difficult environment in which to fundraise, as a key motivation for such action. Source: Big Lottery Fund 25/06/09 posted 01.07.09

MLA to complete integration with creation of London team

The Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA) has announced that, following agreement with the Mayor of London's Office, it will complete its national transformation with the creation of a regional team for London to be operational from April 2010. Trustees of MLA London have agreed to support the changes and move to wind-up the last remaining regional MLA agency. The changes will enable MLA staff supporting the sector in London to focus on core functions of driving improvement, providing advice and brokerage, advocating on behalf of the sector and its users, and levering in additional funding, while enabling MLA to reduce further its overhead costs. The changes have been agreed following an independent review of MLA's investment in the capital, which recognised the Mayor of London's statutory responsibility for culture and his power to appoint the chair of MLA London. The review also recognised the successes of MLA London and its staff in developing the London Cultural Improvement Programme in partnership with the other cultural agencies, the London boroughs, Government Office for London, and Capital Ambition, as well as other innovative programmes on adult skills and economic impact, and its ability to draw in funding for the sector from key stakeholders including the London Development Agency. The new structure also proposes a London sub-group of MLA's Board to focus on the delivery of priorities for the Capital. Following its reorganisation last year, the MLA is already operating across the country in three other area teams covering the North, West and East, each headed by a Director of Engagement, supported by a Regional Manager and a small team of Area Engagement Advisors. For more information visit http://www.mla.gov.uk/news_and_views/press/releases/2009/MLA_London

New website launched as the UK gears up for the Festival of British Archaeology

The Council for British Archaeology has launched a new Festival of British Archaeology website. The countdown has begun to this annual event, described by the CBA as an ‘extravaganza of heritage-related activities’, taking place between 18 July and 2 August. The 2008 Festival drew an estimated 260,000 visitors, prompting expectations that this year may see more than 300,000 turn out throughout the fortnight. The new website puts the public directly in touch with the archaeology happening in their area through a handy Google Maps facility. Users can enter their postcode and display the excavations, guided walks, re-enactments, demonstrations, lectures and more, and then download directions, times and any additional information. Those interested as either an organiser or a visitor can sign up to an eNewsletter and an RSS feed, keeping them in touch both in the run-up to the Festival, and afterwards as plans for take shape for 2010. Visit the new website here: www.archaeologyfestival.org.uk posted 26.06.09 This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

MLA £100,000 fund open for informal learning

Groups may apply for grants of up to £5,000 to use museum, library and archives spaces in innovative ways A new Challenge Fund to promote adult informal learning is now available to museums, libraries and archive venues in England. The Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA) is looking for partnership bids with self-organised groups of adult learners to support them in the use of our spaces and resources in new ways. The deadline for applications is noon on 17 July 2009. All applications to the MLA Informal Adult Learning Challenge Fund 2009-2010 must be made on the application form available on the MLA website www.mla.gov.uk Applicants must have demonstrated their commitment to the new informal adult learning movement announced in the Learning Revolution White Paper by signing the Learning Revolution pledge. To sign up to the pledge visit the Department for Business Innovation and Skills (BIS) website http://www.dius.gov.uk/skills/engaging_learners/informal_adult_learning/pledge If you would like to check your eligibility or have any specific queries regarding your eligibility or the application process, please contact Chris Fardon chris.fardon@mla.gov.uk posted 23.06.09

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Applications Open for Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation's 2010 Access to Learning Award

(Source: email from Bruce Royan to lis-pub-libs) The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is currently accepting applications to its annual Access to Learning Award (ATLA), which recognizes the innovative efforts of public libraries and similar institutions outside the United States to connect people to information and opportunities through free access to computers and the Internet. Applications are open to institutions outside the United States that are working with disadvantaged communities. To be eligible, the applying institution must allow all members of the public to use computers and the Internet free of charge in a community space. Applications for the 2010 Access to Learning Award must be submitted via an online submission process by October 31, 2009. The application form is available only in English and must be completed in English to be eligible for consideration. However, while applications must be submitted in English, the foundation does offer informational brochures in Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, and Spanish. You may find these and additional information on eligibility requirements and the process of selection at: http://www.gatesfoundation.org/ATLA. Thanks to John Vincent at network news for this item. www.seapn.org.uk

Refugee Week: Different Pasts, Shared Futures

For information about events for refugee week see the website: wwww.refugeeweek.org.uk running from 15 to 21st June.

MLA Invites Applications for Museum Apprenticeships

(Source: Renaissance North East E-bulletin - 11 June 2009) “MLA has pledged funding for up to 50 apprenticeships in museums across England over the next two years as part of the Creative Apprenticeship developed by Creative & Cultural Skills. Designed to open up entry routes into museums, the new funding will provide £5,000 for each year of the apprentice’s employment. They will ensure young people from a range of backgrounds are given the opportunity to work in the sector and will help forge stronger links with local communities. For further information and to apply visit www.ccskills.org.uk/Qualifications/CreativeApprenticeships/tabid/82/Default.aspx or contact Jennie Godsalve at Creative & Cultural Skills on 020 7015 1813 or jennie.godsalve@ccskills.org.uk. posted 15.06.09 with thanks to John Vincent of Network News for this item. www.seapn.org.uk

Heritage, Legacy and Leadership: Ideas and Interventions Report

This report from the Mayor of London's commission on African and Asian Heritage symposium, which took place in February in partnership with The Cultural Leadership Programme is now available to download here.

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Strategies for engaging young adults in the historic environment: HEACS report

HEACS has submitted its final Report and recommendations on strategies for engaging young adults in the historic environment to the Scottish Ministers. This was one of four priority issues on which the Scottish Ministers asked HEACS for advice during its second term (2006-2009). The final report sets out why engaging young adults matters, examines the challenges facing the sector in this area, and recommends a series of strategies. As part of this work, HEACS commissioned Applejuice Consultants to identify case studies of a wide range of projects from the UK, Europe and North America which have successfully engaged young adults in the historic environment. This report was also submitted to the Scottish Ministers. Liz Burns, Chair of HEACS, said: 'We believe these reports will be very useful to the historic environment sector in Scotland. We hope our work will help the sector to recognise the importance of engaging young adults in the historic environment and to focus more on the needs and interests of 16-24 year olds. We look forward to receiving the Minister's response in due course'. The reports can be found here: http://www.heacs.org.uk/newsreleases/2009/youngadults.htm. Comments on the report are welcome and should be sent to the HEACS Secretariat: heacs@scotland.gsi.gov.uk. Back posted 08.06.09 This news item came from the Heritage Link fortnightly e-bulletin. If you wish to receive this information direct then contact mail@heritagelink.org.uk

CLG: Empowering local communities to influence local decision making

Despite its current importance to policy makers, community empowerment is not easy to achieve. CLG has therefore reviewed published evidence to draw out key lessons for policy makers and practitioners. It defines empowerment success as having a recognisable impact on participants, on communities and on decision making. The report suggests four steps to making sense of empowerment: understanding your community, understanding the available tools, understanding the challenges. One of the tools it looks at in detail is asset transfer - the mechanism for achieving community ownership or management of public resources. The evidence shows that ‘asset transfer offers a genuine means for achieving popular control over decision making; that it can lead to increased financial investment in an underused or derelict asset. The development of the asset can be a spur for further activities on the part of the community anchor organisation and provide a resource for other community, social or private enterprises to develop their activities. Asset transfer empowers citizens and communities by enabling them to positively influence the development of resources and services for their area. The case study to underline these points is the former coal mining town of Amble in Northumberland. For the report see http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/localgovernment/pdf/1241999 posted 08.06.09 This news item came from the fortnightly e-bulletin of Heritage Link. If you wish to receive this first hand then contact mail@heritagelink.org.uk

EH Outreach Department and Heritage Open Days

Following the Civic Trust going into administration, the excellent Heritage Open Days scheme has been saved from an uncertain future by being taken on by English Heritage. From 18th May 2009, the HODs scheme officially became part of English Heritage securing the future of the event which sees over 3500 buildings open for free each September, attracting a million visitors and involving over 35,000 volunteers. The Heritage Open Days team join the EH Outreach team, which is the natural home of the scheme as the regional Outreach Managers spend 50% of their time working to take the scheme into new areas and encouraging people to open up properties and run activities that represent England’s diverse histories. EH is looking forward to making the 2009 event as successful as ever. posted 29.05.09

Grants Increase Access To Nature

Two major environmental projects are to share more than £2 million funding to celebrate the first anniversary of a successful lottery programme. To mark its first year of funding, the £25 million Natural England-run Access to Nature scheme has awarded flagship funding worth £1.2 million to the Woodland Trust to deliver VisitWoods – a project aiming to encourage more people to make the most of their local woodlands. posted 28.05.09 Source: j4bcommunity.co.uk

PM congratulates museums for work with young people

Learning to Live: Museums, young people and education is a series of essays commissioned by the National Museum Directors’ Conference in partnership with the Institute for Public Policy Research (ippr). The past ten years has seen a revolution in museum education. Museums have placed learning at the core of their service to the public and have developed extensive learning programmes, establishing their role as centres of knowledge in the community alongside schools and universities. The publication brings together leading figures from the worlds of culture and education to explore what museums and educators, working with policymakers and delivery bodies such as schools, can and should be doing, both within and beyond the classroom, to inspire greater learning and creativity among all young people. Speaking a reception at No 10 on 18 May, the Prime Minister Gordon Brown agreed the educational benefits of museums were enormous. He said we should be encouraged that what we do is important to the economy, society and the cultural life of the nation, passing on this knowledge to a younger generation and contributing to the quality of life. His comments were endorsed by Andy Burnham, Secretary of State for Culture Media and Sport who spoke about the transformation of museums and galleries over the past ten years in a way that now puts children at the centre of the museum experience. To download a copy visit http://www.nationalmuseums.org.uk/media/documents/publications/learning_to_live.pdf or for the press release see http://www.nationalmuseums.org.uk/news/?item posted 28.05.09 This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

Stories of the World launched: Cultural Olympiad

As London prepares to welcome the world in 2012, major museums and libraries across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland are preparing to host an unprecedented exploration of our past. Stories of the World, one of the major projects of the four-year London 2012 Cultural Olympiad, is a series of exciting exhibitions that will reconnect museum collections with the people and communities that they came from. Hosted by 59 venues across the UK, the £6 million programme is organised by the Museums and Libraries Association (MLA) in partnership with the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG). The programme will be delivered through 14 partnerships and will generate over 35 exhibitions and events UK-wide. The celebration will inspire young people to dig into the past and dust it down. They will work as curators, finding new ways to present objects and artefacts, discovering untold stories and hidden meanings, and working with museums, libraries and archives to generate a network of innovative exhibitions for 2011 and 2012. To find out more about Stories of the World, visit www.london2012.com/stories-of-the-world posted 18.05.09 This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

ENGAGE: New initiative to support Youth Volunteering and work placements

# Visual Roots is a new initiative run by Engage supporting accredited placements for vulnerable and hard to reach young people in the visual arts. Funding is now available to take part, visit the engage website for full details.

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Plans for more than 5,000 new jobs in culture, music and creative industries unveiled by Andy Burnham and James Purnell

Government plans to create between five and ten thousand new jobs for young people in the culture and creative industries sectors were set out today by Work and Pensions Secretary James Purnell and Culture Secretary Andy Burnham. Local councils, third sector groups, arts organisations and creative industry bodies will be able to bid for Government funding for new, innovative jobs. The new jobs are being created as part of the £1.1bn Future Jobs Fund announced in the Budget last month. Plans for the culture and creative sectors will include working with orchestras, arts organisations, heritage bodies and the music industry. The Culture Department is already working with key stakeholders in the cultural sector to put together partnerships that include music and arts leaders; the Heritage Lottery Fund; Arts Council England; the National Museums Directors Conference; the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council and many others. posted 18.05.09

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English Heritage rescues Heritage Open Days

English Heritage today (Monday 18th May), took ownership of Heritage Open Days, securing the future of the popular cultural event and reassuring one million participants and 35,000 volunteer organisers by guaranteeing that it will take place this year. English Heritage previously helped the Civic Trust to fund and operate Heritage Open Days, but concern had been raised over the event’s future since the Civic Trust in England announced that it had gone into administration. Katja Condy, Heritage Open Days Manager, said: “When the news of the Civic Trust’s demise broke a month ago, the news came as a shock to thousands of volunteers across the country who were already gearing up for another celebration of their local heritage in September. It put a huge question mark over the future of the event. We are greatly relieved that the programme has found a new home and that we can now focus on making the 15th edition of Heritage Open Days another success. posted 18.05.09

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New report offers 'rare insight' into racism suffered by UK Chinese community

A new Government-funded report into levels of racism experienced by members of the UK Chinese community should start a national debate on how best to tackle the problem, Cohesion Minister Sadiq Khan said today. posted 12.05.09 for more information see https://nds.coi.gov.uk/imagelibrary/detail.asp?MediaDetailsID=273781&HUserID=878,793,891,850,773,870,866,845,786,674,677,767,684,762,718,674,708,683,706,718,674

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ACE to provide £44.5 million to sustain arts through recession

Arts Council England will invest an extra £44.5 million in artists and arts organisations over the next two years to help maintain artistic excellence during the economic downturn. These counter-recessionary measures were announced by Chair Dame Liz Forgan, in a speech at an Arts Council sponsored seminar, Maximising the importance of arts and culture through the economic downturn, today 24 April 2009, in London. The initiatives include: * Sustain – a new £40 million open application fund for arts organisations suffering as a result of the recession * £500,000 support for the Town Centres Initiative to enable more artistic activities to take place in empty retail spaces * A £4 million increase in the Grants for the arts budget over the next two years Dame Liz called for public and private funders alike to maintain their levels of investment in the arts, and for artists to see themselves not as victims of the recession but as a key part of its solution. posted 07.05.09

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New Evaluation Resources Pack for Workers and Volunteers published

The Paul Hamlyn Foundation Evaluation Resource Pack has been produced to help front-line workers and volunteers in the voluntary sector use creative and participatory methods to evaluate their work. The full pack has been developed with considerable input from projects supported by the Paul Hamlyn Foundation who have contributed many of the methods for gathering evidence and good practice described in the pack. The pack encourages front line workers and volunteers to think positively about the purposes of evaluation so that they are doing as good a job as possible for those taking part. For more information visit http://www.phf.org.uk/page.asp?id=11 posted 06.05.09

Get It: The power of cultural learning

Get It: The Power of Cultural Learning is published today by the Culture and Learning Consortium, representing Arts Council England, Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, Clore Duffield Foundation, Esmée Fairbarn Foundation, Foyle Foundation, Heritage Lottery Fund, Museums, Libraries and Archives Council, Northern Rock Foundation and Paul Hamlyn Foundation. The report is based on the findings of an extensive public consultation among practitioners working across the cultural and learning sectors, and sets out the groundwork for a new approach to culture and learning in England. The report contains messages of support from many leading cultural figures, including Philip Pullman, Dame Judi Dench, Kevin Spacey, Michael Morpurgo, Sir Nicholas Serota and Tony Hall. The report makes a series of recommendations focused on improving outcomes for children and young people. It calls for joint action from the cultural and education sectors, at national, regional and local level, and from central government and other funders, in order to ensure provision of high-quality, sustainable and equitable cultural learning opportunities to meet the needs, aspirations and talents of all learners. It also asserts that in an economic downturn, funding needs to be protected or ring-fenced to enable cultural learning opportunities to thrive. The publication calls for the recognition of cultural learning as a national priority in education, and for the recognition of education as a national priority for cultural organisations – as a basic entitlement and basic skill, of core value in educational, social and emotional attainment for everyone. It aims to underpin existing government initiatives led by Creativity, Culture and Education, the new national agency which runs Creative Partnerships and Find Your Talent. The report is launched today, Monday 27 April 2009, at the Royal Society of Arts in London, with a keynote address by Dr Maggie Atkinson, Group Director, Learning and Children, Gateshead Council, and Immediate Past President of the Association of Directors of Children’s Services. Get It: The Power of Cultural Learning, is not intended as an endpoint, but rather as a platform for further discussion, collaboration and action. The report is downloadable at www.cultureandlearning.org.uk. posted 28.04.09

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BLEARS BACKS ‘REVOLUTION TO RECYCLE’ BUILDINGS

Communities Secretary Hazel Blears has today unveiled a series of measures to back a people’s revolution to recycle buildings by putting real power in the hands of locals to support communities during the downturn and beyond. The tougher economic climate has led to renewed interest in communities maintaining local assets, from post offices to pubs. As part of the Government’s empowerment agenda, Ms Blears has announced a new single advice line - 0845 345 4564 - and other Government support to make it easier for people to take control of community assets, from community centres to theatres. “Local people have been leading a revolution to recycle buildings for the community, particularly during the downturn. “We want to help more local people get their hands on local buildings so they can put them to work for the community. For too long, too many have not even seen it as an option. And when they have it has felt like an endurance test. “We want to change the odds in their favour, and for them to know that taking the first step could be a simple phone call. posted 28.04.09

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In the midst of a recession how can we develop cohesive communities?

