Wednesday 4 December 2013

Denbighshire Voluntary Services Council

A number of vacancies available
Visit the website for more details :

http://www.dvsc.co.uk/english/vacancies.htm


Worried about how much you worry…?

Try a Free Coping with Life course


Many people experience anxiety, low mood, stress, low self-esteem or anger. Dealing with these emotions can make life difficult. The Coping with Life programme is designed to help YOU make positive changes.

Free Course
Managing Anxiety
Rhyl Town Hall 9.30 to 12.30
January 22nd and 29th, February 5th and 12th

TO BOOK A PLACE OR FOR FURTHER DETAILS CONTACT: Ben du Ross
Tel: 01745 812461 or mobile 07763 574290
Email: benduross@valeofclwydmind.org.uk



Monday 2 December 2013

Scams Awareness Project Volunteer Opportunities

Scams Awareness Project

The project

Age Cymru has been funded by Comic Relief to deliver this groundbreaking pilot project over the next 2 years.

The scams awareness project aims to help protect older people from financial-based scams in the local authority areas of Conwy, Denbighshire, Merthyr Tydfil and Rhondda Cynon Taf in year one, and extending to Monmouthshire and Gwynedd in year two.  These areas were chosen because of their high proportion of older residents and an associated high frequency of dementia.  These areas are also associated with economic deprivation or rural isolation.

The project will recruit up to six older volunteers in each area, who will deliver workshops, in pairs, to older people and their families/carers.  The sessions will provide practical information and resources to help make the participants aware of tactics employed by scammers and empower them to protect themselves.
The volunteers will be recruited and supported by two part-time Project Officers who were appointed in July 2013.  The Project Officer for North Wales is Dawn Evans and the South Wales Project Officer is Rosalyn Williams.

The Evidence

The Alzheimer's Society published a report called 'Short Changed:  Protecting people with dementia from financial abuse', 2012
40% of older people in the UK with dementia are regularly targeted by scam mail some of whom have lost money by entering competitions.
15% had been approached by rogue traders or had unnecessary work done.
70% were routinely targeting by rogue traders over the telephone.
62% had been approached by unscrupulous cold callers or doorstep sales people.
Volunteers
Local volunteers will be supported and trained to deliver awareness sessions about how to identify scams and take preventative action.
Volunteers will deliver the sessions in pairs in pre organised venues.  Ongoing support will be provided by the Project Officers and additional support will be available through peer networking opportunities organised by the project officers.  This will enable volunteers to speak to others about the sessions they have delivered, to celebrate the outcomes from the project, and to share issues or challenges that may have arisen. .
Volunteers will be required to attend 2 days induction and training.  The training will include sessions on dementia, scams, safeguarding older people and skills on how to deliver the sessions.  Volunteer expenses will be paid for associated travel costs.

Background

Age Cymru is concerned that in February 2012 -2013 over 2500 incidences of older people being scammed were reported. To the criminal it is an attractive crime with high yields and minimal risk of getting caught. To older people it increases mental and physical ill health often resulting in loss of confidence and self worth and experiencing depression and anxiety.
The safeguarding programme has been raising awareness of scams and the impact they have on older people for the last six years.  Part of that awareness raising was the development of a scams toolkit which included a door hanger.  Over 30,000 of these have been distributed to older people across Wales.
The evidence gathered by the project has also led Age Cymru to develop a specific policy campaign on scams and swindles which launched in June 2013.  The aim of this campaign is to convince government and communication companies to increase the protection afforded to older people from scams.
Evidence also indicated that more direct work with older people was required to make them aware of scams and to empower them to say no to mail, telephone and doorstep scams.  People with dementia are particularly vulnerable to these types of scams.  This project focuses on people with dementia and their carers and seeks to take a preventative approach.

Contact us
Could you be a volunteer for us or know someone who would like an opportunity to volunteer for a new and innovative project?
Are you a professional that would like more information or to get involved with the project?

Please contact us:

Dawn Evans
North Wales Project Officer
Dawn.evans@agecymru.org.uk
01352 706228

Ros Williams
South Wales Project Officer
Rosalyn.williams@agecymru.org.uk
02920 43 1552


Vacancy With Denbighshire County Council

Resident Inclusion Officer 
Housing and Community Development – Ruthin / Rhyl 
Grade 6 - £21,067 - £23,945 per annum 
37 Hours Per Week 
Permanent Vacancy 
 This post has been created to work within the newly created Neighbourhood Development Team within Housing Services. The post holder will work as part of the team delivering high quality services that matter to our customers and communities. The role will include developing opportunities to enhance resident inclusion across our neighbourhoods and supporting community based projects. Extensive experience in a community development or related role is essential. If you would like to discuss any aspect of the post, please call Sarah Mylchreest on 01824 712816 If you are interested in this vacancy, please apply on-line via the website www.denbighshire.gov.uk  For alternative methods of applying please contact Customer Services on 01824 706101 or email hrdirect@denbighshire.gov.uk. CVs must be accompanied by a completed Denbighshire County Council application form.  We regret that we are unable to reply to all applications. If you have not received a reply within three weeks of the closing date, you must assume that you have not been short listed for interview.  Closing Date: 12 December 2013 Interview Date: 18 December 2013 

Wednesday 27 November 2013

Rhyl Jobcentre Twitter

RHYL JOBCENTRE IS NOW ON TWITTER

 
Follow us
@RhylJCP
 
@CanolfanGwaithYRhyl
 
For jobs and opportunities in the area, and job search information and tips

Friday 22 November 2013

LOOKING FOR WORK?


Are you aged 50 or over living in Denbighshire or Conwy and currently unemployed or economically inactive?

YES?

We are currently offering opportunities for you!


An ILM ( Intermediate Labour Market ) allows you to undertake paid work, gain training and get support to work towards job sustainability or using your new skills to gain other suitable employment.  Jobs matched to your skills and interests, up to 30 hours a week and for up to 16 weeks (initially).  Work specific training provided and Essential Skills for Life.  


To find out more contact Open Doors in the White Rose Centre between 9:30am – 12:30pm
Or email opendoors@rhylcitystrategy.co.uk
or call 01745 350204



Thursday 26 September 2013

Communities First Officer (Learning) - Temporary until 31/03/2015

Communities First Officer (Learning) - Temporary until 31/03/2015
£23,599 per annum.
Do you have a passion for community engagement, and the drive and dedication to support the delivery of learning programmes that will benefit priority communities in Denbighshire?
  • A delivery focused role working within the Denbighshire Communities First Cluster
  • Working closely with communities to deliver learning programme work across the region
  • Engaging and co-ordinating with key 3rd sector groups, organisations and volunteers
  •  An opportunity to make a difference by tackling learning deficiencies in the community
When you join the Co-operative Group as a Communities First Officer, you’ll become part of an initiative which is helping to impact social deprivation across Wales. Working closely with the Lead Officer, you’ll aim to ensure that learning deficiencies in the community are tackled by supporting the process of developing, co-ordinating and implementing the Delivery Plan (including Activity Sheets and Community Involvement Plan) for the community.
KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES
 Assist the ongoing development of the Communities First Cluster by liaising with the Cluster Members and key organisations to ensure communication channels are maintained and support is provided in line with WG guidance and Best Practice
 Co-ordinate with key groups and organisations active within the Communities First to ensure the outcomes of the Cluster Delivery Plan for the area are delivered to target
 To assist in the co-ordination of support and resources provided by voluntary, public and private bodies for the Cluster Delivery Plan and community groups so that all projects are fully resourced.
 To provide information, guidance and training to local community groups, proactively helping develop and support new groups were appropriate so that local projects have the skills and knowledge to be successful
 To actively support the local Communities First Cluster Board, updating the board and sub group meetings where appropriate to promote the activities of the Cluster area
 Support the Lead Officer in managing all Government and Lead Delivery Body requests for funding information, project updates and budget outlines as appropriate, providing regular report for the Boards and monitory requests for grant claims as required
KEY EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS
·         Knowledge of Communities First programme and / or community led regeneration initiatives
·         Experience of working with community groups and community representatives
·          Knowledge and experience of applying for a range of funding sources available for community groups
·         Extensive experience of developing groups and projects
·         Ability to work with a wide range of people and organisations
·          Ability to work unsupervised and on own initiative but also work effectively as part of a team
·         Flexibility to work outside normal office hours
·         Strong communication and presentation skills
Please note that this role will involve travel around the region, and will require the job holder to work evenings and weekends in line with the demands of the position. All applicants must have access to their own transport- all travel costs will be reimbursed.

We are passionate about equal opportunities and welcome a broad diversity of talent to apply.

The Co-operative Group reserves the right to cease any advertising prior to the published closing date for a role that receives a high number of applications.

To find out more, please visit www.co-operative.jobs
then click ‘Search Jobs and Apply’. Look under ‘Group Head Office’.
Job Reference: 22246



Communities First Lead Officer (Learning) - Temporary until 31/03/2015

Communities First Lead Officer (Learning) - Temporary until 31/03/2015
£30,933 per annum
Can be considered as a secondment opportunity for internal & external candidates
Are you an experienced leader with a passion for community engagement, and the drive and dedication to deliver learning programmes that will benefit priority communities in Denbighshire?
  • A leadership and delivery focused role working within the Denbighshire Communities First Cluster
  • Working closely with Government agencies to deliver learning programme work across the region
  • Engaging with communities, 3rd sector organisations and local Co-operative businesses to deliver a locally agreed Community Involvement plan
  • Taking the strategic lead on learning theme
When you join the Co-operative Group as a Communities First Lead Officer, you’ll become part of an initiative which is helping to impact social deprivation across Wales. Working closely with the Cluster Manager, Cluster Board, residents and partner agencies, you’ll be responsible for preparing, implementing and monitoring a local annually agreed Delivery Plan (including Activity Sheets and Community Involvement Plan) for the community.  The plan will connect to a range of strategies that impact on the area of focus.
KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES
  • Working with the Cluster Manager and Cluster Board, while liaising with a range of organisations, to plan and implement the work plan to ensure funding from a wide range of sources is secured and imaginative and sustainable strategic solutions to issues are identified and developed, within the area of focus
  • To be responsible for the management of the Officers within the team, supporting them to ensure they are fully engaged, fulfilling their potential and delivering their goals and objectives
  •  To comply with all relevant policies and procedures of the Co-operative Group to provide a suitable working environment for the CF Cluster team
  • Attend Cluster meetings and community involvement meetings, to deliver updates and advice on progress, as required by the Cluster Manager. As part of the Cluster team, provide support and assistance to the Community Involvement Plan and Cluster structures, including Volunteer and Cluster representative development
  •  To apply the Communities First and other funding (e.g. National Lottery, Children in Need) in order to assist in the delivery of the Delivery Plan for the area of focus and priorities of the local Cluster Board within the grant conditions of the Welsh Government and other funding bodies
  • Support the Cluster Manager in producing regular monitoring and ad hoc reports as required by the Programme Manager, Welsh Government or Co-operative Group for the administration of the Communities First Programm
  •  To contribute to the development of links between Communities First project based work and Co-operative Businesses with the relevant area of focus
  •  To plan projects and deliver work in conjunction with the Results Based Accountability (RBA) model (or other Government reporting processes), ensuring that all work undertaken by team members is clearly focused on performance measures agreed with the Welsh Government
KEY EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS
·         Very good knowledge of the Communities First programme and / or community led project work
·         Knowledge and understanding of thematic area of focus
·         Experience of managing and leading a small team
·          Extensive knowledge and experience of working with the community and the statutory sector
·          Knowledge and experience of applying for a wide range of funding sources;
·         Extensive experience of developing and managing projects
·         Ability to create and maintain relationships with a wide range of organisations and individuals
·         Excellent communication and presentation skills and good IT skills
·         Flexibility to work outside normal office hours
·         Clean drivers licence

Please note that this role will involve travel around the region, and will require the job holder to work evenings and weekends in line with the demands of the position. All applicants must have access to their own transport- all travel costs will be reimbursed.

We are passionate about equal opportunities and welcome a broad diversity of talent to apply.

The Co-operative Group reserves the right to cease any advertising prior to the published closing date for a role that receives a high number of applications.
To find out more, please visit www.co-operative.jobs

then click ‘Search Jobs and Apply’. Look under ‘Group Head Office’. Job Reference: 22244 

Monday 26 August 2013

“Taste of Training”

An Engagement Gateway Project, delivered by RCS @ Taste Academy Training Cafe/Restaurant
Hospitality & Catering
 Take a journey into the world of hospitality and catering.  If you’re passionate about people, food and customer service, this could be the career for you.  Courses last for 6 weeks at 15 hours a week.
 Creative Media & Events
Are you a visionary? A creative? Interested in a future career organising exciting events?  Learn the skills you need to plan and deliver an event on budget and on time.  Courses last for 6 weeks, 15 hours a week.  

What happens on the course?
Courses last for six weeks, fifteen hours per week. Courses are based in Rhyl, with some outreach trips in the local area. Each course ends with a celebration event. Further details on each course available on request. (see attached course dates).
What's in it for me?
- Experience working with local businesses
- The chance to work in a team
- Opportunities to improve your skills and confidence
- 1-1 support towards getting a job after the course is over
Do I need to know anything before the course?
No! Come as you are, just be willing to learn!
Will it Affect my benefits? 

It should not affect your benefits, but if you are in receipt of benefits you will need to let your advisor know that you are planning to attend.
Is it for me?
The courses are for anyone who are:
 - Living within Denbighshire and Conwy
- In receipt of Incapacity Benefit / ESA / JSA / Formal notice of redundancy
- 16-25 years of age and not in education, employment or training
 - Women / People from Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic communities / 50+ / Lone Parents / People with limiting health condition or disability
X - Those on the Work Programme, about to go onto the Work Programme or those who have finished on the Work Programme with Job Centre Plus ARE NOT eligible. 
 
How much does it cost?
Nothing! We cover your travel expenses if necessary and if you're a single parent, we will support you with your child care costs during your time on the course.
How do I apply?
You can register your interest at Open Doors in Rhyl's White Rose Shopping Centre. Pop in Monday to Friday from 10am till 12pm or ring 01745 350204 and ask to speak to Carl or Caroline.


Open Days are also being held at Open Doors from 10am – 12pm on the following dates:- 

Tuesday 27th August 2013 
Tuesday 22nd October 2013 
Tuesday 7th January 2014 
Tuesday 25th February 2014
Engagement Gateway is funded by the European Social Fund and managed by the Wales Council for Voluntary Action.



Wednesday 21 August 2013

Tidy Wales Week

This September we are calling on the people of Wales to take part in a week- long, nationwide, cleanup of littered black spots in towns, villages and the countryside.

Tidy Wales Week will take place between 16 - 22 September 2013 and we are hoping that people living in every corner of the country will show how much they care for their local area by getting involved in hands-on, problem-solving action.

Last year nearly 10,000 people of all ages did their bit to clean up their neighbourhoods and as a result many long standing litter blots on the landscape were removed. The week of action resulted in thousands of bags of litter being recovered by volunteers.

Get involved!

