ACVO News February 10th 2021

ACVO NEWS

NEWS FROM ABERDEEN'S THIRD SECTOR

CYBER SCOTLAND WEEK 2021 Events for the third sector (p14)

ALSO

AND...

ABERDEEN CYBER SECURITY

ALL THE LATEST FROM ABERDEEN'S THIRD SECTOR AND BEYOND

Our ACVO Affiliates February Spotlight (p 22)

FEB 10 | 2021

acvo.org.uk

COVER PICTURE TAKEN AT ABERDEEN BEACH ON 8TH FEBRUARY 2021 BY JIM EWAN, DIRECTOR OF ACVO MEMBER ORGANISATION, ALL IN IDEAS, AND FOUNDER OF ABERDEEN'S ANATOMY ROOMS ARTIST STUDIOS

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ACVO News

Feb 10 2021

Contents

4 ACVO UPDATES Updates from our team

6 NEWS FROM YOU A selection of news from you and other networks

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ABERDEEN FC COMMUNITY TRUST 'DONLINE' LEARNING RESOURCES

18 VOLUNTEERING The latest from Mike Melvin and Volunteer Aberdeen

20 FUNDING Funding opportunities and updates from Alison and Kaja

26 HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE UPDATES

28 VACANCIES

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CYBER SCOTLAND WEEK - EVENTS FOR THE THIRD SECTOR

ABERDEEN CYBER SECURITY ACVO AFFILIATES SPOTLIGHT

Latest opportunities and vacancies from third sector and partner organisations

31 CONSULTATIONS, REPORTS & SURVEYS

ACVO News 4 Feb 10 2021

ACVO UPDATES

ACVO Updates The latest from our team.

Welcome to ACVO News, your fortnightly update from Aberdeen’s third sector We hope you have all survived the snow!

Although Aberdeen City has avoided the worst of it, we have all seen the pictures of the snow drifts from the surrounding area.

It has been a busy fortnight for the team at ACVO and we, as always, have been working to support and champion the third sector in Aberdeen and beyond. As you will have seen, the format of the news has changed and it was so lovely to hear your feedback about the new look.

This is a place for you to share your stories, if you would like to include any updates or news from your organisation, we would be more than happy to feature you.

We are also on the lookout for people to contribute features and opinion pieces to highlight all the great work that goes on the city.

If this is something you might be interested in, please get in touch.

We can work with you to pull the story together and feature it here in the news and on our social media channels.

We know that you are all constantly working to help and support our city’s communities. Let us help you to tell your story.

Contact Communications Officer Andrew Davidson at andrew.davidson@acvo.org.uk for more details.

Or to find out how ACVO can help your organisation, visit us online at acvo.org.uk.

ACVO TSI has moved!

Last week saw the start of a new month but also a new start for ACVO. We have now moved from our office at Regent House to New Jasmine House.

Although the our team continues to work remotely from home, adhering to current government guidelines, we look forward to eventually all being able to work together in our new office and to welcoming you to visit and to meet to chat about your organisation and the work we do to support the third sector.

Our new address is: New Jasmine House, Greenbank Pl, EastTullos Industrial Estate, Aberdeen AB12 3BT. We may not be working from the new office but we are all here and ready to work with you. Contacts for our team can be found here

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ACVO News

ACVO UPDATES

Feb 10 2021

ACVO TimeUpdates to Talk Tea Break ACVO for Time to Talk Day 2021 The latest from our team.

Time to Talk Day 2021, a day to encourage everyone to be more open about mental health – 'to talk, to listen, to change lives', took place on Thursday 4 February.

Organised by Time to Change, a growing social movement working to change the way we all think and act about mental health problems, the day allowed people to connect virtually to get the nation talking about mental health.

As part of the event, the team at ACVO met for a virtual coffee break to talk about their mental wellbeing, experience of working through lockdown and pastimes which help them to unwind.

At a time where virtual work meetings have become the norm, it was nice to

take a moment to get together, have a sociable mid morning break and connect on a personal level.

Despite the progress Time to Change has made, they know that many people still don’t consider mental health relevant to them or don’t believe mental health problems are likely to affect them or people they know.

However, the reality is that mental health can affect anyone. Statistically, 1 in 4 of us will experience a mental health problem in any given year.

Events like these not only raise awareness but also help to reinforce the statement that no one should have to fear being treated differently because of a mental health problem.

Find out more about Time to Change here

Be part of the story!

ACVO NEWS IS HERE TO BRING YOU UPDATES FROM ABERDEEN'S 3RD SECTOR EVERY FORTNIGHT Your stories, shared by your third sector interface If you have something you would like to feature in future editions of ACVO News, contact Andrew Davidson at andrew.davidson@acvo.org.uk

NEWS

ACVO News 6 Feb 10 2021

News from you and other networks

Early Intervention Aberdeen New Support Group for Parents and Care Givers

Early Intervention Aberdeen, a new support group offers help and advice for parents and care givers of young children with suspected neuro-developmental conditions..

Linda Lumsden was inspired to start the support group after experiencing limited support for her young son, who is twice exceptional and has an Autism Spectrum Condition diagnosis, and discovering that many other families encountered similar situations.

“It is often the case that prior to a formal diagnosis, families with young children with suspected neurodevelopmental conditions find that they do not receive adequate support to which they are legally entitled” said Linda.

“The detrimental impact experienced by many when minimal support is offered to families and their younger children (particularly those considered to be at the high functioning end of the spectrum) became the motivation to establish the group.”

Managed by both Linda and cofounder Amanda Nicolson, Early Intervention Aberdeen delivers the service with the support of Michelle Blake, a Person-Centred Counsellor and Specialist Mentor with extensive experience working with

neurodiversity, and Lara Goldie, a highly qualified Speech & Language Therapist, experienced within a wide range of speech, language and voice disorders.

