When you want to change the way things are for the better, you need people on board to help you make a difference in your local community.
A good way to start this process is to bring together a number of people who share similar interests and concerns and work through these useful questions together. This may take time to work through but is very important as it helps you plan what you want to do. The questions simply help you put your thoughts into some order.

• What do you want to do?
• What services and / or activities will you provide? Where will it operate? Who will it help? What are your aims (what difference you want to be making)?
• How do you know this is a need?
• How many people need it? Why do they need it? What difference will this make? Look at Useful Statistics.
• How many groups do this already? Have you contacted them? Use our CVA Database to meet with them and work out if your service is really needed. More often than not, it is better to work with an existing group as there is lots of competition for funding. Donors will check who does this already.
• How would your group work?
• What are the advantages in setting up a new group?  What would be different?
• Who will be involved? You need trustees, volunteers, members etc.  What skills or experience do you already have or need to run the activities?
• What resources do you need to deliver services?  How will you get these? Be realistic about the amount of work you will need to carry out in the next few months and longer term to get these e.g. hall hire, office space or other.
• How much will it all cost?  Where will you get funds and who will do the fundraising?  Be specific and realistic about costs.  Look at our Finance Page

Starting a group can be very rewarding, especially as it begins to take shape and develop. It is important to remember, however, that this work involves much time, commitment and patience. Problems will come up. Set backs will happen. Developing a successful group is hard work. Your group can have a positive impact on local communities. Rewards are tremendous. So are the responsibilities. Read Group Support to learn more.

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Email:  cva@cvalive.org.uk

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Please note:  not all of the opinion expressed via this website constitutes the policy or position of CVA. Thank you.