VANEL news
News from and about VANEL
VANEL AGM and Pumpkin Party recap
On 19th October 2023 VANEL held our Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Pumpkin Party at the Canopy Community Hub in East Marsh. A big thanks to all those who attended, both Member organisations, other organisations and individuals. And thank you to Michelle and her team at Canopy Community Hub for hosting us. The Pumpkin Party […]
The DBS checking service from VANEL has come to an end
From now, VANEL is no longer offering a DBS service. We’ve operated as a DBS checking service for nearly 20 years. Unfortunately, due to a steady decrease in the number of applications we process annually since the COVID lockdown, we no longer meet the Registered Body minimum number. Sorry if we can’t help you with […]
Notice of the VANEL AGM (and our Pumpkin Party)
The VANEL AGM will take place this year on Thursday 19th October 2023 at 1.30pm at the Canopy Community Hub in Grant Thorold Park, Grimsby All are welcome to attend. Full details about the AGM can be found here: www.vanel.org.uk/agm including the agenda, papers and documents and nomination forms for anyone interested in joining as […]
Meet Lauren, our new, New to Nature apprentice
Lauren Patrick joined VANEL this week as our apprentice under the new, New to Nature programme. She got stuck straight in helping with the outdoor spaces at Littlecoates Primary Academy and then straight on to help out in the community gardens at Your Place. Find out more about our New to Nature programme here. Welcome […]
Keeping Older People Safe (KOPS) event in West Marsh on 20th April
We’re pleased to be able to announce a new event to be held at West Marsh Community Centre on 20th April 2023. This is an information and advice day for older people organised with a huge number of partners and under the banner of the Keeping Older People Safe (KOPS) programme. Please share the poster […]
The Safer Streets East Marsh Community Wallet fund is now open for a second round of applications
Safer Streets East Marsh is a Humberside Police and Crime Commissioner funded programme running until the end of August 2023 and aiming to tackle crime on a specific area of the East Marsh of Grimsby. You can read about the start of Safer Streets 4 on the Humberside Police and Crime Commissioner website here. One […]
Second KOPS newsletter published for older Cleethorpes residents
VANEL is leading a “Keeping Older People Safe” (KOPS) programme across North East Lincolnshire bringing together various approaches to support older people in the borough. In Cleethorpes we’re working with Big Local North Cleethorpes who have sponsored printing of a KOPS quarterly newsletter. This is then distributed to local older peoples groups in the area. […]
East Marsh households can now request free household or personal safety equipment
As part of the Safer Streets East Marsh programme, VANEL is managing a project to provide households in East Marsh with free items of personal or household safety equipment. Known as the “East Marsh Cache”, small items such as personal alarms; timer switches; door handle alarms and more can be requested via VANEL and can […]
Safer Streets East Marsh Community Wallet fund is now open for applications
Safer Streets East Marsh is a Humberside Police and Crime Commissioner funded programme running until the end of August 2023 and aiming to tackle crime on a specific area of the East Marsh of Grimsby. You can read about the start of Safer Streets 4 on the Humberside Police and Crime Commissioner website here. One […]
VANEL part of partnership delivering FraudWatch sessions across the Humber
East Riding Voluntary Action Services (ERVAS), Voluntary Action North Lincolnshire (VANL) and Voluntary Action North East Lincolnshire (VANEL) have joined forces to deliver the FraudWatch project to prevent vulnerable people falling victim to fraud within the Humberside Police area. The FraudWatch project has been established to ensure that everyone has access to information about how […]
The VANEL AGM is on 12th October (3.30pm) at Cleethorpes Memorial Hall
All Members and Friends are invited to attend this years Annual General Meeting (AGM). The AGM reflects on our business for the year 2021-22. The AGM will take place at the Memorial Hall, Cleethorpes on Wednesday 12th October 2022 at 3.30pm. Throughout the day, the Memorial Hall will be full of stalls and attendees for […]
New national Community Safety Charter launched. VANEL has signed up and you should too
National crime-prevention charity Neighbourhood Watch (OurWatch) has launched a new national Community Safety Charter enabling local organisations, groups, businesses and individuals to stand up against crimes such as antisocial behaviour, hate crime, intimidation, and harassment. VANEL have just signed up to the Charter (takes 2 minutes) and made the Pledge to help make our open […]
Tattoos: our final Nostalgic North East Lincolnshire video
The latest and last heritage film created through VANEL’s Community Heritage TV project is now available to view. This film explores the history of the Tattoos. Filmed and produced by Hammond House Productions, this is the fifth and final film of a series commissioned through the Heritage Lottery funded project started up last year. During […]
The Empire Theatre: our latest Nostalgic North East Lincolnshire video
The latest heritage film created through VANEL’s Community Heritage TV project is now available to view. This film explores the history of the Empire Theatre in Cleethorpes. Filmed and produced by Hammond House Productions, this is the fourth film of a series commissioned through the Heritage Lottery funded project started up last year. During the […]
A History of Allotments: our latest Nostalgic North East Lincolnshire video
A third heritage film created through VANEL’s Community Heritage TV project is now available to view. This film explores the development of allotments and their importance to the local community. Filmed and produced by Hammond House Productions, this is the third film of a series commissioned through the Heritage Lottery funded project started up last […]
The history of markets in Grimsby. A second Heritage video on VANEL TV
A second heritage film created through VANEL’s Community Heritage TV project is now available to view. This film explores markets around Grimsby, their history and their importance to the local community. Filmed and produced by Hammond House Productions, this is the second film of a series commissioned through the Heritage Lottery funded project started up […]
Ten years of Young Reporters in North East Lincolnshire
You’ve been reading weekly articles from the Young Reporters in the Grimsby Telegraph and on the VANEL blog for years now. But did you know that the Young Reporters initiative is now ten years old? VANEL has managed the Young Reporters scheme for a good number of years now, led by Jenny Hodson, and you […]
