Community Contacts

• Access English

Access English recognises the need to support people in our local area for whom English is not their first language. It provides practical help and teaching along with an opportunity for a friendly chat and share experiences. For more information contact Rugeley Community Centre on 01889 579341 or click here to visit the website

• Achieving Goalz and Dreams

Achieving Goalz and Dreams Limited offer specialist health services regarding nutritional advice and the creation of tailored health and well being programmes designed for all ages covering individuals from young children, youths, adults and the elderly and also families, schools, youth services and community groups. Our programmes help you to achieve all the goalz as you go through life. We aim to combine physical activity and healthy eating to establish a healthier lifestyle by introducing fun and interactive programmes that establish and reinforce healthy habits not just for now, but for life! Our programmes deal with obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol,healthy cooking and physical activity. To find out more contact 07525 169440, or email contact@achieving-goalz-and-dreams.co.uk or click here to visit the website

• Action on Hearing Loss

Action on Hearing Loss is the new name for the RNID. They provide support to people and can help people find services to meet their needs. They can also provide information about the Personal Independence Payment, Communication Support, Access to Work, Hearing Aid Support as well as providing Factsheets and leaflets. For more information click here One of the projects run by Action on Hearing Loss is the Aged Veterans Project which provides support to armed forces veterans born before 1 January 1950. This includes one-to-one support, talks, presentations, information stands, support for family members and carers, and also supporting community groups to become more inclusive of veterans with hearing loss. For infomation contact Debbie Hill Deborah.Hill@hearingloss.org.uk

• Alzheimer's Society

Alzheimer's Society is the UK's leading support and research charity for people with dementia, their families and carers. To find out about local services including a Dementia Advisor Clinic and a Dementia Advisor Service contact 01543 573936 or email Staffordshire@alzheimers.org.uk

• AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty)

Cannock Chase was designated as an AONB in 1958 because of its beautiful landscape, its wildlife and its history. Cannock Chase is the largest surviving area of lowland heathland in the Midlands . Lowland heath is an internationally scarce and threatened wildlife habitat. The AONB also has extensive areas of forest and woodland along with areas of designed parkland, sand and gravel quarrying and mixed agriculture. For more information contact 01785 619185, email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk or click here to visit the website

• Age UK South Staffordshire

If you would like to find out about day opportunities, the Eat Well project, care and help at home, a befriending service, intergenerational projects or fun exercise classes and social trips, please call South Staffordshire Age UK 01785 788 499 www.ageuk.org.uk/southstaffs

• Arch

A domestic violence service for male victims. Research shows that 1 in 6 men experience domestic abuse. If you are experiencing domestic abuse, you are not alone; you have nothing to be ashamed of. You don't have to deal with it by yourself. If you want to talk to someone about domestic abuse you can call 01782 683702 or alternatively contact the DV outreach team on 01782 683702. The DV helpline is 01782 205500 dvservices@archnorthstaffs.org.uk

• ASIST

Asist provides specialist independent advocacy support focused on one-to-one, issue based advocacy services for people with learning disabilities, physical disabilities and/ or mental health issues. Contact 01785 246709, email enquiries@asist.co.uk or click here to visit the website

• Beat the Cold

Beat the Cold aims to deliver a service that will reduce the ill health, deaths and misery suffered by vulnerable households because of fuel poverty. They aim to be an efficient and flexible organisation, trusted by the people they serve and by professional partners. They will share expertise in finding and supporting those households who need help but are 'hard to reach. For Staffordshire call 080 389 2258. To find out more click here

• CACH - Chase Against Crimes of Hate

An organisation set up to tackle hate crime, hate incidents and bullying on a discriminatory basis (e.g. race, faith, disability, sexual orientation, age, gender identity, subculture etc) This can include online or cyber bullying. CACH can offer:1:1 support for people who have experienced or are experiencing any of these issues – this can take the form of providing information about their options, advocating on their behalves with other organisations, providing a listening service etc. CACH can provide training and awareness sessions to schools, youth clubs, community groups or professionals around hate crime and bullying