Their fundamental belief is that early intervention before the age of 5 for every child with a suspected neurodiverse or neuro-developmental condition is essential to ensure development towards the child fulfilling their potential starts at the earliest possible opportunity. They raise awareness of the needs of children who may ‘slip through net’ because of perceived abilities, or simply because they are pre-school age, and provide a voice and support network for parents and others, enabling them to become more confident advocates during their child’s journey into adulthood.

How they can help

"We understand that families may become overwhelmed with sourcing information or obtaining support for their young child, who may present as having social and emotional challenges.

Our Facebook page is full of easy-toread information and tips for parents/caregivers that may support their individual situation and help them to understand their legal rights.

“We are applying for charitable status and moving forward we are planning fundraising events to enable us to provide a range of supportive resources which are currently often limited or unavailable. Examples include S.A.L.T input and therapy sessions for children which allow them to positively focus on developing their early milestones skills and special interests.

“In the Spring, we are providing awareness webinars for parents/carers to enhance their understanding of a wide range of developmental conditions, support systems and legal rights and we are keen to promote positive collaboration between families and others who have a mutual interest in the child’s wellbeing, e.g. healthcare, social work and education professionals.

“We hope that introducing a parent led support group will help to raise awareness and positively challenge inequality and legislation” added Linda.

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ACVO News

Feb 10 2021

NEWS

Mannofield Parish Church Boost for Inchgarth Community Food Bank ACVO Centre Updates

Inchgarth Community this foodbank for residents living in the The latest from Centre our team. week saw their community foodbank south of Aberdeen, providing a vital project supported in the form of a very lifeline for those struggling during this generous donation from Mannofield challenging time.

Parish Church. The church, situated in The donation from Mannofield Parish Aberdeen south, the community Church will allow the for the purchase Inchgarth has targeted with their of toiletries and cleaning products campaign of support during the Covid- alongside food, ensuring essential 19 pandemic, donated £350 of supplies reach those who need them.

Sainsbury’s vouchers which will allow The Inchgarth Community Centre for the purchase of food and toiletries food bank operates its collection for distribution to those in need. service every Wednesday from 2.30The work of Inchgarth Community 4pm. If you would like to make a Centre during the Covid-19 crisis was donation, or contribute to their highlighted in the last edition of ACVO GoFundMe campaign to support their News, where Chairman and Manager of work you can find out more at the centre, Paul O’Connor, highlighted inchgarth.co.uk. the efforts of volunteers and staff Inchgarth also released their new during their ongoing response effort. newsletter, 'The Inchy' this week, read One of the key areas of focus has it now for all the latest updates from been the operation of a weekly Aberdeen south.

Volunteers at Inchgarth Community Centre prepare parcels of food and other essentials for distribution at their weekly food bank

Yoga Nidra Sessions with Bipolar Aberdeen As part of their commitment to offer avenues of support which foster mental wellbeing, Bipolar Aberdeen are pleased to announce that they are to continue with their offer of free fortnightly Yoga Nidra sessions.

The sessions are open to members, clients or even employees of local mental health charities that could benefit from this form of relaxation and meditation and were established with financial support obtained from the ACVO supported Community Anchor Fund in 2020.

The fund saw ACVO facilitate the distribution of £100,000 of funding from the Scottish Government to groups and organisations in the city who work to help people and communities particularly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic as well as supporting the implementation of the social distancing measures. As a result

of the programme, a number of community organisations were able to offer crucial support in areas such as food provision and health and wellbeing initiatives.

Due to the success of the sessions , Bipolar Aberdeen have made the decision to continue to provide these on an ongoing basis.

Graham Caie, Secretary of Bipolar Aberdeen said “with much gratitude to the ACVO funding team as through the Community Anchor fund, we successfully delivered free fortnightly Yoga Nidra sessions to our members, their family, friends and carers during the early stages of and right through the first lock down.

“Despite this funding reaching an end, the positive impact this project was having on our members led us to make the decision to continue to offer the sessions, working with one of Scotland's leading Yoga Nidra practitioners, Laura

Geyer.”

The sessions, which take place on a Thursday evening, are suitable and accessible for all and can be practised lying down on a comfortable surface or sitting upright in a chair. During the session, all videos will be shut off and all mics muted so nobody will see or hear any participants.

“Yoga Nidra is best described as a guided meditation which promotes deep sleep and really helps with stress, anxiety and sleep disturbance and therefore has great therapeutic potential for people who live with a variety of mental health disorders” added Graham.

If any local mental health charities are interested, they should email bipolar.abdn@gmail.com to be added to the Yoga Nidra mailing list which can then be distributed directly to their members as they wish.

NEWS

Grampian Regional Equality Council Counselling Service Grampian Regional Equality Council (GREC) offers free counselling services for adults, children and young people.

The service is confidential and provided by a team of professionally trained volunteer counsellors who hold postgraduate diplomas in counselling, have training and experience in counselling children and young people, and are members of both or either BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and COSCA (Confederation of Scottish Counselling Agencies). They also receive mandatory training in equality and diversity, including institutional racism.

The counselling service for Adults offers counselling support for victims of discrimination, prejudice and hate

thanks so much for arranging the meeting where I had the opportunity to express my feelings. It supported me and made me stronger than before. You helped build up my confidence. I really appreciate what you have done for me and my daughter

crime on grounds of race (includes Gypsy Traveller Community and Migrant Community), disability, gender, religion/belief, sexual orientation and age.

Prejudice can manifest in a variety of forms such as verbal abuse, threats via text, email, social media, and/or physical attacks and GREC has an established track record for being the lead organisation in equality and human rights matters in the North East of Scotland They also offer Me-Time, a service for ages 5 – 18. with face to face, online and telephone counselling sessions available.

Find out more at grec.co.uk or to make an appointment please contact Molinda Thomson on 01224 595505, or 0777 184 8396 or email mthomson@grec.co.uk

ACVO News 8 Feb 10 2021

Parents encouraged to apply for School Age Payment before deadline

Eligible families are being encouraged to apply for the School Age Payment before applications close on 28 February.