The Effects of Male Gaze on the Masculine – 500 Days of Summer . A Young Reporter article
‘500 Days of Summer’ presents us with the effects of male gaze on the man. Often in media we discuss the effects of this phenomenon on the female. Terminology such as the ‘inner camera’ have been popularized which describe the feeling that women always have an imagined spectator they perpetually perform for, even in the […]
The Christmastime Suicide Myth: Where To Focus Your Efforts To Prevent Suicide This Holiday Season. By a Young Reporter
Most people in modern-times seem to subscribe to the idea that suicide rates dramatically increase around Christmas season, which is understandable, as it seems plausible to some that during the holiday period, a mentally ill person may be pushed over the edge by the surrounding jollity of Christmas, which ‘everyone but they’ can partake in. It […]
Safer Streets West Marsh project well underway
VANEL is very actively involved with the delivery of the “Safer Streets 2” project which is tackling acquisitive crime on the West Marsh. We are taking a lead on a number of community aspects of the project, and with the project nearly half-way through its six month programme, here’s a flavour of what is going […]
My Definition Of Grief. A Young Reporter article
As we become accustomed to living with COVID-19, wearing face masks, getting vaccinations – we soon forget to talk about what’s important. Whether that’s our worries for the future, the anxiety we face going back to work or school, or even just being. Every morning, the news highlighted the impact of the new virus on […]
Have cemeteries got one foot in the grave? Thoughts from a Young Reporter
Since their humble beginnings in North Africa and West Asia 10-15,000 years ago, cemeteries have been engrained into the traditions, architecture and daily lives of civilisations all over the world. Graveyards are a staple of many cultures around the globe and have only just recently become unwelcoming, morbid places bound to the stigma of sorrow, […]
MOVE team involved with “Hoods in the Wood” pantomime (oh yes they are)
The MOVE project’s first ever pantomime will be broadcast on HLR Community Radio next week. The pantomime is called Hoods in the Woods and is the product of a collaboration between the Yeller Bellies Writing Group and Virtual Players. It has involved and features many participants, employees and volunteers from across the project including Peter and Liz from […]
First film on VANEL TV from Nostalgic North East Lincolnshire documents the history of Waltham Windmill
The first heritage film created through VANEL’s Community Heritage TV project is now available to view. This film covers the history of Waltham Windmill – a favourite local landmark. Filmed and produced by Hammond House Productions, this is the first film commissioned through the Heritage Lottery funded project started up earlier this year. During the […]
The Pop Industry and its ‘Bounce Back’. A Young Reporter article
Like all things, the Pop Industry suffered during lockdown at the height of the-19 pandemic. But it’s coming back with a bang! And it’s not just current artists coming back, some older artists are wowing us again, like ABBA! All music fans, people of all ages can be prepared for a music come back like […]
Letting go. Thoughts from a Young Reporter
Lately a realisation has overcome me, one which is a hard lesson to grasp. As vital as our studies, our education, our work, and other responsibilities, we must learn the importance of letting go. I have written countless articles on the media’s harrowing message of ‘productivity’ over everything, but I think it is the most […]
Everything To Know About the Girls Night In Campaign. A Young Reporter article
Women’s safety should never have to be debated but after the shocking murder of Sarah Everard by a Metropolitan police officer, something has to change. Women’s safety is still seemingly not a priority, not in the news enough as it should be and this leads on to how the new epidemic in the UK is […]
This week is National Trustees’ Week.
It’s that time of year once again – National Trustees’ Week (1st – 5th November). Whether you’re an existing Trustee of a charity; someone thinking of becoming a Trustee; or a collective board of Trustees wanting to evolve, there’s something going on that should be helpful for you this week. The official website for the […]
Pioneering ‘Green Influencers’ scheme in North East Lincs reaches milestone
As the world gears up for COP26, a scheme to create a network of young people enthused about the environment has reached a milestone by recruiting 1,500 Green Influencers. The Green Influencers Scheme is run by The Ernest Cook Trust, a national educational charity, which granted host organisations funding to support the employment of 44 […]
Are you a young Green Influencer? Join us for some half-term activities
During October half-term, the Green Influencers project is running a number of activities (from 26th-28th October) across Grimsby and Cleethorpes. These are a great opportunity to get involved with green or environmental activities whilst having fun. Read the poster below and then get in contact with Liz at VANEL (liz@vanel.org.uk) if you want to book […]
Calling all young writers – join the Young Reporters group now and share your writing
Young Reporters has been running for over seven years now and is an opportunity for young people aged between 12 and 19, who can write a weekly column which is published in the Grimsby Telegraph covering a huge range of topics. It has also been a finalist for 3 awards both locally and nationally. Groups […]
Live Music – Post & Pre Pandemic
When lockdown started in March last year, we were restricted in more ways than one. Although staying at home was the safest option and helped save lives, you can’t deny the substantial impact COVID had on the live music sector as well as on our lives, those organisations and staff who support the musicians through […]
Sport and Women. Thoughts from a Young Reporter
This week sport saw history made. As an individual studying PE as a GCSE subject, this moment struck a chord, even though tennis is not a personal interest. It was a time that struck the hearts of many in the nation, indeed the world. Emma Raducanu. A miraculous young woman made history this week by […]
The VANEL AGM is on 14th October 2021
The VANEL Annual General Meeting (AGM) for 2021 will take place on Thursday 14th October 2021 at 10.30am. It will be held at 82 Grimsby Road, Cleethorpes plus online (via Zoom). Please Reply and let us know if you will be able to attend and whether you are wishing to attend in person or online. […]
West Marsh Wallet funding pot open for applications for projects improving community safety in central area of West Marsh