Contacts: Co-ordinator Anna McLauchlan, 07971497988, selfreport@cachpartnership.org.uk, www.cachpartnership.org.uk, www.facebook.com/CACHPartnership, www.twitter.com/CACHPartnership

• Cannock Chase Shed

A community group for anyone who enjoys using a workshop to repair items or create projects. Members can use the workshop for their own projects, or work with others on projects for community/heritage groups. Help will be on hand on how to use equipment or advice on how to make or repair most items.

For more information call 01543 877666, email enquiries@cannockchaseshed.org.uk or visit http://www.cannockchaseshed.org.uk/ 

• Cannock Chase U3A

Cannock Chase U3A is a voluntary, non-profit community organisation in the Cannock area which promotes "lifelong learning" for fun and fulfilment of those folk who have retired or semi-retired. As well as monthly speaker meetings and social events, we run 15 interest groups from Tai Chi, through French, Italian, Painting and Drawng and Local History to Science & Technology, as well as social events and outings. If interested in making new friends with likeminded interests then contact cannockchaseu3a@gmail.com or click here to visit the website or call 01543 278303 

• Cannock Community Fire Station

Cannock Community Fire Station have a range of facilities available for community use including: Meeting room which can comfortably accommodate up to 30 people and has a ceiling mounted data projector and a plug in facility for your own laptop, Guest access to wireless internet can be pre-arranged, Refreshment making facilities in a separate kitchen area including water boiler, cups & saucers etc, Male, female and accessible toilets with separate baby changing/prayer room, Large break-out seating area with easy chairs and cafe style tables, Small well equipped gym available for use by partners for guided activity by their own qualified instructor.

We want to encourage a wide variety of groups from the community to use these facilities for their activities. While you're using the room we'd like to take the opportunity to talk to your group about safety - please contact us to make an appointment. For more information please telephone the switchboard on 08451 221155 and your enquiry will be passed to the appropriate department or email can.enquiries@staffordshirefire.gov.uk

• Cannock Food Bank

Cannock foodbank provides a minimum of 3 days food and support for local people in crisis. For more information and to find out the opening times click here or call 01543 422394 or email info@cannockdistrict.foodbank.org.uk

• Cannock Lions

Founded in 2010, Cannock Lions Club is part of Lions Clubs International, the largest service club organisation in the world. 1.4 million members perform valuable service in 210 countries and geographic areas around the globe. Lions are friends, family and neighbours who share a core belief that community is what we make it. Cannock Lions is a community service organisation made up of local people who want to make a difference. Because we are local, we can serve the unique needs of the communities where we live. Because we are global we can address challenges that go beyond borders. For more information call 0845 8334967 or email cannocklionsclub@hotmail.com or click here to view the website

• Carers Association South Staffordshire (CASS)

CASS supports unpaid carers of any age in southern Staffordshire, who are looking after a friend or relative, who because of disability, illness or the effects of old age, cannot manage at home without help. CASS is a registered charity, which provides confidential advice, information and emotional support and a range of other services to Carers living in the districts of Cannock Chase, East Staffs, Lichfield, South Staffs, Stafford and Tamworth. All services are free of charge. CASS Mission Statement: To ensure carers (and where applicable the cared for) in Staffordshire are recognised, supported and have more control over their own lives. To contact CASS call 01785 606675 or click here

• CaSP Cancer Support Programme

This programme is a partnership between the Beth Johnson Foundation and Macmillan Cancer Support. They are here to provide links to social, emotional and practical support for adults affected by cancer. This programme is for anyone living with or beyond cancer; whether newly diagnosed, in remission or undergoing treatment. They provided one-to-one support to help you explore your needs and identify community services to help you meet your goals. For more information contact 01782 844036 or email macmillan@bjf.org.uk

