Wiltshire workshop helps give power to the people (From Wiltshire Times)

Wiltshire workshop helps give power to the people

11:29am Tuesday 23rd October 2012 in Latest News By Staff reporter

Does your community have the opportunity to become involved in running a local valued service such as a village shop or pub? Are you or your group involved in local projects that rely on local people working together to make things happen?

Inspired by the Localism Act 2011, Community First is providing support for parish and town councils, community organisations and local groups of all kinds with a free event, Communities Leading the Way – Localism and You.

The event takes place on Saturday November 24 from 9.30am to 3.15pm at Lansdowne Hall, near Calne. It will feature a series of workshops designed to help community organisations to develop the skills to plan, practice, engage and communicate on projects that are related to the rights and opportunities presented by the Localism Act.

Organised by Community First, the day features taster sessions on project and business planning, communication, consultation, community involvement, Neighbourhood Plans, collaboration, engagement, social enterprises and finance.

Community First chief executive Philippa Read said: “There is now more and more emphasis on community empowerment, but sometimes community organisations may feel inexperienced or uninformed. This range of workshops will help to give individuals and groups the chance to consider the skills and resources that will help develop and take forward local projects.”

To find out more or book a place contact Sharon Woolley at Community First, Wyndhams, St Joseph’s Place, Devizes, on tel 01380 732821 or email swoolley@communityfirst.org.uk