SAVS Volunteer Centre Manager, Emily Middlemast, has created an online information resource for those managing volunteers: http://www.savs-southend.org/volresources

Organisations are once again delivering leaflets requesting 'urgently' required items such as clothing, shoes, mobile phones, bedding etc. Please be aware that although many of these organisations appear to be charities they are in fact commercial ventures. If you have any concerns contact Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.

John’s artistic accomplishments never dimmed nor diminished following his expulsion from Canterbury College of Art at the beginning of his artistic career; rather they expanded: to encompass work in many diverse areas. Having contributed to films ‘Memphis Belle’ and ‘Harry Potter’ in an artistic capacity, he has also worked as a community artist, working with young people in areas of Essex; where his artistic vocabulary which includes spray can art and the mix of visual media and text finds a ready audience. Citing his influences as ‘Everything, Everywhere, Always’ this promises to be a stand alone exhibition of ambition. Painting, sculpture, spray art will all feature and many items will be available to purchase.
www.johnbulley.com

A new website will be launched in September which will offer families and professionals working with learning disability a unique opportunity to swap advice and practical tips on a range of common issues – everything from dealing with special interests to coping with constipation. NETBUDDY will pool the expertise of parents, carers, teachers and therapists to provide simple, yet ingenious solutions to everyday problems. The website organisers would like people to come forward and help make the project a success by sharing tips, ideas and giving practical advice. NETBUDDY will be the place people go to find advice, help others and connect with like-minded people who understand learning disabilities. Some examples of the tips already received include “For excessive drooling, Hyoscine Hydrobromide patches are really good.” “To prevent someone with low muscle tone from slipping down in a chair, use a bath mat cut to size.” “If someone is having an operation under general anaesthetic, use the opportunity to do other necessary procedures, such as dental work.” If you have any tips in all areas i.e. routines, sleeping, eating, toilet training, play, behaviour, dressing, tantrums, family life, support, please email them to emma@netbuddy.org.uk
 

Giving World Online (GWO) is a scheme set up to help to community groups and charities access free surplus goods from businesses and organisations whilst at the same time helping reduce the amount of goods sent to landfill.
In the next three months GWO will be engaging with businesses in the East of England region to encourage them to use GWO's free service to redirect their surplus goods onto charities and groups that could make use of them for their beneficiaries.