Useful Contacts

COMMUNITY ASSET TRANSFER SUPPORT FOR GROUPS

Here is a list of useful sources of information and support available to groups.  Please note it lists the key sources but is not exhaustive.  If you want to talk to someone at Birmingham City Council about community asset transfer then please contact Karen Cheney on 0121 675 8519   Karen.Cheney@birmingham.gov.uk  or Jane Edwards on 0121 303 3523   Jane.Edwards@birmingham.gov.uk

 

 

NATIONAL:

Asset Transfer Unit (ATU) – provides expert advice, guidance and support to groups on asset transfer.  There are lots of useful resources on their website inc. toolkits, interactive support map and a dedicated wiki for groups to ask questions/share experiences.  Free business planning and bid appraisal service.

Community Matters – the nationwide federation for community associations and similar organisations providing advice and resources on all aspects of managing a charity, premises, and activities.  They run an advice line, training and consultancy services as well as VISIBLE (development tool and accreditation scheme for community organisations).  Members have access to additional support.

Charity Commission – services include online guidance and resources about legal and charitable issues.

Capacity-builders – national programme set up to improve the support and advice available to charities, voluntary and community groups and social enterprises.  Information about their funding programmes, current news and sector developments on their website.

WEST MIDLANDS REGIONAL

Big Lottery West Midlands – funding information, regional updates, newsletter and resources.

LOCAL:

Chamberlain Forum – Birmingham Think and Do Tank supporting community organisation and resident led groups

BVSC – supports voluntary action in Birmingham.  This includes sectoral news and information, training, resources and funding information.  Links to Local Development Agencies via their website.

  • website: www.bvsc.org
  • email: admin@bvsc.org
  • phone: 0121 643 4343

BRAP – work with all communities and organisations to turn equality into a reality.  Programmes target organisations working in disadvantaged areas and BME 3rd sector organisations, supporting them to work effectively and be sustainable.

iSE – a development organisation working to start, develop and sustain social enterprises, social firms and voluntary and community sector organisations.  Specialist advice, guidance and training.   Events, programmes and funding opportunities on their website.

Digbeth Trust – support for grass roots voluntary and community organisations seeking to develop community facilities and services.  Training and information resources, access to funding programmes and a register of quality assured consultants.

Birmingham Community Foundation – helps to fund hundreds of local charity and community projects in Birmingham and The Black Country each year through programmes such as Grassroot Grants

Business in the Community – Provide free professional support for community groups and volunteers from businesses.

COMMUNITY ASSETS INFORMATION SHEET