The one-off £250 Payment is currently open to families with a child born between 1 March 2015 and 29 February 2016. It can be used for anything from a warm coat to books and toys.

Parents who have deferred their child’s entry to school from August 2020 to August 2021, or those home schooling, must still apply before the 28 February closing date or they will lose out on their payment.

The payment is part of the Best Start Grant, a package of three payments for families who get tax credits or certain benefits – including Universal Credit, Income Support and Housing Benefit.

Parents can find out more and apply at Best Start Grant and Best Start Foods mygov.scot

Local Priority Setting Sessions: Our Children I worked with the client for a number of weeks, dealing with issues she had after racial bullying at school. Her teacher referred her for counselling because she was finding it difficult to cope. She seemed to find a great deal of comfort from having the space to explore past and current events concerning friendships and pressures of school and family life

Locality Planning invite you to an online session exploring the theme of ‘Our People (Children and Young People)’ to help ensure that children and young people are meaningfully represented in the next LOIP and that the action that follows can improve the lives of our young developing population.

The session takes place on February 24th at 9.30am and explores the current data available in relation to 'Our People (Children and Young People)' and provides the opportunity for you to share your views and thoughts on what you feel would help to deliver change.

Registration for the session is open now.

ACVO News 9 Feb 10 2021

NEWS

Aberdeen Football Club Community Trust Launches Football-themed ‘DONline’ Learning Resources

A series of football themed 'DONline' learning resources has been launched by Aberdeen Football Club’s charity partner, AFC Community Trust, to support home schooling and virtual lessons.

The free online activities have been created by coaches at AFCCT’s partner schools to support children and young people, parents, carers, teachers and supporters during lockdown.

There are different tasks designed for both primary and secondary age pupils and the online resources have been backed by both Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire Council’s education departments.

Youngsters can learn along with AFC mascots Angus the Bull and Donny the Sheep as they set challenges covering creative learning, numeracy, literacy and problem solving, alongside fun tasks aimed at keeping children active and healthy.

Steven Sweeney, Chief Operating Officer at AFCCT, said: “We understand the impact the current closure of schools is having on both young people and their parents and carers, who are having to help facilitate learning at home amid a global pandemic.

“We wanted to help where we could and we’re delighted to have been able to work with our partner school coaches to create DONline learning resources for

both youngsters in primary and secondary schools. These are free to access on the AFCCT website and will be updated every week.

“We have the support of the local authorities and we hope they will be of benefit to teachers too, as well as engaging and motivating pupils in vital lessons such as numeracy, literacy and PE through the medium of football.”

Councillor John Wheeler, Aberdeen City Council’s education operational convener, said: “We are delighted to back AFCCT’s DONline learning resources which I know will capture the imagination of our children and young people as they continue with their home learning.

“Our central education team and our schools have done a magnificent job in ensuring that all our pupils have access to digital resources and continue to participate in a wide and varied curriculum. DONline is a very welcome addition to our home learning programme during the Covid-19 lockdown.”

Councillor Gillian Owen, Aberdeenshire Council’s Education and Children’s Services Committee chair, said: “In these ever-changing circumstances it is fantastic to see some positive news in the shape of this wonderful online resource which will no doubt prove popular with young

Dean McBain, partner schools coach at AFCCT.

people and parents alike."

AFCCT was established as the official charity partner of AFC in 2014, with the aim of providing support and opportunity to change lives for the better throughout the North-east.

The charity engages with more than 17,000 participants every year across 60 programmes and initiatives, ranging from walking football and fitness classes to dementia-friendly projects and providing meals during the holidays to children from lower income families.

Download the DONline packs online. Videos and photos of completed work can be shared on Twitter or Facebook using the hashtag #DONlinelearning

NEWS

ACVO News 10 Feb 10 2021

Scottish Women's Aid Learning Development Sessions

Scottish Women’s aid have released details of their learning development calendar for the coming months. All our courses are currently being held on Zoom and cost £25 each to attend.

Black and Minority Ethnic Women’s Experiences of Domestic Abuse Date: 26th February 2021 Time: 10am- 12.30pm

Domestic Abuse and the Law Date: 17th February 2021 Time: 10am- 12pm Learning Outcomes: To introduce and understand the Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act, and its implementation To understand the barriers for survivors, to reporting under domestic abuse legislation To introduce public sector duties and what the Act means for practitioners To understand how civil and criminal legislation on domestic abuse interacts, and where the gaps lie

Learning Outcomes: This session will raise awareness and broaden understanding of the varied issues for black and minority ethnic (BME) women and their children experiencing domestic abuse, forced marriage and other types of gender based violence. It will explore the social, cultural and religious factors which impact upon BME women’s experiences of gender based violence.The session will address the following learning issues: The concept of ‘Honour’ and how it affects BME women and their children How domestic abuse affects BME women and their children Internal and external barriers facing BME women and their children Introduction to Domestic Abuse Date: 23rd March 2021 Time: 10.00am – 12.30pm Learning Outcomes: Understanding the Scottish Government’s definition of domestic abuse and national policy response Understanding the impacts of domestic abuse through theory, research and survivor testimony Knowledge of the Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act 2018, and what it means for practitioners and people experiencing domestic abuse Confidence working in a relational, trauma-informed manner to ensure people experiencing domestic abuse get the proper support Myth busting around common narratives about domestic abuse

Domestic Abuse and Children and Young People Date: 25th March 2021 Time: 10.00am – 12.30pm Learning Outcomes: Understanding how children and young people experience domestic abuse through theory, research and survivor testimony Understanding of the physiological impacts of domestic abuse on children, and how to mitigate this as professionals Knowledge of how domestic abuse impacts on the child’s relationship with the abusing parent and the non-abusing parent, and the role children take in this family dynamic Supporting children and young people experiencing domestic abuse Introduction to the key concepts of the Safe and Together model To find out more information about the sessions or to make a booking, see the Scottish Women's Aid website or email booking@womensaid.scot

ACVO News 11 Feb 10 2021

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Only 5 months left to reach the most vulnerable EU citizens in Scotland On 31st December 2020 the Transition Period ended, and the UK left the European Union for good.