Have your say about how we can build cohesive communities during a recession in modern day Britain. From today until 6th May 2009, the HCA Academy is hosting the second in the series of online debates. To join the debate click below. The site also contains films and case studies/good practice examples of bringing different community groups together. posted 23.04.09

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(CLG) A bigger role for communities in inspiring young people

Young people will get extra encouragement to unlock their talents as part of a £10m Inspiring Communities initiative, Communities Secretary Hazel Blears announced today. The Government's New Opportunities White Paper argued that social mobility has improved in recent years. Some 600,000 youngsters have been lifted out of poverty in the last decade. The proportion of young people from lower income families going to university has gone up. However, the White Paper also recognised that in some deprived areas, young people are less likely to aim high. They do not always make the link between doing well in education and doing well in life. Low self esteem, low aspirations and limited horizons can act as barriers to success. What happens in schools is crucial to addressing underachievement, but a child's sense of what they can achieve is influenced by factors beyond the school gate. Lack of inspiration or support from friends, families or peers can all play a part. Inspiring Communities is about investing in locally conceived, locally delivered projects that will get whole communities standing behind the talented young people in their midst and make sure that communities play a bigger part in fostering and investing in that talent. for more details see: https://nds.coi.gov.uk/imagelibrary/detail.asp?MediaDetailsID=271165&HUserID=878,793,891,850,773,870,866,845,786,674,677,767,684,762,718,674,708,683,706,718,674 posted 15.04.09

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Heritage Grants Lead To Bright Future

Six major projects are to share £21 million funding to increase the UK’s cultural heritage. A £4.53 million grant for the Scottish National Portrait Gallery is one of the initiatives to receive a slice of the Heritage Lottery Fund’s latest awards. The cash will be used as part of a huge revamp, supported by a further £5 million funding from the Scottish Government, that will double the Edinburgh-based gallery’s exhibition space. A further £2.24 million has been offered towards the restoration of Castle Hill and Ranfurly House in Dungannon, Northern Ireland. The Castle’s two landmark 18th-century Knox Hannyngton towers will be redeveloped, while the Grade B-listed Ranfurly House will be fully refurbished. Other grants include: * £4.76 million to build a new interpretive centre and save more than 1,200 trees in Epping Forest, Essex. * £2.6 million to create “Experience Barnsley” – a new museum and archives centre at the town’s Grade II-listed town hall. * £3 million to restore the Grade I-listed St James Priory in Bristol. * £3.79 million to improve the internationally famous gardens at Great Dixter in East Sussex. Announcing the funding fillip, Dame Jenny Abramsky, chair of the Heritage Lottery Fund, said: “During these tough economic times we still need to enjoy the things which enrich the quality of our daily lives, whether it’s a beautiful garden, a gallery full of wonderful paintings, or a much loved historic building. “This substantial lottery investment demonstrates that heritage is as much about the future as the past.” The Heritage Lottery Fund also gave the green light to three other projects – the Abbotsford Conservation and Presentation Project; Southampton Sea Museum; and Westonbirt Arboretum. These schemes will receive development funding in order to complete a full scale application within the next couple of years. HLF 30.03.09 posted 15.04.09 source: J4Bcommunity funding newsletter

CLG) Listening to views on race equality - Hazel Blears kicks off regional tour

Communities Secretary Hazel Blears today kicked off the first in a series of regional events which will hear views from the public about Government's plans for a new race equality strategy and how we can make society stronger and fairer for everyone. Recent findings show us that further progress on achieving full race equality depends on recognising that different ethnic groups are experiencing disadvantage in different ways. Each of the regional events will give people in local communities, businesses, charities, voluntary groups and local authorities the chance to have their say on how best we can accelerate the move away from a "one size fits all" approach to race equality. 1. Following the first event in Manchester events in seven other cities will follow: Cambridge Tuesday 7 April Nottingham Thursday 9 April Leeds Tuesday 21 April Newcastle Thursday 23 April Birmingham Tuesday 28 April Bristol Thursday 30 April London Thursday 7 May posted 05.04.09 https://nds.coi.gov.uk/imagelibrary/detail.asp?MediaDetailsID=270684&HUserID=878,793,891,850,773,870,866,845,786,674,677,767,684,762,718,674,708,683,706,718,674

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Network of artists and arts organisations using empty shop spaces

Shops Network is a network of artists and arts organisations using empty shop spaces across the UK to create temporary pop-up shops, community spaces and galleries. In February 2009, it was estimated that about 10 per cent of the UK’s shops were sitting empty and the figure is rising. Landlords letting artists and arts organisations use their empty spaces see the property kept in good order, and their business getting some positive publicity. Artists benefit from low-cost space on short and easy-to-manage leases. This means they can take a bigger risk on bolder, more innovative and experimental projects, and maybe get a good business kick-started. Local communities benefit from increased access to meaningful and enjoyable arts activity on their high street and seeing their town being brought back to life. For more information visit http://www.artistsandmakers.com/staticpages/index.php/emptyshops posted 01.04.09 This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

New Evaluation Resources Pack for Workers and Volunteers published

The Paul Hamlyn Foundation Evaluation Resource Pack has been produced to help front-line workers and volunteers in the voluntary sector use creative and participatory methods to evaluate their work. The full pack has been developed with considerable input from projects supported by the Paul Hamlyn Foundation who have contributed many of the methods for gathering evidence and good practice described in the pack. The pack encourages front line workers and volunteers to think positively about the purposes of evaluation so that they are doing as good a job as possible for those taking part. For more information visit http://www.phf.org.uk/page.asp?id=204 posted 01.04.09 This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

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Arts, Culture and Inclusion

Arts and refugees: history, impact and future, by Kidd, Zahir and Khan (2008), traces the history of the arts and refugees in the UK over the past 20 years, and reports on trends in practice and funding and outcomes. It finds that participation in the arts is used to address a broad range of social objectives, with reported benefits of arts-based projects including: their usefulness for processes of communication; their contribution to social and community cohesion; their effects on the mental and physical health of participants; their contribution to capacity building and skills development within refugee community organisations and for individuals; and their role in supporting the professional development of refugee artists, as well as celebrating refugees' cultural heritage. For information visit http://www.impact.arts.gla.ac.uk/newsletters/impact_update0209/ posted 01.04.09 This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

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Cultural investment and the credit crunch: US style

As Budget Day - 22 April - approaches, will it include measures to stimulate the construction industry, and might it even put forward measures to incentivise maintenance, repair and refurbishment as well as to strengthen the tourism industry? The UK government is already aware how the USA and France have recognised the value of the creative and cultural sector in the economy. Will the UK government do likewise? The final version of the US Economic recovery Bill signed by the President Obama on 16 February includes $50m in direct support for arts jobs through National Endowment for the Arts Grants. An amendment that would have prevented museums, theatres, and arts centres from receiving stimulus funds was successfully removed. The extra $50m is a significant boost for the agency whose annual budget previously stood at $145m. The Bill calls for 40% of the new money to be distributed to state arts organisations and regional arts organisations. The remaining 60% will be set aside for individual arts projects competing for Endowment grants. The successful campaign, orchestrated by Americans for the Arts, the non-profit organization for advancing the arts and grass roots participation, generated more than 85000 letters to Congress, thousands of calls, hundreds of letters to media and blogs on the role of the arts in the economy together with direct lobbying. The US National Trust for Historic Preservation set out arguments for heritage input into a sustainable approach to current economic problems in a stimulus plan that can be found at http://www.preservationnation.org/take-action/advocacy-center/platform/economic-stimulus.html posted 01.04.09 This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

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Gov. support for Black voluntary and community organisations

Government support for Black voluntary and community organisations for more information see. https://nds.coi.gov.uk/imagelibrary/detail.asp?MediaDetailsID=269975&HUserID=878,793,891,850,773,870,866,845,786,674,677,767,684,762,718,674,708,683,706,718,674 posted 31.03.09

Connecting communities to the information superhighway

BT Community Connections is an award scheme which enables community and charitable organisations to get online and make use of information and communications technology (ICT). Organisations, working in any field of community benefit, located throughout the UK or ROI can apply for a laptop and a year's free broadband connection. There are more than 1,000 award packages available to groups who can demonstrate how an award will benefit their work and the local community. The current round of applications is now open with a deadline of 9th June. For more information see: http://www.btcommunityconnections.com/ posted 25.03.09

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Guidance on the potential of faith buildings as a community asset

The Government and the Church of England today published ‘Churches and Faith Buildings: Realising the Potential’, to help all faith groups find resources to make faith buildings more sustainable by enhancing the facilities and services they offer to local communities. posted 25.03.09 for more information see: https://nds.coi.gov.uk/imagelibrary/detail.asp?MediaDetailsID=269210&HUserID=878,793,891,850,773,870,866,845,786,674,677,767,684,762,718,674,708,683,706,718,674

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Peer Review results for DCMS museums published

The results of a pilot programme to introduce a new system of self-assessment and peer review for directly sponsored museums were published this week by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. The pilots were carried out at the National Portrait Gallery, Natural History Museum and Tyne & Wear Museums. Welcoming the three reports, Culture Secretary Andy Burnham said: "Peer review is the right way to drive forward quality and excellence across museums and the wider cultural sector moving away from the concerns about targets and box ticking. The museums will learn much from the exercise and become stronger and more confident as a result. I am pleased to see the evidence of how strongly they are all performing and I look forward to developing this work across the cultural sector over the coming years." posted 16.03.09

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Community Development approachs to building stronger communities

New report from the Community Development Foundation, which looks at the learning coming out of projects funded via the Faith Communities Capacity Building Fund (FCCBF) and Connecting Communities Plus, Community Grants. Particularly useful summary of good practice for people engaged in community cohesion work. New report from the Community Development Foundation, which looks at the learning coming out of projects funded via the Faith Communities Capacity Building Fund (FCCBF) and Connecting Communities Plus, Community Grants. Particularly useful summary of good practice for people engaged in community cohesion work. see http://www.cdf.org.uk/SITE/UPLOAD/DOCUMENT/creating_spaces.pdf posted 16.03.09 This news item came from John Vincent at Network News http://www.seapn.org.uk/

Young People and Community Cohesion

This latest in the National Youth Agency’s series of case studies “picks up practice in five projects working with young volunteers to promote and develop community cohesion. The young people are either marginalised or at risk of being marginalised, often because of a range of complex factors such as where they live, their racial background, their lifestyle choices, their faith, or a lack of opportunities.” http://www.nya.org.uk/files/133756/FileName/yaefeb09.pdf posted 15.03.09 This news item came from John Vincent at Network News http://www.seapn.org.uk/

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Lift-Off For New Fund -

A £300,000 scheme aiming to help change the lives of young people from disadvantaged communities has taken flight. The Learning Launchpad will offer investments up to £100,000 for groups looking to provide alternatives to formal education for 14 to 25-year-olds. Delivered by the Young Foundation in partnership with independent education foundation Edge, the scheme will offer both financial and advisory support for groups to ensure that youngsters get the advice and skills they need to fulfil their potential. Charities, social enterprises and other groups looking to kick-start a new project can apply for funding worth up to £30,000, whilst established initiatives already up and running can bid for up to £100,000 to expand their services. Deadline for first round of applications: 31st March. posted 12.03.09 http://www.learninglaunchpad.org/

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Plans for more young Mayors unveiled (CLG)

The world of politics is to be opened up to young people as new opportunities to become a young mayor with a real mandate and a real budget are announced today (Wednesday, 11 March) by Communities Secretary Hazel Blears. The elected Mayors represent youngsters aged between 11 and 18 years old, giving them a voice to influence decisions made by their local council. They also have a budget to spend on initiatives which will benefit young people in their area. for more information see https://nds.coi.gov.uk/content/detail.asp?ReleaseID=395175&NewsAreaID=2&HUserID=878,793,891,850,773,870,866,845,786,674,677,767,684,762,718,674,708,683,706,718,674 posted 12.03.09

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Science and Heritage Programme Grants

he Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) are taking forward a joint £8.1m programme entitled Science and Heritage to support leading-edge research which will explore new ways to understand the cultural and physical nature of heritage and to prepare society for the challenges that cultural heritage will face in the 21st Century. The AHRC / EPSRC Science and Heritage Programme would like to announce two competitions for funding, full details of which will be published soon: Interdisciplinary Research Grants and Post-doctoral Fellowships. The full Programme Specification, including further details of the themes, will be made available soon. Further details on other activities under the Science and Heritage Programme, and the research already funded, can be found at http://www.heritagescience.ac.uk/index.php?section=1 posted 10.03.09 This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

Survey: A Quality Badge for self-employed?

he DCSF has charged Cape UK with the task of canvassing views on the value of establishing a Quality Badge for self employed individuals involved in Learning Outside the Classroom. This could be relevant to many different kinds of professionals: the dance practitioner working regularly in a school hall; the instructor leading an adventurous expedition; a willow-weaver working with a group of pupils on a school grounds project; the farmer taking livestock into a school. A Quality Badge is already available to organisations engaged in developing authentic learning experiences for children beyond the classroom door; see www.lotcqualitybadge.org.uk for more information. It endorses organisations operating with good quality assurance and risk management procedures and thus makes it easier for schools to identify who they would like to work with. The survey will run until 16 March. To complete this survey visit http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=5aMNO3OAY_2bZxYKHJ2_2b5xbg_3d_3d posted 10.03.09 his news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

Government outlines new plans for achieving race equality in UK

A wide-reaching consultation on improving opportunities for Black, Asian and minority ethnic people was announced today by Communities Secretary Hazel Blears. A new report demonstrates that the Government has made significant progress in tackling race equality in everything from the job market and health services, to education, housing and criminal justice. The third and final report on the Government's race equality strategy, Improving Opportunity, Strengthening Society shows that further progress depends on recognising that different ethnic groups are experiencing disadvantage in different ways. The Government is consulting on how best to move away from a "one size fits all" approach to targeted help addressing the different needs of particular groups.

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Towards a Museum of British History

The Museums, Libraries and Archives Council have recommended against the purpose-built Museum of British History in favour of a virtual museum.

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Guidance on building a local sense of belonging: CLG Publication

A new publication from CLG presents guidance for local cohesion practitioners on how to develop individuals’ sense of belonging to their immediate neighbourhood. The guidance explains that a sense of belonging is a key indicator of community cohesion. It outlines the key findings of research which examined people's identity and sense of belonging. It presents a selection of local authority statements on cohesion and local belonging from their Sustainable Community Strategies. It also provides advice on writing such a statement and sets out some specific examples of initiatives that have been established to help foster a sense of belonging to local communities. The document aims to provide advice on establishing such initiatives, including: communicating the vision; using history, key past events and shared memories; using geographical features, key buildings, parks and other symbols; using symbolic events, such as festivals and carnivals; using activities and shared interests such as sport, art or culture; welcoming new residents; and promoting empowerment. To view the document visit http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/communities/senseofbelonging posted 25.02.09 his news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

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European Year of Volunteering 2011 Confirmed

After much pressure by the EY2011 Alliance - an alliance of NGOs including Euclid Network - the European Commission has declared 2011 to be European Year of the Volunteer. A planned change in European Commission personnel this year had prompted fears that the event could be pushed back to 2013. During the year, EUR15m (£13m) would be spent on promoting volunteering across the European Union. But Markus Held, director of the European Volunteer Centre, which has been coordinating a campaign to lobby for the year with 17 volunteering organisations, said he had received an email from a commission official last week confirming that it had received instructions to prepare for the year to be held in 2011. The next steps of the alliance are to plan the implementation of the year that will include events and funding opportunities. For more information please email Markus Held, Director of the European Volunteer Centre on cev@cev.be posted 25.02.09 his news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

Heritage Link signposts volunteering management resources

A huge number of volunteers could be attracted into the heritage sector adding to its capacity and skills base. Volunteers can contribute not only muscle power at heritage sites but also a huge range of specialist skills at organisational level – HR, project management, strategic planning and financial management, marketing and communications and IT knowhow. For better or worse, heritage organisations have bypassed the local volunteer centres but these can direct volunteers your way. To find your local one see http://www.volunteering.org.uk/WhatWeDo/Local+and+Regional/findoutaboutvolunteeringinyourarea.htm Volunteers with management and other specialist skills can be found through REACH http://www.reach-online.org.uk/ and the Cranfield Trust http://www.cranfieldtrust.org/index.php?pIDref=115-volunteers, or advertise (at a reduced rate) on Wednesdays through The Guardian. But volunteers aren’t free. They need managing, nurturing, even cosseting. To encourage our members and the sector to make best use of volunteers, Heritage Link has posted a new resource on its website. Volunteering Resources compiled by Sara Crofts of SPAB lists information on how to survive the recession as well as guidance notes on volunteering and volunteer management. See www.heritagelink.org.uk/volunteering-resources/

BBC work experience for young people

BBC Blast are now recruiting for 2009 work experience opportunities. For your chance to get involved visit:

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Victoria County History provides free local history resources for schools

A new website from Victoria County History offers teachers free access to units of work backed by the research of professional historians. The Schools Learning Zone has been produced as part of the Victoria County History’s Heritage Lottery-funded project England’s Past for Everyone. The materials have been tested in schools and show students how their local history is linked to wider historical events. Downloadable teachers’ packs include indoor and outdoor activities, timelines and other historical resources. Aimed at Key Stages 1-3, the lesson plans are linked to National Curriculum learning outcomes for each unit of work. Further materials, including interactive activities for students, will be added throughout 2009. Visit:

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Government Unveils Third Sector “Recession Fund”

Charities and social enterprises are to receive a £42.5 million cash injection to help the people hardest hit by the economic downturn. The Government’s third sector action plan, Real Help for Communities, will enable hundreds of groups to step up advice, support and volunteering in areas hit by the recession. posted 23.02.09

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Funding Support for engaging women

Charities and community groups are invited to apply for grants to carry out projects that increase self-esteem amongst women. Rosa, the first UK-wide charitable fund specifically aimed at promoting equality and justice for women, is accepting applications to its first quarterly funding round.

