Leading charity Community First, in partnership with Eastleigh Borough Council, have recruited a new Community Engagement Coordinator who is looking to connect with local charities and volunteers across the Borough.
Community Engagement Coordinator Jo Proctor is leading a team to help groups access more external funding, recruit volunteers, review governance and improve business planning. Jo said: “I’ve had a great start at Community First and look forward to getting to know more people and groups across in the area. Strong local voluntary organisations and charities are needed more than ever as we look to support and complement our local authorities and we will do all we can to help groups access the funding they need and work together to deliver support for those who need it most. The team and I would love to hear from any groups that need support with governance, are seeking funding or need more volunteers.”
Tim Houghton, Chief Executive of Community First, said: “We’re delighted to have Jo lead our team in Eastleigh Borough. Her experience supporting the setup and running of voluntary organisations and expertise will be valued by groups delivering vital services to people in the area. In partnership with Eastleigh Borough Council, we also hope to encourage more volunteering by helping local residents realise the benefits it can bring to their own health and wellbeing and their local community.”
Councillor Paul Bicknell, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration (North) and Social Policy, said: “We are really excited with our new partnership with Community First. We urge local groups and volunteers to get in touch with Jo to take advantage of the support they can offer.”
The Council has recently appointed leading charity Community First to deliver vital support for voluntary groups and charities and help more residents to volunteer.
Community First is a leading voice for the voluntary sector in Hampshire providing expert guidance and enabling voluntary and community groups to maximise the benefit of their work in the community.
Priority areas for the partnership include promoting and supporting volunteering opportunities across the Borough and working in collaboration with organisations dedicated to addressing issues related to loneliness, social isolation and health and wellbeing.
For more information, contact Jo Proctor at jo.proctor@cfirst.org.uk or visit www.cfirst.org.uk
