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Christmas Kindness 2024

It's been another challenging year for many of us, but we can choose to respond with kindness, help spread some joy and give people hope for a positive future.

Where to Turn for support in Ripon this winter

As we say goodbye to summer, we are reflecting on how we connect with the community and those organisations who support our residents to live happy and fulfilling lives.

Giving to local good causes made easy

For any business looking for a way to spread the love and support the vital work of small local charities, it can be hard to choose as there are so many projects doing fantastic work! 

Making A Positive Difference: Our Impact

Our HADCA Impact Report gives some examples of how we have helped and connected communities, charities and volunteers in 2023-2024. 

The Power of Community - AGM 2024

Thank you to all members, friends, partners and supporters who joined us at our 2024 AGM at The Wesley Centre in Harrogate to look back over a year of challenges and new positive partnerships.  

Free Banners for charities!

BannerBuzz are offering FREE vinyl banners to registered charities, schools and any not-for-profit organisations. 

Fundraising Through Fitness

A local group whose members combine being active with helping out in the community has raised over £1,000 for local charity, Artizan International.

Volunteers offering hope

Local community groups offer hope for people coming to our area from desperate situations.

Celebrating the kindness of young people

It’s been a busy few months for our Power Of 10 volunteering awards and rewards scheme in Ripon, with over 60 young people receiving their awards.

HADCA AGM 2024

We hope colleagues from charities, community groups and partner organisations from across the Harrogate district will be able to join us on Thursday 10th October 2024 12.30pm at Wesley Centre, Oxford Street, Harrogate HG1 1PP.

Local Humanitarian to Deliver Much-Needed Ambulance to Ukraine

John Shackleton, MBE, an 85-year-old veteran humanitarian from Harrogate has embarked on 49 missions, over 80% of which were self-funded, delivering aid to war-torn regions such as Romania, Kosovo, and Afghanistan.

Putting the fun into your fundraising

With the continuing financial challenges facing charities, community fundraising has never been so important to the future of many of our local support services.

Activities Connecting Ripon young people this summer

This time of year, it can be a challenge to keep children entertained, but our Connecting Ripon community organisations have some fantastic free and affordable activities.

Making thoughtful choices about where we spend our money

Supporting a charity doesn’t always mean doing something different or extra – it can just be about choosing thoughtfully where to do things you’d already planned to do.

High Sheriff of North Yorkshire Awards for dedicated volunteers

On 17 July, we were delighted to welcome Dr Ruth Smith, High Sheriff of North Yorkshire, to Harrogate Community House. 

Making accessible information available to all

Last month, during Learning Disability Week, Mencap highlighted how people with a learning disability should be seen, heard and valued, given the opportunity to develop confidence to thrive and feel equal in society.

Opportunities with dementia hubs and tandem clubs

Volunteers’ Week is a good time to start volunteering and begin the journey to finding new friends, different experiences and perhaps new things about yourself too! 

Spring into a world of volunteering

Step outside and soak up the sunshine and what better way to make the most of it than by getting involved in volunteering at your local parks, gardens and gardening-related charities?

Funding and Volunteers vital for community projects

Funding and volunteers are the vital elements to not only ensure survival, but give capacity to thrive and make an impact, improving the lives of local residents. 

The Positive Power of 10 for Young People

The Power of 10 volunteering scheme in Ripon has shown what can be possible if a community comes together to provide a nurturing and supportive environment for young people.

Easter Holiday Closing Times

Our offices will be closed from 4.30pm on Thursday 28 March until 9am on Tuesday 2 April 2024 for the Easter weekend, and Harrogate Community House will be closed to the public during this time. We will get back to you as soon as we can after the break.   

Care in Action Newsletter Spring 2024

Our Spring newsletter 'The Power of People and Pounds' focuses on growing volunteering and local giving.   

Enjoy the Sights and Sounds of Ripon

Sights and Sounds celebrates how much Ripon has to offer and what can be achieved when a community has strong local connections.  

Offices available at our community hub

Our hub provides affordable accommodation and services to the local voluntary and community sector in our town centre location.

The power of youth volunteering

The Power of 10 Awards & Rewards Scheme launches in Ripon to inspire young to get involved in volunteering and experience the benefits it brings.

Passion for keeping people active through dance

HADCA supports people to make good things happen. It is hugely rewarding to help the small seed of a great idea grow into a much loved and vital charitable organisation.

Conversations creating a supportive community

1st February is national Time to Talk Day. The day is about creating supportive communities by having conversations with family, friends and colleagues about mental health.

‘The Power of 10’ awards inspiring young people

The Power of 10 scheme has shown what can be possible if a community works together to provide a nurturing and supportive environment for our young people.

Volunteers Urged To ‘Help Out’ Harrogate

Harrogate and District Community Action has launched a brand new project offering local people the chance to volunteer at a variety of one-off events in the community without the need to make a regular commitment.

An exciting part time opportunity to support the development of our Community Fit project

The New Year brings an exciting new opportunity to support the development of our Community Fit project, helping people combine exercise with being social and doing good. 