The West Marsh Wallet is a pot of grant funding available to run projects in a very specific part of West Marsh. The funding is administered through VANEL and the closing date is 23rd September 2021. A panel will then select projects to be funded. The funding is very specific and must tackle issues related […]
Covid 19. This week’s Young Reporter article
I hate to bring up the topic in which has been on our minds, in our lives and on the news every single day, however I must address the very rumours that this ever present illness has presented… ‘Covid19 lies’, ‘COVID isn’t real’ I am speechless with some of the headlines of magazines, and topics […]
Holidays in a pandemic. Thoughts from a Young Reporter
Currently, as I’m writing this, I’m on a Jet 2 plane on my way home from Portugal. A mask on my face, a window seat, my music in, the plane not even half full. I feel the most relaxed on holiday that I have ever felt. It’s summer, and everyone is either thinking of a […]
Youth Issues & How to Help – Mental Health. A guide by a Young Reporter
Participating in Youth Action, and starting the Your Voice, Your Vote ballot, highlighted issues for young people that are quite often overlooked. My series, throughout these two months, focuses on the main issues for young people in North East Lincolnshire, ways you can help and start these conversations with your children or even your grandchildren. […]
New Heritage Project for VANEL TV channel
VANEL secures National Lottery Heritage Fund support Voluntary Action North East Lincolnshire has received a National Lottery Heritage Fund grant of £10,000 for an exciting heritage project, to create VANEL community heritage TV programmes, in Grimsby and Cleethorpes. Made possible by money raised by National Lottery players, the project focuses on North East Lincolnshire residents […]
Siblings: A Young Reporter article
Our parents never discussed your thoughts on having a sibling, of how you’d feel growing up with, a sibling. Especially as the middle and youngest child, you are given no choice/ time to react to your siblings, they just are there. I had always wished for a sibling, specifically a sister, since the moment I […]
Dark Humour: a Young Reporter article
We all have experiences good and bad, that shape who we are today. The harder experiences are the more complex it takes to process in our brains, so to process and try and cope with these difficult times we may use humour. Now this isn’t a bad way of coping at all. In fact, it’s […]
‘I can never forget what I saw at the Manchester bombing’
This is an article written by Young Reporter Grace Trippitt to remember her experiences at the Manchester Arena terrorist attack in 2017. Article appeared in the Grimsby Telegraph on 22nd May 2021 here. My most difficult article by far to write. Thinking of the frame to present this in is far from easy. This is […]
Everything You Need to Know for Eurovision 2021. From our Young music Reporter
Assumingly, the majority of people change the channel when Eurovision comes on your tv every springtime. Just hear me out, what if you didn’t pick up the remote and submerged yourself in all things European for a few hours. Now would that be so bad? The Eurovision Song Contest first aired in the UK around […]
The Pros and Cons of Teacher Assessed A Levels. Thoughts from a Young Reporter
When Gavin Williamson, the Secretary of State for UK’s Education, announced that year 11s and 13s would receive teacher assessed grades, I was quite relaxed. But as the summer came, Year 12s were in a state of inconsistency up until this February when he announced the current year would be receiving them too. The mock […]
The Fight For Women’s Rights. A Young Reporter article
Since the beginning of last month, every conversation has touched on the topic of women’s rights. From the controversy surrounding the fact the vigil was held in the pandemic to the way even those thought to protect may be seen differently, everyone was talking about it. On the 3rd of March of this year, we […]
Disability. Thoughts by a Young Reporter
As humans we are born with the capacity to talk, think, learn, grow. But this isn’t the case for millions of people all over the globe. Many have hidden disabilities you maybe don’t realise exist. Mostly as we get older we take responsibility for ourselves. But, for those children who grow up with a learning/ […]
Meet VANEL and our youth work…
VANEL recently featured in a UK Youth e-newsletter with a “Meet VANEL” feature. Read on to read the article.
Bonding over Fear. Thoughts from a Young Reporter
After the sad death of Sarah Everard read thoughts on women’s safety by Young Reporter Grace.
Could we be the generation to lead on improving our world?
As VANEL launches our Green Influencers project, this piece by one of our Young Reporters reminds us what can be done about green issues by us all.
Final round of Crime Reduction Fund for 2020/21 is now open
The latest round of CRF funding closes 26th February 2021
Reflections on 2020 by Young Reporter Alex
Some personal reflections back on what has been a very different 2020. Read on for Alex’s article.
Point Of View. By Young Reporter Grace
Read Grace’s take on ‘point of view’.
The Pareto Principle and COVID-19
A thought provoking article this week by young reporter Grant. Read on
Harvesting Time. Thought for this week from our Young Reporter
This week’s Young Reporter article from Beth has us thinking more deeply about harvest time. Read on.
Trustees Week Day 5: Try the 5 S’s
On the final day of Trustees Week here’s a few thoughts for you and a useful tool to help you quickly shake up your approach to governance. Read on.
Trustees Week Day 4: Acknowledge that it’s voluntary
A simple reminder today on Day 4 of Trustees Week that all your Trustees are volunteers. That can often be forgotten. Have a read to find out about a couple of new resources too.
Trustees Week Day 3: Follow the handbook
We’re halfway through Trustees Week. Read on for todays resources and thought of the day for trustees and boards.
Trustees Week Day 2: Use a Framework
Read todays thought for day 2 of National Trustees’ Week. Today we’re discussing the Charity Governance Code and how you can use it as a framework to assess your own governance approach.
Trustees Week Day 1: One step at a time
We’re starting National Trustees’ Week today. Read on for todays thought of the day and some useful information.
My project: Suicide Awareness by a Young Reporter
Our Young Reporter Grace wants you to know about her project related to suicide awareness. Have a read.
Trustees Week is 2nd to 6th November. Time to say thanks to your Trustees.
Next week is national Trustees Week. So here’s a reminder about what it is all about and how to get involved.
‘Feel the rain, put that sodding phone away’. This week’s piece from our Young Reporter
This week’s food for thought from Young Reporter Grant. Reminding us to ‘feel the rain’ rather than ‘just getting wet’. Read on…
A post-AGM update on VANEL activities
An update from our Chief Officer following our AGM last week.