In these uncertain times when everyone tries to understand the new regulations and find its place in the new reality, we must not forget that this does not mean the end of the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS), which is still a pressing matter for all EU/EEA/Swiss communities in Scotland.

Time is running out to apply for the scheme, and EU citizens living in the UK will lose these rights if they do not apply before the June deadline.

In order to reach as many people as possible, the Citizens Rights Project is reaching out to local organisations, institutions, representatives and individuals such to ask for help in promoting their latest services and activities. Particularly in lockdown, they are finding it extremely difficult to reach vulnerable members of our communities and therefore any assistance you can help with, such as sharing posts on social media, is hugely appreciated.

They have also launched a new hardship fund to support the most vulnerable with costs they might incur to apply to the EUSS and their next offline and online events.

“We have launched an appeal to raise funds to assist some of our most vulnerable clients with the costs of their travel, paying for new ID documents, or even taking a passport photo.

There are only few hardship funds available in Scotland and our clients are often not eligible to apply for any of them and rely on private discretionary donations. You can learn about the experiences of some of the citizens we have already supported here where we include some case studies and explain why it is important and key for our support service to have access to a small pot of money when helping vulnerable EU nationals.”

If you would like to help support the scheme, a crowdfunder has been set up here.

Grampian Autistic Society Community Engagement Plans

In late 2020 Grampian Autistic Society welcomed their new Engagement Consultant, Megan Linklater, who will be responsible for their Community Engagement projects and initiatives as well as partnering with stakeholders to ensure that people living with and/or affected by autism are informed about, and benefit from, the services they provide.

Megan said “we have been working hard to increase our online engagement due to COVID-19.

We hosted a Christmas quiz which raised over £200 for GAS and because of its success we hope to do more of these in the coming months. We also created an online support group on FB that is completely private and allows people to ask for help and support from others going through the same situation.”

At least 1 in 100 people in Scotland are autistic – this means that an estimated 5,000 people in the Grampian region may be on the spectrum. GAS remains committed to

reach out to and support individuals and families affected by autism. They are currently working hard to grow their network of professionals supporters, and partners to increase community engagement, participation, and collaboration.

Whether your connection and/or interest in Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) is personal and/or professional in nature, they are happy to welcome you to their growing community.

“We are taking steps to let people know about the kind of support we offer and we are also beginning to work on a new website, which is really exciting. The focus for this is to make it easier to navigate and much more ASC friendly” said Megan “It would be great if people were to subscribe to our newsletter or sign up as a member. Membership is voluntary and currently free and is a great way to engage with our organisation."

More info is available at the Grampian Autistic Society webpage.

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ACVO News 12 Feb 10 2021

s p u o r G rm e n t

L

e w o p ities n m u E m om o c a li t y with C ting c e n n Co

Are you enthusiastic about improving your community?

Community Planning Aberdeen need you!

Do you want to positively influence your community?

Do you want to work in partnership to deliver change?

If the answer is YES, Locality Empowerment Groups could be for you!

ACVO News 13 Feb 10 2021

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“I am confident that the LEGs will make a very positive impact and real difference for people and the community” – Locality Empowerment Group (LEGs) member

Community Planning Aberdeen are on the lookout for people in Aberdeen interested in improving the quality of life of those living within our communities.

Members use their own knowledge and experiences to influence priorities and help determine solutions. There are groups for Central, North and South of Aberdeen but they also focus on needs that may be Citywide e.g. sharing your experience as a person living with a disability. There are also Priority Neighbourhoods which focus on areas of the City which experience the greatest disadvantage, when you get in touch they can let you know which group would be best for you.

The role of a LEG member is intended to be as flexible as possible.

People can contribute in a number of ways.

You could get involved in activities to improve your community; attend LEG sessions; participate in surveys or on-line forums.

There are no set time commitments expected and involvement can be as little or as much as suits you and your circumstances.

You do not require any specific skills, they are looking for people who are motivated and enthusiastic to make a difference and where support is required, they aim to provide this.

Individuals are also welcome to participate on behalf of family, friends

and client groups where they may be unable to participate (e.g. support workers, unpaid carers, professionals working with vulnerable groups or minorities).

It is their aim to ensure all voices of Aberdeen City can be heard.

Suzanne Thomson, Health Improvement Officer with Aberdeen City Council said “We are looking for local people who have experience and knowledge about their community and are interested in using their skills to help create a better-quality of environment for everyone.”

If this sounds like an opportunity you might be interested in, Community Planning Aberdeen would love to hear from you!

More details can be found on the Locality Empowerment Website or by emailing LocalityPlanning@aberdeencity.gov.uk.

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ACVO News 14 Feb 10 2021

CyberScotland Week 2021: events for the third sector

CyberScotland Week 2021 takes place between 22nd- 28th February.

As part of the event, several of the planned talks and workshops will look at the importance of cyber security for charities and third sector organisations

SCVO at Cyber Scotland Week With the majority of organisations having to move operations online as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, we have to come to rely on technology more than ever before.

With programmes like Zoom and Teams becoming part of our daily routine, it’s important to look at ways we can protect our organisations and the sensitive information we deal with.

Since going in to lockdown last year, there has been a significant rise in cyber crime with 22% of charities identifying breaches or attacks, with 39% of organisations within this group experiencing these on a monthly basis.

There has also been a rise in online fraud with reports of others impersonating charities online for personal gain.

When it’s taken in to consideration that the average costs to restore lost data and assets after a breach sits at £9,470, it's clear that taking steps to prevent this is essential.