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How to … Involve ‘hard to reach’ children and young people

New guide from Participation Works, published by NCB, “aims to provide an understanding of why some children and young people might not make use of the services, organisations and activities that are on offer to them. It also offers practical ideas for enabling those individuals to get involved.” http://www.participationworks.org.uk/Portals/0/Files/resources/k-items/participationworks/howtoguides/how-to-hard-to-reach15.01.2009.pdf posted 11.02.09 This news item came from John Vincent at Network News http://www.seapn.org.uk/

Some funding opportunities with February deadlines

Social Entrepreneur Awards http://entrepreneurs.bankofscotland.co.uk/social/?lpsrc=google&lpgrp=entrepreneur&lptxt=entrepreneur_awards&lpkey=entrepreneur%20awards&gclid=CKm2yoKasZgCFQFhQgodnkaDUQ (Source: National Youth Agency Participation News, 13, February 2009) New awards launched by the Bank of Scotland and aimed at not-for-profit organisations whose primary purpose is to support an issue or matter of public interest or to further social and/or environmental goals for non-commercial purposes and social or community benefit. There are two awards to apply to: the first for up to £5 million in funding or a cash donation of up to £500,000; and the second for up to £1 million in funding, or a cash donation of up to £100,000. The winners will also receive mentoring and publicity support. Closing date for entries is 23 February 2009. Timely Information to Citizens. Opportunity to bid for pilot funding www.esd.org.uk/informingcitizens (Source: email from Helen Carpenter) The Timely Information to Citizens project team at CLG is inviting local authorities in England to submit funding proposals for innovative pilot projects to empower their citizens with information. They would like to fund around 10 projects, to test out innovative approaches and techniques which will advance their knowledge of good practice and act as exemplars to other authorities. There is £500,000 in 2009-10 to fund a mixture of capital and revenue projects. The deadline for this is 27 February 2009. LIRG Research Award 2009 http://www.cilip.org.uk/specialinterestgroups/bysubject/research/activities/awards (Source: email from Juliet Eve) The LIRG research award is designed to promote research in library and information science. The aim of the award is to encourage and facilitate research by practitioners in the field. The Library & Information Research Group (LIRG) welcomes proposals from all sectors of the profession, and particularly invites practitioners to apply, either as sole applicants, or in collaboration with academic or independent researchers. Applications from academics in library and information science departments are also welcomed and proposals which are submitted in partnership with practitioners are particularly welcomed. The award is worth £1000, and designed to support small-scale research projects for which it may otherwise be difficult to find funding. The Award may be used to defray research expenses (e.g. travel, postage costs), to fund attendance at high level meetings or to fund a study tour. However, a clear overall aim for the research must be stated. Guidelines for submission and evaluation criteria are on the LIRG web pages noted above. The closing date for submissions: 28 February 2009. Helena Kennedy Foundation – Awards available in 2009 http://www.hkf.org.uk/index.php?pageID=1&subID=997 (Source: email from Helen Carpenter) Since 1998, the Helena Kennedy Foundation has been running a bursary scheme to provide much needed financial support to disadvantaged students, who have successfully completed a further education course and wish to progress to higher education. See the range of awards available at the above weblink; guidance on eligibility and applications is at: http://www.hkf.org.uk/index.php?pageID=1&subID=33. posted 11.02.09 This news item came from John Vincent at Network News http://www.seapn.org.uk/

9 museums join forces to create online learning project

Nine of the UK's leading museums and galleries will be combining their own online collections for the first time in February 2009. The National Museums Online Learning Project brings the nation's inspirational collections into one place, providing a search facility that spans collections from the British Museum, Imperial War Museum, National Portrait Gallery, Natural History Museum, Royal Armouries, Sir John Soane's Museum, Tate, Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) and The Wallace Collection. This is the first time so many national museums and galleries have worked together in this way. The project was made possible through funding from HM Treasury from the Invest to Save Programme and cash contributions from the partnering museums. The project aim has been to use existing online content with new web technology to drive forward a whole new kind of e-learning. Having access to the widest range of original source material helps people of all ages find out more about art, science, history and culture. posted 09.02.09

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Citizens feel a strong sense of belonging

Headline figures from new government report saying that people feel a strong sense of connection to their local area, but not necessarily that they have a voice within it. for more information see: https://nds.coi.gov.uk/imagelibrary/detail.asp?MediaDetailsID=264096&HUserID=878,793,891,850,773,870,866,845,786,674,677,767,684,762,718,674,708,683,706,718,674 posted 05.01.09

MLA Community Empowerment Discussion Paper

MLA have issued a consultation paper which sets out the relevant aspects of the Community Empowerment White Paper and describes ways in which the sector can contribute to this agenda. rvtest posted 05.01.09 This news item came from John Vincent at Network News http://www.seapn.org.uk/ Posted 05.02.09 This news item came from John Vincent at Network News http://www.seapn.org.uk/ http://www.mla.gov.uk/what/policy_development/~/media/335CDF5A7BB644B0B7B11B6A592EB953.ashx The background to this is set out at: http://www.mla.gov.uk/what/policy_development/current_consultations. Please send your views to Jennifer Ngyou, Policy Adviser: Communities and Local Government at jennifer.ngyou@mla.gov.uk.

Launch of Engaging Places

A new initiative has been launched that aims to help every school exploit the ‘world’s biggest teaching resource’. Engaging Places will champion teaching and learning throughout the built environment. It includes the launch of a major new online teaching resource, www.engagingplaces.org.uk. This will be the most comprehensive guide ever created to help schools teach by using the buildings and places around them. Research has shown that teachers view buildings and spaces as an important educational resource, and want better access, information and support to exploit it. Schools will be able to use Engaging Places to access a nationwide directory of organisations and venues, including architecture centres, museums and historic buildings. They will be able to search for high quality resources and materials and will also be able to access case studies from fellow teachers. Engaging Places has been designed to help deliver the new secondary school curriculum which is being introduced for Key Stage 3. It supports initiatives including ‘Learning outside the classroom’ and ‘Find your talent’. It will benefit pupils by showing them how their rapidly changing environment affects them and how they can influence it. The initiative led by Heritage Link’s Chair, Anthea Case has been funded by the Government and is managed by CABE and English Heritage. posted 29.01.09 his news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

GAIN looking to recruit more disabled people at Board Level

GAIN (Governance, Access, Inclusion and Networking) is looking to recruit individuals who have a keen interest in arts, heritage or sports, for Board Management Opportunities for Disabled People. For more information see: http://gain.itc-arts.org/page78.aspx posted 29.01.09

National Trust bequeathed Kenyan Poets House

The remarkable home of Khadambi Asalache, a Kenyan born poet, writer and artist, has been left to the National Trust. The National Trust has concluded that the house is a great work of art and an important part of the UK’s built heritage. It is a place that presents an opportunity to celebrate artistic endeavour and to tell Khadambi Asalache’s story, one which encapsulates many themes associated with the UK’s diverse cultural heritage. The house is also being seen as particularly important for London and should funding be secured the Trust hopes to establish a community and education centre nearby in order that the local community and others can fully benefit from access to this extraordinary place. Ian Wilson, the National Trust's London area manager, said its artistry told the multi-cultural story ‘of coming to a new place, making a life for yourself but hanging on to your heritage’. The Trust has already allotted £1m towards the project, but it has warned the house could be lost to the nation if it could not raise a further £2m to £4m. For more information about the house, visit http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-global/w-news/w-latest_news/w-khamdambi_alalache.htm posted 29.01.09 This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

National indicators 9, 10 and 11: baselines for local authorities

The Local Area Agreements (LAAs) established by Local Authorities in June 2008 with Government and their partners, included targets to improve public services and the quality of life for people living and working in an area. Local authorities chose 35 targets from a possible 198 in the National Indicator Set, four of which belong to DCMS:NI 8 Participation in sport and active recreation; NI 9 Use of public libraries; NI 10 Visits to museums and galleries; and NI 11 Engagement in the arts. This report presents baseline estimates for those local authorities that selected one or more of the cultural National Indicators, 9, 10 and 11. Data are based on interviews conducted between April 2008 and October 2008. This is the first time comparable data on cultural engagement at the local level has been collected and published. Interim progress will be available in December 2009, using data collected between October 2008 and October 2009. Final progress will be assessed in December 2010, using data collected between October 2009 and October 2010. Museums Libraries and Archives (ML) focussing on museum attendance were able to report that nearly half the population in England (48%) use libraries, and 54% visit museums. The MLA has invested in the survey so it details for the first time, local authority by local authority, levels of people’s participation. It has enabled MLA to detect even in these first statistics, a close link between library spending levels per head and participation data. Further work will be done to examine the correlation between class, race, deprivation, spending levels, and the proximity of museums and libraries themselves. The data can be found at http://www.dcms.gov.uk/reference_library/research_and_statistics/5607.aspx MLA’s press release is at http://www.mla.gov.uk/news/press/releases/2008/active_people_stats posted 19.01.09 This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

National Audit Office study on English Heritage

he National Audit Office (NAO) is carrying out a study that will examine how effective English Heritage has been at increasing, and broadening the diversity of, engagement with the nation’s heritage. The NAO will examine this in the context of English Heritage’s wider objectives to conserve and enhance the historic environment. The study will cover English Heritage’s management of its own sites and the initiatives to increase and broaden engagement, as well as influence over the sector as a whole. In doing this the NAO will also consider how English Heritage allocated its resources and how it delivers Outreach programmes. The study will also consider whether English Heritage’s grant programme makes provision for increasing engagement and how effectively it works with the other heritage organisations. Field work for the study commenced in December 2008 and will continue until March 2009. A report is scheduled to be published in Summer 2009. For more information contact Flo Ashley, Audit Principal by emailing flo.ashley@nao.gsi.gov.uk or telephone 020 7798 7532. posted 19.01.09 This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

Taking Part: historic environment tops the inclusion improvements

Before Christmas, DCMS issued the final figures for year 3 of the Taking Part survey, monitoring achievement against the Public Service Agreement (PSA) 3 target covering culture and sports participation. The PSA 3 target for the heritage sector was to increase the rate of attendance at heritage sites by three percentage points for each of three priority groups – black and minority ethnic, people with limiting disability and people from lower socio-economic groups, between 2005/6 and 2007/8. The heritage sector has worked hard on broadening its appeal. The latest figures show that more people than ever before are visiting heritage sites, with the greatest percentage increase (11%) being amongst people from Black and minority ethnic groups. The swell of interest from minority communities (with 220,000 more people having visited a site this year) is nearly twice the rate of growth in the wider public. An early analysis of the results has revealed a particularly marked increase in interest in historic places amongst communities who are also in lower socio-economic groups; mixed race or Asian; or Muslim. There were peaks of new interest in Yorkshire and Humber and the West Midlands. Of the three targets set by DCMS at the beginning of the process, the heritage sector achieved increases in participation in all three groups, with the three percentage point increase (to 54.1% from 50.7%) in black and minority ethnic participants being achieved, a statistically significant increase in participation by C2DE groups (to 59.4% from 57.1%) and an increase (although not statistically significant) in participation by those with a disability (to 60.9% from 59.5%). There was also a statistically significant increase in overall participation of 1.2 percentage points to 71.1% of England’s adults (from 69.9%). There are now 29.5 million adults visiting heritage sites, up 1.7 million from 2005/06. The full PSA3 report can also be found along with other Taking Part material on the DCMS website at http://www.culture.gov.uk/reference_library/publications/5653.aspx There is also an English Heritage press release commenting on the results. http://amaxus.english-heritage.org.uk/server/show/ConWebDoc.15219 posted 19.01.09 This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

Andy Burnham (DCMS) Jan 09 Capital of Culture speech

Secretary of State, Andy Burnham's speech to University of Liverpool: five lessons from Liverpool's year as capital of culture included the use of cultural and creative activities by public bodies.

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Monitoring Poverty and Social Exclusion 2008

This report by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation marks the tenth anniversary of the first edition of Monitoring poverty and social exclusion. Built around a set of indicators constructed using the latest official government data, the report assesses the record across a wide range of subjects from low income to exclusion from services. It effectively provides a picture of the state of poverty and social exclusion in the UK just before the onset of the recent economic downturn. The authors conclude that while several headline indicators show early momentum has not been sustained, this pattern is by no means the norm. http://www.jrf.org.uk/knowledge/findings/socialpolicy/2338.asp posted 05.01.09 This news item came from John Vincent at Network News http://www.seapn.org.uk/

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Jenny Abramsky at Heritage Day

See a copy of the speech the new Chair of HLF made at the Heritage Link AGM and Heritage day. Titled "Valuing our Heritage; Investing in Our Future" the new Chair of the Heritage Lottery Fund, Jenny Abramsky, tied the HLF firmly into the challenges facing the heritage sector. She too argued that the momentum for heritage protection reform should not be lost. In particular she urged Government to capture in its vision statement the true value of heritage in its widest sense. ‘The vision must not disappoint’, she said, ‘at the very least it will need to reflect the degree to which people really appreciate their historic surroundings and it must acknowledge the huge public appetite for learning about the past. Fundamentally, it will need to demonstrate that Government can provide responsible stewardship for our heritage now, even in a time of recession, and in the future.’ http://www.hlf.org.uk/English/MediaCentre/Archive/Heritage+Link+Heritage+Day+speech.htm

posted 18/12/08 This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

Homes and Communities Academy Awards 2009

The Government’s awards for sustainable communities have been opened for entries. Entries are invited from individuals, organisations, partnerships, projects and initiatives across England. Award categories include: * Empowered communities (supporting local people to improve their neighbourhoods) * Investing in young people * Leadership of place * Places for all (strengthening communities through culture and heritage). The application guidance booklet is available at: http://www.hcaacademy.co.uk/sites/default/files/awards_guidance_notes_09.pdf . The deadline for submission of entries is 11 February 2009.

posted 18.12.08 This news item came from John Vincent at Network News http://www.seapn.org.uk/

All change at Awards for All

Following a review of the Awards for All England programme, changes are to be made to the small grants scheme 's existing format when it comes to an end in March 2009. Currently Awards for All England is a joint Lottery grants programme supported by Arts Council England, Big Lottery Fund, Heritage Lottery Fund and Sport England. From 1 April 2009 each of the lottery distributors supporting the scheme will have their own small grants programmes up and running. Applications can still be made under the current arrangements until 31 March 2009. Overall, across all the distributors, it is anticipated that new money available for small grants in 2009-10 will be comparable to money that was available to community groups through Awards for All in 2008-2009. Distributors will each run their own small grants programme as follows: Big Lottery Fund will launch a new small grants programme on 1 April 2009 awarding grants of £300 to £10,000 to local communities in 2009-2010. Sport England will provide small grants for sports ranging from £300 - £10,000 from 1 April 2009. Arts Council England will provide small grants through their existing ‘Grants for the arts' programme, supporting awards between £1,000 and £100,000. Heritage Lottery Fund small grants will be provided through the existing 'Your Heritage' (£3,000 to £50,000) and 'Young Roots (£3,000 to £25,000) schemes. To find out more, go to http://www.awardsforall.org.uk/england/index.html posted 18.12.08