What if? Our thought for the week from our Young Reporter
Our Young Reporter Grace gets us thinking about What if?….
A reminder that the VANEL AGM is on 15th October 2020 on Zoom
A reminder about the VANEL AGM which is being held on Zoom this year – on 15th October.
VANEL AGM is on 15th October 2020
Notification about the upcoming AGM on 15th October 2020 at 10am to be held via Zoom
Be proud of being a ‘failure’. Young Reporter article for this week
This weeks interesting read from our Young Reporter.
The future is what you make of it
This week’s positive thinking article by Young Reporter Alex. Read on…
“Broad Beans, Buddleia and Bourbon Biscuits” The Quill writers group write and star in their first radio production
Tune in on Friday 21st August at 7pm to the premiere of a radio drama from the Quill writing group. Not to be missed! read on for more details.
In praise of charity shops
Glenn is a member of the Quill writing group (arising from our BBO Steps Forward and MOVE projects) and here he shares his personal thoughts about charity shops. We hope you enjoy his writing. Read on.
Breaking away from the flock
Young Reporter Alex Greenwood writes this weeks article. Read on.
Reducing loneliness, one postcard at a time
Have a read of this week’s Young Reporters article
How mindfulness can solve your mayhem
Young Reporter Beth offers a practical way out of stress! Read on for her article.
The Definition of Happiness
Read on for this weeks Young Reporters article by Sophie
Using Technology to work differently
Microsoft 365 is now free for small charity teams (or there is always Google docs for non-profits). Read on to find out about the tools VANEL has been using to cope during remote working & about the free offer of software from Microsoft.
The power of friendship. This week’s Young Reporter article
This week our Young Reporter Alex writes about Friendship…
It’s Volunteers’ Week and our e-bulletin just went out
This week (1st – 7th June) is National Volunteers’ Week so we just sent out our latest e-bulletin with news about the week and all things volunteering. Read on to get the links.
How far have we really come?
Young Reporter Maddy reflects on how much progress has been made tackling homophobia and other prejudices over the years. Worth a read…
The Crime Reduction Fund (CRF) is open again for applications
The North East Lincolnshire Community Safety Partnership (CSP) Crime Reduction Fund is now open again for 2020/21 applications. The first round for 2020/21 has a closing date of 18th September 2020. Read on for all the details and how to apply.
Some thoughts from Young Reporters during Mental Health Awareness Week
A couple of pieces of writing for Mental Health Awareness Week from our Young Reporters. Read on…
Lockdown Lifehack
Life in lockdown is generating some thoughts and stories by our Young Reporters. Here’s the latest. Read on…
Creating a green route through Cleethorpes
VANEL has received Heritage Lottery funding to explore ideas around creating a green route through Cleethorpes. VANEL will work with Cleethorpes residents to research the existing natural heritage in public parks and gardens; other green spaces; alleyways and along the seafront, in order to explore the feasibility of connecting them together using green ‘corridor’ mapping to create a green route. Read on to find out more about the project and to take our survey.
New Removing Barriers to Work Programme from VANEL
VANEL are pleased to announce that we have a new programme getting underway. Our Removing Barriers to Work programme helps young people aged 18 to 30 years old to find their own personal pathways back into paid employment through learning, volunteering and undertaking community action projects with support in the communities where they live. Read on for all the details.
The Importance of Life
This weeks interesting read by Young Reporter Sophie. Read on…
Wishing our Members well for this Bank Holiday Weekend
Wishing all our Members and Friends well over the Bank Holiday Weekend. Read on for message from our staff and trustees.
Learning to love yourself
Valuing and loving yourself are important explains Young Reporter Alex. Read on…
The Importance of Sign Language
Every wondered about sign language? Young Reporter Beth explains all. Read on…
Life of a quaranTEEN!
Young Reporter Anna explains the impact of lockdown on the exams of young people and why we all need to be in this together. Read on…
Sunshine in the Rain. By Young Reporter Victoria
In times of crisis it’s nice to see some sunshine in the rain. Read on for some positive thoughts from our reporter Victoria.
Understanding Epilepsy
It may be that you’re not familiar with what Epilepsy is or does. Here, Young Reporter Abiane explains all. Read on…
Ian Holloway’s impact on Grimsby Town FC and the wider community
Young Reporter Billy talks about Ian Holloway and his impact on football. Have a read…
How Social is Social Media?
Young Reporter Ruby explores Social Media, the pros and cons and how social it really is. Latest of our weekly Young Reporter articles. Have a read…
Stepping beyond the Mother Tongue
Young Reporter Abiane talks to us about learning a foreign language. Read on…
The Truth about Fake News
How true is what you’re reading? Young Reporter Sophie digs into the news to find out about true or fake news. Read on…
By pulling together we can reduce poverty
Young Reporter Emily Benn considers the real meaning of poverty and suggests that pulling together we can all help! Have a read.
5k Your Way – Living Well With or Beyond Cancer
Young Reporter Emma tells us all about Parkruns and how you can get involved and help beat cancer! Make sure you have a read.
Victoria’s story: how our Trustee and ex-IGNITE team member Victoria’s adversity led her to volunteering
Our ex-team member and current Trustee Victoria features in this story about how her adversity led her to volunteering and supporting young people. Read this powerful story here and find out about Victoria and all the projects she is supporting…
What are you eating?
Young Reporter Emma asks us to have a good think about what we’re eating. Have a read – food for thought.
Does everything need a label?
What does LGBTQ+ mean to you? Young Reporter Georgia explores the meaning behind the label. Worth a read.
Is what we’re buying ethical?
How ethical is your shopping? Young Reporter Tasos asks us to have a think about the choices we’re making as consumers and shoppers. Have a read of the article.
