SICAP - Community Development

Strong governance is essential for a successful community group or organisation. We support groups to strengthen leadership, improve accountability and work towards compliance with the Governance Code for Community, Voluntary and Charitable Organisations.
Supports include:

• Board and committee development
• Guidance on governance structures and good practice
• Support to work towards compliance with the Charities Regulator Governance Code
• Assistance with strategic planning and annual planning

We provide a wide range of training and workshops designed to build the skills, confidence and capacity of staff and volunteers in community groups and organisations.

Supports include:

• Identifying skill gaps and training needs for boards and committees
• Tailored training and workshops delivered throughout the year

Training topics may include:

• Good governance
• Committee skills for new and existing board members
• Facilitation skills
• Finance and financial oversight
• Funding opportunities and grant writing
• Human resources
• Charities Regulator requirements
• Digital skills (e.g. using Canva)
• And more

We are always happy to take suggestions for training that would benefit your group or organisation.

We support community groups and organisations to connect, share learning and build relationships.

Supports include:

• Facilitating networking events and meetings
• Creating opportunities for peer learning and collaboration
• Supporting connections between community groups and key stakeholders

We produce Area Profiles for disadvantaged areas where our work is focused. These reports provide a clear socio-demographic picture using Census data and the Pobal HP Deprivation Index data.

These profiles can be used to:

• Raise awareness of social inclusion issues  
• Support funding and grant applications
• Strengthen the voice of local communities
• Support engagement with statutory bodies and other stakeholders

Where relevant, SICAP may also support small-scale or thematic research to respond to emerging community needs and support local planning, in line with programme priorities.

We support community groups to engage in local decision-making structures and ensure community voices are heard.

Supports include:

• Information and guidance on the Public Participation Network (PPN)
• Support with registration on the PPN and other networks such as the men’s shed and women’s shed networks.
• Understanding how to participate effectively in local structures