SCVO Media Releases

10 Mar 10 - Media Release: Charity Conference 30th March Edinburgh

10/03/2010 00:00:00

Charity conference set to get professionals and charities working together The Signet Library in Edinburgh plays host to a Charity Conference on the 30th of March. The conference, “Working together: collaboration, mergers, partnerships and more”, aims to bring together people working in the...
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09 Mar 10 - Photo + Interview Opportunity - 500th Future Jobs Fund employee starts

09/03/2010 00:00:00

Photo and interview opportunity Thursday 11th March 12.00-1.30pm Scottish HockeySportscotland National Centre InverclydeBurnside RoadLargsKA30 8RW01475 674 666 Photo opportunities:12.00 – 12.30 - New employees doing First Aid training 12.30 – 13.30 - Ann McKechin MP, Parliamentary Under...
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02 Mar 10 - Media Release: Councils 'putting price above quality' says new research

02/03/2010 00:00:00

Many local authorities are putting price above quality when commissioning public services from the voluntary sector, new research has found. The survey of voluntary organisations working in all of Scotland’s 32 local authority areas shows that some councils are working well with the sector....
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02 Mar 10 - Media Comment: PM's response to Lloyds petition "woefully inadequate"

02/03/2010 00:00:00

ON Tuesday 2nd March, the Prime Minister's office released a response to the petition to save the Lloyds TSB Foundation for Scotland. Lucy McTernan, Deputy Chief Executive of the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations said: "The Prime Minister’s response to the petition to...
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24 Feb 10 - Media Comment: Lloyds decision "terrible news" for charities

24/02/2010 00:00:00

Lucy McTernan, Deputy Chief Executive of the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations said: "The termination of the covenant is terrible news, not only for the Foundation but for the charities and voluntary organisations that rely on it. It means a loss of vital funding just when...
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22 Feb 10 - Media Release:SCOTTISH CHARITY AWARDS 2010 – CALL FOR ENTRIES

22/02/2010 00:00:00

Community groups, charities, voluntary organisations and social enterprises are being encouraged to have their hard work recognised by entering the prestigious Scottish Charity Awards. The Awards, organised by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations, are an opportunity to celebrate...
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18 Feb 10 - Media Release: It's time to 'do things differently'

18/02/2010 00:00:00

Accounts commission report confirms it’s time to ‘do things differently’Report released today confirms view of voluntary sector on public spending pressures says SCVO The national body for Scotland’s voluntary sector today said that the Account Commission’s report reinforced the views of...
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15 Feb 10 - Media Release: Ann Rowe makes smart move to SCVO

15/02/2010 00:00:00

SCVO Media Release 15th February 2010 For immediate release Ann Rowe joins the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations as Communications and Marketing Manager. With over 10 years communications experience spanning in-house and consultancy roles, Ann joins from Smarts where she...
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04 Feb 10 - Media Release: SCVO calls on Swinney to stop council cuts

04/02/2010 00:00:00

Swinney faces calls to intervene in Edinburgh budget cuts John Swinney, Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Economic Growth, today faced calls for him to intervene in a series of budget cuts proposed by City of Edinburgh Council officials. The proposals could see voluntary groups in...
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26 Jan 10 - Media Release: Charities call on councillors to stop cuts

26/01/2010 00:00:00

Charities call on Councillors to stop cuts Charities and voluntary organisations in Edinburgh today called upon local councillors, to reconsider the proposed budget cuts proposed by the City of Edinburgh Council. The proposals could see voluntary groups in the city lose up to 100 per...
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19 Jan 10 - Media Release: Ann McKechin MP visits 200th Future Jobs Fund recruit

19/01/2010 00:00:00

Ann McKechin MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Scotland Office, visited the 200th person to find work through the Future Jobs Fund in the Scottish voluntary sector on Monday 18th January.Steve Smith, 22, found work through the programme as an instrument teacher with Loud 'n' Proud -...
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18 Jan 10 - Media Release: 200th Future Jobs Fund employee rocks out in Paisley

18/01/2010 00:00:00

Photo opportunity Monday 18th January at 2.30pm Loud ‘n’ Proud(“Scotland's BEST music school; playing, teaching and living Rock & Roll”)27 School WyndPaisleyPA1 2DA 200th Future Jobs Fund employee rocks out in Paisley The 200th person to find a job in the voluntary sector through the...
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06 Jan 10 - Media Comment: SCVO responds to Freedom of Information research

06/01/2010 00:00:00

The Universty of Strathclyde published research on the use of Freedom of Information legislation by civil society organisations.The research found that 49 per cent of respondents would be discouraged from requesting information under FOI because of a fear that it might harm working or...
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21 Dec 09 - Media Release: Voluntary sector campaign forces Government u-turn

21/12/2009 00:00:00

The Scottish Government made a major u-turn last week following pressure from SCVO and voluntary organisations across Scotland. Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill announced that proposals in the Criminal Justice and Licensing Bill are to be amended. The Bill would...
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17 Dec 09 - Media Release: Scottish charities disappointed by Lloyds deal

17/12/2009 00:00:00

The Lloyds TSB Foundations for England and Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands have agreed to take a half a per cent cut in their share of the Lloyds Banking Group's profits in a new deal signed last week. The agreement was not signed by the Scottish Foundation which says...
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11 Dec 09 - Media Release: SCVO Credit Union awarded £20,000 to meet growing demand

11/12/2009 00:00:00

The SCVO Credit Union has been awarded a £20,000 grant by the Scottish Government to help it meet increasing demand. The new money, which comes from the Third Sector Credit Union Fund, will be used to help the Union build capacity, capability and financial sustainability. Tom McVay,...
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09 Dec 09 - Media Release: SCVO disappointed by lack of sector support in budget

09/12/2009 00:00:00

The body representing Scotland’s voluntary sector expressed dismay at the Chancellor’s failure to provide additional support for the sector in his pre-budget report. Martin Sime, Chief Executive of the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations said: "We’re deeply disappointed that this...
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09 Dec 09 - Letter to The Herald: Lloyds' uncharitable approach

09/12/2009 00:00:00

Dear Sir, Ruth Wishart’s analysis (9th December, ‘It’s a perfect time for Lloyds to be charitable’) of the ongoing tussle between Lloyds Banking Group and the Foundation is right on the money. Rather than pursue the futile and damaging move towards slashing the budget and undermining the...
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08 Dec 09 - Media Release: Come in from the cold to Fairways House

08/12/2009 00:00:00

Voluntary organisations based in the North are being invited to "come in from the cold" and check out the competitive facilities on offer in Fairways House, Inverness’s rural voluntary sector hub, which is run by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO). Alison Cairns, SCVO’s Head...
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03 Dec 09 - Media Comment: Lloyds TSB Foundation for Scotland under threat

03/12/2009 00:00:00

Martin Sime, Chief Executive of the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations said: "The Lloyds TSB Foundation has contributed around £6 million a year in funding to communities across Scotland. The Foundation is extremely well respected. Its reputation would not have...
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25 Nov 09 - Media Release: Two thirds of Scottish charities worried about funding

25/11/2009 00:00:00

Survey results reveals concern for future of Scotland’s charities · Two thirds of Scottish charities are worried about their funding · 52% of employees revealed they are unsure or concerned about their job · 48% felt unsure or concerned about the overall future of their...
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17 Nov 09 - Media Release: Aberdeenshire ‘rural gathering’ trailblazer

17/11/2009 00:00:00

Rural Aberdeenshire is leading the way in the development of the new Scottish National Rural Network, with a local ‘rural gathering’ on Thursday 19 November in the Lochter Activity Centre in Oldmeldrum. The free event is the first of a rolling programme that will take place over...
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12 Nov 09 - Media Release: More new recruits find work through Future Jobs Fund

12/11/2009 00:00:00

Twenty seven young unemployed people from across Scotland have found work in the voluntary sector through the UK Government’s Future Jobs Programme. The new recruits have all started their six month posts since the programme opened at the beginning of October. The new posts are part of the Future...
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10 Nov 09 - Media Release: Hard up charities to benefit from new energy scheme