Movie With A Meaning. Our Young Reporter thinks about movie meaning
Now, when you’re watching a film and it finishes sometime later, a lot of questions would come up in your head like was it better then you thought it would be? Was it a disappointment or would you watch again? Would you want to forget about it or would that movie be something to inspire […]
It’s nearly Christmas. Help VANEL win £1000 to provide support across North East Lincolnshire
We’ve nominated ourselves for a chance to win some funding to help us provide IT support to individuals across the borough. Could you nominate us too to help us win? Or find out more about nominating a charity of your own choice. Read on
Beliefs, diversity and the need for acceptance. Thoughts from a Young Reporter
For many years, now Western countries have strived for liberation, inclusion, equal rights and opportunities for all – however, this is still not necessarily the case across the globe. In some countries – such as Iran – religious and traditional connotations, structures and beliefs mean that some sections of society are limited in how they […]
Animal testing – right or wrong? This week’s article from a Young Reporter
Do you know that animal testing has been going on for a lot longer than you realise? The history of testing on animals goes back to the 3rd and 4th centuries BC. Early Greek physicians such as Aristotle and Erasistratus performed experiments on living animals. Some people are outraged that this is still happening, whilst […]
Retired police officer Martin Steedman has scooped a first-ever Humber-wide volunteer award for his unstinting service to the region’s Blue Lights Brigade
Martin has been onboard with BLB since the early days. He’s been part of the Safe and Well team and his volunteering commitment has been rewarded this week with a well deserved award. Read on for the full story.
Moving Away – The Changes and the Continuities. Our Young Reporter article
Young Report Andrew Hill is off to university. Read his thoughts in his article.
Why you should be taking advantage of our Cyber Security Training
You’ll have seen that we are running Cyber Security training again. If you’re wondering why this is worthwhile then read this explanation from Karl who will be delivering this training – and then book yourself on.
Rotary Club supports Youth Social Action with donation to IGNITE
At the VANEL AGM we were presented with a cheque from Rotary Club of Grimsby who have kindly supported our IGNITE programme. Read on for the story.
The Definition of Power. This week’s Young Reporter article
Have a read of this week’s article by Young Reporter Sophie exploring the idea of what power is.
Our right to vote shouldn’t be defined by age. This week’s Young Reporter article
Young Reporter Hannah passionately explains why she thinks the voting age should be lowered. Read on
Cyber Security Training for Small Charities and Community Groups returns
Our Cyber Security Training sessions return. Our first session is 30th October. These sessions are supported by NAVCA, funded by the National Cyber Security Centre and delivered by VANEL. Read on to find out more about the training, the session and how to book.
Where I am now?
This week’s article is by Young Reporter Thomas. Here he reflects on how his autism affects his speech, language and socialisation. Work a read.
VITAL ways in which residents of North East Lincolnshire can protect themselves from flooding will now be offered to households by members of the area’s growing Blue Lights Brigade (BLB).
Our Blue Lights Brigade programme has been running some new training for our volunteers and CERT teams. This Flood Training will prove invaluable to our communities going forward. Read on for the story of what we’re up to related to flood preparedness.
Young Reporters – The Columns, The People, The Crazy
Another article from one of our Young Reporters. This week from Andrew. Andrew has been a young reporter for a while now and here he reflects back on his time and experiences.
Councillor Ron Shepherd’s donates Shed
VANEL recently started using an allotment for some of our project clients to use. And through a very generous donation a shed has become the latest addition to the site. Read on for the story.
VANEL AGM is on 10th October. Please join us.
VANEL would like to invite Members and Friends to our AGM event on Thursday 10th October 2019 at Grimsby Neighbourhood Centre. Read on for full details of the event.
Decisions Decisions Decisions
This week’s Young Reporters article is by Victoria. She explores the way young people are consulted. Is it tokenistic or are young people’s opinions really being taken onboard?
Curves in all the right places
This week’s article by a Young Reporter is from May. Her article is all about body image. Have a good read.
Divorce – The hidden Costs. Article by our Young Reporter
Latest article by one of young reporters exploring the true impact of divorce on younger people. Read on.
Cyber Security for non-profits. Training and support coming soon
VANEL will be running a new series of Cyber Security for non-profits training starting in September. Read on to find out more and register your interest.
Definition of Success. Latest article from a Young Reporter
Our latest weekly article from Young Reporter.
The true meaning of feminism
This weeks article from one of our Young Reporters on the subject of Feminism. Read on.
LGBTQ+ – My Meaning Behind the letters
This week’s article by a Young Reporter tackles the meaning behind the letters LBGTQ
Blue Lights Brigade Summer update
Blue Lights Brigade has had a busy Summer. Lots of events. Lots more volunteers engaged with and trained up through our CERT teams. Read our full report here.
Helping Young People Help Each Other to lead their Communities – the IGNITE programme reaches a milestone
As the National Lottery funded period closes for the VANEL IGNITE programme, we are very please to have managed to secure other new investment to continue some of the excellent work delivered by the team over the last three years. Read on to find out about our departing team and how IGNITE continues…
Dame Kelly Holmes and our Get on Track for Wellbeing project
Get on Track for Wellbeing is a community-based personal, social and emotional development programme designed to help young people become more physically active and to improve their mental wellbeing. VANEL are working with Dame Kelly Holmes Trust to deliver this programme to young people aged 16-24 in Grimsby. Read on to find out much more.
Romanticising mental illness needs to stop.
Young Reporter Hannah shares here thoughts about how the very real issues of mental illness are being romanticised by the press and on social media. Read her article.
Discrimination in the media. Article by Young Reporter
Civil rights activists have changed the way that governments treat minority groups, however people belonging to those groups still feel as though they aren’t being treat as fairly as other people are. Read the article by Young Reporter Maddy.
