Here you will find up to date information relevant to the voluntary and community sector in North Tyneside, including news from local groups and organisations.

If you would like to submit an article to this page, please contact VODA's Information Worker.

North Tyneside Rethink Group

Wednesday 25 August
North Tyneside Rethink Group is a local support group for mental health users and carers who come together, share experiences and help people recover a better quality of life. The group meets every Thursday at 5pm at The Linskill Centre in North Shields. For further information contact Darren on 07540 264515.

Whitley Bay Area Forum

Wednesday 18 August 2010
North Tyneside Council are holding a special meeting of the Whitley Bay Area Forum, which will focus on the Spanish City and the regeneration of Whitley Bay. The event will take place on Tuesday 31 August, 6.30pm at the Whitley Bay Playhouse, and will offer the opportunity to put questions to a team of senior council officers. For more information telephone 0191 643 2828 or visit www.northtyneside.gov.uk

Becoming Visible: British Sign Language Courses

Ever wanted to learn a new language but fed up with the usual? Why not learn British Sign Language? Becoming Visible Training is running a series of courses at Newcsatle Deaf Centre this autumn covering the following levels: Introduction, Foundation Level, Intermediate and Advanced. Courses begin early in September so you must be quick to book your place. Download the prospectus here or telephone 0191 233 9914 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Visit the website for more information. 

Communtiy Alliance Roadshow: 101 Ways to Tell Your Story...

This one-day Community Alliance event is aimed at organisations that wish to tell their story, engage the community and promote their work. It takes place on Wednesday 29 September, 10am to 2pm at the Prioneering Care Partnership, Newton Aycliffe and costs £10 per person (free for members of bassac, Community Matters and DTA). Read more or download a booking form here, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or telephone 01670 518150 for more information.

Call for Applications to LEAF Fund

26 July 2010
The Local Environmental Action Fund (LEAF) is looking for applications of up to £15,000 from voluntary and community organisations that are looking to run projects that address environmental issues through action at a local level. The closing date for applcaitions is 1 August 2010 but applications are assessed on a rolling basis. Read more information and apply here. 

The Big Green Seaside Station Day

26 July 2010
North Tyneside's only Green Festival takes place on Monday 30 August at Tynemouth Metro Station between 11am and 5pm. The event will feature information stalls from organisations including Northumberland Wildlife Trust, Sustrans, and the Energy Saving Trust, plus traders of organic fruit and vegetables, natural body products, renewable energy and eco products.

Third Sector Delivery of Public Services: Seminars

2 July 2010
NESEP (North East Social Enterprise Partnership) is delivering a series of workshops supporting third sector organiasations in delivering public services. There are three titles of workshops, with sessions taking place between July and November at venues across the North East. Workshop titles:

• Understanding the Procurement Process and identifying Opportunities
• Winning Tenders
• Delivering Contracts

View the dates and full details here.

Big Spring Clean 2010

2 July 2010
North Tyneside Council is currently running a Big Spring Clean Campaign. This is an anunal campaign which encourages residents, schools and community groups to get involved and carry out clean ups or litter picks with support from the council. There are three main ways to support this year's campaign:

• voting for your favourite beauty spot
• organising or taking part in a community clean-up event
• schools are invited to organise a clean-up in their grounds or area

Read full information on all of the ways to get involved, or visit www.northtyneside.gov.uk. If you are interested in organising a clean-up event email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or telephone Kathryn Waugh on 0191 643 7276.