13 May 2024
Community Engagement Coordinator appointed to support charities and volunteers in Eastleigh Borough
We’re now proudly working in Eastleigh after we have made the key appointment of Jo Proctor for our drive to deliver vital support for voluntary groups in the Borough of Eastleigh.
Community Engagement Coordinator Jo Proctor is leading a team working in partnership with Eastleigh Borough Council, to help groups access more external funding, recruit volunteers, review governance and improve business planning.
Community First’s newly launched service covers the entirety of Eastleigh Borough from Hiltingbury and Chandler’s Ford down to Hamble and Netley.
Jo said: “I’ve had a great start at Community First and look forward to getting to know more people and groups in the area.
“Strong local voluntary organisations and charities are needed more than ever as we look to support and complement our local authorities and we will do all we can to help groups access the funding they need and work together to deliver support for those who need it most.
“The team and I would love to hear from any groups that need support with governance, are seeking funding or need more volunteers.”
Tim Houghton, Chief Executive of Community First, said: “We’re delighted to have Jo lead our team in Eastleigh Borough. Her experience supporting the setup and running of voluntary organisations and expertise will be valued by groups delivering vital services to people in the area.
“In partnership with Eastleigh Borough Council, we also hope to encourage more volunteering by helping local residents realise the benefits it can bring to their own health and wellbeing and their local community.”
Councillor Paul Bicknell, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration (North) and Social Policy, said: “We are really excited with our new partnership with Community First. We urge local groups and volunteers to get in touch with Jo to take advantage of the support they can offer.”
Jo has more than 11 years’ experience in community development, most recently working on a lottery-funded project to make Southampton neighbourhoods better places to live and improve access to grants for local groups. She is an avid volunteer and has acted as a school governor for 13 years.
Community First’s Community Development Team is keen to engage with local groups and charities, so it can help support Eastleigh Borough’s thriving community. This support includes help setting up or developing a community group, support sourcing funding and making applications, assistance with volunteer recruitment and more. This support can be expanded even further with a Community First Membership.
We also deliver an important local community bus service connecting Eastleigh town centre with Chandler’s Ford and works with health partners, social care and children’s services.
For more information, contact Jo Proctor at jo.proctor@cfirst.org.uk or visit www.cfirst.org.uk
You can also keep up with Community First’s work in Eastleigh through our new Facebook page.