Cleethorpes Community Cops was at Cleethorpes Police Station as it closes and the local policing team moves to the Knoll
Over the past year, VANEL has been leading a project to research and archive the history of policing in Cleethorpes. The project has now come to an end and this week the results of this “Cleethorpes Community Cops” project were on display at Cleethorpes Police Station at a bitter-sweet event organised by the Police to mark the final closure of the Police Station after nearly 90 years of service. Read on for the story of the event, along with lots of photos and information about Cleethorpes Cops project.
Autism. The latest article from a Young Reporter
A deeply personal article this week from a young person explaining about their own Autism. Read on for a moving read.
IGNITE team led Make Music Day event at Grimsby Minster a great success
The IGNITE team organised a Make Music Day event at Grimsby Minster recently hosting a range of musicians for the public to come and listen to. Read on for our write up and photos from the day.
Reproductive rights are a human right
The latest article from our Young Reporters covers the important topic of abortion. Read more.
“Fill your heart with Pride” article by our Young Reporter
June is Pride month and here, Young Reporter Ellie explains the background to this, the Stonewall rebellion, and why it is so important still. Read on.
Thanks Lydia
Lydia Day is a University of Hull student who did a three month placement with VANEL recently. Here we and she share some reflections on her time with us.
Beach Sports Day event report
On 1st June the IGNITE team held a successful beach sports day in Cleethorpes. Read on for a short report from the day and a number of photos!
The pressure to achieve at such a young age. Article by our Young Reporter Alex
The pressure to achieve I am at the stage in my life where I am taking my GCSE’s, they tell me these are “life changing” and will “pave my future” depending on the grades I receive. For many teenagers the anxiety and dread of these exams loom over our heads everyday as the pressure builds […]
“Why don’t they just eat something?”
Latest article by one of our Young Reporters. Here Rachel discusses Anorexia. Have a read.
They did it! Students raise £1000+ after 12 hour relay walk over the Humber Bridge
The IGNITE team were very pleased to have been able to help students at Grimsby Institute with their fundraising walk across the Humber Bridge recently. Students from Uniformed Public Services at Grimsby Institute organised a massive 12 hour relay walk/run back and forth across the Humber Bridge in order to raise money via BallBoys for fighting testicular cancer. They raised over £1000 in the process. Read on for the whole story with photos!
We’re getting ready to celebrate Volunteers’ Week
Volunteers’ Week is almost here (1st June) and VANEL and the Volunteer Managers Network are getting ready for their event on 6th June in Grimsby. We’re inviting people to come and find out about volunteering by visiting us on the community bus in Grimsby. Find out more about what we’ve got planned.
Oh we do like to be beside the (award-winning) Cleethorpes seaside
You’ll have probably already seen the news that Cleethorpes has a Blue Flag beach once again. This is great news for the resort, but it’s also a testament to the hard work of many local partner organisations and many, many volunteers. Read on to find out the whole story.
Let’s all fight back at the Scams that ruin people’s lives
A scam is fraud, and fraud is a crime. And these crimes destroy lives. VANEL attended Scamference 2019 last week and it was a real eyeopener. Read on to learn more about scams and how we all have a part to play in stamping them out.
Our National Health Service is one of a Kind. Our Young Reporters report
Young Reporter Charlotte writes a passionate article about the value of our NHS and how we don’t recognise this enough. Have a read.
“There is so much expertise and skill out there”. Feature article on the volunteer army of Trustees that keeps charities ticking
This article talking about the role Trustees serve in keeping charities running appears in the Lincolnshire edition of The Journal this month. Featuring VANEL’s own Trustee, Mandy Johnson from Lincoln and Lindsey Blind Society. Have a read about this celebration of Trusteeship and get in touch with us.
“Learn to love. Teach to love. Share the love.” This week’s Young Reporters article
So What If Your Child Is Not Taking the ‘Straight’ Road? This week’s Young Reporter Ellie shares her thoughts. Have a read.
Are we a nation of prudes or pragmatists?
Young Reporter Charlotte writes a passionate article about attitudes in society and encourages us all to be more open minded. Have a read.
Celebrating Cleethorpes Community Cops – our website and research is now live
For the past year, VANEL and local volunteers have been researching the history of community policing in Cleethorpes as part of our “Celebrating Cleethorpes Community Cops” project which was funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Our research and project has now formally come to an end, and it’s time to share what we’ve learned more widely. Read on to find out more about this project and next steps.
Et Les Femmes?
Young Reporter shares her thoughts about women in male dominated sports. How far have things progressed and how much further do things need to impress. Read on.
Marcus – his story
Marcus left VANEL a few months ago after many years in various roles and it was sad to see him go. But he has an interesting story to tell about his journey that brought him to VANEL in the first place. Read on for an interesting read and to get to know Marcus better.
Adopting the Charity Ethical Principles
Just a few months after the Charity Ethical Principles were launched, VANEL are keen to adopt them and explain why you should be doing so too. Read on.
British Sign Language
Young Reporter Alex explores how learning British Sign Language is a very positive step in helping communicate with deaf people. Read on.
Police time is precious, please don’t waste it.
Police time is critical. It is something that shouldn’t ever be wasted or taken for granted. But frustratingly, this is the case. Too much of the police time is taken up and wasted by the public, whether it be deliberately or not, it’s happening; and you need to be aware. Read this week’s article by our Young Reporter Rachel.
Andy’s families benefit from special holiday fund with Center Parcs break planned.
FIVE families, who are currently being supported by Andy’s – the region’s only children’s hospice – will be enjoying a trip to Center Parcs, thanks to a donation from a North East Lincolnshire holiday fund. Read on for the whole story.
Info not Income. The latest article from our Young Reporters
Charlotte, one of our Young Reporters, shares her thoughts about homelessness and challenges us all to think differently. Read her story.
