Supporting South Copeland – Phase 2

October 30, 2026

Kat Hercberg is our South Copeland Development Officer, supporting communities across the area from Thwaites to Drigg, including Millom, Bootle, Corney, Eskdale, and the Duddon Valley.

Find out about Kat’s new Theory of Change and the four long-term goals identified for voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE)  organisations in the area.

We have now moved into Phase 2 of the South Copeland Development Officer role, and I am now working an additional day: Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.

As we enter this new phase, I have been reflecting on the changes I’d like to see across the South Copeland voluntary sector and how I can best support organisations to achieve them. Recently, I developed a Theory of Change which identifies four long-term goals for South Copeland VCFSE organisations:

  • Improving financial resilience
  • Strengthening governance, decision-making and strategic planning
  • Creating a stronger culture of volunteering across South Copeland
  • Building stronger relationships and collaboration between organisations

These goals are already shaping the advice and support I provide to local groups.

 

Strengthening Governance

To support stronger governance, I have recently been working with three groups in Millom to identify appropriate trustee training opportunities. Coincidentally, Cumbria CVS has a series of evening governance sessions coming up which may be of interest:

This work also links closely to creating a stronger culture of volunteering, as I will be supporting groups to promote trustee opportunities through the Cumbria CVS Volunteer Portal. I hope to help recruit a more diverse range of people to volunteer in trustee roles, so that their voice is included in the decisions made in these organisations. I am also currently organising a volunteering fair for late February, so please keep an eye out for further details.

 

Improving Financial Resilience

Supporting organisations to improve their financial position continues to be a key focus. Recently, I have provided funding advice to a range of groups, including sports clubs, community buildings, established voluntary organisations, and new start-up projects.

 

Strengthening Relationships and Collaboration

Collaboration remains a vital part of building a stronger voluntary sector. I have supported one organisation to connect volunteers with a local conservation project, helping to build new partnerships and opportunities for community involvement. I am also working with my colleague, Kate Grove in Mid Copeland, to organise a networking event that will bring organisations together, encourage collaboration, and facilitate the sharing of ideas and good practice.

I look forward to continuing to work with organisations across South Copeland and supporting the sector as we move through this next phase.