Find out more about how HADCA can help in 2024

Like to know more about HADCA and our local voluntary sector?
Our free Introduction Session is an hour well spent if you’re interested in connecting with others to make Harrogate District a better place for everyone

HADCA and HELP Holiday Closing Times

A Happy and Peaceful Christmas from the trustees, staff and volunteers at HADCA and very best wishes to you and your organisations for 2024.

We hope you’ve found our information, newsletters, networks, directories and support helpful this year. 

Where To Turn over the Christmas holiday period 2023

Advice and support over the holidays.  

A Warm Welcome

A local network of community organisations, churches, libraries and other groups are welcoming people through their doors this winter to be social and keep warm.  

Harnessing the power of volunteering

Help Out Harrogate is our new initiative offering local people the chance to volunteer at a variety of one-off events without the need to make any regular commitment.

High Sheriff inspired by impact of THE LOCAL FUND

Harrogate was abuzz with high community spirits as groups representing the 36 organisations supported by THE LOCAL FUND for the Harrogate District in 2023 came together to celebrate the work they do and make new connections.   
 

Connecting with our Local Neighbourhoods
Can you help HADCA with a local neighbourhood research project for the Harrogate Town locality?

 

Local community organisations showcased at photography exhibition 

Run in conjunction with Clare Granger, the High Sheriff of North Yorkshire, the Photography Exhibition & Showcase gave local business leaders, friends and supporters of Two Ridings Community Foundation the opportunity to view the impact of community organisations through 16 superb photographs

An opportunity to join HADCA as our Finance Trustee 

Community action has been one of the heartening things to emerge over the past few years.  We want to harness this thriving sense of community across Harrogate district, connecting and collaborating to build on it.

Making A Positive Difference: Our Impact

Our HADCA Impact Report gives some examples of how we have helped and connected communities, charities and volunteers in 2022-2023. 

The Power of Community - AGM 2023

Thank you to all members, friends, partners and supporters who joined us at our 2023 AGM at Christ Church Parish Centre, Harrogate to look back over a year of change and new positive partnerships.  

THE LOCAL FUND distributes £55,340 to 23 community groups

THE LOCAL FUND for the Harrogate District recently funded 23 charitable community organisations to enable them to continue to support local people all over the Harrogate district. 

Congratulations to the Power of 10 Volunteering Award Winners

Over the last 18 months, our Volunteering City of Ripon Skell Valley Partnership Project has been working on a pilot programme to inspire and empower our young people to explore the many benefits of volunteering both to them and their community. 

Local events bring a sense of community

Community events bring people together and provide a sense of community and continuity from one year to the next, a welcome antidote to whatever is happening in the wider world that seems challenging and difficult

HADCA AGM 2023 - Celebrating Community Connections

We hope colleagues from charities, community groups and partner organisations from across the Harrogate district will be able to join us on Wednesday 11th October 2023 12.30pm at Christ Church, Church Square, Harrogate HG1 4SW.

Care in Action Newsletter Summer 2023

Our Summer newsletter 'Celebrating Community Heroes' focuses on celebrating community connections and boosting volunteering.  

St Wilfrid’s Stars 2023

Ripon and the surrounding areas are blessed with many people and organisations who work selflessly to enhance the life of the city. Ripon Together propose to honour them all with a star displayed in the Cathedral, and to make awards at a reception in the Cathedral on 26 October. 

Keeping active, creative and happy this summer

Young people can find themselves bored during the summer holidays. Our Connecting Ripon Network community organisations have some fantastic free activities for all ages. 

It is important as we get older to still feel part of a community

Over the years HADCA has helped a wide range of voluntary groups and organisations to get started and thrive. Providing encouragement and advice, our role is to harness the passions and enthusiasm of local people wanting to make a difference in their communities.

Harrogate Community House tenants honoured to meet High Sheriff of North Yorkshire

On 10 July, we had the pleasure and honour of hosting a visit from Clare Granger, High Sheriff of North Yorkshire, at Harrogate Community House. 

New friendships, companionship and laughter

Dancing for Well-Being bring older people together to dance, chat, laugh and have fun, and could be just what who you’re looking for, if you thought your dancing days were over! 

An opportunity to join us - Charity Trustees Needed

As a membership organisation, we know that local knowledge is vital and our Board member representatives from local charities and groups provide vital insight when helping to shape our direction and priorities. We are keen to hear from people involved with local community organisations who would like to become trustees of HADCA

Small Charity Week Celebration and Collaboration

Small charities all exist due to the support of people who bring huge enthusiasm and commitment to good causes close to their hearts. They are brilliant at making small amounts of money go a very long way, harnessing the time, talents and skills of local people to make a difference. 

Volunteers’ Week: time to Celebrate and Inspire

The contribution of volunteers is often unseen and unrecognised by many, visible only through the incredible impact of their volunteering, such as at ‘Young at Heart’.  

Vital support for our good mental health

Anxiety was the theme of this year's Mental Health Awareness Week. Anxiety can be made easier to manage and locally we have several excellent voluntary organisations and churches providing support, including Renew Ripon. 

The Big Help Out

Voluntary and community groups across Harrogate district are taking part in The Big Help Out, a national volunteering campaign taking place over the King’s coronation bank holiday weekend. 