• CHAIN South Staffordshire  - (Carers Helping All In Need)

CHAIN is a parent/carer suppor group located in Cannock. They are an open service welcoming anyone who has children with special education needs, learning difficulties, mental or physical disabilities, sensory difficulties or additional needs - whatever the need  they strive to support you in what can be a very isolated world. The primary aim is to be needs specific and NOT condition specific. To find out more call 07478 445422  click here or visit   https://www.facebook.com/CHAINSOUTHSTAFFS

• Chase Aqua Rural Enterprise (CARE)

CARE provides holistic day opportunities and meaningful activities in a safe and peaceful countryside setting. A caring, friendly environment where people are welcomed and supported as individuals to develop their own potential, grow in self esteem and improve personal wellbeing. Delivering wellbeing and rural activities skills courses, employability skills training and vocational skills supporting both adults, young people and children. CARE offer fully funded opportunities to adults 19+ and also deliver activity sessions for families with disabled children which are also funded through Aiming High. To find out more visit www.chaseaquaruralenterprise.com 

• Chase Area Pregnancy Centre

 This centre exists to provide help and advice for those who think they may be pregnant, or have recently discovered an unplanned pregnancy. In addition to free pregnancy testing, confidential support is also provided to talk you through your concerns, help you to consider your options and give you complete information on which to base your decision. If you would like to talk to someone or to find out more, please see their website here. Alternatively, call one of the two Head Offices at Heath Hayes (07946 025086) or Rugeley (07941 71045). Chase Area Pregnancy Centre cover the whole Cannock area.

• Chase Chamber of Commerce  

Chase Chamber of Commerce and Industry belongs to its business members who join a variety of benefits. From raising their local profile through networking events to sourcing business information, accessing commercial services or seeking international trade advice and training.

To find out more visit the website http://www.chase-chamber.com/ 

• Child Bereavement UK

Child Bereavement UK supports families and educates professionals when a baby or child of any age dies or is dying, or when a child is facing bereavement. Every year we train almost 7000 professionals, helping them to better understand and meet the needs of grieving families. Child Bereavement UK believes all families should have the support they need to rebuild their lives when a child dies. Our aim is to make sure they do. For more information email enquiries@childbereavementuk.org or click here to visit the website. For support and information call 0800 0288840  

• Citizens Advice

CAB are a charity offering free, confidential, independent and impartial advice on issues such as benefits, debt, housing, consumer, employment and many more. The Citizens Advice service aims to employ people no mattter who they are or what their problem is. Citizens Advice Staffordshire South West serves the residents of Stafford, Cannock, Rugeley and Stone. Contact 03444 111444 to speak to an adviser over the phone or to discuss appointment times (numbers starting 03 cost the same as a local number)

• Community Advice Service

A service to provide local people with help filling in forms in hard copy or online, making phone calls or just general help. The service is based at Avon Business and Leisure Centre, Monday 9:30-2:30, Tuesday 9:30-11:30 and Wednesday 9:30-2:30. For more information contact 01543 468507 or 07954 703831.

• Connect

For male victims of domestic abuse. 24 hour helpline 0870 2700 123

• Counselling Directory

Counselling Directory is a confidential service that encourages those in distress to seek help. The directory contains information on many different types of distress, as well as articles, news and events. To ensure the professionalism of our website, all counsellors have provided us with qualifications and insurance cover or proof of membership with a professional body. To find out more click here

• Crime Stoppers

You can call Crime Stoppers anonymously with information about crime. Call 0800 555111 or click here to find out more.

• Cruse Bereavement Care

Cruse South Staffordshire is part of the national charity Cruse Bereavement Care. They provide advice and, information and support for anyone who has been bereaved (children, young people or adults) whenever and however the death occured. The service is provided by trained, experienced volunteers and is confidential and free. They can be contacted via a Helpline answerphone messaging service on 01543 433479 and a volunteer will return your call. Support is provided by a leaflet information, one to one support or via Bereavement Help Points: informal drop in sessions which are currently run at Pye Green Community Centre, St. John's Community Church in Burntwood and Tesco in Lichfield. Information can be found on the website click here. The bereaved person must contact Cruse as they cannot take referrals.

