How can we use this blog?

Our initial intention for this blog is to invite members to write about the work/projects they do, the work/projects they would like to do. The outline for blog entries is fairly broad as we believe there is value in hearing from/about a wide range of experiences and perspectives. We believe that sharing ideas, knowledge, information, experiences and perspectives in this way can inform, inspire and support, encourage and engage others.

If you are interested in writing a blog entry, here are a few ideas:

• Write about a project you have done in the past, are currently doing or would like to do.

• Write about your individual or organisation's experiences of community development projects.

• Write about how you got into the work/projects you currently do; What have you learnt? 

• Write generally about community development work, what things do you think others should consider?

If you want to submit a piece to our blog, have any questions or want to make suggestions please email us at stepforwardnetwork@gmail.com.

Welcome!

Step Forward & Network is an independent group based in East London whose main aims are to bring individuals, community groups and charitable organisations together.

At a time when national and local government are implementing policies that limit access to services/resources and are pitching individuals/communities/organisations against each other under the guise and rhetoric of ‘austerity’, Step Forward  & Network would like to counter some of the effects by bringing people together to:

• Identify skills and resources, share ideas/information and network.

• Plan, support and encourage community development projects which address the specific needs and interests of individuals and communities, exploiting the knowledge and skills of those best placed to deliver and participate in them.

Stage One:

We would like to hear from individuals, community groups and charities of all descriptions which are:

• Looking for people to assist them in planning, developing and supporting new and existing projects.

•  Willing to share their expertise with others to support and encourage the development of new and existing projects.

We would like to hear about/from:

• Any resources or funding opportunities in the UK that can be accessed to support community development projects.

• Individuals or charities/organisations which have experience in the writing of project proposals/funding applications and are willing to help and support others in doing so.

We would like to hear from:

• Trainee or accredited youth workers who are willing to share their experiences and ideas.

• Mentors, life coaches and befrienders who are willing to share their experiences and ideas and skills.

• Teachers, education, training and employment specialists who are willing to share their experiences, ideas and skills.

• Family and community support workers who are willing to share their experiences, ideas and skills.

• Trainee or accredited counsellors/psychotherapists. All models, one-to-one and group facilitators who are willing to share their experiences, ideas and skills.

• Trainee or accredited supervisors. All models, one-to-one and group facilitators who are willing to share their experiences, ideas and skills.

• Individuals, community centre management committees, local businesses, charities, churches and organisations who have premises available to host and/or facilitate meetings, workshops etc.

We would also like to hear from you if you have any constructive and useful ideas and suggestions.

We believe it is time to come together with suggestions, skill sharing, solutions, and action;
NOT RHETORIC!

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