Key Takeaways from our recent April meetings.

Communities of Practice (COP)

Lynsey Booth from Cheshire and Merseyside Cancer Alliance spoke to us about the National Cancer Screening programme, which is targeting early diagnosis of lung cancer. The focus is on 55 to 74 year old smokers. They are working closely with One Wirral CIC and have resources to share.

Neil Sledge from the Wirral Deen Centre mentioned the activities taking place at the centre which included a women's group, a gardening club and hosting the Repair Cafe once a month. They are looking at a school project to tackle antisemitism and anti islamophobia. Neil also mentioned that they have community space on offer to groups. At this point, Catherine Hitchell from Church at the Cross also mentioned that they have an enormous space the size of two badminton pitches downstairs for groups.

Being a D&D geek in my 20's, I was delighted to hear from Phil Roberts, who now have fishing, narrow boats, LGBT and D&D activities at Journeymen.

Kate Chadwick from Tomorrow's Women, told us that they are running a Volunteer and Careers Fair on the 5th June.

Katy Palomo from Energy Projects Plus mentioned two really interesting items. Firstly they are able to provide Retrofit buddies to handhold people through the new Eco 4 Scheme which could help with insulation, cavity walls, solar panels because the contractor is the one that has to make the claim. This can be especially useful to tenants who are at risk of their landlords selling up due to the new legislation coming into play in January next year. Their number is 0800 043 0151 You can view their newsletter here.

Micha Woodworth from Healthwatch reminded us that it is so important for people to report their experiences of the health and social care services, and can easily do so by giving feedback on the Healthwatch Feedback centre. Micha also mentioned that there is an event at WUTH on the 8th June for Carers.

Louise Healey from DWP mentioned two keys points. It is important for anyone who is moving to Universal Credit to check their deadlines on their migration notice. Firstly to ensure that they get transitional protection and secondly to ring up for a deferral if they are unable to meet the deadline. Louise also mentioned that there is also a lot of support at the moment for anyone who's childcare costs are a barrier to employment.

Our own announcements from Gareth included making sure that you get your volunteering opportunities onto the WCVS Volunteer portal, as it is due to be advertised by Regional Media very soon. The DBS service will be up and running soon, watch out for a new grants programme and finally that the date for the sectors 'Coming Together' away day plan is due to be shortly announced.

Our next COP is on the 30th May.

Let us know if you need any introductions, links and contact details by emailing zel.rodgers@wcvs.org.uk