Showcasing talents and creating opportunities

Artizan International is a Harrogate-based charity that works locally and overseas, to create opportunities for differently-able people to gain skills, reduce their social isolation, show-case their talents to their local communities and in so-doing be recognised for their abilities, rather than their disabilities.

Building a Culture of Welcome

In 2016, three exhausted families arrived in Ripon. They were Syrians who had fled the war. They had no idea what they were coming to, but they’d been chosen by the UK government and the United Nations to be resettled here, so they took their one chance of hope. 

Peer Support Rebuilding Lives

New Beginnings Peer Support charity was set up as an after-crisis domestic abuse service supporting women and their children to re-build their lives after previously being subjected to abuse. 

Easter Holiday Closing Times

Our offices will be closed from 4.30pm on Thursday 6 April until 9am on Tuesday 11 April 2023. 

Happy Easter and thank you everyone working and volunteering over the weekend to keep us all safe and well.

Students share their tips on how to spread community joy

This Student Volunteering Week 2023, we’re delighted to post a guest blog from our friends at Harrogate College, sharing their experiences and top tips for volunteering.

A Small Church with a Big Heart

Ripon Salvation Army was planted, as a new church, just over 30 years ago, and has a reputation of compassionate community involvement.

The effects of social action on young people

Thank you to Harrogate College for sharing this article.  

Inspiring Young People to Volunteer 

The New Year is a time of new beginnings and a time people when think about volunteering, so we’re delighted to share phase 2 of our Volunteering City of Ripon Project with you.

The perfect match as Ripon befriender scheme brings joy and happiness

When Danny and Janet were matched as befrienders, neither of them knew just how well they would get on.

Care in Action Newsletter Winter 2022

This edition 'Where to Turn this Winter' focuses on support with living costs and keeping warm, well, safe and social.   

Christmas Kindness 2022

It's been another difficult year, but we can choose to respond with kindness, help spread some joy and give people hope for a positive future.

Cost of Living Support

Local support for anyone worried about managing energy and living costs, debts, buying food and keeping warm. 

Making A Positive Difference: Our Impact

Our HADCA Impact Report gives some examples of how we have helped and connected communities, charities and volunteers in 2021-2022. 

Creating a Stronger Local Community

Thank you to everyone who joined us at our 2022 AGM at Friends Meeting House to look back over a year of change and community and to look forward to connecting and collaborating across the district as we navigate the challenges of this winter and beyond. 

HADCA AGM 2022 - Connecting and Collaborating

We hope colleagues from charities, community groups and partner organisations from across the Harrogate district will be able to join us on Thursday 13th October 2022 11:00am at Friends Meeting House, 12a Queen Parade, Harrogate HG1 5PP.

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

We are saddened by the death of Her Majesty The Queen, who supported and encouraged so many charities, bringing people together. 
Our thoughts are with everyone who loved and admired her.

Exciting part time opportunity at Harrogate Community House

This is an exciting opportunity to help our HADCA team support a wide range of charities by ensuring the smooth and safe operation of our much loved Harrogate Community House, which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. 

Community Food

Local community providers across Harrogate district are here to help anyone in need with food. 

Clothing and furniture banks are here to offer free, good quality, previously owned clothes and furniture to anyone in need. 

Together again for Coffee, Chat and Friendship 

The national ‘Month of Community’ is a time each June when we come together to celebrate everything that makes our communities great, but it feels more like the ‘Summer of Community’ this year.

Care in Action Newsletter Summer 2022

This edition 'Summer of Community' celebrates making community connections, local giving, volunteering and exciting new partnership projects. 

Celebrating 25 years of service at Harrogate Community House

Since opening in 1997 Harrogate Community House on East Parade has been the home of a wide range of charities and community groups, providing good quality reasonably priced office accommodation as well as meeting rooms and an information centre.

Welcoming Community Fit to Harrogate

An activity group launching in Harrogate next week is looking for new members to join them. The aim of Community Fit is to create a team of local people who meet to be social and active while giving time to Harrogate’s people and spaces.

Volunteers are the magic ingredient 

Volunteers’ Week takes place 1-7 June during the Month of Community. It's a chance to recognise the fantastic contribution volunteers make to our communities and to say thank you.

£40,688 distributed to community groups through THE LOCAL FUND

In May 2022, THE LOCAL FUND for the Harrogate District funded 14 charitable community groups to enable them to continue to support local people all over the Harrogate district.  

Happy Jubilee Weekend!

Our offices are closed for the Platinum Jubilee weekend from 4.30pm on 1 June until 9am on Monday 6 June. 

Putting our Volunteering City on the map

During an exceptionally difficult couple of years, people from all walks of life have taken the time to volunteer and they make a huge difference in Ripon and the surrounding villages. 

Help to set-up and use your free NHS App

The NHS App is free to download and is a safe, secure and easier way to book appointments at your GP surgery, order repeat prescriptions, and view your medical records at any time, as well as getting medical advice and your COVID-19 passport whenever you need it.

