Charity and Voluntary Sector

BIG: The BIG Lottery Fund is announcing a £35m FORCES in MIND programme.  The funding will help those veterans who struggle with the transition to civilian life, especially those whose psychological well-being subsequently impacts on the quality of their life and others around them.  Former armed forces personnel and their families are set to benefit.

BIG intends to establish an independent trust to provide long-term support & advocacy for those who served in conflicts including Iraq, Afghanistan and the Gulf War.  It has been estimated that around 19,000 Service personnel return to civilian life each year.
 
Forces in Mind will enable existing organisations that support veterans and their families to improve access to appropriate and relevant services.  It will also fund research, awareness raising and advocacy work.  The Fund is planning to start the process of setting up the Trust shortly.  
Press release ~ BIG ~ Combat Stress: Service-related mental ill health - Post Traumatic Stress Disorder 
 
SESport England and JustGiving last week announced a campaign to bring an extra £22m into grassroots sport over the next five years through a new partnership called JustGiving for Sports Clubs, which will help sports club members to raise more money and claim Gift Aid using the same award-winning tools as the biggest charities in the UK.  

JustGiving have also dropped their subscription fees – worth £180p.a. for every Community Amateur Sports Club (CASC) - so clubs can sign up today.
Press release ~ JustGiving for Sports Clubs
 
BIG: The People’s Millions 2010 competition has opened its doors for projects across the UK to put in their bids to receive up to £50,000 from the Big Lottery Fund (BIG). 
Press release ~ People’s Millions 2010
Spotlight on women at Serco – Anita’s story