OCVA

03/09/2026

We're offering 3 training courses for volunteers during autumn and they're all free!

We've partnered with Abingdon & Witney College to run three online courses on:
👉Communication: How to develop positive communication? What are the limiting factors and how to overcome these?

👉Risk: What do we mean by Risk? Why is risk so important in a volunteering role?

👉Self-care for volunteers: Why should I worry about self-care, I’m helping others? Strategies to avoid volunteer burnout

Dates/times and how to enrol can be found on our website: https://ocva.org.uk/volunteering/training-for-volunteers/

02/09/2026

SPOTLIGHT ON: SUSTAINABLE DIDCOT 🌟

This month we're shining a light on Sustainable Didcot, a community-led environmental group focused on climate change and sustainable living.

Its work is organised around five themes: Nature, Energy, Waste, Education and Resources.

They run a wide range of activities including a food rescue scheme for those on low incomes, and run workshops and activities that teach skills that will lead to a cleaner, greener local environment and happier, healthier lifestyles.

Their monthly repair cafe and Library of Things place an emphasis on a Fix It, Don't Ditch It approach.

Interested to get involved? Find out more about the group and how at: https://ocva.org.uk/2026/09/01/member-spotlight-sustainable-didcot/

01/09/2026

Are you feeling close to burnout? Stretched too thinly at work?

Build a more sustainable approach to work in our popular workshop 'Working Well Without Burning Out'.

You will learn about boundaries and the practical things you can do to start getting some of your energy back.

Run by Louisa Daubney, a trained Life Coach and certified Burnout Coach who works with purpose-driven individuals who feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or stretched too thin from constantly putting work and others first.

📆 Thursday 8 October
🕛 9.30am - 1pm
📍 OCVA Offices, Oxford

Cost from £40pp.

Find out more at: https://ocva.org.uk/training-and-development/current-courses/

27/08/2026

Are you a charity or community group leader in Oxfordshire? Have you heard of First Stop?

It's a free, confidential service offering one-to-one mentoring. First Stop is a first point of contact for leaders seeking guidance, support and information.

👉Appointments are online. The next slots are available on Tuesday 15 September: https://www.charitymentors.co.uk/first-stop

26/08/2026

Yes, we are mentioning Christmas in August but for good reason! Join our lunchtime webinar and discover how to elevate your Christmas fundraising with easyfundraising.

For charities and community groups, the festive season can be a valuable opportunity to raise extra funds through everyday online shopping, at no extra cost to supporters.

Join our free, informal lunchtime session with easyfundraising’s Charity Manager, Becky Coleman. Discover how the platform works and how to get started to make the most of this opportunity.

📆 Tuesday 20 October, 12pm
📍 Online

Book your spot at: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1995902401812?aff=oddtdtcreator

24/08/2026

Are you hosting an event to raise awareness of your charity?

Our online calendar promotes events from our OCVA Members. From fundraisers and workshops to open days and volunteering events, take a look on our: https://ocva.org.uk/upcoming-events/

And if you're an OCVA Member, bear this offer in mind when you have an event coming up! We're here to help support you and your work.

21/08/2026

Invest in yourself this autumn by spending a little time this summer planning ahead!

We've got a variety of training courses and workshops running from September onwards. Developed especially for people working in the voluntary sector. Check them all out, we'd love you to join us!

https://ocva.org.uk/training-and-development/current-courses/

If your organisation is an OCVA Member, you receive a discount on the price too.

20/08/2026

This week we welcomed Ben Thompson to one of our lunchtime learning sessions.

Ben brilliantly discussed the charity employment landscape, how your organisation can stand out in a crowded job market and how to attract and retain excellent talent in the charity sector.

If you couldn't join us, you can watch Ben's presentation on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFgj8u6dF1U&t=7s

He's packed it with tips and advice so well worth a watch!

We'll be adding more videos over the coming months, so subscribe if you'd like to stay in the loop.

Expert recruiter Ben Thompson discusses how charities can create jo...

18/08/2026

Are you looking for tailored funding advice? Join us for a dedicated funding session on Thursday 15 October.

✔ Meet with funders for tailored advice
✔ Gain insights into funding opportunities and local initiatives
✔ Enhance your organisation’s capacity with expert guidance

Meet with the Regional Funding Officer from the National Lottery Community Fund and representatives from OCVA, Oxfordshire Community Foundation, West Oxfordshire District Council and Charity Mentors Oxfordshire.

We'll be at the Witney Corn Exchange most of the day but you'll need to book an appointment: https://tinyurl.com/fundingsession

12/08/2026

SAVE THE DATE!

We're bringing our popular Volunteer Fair to Templars Square in Oxford on Wednesday 30 September.

➡ Chat to a range of local charities and community groups
➡ Find out about volunteering and its many benefits
➡ Discover the various ways you can get involved