Overview of the session

Finding a suitable partner

Be clear about the project, and what resource you have and need
Ensure there is a need – consult and find evidence
Identify possible partners – Community Connections and Lewisham Local could help. Ensure there are shared aims
Partners may want to fund, but not project management. Determine this before you move forward!
Data, sharing agreements and access to information

Other Considerations

Think about how you’re constituted, do you have the right governance models to apply for some funds and enter into certain partnerships?
Get clear details on the funding, where it will sit – who needs to have the right constitution. Some funders want bigger organisations, some smaller
Ensure relevant insurances and DBS Checks are in place
GDPR (data protection) – who will be holding the data?
Do you have the right insurance? If not do your partners?
Training – can be got for free, or form part of funding bit
Volunteer management – who will be doing this?
Promotion and communications – clear expectations and what can be delivered
Sustainability – is it a time limited project? Does the funding want the project to become sustainable?
Evaluation and impact measurement – how will you do this and who?
Barriers (e.g. digital access of service users)

Finding Participants

Consider a communications plan
Who can help you get word out, agree this and ensure you reach the right groups? e.g. Housing Association’s / ALMOs, Existing community groups, Tenants & Residents Associations, Lewisham Council, Lewisham Local, Raise awareness yourself through social media, events or flyers

Finding Funding

You may have already identified funding. This may be what has empowered you to develop the project, or you may have an idea but no funding. Here are some actions that can help: