Help for community groups

When running a community group there are many issues to consider; money, publicity, volunteers and more. To help you run your community group effectively we have created this page. Below is a substantial list of contacts and information, across a range of subjects, for local community groups.

Money and resources

Kirklees Council funding is limited, however there are other funders that could support your project: Community grants and funding

Support in kind

Maybe you could get what you need by sharing, and not need as much money.

• People advertise unwanted items for free on Gumtree and Freecycle
• Various donated goods from shampoo to sportswear available on In Kind Direct
• For surplus food from shops try fareshare
• Free office furniture can be found on Over 2 Hills

Running your organisation

Running a successful community group means thinking about your constitution (rules for making decisions), managing your money and policies about how you operate.

• The Health and Safety Executive has lots of useful guides and resources.
• Charity Commission If your income is over £5000 per year and you are established for charitable purposes then you should register with the Charity Commission. Their website has templates for constitutions for small and large organisations, advice for trustees and more. The advice on issues like finance, risk and safeguarding is useful for any organisation.
• WYCAS (West Yorks Community Accountancy Service) offers financial management training and accountancy services for community groups.
• Advising Communities provide a range of advice and support especially for community associations & centres but relevant to others, including telephone advice line.
• Running a sports club gives access to a range of resources.
• NCVO is a national 3rd sector support organisation. Membership is free to groups with income below £30,000.
• Creative Kirklees Resources for creative groups and events.
• Councillors can provide signposting and support.
• Apply for a Prevent small grant scheme to gain funding for your organisation.

• Small Charity Constitution for a small organisation not intending to employ people or own property.

Working with volunteers

• TSL Kirklees advise on involving volunteers in your work.
• Do IT: Volunteering Made Easy allows you to advertise your volunteering opportunities.

Publicise your group and activities

• Community Directory - publicise your group and its events and activities.
• Creative Kirklees - a directory of news and events listing for creative activities.

Safeguarding

If you work with children or vulnerable adults you should consider what you need to do to ensure that they are safe from abuse and neglect, and how to report any concerns.

• For information and advice, including free training, see Safeguarding adults and Kirklees Safeguarding Children Board
• If you need DBS (criminal record) checks then Kirklees Council can process the application for a fee. please contact:
  • Email dbs@kirklees.gov.uk

• Safeguarding guidance for the Voluntary, Community and Faith Sector in Kirklees gives guidance covering children and adults.

Training

Adult education includes links to adult learning providers and support with the cost of learning.