10/11/2009 00:00:00

Charities, social enterprises and voluntary organisations are being encouraged to take advantage of a new wholesale purchasing scheme to protect themselves from rising energy costs. The new initiative, supported by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) and Utility Aid, sees...
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10 Nov 09 - Media Comment: Protecting vulnerable groups could cost sector £7 million

10/11/2009 00:00:00

In response to the Scottish Government's launch of a new consultation on the implementation of the Protection of Vulnerable Groups Act 2007, Lucy McTernan, Deputy Chief Executive of the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations said: "SCVO welcomes this new consultation and...
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29 Oct 09 - Media Release: New online resource welcomed

29/10/2009 00:00:00

The Third Sector Online Interactive Evidence Library received a resounding welcome at its official launch during the SCVO and University of Edinburgh Joint Research Conference.The Library is an easy to access resource for anyone interested in understanding the Third Sector in Scotland. The easily...
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29 Oct 09 - Media Release: Save the Foundation petition passes the 1000 signatures mark

29/10/2009 00:00:00

A petition calling on the Prime Minister, Gordon Brown to step in to save the Lloyds TSB Foundation for Scotland has already received over 1000 signatures.The petition started by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO), has rapidly gathered momentum since it went live on the on...
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26 Oct 09 - Media Release: Third Sector Still Innovating Despite Hard Times

26/10/2009 00:00:00

Despite the recession, charities, social enterprises and voluntary organisations (the third sector) are still innovating, according to a publication out today from the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC). The report, entitled “The third sector – discussions around key public...
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26 Oct 09 - Media Release: Groundbreaking Success for first ever joint conference

26/10/2009 00:00:00

First ever joint conference of Councils for Voluntary Service (CVS) and Volunteer Centres (VC) is a shining example for the future. Delegates at the first joint conference of Scotland’s Councils for Voluntary Service (CVS) and Volunteer Centres (VC) proclaimed it as a ‘groundbreaking moment in the...
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16 Oct 09 - Media Comment: SCVO welcomes changes to the water charge exemptions

16/10/2009 00:00:00

In response the announcement made by John Swinney today that small charities, churches and voluntary organisations will continue to be exempt from paying water and sewerage service charges, Deputy Chief Executive, Lucy McTernan said: “SCVO very much welcomes the improvements to the Government's...
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15 Oct 09 - Media Release: SCVO Credit Union celebrates World Credit Union Day by loaning £2millionth

15/10/2009 00:00:00

The SCVO* Credit Union celebrates reaching the £2 million mark in member loans on International Credit Union Day (15th October 2009). Established in 1998, SCVO Credit Union is a co-operative which provides savings and loan services to anyone who is a volunteer or employed by an...
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14 Oct 09 - Letter to the Editor: Henry Duncan would be turning in his grave

14/10/2009 00:00:00

The dire situation facing the Lloyds TSB Foundation for Scotland is disgraceful. Henry Duncan started savings clubs in rural Dumfriesshire at the turn of the 19th century to enable his parishioners to save their way out of poverty. His legacy should not be allowed to fade in the massive banking...
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13 Oct 09 - Media Comment: Future of Lloyds TSB Foundation for Scotland in doubt

13/10/2009 00:00:00

Major funder could close its doors to Scottish Charities as it is set to lose over £6million The Scottish Council for Voluntary organisations is seriously concerned that a major independent funder, The Lloyds TSB Foundation for Scotland could close its doors for the foreseeable...
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01 Oct 09 - Media Release: Helping the Third Sector Combat Recession

01/10/2009 00:00:00

The Scottish Government last night launched a £1.7 million resilience fund to help charities and voluntary organisations combat the recession. Speaking at the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations’ (SCVO) parliamentary reception, Finance Secretary John Swinney encouraged third...
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24 Sep 09 - Media Release:Third Sector guaranteed place in local decision making

24/09/2009 00:00:00

The importance of including charities, voluntary organisations and social enterprises in local decision making bodies is captured in a joint statement published today The statement, jointly agreed by the Scottish Government, the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA), the Society of...
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23 Aug 09 - Media Comment: Sector facing 'perfect storm'

23/08/2009 00:00:00

From Rob Edwards' blog;Lucy McTernan, the deputy chief executive of Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations argued that the biggest problem now facing the voluntary sector was the recession. “Evidence shows all types of funding are down and many organisations are having to tighten their belts,...
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22 Aug 09 - Media Comment: Moray New Futures providing hope for local people

22/08/2009 00:00:00

From the Press and Journal:A Moray man who went “off the rails” has paid tribute to the organisation he insists helped turn his life around.Elgin-born David Golding drank to excess and found himself hauled before the courts when he was in his early 20s.Now, as the 27-year-old looks forward to a...
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29 Jul 09 - Media Release: Voluntary sector to help thousands out of unemployment

29/07/2009 00:00:00

A consortium of Scottish voluntary organisations was today awarded a new contract to provide thousands of jobs for young unemployed people through the UK Government’s Future Jobs Fund. Over 200 voluntary organisations from across Scotland make up the consortium which will provide six month-long...
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28 Jul 09 - Media Comment: SCVO voices concerns over immigration law

28/07/2009 00:00:00

The Borders, Citizenship & Immigration bill has been passed in Westminster and includes measures to extend the time a person must live in the UK to qualify for citizenship. In all cases, however, the time can be cut by two years if a person is involved in volunteering with a charity. Lucy...
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24 Jul 09 - Change of Media Contact

24/07/2009 00:00:00

SCVO's Communcations Manager, Mark Ballard has now moved on to pastures new.For any media enquiries please contact: Sarah Beattie-Smith on 0131 474 8045 or Susan Ramsay on 0131 474 6184

23 Jul 09 - Media Comment: SCVO on calls for breakdown of charity admin costs

23/07/2009 00:00:00

A recent publication of OSCR surveys suggests that charities publish a breakdown of how much of the public's donations are spent on administration. In response, an SCVO spokesperson said: "SCVO recognises OSCR’s efforts to increase trust and confidence in charities. However, as...
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14 Jul 09 - Media Comment: SCVO responds to ICAS report on charity governance

14/07/2009 00:00:00

Responding to a recent report from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland, Stephen Maxwell, Associate Director of SCVO said; "This report is a welcome development, confirming many of SCVO positions on charity governance. In particular, we welcome the support for SCVO’s...
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06 Jul 09 - Media Comment: Drop in donations but sector still strong

06/07/2009 00:00:00

In response to a report from nfpSynergy which showed a 10% drop in public donations, SCVO Deputy Chief Executive, Lucy McTernan said: "What this survey shows is that in spite of the recession, Scots are still incredibly generous, with nearly three quarters of people coninuing to give to charity....
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30 Jun 09 - Media Release: Scottish civil society unites to tackle multiple crises

30/06/2009 00:00:00

A roundtable meeting of individuals from across Scotland’s growing civil society met on Thursday 25th to discuss the possibilities for a joint response to the economic, political and environmental crises. The group, which included academics, journalists and individuals from the faith communities,...
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16 Jun 09 - Media Release: SCVO comments on Calman Commission report

16/06/2009 00:00:00

SCVO's Convenor, Dr Alison Elliot, wrote to all the Scottish daily newspapers to lay out SCVO's views on the Calman Commission's final report;"The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations is pleased that the Calman Commission explored the impact of having separate charity law systems across the...
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16 Jun 09 - Media Comment: Outcomes from Scottish Cabinet and Third Sector Meeting

16/06/2009 00:00:00

Following the meeting between the Scottish Cabinet and third sector representatives on Tuesday 9th June 2009, Lucy McTernan, Deputy Chief Executive of SCVO said:"SCVO welcomes the opportunity for the third sector to have access to and open discussion with the Scottish Cabinet and we very...
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15 Jun 09 - Media Comment: SCVO's response to Calman Commission Final Report

15/06/2009 00:00:00

SCVO media release For immediate release 15/06/09 Devolution Commission charity proposals are a muddle to fix a muddle, warns Scottish voluntary sector The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) has warned that the Calman Commission on Scottish Devolution’s proposals on charity...
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12 Jun 09 - Media Release: Winners named in TFN Scottish Charity Awards