(DCMS) Dame Liz Forgan to be chair of Arts Council England

Dame Liz Forgan has been appointed as Chair of Arts Council England, Culture Secretary Andy Burnham announced today. Dame Liz Forgan, who was previously Chair of the National Heritage Memorial Fund and the Heritage Lottery Fund, will be the first woman to chair the Arts Council in its 62 year history. She will take up her four-year post on 1 February 2009, replacing current Chair Sir Christopher Frayling. for further information see: https://nds.coi.gov.uk/imagelibrary/detail.asp?MediaDetailsID=260631&HUserID=878,793,891,850,773,870,866,845,786,674,677,767,684,762,718,674,708,683,706,718,674 posted 18.12.08

Cash Boost For War Heroes

The first ten projects to receive funding from a scheme that celebrates the contribution of Scotland’s war veterans have been revealed. Communities Minister Stewart Maxwell announced the organisations that will be offered grants from the opening round of the Scottish Veterans’ Fund. The programme, which has an £80,000 budget in each of the financial years up to 2011, can provide grants of up to £10,000 for projects that deliver new or innovative approaches to veterans’ issues. Amongst the ten projects to receive a welcome cash injection were the First Base Agency in Dumfries, who will offer advice and support for veterans with drug dependency issues, and Scottish Veterans Residencies, who are set to launch a new one-stop-shop website dealing with housing for veterans. Mr Maxwell revealed the winning bids during a visit to one of the successful projects at Erskine. He said: “War veterans are heroes and deserve our lasting gratitude for their selfless duty to their country. “These projects will allow veterans across Scotland to use the skills, experience and confidence gained through their service careers as well as helping them adjust to civilian life.” Funding is available for a range of initiatives, including holding commemorative events, helping veterans’ transition back to civilian life, and inter-generational educational projects that enhance young people’s understanding about the debt society owes to Armed Forces personnel. Applications will be assessed against a range of criteria, including whether the project will directly benefit ex-Service personnel, and how the initiative will raise the public’s awareness of veterans’ issues. In the next round of funding, groups interested in staging projects to mark Veterans Day are asked to apply before 1 April. Bids for all other types of project must be made before 1 June. For further information about the Scottish Veterans’ Fund, visit the Scottish Government website (opens a new window) Alternatively, visit the Veterans Scotland website http://www.veteransscotland.co.uk/ Source: Scottish Government, 18/12/2008

Jodi Award Winners 2008

Kevin Carey, Vice Chair of the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), called for renewed effort to make UK digital culture accessible for all at the 2008 Jodi Awards on Friday December 5, 2008, at the British Museum, London. In a typically passionate speech Kevin outlined a new reality for culture creators, publishers and producers. He called for the setting up of a national Centre for Excellence for Accessible Media funded by the public, commercial and third sectors. “If we go on training disadvantaged people, including those with impairments, in a fragmented accessibility and usability ecology, to acquire what are called 'basic' skills in accessing and processing information, we will doom them to be poor.” Kevin's speech preceded the giving of the 2008 Jodi Awards. The awards are for museums, galleries, libraries, archives and heritage venues that use technology to provide access to collections and learning for disabled people, e.g. websites, interactive objects, audio-guides, PDAs and virtual reality shows. The awards, sponsored by RNIB and supported by the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council, were presented by Kevin Carey and preceded by an introduction from Andy Minnion, Director of the Rix Centre. Lord Low, Chair of RNIB, was present at the ceremony, as were representatives from many shortlisted museums and galleries. Named in memory of Jodi Mattes (1973-2001), who worked as part of the British Museum's web team and later at the RNIB, the awards honour Jodi's efforts to ensure the museum's COMPASS website was as accessible as possible. Jodi's parents, Harry and Esther Mattes, and sister Sara, attended the award ceremony. 2008 Jodi Awards - the winners 1. Excellence for people with a learning disability, in association with the Rix Centre, London. Outside In Pathways, for their project in which a group of people with learning disabilities made films using digital technology at the V&A museum, London. 2. Excellence in accessible digital media The National Trust, for their virtual tour pilot project. 12 virtual tours were developed, and four more are in production. All this from a national charity that involved disabled people in making accessible media that could genuinely and substantially improve the experiences of disabled visitors. http://www.corvidae.co.uk/panoramas/homewood-flash/living.html 3. Excellence with a low budget - Web accessibility In this category, a COMMENDATION was awarded to the Thackray Museum in Leeds, and their website redevelopment project. The museum consulted young visually impaired people from Henshaws College in York and incorporated a range of their recommendations into the design. http://www.thackraymuseum.org 4. Excellence in Web accessibility Awarded to the British Museum for its BSL Schools Web Project In this project young deaf people produced signed curriculum resources for young deaf people, working with Frank Barnes School and media company Remark. This outstanding project is well thought out, carefully framed and cleanly presented, bringing together a creative and appropriate mix of users, artists and designers with expertise in the area of BSL. http://www.britishmuseum.org/learning/schools_and_teachers/school_projects/bsl_project.aspx 5. Excellence in accessible digital media on a low budget The Jodi judges have decided not to award a prize for accessible digital media excellence on a low budget this year. For more info, contact Jon Pratty, 07739 287392 or jonnypratty@gmail.com posted 15.12.08

(CLG) National black role model launch - Hazel Blears

Top business men, journalists, servicemen, a fire-fighter, lawyers and media experts are amongst the twenty individuals being named in the first-ever national role model programme for Black boys and young Black men by Communities Secretary Hazel Blears on the 3rd December. Following a nationwide recruitment campaign, well over 200 applications from successful Black men across the country were received. The REACH panel comprising fashion designer and businessman Ozwald Boateng, entrepreneur and winner of the Apprentice Tim Campbell, founder and Director of Operation Black Vote Simon Woolley and Metropolitan Police Superintendent and founder of the Black Police association Leroy Logan selected the final twenty role models to form the first national group of its kind - to help raise the aspirations and attainment of Black boys. posted 08.12.08 more information see: https://nds.coi.gov.uk/imagelibrary/detail.asp?MediaDetailsID=259232&HUserID=878,793,891,850,773,870,866,845,786,674,677,767,684,762,718,674,708,683,706,718,674

NI seeks to engage with older people through the Arts and MLAs

A new engagement strategy for older people will support work with regularly funded organisations in Northern Ireland. The Arts Council of Northern Ireland (ACNI) is developing the plan in light of government priorities. The announcement of the strategy follows the appointment of an Advocate for Older People by the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister. ACNI hopes to have an action plan in place by the end of this financial year, enabling work to begin in 2009/10. Working with Help the Aged, Age Concern and Age Sector Platform among others, ACNI is considering a range of interventions, including developing a skills bank, carrying out detailed research on barriers to engagement and working with arts organisations to provide increased opportunities. A spokesperson for ACNI told AP that “preliminary discussions suggest there is a compelling case to progress this project on a joint platform, as many engagement issues are shared by other service providers such as libraries, museums and life-long learning providers”. posted 8.12.08

Deadline 16 January for MLA grant applications

The final bidding phase of Their Past Your Future 2 (TPYF2) launched on 3 November 2008. The Big Lottery funded programme is open to all museums, libraries and archives in England . Grants between £500 and £10,000 are available for venues to develop programmes, workshops, exhibitions and events that explore the ongoing legacy of 20th and 21st century conflict on people and places. The grants are designed to inspire inter-generational activities between younger and older people under the themes of remembrance and commemoration; identity; reconciliation; citizenship; diversity; asylum; conflict resolution and peacekeeping. The deadline for applications is the 16th January 2009. To apply and for further information visit http://www.mla.gov.uk/aboutus/grants posted 08.12.08

Simon Jenkins speaks out for National Trust

n his first major interview since being appointed Chairman of the National Trust, Sir Simon Jenkins claims that overbearing health and safety rule obstruct his efforts to offer visitors an insight into what it would be like to live in some of the Trust’s properties. He calls for a new offensive to challenge the climate of risk aversion in Britain. He relates a recent visit to the Cambrian Mountains where he found a party of school boys were not allowed to swim in the lake nor venture further than 100 yards in front of the teacher. He is reported as ordering the Trust to shake off its ‘elitist’ image and for the houses to be less ‘samey’. He has asked Trust managers to take on more risks, make their properties more individual and encourage greater use by local people. ‘I have joked’ he said ‘ that I will leave in my will enough money to cover the cost of a Labrador and a child’s pushchair to put in the front of every National Trust house to make it look lived in’. On a national scale, Sir Simon, who founded the Railway Heritage Trust, and was a founder member of SAVE Britain’s Heritage and the Thirties Society is ready to speak out over controversial developments such as the expansions of Heathrow and Stansted, and any other threat to the countryside. For the full account and leading article see http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/environment/article5209571.ece; the feature on Polesden Lacey http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/environment/article5209577.ece; and the leading article from the same day: http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/leading_article/article5208952.ece posted 01.12.08 his news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

Responses to Big Lottery Fund consultation

Community and voluntary organisations should be the only recipients of Big Lottery Fund money, charity umbrella groups have claimed. In a consultation about future funding launched yesterday, the BLF is asking whether it should extend its current commitment to give 60 to 70 per cent of its money to the voluntary sector, which ends in 2012. In a response to the consultation called Big Thinking, four national umbrella bodies – the NCVO, Nicva, SCVO and WCVA – have demanded a 100 per cent financial commitment to the sector. Stuart Etherington, Chief Executive of the NCVO, said: ‘In the current economic turbulence, Big Lottery Fund money will be a vital source of support to enable the sector to weather these rocky times. This means putting funding of the sector even more at the heart of what the Big Lottery Fund does.’ Peter Wanless, Chief Executive of the Big Lottery Fund, said other institutions such as schools could also have a claim on the money. ‘The voluntary sector is hugely important to us,’ he said. ‘But we need to debate whether 100 per cent of our spending should go there. We've asked the question and we'll have to see what people say.’ To view the full article visit http://www.thirdsector.co.uk/channels/Policy/Article/862809/Big-Lottery-Fund-should-exclusive-sector/ posted 01.12.08 This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

Secret of My Heart: opera's leap of faith in the homeless

From the Daily Telegraph: Eighty singers who have all lived rough are to perform Allegri's 'Miserere' at the Festival Hall. Jasper Rees reports If there is an art form that would seem to have the least to do with - and indeed for - society's underclass, there's just the one candidate. Opera for the homeless is an almost perfect working example of an oxymoron, two words which don't look right together. And yet the Festival Hall on London's Southbank will soon play host to a performance of Allegri's Miserere, incorporating the voices of 80 singers who, at some point in their lives, have not had a roof over their head. for more information see: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/arts/main.jhtml?view=DETAILS&grid=&xml=/arts/2008/11/24/btheart124.xml posted 27.11.08

Director's anger over comedy film's 'disability' warning

FROM THE INDEPENDENT: By Paul Bignell Sunday, 16 November 2008 Disabled actors last night condemned a move by British film censors to label a new film featuring a disabled cast with a warning stating that the film contains "disability themes". Special People, a British, feature-length film with a cast of mainly disabled actors playing disabled characters, was given the label by the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) along with a 12A rating. The director, Justin Edgar, is angry about the "unnecessary" labelling. "I was really surprised to get this certificate," he said. "I couldn't understand why a film censor thought it was necessary to make people aware that the film had disabled people in it." more information see: http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/news/directors-anger-over-comedy-films-disability-warning-1020484.html posted 27.11.08

Access and excellence - Boris Johnson outlines key priorities for culture to 2012

London Mayor Boris Johnson has outlined his cultural plan for the capital that includes outdoor film screenings and a touring jazz festival. Johnson wants to extend the enjoyment of art, music and theatre to all of London's boroughs from the most affluent to the least well-off. He has pledged to cut red rape for smaller arts organisations, improve music and art education and use the 2012 Olympics to create "a cultural legacy" for all Londoners through projects such as the art commissions which will be displayed in the Olympic Park. This proposal is open to consultation, all comments to be received by Friday 30th January. For more information see: http://www.london.gov.uk/mayor/culture/cultural-metropolis/ posted 27.11.08

Booktouch and Bookshine

http://www.bookstart.co.uk/Parents-Booktouch and http://www.bookstart.org.uk/Scheme-Coordinators/Coordinator-Packs/Bookshine_sch Just a reminder about these two additional Bookstart promotions: * Booktouch aims to get blind and partially sighted babies and toddlers 'bookstarted'. Booktouch packs are free to all schemes and are available free to parents or carers of blind or partially sighted children up to (and including) the age of four. Packs contain two specially chosen touch and feel books. * Bookshine aims to help deaf babies and toddlers to get 'bookstarted'. A Bookshine pack is available free to parents or carers of deaf children up to (and including) the age of four. Packs contain two specially chosen books designed to stimulate children's senses, including a touch and feel book and a nursery rhyme book featuring BSL signs. posted 20.11.08 This news item came from John Vincent at Network News http://www.seapn.org.uk/

Poverty in your area

(Source: LGA analysis and research bulletin, October 2008) The charity, End Child Poverty, has created a series of maps covering England, Scotland and Wales, using tax credit data to give the percentage of children on low incomes in local authorities and constituencies. There is also a table showing the Top 20 parliamentary constituencies with the highest levels of child poverty across the UK. for more information see: http://www.endchildpoverty.org.uk/why-end-child-poverty/poverty-in-your-area posted 20.11.08 This news item came from John Vincent at Network News http://www.seapn.org.uk/

No one left out: communities end rough sleeping

This is a 15-point action plan which has been developed with leading rough sleeping charities. The plan will call on communities to get more involved in supporting those in their area at risk of rough sleeping, to help stop the flow onto the streets, ensuring that the right resources reach the right people at the right time. The key recommendations are: “Homeless people who sleep rough must have a greater voice and choice in services. We want to empower them and the communities they live in so they can make the most of the help and goodwill that is available. So we will: · promote knowledge of local services and resources that can address rough sleeping and social isolation · develop a community training programme to build capacity and skills so that local people can support isolated people to avoid sleeping rough · promote more personalised services including testing individual budgets to increase the control people have over the services they need; and · drive forward user involvement in services and active citizenship among people with experience of rough sleeping, including supporting peer advocacy to reduce evictions from hostels.” [p8] for more information see: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/housing/pdf/endingroughsleeping posted 20.11.08 This news item came from John Vincent at Network News http://www.seapn.org.uk/

Community cohesion one-stop shop portal launched

The Institute of Community Cohesion has just launched the first phase of its one-stop shop, including a very useful summary of the development of community cohesion in the UK, with links to the key reports and documents. http://www.cohesioninstitute.org.uk/Pages/default.aspx posted 20.11.08 This news item came from John Vincent at Network News http://www.seapn.org.uk/

ONLINE COURSE PROVIDES UNDERSTANDING OF SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES

Following a successful pilot earlier this year, the Academy for Sustainable Communities (ASC) has embarked on the national roll out of a new course. In a Nutshell brings together built environment professionals, community workers and volunteers to develop their knowledge about how to create and manage sustainable communities. The free online course consists of five facilitated workshops and will run in December 2008, January, February and March 2009. It has been designed to help participants understand: · the term ‘sustainable communities’ and the different components that contribute towards sustainable communities; · current national and regional policy; · the roles, responsibilities and skills of the various organisations and individuals responsible for delivery; · the core professions involved in delivery and the wider stakeholders; · regeneration issues linked to sustainable communities; and · how to put theory into practice. The course is facilitated by an experienced tutor who will provide advice and guidance. The workshops include a range of learning materials, participant activities and discussion forums to encourage people to share ideas, experiences and knowledge. Rob Jackson, research and monitoring officer at Shepway District Council who took part in the pilot said: “The course was highly informative, particularly around the legislative and political frameworks linked to sustainable communities and introduced me to new sources of information that I now use regularly. The discussion forums took learning to a new level, providing an invaluable platform to debate the very latest issues and challenges we face like the credit crunch and review examples of best practice with health workers, council employees, students and community workers. Amanda Lane, learning and resources manager at ASC said: “This is an entry-level route course, aimed at people who are entering sustainable communities professions and want to develop their knowledge of the sector. The online facilitated workshops offer a real opportunity for people to work with and learn from professionals and trainers involved in the delivery of the sustainable communities agenda." To book a place on the course, please contact Kelly Brewell on 0113 394 4574 or email k.brewell@ascskills.org.uk