As part of CyberScotland Week, a number of workshops are being run for the third sector and offer insight and support with regard to the importance of cyber security. These include presentations hosted by SCVO including 'Your digital footprint – what does the internet know about you?' cohosted by online harms expert Jess McBeath and ethical hacker Abdullah Khan, and 'Avoiding scammers and schemers', where Ian Murphy from CyberOff provides a fun and informative delve into scams.

Find out more about these and the other great sessions planned for CyberScotland Week 2021 here.

Aberdeen Cyber Security Hosts Webinar in Conjunction with ACVO Affiliates

Not part of the CyberScotland Week line up, but coincidently, February sees our latest ACVO Affiliates Spotlight event deal with a similar theme.

Our Spotlight this month focusses on Aberdeen Cyber Security, who have been a member of the ACVO Affiliates scheme for the past year.

Founded in 2018 by Dale Sutherland, the company is keen to support the third sector in any way they can and have past experience of working with and supporting charities such as GREC and Home-Start Aberdeen. They are also the headline sponsor for Gathimba Edwards Foundation’s Two Feet programme which encourages families in Kenya to launch their own business. You can read more about the company and their work in our Spotlight Feature on page 22.

As part of their spotlight, Aberdeen Cyber Security will host a webinar entitled 'Saving Money on IT as a Charity'. The event will be hosted on Zoom and will discuss hints and tips for third sector organisations about how you can streamline costs associated with running IT systems. All are welcome to attend. Details will be published soon on ACVO's social media pages.

ACVO News 15 Feb 10 2021

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Techfest to Help Protect Charities from Cyber Crime TechFest aims to help charities across the North-east better protect themselves against online crime, with a new virtual event taking place during CyberScotland Week.

The free workshop, Cyber Security Basics for Charities – a chance to learn, question and build cyber confidence, is being supported by technology and security specialist Converged Communication Solutions, with a 45minute interactive presentation and a Q&A opportunity at the end.

The session will be delivered via video conferencing platform Zoom and will be held at 11am on Wednesday, February 24.

As organisations have transitioned to remote working and are relying on digital communication more than ever, many employees and volunteers have fallen victim to cyber threats.

According to research from Ecclesiastical Insurance, 95% of charities now work from home. With only half of these organisations taking the necessary steps to increase cyber protection for staff working remotely, unfortunately this has resulted in one third of charities falling victim to cyber crime.

Working together, TechFest and Converged aim to bring an entry level understanding to those at the start of their cyber journey. Topics covered will include: how cyber security affects an organisation, why cyber criminals target charities, what the different types of attacks are and how individuals can identify risks.

The tech specialists will also simplify common IT and cyber jargon as well as explain techniques used by hackers, such as social engineering, which pieces

Robbie Ross, Chief Security Officer at Converged

together information from social media profiles in order to access your personal data and hack into accounts.

TechFest and Converged have created a poll for attendees to identify areas of concern in advance so these can be addressed during the event.

Managing director at TechFest, Sarah Chew, said: “As a charity ourselves we can struggle to feel confident in the field of cyber security, but by working with Converged Communication we’ve been able to better our knowledge.

“We really want other charities to benefit from this information as unfortunately, charities do not have the same kind of expensive software, or IT departments who specialise in this area, to help protect them from such crimes.

“Many people don’t realise the severity of sharing personal data and how easy

it is for cyber criminals to use it against you, even when you think you are being cautious - and this goes for your business and personal data.

“This is why we’ve chosen to deliver this event during CyberScotland Week, which aims to make Scotland more cyber aware and resilient. The information from Converged is so informative and will really help delegates understand how we can all protect ourselves better and make us think twice about the kind of information we put online.”

Robbie Ross, chief security officer, at Converged Communications said: “It’s a sad fact that cyber criminals do not care

"Many people don’t realise the severity of sharing personal data and how easy it is for cyber criminals to use it against you"

NEWS who they target and therefore it is vital that charities are as prepared as any business for a cyber-attack.

“Unfortunately, though, when it comes to cyber security, very often charities can be at a disadvantage and we want to change this. A huge perceived barrier is around lack of technical skills or know-how, but we want to assure charities that good cyber security practices are entirely achievable without these. It’s time to take away the stigma that cyber security is ‘techy’ and ‘geeky’.

“Many of us do this job for the simple reason that we don’t want to see people and businesses falling victim to cybercrime, especially when there are simple steps, they can take to protect themselves.

“For this reason, we made a commitment to reach as many charities as possible this year, to arm them with the fundamentals and the tools required to more confidently protect their organisation from threats.

Our partnership with TechFest underlines this ambition.

“What I would say to anyone who is wondering where on earth to start or is afraid that they won’t understand cyber security, is that this event has been created with you in mind.”

The Cyber Security for Charities – a chance to learn, question and build cyber confidence, presentation will be recorded for future access, and for charities to refer back to as a training tool.

Sarah Chew, Managing director at TechFest

ACVO News 16 Feb 10 2021

Connecting Scotland: Staying Together While Apart Being online is an essential lifeline.

Throughout the coronavirus crisis, the internet has kept us connected to friends and family, informed and entertained, and able to learn, work, shop and access health information and other public services.

However, some people can’t access these benefits because they don’t have the confidence, kit and connectivity at home.

Connecting Scotland is working to change this and help get every citizen in Scotland online and is aiming to reach

50,000 digitally excluded households by the end of 2021. They work with local organisations to distribute devices to those who need them (recently supported in Aberdeen by the team at SHMU) to ensure that everyone has equal and fair access to information technology.

To find out more about the programme and to read hints and tips about getting online visit the Connecting Scotland Website at connecting.scot/

ACVO News 17 Feb 10 2021

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A week long series of events making Scotland cyber aware and resilient.

Increase your cyber awareness.

Learn about innovation in cyber security.