12/06/2009 00:00:00

The diversity of Scotland’s charity and voluntary sector was celebrated on Thursday night at the TFN Scottish Charity Awards, highlighting the industry’s resilience and innovation. Bethany Christian Trust, RNIB Scotland and a partnership between RSBP and The Famous Grouse were amongst the...
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12 Jun 09 - Media Release: Perthshire man is Scottish Charity Champion

12/06/2009 00:00:00

Perthshire resident Major David Noble has won the TFN Scottish Charity Champion Award for his outstanding contribution to veterans’ services for nearly 20 years. Major Noble is currently a trustee of the Black Watch Regimental Association and has held similar positions at Poppyscotland, Veterans...
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10 Jun 09 - Media Release: SCVO welcomes funding increase for rural communities

10/06/2009 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) has welcomed changes to the Scotland Rural Development Programme which is set to increase the rate of funding available for community groups from 50% to 90%. The new money will help rural communities to develop and renew their village...
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26 May 09 - Media Comment: SCVO welcomes boost in lottery ticket sales

26/05/2009 00:00:00

In response to the news that sales of tickets for the National Lottery have seen the biggest surge for ten years, Deputy Chief Executive, Lucy McTernan said: "SCVO very much welcomes the news that record ticket sales will mean additional money for good causes. Charities and voluntary...
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26 May 09 - Media Release: TFN Scottish Charity Awards shortlist announced

26/05/2009 00:00:00

Innovative charities helping people rise to the challenges of the recession, through employment, training and other community-led projects, have been recognised in this year’s TFN Scottish Charity Awards. The 15 charities shortlisted in the TFN Awards are leading the way in demonstrating how the...
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22 May 09 - Media Release: Businesses and Charities join forces in Aberdeen

22/05/2009 00:00:00

North-east businesses and charities will be joining forces to tackle the recession on Tuesday, May 26, in Aberdeen. More than 100 businesses, charities and community organisations will attend the ‘Business Know How’ programme’s showcase event to learn from each other, share skills and...
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22 May 09 - Media Comment: Counterfeiters target charity shops

22/05/2009 00:00:00

In response to the news that criminals are targeting charity shops with counterfeit notes, Mark Ballard, Campaigns and Communications Manager for the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations said: "Charities are facing a real squeeze on their income due to the recession, just when...
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22 May 09 - Media Release: Edinburgh charities up for Scottish Charity Awards

22/05/2009 00:00:00

4 Edinburgh charities have been short-listed for in this year’s TFN Scottish Charity Awards. A local campaign using Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson to rejuvenate the image of the Boys’ Brigade, a project to help South Asian women settle into healthier lives and another that saw young...
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22 May 09 - Media Release: Paisley charity up for Scottish Charity Awards

22/05/2009 00:00:00

Already celebrating its 150th anniversary, Paisley’s Kibble Education and Care Centre has also been made a finalist in this year’s TFN Scottish Charity Awards, in the Charity of the Year section. The Charity of the Year Award is sponsored by Class Telecommunications, the lead procurer for...
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22 May 09 - Media Release: Glasgow charities up for Scottish Charity Awards

22/05/2009 00:00:00

A project that saw fruit trees planted in George Square and another that has helped young people move from the justice system into training and employment have been recognised in this year’s TFN Scottish Charity Awards. The Children’s Orchard project is a finalist in the Community Action category...
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22 May 09 - Media Release: Perthshire man up for Scottish Charity Champion Award

22/05/2009 00:00:00

Perthshire man Major David Noble has been shortlisted for an award at this year’s TFN Scottish Charity Awards. David has been nominated for a Charity Champion Award which recognizes outstanding achievement by an individual. The award is sponsored by Digital UK, the not-for-profit company...
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22 May 09 - Media Release: East Lothian woman up for Scottish Charity Award

22/05/2009 00:00:00

North Berwick resident Maggie Sheddan has been shortlisted in this year’s TFN Scottish Charity Awards. Maggie has been short-listed for a Charity Champion Award, which recognizes outstanding achievement by an individual, for her support of the Scottish Seabird Centre. The award is sponsored by...
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22 May 09 - Media Release: Skye man up for Scottish Charity Champion Award

22/05/2009 00:00:00

Skye resident Iain Campbell has been shortlisted for an award at this year’s TFN Scottish Charity Awards. Iain has been nominated for a Charity Champion Award, which recognizes outstanding achievement by an individual, for his support of the Highland Hospice. The award is sponsored by Digital...
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22 May 09 - Media Release: Highland charities up for Scottish Charity Awards

22/05/2009 00:00:00

Two Highland charities, Care in Strathnairn and the Highland Hospice’s fundraiser Iain Campbell, are among the finalists in this year’s TFN Scottish Charity Awards. The Care in Strathnairn Handyperson service has been shortlisted in the Community Action award, recognising projects that make an...
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13 May 09 - Media Comment: Future Jobs Fund has great potential

13/05/2009 00:00:00

Today Lucy McTernan, Deputy Chief Executive commented "The recession means charities and voluntary organisations are facing a decline in income, just when their services are needed the most. Unemployment is rising and its becoming harder for young people in Scotland to find work. "SCVO is...
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12 May 09 - Media Comment: Training key for good governance

12/05/2009 00:00:00

In response to the report by New Philanthropy Capital, Lucy McTernan, Deputy Chief Executive of SCVO said: "SCVO strongly disagrees with the NPC's claim that charity leaders are badly managed and poorly resourced. Trustees and board members play a vital role in Scotland's 23,000 charities...
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27 Apr 09 - Media Release: SCVO Welcomes Equality Bill

27/04/2009 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations today welcomed the UK Government’s new Equality Bill which had its first reading in the House of Commons yesterday (Monday). The Bill will simplify existing legislation, improve rules around public service procurement and extend...
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24 Apr 09 - Media Release: Expert helping charities in Perthshire and Nigeria

24/04/2009 00:00:00

Voluntary sector staff from Perthshire and beyond benfitted from an expert communications seminar and networking lunch in Birnam on Thursday.The seminar, provided by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) and CVS Perth and Kinross, was presented by one of Scotland's...
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23 Apr 09 - Media Release: New Deal Budget Announcement Welcome

23/04/2009 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations’ Deputy Chief Executive Lucy McTernan said: "SCVO welcomes Alistair Darling’s announcement in today’s Budget of a further £1.7 billion for JobCentre Plus and New Deal development funding and we look forward to the voluntary sector playing a key...
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22 Apr 09 - Budget comment: Gift Aid Disappointment

22/04/2009 00:00:00

Lucy McTernan, Deputy Chief Executive of SCVO commented on the budget annoucement:"The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations is disappointed by the Government’s failure to bring forward much needed reform of the Gift Aid system for increasing the value of personal giving to charities....
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19 Mar 09 - Media Release: Recognising success in 2009

19/03/2009 00:00:00

TFN SCOTTISH CHARITY AWARDS 2009 – CALL FOR ENTRIES The TFN Scottish Charity Awards is calling on community groups, charities, voluntary organisations and social enterprises to have their hard work recognised by entering the prestigious TFN Awards. The TFN Awards, organised by...
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17 Mar 09 - Media Release: Committee Supportive of Fairer Funding

17/03/2009 00:00:00

The Public Petitions Committee today praised the vital work of Scotland’s voluntary sector and gave a resounding commitment to take action on the sector’s “Fairer Funding Statement”. The Committee were hearing evidence from voluntary sector representatives on a joint petition calling for fairer...
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26 Nov 08 - Media Comment: SCVO Rebuts UK Government's Denial of 70% Lottery Cuts

26/11/2008 00:00:00

Lucy McTernan, acting chief executive of SCVO said: "SCVO's calculation that there will be a 70% reduction in lottery funding from this year to next is based on figures obtained directly from the Big Lottery Fund using the same formula which BLF Scotland uses to work out their share of UK...
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24 Nov 08 - Media Release: 70% Decline in Lottery Cash for Scottish Charities