• Cycle R

The purpose of Cycle-R is fourfold;  *Through the recycling of donated bicycles Cycle-R provide training and work experience to long term unemployed and youth groups. * Cycle-R provide low cost, high quality bicycles to low income families and persons who may need them.* Cycle-R will encourage cycling as a sport in and around Cannock, including the provision and maintenance of facilities for bicycles in and around Cannock. *Cycle-R supports the local ecology by providing recycling facilities for items that would otherwise be scrapped. For more information call 01543 523606 or click here to visit the website

• Friends of Cannock Chase

Formed in 1947 when groups from Cannock, Hednesford, Rugeley, Stafford and Penkridge became concerned about the area. We have ancient oaks in Brocton Coppice and our heathland is the largest tract of this lowland heath in the Midlands. We have regular walks that are open to everyone walking different areas of the Chase. These walks occasionally have an informal educational theme where we explain the rich and diverse history of the Chase as well as appreciating its beauty. In addition to our walks and events, in the Autumn and Winter we undertake heathland management work and in the summer litter picks. Contact via   http://friendsofcannockchase.btck.co.uk/

• Friends of Etchinghill

 Our Aims are:* To Work and communicate with all relevant bodies to keep the hill and playing field area clean and tidy * To protect against vandalism* To work in conjunction with the trustees to manage the hill in a manner that will control the invasive growth of trees, plants and shrubs and to keep the bridleways and pathways accessible *To promote the areas history and wildlife *To encourage people to use and appreciate the area * To seek funding and support *To help bring our community together to  “Love where you Live”. The Friends of Etchinghill regularly organise work parties to keep Etchinghill clean and tidy. All are welcome to join the Friends of Etchinghill, young and old. To find out more call 07792814607 or click here to visit the website

• Friends of Hednesford Park

We are a passionate group of volunteers who supported Cannock Chase District Council to achieve the Heritage Lottery Funding. Hednesford Park belongs to our Community and it is important that you support Cannock Chase District Council to protect it by supporting our events, respecting the environment and having ‘your say’ about facilities and services that are provided. To find out more visit the website by clicking here

• Friends of Cannock Stadium Park

We are a group of dedicated and passionate volunteers dedicated to keeping the Cannock Stadium Park (former grounds of Festival Stadium) which has recently had a £1.3m renovation. We aim to provide a clean, safe and tidy park for the community, families and wildlife who use the park. We are a volunteer led, self funded group providing preservation and enhancement to the 10.12 hectare parkland enabling the local community, including those isolated, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. To find out more about our organisation and the park please visit http://friendsofcannockst.wixsite.com/home 

• Fusion Credit Union

Fusion Credit Union is a savings co-operative whose members support each other through saving and borrowing together. Our aims are to encourage members to save and to provide access to loans at reasonable rates of interest. As a not-for-profit organisation, we’re owned and operated entirely by our members. If we make a profit, we share it between our members (or savers). Membership is open to everyone who lives, works or volunteers in the Lichfield or Cannock Chase area. Membership is just £2 plus a minimum savings deposit of £1. To find out more call 01543 415032 or 07972 656182 or email info@fusioncreditunion.co.uk or click here to visit the website

• Gender Matters

Gender Matters provides a comprehensive programme of practical support, counselling, advice and information for anyone with any questions or problems concerning their gender identity, or whose loved ones are struggling with gender identity issues. Contact 01902 744424, email info@gender-matters.org.uk.