Making life better for everyone in many different ways

At HADCA we're big fans of the Action for Happiness movement, and in particular their daily tweets of bright and cheerful graphics and inspiring quotes.

Easter Holiday Closing Times

Our offices are closed from 4.30pm on Thursday 14 April until 9am on Tuesday 19 April.  

Happy Easter and thank you everyone working and volunteering over the weekend to keep us all safe and well.

History of sanctuary and culture of welcome

In 937, King Athelstan created a ring of sanctuary around Ripon by placing eight crosses on the roads approaching the city, with the Cathedral at the centre. Only one of these now remains but you can still follow the Sanctuary Way Walk around the city.
 

New Volunteering Project Launching Soon

Help us to help you! We are seeking partners for an exciting new project launching soon in the Harrogate area.

Supporting Ukraine

The situation in Ukraine is devastating and urgent. Civil society organisations are on the frontline in the country, in its neighbours helping refugees, and around the world lobbying governments and raising funds.

Frances receives her MBE at Windsor Castle

The HADCA team is very proud and delighted this week as Frances Elliot, our CEO, received her MBE award at Windsor Castle. 

It was awarded in the 2021 Queen’s birthday honours for services to the community during the pandemic.

The Road Ahead Together

Traditionally, January is a month when we reflect on the year that has passed and what we have learned, celebrate our achievements, and set out goals and resolutions for the upcoming year.

HADCA and HELP Holiday Closing Times

A Happy and Peaceful Christmas from the trustees, staff and volunteers at HADCA and very best wishes to you and your organisations for 2022.

We hope you’ve found our information, newsletters, networks, directories and support helpful during 2021.

Where To Turn over the Christmas holiday period 2021
Where To Turn for support over Christmas and New Year  

 

Getting Fit by Doing Good

Harrogate District Community Fit is the name for an exciting new programme launching in the Harrogate District in 2022. 

Christmas Kindness

Although we can't change our situation, we can choose to respond with kindness and give people hope for a positive future, as so many people across Harrogate District have done this year.  

Together Everyone Achieves More

‘Together Everyone Achieves More’ has been the motto of Jennyruth Workshops since the local charity was founded. 

Celebrating £85,000 distributed through THE LOCAL FUND in 2021 

Local Community Groups, the Mayor and Mayoress of the Harrogate District, the High Sheriff of North Yorkshire, Councillors and supporters came together at the West Park Hotel in Harrogate to celebrate a bumper year of funding distributed by THE LOCAL FUND for the Harrogate District.

Where To Turn this winter

It’s no accident that HADCA's directory of community organisations is called Where to Turn, providing information on the network of voluntary groups and charities at the ready to help local residents (www.hadca.org.uk

Doing good by just having a brew!

Just like any business, charities must be financially viable. This can include selling products and services, whether via vast trading arms such as National Trust Enterprises or smaller local social enterprises such as Paperworks.

Volunteer call for local charity shops  

Charity shops have experienced a surge in donations and rising sales since reopening, but many shops are struggling to recruit enough new volunteers to fill gaps left by volunteers who have not returned following lockdown and to keep pace with the growing interest in buying second hand.

Making A Difference: Our Impact

Our HADCA Impact Report gives some examples of how we have helped and connected communities, charities and volunteers over the last year.

A year of change, connections and community

Thank you to everyone who joined us at our 2021 AGM (both in person at Harrogate Community House and via Zoom) to look back over a year of change, connections and community.

HADCA AGM 2021 - Celebrating Community Connections

We hope colleagues from charities, community groups and partner organisations from across the district will be able to join us on Thursday 14 October, 2pm to 3pm via Zoom to celebrate community connections.  

A positive story of community and the value of volunteers.

City of Angels is a positive story of community and the value of volunteers.

Experienced volunteer manager needed to lead innovative partnership project

We’re looking for someone special to bring an exciting volunteering project to life in and around the city of Ripon.

Funding to restart activities in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

Just over £45,000 was allocated to enable local organisations to restart activities in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

Charity trustees needed

We’re looking for passionate individuals to join our HADCA Trustee board to help to drive us forward during the Covid-19 recovery period and beyond. 

Care in Action Newsletter Summer 2021

This Summer edition 'Small but Vital and Valued', shared during Small Charity Week, celebrates the contribution our local charities make. Run by local people for local people they really understand what's needed for our community to thrive for everyone.     

Small but Vital and Valued

Small Charity Week celebrates and raises awareness of the essential work of the UK’s small charity sector who make an invaluable contribution to the lives of millions of individuals, communities and causes across the UK and the rest of the world.

Frances Elliot our CEO awarded MBE

Frances Elliot, our Harrogate & District Community Action CEO, will receive an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List, in recognition of her services to the community during the Covid 19 pandemic.

Celebration of Special Anniversaries 2021

During Volunteers’ Week we have launched ‘Celebration of Volunteering 2021’

The Value and Joy of Volunteering

Every year between 1 – 7 June we celebrate the positive difference volunteering makes to everyone involved. Volunteers’ Week highlights and recognises the contribution of people who share their time, passion, skills and enthusiasm to do something positive for local people and our places all

HADCA Survey 2021

How are we doing? Please help keep HADCA on the right track 

An Opportunity to join our HADCA team

If you’re interested in a varied and rewarding role here’s an opportunity to join our small, friendly and very busy local charity team based at Harrogate Community House.