24/11/2008 00:00:00

Lottery cash available to charities and voluntary groups will fall by 70% next year, according to new figures from the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO). Funding available from the BIG Lottery Fund (BLF) is predicted to fall from around £85 million a year for the last three...
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17 Nov 08 - Media Release: Voluntary Sector thinks big

17/11/2008 00:00:00

The Big Lottery Fund has today launched Big Thinking, a UK-wide consultation to gather views on its funding priorities for the coming years. BIG provides an invaluable source of funding to the UK voluntary sector, amounting to £1,275 million since 2004. In the current economic climate when...
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10 Nov 08 - Technology Conference Opens Up Opportunities for Voluntary Sector

10/11/2008 00:00:00

SCVO Press Release For immediate release 10th November 2008 The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations and Microsoft UK are jointly hosting an event on the 12th of November, designed to help charities and voluntary organisations explore what they can achieve using...
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05 Nov 08 - Media Comment: OSCR's decision on fee-paying schools

05/11/2008 00:00:00

Lucy McTernan, Deputy Chief Executive of SCVO said:"SCVO believes that charity legislation ought to reflect the public's understanding of charity - that it is primarily for the benefit of disadvantaged members of society. Consistent with that view, the 2005 Scottish charities act provides...
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20 Oct 08 - SCVO Seeks Action from Government on Voluntary Sector Finances

20/10/2008 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations has published a new report calling upon the UK and Scottish Governments to take immediate action to soften the blow of the financial crisis on the voluntary sector. SCVO has called on UK and Scottish Ministers to implement a four point plan which...
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10 Oct 08 - SCVO Calls for Financial Protection to be Extended to Voluntary Sector

10/10/2008 00:00:00

The Scottish voluntary sector, is today calling on the UK Treasury and the Scottish Government to ensure that charity and voluntary sector assets are protected against the effects of the current financial crisis. It is estimated that around £120 million of UK voluntary sector money is tied up...
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07 Oct 08 - Voluntary Sector Cautiously Welcomes Developments in Protection of Vulnerable Groups Scheme

07/10/2008 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations has today cautiously welcomed new measures laid out in the Scottish Government’s scheme to implement the Protection of Vulnerable Groups Act 2007. However, the cost of retrospectively checking all paid voluntary sector workers in the 'regulated...
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18 Sep 08 - Ground-Breaking New Partnership Between Business and Voluntary Sector

18/09/2008 00:00:00

A unique new partnership project between local and international business and the voluntary sector was launched today in Aberdeen. The Business Know How and Social Change pilot project is the first of its kind in the UK and will improve the sharing of skills and knowledge between the private sector...
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09 Sep 08 - New Task Group For Third Sector And Government Launched

09/09/2008 00:00:00

A new high-level group has been created to help improve coordination of the work of Third Sector organisations in Scotland, Scotland’s 32 local authorities and the Scottish Government. Creation of this new body is a first for Scotland, and represents a new way of doing business for government and...
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08 Jul 08 - Highland Capital Plays King of Culture

08/07/2008 00:00:00

Inverness was the Highland’s cultural focal point on Tuesday, playing host to a amazing mixture of local talent in a celebration of the growth of diversity across the population of Highland region. Organised by Highlands and Islands Equality Forum (HIEF), a project of the Scottish Council for...
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30 May 08 - Voluntary Sector Welcomes Continued Support for Water Rates Exemption

30/05/2008 00:00:00

The voluntary sector today gave a cautious welcome to the Scottish Governments determination to continue its Water Rates Exemption for the voluntary sector. The exemption will continue the current scheme until 2014, giving relief to the many voluntary organisations and charities that would have...
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08 May 08 - Don't Sacrifice Good Causes To Fund Commonwealth Legacy Warn Charities

08/05/2008 00:00:00

Government Ministers were warned today not undermine funding for charities in their efforts to secure a lasting legacy for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games in 2014. The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations is concerned that money to pay for legacy projects may be diverted from Lottery...
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21 Feb 08 - Media Release: SCVO on YouTube

21/02/2008 00:00:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQnQPK_SuewClick on the link above for a quick fire introduction to the work of SCVO

19 Feb 08 - Volunteer Army Gathers To Champion Village Halls

19/02/2008 00:00:00

Around 250 members of the volunteer army who manage rural Scotland’s Village Halls and other community facilities will gather in Aviemore this weekend, at the first ever Scottish Village Halls Summit. The response to the event has been described by the organisers as “overwhelming”, with every...
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12 Feb 08 - Rural Photo Competition Invites Entries

12/02/2008 00:00:00

The Rural Gateway website has launched a new photo competition for 2008 – and this year it’s bigger and better. In 2008, the Rural Gateway wants photos from all around rural Scotland on a wide range of subjects from wildlife to landscapes to folk getting the craic. The competition has...
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12 Feb 08 - SCVO Expresses Vetting And Barring Concerns

12/02/2008 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations today expressed its concerns about the implementation of police checks for all adults working with children or vulnerable adults. The closure of consultation on secondary legislation for the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) today marks the...
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05 Feb 08 - Voluntary Sector Awards Seek Nominations

05/02/2008 00:00:00

Local organisations in the Highlands are being asked to apply to Scotland’s national awards scheme to recognise talent in the voluntary sector. The Third Force News (TFN) Awards, which are in their second year, aim to recognise the excellent work that is carried out in Scotland’s voluntary...
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15 Jan 08 - Voluntary Sector Demands End to Olympics Plunder

15/01/2008 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) today called for an end to the diversion of lottery money from good causes to the Olympics. In advance of the debate at Westminster about moving an additional £675m from good causes to the Olympic fund. This would bring the total...
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29 Nov 07 - Charities call for 'red tape' cull

29/11/2007 00:00:00

Voluntary organisations in Scotland have called for cuts in the amount of red tape and bureaucracy they endure, following the release of new research showing that 235,000 hours a week are being spent on form filling. The research released today by the Scottish Council for Voluntary...
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19 Nov 07 - 'Halls for All' petition hits Parliament

19/11/2007 00:00:00

News Release - 16 November 2007 Halls for All Petition hits Parliament A petition that demands a better deal for Scotland’s village halls will be formally presented to the Scottish Parliament on Tuesday 20th November. The Halls for All petition gathered a remarkable 1,250 signatures on the...
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12 Sep 07 - Public services need 'radical reform'

12/09/2007 00:00:00

PUBLIC SERVICES NEED ‘RADICAL REFORM’ SAYS CHARITY CHIEF The Chief Executive of Scotland’s charity umbrella organisation has called for a radical change in the way that money is invested in public services at a conference in Edinburgh today. Martin Sime from the Scottish Council for Voluntary...
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27 Jun 07 - Rural MSPs get 'Halls' homework

27/06/2007 00:00:00

As they prepare for their summer break from the Scottish Parliament, rural MSPs are being asked to carry out a “summer homework project” by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations. Every member with a rural or semi-rural constituency will receive a Village Halls campaign pack from...
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31 May 07 - Village Halls crisis

31/05/2007 00:00:00

Executive is urged to tackle “slow-burning crisis” in Scotland’s Village Halls The Scottish Executive are being urged to tackle a “slow-burning crisis” in Scotland’s Village Halls by boosting financial support and cutting red tape. The campaign, led by the Scottish Council for...
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24 May 07 - Third sector on the up

24/05/2007 00:00:00

SCVO Press Release for immediate release CHARITIES ARE MAJOR PLAYERS WITH SCOTLAND’S MOST VULNERABLE A report published today shows that charities and voluntary organisations are taking on both a significant and increasing role in Scottish society, with Scotland’s vulnerable people coming to...
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21 May 07 - Community training needs uncovered

21/05/2007 00:00:00

A new online tool has been launched today to help Highlands and Islands community groups identify their training needs. This unique tool ensures that community groups across the region get connected to the right training opportunities. The tool is easy to use: all a group has to do is...
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16 Apr 07 - Highland manifesto

16/04/2007 00:00:00

North election hopefuls told: “It’s time to value the Voluntary Sector!” Council and Scottish Parliament candidates in Highland have been asked to listen to the voices of the voluntary sector, value their work and create a climate in which voluntary activity can flourish. The call comes in...
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24 Jan 07 - Don’t raid the lottery to fund the Olympics