• Healthwatch

Healthwatch Staffordshire is the independent consumer champion for health and social care in your local area, delivered by Engaging Communities Staffordshire. Their job is to argue for the consumer interests of those using health and social care services across the county, and give local people an opportunity to speak out about their concerns and health care priorities. Backed by Healthwatch England, they have statutory powers to Listen, Act, Challenge and Feedback, improving local services and promoting excellence throughout NHS and social care services. For more information click here

• Help a Squaddie

A not for profit organisation based in Rugeley. They aim to provide a transitional service to former members of HM Forces and their dependents. This will be achieved by offering advice, support and training to assist with reintegration back into the civilian community. For more information click here

• Learning Disability Cannock

To provide social and leisure activities for people with learning difficulties living in Cannock and the surrounding area. Our Aims: *To promote the relief of those persons with learning disabilities/special needs in the Cannock Chase and surrounding area. *To undertake any other charitable purposes for the benefit of persons with learning disabilities/special needs in the Cannock Chase and surrounding area. Contact via the website. Click here

• Making Space

A national charity that provides services in the heart of local communities , in the comfort of people's houses and specialist care support services. To find out more click here​

• MASE (Monthly Alzheimers Support Evening)

MASE brings together people with Alzheimer’s/Dementia, their families and Carers and also has health care professionals in attendance. Many people withdraw from social activities when a diagnosis has been made; however at the MASE everyone is fully aware of the illness and Carers are able to network with each other and build up friendships and support each other in times of difficulty. Details of the local groups can be found on the regular activities page. Contact Daphne on 01785 211140 or Elaine on 01785 823110 or click here to visit the website

• MS Society Cannock Branch

There are over 300 MS Society branches run by volunteers working alongside local staff. The services they offer include: * emotional and practical support * financial help * information and events * social events. To contact the Cannock and district branch call 01785 714487 or click here to visit the main website.

• OWL - Online Watch Link

Would you like to be kept informed about crime, suspicious incidents and scams in your local neighbourhood? Anyone can register, and it is completely free. Messages are sent by official police staff via email, phone call, fax or text messages about crimes, scams and suspicious incidents and are targeted to your area only. Register your details at http://www.owl.co.uk/

• Princes Trust

The Princes Trust is a youth charity that helps disadvantaged young people to get their lives on track. It supports 11-30 year olds who are unemployed and those struggling at school and at risk of exclusion. Many of the young people helped by the Trust are in or leaving care, facing issues such as homelessness or mental health problems, or have been in trouble with the law. For more information click here

• Progressive Sports

Progressive Sports is dedicated to giving every child the right to be physically active by working with schools and communities throughout the UK – helping them to access high quality PE and Sport. Our aim is to increase participation, raise aspirations, self-confidence and help children to enjoy being physically active. We have local Dance, Soccer Schools and Gymnastics courses running locally. Tel: 01889 580235, Email: info@progressive-sports.co.uk Web: www.progressive-sports.co.uk/southstaffordshire

• Rally Round Me

Rally Round is a new web based tool that helps individuals to be independent through practical help from family and friends. It provides support with tasks that if left undone could place someone at risk or prevent them from continuing to live independently. It can also be used to help reduce loneliness as family and friends can see if regular visits are taking place. The Rally Round scheme can be seen at http://www.rallyroundme.com/ and a video tour at www.rallyroundme.com/tour  Membership of the scheme is free so please click the link above and find out how you can get started.

• Reach Parliament

Reach is a group advocacy project for adults with a learning disability. Reach Members of Parliament (MPs) speak up for themselves and on behalf of others about rights and issues.
For more information about Reach, please call 01782 747872 or email reach@asist.co.uk. You can also visit the Reach website at http://www.asist.co.uk/.