Tidy Wales Week is for everyone from a group of neighbours to schools and local businesses...this is your opportunity to get involved and make a difference in your local community!

Register your clean up event today and you will be entered into a prize draw with the chance of winning £100 worth of National Garden Centre vouchers.


Need help? Our project officers can offer assistance in organising clean-ups so make sure you get in touch with your local officer today!

Wednesday 31 July 2013

Looking to buy/sell/swap good quality used school uniform

Then look no further - a facebook group has been created to enable the people of Denbighshire to sell/swap/giveaway old school uniform. Click on the following link https://www.facebook.com/groups/538251532907805/

Tuesday 30 July 2013

Join in the fun with Families First

Families first is holding a fun day at Ysgol Tir Morfa on 11th August 2013 10am - 3pm. There will be loads to do including, games,den building,face painting,cake decorating, foot spas & hand massages and much more. So for a fun filled day out put this date in your calendar!

Friday 19 July 2013

Local group gets charity registration!

Jigsaw are celebrating after receiving confirmation from The Charity Commission that they have achieved Charity Status.

On 16 September 2011 two parents, who were feeling isolated and alone following their children receiving a diagnosis of ADHD and Autism, attended a meeting at The Oak Tree Centre looking for support and advice for their families.   Following this meeting Jigsaw was formed.

Since its creation Jigsaw has opened group sessions in Denbigh, Rhyl and Colwyn Bay and will be opening a new group session on Wednesday 6 November 2013 at the newly refurbished Canolfan Ni, Corwen.  Further sessions will be opened during 2014.

Jigsaw provides emotional support, practical advice, guidance, empathy and understanding to adults, young persons, and families of persons, who have been diagnosed, are being assessed, or are showing behaviour traits of Autism and/or ADHD.  Jigsaw also provides  opportunities for the whole family to interact together in a low sensory environment during our monthly Family Sessions and day trips.

Donna Reid, Founder of Jigsaw, stated "Jigsaw is a wonderful support network for our adults, young persons, children and their families who are usually left feeling isolated and alone when their child/young person is diagnosed with Autism and/or ADHD which can have a detrimental effect upon the whole family. We believe it is paramount that public awareness is raised of the difficulties our children experience on a daily basis as well as the amazing Abilities they possess.  We firmly believe that support is more than just a word, it's an Action".

We would also like to welcome Miss Sarah Davies who will be our Family Support Worker Volunteer.  Sarah will be running our Denbigh group as from September 2013. Sarah will be working within the community of Denbigh to raise awareness of Autism and ADHD as well as providing emotional and practical support to families.  If you are interested in becoming a Volunteer for Jigsaw please visit our Volunteer page on our website.
For more information please visit our website: www.jigsawsupport.org ~
Contact us: Telephone: 07799 848270 ~ Email: contact@jigsawsupport.org ~ Facebook: Jigsaw Jigsaw, helping you put the pieces back together

Friday 12 July 2013

Appointment of members to the Wales Programme monitoring committee for European structural & investment funds 2014-2020

Wales is expecting to be awarded a multi-billion pound investment from the EU to take forward the 2014-2020 European Structural and Investment Fund programmes (ESI). The ESI Funds managed in Wales include the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), European Social Fund (ESF), and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD).

This is the first time that Member States and regions are specifically encouraged to set up a joint monitoring committee for programmes financed by the ESI Funds and this provides Wales with an opportunity to further enhance the co-ordination and management of the funds.

The Welsh Government attaches great importance to the principle of partnership in developing, implementing and monitoring the ESI Funds. To this end it will seek to recruit members who can bring to the Committee knowledge and experience from national, regional and local authorities and groups, business and enterprise, the rural and agricultural sector, educational institutions, third sector bodies, and representatives from civil society, environmental and equality bodies.  

Candidates are expected to apply their own independent mindset rather than represent the views of any particular constituency or interest group.

The remit of the Committee is to monitor the effectiveness of the ESI programme implementation, with functions and tasks determined by the EC Regulations for each of the component funds. This will include examining progress made in delivering agreed programme objectives and suggesting or examining modifications to the agreed programmes. Candidates will need to demonstrate their engagement, experience and interest in ESI funds and the ability to act as an effective board member.

Committee members will receive £198 per day based on an expected time commitment of 8 – 10 days per annum. Travel and subsistence expenses will also be available, as meetings will generally be held in the Welsh Government offices in Merthyr Tydfil. Appointments will initially run for three and a half years, renewable subject to satisfactory review to a maximum of ten years.

The Welsh Government is committed to making appointments to public bodies, whether paid or unpaid, by fair and open competition.  Although appointments to the

PMC do not come within the remit of the Commissioner for Public Appointments these appointments will be made using a process which takes into account the Commissioner’s Code of Practice on Ministerial Appointments to Public Bodies as best practice. 

It is the policy of the Welsh Government to promote and integrate equality of opportunity into all aspects of its business including appointments to public bodies.  Applications are welcomed and encouraged from all groups and we ensure that no eligible candidate for public office receives less favourable treatment on the grounds
of age, disability, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or religious affiliation.  The principles of fair and open competition will apply and appointments will be made on merit.
 For further details and to apply go to http://wales.gov.uk/publicappointments or for queries contact the HR Helpdesk on 029 2082 5454 or email
The closing date for receipt of applications is 25 July 2013.  Application forms received after this date will not be considered. It is expected to hold interviews during August 2013.

