Locality hubs provide vital access and funding for voluntary and community sector

Walsall Council is encouraging community groups and not-for-profit organisations to get involved with its successful resilient communities voluntary and community sector (VCS) locality leads programme.

The locality hubs operate through four dedicated locality leads, each serving a specific geographic area within Walsall. The initiative is funded by Walsall Council and the Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB), and it aims to strengthen and support the voluntary and community sector by providing resources to help them make local services accessible to Walsall residents.

The locality hubs programme is delivered through the funding of locality leads for the north, east, south, and west regions of the borough. These locality hubs provide essential services, including training, funding advice, and legal support to empower local businesses and organisations. They also facilitate volunteer recruitment and offer collaboration opportunities to foster partnerships and strengthen networks for small businesses.

Dave Brown, Executive Director for Economy, Environment and Communities at Walsall Council, said, "The voluntary and community sector plays a vital role in the heart of our communities. The work of the locality hubs provides local groups and residents with the support they need to thrive and contributes towards a more economically vibrant community.

“This is a fantastic example of how the council is working collaboratively and locally to empower these organisations to continue their invaluable work and make a real difference to the lives of Walsall residents. By providing support to the different localities in the borough, which is tailored to the needs of each community, we are ensuring that the voices of voluntary and community organisation and small businesses are heard.”

Pip Mayo, Interim Managing Director of Walsall at NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB), said, “I am delighted to see the success of the resilient communities voluntary and community sector model in Walsall and the hard work of the locality leads. This partnership is a key example of bringing communities together to learn areas of improvement and provide access to valuable support to make a real difference in our communities.

“I encourage all eligible organisations and residents to get involved in this programme and take advantage of the resources available to them. Together, we can build a stronger and more resourceful community for everyone."

Residents and organisations can directly contact the locality lead in their area. For further information, email: communitydevelopment@walsall.gov.uk

More information on how to contact the locality leads is listed below:

North:  Bloxwich Community Partnership, Stan Ball Centre, Abbotts Street, Bloxwich, Walsall, WS3 3AZ

Tel: 01922 403351 / 07943 283996

Email: VCSLeadNorth@bloxwichcp.co.uk

East:  Manor Farm Community Association, King George Crescent Rushall 

Walsall WS4 1EU

Tel: 01922 614316 / 07507 436813

Email: VCSLeadEast@manorfarmca.com

South: Nash Dom Community Hub, Sun Street, Palfrey, Walsall WS1 4AL

Tel: 01922 616444

Email: vcsleadsouth@nashdomcic.org

West: Old Hall People's Partnership, Wing Close, Bentley, WS2 0LS

Tel: 01922 474684

Email: VCSLeadWest@ohpp.org.uk