CELEBRATE INSPIRATIONAL ADULT LEARNERS - NOMINATE THEM FOR AN AWARD

Make sure the remarkable achievements of adult learners are given the recognition they deserve by nominating them for the Adult Learners’ Week Awards 2009. Every year the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE) receives over 1,000 nominations from colleges, businesses, adult education providers, museums, libraries and elsewhere and aims to make its 18th Adult Learners’ Week the most successful yet. The awards for Adult Learners’ Week (9th – 15th May 2009) illustrate the extraordinary achievements, of adult learners – young, old and in all their diversity. They are awarded for their inspirational learning journeys, for the way they have coped with challenges and for the way they have embraced learning to help them transform their lives and often other people’s lives as well. Winning an award as a result of being nominated, can be an encouraging and life changing experience for learners itself. Some winners of the 2008 awards share their thoughts on how much winning meant to them: Paul Lee, aged 36, from Oldham, won an award for his dramatic journey from bricklayer to Cambridge University student. Paul says, “Going back to learning helped me feel like my old self again and winning the actual award helped me to get my confidence back. I think the recognition I earned was the most important step in becoming confident, regardless of my learning results, as great as they have been.” Sight Service – a group of visually impaired people from South Shields – were awarded for succeeding in their informal art classes and progressing to an accredited art course. Their nominator Sue Taylor says, “Winning the award has inspired our learners to want to achieve even greater things next year and has also been an inspiration to several other visually impaired groups”. She continues, “The individual group members who represented the rest of the group at the national award ceremony in London, were so proud to be representing not only their own group but so many other similar blind groups across the country. They were so happy to have been able to achieve things they all had previously thought were totally unachievable.” John McAnuff, aged 72, from Tottenham, won an award for taking a course in Jamaican Language and Culture and being inspired to spread awareness of his roots by writing, ‘The New Jumiekan Langwij Alfabet Song’. John says, “Winning this award has been a really valuable step in my life and the recognition encourages you like a new surge of energy”. He continues, “In our media driven society the publicity I got put my talents in the spotlight and opened doors for me. I even got to meet my local MP and he asked me what he could do for me, it was a rare opportunity.” YMCA Fitness Industry Training, in London, were awarded for helping black and minority ethnic women find work in the fitness industry. YMCAfit Executive Director Robin Gargrave says, “Winning was a real honour. It confirmed our belief in the value of what we are trying to achieve as an organisation and gave the whole staff a massive boost. The award is viewed with pride by everyone at YMCAfit as recognition of our hard work and commitment to providing high quality learning opportunities for all. I commend the Adult Learner Awards to all education and training providers”. Clare Harris, aged 35, from Halesowen, was recognised for her transformation from school cleaner to school-teacher. Clare says, “Winning the award has been a great experience and it has encouraged me to ensure I continue with my learning and achieve more.” Kamy Basra, Campaigns Officer at NIACE, said, “Being nominated for an Adult Learners’ Week award is another way of building your learners’ confidence and showing them how remarkable you think their learning achievements have been. And if they’re lucky enough to win an award then they will act as an inspirational role model to encourage thousands of others to take up learning.” She continued, “For our 18th Adult Learners’ Week Awards we would like to give even more remarkable learners the chance to shine and be celebrated. If you know someone whose learning journey deserves recognition and could inspire others to have a go, then nominate them for an Adult Learners’ Week Award. We also present awards to families, groups and organisations whose learning has transformed lives for the better.” To nominate, visit www.alw.org.uk/nominate where you can download forms or request a paper form - nominations can be submitted online or returned by post. Additional nominations forms can be ordered at www.niace.org.uk/alw/2009/order-nomination-forms.htm. The closing date for nominations in England is Wednesday 21st January 2009 (by 5pm). Nomination forms are also available on audiocassette and in other languages from the NIACE Campaigns Team. For your form telephone 0116 204 4200, or email alw@niace.org.uk.

Changes at DCMS, DCLG and DCSF

Andrew Vaughan has been appointed the new Head of Museums at DCMS, following the departure of Ben Cowell. Andrew is currently Head of Housing Market Renewal and Housing Growth Programmes at DCLG, prior to which he was Private Secretary to Peter Housden, Permanent Secretary at DCLG, and will take up post on 18 November. Stephen Carter, the Prime Minister's former Chief of Strategy, and previous Chief Executive of OfCom, has been appointed as Minister for Communications, Technology and Broadcasting, working jointly for DCMS and the Department for Business, Enterprise & Regulatory Reform. Jane Cooper has been appointed Director of Communications at DCMS. Jane was previously leading communications at DCSF as interim Director of Communications since January 2008. She moved to DCSF from Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs and has previously held senior communications positions in both the private and third sectors. For more information visit http://www.culture.gov.uk/reference_library/media_releases/5580.aspx posted 20.11.08 This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

Arts Council Creates new independent organisation

Creative Partnerships - Arts Council England's successful creativity programme for schools - is set to become an independent organisation. The programme, which develops young people's creativity, has been developed and managed by Arts Council England since it began in 2002. Due to the huge success of Creative Partnerships the Arts Council has decided that its future is best delivered through a new independent organisation - Creativity, Culture and Education (CCE). Creative Partnerships has already worked with more than 750,000 young people and works intensively with 2,000 schools across England. Independent studies show that schools that work with Creative Partnerships improve their GCSE results faster, and that the scheme engages parents in their children's learning. CCE will receive more than £75 million from Arts Council England between April 2009 - March 2011, the largest single grant in that two year period. The new organisation will have its headquarters in Newcastle, where the cultural renaissance of the North East - led by such organisations as The Sage Gateshead, Customs House, Tyne and Wear Museums, Live Theatre, BALTIC and MIMA has created the perfect environment for the new national agency to grow. For more information visit http://www.creativitycultureeducation.org/ posted 20.11.08 This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

A collective vision for rural Britain in 2020

What will rural Britain look like in 2020? Simon Berry, Chief Executive of ruralnet|uk wants to know and is taking an innovative approach to find out by asking people to contribute their thoughts and ideas online at a new website. Kicking off the process at the joint ruralnet|uk and Action for Market Towns conference in early October, Berry collected 'personal visions' from over 200 delegates and is now actively encouraging more people to contribute to this 'collective vision for rural Britain'. To find out more about this experiment in more detail or read through the visions to date, please visit http://2020vision.ruralnet.org.uk/ posted 20.11.08 This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

Reach Moves into the Final Stages of the Search for Role Models to Inspire Black Boys

The final 51 REACH role model candidates are being put through their paces this week as the final stage of the recruitment process for the REACH role model group kicks off........ The creation of the first ever Black Boy's National Role Model programme is part of a package of measures put together to help raise the aspirations and attainment of today's young Black men. As well as the national role model group the Government is currently taking forward a range of measures aimed at boosting the aspirations and attainment of Black boys and young Black men. £1 million has been made available to support these activities in their first year. The REACH report highlighted a number of barriers preventing some Black boys from fulfilling their full potential and recommended that these be tackled together to bring about the changes that are needed. The REACH Panel, comprising fashion designer and businessman Ozwald Boateng, entrepreneur Tim Campbell, founder and Director of Operation Black Vote Simon Woolley and Metropolitan Police Superintendent Leroy Logan are interviewing all 51 remaining candidates. The interview process will assess the candidates on a range of factors including their ability to inspire and lead others, to connect with young black boys, their presentation and communication skills, and their determination, drive and commitment to the REACH agenda. posted 20.11.08

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(DCSF) Tomorrow's business moguls get the chance to impress at live event

Government funds support youth ambitions Hackney's budding young entrepreneurs have the chance to win £3,000 to set up their own business at a live event based on TV's Dragons' Den concept. Mini Mogul, arranged and run by young people with support from the Government's Youth Opportunity Fund, will give young entrepreneurs aged between 13 and 19 (or up to 25 for those with learning disabilities) the opportunity to pitch their business ideas to a panel of adjudicators. Presented by the Youth Skills Network, which helps young people reach their career potential, the event takes place on the evening of 20 November, at the Ocean club in Hackney's Mare Street. There will be a surprise celebrity guest, food and drink, and the Dragon's Den style pitches will be filmed in front of a live audience posted 20.11.08

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HEALEY – WELLBEING POWER IS FORGOTTEN TOOL IN TOUGH ECONOMIC TIMES

Councils have not used a legal power that could help their area ride out tough economic times, the Government warned today. Local Government Minister John Healey, in a letter to council chiefs, urged them to consider using this “wellbeing power” to support their communities during the current economic climate. New research published today highlights the low take-up of this legal power. The wellbeing power is a general power of competence permitting councils to do anything except raise tax to promote the economic, social and environmental wellbeing of their area. posted 20.11.08

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Heritage Counts 2008: the annual figures

As well as this year's focus on climate change, Heritage Counts also gives us the definitive heritage statistics. Now in its seventh year, it records, amongst many other categories, the number of heritage assets at risk, of applications for listed building consents, the numbers employed in museum and conservator services and - not least - trends in public funding for the heritage. This year, it notes that funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund declined by 28% and English Heritage grants by 27% in real terms between 2002/03 and 2007/08. This amounts to a total reduction in real terms of £100 million. Heritage Lottery Fund funding will fall by a further 43% in real terms between 2007/08 and 2012/13. It also covers data on participation through visiting memberships, and education. This year's report notes a significant increase in heritage participation among all adults (69.5% to 71.1%), black and ethnic minorities (50.0% to 54.6%) and people with limiting disabilities or illness (58.4% to 61.5%) between 2005 and 2007. Heritage Counts 2008 and the nine regional publications can be found at http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/hc/ posted 12.11.08 This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

Green place ‘poverty’ affects 1 in 4 in urban areas

One in four people living in urban areas suffer from ‘green place poverty’, according to new research for the National Trust. The Trust says that the survey shows that whilst regular contact with the natural world is hugely important to everyone’s quality of life, many people are missing it in their daily lives. Across England, Wales and Northern Ireland one in eight have suffer from green place poverty, meaning they have access to two or fewer green spaces. The top reasons given for visiting open spaces were to experience fresh air and space, for relaxation and to see wildlife. The Trust commissioned the research following debate launched at 2007 AGM on whether we should be doing more to protect green places from development. The findings show that 94 per cent of people think it is a good idea for the National Trust to get more involved in local green places. For more information visit: http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-global/w-news/w-latest_news/w-news-green_places_poverty.htm posted 12.11.08 This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

Young People ask MPs ‘Are you listening?

Young people from across the nation ascended on Westminster to tell an audience of 60 MPs and Ministers in the House of Commons what it really means to be a young British person in 2008. Young people from 17 cities united in their appeal to politicians and other opinion formers to listen to how they wish to be perceived as young British adults and what matters to them. They talked about their experiences in the Portrait of a Nation project and shared what makes the places they call home so special. The 17 youth ambassadors were representing their city and more than 3000 young people who have taken part in the two-year long Portrait of a Nation project, backed by Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and Liverpool Culture Company. The biggest youth project of its kind in the UK, Portrait of a Nation, has challenged young people to explore the impact their cultural roots have had on their identity and their hopes for the future as young British adults. Their journey will culminate in Liverpool, European Capital of Culture in December, where they will share their stories about their identity, their cities and fuel the debate, 'Who Do We Want to Be?’ For more information visit http://www.portraitofanation.net/ posted 12.11.08 This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

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New Study dispels "Lazy Teens" image

We want more to do' say seven in ten teenagers Poll results released today confirm that teenagers have had enough of being labelled as lazy and want the opportunity to do more positive things in their free time. More than 3,500 16 to 19 year olds - including some from Manchester and Liverpool - were quizzed about their free time as part of the nationwide Teen Talk survey. The poll was conducted on behalf of the Department for Children Schools and Families (DCSF) by mobile network Blyk and is believed to be the largest ever SMS-based poll of teenagers' free time habits. It found that far from wanting to spend their evenings and weekends just hanging out, almost three quarters (72 per cent) of today's teens would rather be involved in positive activities1 such as football, dance, going to the gym, music and martial arts. Many teenagers are also keen to participate in youth groups and community volunteering. for more information see: We want more to do' say seven in ten teenagers Poll results released today confirm that teenagers have had enough of being labelled as lazy and want the opportunity to do more positive things in their free time. More than 3,500 16 to 19 year olds - including some from Manchester and Liverpool - were quizzed about their free time as part of the nationwide Teen Talk survey. The poll was conducted on behalf of the Department for Children Schools and Families (DCSF) by mobile network Blyk and is believed to be the largest ever SMS-based poll of teenagers' free time habits. It found that far from wanting to spend their evenings and weekends just hanging out, almost three quarters (72 per cent) of today's teens would rather be involved in positive activities1 such as football, dance, going to the gym, music and martial arts. Many teenagers are also keen to participate in youth groups and community volunteering. For more information see https://nds.coi.gov.uk/imagelibrary/detail.asp?MediaDetailsID=255801&HUserID=878,793,891,850,773,870,866,845,786,674,677,767,684,762,718,674,708,683,706,718,674 posted 7.11.08

MLA invites new grant applications for Their Past Your Future

The final bidding phase of Their Past Your Future 2 (TPYF2) launched on 3 November 2008. The Big Lottery funded programme is open to all museums, libraries and archives in England . Grants between £500 and £10,000 are available for venues to develop programmes, workshops, exhibitions and events that explore the ongoing legacy of 20th and 21st century conflict on people and places. The grants are designed to inspire inter-generational activities between younger and older people under the themes of remembrance and commemoration; identity; reconciliation; citizenship; diversity; asylum; conflict resolution and peacekeeping. The deadline for applications is the 16th January 2009. for more information see: http://www.mla.gov.uk/aboutus/grants

(DCSF) Disability champion calls for Liverpool teens to take action!

A teenage champion of disability issues has urged all young people in Merseyside to apply for Government grants to organise exciting activities in their local community. Jemma Towey, from Walton, helped to arrange arts and crafts projects and DJ workshops for other disabled teenagers at Clubmoor Youth Centre and Harthill Youth Centre in Wavertree through the Splice Project, a scheme which challenges preconceptions of disabilities. for more information see: https://nds.coi.gov.uk/imagelibrary/detail.asp?MediaDetailsID=255178&HUserID=878,793,891,850,773,870,866,845,786,674,677,767,684,762,718,674,708,683,706,718,674

posted 22.10.08

Driving into Maritime Archaeology

HLF grant enables HWTMA to become ‘driving force’ in heritage outreach with a maritime archaeology activity van. Archaeologists at Hampshire and Wight Trust for Maritime Archaeology are excited to announce they have received over a third of a million pounds to promote greater public involvement in maritime archaeology. This exciting three year project will focus around the creation of a community outreach van which will be furnished with interactive displays, information and hands on activities to make learning about maritime heritage possible for all the community. For more information contact: http://www.hwtma.org.uk/education/index.htm posted 20.10.08

Blears invites ideas to improve local communities

Communities Secretary Hazel Blears has called on councils to work closely with their residents to unearth new and innovative ideas to improve their local area and make places in which people want to live, work and raise a family. As part of the Sustainable Communities Act, the Secretary of State has invited local authorities to send in proposals on what central government can do to help improve the economic, social or environmental well-being of their local areas. The innovations put forward could provide local solutions to a variety of issues. For example, Communities could make proposals to: tackle climate change at a local level - cutting energy consumption or creating more green areas for communities to cultivate; strengthen the local economy - finding ways in which to support local businesses and producers and increase social inclusion, including an increase in involvement in local democracy. For more information visit http://www.communities.gov.uk/news/corporate/9931 posted 20.10.08 This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

Taking Part: England's survey of culture, leisure and sport

Data from 2007 of the Taking Part child survey produced by DCMS were released on 2 October. The Taking Part survey collects data about engagement and non-engagement in culture, leisure and sport. The survey includes a child interview for those households containing at least one child aged 11 to 15. In 2007, 2,454 interviews were conducted with children in this age group. The summary report begins by looking at what children do in their spare time, and cross-sector engagement. It then presents selected findings from each cultural and sporting sector in turn, including the overall engagement rate in and out of school lessons and the frequency of engagement. Finally it looks at variations by three population sub-groups – gender, ethnicity and disability status. Also published are a series of accompanying workbooks including one on the historic environment. The workbooks compare Taking Part child data from the 2006 and 2007 surveys, and highlight any statistically significant changes. Amongst the key finding the report highlights that spending time with friends, watching television and listening to music were the three main activities children reported doing in their free time. Of all activities, spending time with friends, sports activities and playing computer games were given as the most enjoyable. Virtually all children had engaged in at least one form of cultural or sporting opportunity during the past 12 months. Overall, child engagement remained consistent between 2006 and 2007. There were, however, some statistically significant differences within population sub-groups: Boys were significantly less likely than girls to have attended arts events, participated in arts activities and visited libraries, but more likely to have participated in an active sport. Children from White ethnic backgrounds were more likely than those from Black or minority ethnic backgrounds to have visited historic environment sites, but less likely to have visited libraries. For more information visit http://www.culture.gov.uk/reference_library/publications/5481.aspx posted 20.10.08 This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