Successful candidate will be invited to attend induction sessions, with first PMC meeting likely to be held in December 2013 although the Committee may be required to meet in shadow form prior to December.


It is intended to interview the top 10 shortlisted candidates 

Vacancy/Appointment of chair of Betsi Cadwaladr universsity health board

Local Health Boards are responsible for planning, designing, developing and securing the delivery of primary, community, in-hospital care services and - where appropriate - specialised services for the citizens in their respective areas to meet identified local needs within the national policy and standards framework set out by the Minister for Health and Social Services.
Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (UHB) is the largest health organisation in Wales providing a full range of primary, community, mental health and acute hospital services for a population of around 676,000 people across the six counties of North Wales (Anglesey, Gwynedd, Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire and Wrexham) - as well as some parts of mid Wales, Cheshire and Shropshire.

The Chair will be accountable to the Minister for Health and Social Services for the performance of the Board and its effective governance, for upholding the values of the NHS, and for promoting the confidence of the staff, patients and communities across Wales on behalf of the Board. The Chair also has a responsibility to ensure that the UHB continues to deliver against national objectives set by the Welsh Government.

The Chair will be appointed for up to 4 years and the post is based on a notional time commitment of a minimum of 15 days per month, but this will be subject to organisational demands. The Chair will be eligible to receive Band 4 remuneration which equates to £69,840 per annum.

We are particularly interested in receiving applications from under-represented groups such as women, disabled people and those from ethnic minorities.

For more information or to apply go to www.wales.gov.uk/publicappointments or for queries contact HR Helpdesk at the Welsh Government by e-mail: hr-helpdesk@wales.gsi.gov.uk or telephone: 029 2082 5454.

Closing date for receipt of completed application forms is 29 July 2013. 
It is expected that the interviews will be held in August 2013


Is your goal to go to university?

Glyndwr University open day is being held on Saturday 17 August 2013, offering the chance to visit one of the UK’s fastest growing and most dynamic universities. If you would like to study at university but have no idea whether you will get in or how much it will cost, Saturday 17th August is the day you can find out!

Academic staff from subject areas will be available from 10am – 2pm to discuss courses.  There will also be advisors available to talk about applications, finance, student support and accommodation in greater detail. Demonstrations will also take place throughout the day, including a flight simulator and the Chinese medicine clinic.

These are exciting times for the university, with major successes including the opening of two new multi-million pound facilities, the Centre for the Creative Industries and Centre for the Child, Family and Society. The university’s recent acquisition of the Glyndwr University Racecourse Stadium and Colliers Park training facilities reflect our commitment to ensuring our students have the facilities and support they need to succeed.

Students leave university well equipped for the world of work, with an outstanding 94.7 per cent employability figure for our 2010 graduates in the most recent Destination of Leavers from Higher Education survey.

With the lowest fees in Wales, Glyndwr University has recognised the need to support students and help them avoid becoming burdened with debt. THERE IS NO UPFRONT FEE! YOU WILL ONLY PAY YOUR LOAN OFF WHEN YOU ARE EARNING OVER £21,500pa and even then it will only be a small percentage of your monthly wage.

There are a number of new initiatives rolling out this September, including the £1k cash boost for full-time students on selected courses, £2k work placements for first year undergraduates and the £1k accommodation award for students starting the BSc (Hons) Health, Wellbeing & Community programme. For Care Leavers we have a number of accommodation bursaries offering 50% discount on your first year accommodation costs if these are not covered by your local authority. For further information on these incentives, see www.glyndwr.ac.uk/en/feesandstudentfinance

If you are at school, the open day has been strategically scheduled a few days after A-level results day and students will have access to information regarding Clearing, and how to apply to Glyndwr directly, during their visit. We still have places available across a range of subject areas for students who are interested in commencing study this September.


Whatever your educational background, come along and find out for yourself! You can book a place for the open day or by calling 01978 293439. Booking is preferred as this enables us to plan the day to meet your needs but feel free to just turn up on the day!

Monday 1 July 2013

Welsh Government School Uniform Grant Scheme 2013/14

 
Pupils entering Year 7 of maintained secondary schools in Wales in the 2013/14 school year who are eligible for free school meals will be eligible for the school uniform grant; as will pupils in special schools, special needs resource bases and pupil referral units in Wales who are aged 11 at the start of the 2013/14 school year and who are eligible for free school meals.More information can be found on the Welsh Government website: http://wales.gov.uk/topics/educationandskills/schoolshome/parents/uniform/?skip=1&lang=en

Tuesday 25 June 2013

Rhyl Community Market to help budding entrepreneurs

A market is offering free stalls for people wanting to start up businesses in a bid to encourage local entrepreneurs in one of Wales' most deprived areas.
Rhyl Community Market is offering 10 pitches for up to eight weeks at a time for budding business people, community groups and charities. The aim is for them to build up enough capital to develop their businesses. Those behind the project hope it will help start community enterprises.
Denbigh Voluntary Services Council said it was helping people to help themselves. It hopes the new stall holders will offer something different to the outdoor market, which is run on Thursdays and Saturdays, in the town's high street, selling unique, local goods.
In turn, it says the market would act as a good place to start a business, with help offered to arrange a deal for a permanent pitch at the market in the long term.
"Who knows, after building up in the market, they could then open a unit or a shop," said Sandy Williams, of the Denbigh Voluntary Services Council (DVSC).
"It is a low-risk way of trying out a business idea and we would then work with them to support them and point them in the right direction if they want to carry on after the eight weeks."
The free stalls initiative plans to work with further education colleges to encourage business students to take up the offer of a stall.

