The NIHR Research Support Service (RSS) Specialist Centre for Public Health is offering Public Health Grassroots Awards to help people with little or no research experience develop their research skills and knowledge. The funding can be used for a range of learning and development opportunities, including attending conferences, completing training courses, studying research methods, or spending time shadowing a research team.
The Severn Trent Community Fund has opened a new round of Core Funding for not-for-profit organisations delivering vital services within local communities. The funding is designed to help organisations facing financial pressures continue their existing work, particularly where they support vulnerable people and improve community wellbeing.
Sharon’s latest update reflects on the recent VCSEF Alliance meeting and the importance of ensuring Wolverhampton’s voluntary, community, social enterprise and faith sector has a strong voice in shaping the future. Discussions focused on the City Council’s draft VCS Strategy, with key themes including valuing sector expertise, tackling ongoing funding and demand pressures, and building stronger long-term partnerships. Sharon also highlights the launch of Compton Care’s Trail of the Dragons project, which will bring 30 dragon sculptures to the city, and welcomes Wolverhampton’s new Mayor, Councillor Paul Singh, who will be supporting four local charities and community organisations during his civic year.
Sharon’s latest update reflects on the growing pressure facing infrastructure organisations across the UK, just as the voluntary sector is being asked to do more. She highlights how LIOs like WVCA play a vital “glue” role – bringing the sector together, translating policy, amplifying voices, and ensuring organisations have collective influence rather than working in isolation. With the Council’s VCS Strategy in development, she stresses the importance of maintaining an independent, sector-led space where all voices are heard. Her focus is on staying professional, data-led and united, strengthening the foundations of the sector so it can remain influential, connected and better able to support Wolverhampton’s communities.
The new The Queen Elizabeth Trust has been launched as a UK-wide initiative to strengthen communities and revitalise shared local spaces in honour of the legacy of Queen Elizabeth II. Backed by a £40 million government endowment, the Trust aims to support projects that bring people together, strengthen local pride, and improve community wellbeing.