Small and Mighty Support Programme
The Small and Mighty (SaM) Support Programme is a partnership of local community infrastructure and voluntary sector support organisations.
Community First Oxfordshire, OCVA, Oxford Community Action, Volunteer Link Up (West Oxfordshire) and Charity Mentors Oxfordshire have come together to enrich and boost existing support and advice for micro and small community organisations, funded by Community Fund.
The support programme was designed in response to what people told us in last year’s Small and Mighty Research Report. This revealed that there were several important areas which smaller voluntary organisations required more support: voice, volunteering, partnerships and organisational development. As the bedrock of Oxfordshire’s voluntary and community sector, representing 75% of the sector, these ‘Small and Mighty’ organisations often rely almost exclusively on volunteer action, which makes this support offer so important.
Emily Lewis-Edwards, joint-CEO of Community First Oxfordshire said:
“We are thrilled that The National Lottery has funded this work. It will make a huge difference to the local support offered to the smallest community organisations. Because this is a four-year project, we have the time to shape the partnership, play to our strengths, and offer consistent, far-reaching support, improving as we go”
Guided by what people have told us and through ongoing conversations, the Small and Mighty Support Programme will hold advice and support outreach clinics in rural and urban areas, develop collaboration and networking opportunities, hold volunteer showcases, and offer mentoring support and training sessions – all of which will be tailored to the specific needs of the smallest community organisations.
Laura Price, CEO at OCVA said:
“Small and micro organisations play a vital role in our communities. They help our county flourish, yet too often they are working alone, facing financial pressure and challenges that can feel isolating and lead to burnout. We are delighted that the National Lottery has recognised the importance of local infrastructure support, helping ensure that these small but mighty organisations can access the help they need to thrive.”
Following the official launch, the Small and Mighty (SaM) programme will hit the ground running. The team will develop and roll out a suite of tailored advice and organise the first in-person support clinics, with the first appointments available in the summer. The programme offers a much-needed boost to the voluntary and community sector and is a timely opportunity to roll out grassroots-led transformative change for the multiple organisations which work so hard to support the people of Oxfordshire in all its diversity.