DVSC latest newsletter

To read the latest news from our local voluntary sector click on the following link
http://www.dvsc.co.uk/english/documents/VolunteerJune2013.pdf

Monday 20 May 2013

Community Development Cymru

Will be holding a Networking opportunity on:

Friday 31st May 2013, 1pm - 3pm At Wellington Road Community Centre,

An invitation from Turning Round the Telescope to all those providing services directly or indirectly to the homeless community or whose services have a focus on homelessness prevention in the Rhyl area .

• An opportunity to find out more about homelessness in the Rhyl area

• An opportunity to share informa on on your organisa on and services

• To begin to map organisa ons and services

• To discuss issues and successes

• To iden fy gaps in provision

• To begin to examine solu ons

• To discuss the opportunities available through Turning Round the Telescope

The session will be facilitated by Nia Jones,Turning Round the Telescope, Community Development Cymru

Turning Round the Telescope is funded by the Big Lo"ery to carry out ac on research in the Rhyl area examining the barriers to accessing services which impact on well-being faced by the homeless community and those faced by service providers who deliver the services .

The project aims in me to bring the two sides together to discuss the issues, to identi fy gaps and improve service delivery and take up.

To book a place at this event, please contact Emma Smart on: 01686 627377 or email: emma@cdcymru.org
G2G COMMUNITIES CIC BRING INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATION TO RHYL

LEGO® Education Innovation Studio

G2G Communities CIC has secured a comprehensive partnership with LEGO® Education to develop a community based LEGO® Education Innovation Studio in the centre of Rhyl. This new social enterprise has been awarded funding through the Cyfenter initiative, supported by the European Regional Development Funding. The Studio will be based in the new North Wales Innovation Centre (NWIC), based within a new and exciting development by Denbighshire County Council at the Bee and Station Hotel. The official opening will take place in September 2013. This New initiative will cover the whole of North Wales and enable individuals and organisations to develop their skills and competences leading toward full and rewarding careers.

Moira Lockitt, G2G Director, said ‘this initiative will make learning Science; Technology; Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects fun and exciting’. ‘At this moment in time there is a shortfall of some 40,000 engineers in the UK every year and this initiative will help to ensure that businesses moving into the North Wales area have people with the necessary skills and motivation available to move into employment’. We have a number of other ideas for the use of LEGO® resources in the future and have already had significant interest from Schools within North Wales and some local businesses looking to up-skill their workforce’. ‘The unique thing about this initiative is that it is focused on community learning, family learning, business/industry and getting people back into employment’. ‘We hope to make learning fun, exciting and rewarding so that individuals will want to continue their education and training and move into higher levels of learning offered by College, Open University or Higher Education’. ‘Another unique feature will be our Mobile Learning initiative. With this we will be able to take the LEGO® resources into areas of North Wales, the workplace, Schools and a range of other venues where it is needed the most’.

A spokesperson for LEGO® Education said: ‘We are delighted to support an initiative such as this because it serves the community, the economy and the best interests of young people. Students need to learn skills that are relevant and applicable for their and our futures and it is great to see local organisations stepping up to help that happen.’

‘Since 1980, LEGO® Education has delivered hands-on, curriculum-based resources for teachers and students worldwide. LEGO Education believes a hands-on, minds-on approach helps students actively take ownership of the learning process and develop 21st-century skills such as creative thinking and problem solving through real-life, engaging experiences.’

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Further information from G2G Communities CIC is available from:

Dr William Lockitt – e-mail bill@g2gcommunities.org

Moira Lockitt – e-mail moira@g2gcommunities.org

Telephone: 01745 334482

Web site: http://www.g2gcommunities.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/North-Wales-Innovation-Centre/108695612634355

Monday 13 May 2013

‘Understanding Employment Law and Pensions’
B2C Professionals Workshop 

Taking an informal and interactive insight into employment law and pensions, and how they affect your community group or business.

Brought to you courtesy of Gamlins Solicitors LLP and the Glass Onion Cafe, via Denbighshire Voluntary Services Council’s (DVSC)

Business Supporting Communities (B2C) Project
Friday, 7th June 2013
3pm – 5pm
The Glass Onion Cafe, Denbigh

Further Information

What is the Business Supporting Communities (B2C) Project?