Discover a career in cyber

22nd - 28th February 2021

ACVO News 18 Feb 10 2021

Volunteering Latest from Mike Melvin and Volunteer Aberdeen

Volunteer Drivers - NHS Grampian Patient Transport Service Royal Voluntary Service are working in partnership NHS Grampian and THInC to deliver a Patient Transport service.

They are looking for volunteer drivers to be part of the NHS Grampian Patient Transport initiative. Volunteers will be based at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary on a rota and respond to bookings that come in.

Shifts will initially cover MondayFriday 12noon – 6pm with the likelihood of expanding to 8pm including weekends.

You will use your own vehicle to transport a patient home from hospital helping to free up much needed bed space and reducing delayed discharge from hospital.

Royal Voluntary Service will provide full training to ensure volunteers are safe including an individual risk assessment and PVG. Mileage is reimbursed at 45p per mile and PPE is provided.

This is part of the Grampian Health and Transport Action Plan. Volunteers will respond to request covering City, Shire and Moray. If you are interested please contact THInC on 01467 536111 or email travel@thinc-hub.org.

To find out more about getting involved in volunteering/view current volunteer opportunities in Aberdeen please or if you are an organisation which would like to register/promote your volunteer roles through ACVO or require any help with volunteering matters please visit volunteeraberdeen.org.uk or contact Mike Melvin at Mike.Melvin@acvo.org.uk

ACVO News 19 Feb 10 2021

VOLUNTEERING

Recent opportunity Online Events Volunteers – C-Change: dates-n-mates

The latest from our team.

Dates-n-mates is a friendship and dating agency for adults with learning disabilities offering social events to enable

people to socialise, make friends and form meaningful relationships.

People with learning disabilities are particularly prone to being lonely and socially isolated and recent events have seen our members become increasingly anxious and confused.

In order to stay connected and continue to offer events to our members, we have moved to online events.

As an Events Volunteer, you would host zoom events, it’s all about helping members to have a safe, enjoyable and friendly time online– and that means it’s a fun, rewarding, relaxed and sociable role.

We’re looking for a volunteer who is sociable, friendly and confident and has excellent people skills. You will be a good communicator; kind and patient when interacting with people who have different communication or mobility needs.

For further information or to apply, please contact us at: email volunteering@c-change.org.uk or tel.: 07720 591229 visit our website: dates-n-mates.co.uk/aberdeen/

Recent opportunity Aberdeen Young Carers – Befriender Volunteers TheBarnardo’s latest from our team.

A young carer is someone up to the age of 18 who provides unpaid help and support to a relative, friend or neighbour who due to illness or disability cannot manage to live independently without the carer’s help.

It may involve practical support like cooking, housework, or emotional support.

Aberdeen Young Carers are looking for volunteers to spend some quality time with a child or young person between the ages of 5-18 on a regular basis, getting to know them, and building up a positive relationship by being reliable and non-judgemental when listening to them.

A one-to-one volunteer will support the young person to enjoy activities and experiences within the Aberdeen community therefore reducing isolation, and promoting self-esteem and confidence.

To apply, please visit: volunteer.barnardos.org.uk or email jacqui.hall@barnardos.org.uk for more details.

Recent opportunity Volunteer Befrienders The latest from our team. – TLC Befriending Service Everyone can feel lonely and isolated at times, especially if experiencing hardship.This year, in response to the crippling effects of loneliness and isolation on peoples physical, emotional and mental health, that the pandemic has only exacerbated, TLC are setting up a befriending service to combat loneliness and isolation in Aberdeen.

Our aim is that our expertly trained and compassionate volunteers will not only provide a lifeline to people, in the form of friendship, but also a helping hand to reconnect to the community, bringing joy and passion back into people’s lives. Due to Covid-19 government restrictions, the project will run differently than usual with the use of video conferencing or by phone, however, once restrictions are eased and it is safe to meet in person, befriending sessions will operate face-to-face in people’s homes or in the community.If you would like to be a beacon of hope for someone in need, please apply to become a TLC Befriender.

For further information please contact Jonny Astill, Development Manager at jonny@tlc.org.uk

ACVO News 20 Feb 10 2021

Funding Funding news and highlights from Alison and Kaja

The Promise Partnership

Funding for care experienced children, young people and families

Scottish Government Budget 2021-22

Scottish Government’s budget highlights skills development and supporting people into employment as being at the heart of recovery and is backed with more than £1 billion of investment.

An additional investment of £125 million will go towards the Young Person’s Guarantee, the National Transition Training Fund and other initiatives ensuring the future workforce has the skills needed for a green recovery and supporting those at risk of long term unemployment.

This includes personalised employment support and retraining for those who have been made unemployed or are at risk of redundancy due to the pandemic.

Other funding for 2021-22 includes: £230 million for Skills Development Scotland to deliver training, £100 million Green Jobs Fund to be delivered over the next Parliament, £27 million for national employability service Fair Start Scotland, £21 million towards Foundation and Graduate Apprenticeships, £5 million for Community Jobs Scotland to create job opportunities for unemployed people aged 16 to 29.

On 5th February 2020, the Independent Care Review published its vision for Scotland. The Promise Partnership is working to drive the change needed for Scotland to 'Keep the Promise' made to care experienced children, young people and their families.

The Promise Partnership is an investment of £4m from Scottish Government intended to deliver change in capacity in the ‘care system‘ to #KeepThePromise and provide holistic family support.

Corra Foundation will administer The Promise Partnership on behalf of the Scottish Government. Approximately £3m of this investment is a catalyst for change through an open call route.

Funding of up to £50,000 will be available to help organisations create capacity, adapt approaches and work towards cultural shifts and collaboration across the care system. These changes must reflect what is important to care experienced children, young people and families.

