June 19, 2025

Gareth Cavanagh, Development Officer for Mid and South Copeland, writes about making connections in his new area:

Part of my work supporting community organisations in Mid and South Copeland has involved establishing a Voluntary Sector Network. The first in a series of events bringing this network together took place on June 10th at Thwaites Village Hall.

Voluntary organisations delivering services in the two areas were invited to come together, connect and share knowledge. The theme of our first networking event was volunteering. Organisations were encouraged to discuss strategies for recruiting volunteers and opportunities to share their volunteer workforce.

We also heard two fascinating presentations from Nature Rich Miterdale and SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen Families Association). Jack Hatton told us about his organisation’s conservation work in Miterdale forest and how volunteers are a vital part of making it happen. Steve Parnell, a regular attendee of CVS events, told us about the incredible important work of SSAFA and the role it plays in supporting our Armed Forces community. Those in attendance on the day told us that the event was a welcome opportunity to hear more about the work of neighbouring organisations.

Mid Copeland is the area from Beckermet down to Seascale and South Copeland is the area from Drigg down to Millom. If you are running a community organisation in these areas and you would like to be a part of the Mid and South Copeland Voluntary Sector Network, we would love to hear from you!

Email Gareth.cavanagh@cumbriacvs.org.uk to be added to our Mid and South Copeland mailing list.

Our next networking event takes place on August 14th from 10am until 1pm and we are currently planning an exciting agenda focussing on funding. Why not come along and learn from the skills and experience of neighbouring organisations?