Lottery grant funds 4 years of voluntary support

“Charities, voluntary organisations and community groups are the heart of our community – they provide services to the public that really can change their lives.

“In some cases this is helping them recover from an illness or cope with a serious medical condition, it can be mental health support, it can be training or help getting into work, or something as simple as friendship.

“It’s not an exaggeration to say that the voluntary sector saves lives.

“But these organisations need support, and this money will mean we can provide this support.”

CVST is a membership organisation, providing networking and support services to charitable and not-for-profit organisations in Tendring through events and one-to-one guidance.

Yvette added: “CVST brings organisations together, supporting them in the vital work they do.

“We offer governance advice, communications and marketing support, networking events with speakers, forums, training and more.

“The Lottery Grant will enable us to grow the strong community of organisations we already serve.”

Brenda Ellis, CVST chairman, said: “I am overjoyed at the news of this lottery funding, which will enable our staff to do even more to help these important groups in Tendring thrive.”

CVST works with Clacton based Summit, a mental health advocacy charity for Tendring residents.

Gaynor Jarratt, chief executive officer, was thrilled to hear CVST had been awarded a Lottery grant.

She said: “This is amazing news for all the voluntary and charitable organisations across Tendring.

“Having our community infrastructure in safe hands is crucial, and we all know that CVST will do a wonderful job of ensuring that our vibrant community sector can continue to flourish.”

CVST also works closely with the NHS on multiple projects and as part of the North East Essex Health and Wellbeing Alliance.

Ed Garratt, OBE, chief executive of NHS Suffolk and North East Essex, said: “I am thrilled that CVST has been awarded this four-year National Lottery grant.

“CVST are an outstanding organisation – totally community focused, innovative and kind.

“This is fantastic news for the local community in Tendring and am confident that the funding will make a real and positive difference to their health and wellbeing.”

To celebrate the National Lottery grant, CVST is hosting a week of infrastructure events to showcase the support it offers.

Starting on Tuesday February 11, CVST will host a Funding Forum giving insider tips on securing funding for your project or organisation.

On Wednesday February 12, CVST will lead the Community Centre and Village Halls Forum, and a Parkinson’s Overview training session on Thursday, February 13.

On Monday, February 17, CVST will hold a Network Breakfast in Clacton and a Tendring Together Steering Group.

Also, through the week, CVST will be visiting some current affiliated members.

To find out more about becoming a member or about the support on offer visit www.cvstendring.org.uk or call 01255 425692.