24/01/2007 00:00:00

A new report from a cross-party committee of MPs has strengthened the campaign to ensure that further Lottery funds are not diverted to pay for the rising cost of the 2012 Olympics, according to the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO). SCVO, the umbrella organisation representing...
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16 Jan 07 - Living in rural Scotland photo competition launched

16/01/2007 00:00:00

The Rural Gateway website has launched its first photo competition, with the theme ‘Living in rural Scotland.’ The public are being asked to submit images that reflect what it is like to live and work in Scotland’s rural communities. Photos could feature people at work, taking part in a...
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16 Oct 06 - Charities say Get Some From Gordon

16/10/2006 00:00:00

CHARITIES SAY GET SOME FROM GORDON Charities in Scotland are missing out on over £80 million a year in lost tax contributions to donations. Under the Treasury’s Gift Aid scheme charities can claim a 28 per cent addition to contributions from donations from tax-payers but only if the...
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25 Sep 06 - Deep concerns on vetting costs

25/09/2006 00:00:00

VOLUNTARY GROUPS ‘DEEP CONCERN’ OVER DISCLOSURE COSTS As the Scottish Parliament start their deliberations on the first stage of the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Bill, voluntary sector groups have revealed that the decision to retrospectively check every one of the 100,000 staff...
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29 Aug 06 - Fairways lecture series starts

29/08/2006 00:00:00

"BEST CHANCE IN A GENERATION" FOR SCOTLAND'S THIRD FORCE SCVO Chief launches Fairways House Lecture Series with call for end to junior partner status Scotland's voluntary sector has the best chance in a generation to stop being a junior partner and become a real third force in Scotland's public...
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19 Jun 06 - Voluntary sector manifesto launch

19/06/2006 00:00:00

VOLUNTARY SECTOR MANIFESTO LAUNCH Scotland’s charities and other voluntary organisation launched their Manifesto for the Voluntary Sector this morning and called for both more and more intelligent funding. The 16-page document has been drawn up in consultation with over 30 key networks and...
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15 Jun 06 - Manifesto media call

15/06/2006 00:00:00

MEDIA CALL VOLUNTARY SECTOR MANIFESTO LAUNCH Charities and other voluntary organisation will launch their Manifesto for the Voluntary Sector on Monday 19 June. The 16-page document has been drawn up in consultation with over 30 key networks and intermediary bodies and calls on the Scottish...
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14 Jun 06 - Highlands jobs boost

14/06/2006 00:00:00

There is good news for jobseekers in the Highlands and Western Isles this week with the establishment of a new partnership aimed at getting people back to work. The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) has teamed up with partner organisations to deliver the New Deal programme for...
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13 Jun 06 - Boost for jobseekers in Moray, Orkney and Shetland

13/06/2006 00:00:00

There is good news for jobseekers in Moray, Orkney and Shetland this week with the establishment of a new partnership aimed at getting people back to work. The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) has teamed up with partner organisations to deliver the New Deal programme for Job...
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21 Apr 06 - CIVICUS pre-launch in Glasgow

21/04/2006 00:00:00

The largest event on the world-wide civil society calendar is being launched in Glasgow this morning. The CIVICUS World Assembly which will be held in the city in June is already being heralded as the next step on from last year’s Make Poverty History campaign. Over 1000 delegates from 100...
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30 Mar 06 - SCVO announce job losses

30/03/2006 00:00:00

Scotland’s major organisation for charities and other voluntary groups has announced a series of job losses following the loss of two New Deal contracts and constraints on other funding. The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations announced that bids for two New Deal contracts in...
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21 Mar 06 - New forum to examine public services

21/03/2006 00:00:00

OPEN DEBATE ON PUBLIC SERVICES ESSENTIAL SAYS NEW FORUM A new group set up to examine public services in Scotland have said that the future of public services needs to be debated openly to ensure that Scotland is not left behind England in serving communities effectively. The Better Public...
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08 Feb 06 - SCVO statement on 'Bichard' child protection measures in Scotland

08/02/2006 00:00:00

Lucy McTernan, Director of Corporate Affairs said "Children have the right to be protected and also to be allowed to flourish without fear and mistrust. It is this dual approach which is at the heart of the voluntary sectors agenda for the reform of Scotland's child protection mechanisms. We...
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15 Dec 05 - SCVO responds to Executive's 'vision' for sector

15/12/2005 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations in Scotland (SCVO) has broadly welcomed the Scottish Executive’s commitment to grow the voluntary sector after the publication of the Executive’s ‘vision’ for the sector. The Deputy Communities Minister Johann...
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07 Dec 05 - Charity regulator's chance to engage with sector

07/12/2005 00:00:00

The newly elected Policy Committee of the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations in Scotland insists that Scotland’s new charity regulator needs to be flexible to the needs of the sector to allow it to develop effectively. The Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator...
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09 Nov 05 - Red Tape - Cut it out!

09/11/2005 00:00:00

The cost of red tape and bureaucracy is costing charities and other voluntary organisations millions in wasted staff time and needless administration. Some organisations have to answer multiple regulatory authorities – most wanting much the same information but in different formats and...
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19 Sep 05 - Voluntary sector leaders to put the spark back into Europe

19/09/2005 00:00:00

Voluntary sector leaders to put the spark back into Europe Embargo: Monday 19th September As part of the UK Presidency of the EU the Chief Executives of the four UK umbrella bodies representing the voluntary and community sector are this week meeting EU leaders in...
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14 Sep 05 - Voluntary and community sector calls for reduction in Lottery tax

14/09/2005 00:00:00

Voluntary and community sector calls for reduction in Lottery tax Release embargo: 00.01 hours Thursday 14th September The national umbrella organisations that represent the UK’s voluntary and community sector are calling for reform of the 12% tax on the National...
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05 Sep 05 - Citizen participation is building a stronger Scotland

05/09/2005 00:00:00

MEDIA RELEASE Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations 05 September 2005 Citizen participation is building a stronger ScotlandTuesday sees the launch of the first self-assessment of civil society in Scotland – the collective term for voluntary sector, trade unions, faith groups and...
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22 Aug 05 - Rural Scots Favour Wind-Power

22/08/2005 00:00:00

A month-long poll on a Scotland-wide rural website has found that an overwhelming majority of people are in favour of wind power developments - but they are split on the way forward for the renewable source.Nearly 800 users participated in the Scottish Executive-funded Rural Community Gateway...
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18 Aug 05 - New Website Provides Support for Village Halls

18/08/2005 00:00:00

Village and community hall committees in Scotland can now access a website that will help them manage their buildings. www.scvo.org.uk/VillageHalls will provide up to date information on the increasingly complex issues involved in managing a hall. The website will also provide an opportunity...
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19 Jul 05 - New Rural Champion in Inverness

19/07/2005 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations has appointed a new assistant director for rural affairs to head up its operation from Inverness.David Stewart will formally take up the post on August 16, replacing Helen Betts-Brown who announced her retirement last month. A former Inverness...
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05 Jul 05 - Campaign Launched on EU Structural Funds

05/07/2005 00:00:00

National voluntary sector umberella bodies throughout the UK are calling on European Union (EU) leaders to ensure that when the EU budget for the next seven years is agreed, it will not dramatically cut the levels of funding to the UK voluntary and community sector. The Northern Ireland...
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28 Jun 05 - Voluntary Sector on The March to Make Poverty History

28/06/2005 00:00:00

Thousands of voluntary sector workers and volunteers are expected to join the Make Poverty History demonstrations over the next week. "The voluntary sector campaigns for a better, fairer world both at home and abroad", said Martin Sime, chief executive of the Scottish Council for Voluntary...
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09 Jun 05 - Scotland's Charities Celebrate Law Success

09/06/2005 00:00:00

Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Bill passed by MSPs Today marked the successful end point in a ten year campaign to create a legal framework of regulation to support Scotland’s thriving voluntary sector. This afternoon MSPs voted through the final stage of the...
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01 Jun 05 - Partnership Set to Boost Social Economy