IGNITE team member making progress with Environmenstrual programme
Jessica Pearson is a member of the IGNITE team at VANEL and over the past six months has been leading on a number of projects with young people around period poverty, stigma around periods and environmental impacts of sanitary products. Here Jess describes the projects she’s been doing, the progress made and what’s next. Read on for the article.
Cheerleading group soars to new heights
Cheerleading has taken over England in the last decade becoming one of the fastest growing and supportive sports there is. But you might not know a lot about it. Let Alex, one of our Young Reporters, tell you all about it.
Help for Health and VANEL TV showcase some inspirational young people
VANEL has commissioned a series of videos focusing on local young people as part of a Help for Health project. You can watch these videos on the new VANEL TV YouTube channel. The purpose of our mini-series is to focus in the success stories of emerging young leaders in our local community, who we have […]
Team successfully complete Community Engagement Response course
The first CERT team of 12 volunteers have completed their training under this BLB programme. Read on to meet these volunteers and find out what they’ve been up to.
IGNITE event to celebrate International Women’s Day was a great success.
IGNITE would like to thank everyone who attended and supported our event to celebrate International Women’s Day on Friday 8 March at the Town Hall in Grimsby. In total, over 160 visitors attended the event where they were met by 26 local organisations who exhibited and represented opportunities for women within their organisations. Diversity was […]
Young Reporters a new chapter
At a meeting on 19th February our current Young Reporters and Peer Mentors welcomed the new recruits who will be writing for the coming months and thanked the outgoing Young Reporters for their hard work and interesting articles over the last four months. Read on for the whole article about this transition and to be introduced to our new young reporters
Job vacancy: North East Lincolnshire Neighbourhood Watch Area Network Coordinator
VANEL is recruiting for a North East Lincolnshire Neighbourhood Watch Area Network Coordinator. This is a part-time role. Read on for full description, job description and application form. Closing date 29th March 2019 12noon.
Volunteer Passport scheme from VANEL gets support from Awards for All
VANEL are very pleased that we managed to secure funding from The National Lottery Communities Fund for our Volunteer Passport scheme specifically targeting young adults. Read on for the story and an overview of what we’re up to with this Volunteer Passport scheme.
The VANEL e-bulletin for 8th March 2019
Read a copy of the VANEL e-newsletter for 8th March 2019
Planning ahead – we’re thinking about our Pancake Day Race on Tuesday 25 February 2020 !
We’ve just finished with Shrove Tuesday 2019 but, to CASE and VANEL, it marks one year until our Pancake Day race in 2020, which we are launching today. The race will be held on Tuesday 25 February 2020 on the Humber Bridge. We know it’s very far off, but read on for all the details of the event.
Your voluntary organisation and Copyright. A ‘need to know’ guide
Copyright is a form of Intellectual Property (IP) that is relevant to each and every charity and voluntary organisation, yet it is something that most trustees, committee members or management teams either overlook or know very little about. So take a read of our introductory guide to Copyright.
Do you host volunteers? Do you want to show your volunteers that you’re well placed to look after them? SVA is your answer
The Supporting Volunteers Award (SVA) from VANEL is a quality accreditation that lets your volunteers know that you have their best interests in mind and are committed to their volunteering journey. As an independently verified self-assessment process, SVA also gives you the chance to find out what you’re doing well and to tighten up on your volunteer hosting practices where things can be improved. So if you host volunteers you should learn more about SVA. Read on the understand why SVA is important.
The VANEL e-bulletin for 25th January 2019
Read on for the full e-newsletter from VANEL for 25th February 2019
A CALL for North East Lincolnshire residents to unite and combat loneliness was made at a special event, which brought people together and made Blue Monday bright and cheerful for all.
The Bright Blue Monday event was held at Cleethorpes’ Moon on the Water on January 21st and was a huge success. Read on for our story from the day.
The VANEL e-bulletin for 18th November
A copy of the VANEL e-bulletin sent out on 18th January 2019.
Cyber Security Training for Small Charities and Community Groups
Do you know how to protect your organisation against a cyber-attack? Have you thought about the risks to your business if you were hacked, phished or your online presence crashed? VANEL is running this free training created by the National Cyber Security Centre specifically catering to small charities and community groups to help you understand cyber security and apply practical solutions that will keep you safe online. Wed 27th Feb pm, Cleethorpes. Places limited. Read on for lots more information.,
The VANEL weekly e-bulletin for 11th January 2019
The weekly bulletin from 11th January 2019
VANEL e-bulletin for 4th January 2019
A copy of our e-bulletin for 4th Jan 2019.
Make it your New Year’s Resolution to do something about Cyber Security during 2019 to protect your charity or non-profit from attack.
Cyber security concerns the risks to our computers, data and finance that is posed by hacking, fraud, phishing, scamming and more. Reports indicate that the charitable sector is very unprepared. VANEL is working with partners to try and help our sector understand and prepare for these cyber risks. Read on to be kept informed…
First Blue Lights Brigade CERT Team well underway with their training
Community Emergency Resilience Teams (CERT) are being formed through the Blue Lights Brigade using volunteers to prepare to help our communities should an emergency require it. Find out about how the first dozen CERT volunteers are doing on their training programme…
Youth Group success in West Marsh
A Youth Group is giving young people from Grimsby’s West Marsh a chance to socialise, be creative and get up and active and is helping to reduce crime on the estate, as well as providing a vital opportunity for children to mix with community leaders. Read on to find out more.
Vibrant Me
A new local project for young artistic people to meet and gain social experience is being established by a local volunteer with the help of the IGNITE team. Read on to find out about Vibrant Me and how to get involved
Happy new Year from VANEL
Welcome to 2019. Happy New Year from the whole team at VANEL. Thinking about getting some new year resolutions in place for your organisation? Read on for our thoughts…
DON’T be alone and blue in North East Lincolnshire on Monday, January 21 – shine bright and meet new friends instead!