Applications open Monday 1st February 2021. The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Monday 1st March 2021. Find out more here

ACVO News 21 Feb 10 2021

FUNDING

Peter Vardy Foundation GenZ Leaders

The Peter Vardy Foundation has launched GenZ Leaders, a new initiative which aims to provide every young person in Scotland with world class Leadership and Meta-Skills through an online based programme to be rolled out initially through secondary schools in the country.

With schools closed due to Covid-19, the programme has pledged £100,000 to help fund organisations that support the mental health and wellbeing of young people in Scotland. Registered Scottish Charities working with young people aged 10-16 are invited to apply for the fund grant via the GenZ Leaders website

Macmillan Community Grants Macmillan Community Grants are available for community groups and organisations to apply for small grants of up to £500 to work in their local community to support people with cancer. They are particularly interested in projects which related to Equality Diversity & Inclusion, and Covid-19.

This could be an idea that helps people affected by cancer access support, or help people re-gain their independence as we adapt to life during a global pandemic.

Arts funding boost for Belmont Picturehouse

Aberdeen’s Belmont Picturehouse was delighted to announce last week that they were one of 100 organisations to receive a Weston Culture Fund grant.

The funding will allow them to develop and deliver exciting new digital activity to keep them connected with audiences, reach new audiences and enhance their community engagement The fund was created by the Weston family in response to the devastating impact of Covid-19, and is supporting a diverse range of organisations from museums to regional theatres and national touring ballet companies.

Grants range from £100,000 up to £1.5 million based on the size of the organisation, with a total of £30 million awarded to Arts organisations across the UK. The Foundation’s Trustees decided to increase the fund by more than 20%, to over £30 million, after seeing the level of creativity and determination from Arts organisations which have been hit by the pandemic and are fighting hard to ‘keep the lights on’.

ACVO AFFILIATES

ACVO News 22 Feb 10 2021

For our February ACVO Affiliates Spotlight we welcome Aberdeen Cyber Security.

They have extensive experience working with third sector organisations and can offer support in implementing cyber security and IT solutions.

Find out more about Aberdeen Cyber Security and how they can help your organisation at aberdeencybersecurity.co.uk

News 23 ACVO Feb 10 2021

Aberdeen Cyber Security was founded in April 2018 and has been a member of the ACVO Affiliates programme for the past year.

The business has a keen interest in helping third sector organisations, inspired in part by the upbringing of founder and Director, Dale Sutherland.

Dale was brought up in the foster care system and although his last placement was very successful, he had experience of living with over 10 families throughout his childhood. Dale received ongoing support during this time and was able to achieve his goals with help from a number of different organisations.

ACVO AFFILIATES

Aberdeen Cyber Security Director, Dale Sutherland (L) with Myles Edwards of the Gathimba Edwards Foundation

ACVO News 24

ACVO AFFILIATES It’s for this reason that Dale wishes to give back to the wider community by looking for potential ways Aberdeen Cyber Security can help charities within the local area.

"At Aberdeen Cyber Security we are proud to be a local and trusted IT company. We are on a mission to help our clients understand, secure, and get the most out of their technology. We want our clients to succeed in what they do. Our experienced engineers are here to assist charity and third sector organisations with all of their IT and cyber security needs.

We already support a number of charitable organisations, including Home-Start and GREC, to manage their IT estates through the provision of excellent service.

We have also taken steps to support charity organisations further afield and

are currently the headline sponsor for Gathimba Edwards Foundation’s Two Feet programme which encourages families in Kenya to launch their own business. Alongside sponsoring the initiative, we also provide IT Support, facilitating the charities migration to a new Microsoft Office system.

Supporting the Gathimba Edwards Foundation and the Two Feet business start-up initiative in important to us a business as it reflects our ethos of giving back to the community.

We understand that given the current situation with the Covid-19 pandemic that communities, and individuals within them, are facing unprecedented challenges and it’s important for us a business to play a part in the support effort.

At Aberdeen Cyber Security we offer a range of services and our core

Feb 10 2021

offerings are split over a tiered system meeting the security requirements of all third sector organisations no matter how large or small.

We are here to support your organisation with your IT and Cyber Security needs no matter what.

Get in touch to see how we can help to improve and secure your IT estate."

Aberdeen Cyber Security will be hosting a Zoom webinar for the third sector entitled “Saving Money on IT as a Charity”, which covers ways in which you can cut costs and channel the savings back in to your wider operations of support.

For example, did you know that as a charity you get £6000 per year to spend on your IT from Microsoft? Join us at the webinar to find out more, details will be made available on ACVO's Twitter and Facebook soon.

The Aberdeen Cyber Security team (from L-R) Dale Sutherland, Ryan Kerr, Joaquim Gomez and Chloe Digan

25 ACVO News Feb 10 2021

ACVO AFFILIATES

Feb 10 2021

The ACVO Affiliates Programme connects the 3rd Sector and Private Sector organisations together for mutually beneficial business opportunities.

Each month we will highlight one of our affiliates by casting a spotlight on their services through blogs, workshops and networking events.

Find out more about the programme, the affiliates we work with and how they can benefit your third sector organisation at acvo.org.uk or contact Alison Chandler (alison.chandler@acvo.org.uk)

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date with the latest announcements.

ACVO News 26 Feb 10 2021

Health & Social Care Updates

Sport Aberdeen to support people with respiratory conditions in partnership with NHS Grampian

Award-winning charity Sport Aberdeen has developed a programme to specifically support people with respiratory conditions to be active and live well, in partnership with NHS Grampian.

The programme is aimed at people with a lung condition whose ability to be active and participate in exercise is affected by breathing difficulties, including those with Bronchiectasis, Pulmonary Fibrosis, Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Respiratory Disease (COPD).

Participants will be offered the opportunity to attend virtual exercise classes online or alternatively receive one-to-one phone call support.

Qualified exercise instructors will work with participants to build

confidence and activity levels safely whilst talking through any concern’s patients may have about introducing exercise into their daily lives; helping to improve lung capacity and overall fitness so participants can feel more confident doing everyday tasks.