• Report Loan Sharks

Loan shark lending is a crime. Don't be a victim call 0300 555 2222 for help in the strictest confidence. reportaloanshark@stoploansharks.gov.uk

• Richmond Fellowship

Working towards a society that values everyone with mental health problems -Making recovery reality. Visit the website by clicking here . Cannock 24hr Support Intervention - Brendan House in Cannock is a short term 24 hour Supported Intervention Service. We offer a safe place and sanctuary to people in mental health distress for whom a hospital admission is neither wanted or needed. To find out more call 01543 899465 or email brendan.house@richmondfellowship.org.uk

• Rockspur House

Rockspur is an organisation with a difference, Rockspur is a service for adults with learning difficulties that is led by its members. Rockspur have built their own service from scratch and by making their own decisions. Running their own organisation they have built a totally user led service, where they can provide themselves with the support they really want. Rockspur has enabled a group of adults to find their voices and realise their dreams. "Together we can be whatever we want to be, together we can achieve what we want to achieve, and together we are in control and moving forward". For more information contact 01902 844925 or email therockspurhouse@yahoo.co.uk Seasons is an exciting new project for people with learning disabilities who have a genuine interest in the performing arts. For more information contact Sue Baldwing from Seasons c/o Rockspur House on 01902 844925. To find out more click here

• Royal British Legion

The Royal British Legion is the UK's leading Armed Forces charity and one of its largest membership organisations. Members get together through the network of branches and clubs all over the country and overseas to participate in social, fundraising and welfare activities. To find out more about the RBL click here to visit the website

Cannock Branch communications should be made to britishlegioncannock@yahoo.co.uk

Rugeley Branch communications should be made to rugeleyrbl@gmail.com

• Rugeley Community Centre

Rugeley Community Centre is centrally located in Rugeley and provides an important resource for the communities of Rugeley and Brereton. Already functioning as the base for the Rugeley Day Service operated by Voyage Care, the Centre has now also become the base for Rugeley Foodbank, the Chase Area Pregnancy Centre and Rugeley Community Church. For more information call 01889 579341 or click here to visit the website

• Rugeley Foodbank

Rugeley foodbank provides a minimum of 3 days food and support for local people in crisis. To find out more call 07528 447504, email info@rugeley.foodbank.org.uk or click here to visit the website. Opening Times Tuesdays 2-4pm and Fridays 2-4pm at Rugeley Community Centre, Burnthill Lane, Rugeley, WS15 2HX

• Rugeley PHAB

PHAB is a national charity encouraging the integration of people with and without disabilities to come together on equal terms and achieve full integration within the wider community. One way it does this is through a nationwide network of Phab clubs.

Rugeley Phab welcomes all ages from 16 upwards. It organises outings and activities for local and able bodies people as well as group holidays and weekends away. It provides welcome respite for the regular Carers of our disabled members. Everyone is treated equally. To find out more call Margaret Bullock on 01543 276271 or David Thompson on 01283 841093. Email mbullock@talktalk.net or david.thompson.1315@gmail.com 

• Rugeley Phoenix Activities Club

A thriving organisation with over 500 members attending a comprehensive range of physical, artistic and social activities. The mostly weekly for our activities allows people to meet and make friends whilst enjoying a favourite pastime. What better way is there to develop often lasting friendships and avoid being socially isolated. A variety of activities are on offer. To find out more click here

• SEND IASS- Staffordshire Family Partnership

Staffordshire SENDIASS is the new name for SEND Family Partnership. We support people (0-25) with special educational needs and disabilities. We also provide support and training for their parents and carers. The new name includes Information, Advice and Support Service. For more information visit http://www.staffs-iass.org/home.aspx or call 01785 356921 or email sfps@staffordshire.gov.uk

• South Staffordshire Network for Mental Health

South Staffordshire Network for Mental Health is an independent charity promoting and developing mental health services from the perspective of people who have an experience of mental illness throughout the six districts and borough of South Staffordshire. To find out more, click here

• SSAFA Staffordshire Branch

We are the longest serving national tri-service military charity. For 130 years we have provided lifelong support to those who are serving or have ever served in our Armed Forces. We are continually updating what we do to ensure we meet the changing needs of servicemen and women, veterans and their families. SSAFA works in partnership with other military charities and specialist organisations to ensure that those who turn to us for help get the support they need.​​ We put Armed Forces families at the heart of everything we do. We want our Armed Forces (both Regular and Reserves), veterans and their families to know they can depend on SSAFA for support now and for the rest of their lives. Our values mean we are committed, practical and understanding.