01/06/2005 00:00:00

Scotland’s thriving social economy is set to receive a major boost with the creation of a new development partnership. The new partnership called Social Economy Scotland, was launched today by Ian Mitchell, Director of Regeneration at Communities Scotland, at the annual Heriot Watt Social...
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24 May 05 -

24/05/2005 00:00:00

20 May 05 - Way Forward for Voluntary Sector Strategic Funding Review

20/05/2005 00:00:00

In Thursday’s Scottish Parliament debate on the Voluntary Sector and the Social Economy, Communities Minister Malcolm Chisholm MSP confirmed that agreement has been reached by the Scottish Executive, SCVO and Cosla on a Strategic Funding Review Statement of Principles. Mr Chisholm...
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05 May 05 - New Futures in Moray

05/05/2005 00:00:00

A Project designed to help marginalised people in Moray get into the labour market was re-launched yesterday after securing funding for the forthcoming year. Moray New Futures was established in 2000 to assist people from the age of 16 to 35 overcome barriers to employment. Over the past five...
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27 Apr 05 - Sector Urged to Respond to BLF Consultation

27/04/2005 00:00:00

SCVO today issued its response on the future of Lottery funding in Scotland and has urged other voluntary organisations to take part in the consultation. The response has been made to The Big Lottery Fund in Scotland which is currently consulting on the proposed funding framework for its...
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19 Apr 05 - Manifesto Sets Agenda For General Election

19/04/2005 00:00:00

SCVO issued its manifesto for the General Election this week setting out the agenda for the Scottish voluntary and community sector. The proposals contained in the statement relate to matters reserved by Westminster and include the Lottery, taxation, giving and Europe. Among the...
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28 Feb 05 - Surfers Urged To Join The Fast Lane And Raise Cash For Charities

28/02/2005 00:00:00

Consumers in the market for high-speed BT Broadband internet access are being urged to get behind a new scheme to raise cash for their favourite charities. The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) has teamed up with BT Broadband to invite charities and voluntary...
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28 Feb 05 - Charities Urged To Sign Up For Internet Fundraising Initiative

28/02/2005 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) today urged charities across the UK to link up with a new internet initiative and help boost their own coffers. SCVO is inviting charities and voluntary organisations to become BT Broadband resellers - and earn...
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15 Feb 05 - CIVICUS to hold 2006 World Assembly in Glasgow

15/02/2005 00:00:00

International alliance of civil society organisations will bring 1,000 delegates to Scotland to tackle major social, economic and political issues CIVICUS, an international alliance of organisations dedicated to strengthening citizen participation and civil society worldwide, has announced...
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14 Feb 05 - Scotland’s Voluntary Sector On The Up

14/02/2005 00:00:00

Donations, volunteering and public service contracts have all risen substantially according to a new research report compiled by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations. The report, published to coincide with The Gathering 2005 – Scotland’s voluntary sector fair, which...
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31 Jan 05 - Scotland's charities need more recruits

31/01/2005 00:00:00

Scotland's charities and voluntary organisations already employ more than 100,000 people, but due to the increasing amount of work they do new employees are now needed. The sector needs to attract people from a range of professional backgrounds to fill existing...
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25 Jan 05 - Response to Sewel Memorandum (National Lottery Bill)

25/01/2005 00:00:00

SCVO welcomes the Sewell motion which devolves to Scotland control over Scotland's share of Big Lottery Fund expenditure, and urges Ministers to champion a non-prescriptive approach to grant-making in Scotland which allows communities to decide projects and priorities for themselves. However we...
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13 Dec 04 - Programme To Tackle Labour Market Discrimination

13/12/2004 00:00:00

A new innovative project to tackle labour market disparities experienced by black and minority ethnic workers in Scotland will be launched today at the Scottish Parliament by Cathy Peattie, MSP, the Chair of Linked Work and Training Trust Central. The project is the result of a...
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16 Nov 04 - Bill Set to Create 21st Century Charity

16/11/2004 00:00:00

SCVO warmly welcomes the publication today of the first ever Scottish Charity law Bill. Commenting, Martin Sime, chief executive of SCVO said: “This Bill will make a big and positive impact on charity in Scotland. It will underpin public support for thousands of good causes and will,...
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05 Nov 04 - SCVO Calls For ‘Light Touch’ in Charity Monitoring

05/11/2004 00:00:00

Plans to introduce a temporary monitoring system for Scotland’s charities have been described as ‘over complex’ and ‘inappropriately ambitious’ by SCVO. Earlier this year the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator announced its intention to launch a...
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20 Oct 04 - Voluntary Sector Harnesses Collective Power to Tackle Discrimination

20/10/2004 00:00:00

The Scottish public’s view on equality is set to be challenged with the launch of a new coalition. The Scottish Voluntary Sector Equality & Human Rights Coalition, co-established by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations will be launched at Glasgow City...
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01 Oct 04 - No Imposition of English Regulation on Scottish Charities!

01/10/2004 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) has raised concerns that Scottish Charities may be forced to adhere to English regulation.The concerns are included in SCVO’s response to the Exposure Draft of the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended...
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22 Sep 04 - Water Charges Could Force Charities to go Under

22/09/2004 00:00:00

Many Scottish charities delivering vital services across the country could be forced to close unless the Scottish Executive amends legislation currently before the Scottish Parliament to ensure their water charges remain affordable. That was the message from the Scottish Council for Voluntary...
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13 Sep 04 - Conference Looks at Improving Access to Rural Services

13/09/2004 00:00:00

Delegates from rural communities across Scotland will be heading for New Lanark next week (21st September) for the fourth annual Scottish Rural Services Conference. The theme of this year’s event is “Improving Access to Rural Services”. As well as speakers and workshops,...
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07 Sep 04 - Response to Legislative Programme

07/09/2004 00:00:00

SCVO welcomes the inclusion of the Charities and Trustee Investment Bill in the First Minister’s legislative programme announced today. Commenting Lucy McTernan, director of corporate affairs said: “Ten years ago the voluntary sector in Scotland embarked upon a...
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31 Aug 04 - Water Relief for Some Charities

31/08/2004 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations has today welcomed the Scottish Executive’s new approach to setting water charges and the relief this brings to some of Scotland’s charities and voluntary organisations. Under proposals contained in the Executive’s...
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24 Aug 04 - Statement on Futurebuilders Scotland

24/08/2004 00:00:00

The launch of Futurebuilders Scotland represents a milestone in the government's acknowledgement of the vital economic role that voluntary organisations play in society. The funds available should boost Scotland's social economy, helping existing organisations and encouraging the...
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18 Aug 04 - What Is A Charity? Legislation Must Be Clear

18/08/2004 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations has today called for the creation of a clear framework to assess what is and what is not a charity. The call came as SCVO released its response, backed by the voluntary sector policy committee, to the Scottish...
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10 Aug 04 - Guide Your Way To The Media

10/08/2004 00:00:00

Charities and voluntary organisations have today been given a boost in promoting their work through Scotland’s media with the launch of the mediaguide website, booklet and CD-ROM. Communication through the media is a vital part of the work of Scotland’s community and volunteer...
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13 Jul 04 - Spending Review Should Point The Way Ahead For Scotland

13/07/2004 00:00:00

The Scottish Executive has been urged by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations to follow Gordon Brown’s good example set in yesterday’s CSR announcement and invest in the voluntary sector. With money destined for Scotland rising by £4.2 billion...
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06 Jul 04 - Beacon Hunts For Scotland’s Charity Heroes

06/07/2004 00:00:00

The Beacon Fellowship today launches its search for this year’s winner of the Beacon Prize. Beacon is asking the public to nominate a person they feel has made a significant contribution to charity, whether through resources, time or specialist skills. The winner will...
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22 Jun 04 - Sector Eager to Give View on Charity Law Reform

22/06/2004 00:00:00

Charities and voluntary organisations in Scotland are seizing their opportunity to shape future legislation on charity law by enthusiastically participating in the consultation process. Yesterday, more than 200 representatives from Scotland’s charities and voluntary organisations...
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08 Jun 04 - SCVO Welcomes Report on CAP Reform