Access for all in city and countryside

The last year produced challenges for many local charities and community groups but work continued for the benefit of local people. 

Positive Partnership for Young People 

Youth services can be a vital lifeline providing a safe space for young people and positive, trusted guidance. Building relationships is important so young people are able to contribute ideas and experiences and have their voices heard to shape services.

Connecting with Nature for Wellbeing

The positive signs of spring are everywhere now, arriving at the same time as hopeful indications that life can return to something like normal as the lockdown restrictions are carefully lifted. Catching up with family and friends outdoors, enjoying a drink in a pub beer garden or a marquee

THE LOCAL FUND re-opens 13 May to support local groups 

Community groups and projects can apply for grants from THE LOCAL FUND for the Harrogate District, supported by donations from THE LOCAL LOTTO and Harrogate-based Full Circle Funerals. 

Easter Holiday Closing Times

HADCA and HELP Easter Holiday Closing Times

Along with so many of our local charities, our team has been working very hard over the last 12 months, often behind the scenes, and we’re looking forward to taking a short break at Easter.  

THE LOCAL FUND for the Harrogate District supports ten local groups to keep going during lockdown

At the beginning of March 2021 groups heard about the outcome of their recent applications to THE LOCAL FUND for the Harrogate District. 

Opportunities join our HADCA team

We’re looking for special people to join our small and hard-working team dedicated to supporting charities, volunteers and communities across the Harrogate District.

Ongoing local partnership effort to mobilise support

At HADCA we’re fans of the Action for Happiness movement and their inspirational online daily posts, accompanied by beautiful and quirky graphics.

Community stepping up with acts of kindness 

At our network meetings we hear about the contribution of people who give time in many different ways to support the vital work of local community organisations.

Tribute to local community champion Claire

The staff and trustees of Harrogate and District Community Action have been saddened by the news that former trustee Claire Kelley has passed away. 

Local Volunteering Opportunities for 2021

If volunteering was your New Year Resolution, it’s not too late to start! You really can make a positive difference to your community and your own life, whatever your age. 

Where To Turn at Christmas and New Year
Where To Turn for support over the holiday period 

 

Our Directories are Here To Help

We're very pleased that our fully seachable community directories are now back up and running, after a few problems during the last couple of days.  

HADCA and HELP Holiday Closing Times

A Happy and Peaceful Christmas from the trustees, staff and volunteers at HADCA and very best wishes to you and your organisations for 2021.

We hope you’ve found our information, newsletters, networks, directories and support helpful during 2020.

Care in Action Newsletter Winter 2020

This Winter edition 'The Gift of Kindness and Care' includes just some of the many examples of people coming together in Harrogate District to tackle unprecedented challenges this year.

Christmas Kindness

2020 has been a difficult year in many ways.  Although we can't change our situation, we can choose to respond with kindness and give people hope for a positive future, as so many people across Harrogate District have done.  

THE LOCAL FUND 2020 funding round open

HADCA is proud to be a THE LOCAL FUND for the Harrogate District partner with Harrogate Borough Council and Two Ridings Community Foundation. 

Raise your Glass to our Volunteers!

Sadly this year’s Harrogate & District Volunteering Oscars arranged for Friday 30 October 2020 have had to be cancelled.  

Celebration of Volunteering 2020

This year our volunteers have never been more needed and they have stepped up to provide vital services to local people who have no-one else to turn to.

Making A Difference: Our Impact

Our HADCA Impact Report gives some examples of how we have helped and connected communities, charities and volunteers over the last year.

HADCA AGM and Celebration Event 2020

We hope colleagues from charities; community groups and partner organisations from across the district will be able to join us on Thursday 15 October, 11:00am to 12:00pm via Zoom as we share how we connect people in our communities and celebrate community action. 

An Opportunity to join our HADCA team

We’re looking for special people to join our small and hard-working team dedicated to supporting community action and volunteering across the Harrogate District.

The support of local charities is #NeverMoreNeeded

Covid-19 has given rise to unprecedented times and completely changed the way we live and work. This is true for our local charities keeping people safe, happy and healthy, offering opportunities to connect through online and physically distanced learning, creative and social activities. Charity teams have remained passionately committed to supporting people who need their services. 

Care in Action Newsletter Summer 2020

This Summer edition 'Community Makes Us’ includes an update on the fantastic local community response to the coronavirus crisis and our focus as we move to the ‘recovery’ phase.  

Cheers for our Volunteers!    

This Volunteers’ Week is a time to say a special thank you to all volunteers across Harrogate District for their dedication and the positive difference they make in our communities.   

Care in Action Newsletter Spring 2020

This Spring edition 'Time for Community Action'  includes our plans to focus more on supporting local community action and our front line services, under our new name Harrogate & District Community Action (HADCA), and the fantastic local community response to coronavirus. 