The North Wales Business Supporting Communities (B2C) Project aims to create mutually beneficial relationships between businesses and community groups, through six key initiatives. B2C is a partnership project delivered by the six North Wales County Voluntary Councils – the charitable support organisations for local voluntary action. More information can be found on the website: www.b2cwales.co.uk

What does this workshop involve and who is it for? 
Gamlins Solicitors LLP, who hold the prestigious High Sheriff of Clwyd Community Award for their voluntary work in the community, will deliver a workshop on employment law and pensions. The workshop is open to any community groups or businesses who wish to gain legal information, advice or guidance on this topic. This is offered without charge through the B2C Professionals initiative. Also recognising the value of collaborating with and supporting local businesses and community groups, The Glass Onion Cafe have kindly offered to host the event on a voluntary basis, via the B2C Share initiative.

What is the B2C Professionals initiative?
B2C Professionals links a broad range of specialist professional firms to a variety of community groups, which lack the resources to pay for professional advice, via cost-free workshops and bespoke one-to-one support sessions.
What is the B2C Share initiative?
B2C Share is an online facility allowing businesses to share facilities and spare training course places with local community groups.

Joining Instructions
Please complete a booking form and return by no later than 5pm on Monday 3rd June 2013. Places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. Places will be evenly distributed between community groups and businesses. Whilst places are offered free of charge to community groups and businesses, failure to attend without prior notification will result in a £15 admin charge.

Requesting a Booking Form / Further Information

Please contact Sarah Barker, B2C Admin Assistant for a booking form:
Sarah.barker@b2cwales.co.uk / 01492 523847 / 01745 353110. 

Afternoon Tea - DVSC

Volunteers’ Afternoon Tea
Town Hall, Denbigh - 7th June 2013 


Due to popular demand, we are organizing a Volunteers’ Afternoon Tea, to recognize and celebrate the vital work that volunteers carry out within their communities. The Tea will take place at the Town Hall, Denbigh LL16 3TB on Friday 7th June 2013 from 1.30 to 3.30pm.

In order for me to finalize the necessary arrangements, I would be grateful if you could please return the pro-forma below to me by Friday 24th May at the latest. If you would like a certificate to acknowledge the work carried out by volunteers for your organisation, please let me know.

Please contact Gaynor Jones, Volunteer Development Officer, DVSC
01824 702441     E-mail: gaynor@dvsc.co.uk

By no later than Friday 24th May 2013

Care and Treatment Planning

Care & Treatment Planning 

The Mental Health Measure (2010) states that all people who access secondary mental health services have a legal right to a Care and Treatment Plan. The Care and Treatment Plan uses a holistic approach to make sure that people’s wants and needs are identified. The main focus of a Care and Treatment Plan is on the person’s recovery rather than their mental ill health. Care and Treatment Plans will replace the Care Programme Approach (CPA).

Unllais are holding a series of events across North Wales for service users and their carers to come along and find out more about the new Care and Treatment Plans. These sessions will focus on what you can expect from a Care and Treatment Plan, how it will impact on you as a service user and talk you through the process of how they should be filled in.

1pm - 4pm,Thursday, 6 June 2013 
at Denbighshire Voluntary Services Council, Well Street, Ruthin 
(a light lunch will be provided) 
To book your place 
contact: Hilary Roberts 01745 818720 or email pacd@unllais.co.uk 
Travel Expenses will be reimbursed 
........................................................................... 

Welfare Reform Awareness Session 
10am - 12 noon, Wednesday, 12 June 2013 
at Eirianfa Community Centre, Denbigh 
The Welfare Reform Session will provide information on Personal Independence Payment, Social Fund changes, Benefit Cap and Universal Credit. 
If you would like to attend, contact Hilary 

Wednesday 1 May 2013

Bedroom tax will cost taxpayers more, says Shelter Cymru

7 Mar 2013 source Wales Online

THE bedroom tax could force tenants in Wales into the private rented sector at a greater cost to taxpayers, housing charity Shelter Cymru warns today.

THE bedroom tax could force tenants in Wales into the private rented sector at a greater cost to taxpayers, housing charity Shelter Cymru warns today.

New rules on under-occupancy of social housing would cut the housing benefits of tenants with unused bedrooms.

But that could force many tenants to move to smaller properties in the private sector because of the chronic shortage of one-and two-bedroom social housing properties.

Figures published by the charity revealed ‘startling differences’ in rent levels, and the Local Housing Allowance rate for two-bedroom privately rented properties outstrip those for three-bed social housing.

In Gwynedd, an average three bedroom property rent is £71.85, while the allowance for a two-bed privately rented home is £87.69, some 22% more. In Rhyl, the difference is £81.25 compared to £103.85, or 28% more.

In Swansea, the allowance for a two-bedroom private property is 46% higher than the rent for a three-bedroom house in the social sector. In Cardiff the difference is 42%, and in Wrexham 37%.

John Puzey, director of Shelter Cymru, said: “These figures really highlight the absurdity of this policy. Not only will the bedroom tax result in massive stress and disruption for families and communities, it will end up costing the taxpayer more.”

Households that were previously in safe, long-term social tenancies would also have to face the insecurity of short-term private tenancies and an increased risk of homelessness.

“We have always argued that the bedroom tax just penalises social tenants for a situation that is generally beyond their control because there simply aren’t enough smaller properties into which they could downsize. Now we can see clearly that the policy makes no sense financially either.”