Heritage Link’s Embracing Difference Website Launched

The new Embracing Difference website reports on Heritage Link’s two year diversity programme which came to an end in August. The programme ran across five regions, bringing together smaller voluntary heritage and community groups, building confidence in working together to broaden their audiences. It encouraged creativity, informal learning, networking and mutual understanding. Five projects were developed and supported as exemplars. Embracing Difference funded by English Heritage, has been a unique and groundbreaking achievement: hugely creative yet very practical. It has fulfilled one of Heritage Link’s key objectives to increase the capacity of member organisations. This programme has challenged us all to extend our commitment to diversity and shown the many innovative and different ways in which it can be done. The website is designed to help heritage organisations and community groups connect to each other and to provide support for heritage projects which involve, inspire and excite people. Visit the new site at: http://www.heritagelink.org.uk/diversity/ posted 20.10.08. This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

(DCMS) Andy Burnham launches debate on the future of libraries - putting them at the very heart of communities

In an online world, libraries should - more than ever - be at the very heart of our communities, Culture Secretary Andy Burnham said today, as he launched a modernisation review of England's public library service. Speaking at the PLA Conference in Liverpool, Mr Burnham reiterated the value of the public library service in the digital era, and urged them to embrace their role as interesting, innovative places for the whole community. posted 13.10.08 for more information see

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Open to All: new training for museums and galleries

A training package designed to encourage museums and galleries to involve people with experience of mental health problems has been commissioned by a partnership of NSIP, the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council, the V&A, Tate Modern, The Wallace Collection and Portugal Prints, and developed by the University of Nottingham, Nottinghamshire County Teaching PCT and the Lost Artists Club. It aims to help build the bridges needed between people with mental health problems, museums and galleries and the wider community. posted 08.10.08 For more information and resources see the NSIP website: http://www.socialinclusion.org.uk/work_areas/index.php?subid=109

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'Artistic expression' helpful for mental health

A research team, led by Jenny Secker, Professor of Mental Health at Anglia Ruskin University and the South Essex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, has published a report on mental health, social inclusion and the arts. Collaborating with the project were senior researchers from University of Central Lancashire (UCLan). The findings from the report were made public at a launch based at the Tate Modern in London. For more information and report conclusion see DOC below. Download copy of full report as PDF below. posted 30.09.08

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Time off to take part - new opportunities for community volunteers

Communities Secretary Hazel Blears will this week outline plans to make it easier for more people, from all walks of life, to volunteer for key roles in their local community. Ms Blears wants to modernise the list of activities that entitle people to time off from work to better reflect the kind of roles available and encourage more people to participate - also helping to widen the pool of skills, expertise and experience available. Today's announcement marks the start of a new consultation flowing from the White Paper, Communities in control: real people, real power. posted 30.09.08

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Garden Of Opportunity For People With Learning Disabilities

A new horticulture centre that will offer training and work opportunities for people with learning difficulties has been officially opened by gardening expert Terry Walton. Mr Walton, the allotmenteer from Radio Two’s Jeremy Vine Show, was on hand to launch the facility in Talygarn, Rhondda Cynon Taff, which has been funded by a £150,184 grant from the Big Lottery Fund. posted 30.09.08

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Free theatre tickets for young people

A new scheme to encourage young people to experience live theatre was unveiled today by Culture Secretary Andy Burnham. A £2.5 million programme - funded by Arts Council England, who will manage the scheme - will be focused on some 95 venues all over England. Each will offer a proportion of the tickets for arts productions on the same night every week - free - to anyone under 26 years old.

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Volunteering To Bring About Culture Of Change

A new pilot initiative is to promote volunteering with cultural organisations as a way to help the long-term unemployed get back into work. The £1.4 million North East Volunteer Programme will give unemployed people the opportunity to get involved with museums, theatre groups and a host of other cultural and sporting organisations in a bid to learn new skills and gain the confidence they need to find work. for more information see: http://www.onenortheast.co.uk/page/news/article.cfm?articleId=3300

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WREN Small Grant Scheme

The WREN Small Grants Scheme has been established to assist applicants looking for funding for small projects that can make a real difference to a local community. Funding applications between £2,000 and £15,000 will be considered with a total project cost under £50,000 and the project must be within 10 miles of a Waste Recycling Group landfill site. Types of projects which will be considered for the Small Grant Scheme include village halls, community centres, public parks, museums and playgrounds. For a full list of criteria please visit www.wren.org.uk/how-to-apply/small-grants posted 12.09.08 This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

£130m grassroots grants scheme opens its doors to small local voluntary and community groups

The Government’s £130million Grassroots Grants scheme has declared itself open for business today and is calling on small local voluntary and community groups to come forward and get their hands on essential funding. The programme, funded by the Office of The Third Sector and administered by the Community Development Foundation, offers grants of between £250 and £5,000 to support activities that lie right at the heart of our local communities. Within the programme, the Government has set aside a £50million pot from which it will match endowment investments from businesses. This offers businesses the chance to contribute directly to supporting and sustaining the communities in which they operate. To keep the process as simple and easy as possible for applicants, the money is being distributed directly through local funders – slightly larger local organisations already based in the community and selected because they are familiar with the needs and causes in each area. Details of the local funders can be found on the http://www.cdf.org.uk/bfora/systems/xmlviewer/default.asp?arg=DS_CDF_TECHART_23/_page.xsl/27&xsl_arg=//BF%5FCDF%5FPRA%5FGRT/&xsl_argx=3 or by calling the Grassroots Grants helpline on 01223 400 331. posted 12.09.08 This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

Listing of 25 historic buildings amended to highlight their links to slavery and its abolition

Speaking on the UNESCO International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition, Margaret Hodge, Culture Minister has announced new protection for four historic buildings and monuments linked to the slave trade, and upgrades and amendments for 21 others. The four new listings are in Watford, Milton Keynes, Hackney and Windermere, and the listings of another four - in Bristol, Camden Town, Stratford-on-Avon and Kingston-upon-Thames - have been upgraded. The remaining 17 buildings have had their listing descriptions amended to ensure their connection with the slave trade and special historic interest is adequately reflected. For more information visit http://www.culture.gov.uk/reference_library/media_releases/5404.aspx posted 12.09.08 This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

Heritage takes its place in the Cultural Olympiad

When the bid for the London 2012 Games was short on references to heritage, built or natural environment in the Cultural Olympiad, it illustrated how the visual and performing arts could have dominated the perception of culture in the UK. Heritage Link's mission to redress the balance bore fruit when at the press launch of the Cultural Olympiad on 4th September, the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) announced its full programme, naming Heritage Link as a partner and its project Discovering Places as one of the major projects. Discovering Places. It takes its place alongside the other programmes: Artists Taking the Lead, which challenges artists to lead a celebration of excellence, diversity, innovation and multiculturalism; Sounds, led by the BBC, to celebrate music as a universal language in today’s multicultural and multi-faith UK; Somwhereto, empowering young people to access spaces for their own activities; Stories of the World, celebrating the UK’s vast range of museums; Film Nation, facilitating young people to make and deliver stories digitally; Unlimited, the largest ever celebration of disability arts, culture and sport; the World Shakespeare Festival, to celebrate Shakespeare as international property centring on exchange and collaboration; Festival of Carnivals, a programme of five major carnival in London and other cities; and the World Cultural Festival, involving all the Cultural Olympiad partners including a world cultural summit. Through these initiatives, London 2012 aims to ‘put culture centre stage in the lead up the Games’. The Cultural Olympiad focuses on bringing together culture and sport, encouraging audiences to take part and animating public spaces. It will use culture and sport to promote environmental sustainability, health and well being. The programmes aim to encourage collaboration and innovation between communities and cultural sectors, promoting learning and skills by linking with educational programmes. For further information see http://www.london2012.com/get-involved/cultural-olympiad/index.php. posted 12.09.08 This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

Small grants for voluntary sector to hold good practice events

GoldStar is calling for applications for small grants to hold good practice events in the community. It welcomes applications from organisations (or groups of organisations), that can demonstrate specialist expertise in working with volunteers from one of more of the following target groups Black Asian Minority Ethnic (BAME), disabled people or people with limiting long term illnesses and people with no qualifications. The events should be to promote and share good practice amongst other organisations. Successful organisations will receive a small grant of between £100 and £3,000, and there is a ‘good practice events management toolkit’ available for free to everyone, which is full of hints and tips and templates to help organisations manage events. The closing date for the first wave of applications will be 29 August and the second on 26 September with successful organisations informed two weeks later. For more information visit http://www.goldstar.org.uk/SmallGrantsForEvents.htm l posted 01.09.08 This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

New London Events Volunteering Calendar

Voluntary and community arts groups and event organisers in London can now advertise online for people to help - as organisers, stewards, participants etc. - using the London Events Volunteering Calendar. The London Events Volunteering Calendar is part of a set of new online resources at for volunteers, event organisers, and organisations created by Greater London Volunteering to help prepare for 2012 and the Cultural Olympiad. To post information about an event or to browse the latest London events go to www.eventvolunteers.org.uk. For further information about the 2012 Volunteering Legacy project and the new online resources, contact Colin Bowen, 2012 Volunteering Legacy Officer, on 020 7953 7226 or email colin@glv.org.uk posted 01.09.08 This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

Heritage Open Days, 11-14 September

Coordinated nationally by the Civic Trust in partnership with English Heritage, Heritage Open Days welcomes around one million people take part in the Heritage Open Days programme. Each year in September thousands of buildings open their doors free of charge. Many of these places are normally closed to the public, while others usually charge for admission. To find out more visit www.heritageopendays.org or telephone 020 7539 7907. posted 01.09.08 This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

Dame Liz Forgan DBE/RSA Britishness Lecture, 9 September

In one of the forthcoming lectures planned by the Royal Society for the encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce (RSA), Dame Liz Forgan will address the identity issue. Liz Forgan, Chair of the Heritage Lottery Fund will argue that not only is a purely values-based concept of national identity too narrow to succeed, but that heritage has enormous power to bring communities together around disparate yet powerful ethnic links, provide a route into civic participation and foster a strong, inclusive national identity. For more information and to book a place at this event visit http://www.thersa.org/events/our-events/britishness-a-values-based-approach-is-not-enough Back posted 01.09.08 This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

Prince’s Trust Helps Communities Cash In

Young people from across the UK are invited to apply for funding of up to £5,000 to carry out activities that benefit their local communities. Sponsored by the Royal Bank of Scotland, the Prince’s Trust Community Cash Awards offers grants for people aged between 14 and 25 to carry out projects such as running a local magazine or holding sex education workshops in schools. www.princes-trust.org.uk/Main%20Site%20v2/14-30%20and%20need%20help/grants%20for%20community%20projects.asp posted 27.08.08

HLF recruiting now for Expert Panel

You may be interested to know that the Heritage Lottery Fund are currently recruiting for their Expert Panel. Details are on the Heritage Lottery Fund website at: http://www.hlf.org.uk/English/Articles/Projectinfocus.htm and the closing date for applications is 15 September 2008. They note that they welcome: "...applications from individuals of senior standing with substantial experience in their heritage sector. We also welcome individuals from the heritage sector who have expertise in learning, interpretation, training and skills; community participation, audience development and volunteering; environmental and financial sustainability. We are looking to appoint up to 11 Members". If you have any queries about this recruitment, please contact HLF directly using the contact details on the HLF webpage http://www.hlf.org.uk/English/Articles/Projectinfocus.htm . posted 27/08/08

Funding News: Foundation award for public libraries

A $1 million first prize is up for grabs in a global learning competition run by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Through their Global Libraries initiative, the foundation is looking to reward the public library that has best helped to connect their local community to information by providing free access to computers and the internet. Deadline for applications 31st Oct 2008. http://www.gatesfoundation.org/GlobalDevelopment/GlobalLibraries/AccessLearningAward/default.htm

Consultation on the new Equality Framework for Local Government

DeA have produced an updated version of the Framework (http://www.idea.gov.uk/idk/aio/8493290) for consultation – they want views from local authorities that have implemented the Equality Standard, and the deadline is 10 September 2008. This new version picks up particularly on changes in local demography (including migration), and simplifies the process, whilst also broadening the definitions “which includes the groups that enjoy legal protection against discrimination – race, gender, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation and age – but also encourages authorities to work with other groups who may face disadvantage and discrimination, such as white working class boys, looked after children and groups like Gypsies and Travellers whose needs have often been ignored.” This news item came from John Vincent at Network News http://www.seapn.org.uk/ uploaded 03.08.08

Attitudes to mental illness 2008: research report

Findings of the latest survey of attitudes towards mental illness among adults in England. Available to download from DOH website. http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/Publicationsandstatistics/Publications/PublicationsStatistics/DH_084478 This news item came from John Vincent at Network News http://www.seapn.org.uk/ uploaded 03.08.08

Local Wellbeing Conference

9 September, London Major, ground-breaking conference which will: * Explore how local government intervention in key service delivery and/or policy areas can contribute to greater public wellbeing * Determine the value to local government of prioritising wellbeing in service delivery and strategic planning * Showcase how to develop replicable practice to maximise wellbeing in the delivery of services. Good opportunity for input from the floor from MLAs. http://www.localwellbeing.org.uk/ This news item came from John Vincent at Network News http://www.seapn.org.uk/ uploaded 03.08.08

Sustainability and museums: your chance to make a difference

The MA is consulting its members about sustainability – including ‘social sustainability’ which raises issues about the relationships between museums and local communities and tensions between being ‘local’ at the same time as being a visitor attraction. The summary document and the full consultation report are both available. Comments to the MA by 1 September. http://www.museumsassociation.org/asset_arena/text/08/sustainability2008.pdf This news item came from John Vincent at Network News http://www.seapn.org.uk/ uploaded 03.08.08

POLICY: Local Priorities Website

DCLG have produced a database of local priorities (as set out in the Local Area Agreements), searchable by local area (so, for example, if you click on your region on the map, you can then choose your local Council from the drop-down menu, and see what has been agreed as their priorities). http://www.localpriorities.communities.gov.uk/ This news item came from John Vincent at Network News http://www.seapn.org.uk/ uploaded 03/08/08

youth work week 2008

The NYA has launched a new blog designed to stimulate and reflect activity around Youth Work Week 2008. The blog will include ideas for the week and provide the opportunity for people to add comments and ask questions around its theme of Promoting the Voice and Influence of Young People. There will be regular pieces from a variety of National Youth Agency staff reflecting on relevant issues and as the week approaches it will also carry details of local activities taking place and the linked event of Takeover Day on 7 November 2008. http://blogs.nya.org.uk/yww2008/

New Community Foundation Network Fund

The Community Foundation Network has unveiled a new fund offering philanthropists ‘all the advantages of a private charitable trust but without the administrative overheads’. Funded by Office of the Third Sector (OTS) and delivered by the Community Development Foundation (CDF), Grassroots Grants, which will run from 2008-2011, is divided into two parts: an £80m small grants fund for community organisations; and a £50m endowments challenge programme to enable local funders to generate additional donations on a matched basis and invest them in endowments. Details of the £50m challenge programme were first announced in April, when Hammersley said that it could potentially lead to the creation of over £1bn in endowment funds for local communities. It will be used to create a direct cash incentive for private philanthropists to give money to build up large cash funds on behalf of communities. The income from these funds is then managed by organisations, such as community foundations, to provide long-term, sustainable, financial support to a wide range of local community organisations and initiatives. For more information visit http://www.communityfoundations.org.uk/index.php his news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

Jodi Awards Invite Nominations

Nominations are now being sought for the Jodi Awards 2008. The awards are for museums, libraries, archives and heritage venues that use technology to provide access to collections and learning for disabled people, e.g. websites, interactive objects, audio-guides, personal digital assistants (PDA) and virtual reality shows. This year, for the first time, museums, libraries, archives and heritage venues in Scotland, as well as England and Wales, are eligible for the Jodi Awards, thanks to the support of Museums Galleries Scotland, the Scottish Libraries and Information Council and the Scottish Archives Network. The deadline for nominations is 3 October, and the awards will be announced on 5 December at the British Museum. For more information visit www.jodiawards.org.uk This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

Management matters: A national survey of volunteer management capacity

The results of the first national survey looking at the capacity of organisations to involve and manage volunteers have been published. The Institute for Volunteering Research spoke to over 1300 volunteer managers in organisations across England. As well as highlighting the dramatic under-investment in volunteer management, the survey explored the roles and positions of those who manage volunteers, it reports on the implementation of different volunteer management practices and issues that organisations face in recruiting and retaining volunteers. This is useful reading for the managers of volunteer managers and volunteer managers themselves. To view report visit http://www.ivr.org.uk This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

£70 Million For Building Communities

A £70 million fund designed to support and develop local organisations that provide a vital focal point for community life in England has been announced. for more information see: http://www.communities.gov.uk/news/corporate/886884 The Communitybuilders fund, a joint programme between the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) and the Office of the Third Sector, is the largest single initiative outlined in the Government’s “Communities in control: real people, real power” White Paper. for more informa

Hazel Blears launches search for role models to inspire Black boys

A major national search to recruit Black male role models gets underway today as Communities Secretary Hazel Blears calls for motivational Black and mixed heritage men to take a lead in inspiring the next generation of Black boys to achieve and succeed. The creation of the first ever Black Boys' National Role Model programme is part of a package of measures to help raise the aspirations and attainment of some of today's young Black men. Hazel Blears wants to encourage Black and mixed heritage men from all walks of life to come forward and play a part in lifting the sights of young Black boys. for more information see: https://nds.coi.gov.uk/imagelibrary/detail.asp?MediaDetailsID=246988&HUserID=878,793,891,850,773,870,866,845,786,674,677,767,684,762,718,674,708,683,706,718,674

Community Archives and Identities: website launch

The website/blog for the AHRC project 'Community Archives and Identities: Documenting and Sustaining Community Heritage', based at University College London is now live on: http://archivesandidentities.com/ The aim of the project is to investigate the role community archives play in supporting a sense of rootedness and identity amongst black and other minority ethnic communities in particular. The researchers are also interested in the role community archives play in raising awareness of these neglected histories in the wider public and challenging collective representations. How such projects can best be supported from both within and outside the mainstream archive sector is also a major theme of this research.