COVID-19: Advice, guidance and community information

Our round up of advice, guidance and community information to support charities, volunteers and communities in Harrogate District will be reviewed regularly during these challenging and changing times caused by the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

Challenge of COVID-19 - thoughts of our CEO

Some thoughts from our HARCVS CEO, Karen Weaver

19 March 2020

Become a Here to Help Volunteer

HELP volunteers help people live safe and well at home and stay connected with their communities.

Harrogate Community House Update

On Tuesday 24 March Harrogate Community House closed to visitors until further notice. We look forward to welcoming visitors and meeting room users back to Community House in the future, when it is safe to do so.  

Looking out for our neighbours and staying safe

With the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak in the UK, it  is hard for people to maintain their social connections. Looking out for our neighbours has never been more important. We can all do our bit to ensure that people who need a little extra help are not forgotten at this time and remain safe – be they family, friends or neighbours.

Forthcoming changes at HARCVS

From 1st May 2020 HARCVS will undergo a major change as it restructures to concentrate on the provision of services for older and vulnerable people delivered across the District under the umbrella of the Harrogate Easier Living Project.

Being Viable, Valued and Visible

Whatever the size of the charity or voluntary organisation, it is the trustees or management committee members who hold this responsibility, and they must equip themselves to ensure their good cause is valued, visible and viable.

Spreading Christmas Kindness all year around

Christmas can be a time when people are at their most generous but the many people supported by local charities need our help all year around. Volunteering is not just for Christmas.

Local groups celebrate the second round of awards from THE LOCAL FUND

Following a successful launch of the second funding round in July 2019, the LOCAL FUND Panel (made up of donors, Friends of the LOCAL FUND and representatives of Harrogate Borough Council) met in October and awarded over £35,000 to 16 groups from across the Harrogate District.

Care in Action Newsletter Autumn / Winter 2019

This Autumn / Winter edition 'Sharing, Solving and Contributing' includes news of how HARCVS and our member charities have been bringing people together and giving hope for a positive future, which seems even more vital right now.

The 12th Harrogate District Volunteering Oscars Winners are.....

Thank you to John Fox, all sponsors and partners and most of all the amazing volunteers who made the 12th Annual Volunteering Oscars Awards Ceremony on 1 November 2019 such an inspiring, humbling and special event.

NCVO Listening in Harrogate and Ripon

The HARCVS team recently welcomed Lev Pedro, NCVO Senior Consultant, to Harrogate District as he visited towns around the country. Lev shared his blog on his day with us ....   

A Year of Partnerships, Achievements and Consolidation

Thank you to everyone who joined us at our AGM event on Wednesday 9 October at The Arches @ Holy Trinity, Ripon.  

Making A Difference - our Impact Report 2018 - 19

Our HARCVS Impact Report gives some examples of how we have helped communities, charities and volunteers over the last year.

Giving Hope for a Positive Future - join us at our AGM event

Connecting and Collaborating in our local communities we work hard to promote and support local community and social action, giving hope for a positive future. 

Volunteering Oscar Nominations open for 2019

Do you know someone who does a lot for the local community? It could be a friend, family member, a volunteer you work with or even a local business. Why not show your appreciation by nominating them for a Volunteering Oscar.

Care in Action Newsletter Summer 2019

The Summer edition of our Care in Action Newsletter 'Giving Hope for a Positive Future' includes news of how HARCVS has been connecting and collaborating over the last few months to grow social and community action across Harrogate District. 

A week in the life of a HARCVS work experience student

This summer we’ve had the pleasure of being joined by Bernie, a student  on her work experience placement. We think it’s a good opportunity to be able to share with young people the experience of working in a charity team in their local community and it’s good for us to have an extra pair of hands and to see things through a fresh pair of eyes. Bernie shares her story of her week with us... 

Celebration and Inspiration for Volunteers’ Week

Volunteers' Week is a time to celebrate and say a special thank you to all the volunteers across Harrogate district for their dedication and the positive difference they make.

Care in Action Newsletter Spring 2019

The Spring edition of our Care in Action Newsletter 'Time Well Spent Helping Others' includes news of funding opportunities for local charities and community groups and recent research confirming that 'enjoyment' is a key factor in volunteering. 

Focus on Funding in 2019

This Spring and Summer we are working with our partners to bring funding opportunities to local charities and community groups in Harrogate district

THE LOCAL FUND celebrates First Anniversary

On 5 February 2019, THE LOCAL FUND for the Harrogate District partnership team was delighted to be joined by over 50 guests to celebrate the 1st anniversary of THE LOCAL FUND, kindly hosted by the Majestic Hotel.

Please help us to provide you with the service you need

Charities and community groups need two things to operate successfully – cash and volunteers. A thriving local voluntary and community sector means there is intense competition for them.

See and Being Seen with Royal Approval!

HARCVS is one of several local voluntary and community organisations which hold the Duke of York Community Initiative (DOYCI) Award. This is a Royal Award presented to community projects based in Yorkshire.

New Era at Harrogate Community House

After eighteen months of hard work behind the scenes by the trustees of both Harrogate Community House Trust (HCH) and HARCVS, responsibility for the ownership and management of Harrogate Community House has now been transferred to HARCVS. 