08/06/2004 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations has welcomed the "cautious but balanced" report on CAP Reform by the Scottish Parliament's Environment and Rural Affairs Committee, released today. SCVO's Rural Policy Manager Norman MacAskill said: "The Committee's report reflects the...
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02 Jun 04 - Charities Bill Opportunity Must Be Seized

02/06/2004 00:00:00

Today’s publication of the draft Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Bill is a watershed for Scotland’s voluntary sector. The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations welcomes the draft Charities Bill which provides the sector with an opportunity to modernise the...
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31 May 04 - Reform of Charity Law is Imminent

31/05/2004 00:00:00

Scotland’s voluntary sector is now on the eve of the most radical shake-up of charity law in 400 years. Publication of the Charity Law Bill is expected on Wednesday this week, heralding radical changes in the way charities and voluntary organisations carry out their work in...
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11 May 04 - Volunteering Initiative Can Strengthen Society

11/05/2004 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations welcomes today's announcement on Project Scotland. Commenting at the launch of the gap-year volunteering scheme, Martin Sime, chief executive of SCVO said: "Volunteering is the lifeblood of civic society. Without people giving time directly to...
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17 Mar 04 - Budget gives little comfort to charities

17/03/2004 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations is disappointed with Today's budget as it offers little financial comfort for Scotland's voluntary sector. Commenting on the budget Stephen Maxwell, associate director at SCVO said: "Financially, this budget will leave the voluntary sector in...
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23 Feb 04 - Procurement Web-Channel Promises Big Savings For The Sector

23/02/2004 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations today launched a new service for members and voluntary organisations alike, which will provide big financial savings on essential services and products. 3rdForceBuying.com is an A-Z directory providing all 50,000 voluntary organisations in Scotland...
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23 Feb 04 - Scotland Needs More Charities

23/02/2004 00:00:00

“Scotland needs more charities and voluntary organisations”, says SCVO chief executive, Martin Sime following the publication of new research showing a drop of more than a third in the number of new charities over the last three years.“We need a strategy to accelerate the...
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23 Feb 04 - 4,000 New Jobs Created Every Year By Scotland’s Charities

23/02/2004 00:00:00

New research published today by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations shows that the voluntary sector is fast becoming one of Scotland’s major employers.Findings from the Scottish Voluntary Sector Almanac, published as part of the celebrations for the gathering –...
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19 Feb 04 - New Market Worth £2billion Opens for Business

19/02/2004 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations today launched a new service to broker deals between business suppliers and voluntary organisations and charities in Scotland directory providing businesses with sales opportunities to all 50,000 voluntary organisations in Scotland. The voluntary...
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18 Feb 04 - Response to Gordon Brown's speech at NCVO's conference

18/02/2004 00:00:00

Martin Sime, chief executive of SCVO responding to Gordon Brown's speech said: "We are encouraged by the chancellor's statement on strengthening and supporting the voluntary sector and look forward to seeing more detail in next month's budget. “There are parallel developments going...
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12 Feb 04 - SCVO calls for rapid move towards CAP spending "beyond the farm gate"

12/02/2004 00:00:00

The Scottish Executive's announcement on reform of the Common Agricultural Policy opens up the possibility of moving some CAP spending beyond the farm gate into wider community-based rural development measures. And the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations has called for the Executive to...
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12 Feb 04 - Get Ready for the Gathering

12/02/2004 00:00:00

Representatives from many of Scotland’s 50,000 voluntary organisations are heading to Glasgow for the gathering – Scotland’s first voluntary sector fair. The gathering, organised by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations, is taking place at the SECC on Monday 23 and...
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13 Jan 04 - Cap money should benefit wider rural community

13/01/2004 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations has warned ministers that approximately £750 million distributed under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) in Scotland can no longer be seen as exclusively “farmers’ money”. In a response to a Scottish Executive consultation...
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27 Nov 03 - Progressing to work in Moray

27/11/2003 00:00:00

A new project has been launched in Moray to help those who are drug free, or committed to becoming drug free, gain skills and confidence and move into employment. Progress2Work is a Jobcentre Plus programme, which has been contracted to the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) in...
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04 Nov 03 - Paisley man is milestone for national emploment programme

04/11/2003 00:00:00

Local man Paul Docherty has been named as the 10,000th person to take part in the New Deal employment programme with Scotland’s voluntary sector. Since the government introduced New Deal in 1998, thousands of Scots have been taking part in work experience with Scotland’s voluntary...
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29 Sep 03 - Call for scottish control of £60 million of lottery funds

29/09/2003 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) is demanding that £60 million of lottery funds be controlled and spent in Scotland in order to meet Scottish social priorities. The call will be made at the fourth annual Lottery Monitor conference for Scotland, which will be held at...
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24 Sep 03 - Charities win fight for charity law reform

24/09/2003 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) today warmly welcomes the Scottish Executive’s commitment to legislate to create for the first time a legal framework governing the work of Scotland’s charities. Giving his initial reaction to the news, Martin Sime, chief...
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09 Sep 03 - Rural services conference is up to par in Carnoustie

09/09/2003 00:00:00

More than 150 delegates from across Scotland attended the third Scottish Rural Services Conference organised by SCVO and held at the Carnoustie Golf Course Hotel in Angus this week. The conference theme was “Working Together in Rural Services” and speakers highlighted the implications...
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20 Aug 03 - Scottish business urged to take up payroll

20/08/2003 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) and The Giving Campaign have teamed up to encourage more Scottish businesses to offer payroll giving to their staff. As well as being one of the most tax-effective and flexible methods of giving to charity, recent research conducted...
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14 Aug 03 - Exhibition to challenge views on race and immigration

14/08/2003 00:00:00

A timely photographic exhibition depicting how it feels to be part of an ethnic minority growing up in a white majority society will be celebrated this evening at the Gallery of Modern Art in Glasgow. The exhibition originally developed in London 15 years ago enabled a group of minority ethnic...
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07 Aug 03 - New way to fundraise for charity launched

07/08/2003 00:00:00

A new online fundraising tool that allows organisations and individuals to raise money for good causes and their favourite charities has been launched. Charitysponsor.com, is a new feature on the voluntary sector internet-portal site www.workwithus.org The facility aims to become a gateway to...
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06 Aug 03 - No mention of charity fiasco in Scottish water’s report

06/08/2003 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations has issued its response to the publishing of Scottish Water’s Annual Report earlier today. The report fails to make mention of how charities and voluntary organisations have been faring under the new system with Scottish Water doing very...
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23 Jul 03 - Up to £15,000 funding available for local groups

23/07/2003 00:00:00

Funding for local voluntary and community groups is now available from the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations. Direct Grants are for locally based voluntary and community organisations that have previously been unable to access substantial mainstream funding, and European funding in...
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03 Jul 03 - Bid launched to salvage Scotland’s lottery cash

03/07/2003 00:00:00

UK culture secretary Tessa Jowell today ducked the serious issue of whether Scotland should have its own devolved Lottery distributor – and prompted a renewed call for a 'Scottish Opportunities Fund'. Her white paper on the future of the game, and the use of the funds it generates,...
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24 Jun 03 - Local charities lacking web presence

24/06/2003 00:00:00

Research conducted by workwithus.org – the voluntary sector web-portal – has discovered that 80 per cent of Scottish charities and voluntary sector organisations don’t have a website. The high statistic comes at a time when charities are increasingly having to compete for...
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28 May 03 - Media statement on office of the scottish charity regulator

28/05/2003 00:00:00

In response to this afternoon’s announcement made by Margaret Curran, Minister for Communities on Charity Law, SCVO has issued the following statement. “SCVO welcomes the commitment to legislation and the possibility that a regulator may be placed on a statutory footing. However,...
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24 May 03 - Local charities lacking web presence

24/05/2003 00:00:00

23 May 03 - Charity ‘mismanagement’ highlights the need for charity law

23/05/2003 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations has this afternoon issued the following statement in response to the Crown Court’s ruling on Breast Cancer Research (Scotland). “This case highlights the need for the urgent introduction of a coherent regulatory framework for the...
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20 May 03 - Scotland’s lottery funds threatened by olympic ‘salami-slicing’