Tender Fund

The Tender Fund is a new Futurebuilders programme offering interest-free three year loans of between £3,000 and £50,000 to third sector organisations who need relatively small sums of money to help them tender successfully for specific public service delivery contracts. for more information see: http://www.futurebuilders-england.org.uk/content/Funding/TenderFund.aspx

Football Scheme Creating Chances For Communities

Superstars from the world of football are set to lend a helping hand to some of the country’s most deserving charities and local groups. Through Creating Chances, the Premier League’s flagship community programme, 120 grants of £4,000 are on offer, with each of the 20 clubs also nominating one of their players to visit the winning successful group in their area and join in with their daily activities. for more information see: http://www.premierleague.com/page/CreatingChances

DCMS) Dance moves centre stage for more young people thanks to new link between schools and the dance world

More than £100, 000 has been set aside to enable Youth Dance England to continue their work as part of the PE and Sport Strategy for Young People, providing greater dance opportunities for young people. The Dance Links Scheme enables more schools and specialist colleges to link with local dance schools and professionals to provide a variety of dance experiences for their pupils. for more information see: https://nds.coi.gov.uk/imagelibrary/detail.asp?MediaDetailsID=244881&HUserID=878,793,891,850,773,870,866,845,786,674,677,767,684,762,718,674,708,683,706,718,674

(DCMS) Margaret Hodge outlines measures to streamline cultural 'delivery' in the regions

For the first time, the Department's four key agencies in the regions - Arts Council England, Sport England, English Heritage and the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council - will have a duty to work together to jointly deliver a core set of shared priorities across the culture and sport agenda. These priorities include: * Regional Strategies; * Local Area Agreements; * Local Government commitment to culture and sport; * Place Shaping; and * LOCOG liaison on 2012 and the Cultural Olympiad. This alliance, working with partners in local authorities, the Regional Development Agencies, and other partner organisations, will agree top priorities and create joint plans of action for the culture and sport agendas for their region. For more information see: https://nds.coi.gov.uk/imagelibrary/detail.asp?MediaDetailsID=245868&HUserID=878,793,891,850,773,870,866,845,786,674,677,767,684,762,718,674,708,683,706,718,674

Access All Areas Project Coordinator

Catharine Bull has been appointed as the part-time Project Coordinator for Access All Areas, one of the major projects of the UK's four-year Cultural Olympiad. The project is being developed by Heritage Link for the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG), and it aims to bring a wide constituency into contact with heritage and the built environment throughout the UK. It will work people from across the sector to deliver activities and events to engage with a broad range of social groups, including young people. The project will start on a small scale in 2009, building to major events in 2011 and 2012. If you are interested in participating in Access All Areas, please email Catharine Bull at C.Bull@heritagelink.org.uk This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

Entries for the 50th Civic Trust Awards now open

he Civic Trust gives four categories of Award: awards, commendations, mentions and special awards. Awards are given to schemes that are of benefit culturally, socially or economically whilst making an outstanding contribution to the quality and appearance of the environment. Winners of Civic Trust Awards receive a certificate and a plaque for permanent display on the award-winning site. The closing date for entries is 2 September. All entries should be made online via www.civictrustawards.org.uk This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

New Fundraising Resource for Volunteers

The Institute of Fundraising has launched a new website aimed specifically at volunteer fundraisers. The Institute is the professional body that represents fundraisers in the UK and aims to support fundraisers, through leadership, representation, standard-setting and education to deliver excellent fundraising. The new website funded by the Office of the Third Sector and the Vodafone UK Foundation aims to assist both volunteer fundraisers and those fundraisers whose role it is to support and manage volunteers. To visit the site and for more information visit www.how2fundraise.org This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

Morgan Inquiry into Young Adult Volunteering

he Morgan Inquiry has produced a report which looks at the real reasons for more young people to volunteer, and the barriers that prevent young people from doing so. It has produced a series of practical recommendations for change. Baroness Morgan of Huyton, in conjunction with a cross-party panel, held an independent inquiry on the future of young adult volunteering between the ages of 18 and 24. Amongst those supporting the Morgan Inquiry is The Scout Association (TSA), in conjunction with the All-Party Parliamentary Scouting Group (APPSG). The Inquiry ran from early 2008 for six months concluding in June 2008. For more information visit http://www.morganinquiry.org.uk This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

Children’s Groups Urged: Help Yourselves!

Grants of up to £1,000 are available in the latest round of the Help Yourselves! Awards Scheme. The programme, provided by Save the Children in partnership with British Gas, supports community-based projects that can make a real difference to young people’s lives, particularly those who live in poverty. The latest funding round in Phase Three of the Awards has been launched, with an application deadline of 11 July. Upcoming rounds to be held later in 2008 are expected to offer larger grants of £5,000 and £10,000 to communities suffering from severe poverty. The scheme is open to all UK-based, fully constituted voluntary and community groups. Applications can come either from a young person linked to an organisation, or from an organisation that works with children and young people. Statutory organisations can also apply, providing they do not already receive funding to carry out the proposed activity. Eligible projects must have a positive impact on the circumstances and experiences of young people and fulfil the following criteria: * Improve the life chances for young people. * Are led by young people at all stages, including planning and delivery. * Benefit the most vulnerable and disadvantaged groups in society. Grants will usually be paid upfront in a single instalment. For more information about the programme, and to download application forms, visit the Help Yourselves! Award Scheme website http://www.helpyourselves.org.uk/helpyourselves/

Unprecedented investment in music education has the power to change children's lives

The government announced a radical new orchestral programme called In Harmony. Inspired by the hugely successful Venezuelan project El Sistema and chaired by world renowned cellist Julian Lloyd-Webber, children from the most deprived parts of the country will be taught musical instruments by charismatic, high quality music teachers. They will then be brought into full scale orchestras and encouraged to play live in front of audiences from an early age. Children as young as four might play concerts as part of these orchestras. Three or four areas will be chosen to launch initial pilots in the autumn. for more information see: http://nds.coi.gov.uk/content/Detail.asp?ReleaseID=371342&NewsAreaID=2&print=true

Creating the future awards 2008

Last night the Accademy for Sustainable Communities announced the winners of the Creating the Future Awards, which ASC organises on behalf of Government. We also celebrated the Future Vision winners, applauding students with bright ideas about the future of places. for more information see http://showcase.ascskills.org.uk/

Natural England announces Access to Nature grants

Natural England has announced that its £25 million Lottery funded grant programme Access to Nature is now open for business. Access to Nature aims to provide lasting change to disadvantaged communities by focusing on helping people who currently have little or no contact with the natural environment. The grant scheme is open to organisations and networks who want to help broaden access to the natural world for young people, older people [a touch too PC?! Really should be younger and older, or young and old – or else it’s everyone!], Black and Minority Ethnic groups, and people with disabilities. Natural England has been appointed by the Big Lottery Fund as an award partner, responsible for distributing £25m through the Access to Nature scheme as part of BIG’s Changing Spaces programme. Access to Nature brings together the expertise of a unique consortium of environmental organisations to deliver the grants programme. Grants of between £50,000 and £500,000 will be available to fund projects across England on both a national and regional basis for both capital and revenue. In addition funding will be available for a select number of larger grants of over £500,000 for projects which have a national significance or impact. Applications for funding will run until June 2010. Projects need to be completed by September 2013. Full details of how to apply and details of funding are available at: www.naturalengland.org.uk/accesstonature This news item was from Heritage Link Update (see www.heritagelink.org.uk). This is a fortnightly e-bulletin that carries current news items on social inclusion and many key issues for the historic environment sector. If you wish to join the circulation list to receive it first hand email mail@heritagelink.org.uk

June is Britain's First ever Roma and Traveller History month

A FREE MAGAZINE containing EVENTS LISTINGS for the month is available to download http://www.grthm.co.uk/downloads/GRTHM_Magazine.pdf The 20-page full colour history and listings magazine is part-funded by DCSF and is packed with essential info about what's going on to mark this important event. There are also a variety of photographs, interviews and historical articles researched and written by members of the Travelling community.

Who Do We Think We Are? 23-28 June

This event is a new DCSF-funded initiative designed to help primary and secondary pupils explore identity, diversity and citizenship at local, national and global scales. It supports lessons in citizenship, geography, history and religious education, as well as the wider curriculum. The event will explore the following themes: school and community; relationships, belonging and faith; history and settlement and Britishness’, national identity/values and the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. For further information go to http://www.wdwtwa.org.uk with thanks to Heritage Link for this news update

Arts Fund winner announced

The Lightbox museum and gallery in Woking has been awarded The Art Fund Prize for museums and galleries. A genuine example of grassroots action – the museum was initiated by local people. The Lightbox mixes local history, the visual arts and inspiring architecture. Situated in the centre of Woking, it has become the creative hub of surrey, bringing a sense of excitement to the local community. For more information see: http://www.thelightbox.org.uk

Heritage Link Chairman to lead on Engaging Places

Heritage Link’s Chairman, Anthea Case, has been appointed by the Minister for Culture to chair the National Partnerships and Strategy Board for the Engaging Places project. Also a Commissioner for CABE, Anthea's appointment confirms the Government's education initiative will have a strong focus on the historic environment. It also recognises Heritage Link's long standing support to the project. Don Henson, leader of Heritage Link's Education Task Group is Chairman of the Yorkshire and Humberside Advisory Panel. The establishment of the Board as a national partnership of heritage and education organisations is a major step forward for Engaging Places. Over the next 3 years it will develop a network for schools and educators providing local support and resources. From September 2008 schools will be able to access an online resource to help them teach children and young people why buildings and places matter. Linking with the Find Your Talent programme, which is trialling different ways of offering children and young people a range of high quality cultural experiences for five hours a week, in and out of school; Engaging Places builds on research with schools and is designed to offer teachers practical, curriculum linked ways to unlock the educational potential of the built environment. Culture Minister Margaret Hodge welcomed the appointment and commented 'Every single one of us encounters the built environment every day as we walk to the shops or travel to work or school. It is important that we begin to see buildings or public spaces not just as concrete or bricks and mortar but as the key to unlocking a community’s history or identity.' for further information on Engaging Places: http://www.culture.gov.uk/ with thanks to Heritage Link for this News Update

Creative Apprenticeships Pre-Launch Seminars

Creative Apprenticeships is a scheme designed to create pathways into the creative sector for candidates with talent and ability but not necessarily academic credentials. To be launched in September 2008, the government-backed scheme, overseen by Creative & Cultural Skills, will be the first officially recognised apprenticeship framework for the creative industries and aims to encourage diversity in the workforce. The apprentice can specialise in a variety of areas, including cultural and heritage venue operation and community arts, which will be supported by government-funded education providers up to a value of £4,000. The apprentice is also paid by the employer, and is recruited through normal procedures, terms and conditions agreed between the employer and apprentice. Existing staff are also eligible. To find out more about the programme and the meetings or meetings in your area, please email Jennie Godsalve at jennie.godsalve@ccskills.org.uk or call 020 7015 1813 (thanks to Heritage Link for this News Update)

My City Too Manifesto for better spaces and places in London

The My City Too manifesto is drawn from a 2 year-long-campaign with the My City Too ambassadors from across London. Ideas have been debated and developed through surveys and polls, building exploration workshops, collaborations with architects and developers. The campaign findings are intended to aid future development in ensuring that young people are part of the solution rather than being perceived as the problem. The campaign is led by Open House the architecture education charity. For more information visit http://www.mycitytoo.org.uk/ thanks to Heritage link for this news update

Outcomes framework for museums, libraries and archives

MLA has just published this important (and useful) document, showing how MLAs can contribute to the new National Indicators. This Outcomes framework sets out, against the National Indicator Set, where MLAs can have the greatest impact, and thereby helps to strengthen the case for investment in MLAs. At the same time, DCLG wants to ensure that local authorities work within the context of the National Improvement and Efficiency Strategy (which sets out how central and local government will provide the support that local partnerships will need to deliver excellent Local Area Agreements). In order to improve the quality, effectiveness and efficiency of culture and sport in the delivery of economic, social and environmental outcomes in local communities, the LGA has developed an improvement strategy for culture and sport . This Outcomes framework also demonstrates how MLAs can achieve this. The Framework takes the National Indicator Set outcomes to which MLAs can/do contribute: · Stronger communities · Safer communities · Children & young people – be healthy · Children & young people – enjoy & achieve · Children & young people – make a positive contribution · Adult health & wellbeing · Tackling exclusion and promoting equality · Local economy. For each of these, it then charts: · The relevant National Indicator · The sector’s contribution · Evidence of the impact and/or best practice · Datasets/suggested indicators. See Appendix for an example. This is a key tool for MLAs to use to help develop service provision and advocacy, linking our work into the national context. for more information see: http://www.communities.gov.uk/localgovernment/performanceframeworkpartnerships/nationalindicators/ with thanks to John Vincent at Network News http://www.seapn.org.uk/

Artists and places: engaging creative minds in regeneration

Why do so many new developments seem unimaginative and lack the qualities people enjoy in established places created in the past? And more importantly, what can we do about it? Artists & Places provides practical advice for clients and developers, drawing together the lessons learnt from PROJECT, a two-year scheme created by CABE and Arts & Business, in which artists were brought into the development process. Essays from prominent urban commentators explore why and how artists can make a difference, and six case studies demonstrate how the process works. An evaluation of the approach shows how value can accrue from engaging artists as development consultants. For further information see http://www.cabe.org.uk/ (thanks to Heritage Link for news)

Cultural Workplace Survey - Your Input Required

This is a major new piece of research which aims to develop a detailed picture of those working within the cultural and creative sector, their career paths, training and other work issues. Commissioned by the Cultural Leadership Programme and supported by the MLA, Arts Council England and Creative and Cultural Skills, the survey is designed to take no more than 15 minutes to fill in. The results will be published in late summer 2008. For further information and a link to the survey just click on: http://www.culturalworkplacesurvey.org.uk/ (with thanks to John Vincent at Network News.http://www.seapn.org.uk/)

BRINGING THE OUTSIDE IN –SCHOOLS ENCOURAGED TO DISCOVER LOCAL HERITAGE AND ARCHITECTURE TO BRING THE CURRICULUM TO LIFE

New creative learning programme for schools beginning in September 2008 Exploring the monastic ruins of Fountain’s Abbey in Yorkshire, inter-acting with the futuristic design of Leicester’s brand new John Lewis, or studying the layout of your local high street could be on the books for children as part of the Government’s ‘Engaging Places’ plan to offer schools ways to connect with their local heritage and architecture. England’s major heritage, architecture and built environment organisations, led by English Heritage and the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE), have joined forces to trial and develop practical support to schools so that children and young people have more opportunities to understand why buildings and places matter. Linking with the ‘Find Your Talent’ programme, which is trialling different ways of offering children and young people a range of high quality cultural experiences for five hours a week, in and out of school; ‘Engaging Places’ is designed to offer teachers accessible, curriculum linked ways to unlock the educational potential of their built surroundings. Support available to schools from autumn 2008 includes: · an on-line resource for schools providing a national database of heritage/built environment curriculum resources, developed by Culture 24 · a national partnership of leading cultural and education organisations chaired by Anthea Case, Chair of Heritage Link and CABE commissioner, that will develop a network for schools and educators providing practical local support and resources over the next 3 years support the new curriculum · increased support to ‘Find Your Talent’ and the ‘Learning outside the Classroom’ manifesto. The ‘Engaging Places’ project will be taken forward by the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE) and English Heritage over the next three years. for more information: http://www.culture.gov.uk/reference_library/media_releases/5142.aspx