Care in Action Newsletter Autumn / Winter 2018

The Autumn / Winter edition of our Care in Action Newsletter includes news of exciting developments for THE LOCAL FUND for the Harrogate District and a new era at a much loved home for Harrogate voluntary and community groups. 

The 11th Harrogate District Volunteering Oscars Winners are.....

Thank you to John Fox, all sponsors and partners and most of all the amazing volunteers who made the 11th Annual Volunteering Oscars Awards Ceremony on 2 November 2018 such an inspiring and special event, with over 350 people attending.

Making A Difference - our Impact Report 2017 - 18

Our HARCVS Impact Report gives some examples of how we have helped communities, charities and volunteers over the last year.

A Year of Adjustment, Connecting and Collaborating

Thank you to everyone who joined us at our AGM event on Thursday 11th October at The Hub @ St John’s, Knaresborough.  

Your CVS, Here For You - join us at our AGM 2018 event

Connecting and Collaborating in our local communities we work hard to promote and support local community and social action. As HARCVS exists to serve our local member charities we need to know that what we are doing reflects local needs.

Care in Action Newsletter Summer 2018

The Summer edition of our Care in Action Newsletter includes news about another exciting new project HARCVS has been involved with as a partner this year, THE LOCAL LOTTO for the Harrogate District, and the recent 'Value of Small' research which found that local charities ‘reach the people others can't, provide the support others don't, stay engaged when others won't.’
 

Launch of THE LOCAL LOTTO for the Harrogate District

17th July 2018 is an important day for the Harrogate District, especially for local charities, community and voluntary groups. THE LOCAL LOTTO for the Harrogate District has launched for ticket sales.

Connecting with Ripon Together and THE LOCAL LOTTO

It’s a busy summer with Ripon Together events and the launch of THE LOCAL LOTTO for the Harrogate District. HARCVS supports these two new initiatives which aim to strengthen local community connections.

Social Media Surgery visits Knaresborough and Ripon in 2018

Back by popular demand the HARCVS Social Media Surgery visits Knaresborough on 2nd July and Ripon on 15th October. 

Celebrating Volunteers’ Week - Taking small steps and seeing new smiles

The bunting is out for Volunteers’ Week, the annual national celebration of volunteering. The Week is a chance for us to say a special thank you for the fantastic contribution of our volunteers and promote the huge range of opportunities to get involved.    

Care in Action Newsletter Spring 2018

This Spring edition of our Care In Action Newsletter  includes the latest news about two exciting new projects which HARCVS has been involved with as a partner over the last year. THE LOCAL FUND is important to grow local giving and to provide a dedicated, sustainable  fund for smaller local charities - a fund which understands the local context and local needs. Ripon Together is for people who live or work in the city, who care about its future and want to make a  difference.

Become a Friend of THE LOCAL FUND for the Harrogate District

Friends are like-minded people and organisations who wish to encourage charitable giving and gain support for THE LOCAL FUND for the Harrogate District.  A ‘Friend’ would act as an ambassador at events and meetings to encourage support for the Fund.

What would you like us to start doing, stop doing or carry on doing?

Help shape HARCVS plans and services.

There are many fantastic charities and groups with great ideas and projects making life better for people in our area. They all deserve excellent support and HARCVS would like your help so that we can improve the service we give.

Launching THE LOCAL FUND for the Harrogate District

THE LOCAL FUND for the Harrogate District will provide grant funding to local community groups and charities across the District.  It will focus on addressing local need by supporting the work of community groups and charities whose work is dedicated to improving the lives of local people. The Fund is being formed by a three-way partnership between Harrogate Borough Council, HARCVS and Two Ridings Community Foundation, in the face of ongoing pressure on public budgets and over subscription to existing funds.

Care in Action Newsletter Autumn/ Winter 2017

This Autumn/ Winter edition of our Care In Action Newsletter  includes the latest news about THE LOCAL FUND for the Harrogate District and photos from the glittering 10th Annual Harrogate District Volunteering Oscars Celebration. There are resources to support local people to manage money and keep warm and well, and for organisations to find funding, get ready for GDPR and to support good mental health in the workplace. 

Find out more about HARCVS in 2018

HARCVS Introduction Sessions last for around an hour. The session comprises informal presentations by HARCVS staff on the support services we provide, our projects and information about the local voluntary sector.

Making A Difference - our Impact Report 2016 - 17

Our HARCVS Impact Report gives some examples of how we have helped communities, charities and volunteers over the last year.

A Year of Achievements, Challenges, Determination and Exciting Plans

Thank you to everyone who joined us at our AGM event ‘Get Set for Supporting your Community' on Tuesday 10th October at  Hampsthwaite Memorial Hall  

Get Set for Supporting Your Community - join us at our AGM 2017 event

The HARCVS team would be delighted if you could join us for an informal network lunch on Tuesday 10 October from 12.30pm at Hampsthwaite Memorial Hall.  Our AGM event will take place at 1pm.  

Sian's Volunteering Blog

This summer Sian joined us as a student work placement volunteer to share her skills with HARCVS. We think it’s a good opportunity to be able to share with young people the experience of working in a charity team in their local community.