Andrinne Craig, Sport Aberdeen Healthy Communities Manager said: “Working in partnership with NHS Grampian has allowed us to develop this programme, specifically aimed at helping a group of people who can really benefit from engaging in activity.

Although physical activity won’t offer a cure, it can result in hugely positive changes for individuals living with certain respiratory conditions and we are thrilled to be able to deliver this in the city.

“Sport Aberdeen is committed to creating opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to take part in exercise and lead a healthy and active life. For people living with a respiratory condition even simple tasks can become testing, so by helping participants to improve lung function and muscle strength we believe we can make a real difference to many lives in the north-east.”

Anyone living with a lung condition can refer themselves on to the programme by completing an online referral form or by contacting Sport Aberdeen’s Active Lifestyles team on 01224 047924.

Health Professionals can also refer patients who would benefit from the programme.

ACVO News 27 Feb 10 2021

HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE UPDATES

People in the Black and Asian Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities urged to receive Covid-19 Vaccine Black and Asian Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities living in the Grampian region are being urged to receive the Covid-19 vaccine when they are offered their appointments.

Covid-19 has hit people from BAME communities particularly hard and recent concerns over misinformation online has led health professionals to reach out to make sure everyone is able to receive the vaccine with the confidence that is effective and will help with the global fight against the virus.

GPs from the Grampian region, who themselves have all received the vaccination, have produced a video in the hope of reassuring people the process is safe and to lay to rest some of the confusion or misinformation surrounding the national immunisation process which is currently underway.

Watch the video below.

NHS Grampian launches new website with information about the Covid-19 Vaccine On Friday 5 February 2021, Public Health Scotland launched their Covid Vaccination specific website for the Grampian region. It covers what the vaccine is, why it’s important to get it, eligibility and prioritisation, information on vaccine centres and frequently asked questions.

The COVID-19 Vaccination Programme is currently being rolled out across NHS Grampian and the rest of the UK. The vaccine helps to build up your immunity to the virus, so your body will fight it off more easily if it affects you. This can reduce your risk of developing COVID-19 or, if you do get COVID-19, it can make the symptoms milder. The vaccines are safe and effective.

As of today (Feb 9th 2021) a total of 866,823 people in Scotland have now received their first jab and in the past seven days, more than 290,000 people have received their first dose.

First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon says there is now an acceleration of the vaccination programme for those aged between 65 and 69 and hopes all adults in Scotland will be vaccinated over the summer.

Despite the bad weather seen this week, all vaccination centres remained open with staff working hard to ensure those who have received appointments are seen within their designated time slot. If you are over 70 and don't have an appointment, call the helpline 0800 030 8013.

ACVO News 28 Feb 10 2021

Vacancies Latest opportunities from the 3rd sector

ACVO News 29 Feb 10 2021

VACANCIES

ACVO News Feb 10 2021

Events All that's going on in the 3rd sector

Our events calendar is coming soon!

We can't get together in person at the moment but in the meantime, if you have a Zoom workshop, online conference, socially distanced event or anything else you would like to feature in ACVO News' Events Calendar, contact Andrew Davidson at andrew.davidson@acvo.org.uk

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ACVO News 31 Feb 10 2021

CONSULTATIONS AND REPORTS

Consultations, Reports & Surveys Voluntary Health Scotland (VHS) COVID-19 vaccine research Deadline: Friday 19th February

Voluntary Health Scotland (VHS) is conducting research to help ensure equitable distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine, among all those who need it and would like your help by through the completion of this short survey.

They would like to identify who you think the vulnerable demographics are and who, for a range of reasons, may not access the vaccine, even if they are offered it. They would like to identify what those barriers to accessing the vaccine are as well as what can act as an enabler to increase vaccine uptake and would also like to hear what organisations think about the public facing communication so far regarding the vaccination programme and how this could be improved.

They recognise the important role the voluntary and community sector is already playing in supporting the vaccination programme and would like to determine what more can be done and what resources (financial or otherwise are required).

Take part in the survey here Inchgarth Community Centre Survey

Inchgarth Community Centre are looking for people to take part in a survey which will help inform their focus as they rebuild their programme of events and support for 2021.

When the Covid-19 Pandemic hit, Inchgarth changed the format of their service delivery from providing community spaces for people to meet and utilise to providing essential provisions through their foodbank and grocery delivery service as well as providing information on available supports to those who need it most.

We all hope that with the progress currently being made with the Covid vaccine that we will eventually see a return of services we all previously enjoyed and will be able to meet soon with others in community settings.

With this in mind, Inchgarth Community Centre would find it useful if you were able to help them with their survey to help determine their service delivery focus so they are able to deliver it when the time comes.

The Cost of The School Day

School closures are hard for everyone, but they’re especially hard for families on low incomes. We know from last lockdown how important resources, care, support and information from schools and local authorities are for families. As we find ourselves in a second lockdown, is remote learning working for children and young people? Child Poverty Action Group want to know more about how everyone is coping.

Resources for learning, free meal replacements, financial information, support for wellbeing - are things better for children, young people, parents and carers this time around? During this bumpy academic year, what has everyone’s experience been?

Survey for children and young people Parent and carer survey Please take part and share with parents and carers, children and young people to help build a picture of what’s happening this time around. What is found out will be shared with schools, local authorities and government to help make positive change for our children and young people.

If not now, when? - Social Renewal Advisory Board report: January 2021

The Social Renewal Advisory Board was set up by Scottish Ministers to make proposals that can renew Scotland once we start to emerge from the pandemic.

The final report “If not now, when?”, sets a course towards this future.

We will be covering the report in more depth, and its implications for the third sector in a future edition of ACVO News but in the meantime, the full report is available to read here

To find out more about ACVO and what we can do to support your 3rd sector organisation visit acvo.org.uk