20/05/2003 00:00:00

The body representing the interests of charities and voluntary organisations in Scotland fears that charities in Scotland could lose millions of pounds with the introduction of a themed game to raise money for the Olympics. Camelot, the national lottery operator claim that £1.5 billion can...
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19 May 03 - Devolved lottery distributor receives executive backing

19/05/2003 00:00:00

A Lottery distributor with devolved decision-making for Scotland is looking more likely after it emerged the Scottish Executive supports the idea. A statement prepared before the dissolution of parliament but just released has revealed Scottish ministers ‘support further devolution of the...
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15 May 03 - Voluntary sector meets with new MSPs

15/05/2003 00:00:00

One of the first tasks for Scotland’s new MSPs following the election of First Minister Jack McConnell will be to meet representatives from the country’s voluntary sector. Party leaders will join other politicians at an evening reception tonight (May 15) organised by the Scottish...
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25 Apr 03 - ‘Revolving door’ is biggest obstacle to impact of ministers

25/04/2003 00:00:00

Constant portfolio changes have been a huge barrier for voluntary organisations seeking to work in partnership with government ministers and their departments. This verdict comes in a report card on devolution issued today by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations on behalf on the...
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04 Feb 03 - Voluntary sector welcomes funding review

04/02/2003 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) has welcomed today’s announcement of a review into voluntary sector funding. The review is a joint initiative by SCVO, the Scottish Executive and CoSLA. The review will examine all issues involved in voluntary sector funding...
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30 Jan 03 - Last chance for local charities to get water

30/01/2003 00:00:00

Voluntary groups facing financial hardship because of water charges are being urged to apply to Scottish Water’s exemption scheme. When the scheme - which gives eligible applicants full exemption from all water charges until 2006 - was introduced last year, environment minister Ross Finnie...
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27 Jan 03 - £6 million and a level playing field for Scotland’s social economy

27/01/2003 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations has today welcomed the Scottish Executive’s launch of the social economy review report and a £6 million development package. The report entitled ‘A review of the Scottish Executive’s policies to promote the social...
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24 Jan 03 - Jowell sells out charities over millennium dome mark two

24/01/2003 00:00:00

The government last night displayed further evidence of just how out of touch it is over the National Lottery. By agreeing to split the costs of the staging of a successful London bid for the 2012 Olympic Games Tessa Jowell, culture secretary, has fanned the flames of debate on just how Lottery...
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17 Jan 03 - Rural communities urged to bid for local research cash

17/01/2003 00:00:00

Communities throughout Rural Scotland are being urged to sign up for an innovative Action Research initiative recently launched by the Scottish Executive. The Rural Voices: Action Research competition is intended to help rural communities to be directly involved in consulting local people members...
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15 Jan 03 - Charity funding jeopardised by merger threat

15/01/2003 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations is calling on The Scottish Executive to start working towards the creation of a single Lottery distributor in Scotland. SCVO’s policy paper ‘The National Lottery in Scotland – the future’, published today, makes the case for...
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16 Dec 02 - Charity law: we still need legislation

16/12/2002 00:00:00

Responding to this afternoon’s announcement on Charity Regulation in Scotland by Justice Minister Jim Wallace, SCVO’s associate director, Stephen Maxwell said: “SCVO has campaigned for ten years for a coherent regulatory framework for the voluntary sector. By accepting the case...
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10 Dec 02 - Equality agenda drawn up through art

10/12/2002 00:00:00

A fresh approach to reporting on conferences was on display in Inverness last week where proceedings were followed by illustrator Graham Ogilvie. The ‘Equality – what’s that?’ conference, held last Friday in Inverness, to launch the Highlands and Islands Equality Forum,...
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09 Dec 02 - Support on employment law for Scottish charities

09/12/2002 00:00:00

Scotland’s voluntary sector is set to benefit from an initiative set up to encourage good employment practice and prevent potentially costly employment tribunals. The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations and the Scottish Trade Union Congress have been working together, providing a...
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05 Dec 02 - Scottish Christmas sparkle for Taiwan

05/12/2002 00:00:00

Sending season’s greetings in Taiwan this year will support one of Scotland’s most important charities. The Taiwan office of Scottish Development International, the agency that promotes Scotland as a place for overseas business investment, has ordered their Christmas cards from the...
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05 Dec 02 - Equality - what's that?

05/12/2002 00:00:00

An innovative partnership to tackle inequality in the Highlands and Islands will be launched tomorrow in Inverness. ‘Equality – what’s that?’ is the first conference of the Highlands and Islands Equality Forum - a European Social Fund project that covers all equal...
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29 Nov 02 - Official opening of Mansfield Traquair Centre

29/11/2002 00:00:00

His Royal Highness The Prince Charles, Duke of Rothesay today officially opened Edinburgh’s newest cultural and business venue. The Mansfield Traquair Centre, formerly the Catholic Apostolic Church or Mansfield Place Church, has been restored to its full glory and now includes purpose...
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22 Sep 02 - Future parliament shown the road ahead

22/09/2002 00:00:00

The voluntary sector will today launch its vision of a modern Scotland ahead of next May’s Scottish parliamentary elections. A 12-page manifesto details the extent to which Scottish life is currently underpinned by the third sector and outlines its future relationship with parliament....
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22 Sep 02 - Scotland’s voluntary sector to get management makeover

22/09/2002 00:00:00

A new free online service is set to change the way Scottish charities and voluntary organisations work. The Voluntary Management Essentials website has been designed to help the 100,000 paid staff and 300,000 volunteers in Scotland’s 50,000 voluntary organisations with advice on employment...
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21 Sep 02 - Young Scots invited to join the giving nation

21/09/2002 00:00:00

A new initiative to encourage Scotland’s young people to develop the habit of charity was launched today in Edinburgh. Giving Nation, backed by The Giving Campaign – a national initiative to encourage a stronger culture of giving in the UK – and the Scottish Council for...
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20 Aug 02 - Fundraise for free with WORKWITHUS.ORG

20/08/2002 00:00:00

Workwithus.org is providing all of Scotland’s 44,000 charities and voluntary organisations with an opportunity to boost their fundraising efforts via the internet. Charities are already receiving online donations from supporters as every charity in Scotland now has its very own donations...
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24 Jul 02 - Executive reminded money talks louder than words

24/07/2002 00:00:00

The Scottish Executive is being urged to put its money where its mouth is on its relationship with the voluntary sector with a substantial allocation of funds from the Chancellor’s windfall for public services. While the sector south of the border has been celebrating following last...
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11 May 02 - Executive told it must use voluntary sector to improve public services

11/05/2002 00:00:00

Voluntary organisations must be allowed to play a much greater role in delivering public services to millions of Scots. The demand came from Professor Joan Stringer, CBE, Convener of the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations, during a major conference held in Glasgow today (Thursday April...
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09 May 02 - Modern scotland still stuck with 400-year-old law

09/05/2002 00:00:00

Scotland’s parliament today missed a vital opportunity to push for reform of charity law and in so doing has failed 44,000 charities and voluntary organisations. During this morning’s debate on the Social Justice Committee’s report at the parliament, issues ranging from finance,...
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07 Mar 02 - New legal framework would root out bad charities

07/03/2002 00:00:00

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) has called for rapid progress towards the reform of charity law, following concerns raised about charities independence in the case of the Third Age charity in Glenrothes. SCVO chief executive Martin Sime said: “The Scottish Executive...
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13 Feb 02 - Executive running in right direction over water

13/02/2002 00:00:00

The Scottish Executive’s latest plan to reduce the impact of the removal of charitable water reliefs still needs work, says the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO). The Executive has just unveiled a package of measures to help charities affected by the loss of reliefs, ahead...
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09 Jan 02 - Scotlands Third Sector now major economic player_2

09/01/2002 00:00:00

Scotland’s voluntary sector now has an income of over £2bn and the social economy represents just over three per cent of Scotland’s GDP. The assets of the sector are estimated to amount to £6.8bn and its workforce is currently estimated to be 100,000 people in the equivalent...
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