A whole host of local groups are uniting at Cleethorpes’ popular North Prom venue Moon on the Water to make sure they enjoy a ‘Blue Monday’ with a difference. Find out more about how local groups are turning 21st Jan 2019 into a Bright Blue Monday.
Getting back on track through our MOVE programme
A FORMER teacher and talented artist, who has battled confidence and mental health issues, is getting his life back on track thanks to the MOVE, European Social Fund and Big Lottery-funded project led locally by VANEL. Read on for the story.
ONE hundred hours of volunteering – former health and safety professional John Jacques is putting his vast career experience to good use for the benefit of others.
ONE hundred hours of volunteering – former health and safety professional John Jacques is putting his vast career experience to good use for the benefit of others. Read on for his story.
VANEL e-bulletin for 16th November 2018
Headlines It’s Trustees’ Week all this week so we’ve got a bumper set of links, news and info for Trustees, Committee Members and Boards in this week’s e-bulletin. We’re also moving into the run-up to Christmas now with events and fairs coming along. Come and meet the IGNITE team at the Cleethorpes Christmas Market this […]
Become a Trustee and make a difference
Trustees are the people who lead and run charities in the UK. You too could be a Trustee. So read on to find out more about these important roles and how to get started.
Welcome to Trustees’ Week
This week is Trustees’ Week (running from 12th-16th November). It’s an annual opportunity to celebrate the role of the volunteers who help run and lead charities across the UK. VANEL is on board with this initiative and you can read here our first take on Trustees’ Week, some useful information and useful resources.
VANEL e-bulletin for 9th November 2018
Headlines This week has been Youth Work Week and our IGNITE team has been out meeting young people as part of this initiative. Then next week will be National Trustees’ Week and, as always, VANEL will be making the most of the chance to celebrate leadership of voluntary organisations in all its forms. Read on […]
The ‘unsung volunteer army’ in North East Lincolnshire…
RETIRED health service manager Lesley Brown is one member of an ‘unsung volunteer army’ in North East Lincolnshire, which offers vital support to hundreds of charity and volunteer organisations. Next week is National Trustees’ Week so we’ve got a story about a couple of local charity trustees and why they became trustees in the first place.
A busy weekend for the IGNITE team
Over the last weekend of September the IGNITE team were a bit busy doing their bit towards fundraising, awareness raising and the environment. It was Macmillan coffee morning time as well as time for a River cleanup. Everyone got very involved, the weather was kind for the outdoor activities and over £150 was raised for […]
THEY say that 60 is the new 40…well for our Jenny, it may as well be the new 30!
Jenny Hodson will never grow old and lives by her mantra: “You can’t stay young forever, but you can be immature for the rest of your life.” Jenny leads our IGNITE team and has just completed a wingwalk for charity. Read on to find out about her impressive life of volunteering.
the VANEL e-bulletin for 7th September 2018
A copy of the e-bulletin for 7th September. Read the original online here. Headlines So the holidays are over and this week our newsletter is back to its normal weekly slot. We’ve got bits and pieces of news for you as always, but the big story this week is from the IGNITE team. It’s the […]
Staff changes in the IGNITE team at VANEL
It’s time for a change in the team at IGNITE. We’ve said goodbye to Dan, Nicole, Danielle and Ellie as part of the planning changeover as we start a new academic year. And Jean-Louis is staying on and has been joined this week by Kirsty, Shaun and Jessica. Victoria and Jenny are of course still here for the long haul! Read on for our goodbyes to our former colleagues and hello and welcome to the new members of the team who you’ll be dealing with at IGNITE over the coming year.
the VANEL e-bulletin for 17th August 2018
Copy of the e-bulletin as sent out to recipients on 17th August 2018.
Meet Betty. She volunteers at St Andrews Hospice. Is volunteering for you too?
“IT brightens my day when I know I am coming here.” The words of 79-year-old Betty Withers, whose new role as a vital volunteer has given her life a new spark. Betty is one of an army of more than 500 volunteers, without which St Andrew’s Hospice would not operate in the way it does. […]
Volunteers wanted to help with historical research
Are you interested in doing historical research? Are you interested in the history of Policing (perhaps if you’ve got a personal or family connection to the Police)? Are you interested in the history of Cleethorpes? Do you have some time to spare and to volunteer to help our project?
IGNITE Beach Sports event was fun for all down on Cleethorpes Beach
Free fun down on the beach was the order of the day in Cleethorpes, when a group of young people from the IGNITE team organised sports sessions for all.
the VANEL e-bulletin for 10th August 2018
Copy of the e-bulletin as sent out to recipients on 10th August 2018.
High Sheriff applauds vital work of our Blue Lights Brigade professionals
THE work of our Blue Lights Brigade team has received a £3,000 funding boost, thanks to The Tribune Trust. Read on for the story.
GroundWork GY event week
After months and months of solid planning, IGNITE project leader and Groundwork Youth Ambassador, Mica Armstrong (18) delivered on IGNITE’s largest project to date; 6 events in 6 days. Following the national theme set out by Groundwork, Mica, with the help of the IGNITE team developed Groundwork GY and a programme of events using six […]
the VANEL e-bulletin for 6th July 2018
Headlines The IGNITE team was out in force at Armed Forces Day in Cleethorpes last weekend. Excellent event. Were you there? Read more below. VANEL has also been participating in the programme led by the National Cyber Security Centre to support charities to lower their risks by improving their Cyber Security. Lots more about this […]
the VANEL e-bulletin for 29th June 2018
Copy of the VANEL e-bulletin sent out on 29th June 2018.
Your experiences wanted. Do you remember Cleethorpes policing from the past?
Are you a serving Police officer or ex-Police officer who has experience or memories of policing in Cleethorpes over the decades? If so, or if you know someone like this, then we’d really like to hear from you to help out on our research into “Cleethorpes Community Cops”.
E-bulletin from 8th June 2018
A copy of the VANEL e-bulletin sent out on 8th June 2018