Popular Get Set for Volunteering Free Course returns in February

Beginning 1st February 2018 (1.00-4.00pm)

at Community House, 46-50 East Parade, Harrogate, HG1 5RR

Are you looking for an opportunity to build your skills, boost your confidence or refresh your CV?

An Opportunity to join our HARCVS team

We’re looking for a special person to join us at our Harrogate office and become part of our hard-working team dedicated to supporting communities, charities and volunteers across the Harrogate District.

Care in Action Newsletter Summer 2017

This Summer edition of our Care In Action Newsletter shares how we're getting set for the future, building on 50 years of history of connecting and collaborating locally and thanks to strong and supportive local relationships. 

Volunteering Oscars - 10th Anniversary Celebration

Thank you to Councillor John Fox, all sponsors and partners and most of all the amazing volunteers who made the 10th Annual Volunteering Oscars Awards Ceremony at the Old Swan Hotel on 27th October 2017 such a special event. Congratulations to the winners and highly commended volunteers in each category. 

Care in Action Newsletter Spring 2017

This Spring edition of our Care In Action Newsletter includes information about the services HARCVS will continue to provide after 1 April and a Comment from the HARCVS Board of Trustees on the change to provider and the new service model.   

HARCVS Service Announcement

From the 1st April 2017 HARCVS will cease to provide:

  • The Advice Service for charitable organisations
  • Advice for people who wish to volunteer

 

Support and Impact - What our Members Say

Thank You for to our members for sharing your views of our HARCVS service to voluntary and community organisations in our annual survey. 

Corrina’s Homeless and Vulnerable Project - Statement February 2017

From 1 March 2017 the support for homeless and vulnerable people provided by Corrina’s Homeless and Vulnerable Project (CHVP) will be relocated.

Change of provider for support for charities & volunteers in Harrogate District

It has been confirmed that from 1st April 2017 HARCVS will no longer receive funding from North Yorkshire County Council and the NHS North Yorkshire Clinical Commissioning Groups to carry out their role as the local support and development charity for the Harrogate District.

Know Where to Turn in Harrogate District

Our online Where to Turn directory is free to use and contains information about over 600 charity services, support groups and community activities across Harrogate district.

New Year Brings Many New Opportunities in Ripon

Were you one of the many people who made a New Year's Resolution this year to keep in shape, meet new people or learn new skills?

Care in Action Newsletter Autumn/Winter 2016

The HARCVS Care In Action Newsletter is published 3 times a year and contains articles and information on a range of topics such as special events, training, consultations

HARCVS Funding File - The Small Grants edition

The latest Autumn/ Winter 2016 HARCVS Funding File contains details of over 120 funders to help your community project.  

Where To Turn for information, support and opportunities

Thank you to everyone who joined us at our AGM event 2016 to look back over the last year and to look ahead at the challenges we face together.

Making A Difference - our Impact Report 2015 - 16

Our HARCVS Impact Report gives some examples of how we have helped communities, charities and volunteers over the last year.

HARCVS AGM - Where to Turn in Harrogate District

Celebrate local voluntary and community action and face opportunities and challenges together. 

We would be delighted if you could join us for an informal network lunch from 12.30pm.   

Small Charities Week 2016

As an independent local support and development charity we provide specialist support to around 200 small charitable groups.

 

HARCVS Funding File - Special Health edition

The Summer 2016 HARCVS Funding File is a special edition - a must read if you need funding to make life better for adults in the Harrogate District.  

Care in Action for Summer 2016

The Care In Action Newsletter is published 3 times a year and contains articles and information on a range of topics such as special events, training, consultations, new services and resources and news from HARC

Practical and Financial Support to help residents stay Warm and Well in winter

Over twenty charities and organisations across North Yorkshire, including HARCVS and HELP, have joined forces to bring warmth to cold homes and tackle rising rates of fuel poverty.

Advice and support for people affected by flooding

The community facebook page Yorkshire Floods is co-ordinating offers of support.

HARCVS AGM 2015
Making Harrogate District Happier for Everyone 

Thank you to everyone who joined us to look back over the last year and to look ahead at the challenges we face together.

This year we worked hard  

Abu's Volunteering Blog

In summer 2015 Abu joined us as a student volunteer to share his skills with HARCVS. As a student of accountancy, Abu’s experience and ideas have been valuable looking at budgets, costings, processes and funding applications.

Becky's Volunteering Blog

In summer 2015 Rebecca joined us as a student volunteer to share her skills with HARCVS.

In this blog, Rebecca shares her story of her time with us... 

HARCVS AGM 2014

This year, HARCVS hosted a joint event with Healthwatch North Yorkshire on 21 October bringing people together to look at how we can reduce rural disadvantage, loneliness and isolation and improve health and wellbeing in our district. 

Suzanne's Volunteering Blog

During July 2014 the HARCVS team was delighted to welcome Suzanne Elsdon on a 2 week work placement. Suzanne was a really helpful member of our team and enthusiastically completed a variety of different jobs. In this blog Suzanne shares her story of her time with us...