The charity called on the Welsh Government, social landlords and councils to act to minimise the worst effects and has put forward five proposals.

Social landlords should pledge that nobody will be evicted for Bedroom Tax arrears, it said. Local authorities should also ensure that anyone evicted for Bedroom Tax arrears should not be deemed intentionally homeless.

A DWP spokesperson said: “These claims ignore the fact that when someone moves into private rented accommodation, the social sector property they vacate can be moved into by someone else. Changes to housing benefit in the social sector will save the taxpayer around £500m a year.

“It’s only right that we return fairness to the system and ensure a better use of housing when there are millions of households on social housing waiting lists, and many tenants living in overcrowded conditions. We are providing councils in Wales with more than £6.1m this year to support people and vulnerable groups who might be affected by these changes.”
MEASLES – information for partner organisations

10,000 (10%) children under the age of 18 who live within the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board area are at risk of catching the disease as they haven’t had the 2 MMR jabs needed.

The Health Board has arranged vaccination sessions at all secondary schools in North Wales to enable pupils who have missed their scheduled MMR vaccinations to get protected. Some have already taken place and the rest will take place during April and May - parents will receive information about times and dates from their school.

Primary schools that have vaccination rate of less than 90% and primary schools where there are more than 20 unvaccinated pupils are being targeted.

North Wales is not within the current epidemic area. Therefore at present, the advice to parents in North Wales is that they should ensure that their children receive their MMR vaccination in accordance with the normal schedule. With the first dose given between 12-13 months old and the second dose at 3 years and four months old, there is no need to bring these dates forward.

Health staff who are in direct patient contact including those who work in paediatrics, school nurses and GP surgeries are now being offered the MMR vaccine.

Adults who were born before 1970 are presumed to have immunity and do not need immunisation. Those born between 1970 and 1995 when the MMR was introduced are not currently being called for vaccination, however if they are travelling to the epidemic area they are advised to contact their GP surgery or contact NHS Direct for further advice.

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP

Encourage friends, family and colleagues to get their children vaccinated.

Put information about Measles on your website/intranet using the bilingual information on www.publichealthwales.org/measles and put up a poster (attached)

Follow our facebook page & share and like our measles posts/BCUHBChooseWell & retweet us BCUHB #measles

Tuesday 30 April 2013

Jigsaw are bag packing at Asda, Kinmel Bay on Saturday 11 May 2013 from 10.00am until 4.00pm.

We urgently need volunteers to help us raise money so that we can continue to offer our trips/activities/events to our families for free.

If you are able to spare anytime to help us on this date please email me.

Donna Reid
Group Coordinator/Cydlynydd y Grwp
JIGSAW
Website/Gwefan:www.jigsawsupport.org
Email/E-bost: donna@jigsawsupport.org
Telephone/Rhif Ffon: 07799 848270

Monday 29 April 2013

NHS Wales National Delivery Group

Appointment of Independent Members (x2)

Remuneration and Time Commitment:
£347 (inclusive of VAT) per day plus reasonable expenses.
Minimum of 4 days per year

The National Delivery Group (NDG) is chaired by the Health and Social Services Director General/Chief Executive NHS Wales (the “Director General”), and is responsible for providing the Director General with input on matters determined by the Director General as important to take forward the strategic leadership and management of the NHS. The NDG’s responsibilities include:
  • overseeing the delivery of key strategic objectives as set out in Together for Health and the relevant commitments outlined in the Programme for Government;
  • advising on the policy direction and implementation in the Department for Health and Social Services; and
  • supporting the management of NHS Wales by monitoring the financial and performance management of NHS Wales organisations.
Independent Members will contribute to discussions at meetings of the NDG, which are expected to take place quarterly, contribute to the Group’s recommendations for improvements to policy and delivery and help to monitor the work and performance of the health boards in Wales.

You will have expertise in either human resources or legal issues, with the ability to look ahead and provide strategic leadership. A strong commitment to raising performance in health and social services together with sound judgment sensitivity and political awareness and experience working with multiple stakeholders will be important.

Meetings are held in the Welsh Government offices, Cathays Park Cardiff.

It is the policy of the Welsh Government to promote and integrate equality of opportunity into all aspects of its business including appointments to public bodies. Applications are welcomed and encouraged from all groups and we ensure that no eligible candidate for public office receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or religious affiliation. The principles of fair and open competition will apply and appointments will be made on merit.

To apply, applicants should submit a full CV, personal statement and monitoring form, detailing their experience and how they meet the role description and person specification and how they could contribute to the NDG’s work in no more than one page of A4 to:

Julie Hanley

Welsh Government

Department of Health and Social Services

Government Business Team

Cathays Park

Cardiff

CF10 3NQ

Tel: 029 2080 1161

Email: julie.hanley@wales.gsi.gov.uk

For further information on the application process and for queries contact the Department of Health and Social Services, Government Business Team, tel: 029 2080 1161/ 029 2082 5232.

The closing date for receipt of applications is 10 May 2013. Applications received after this date will not be considered. It is expected to hold interviews during week commencing 10 June 2013.