Funding News: Find your Talent hosts found

The ten areas chosen to pilot projects in a £25 million scheme to promote culture to young people have been named. From 141 applications to the Find Your Talent programme, 10 lead organisations from across England have been selected to test activities that aim to give children, no matter what background they come from, the opportunity to participate in cultural activities for a minimum of five hours a week. The ten successful lead organisations are: * Bolton Borough Council. * The Creative Foundation (serving Shepway District and including Folkestone, Hythe and Romney Marsh). * Customs House (North and South Tyneside). * Hampshire County Council. * Leeds Children's Services. * Leicestershire County Council. * “Liverpool City Region” Partnership. * North Somerset. * Telford and Wrekin Council. * Tower Hamlets. Each area will be allocated £2.5 million over the next three years, with projects expected to start in September. Culture Secretary Andy Burnham said: “Find Your Talent is a truly exciting initiative that could open minds and change young lives. Enjoying and exploring culture and the arts is not a luxury, or an add-on, for young people. “Too many young people still leave school without ever really finding out what they could be good at: the things that could be the basis of a fulfilling life. “These pilots will kick off the long process of putting that right. Their importance cannot be overstated." Children Schools and Families Secretary Ed Balls added: "Giving young people the opportunity to take part in cultural activities will not only enrich their lives - but also help them learn. “Schools already offer many cultural activities in school hours, for example in music, art, and English in the curriculum, and there is already much cultural activity taking place outside school and beyond the school day. “The five hour offer is about building on this and giving all children and young people the opportunity to take part in cultural activities.” For more information about the Find Your Talent initiative, visit the Creative Partnerships website http://www.creative-partnerships.com/offer Source: DCSF, 29/05/2008

BASIS 2 launches to fill gaps in VCS support

Greater support is on its way to voluntary and community organisations across England, as the Big Lottery Fund today launches the second round of its BASIS (Building and Sustaining Infrastructure Support) programme with up to £50 million available to develop the sector. http://www.biglotteryfund.org.uk/pr_070508_eng_bas_launch?regioncode=-uk&status=theProg&title=BASIS%202%20launches%20to%20fill%20gaps%20in%20VCS%20support

New Lower Limit for HLF "Your Heritage" grants

Your Heritage (£3,000 to £50,000) Your Heritage provides grants of between £3,000 and £50,000 to support projects that relate to the local, regional or national heritage of the UK. HLF say they " welcome applications that help people to learn about, look after and celebrate heritage in a fun and enjoyable way." Find out more at http://www.hlf.org.uk/English/HowToApply/OurGrantGivingProgrammes/YourHeritage/

Disability Arts Online

Source: Simon Wallace) An online journal which reflects upon the lives of disabled people from the unique viewpoint afforded by the arts. DAO is involved in supporting deaf and disabled artists in their continuing professional development and as such, it profiles and reviews work as well as being a point for discussion of the issues involved in this area of work. http://www.disabilityarts.org/site

Cultural Olympiad

MLA and Culture24 want to capture all the activity across the country between now and the summer of 2012, and are pleased to announce that their database is now open for museums, libraries and archives to log details of their events and activities. Your starting point is to make contact with your regional Creative Programmer – their details are available on the Cultural Olympiad website. http://www.london2012.com/plans/culture/now-to-2012/getting-involved.php

Public Libraries & Community Engagement

MLA have just published a key piece of research which has looked at the way that libraries are responding to community engagement. Ben Taylor and Russell Pask. Community Libraries Programme Evaluation: an overview of the baseline for community engagement in libraries. MLA, 2008 (ISBN-13: 978-1-905867-24-0). Available to download as a pdf (203 kb) from: http://www.mla.gov.uk/resources/assets/C/community_libs_eval_12857.pdf.

HERITAGE LOTTERY FUND - new developments, new processes and more support for applicants

On 7 April 2008, the Heritage Lottery Fund On 7 April 2008, the Heritage Lottery Fund launched their third strategic plan for 2008 - 2013 'Valuing our Heritage, Investing in our future'. The strategic plan looks closely at advice and support for applicants, maintaining our broad definition of heritage and continuing our grant programmes, Your Heritage, Young Roots and Heritage Grants. further guidance can be found on our website www.hlf.org.uk HLF strategy document can be found at: http://www.hlf.org.uk/NR/rdonlyres/A004A1AC-6A34-4BC8-A17D-D8BF90A35DE7/0/ValuingourheritageInvestinginourfuture.pdf

HLF new strategic plan

Heritage Lottery Fund has just launched its third strategic plan,Valuing our heritage, investing in our future. "We have reviewed our funding in light of the impact of Lottery funding for the 2012 Olympics, as well as our own approach to committing funding in advance. Whilst competition for funds is expected to be tougher over the coming years, we will still be the largest source of heritage funding in the UK, and all main funding programmes will continue." For further information visit: www.hlf.org.uk.

The Winner of the Guardian Family Friendly Museums Award is.....

Weston Park Museum, Sheffield. The five-strong shortlist was: Dulwich Picture Gallery Manchester Art Gallery Shetland Museum Weston Park Museum, Sheffield Wolverhampton Art Gallery For more information go to: http://www.kidsinmuseums.org.uk/the-guardian-award/

Unlocking the talent of our communities

“This is a government committed to unlocking the talents, not of some of the people, but of all of the people.” Consultation paper, seeking views on how to engage with whole communities, ahead of a White Paper on empowerment in England, which is to be published in the summer. http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/communities/pdf/712089

Working with hard-to-reach young people: a practical guide

http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Resource/Doc/214418/0057240.pdf (Source: The Scottish Government weekly round-up) Aimed primarily at youth workers, this practical guide looks at both the meaning of hard-to-reach (including the under-served) and ways of engaging with young people.

Theatre archives research

(Source: MLA NE News bulletin, 210, 10 March 2008) Arts Council England has commissioned Hybrid to undertake a study on the subject of black and ethnic minority (BME) theatre archives in the UK . The research considers how best to support the development of archives, particularly in relation to theatre archives. Initially the project aims to map existing archives, including those that may have stored objects but not feel that they have an 'archive'. For further information about the project contact Samina Zahir on 0121 270 8878 or e-mail samina@hybridconsulting.org.uk. You can download the questionnaire from the MLA North East website directly at: http://www.mlanortheast.org.uk/nemlac/resources/BMEArtsQuestionnaire200803.doc.

Private Investment in Culture Survey

Arts and Business have now published our Private Investment in Culture Survey online along with a 'State of the Marketplace Report' for 2008 identifying current trends impacting upon private investment in culture and some commentary from three leading industry practitioners discuss the changing nature of cultural and commercial collaborations. Robin Mannings explores the future of cultural and corporate collaboration in the digital economy Karen Earl compares the trends in the marketplaces of sports and arts sponsorship Martin Smith draws out the lessons that not-for-profit culture organisations can learn from investment in the creative industries More info on the link below: http://www.aandb.org.uk/render.aspx?siteID=1&navIDs=1,150,1125,1382

Young people to have a ‘myplace’ to call their own

Beverley Hughes, Minister for Children, Young People and Families, this week launched myplace – a multi million pound government programme to deliver world class places for young people to go. Channelled through the Big Lottery Fund, myplace will invest £190 million over the next three years in ambitious projects driven by the active participation of young people. This will support the Government’s Children’s Plan pledge to provide exciting safe places for all young people to go to, and where people can engage in a wide range of positive activities such as sport, dance and music. myplace will award grants of up to £5m and local partners across the public, third and private sectors are urged to start preparations to take full advantage of this opportunity. It opens for applications on 6 May with the first investment decisions expected to be made by the end of October 2008. Application and guidance materials for the first funding round will be available from 6 May 2008. The deadline for fast track applications is 29 July 2008 and the deadline for the standard route is 30 September 2008. Full details of the proposed funding rounds and assessment criteria can be found at http://www.biglotteryfund.org.uk/

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DCFS Fair Play

MINISTERS CALL FOR: * CHILDREN IN DISADVANTAGED AREAS TO GET ADVENTURE PLAYGROUNDS * CITIES AND TOWNS TO MAKE PUBLIC SPACES MORE CHILD FRIENDLY * BACKED WITH AN EXTRA £10M ON TOP OF £225M ALREADY PLEDGED FOR PLAY Children across the country are to get an extra 3,500 play areas and 30 local authorities will get £2 million each to build new adventure playgrounds, as part of £235m Government investment on children's play.

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Impact of 2012 games on Lottery funding in London.

The Greater London Authority has published a report, The Impact of the 2012 Games on Lottery Funding in London. In their press release they said that although the capital would benefit from the Olympics, many organisations would suffer as a result of lost Lottery funds and smaller organisations would suffer most.

Download here as PDF

Unlocking the Talent of our Communities

This document sets out the government's commitment to unlocking the talents, not of some of the people, but of all of the people and seeks views on the ways to make changes which give people locally more influence, control and ownership of local services such as employment, health, education and transport. It contains four sections: * improving deprived areas through regeneration and promoting work and enterprise * encouraging active citizenship, and reviving civic society and local democracy * improving local public services by involving local users and consumers * strengthening local accountability You can download the document from the government website below. They are inviting comment so it is a chance to shape future policy.

http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/communities/unlockingtalent

Britishness, Heritage and the Arts

Should cultural institutions promote shared values and a common national identity? The Institute for Public Policy Research was delighted to host a breakfast event to discuss the role of the arts and heritage sector in promoting shared values and a common identity. The event featured a keynote speech by Rt. Hon Margaret Hodge MP, Minister of State for Culture. click on weblink below to hear or read her speech. Issues of cohesion, diversity and identity have moved to the centre of public debate. With evidence of increased community tensions in some parts of the country and with immigration consistently at the top of the political agenda, the Prime Minister has argued that promoting a shared sense of Britishness is an important way of improving social cohesion and fostering good relations between people from different walks of life. This event explored the role of the arts and heritage sectors in addressing these issues. It asked: · Do local and national cultural institutions such as our museums and galleries have a responsibility to promote social cohesion? Is promoting a shared understanding of Britishness the best way to do this? · Is there a trade off between promoting shared national identities and embracing cultural diversity, or can the two go hand in hand? · What are the practical implications of this agenda for those working in the arts and heritage sectors and those responsible for delivering community cohesion on the ground? The keynote speech was followed by a panel discussion with contributions from: · Kwame Kwei-Armah, Actor and Playwright · Dr Simon Thurley, Chief Executive, English Heritage · Sandy Nairne, Director, National Portrait Gallery

see http://www.ippr.org/events/?id=3008

“Scottish Social Attitudes” Survey

They show considerable progress, but also that particular groups facing continuing discrimination: “For the most part only a minority uphold a discriminatory outlook. But discriminatory attitudes are more widespread in respect of some groups than others. They are particularly common in respect of Gypsies/Travellers and someone who has had a sex change operation (a description designed to refer to a transgender person). Otherwise, they seem most likely to be expressed in respect of gay men and lesbians. Thereafter they are most widespread when people are asked about Muslims or about black and Asian people as a group. On the other hand, discriminatory attitudes are relatively infrequent in respect of the roles of men and women, age and disability. Even so, significant minorities can not only still hold stereotypical views about the kinds of work that women do, but may in certain circumstances still express discriminatory attitudes about older or younger people, or about someone with a disability, perhaps because of concerns about their ability to ‘cope’ with the demands of a particular situation.” [pp ix-x]

The 2006 Survey results have just been published - see: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Resource/Doc/205755/0054714.pdf.

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British Social Attitudes

The latest report from the National Centre for Social Research has just been published - see: http://www.sagepub.co.uk/booksProdDesc.nav?prodId=Book231969. As the press release indicates, our views on family life have become more liberal, there is widespread concern about the environment and inequality, but, for example, 36% of people think equal opportunities for black and Asian people have gone too far -

see: http://www.natcen.ac.uk/natcen/pages/news_and_media_docs/BSA_24_report.pdf

Devon Record Office LGBT Project

The Intercom Trust, which supports gay, lesbian, bisexual, and trans-sexual people and communities throughout the South West, has appointed a Heritage Project Co-ordinator to research the histories of individual people and create collections of archival material. Although this is not easy, it is possible to start with a few notorious case studies, such as that of Mary Hamilton, who posed as a male doctor and was tried at Glastonbury in 1746. The hope is that other stories will emerge to fill in some of the gaps in the picture. February 2008 is LGBT History Month, devoted to research into this hidden area of the history of the South West Peninsula. A travelling exhibition, ‘1967 and all that’, will be on display for a time at the Record Office in Exeter.

For further details: The latest DRO Newsletter: http://www.devon.gov.uk/autumn2007.pdf The DRO Homepage: http://www.devon.gov.uk/record_office.htm

Council on Social Action

Just in case you haven’t yet seen this, the Government has just launched the Council on Social Action. "The Council will aim to generate ideas and initiatives through which Government and other key stakeholders can inspire, catalyse and celebrate social action. By social action, we refer to the wide range of ways through which individuals, communities, organisations and businesses can seek, through their choices, actions and commitments, to create change to address the social issues they care about."

See: http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/third_sector/news/news_stories/071211_council_social_action.aspx.

The third sector ... local government performance framework

Would you like to know more about the new local government performance framework? This new document explains – and sets in context – strategies such as Local Strategic Partnerships, Sustainable Community Strategies, Local Area Agreements, and also spells out what the Comprehensive Area Assessment will look like.

The third sector: the crucial role of the new local performance framework. DCLG, 2007. Available to download as a pdf (657 kb) from: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/localgovernment/pdf/621274.

News on Our Place provided by The Network

For general information about social justice and museums and galleries, libraries, archives and other cultural and heritage organisations, see The Network - tackling social exclusion at http://www.seapn.org.uk . You can find membership details there plus the file of monthly Newsletters.

Historic buildings listed to highlight links to the abolition of the slave trade

DCMS issued the following announcement on 20th December 2007 concerning the listing of 18 historic buildings to highlight their links to the abolition of slavery With the recent ending of the bicentenary year of the abolition of the slave trade draws, Margaret Hodge, Culture Minister, announced new protection for 18 historic buildings and monuments linked to the slave trade. Margaret Hodge said: “The listing of these buildings is a timely reminder of how England’s involvement in the slave trade is reflected in the built environment. It is important that we acknowledge all aspects of the slave trade, both the people who campaigned against it and succeeded in bringing about the abolition of slavery, and also the people affected by it, the Africans whose lives were disrupted and destroyed. I am pleased to say these new listings reflect this diversity, from prominent campaigners like Thomas Fowell Buxton to the unknown ‘native of Africa’ commemorated in the graveyard in Shropshire.”

Information regarding the English Heritage project to review listed buildings and acknowledge historic links to transatlantic slavery and the abolitionist movement can be found here: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/server/show/ConWebDoc.12888

Outside Edge - exhibition about black British lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender history

A small exhibition Outside Edge opens at Museum in Docklands on 7 February 2008 and is a journey through black British lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) history of the last 30 years. The black LGBT community has been vibrantly active for a long time but has not always been well represented culturally. This display, which opens during LGBT History Month, seeks to redress the balance and acknowledge the presence of the black LGBT community. A study day is being held in conjunction with the display on Saturday 23 February and will explore London’s black LGBT history through talks, discussion and debate with Ajamu from rukus! Lynette Goddard, Historian and Steven G Fullwood, project director of Black, Gay and Lesbian Archive, New York.

Reducing inequalities

New report from the National Children’s Bureau looks at some of the issues that can be identified, which help predict a child’s likely outcome in terms of social exclusion, and suggests some ways of beginning to address this.

Full details are: Leon Feinstein et al. Reducing inequalities: realising the talents of all. NCB, 2007 (ISBN-13: 978-1-905818-20-4). Available to download as a pdf from: http://www.ncb.org.uk/dotpdf/member%20only%20-%20phase%202/REDUweb.pdf.

Morgan Inquiry into youth volunteering

Baroness Morgan of Huyton, in conjunction with a cross-party panel, is holding an independent inquiry on the future of young adult volunteering between the ages of 18 and 24. Evidence should be submitted by 8 February 2008.

For further info, see: http://morganinquiry.org.uk/index.html