For more information please contact: SSAFA Staffordshire, The Hub, 17 Eastgate Street, Stafford, ST16 2LZ, Telephone - 01785 212680 Monday to Friday 10:00 to 13:00, answer machine outside these hours. E-mail - staffordshire@ssafa.org.uk  Website - http://www.ssafa.org.uk/

• Staffordshire Fire Service - Home Fire Risk Check

All homes in Staffordshire are eligible for a FREE home fire risk check. This involves a Fire Fighter or Service Technician visiting your home to give fire safety advice, discuss escape routes and fit free life saving equipment such as smoke alarms and fire guards. Would you benefit from having a visit from the Fire Service, do you know a friend or maybe an elderly neighbour who needs this support.Home fire risk checks save lives. Visit www.staffordshirefire.gov.uk to find out more about how you can arrange a home check.

To find out more about your local fire service and getting involved, follow this link to their website.

• Stafford and Cannock League of Hospital Friends

We raise funds in a variey of ways, with the main sources of income from our busy and friendly coffee bars situated at the heart of the hospitals in Stafford and Cannock. They also provide supporting housing for those with enduring mental illness. To find out more about their volunteer services call 01785 250625 or email enquiries@sclohf.co.uk click here to visit the website

• Staffordshire Buddies

Staffordshire Buddies is the HIV and Sexual Health Charity for Stoke and Staffordshire. The mission of the Charity is to reduce the impact of HIV through providing support, information, advocacy and advice to those living with, or affected by, the virus, and by undertaking health promotion support to communities at risk. For more information call (01782) 201251 or email: ask@staffordshirebuddies.co.uk

Visit http://www.staffordshirebuddies.co.uk/

• Staffordshire Connects

Staffordshire Connects is an online directory of local care, support and wellbeing services, activities and events across Staffordshire aimed at the whole family. Launched by Staffordshire County Council the Staffordshire Marketplace makes it easier for people to find and access support and wellbeing services from hundreds of organisations all in one place. To find out more click here

• Staffordshire Council for Voluntary Services (SCVYS)

SCVYS works with youth groups to help them develop and build their capacity. SCVYS is a membership group and membership gives access to a development worker who can offer support with starting up and running groups across the county. The development officer can offer: *Help and support  *Assist with writing a constitution, policies and/or health and safety risk assesments  *Help with developing good practice  *Help to develop a programme of activities to run within your group  *Help to access funding opportunities

SCVYS offer the following training opportunities: *Health and Safety (risk assessment)  *Managing Challenging Behaviour  *Volunteering Programme  *Safeguarding/Child Protecion  *Training for Young People (Community Activity Leader)  *Food Hygiene  *First Aid.

SCVYS are a registered body with DBS and offer free DBS checks for volunteers of membership groups. Funding is also available for new youth groups starting up in the Staffordshire area. Each newly formed youth group that comes into SCVYS Associate Membership can apply for up to £300 to help with initial start up costs of their organisation. The grant can be used for insurance, equipment, training, resources and activities for the youth group but cannot be used for covering rental costs of your organisation.

For more information please click here or contact the development worker for Cannock and Lichfield, Jane Reynolds on 01785 240378 or email jane@staffscvys.org.uk

• Staffordshire Mental Health Helpline

The Staffordshire Mental Health Helpline is a free and confidential helpline for people who have concerns about their mental health or that of someone they know. The helpline is open 365 days a year 7pm - 2am weekdays and 2pm - 2am weekends. The number is 0808 800 2234.

• Staffordshire Police

Please visit the website to find out about engagement opportunities with your local Police and to find out about crime in your local area. Click here for the website  Find out how Staffordshire Police are working to keep our community safe and reassured.  The non-emergency contact is 101. For emergencies contact 999.

• Staffordshire Umbrella Network (SUN)

SUN is a networking group of parents and carers of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities, voluntary groups and agencies. The network meets up once a term in 5 different locations around Staffordshire to share information,tips and support and to provide a forum for consultation. The network also invites speakers on areas of interest to parents and carers. It is coordinated by SEND Family Partnership (Information, Advice and Support) Service, which is funded by Staffordshire County Council. It operates independently as a confidential service for parents and carers of children and young people (0-25) with special education needs and disabilities. If you would like to attend any of the Cannock SUN meetings or would like to go onto the SUN email distribution list please email sun@staffordshire.gov.uk or ring 01785 356921. SUN is also on Facebook.

• Staffordshire Victim Gateway

Staffordshire Victim Gateway is a free and confidential service that provides information, advice or practical and emotional support, to all victims of crime in Staffordshire, even if you haven't reported the crime to the police. We understand that being a victim of crime can be a difficult and often distressing experience that can leave you feeling angry, afraid or just unsure of what to do next. We want to help you cope with your experience of becoming a victim of crime and to recover from any harm caused to you as a result, supporting you to take back control of your life. Call 0330 0881 339 Monday to Thursday 9:30am-7:30pm, Friday 9:30am-4:30pm and Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays 10am-3pm or email help@staffsvictimsgateway.org.uk or visit http://staffsvictimsgateway.org.uk/ 

• Staffordshire Wildlife Trust

Staffordshire Wildlife Trust has been working to protect the wildlife and wild places where you live for over 40 years. The Mission: To protect and enhance the wildlife and wild places of Staffordshire and to promote understanding, enjoyment and involvement in the natural world. Founded in 1969, Staffordshire Wildlife Trust is the county's leading nature conservation charity. We have around 50 members of staff, who are guided by a board of trustees. The Trust's main offices are at The Wolseley Centre, in Wolseley Bridge, near Rugeley, which is also a popular visitor centre. We have another visitor centre in Stoke-on-Trent, The Westport Lake Visitor Centre. To find out more call 01889 880100 or email info@staffs-wildlife.org.uk or click here to visit the website

• Staffordshire Women's Aid

For general enquiries and to find out more about Women's Aid see their website (http://www.womensaid.org.uk/) or email: helpline@womensaid.org.uk

Telephone 24 hour National Domestic Violence helpline run in partnership between Women's Aid and Refuge. Call 0870 2700 123. Please be aware that emails cannot be responded to by telephone as safety may be compromised. If you wish to speak to somebody please call the number above.

• Stroke Association - Cannock and S.W. Staffs Family and Carer Support

This services offers:

• Life after stroke support
• Hospital and home visits
• Leaflets and factsheets
• Information about Life after Stroke grants and benefits
• Help with returning to work
• Assistance with accessing local leisure and social activities
• Support for carers
• Links to other organisations and networks

Based at Cannock Hospital, for more information contact Lorna Wood on 01543 576408 or 07951 036603 or email lorna.wood@stroke.org.uk

• Support Staffordshire

Support Staffordshire is an independent voice for the community and voluntary sector helping organisations with: *Governance and development *Funding *Volunteering *Training

They develop close associations with key people and oganisations within the country to develop and promote projects in key areas for the benefit of the community. Areas of involvement include: *Health & Wellbeing *European Funding *Enterprise & Skills *Safer Communities *Rural & Environment *Children, Young People & Families *Culture & Heritage

For more information contact 0300 777 1207 or email info@supportstaffordshire.org.uk or click here

• Sure Start Children's Centres

Sure Start Children’s Centres provide activities, services, information and advice to all families with children under the age of 5. In the district there are 3 centres: Cannock, Western Springs and Norton Canes. To find out about their regular activities please refer to the regular community events page. The Children’s Centres work in partnership with South Staffordshire College, the Library service and other training providers to offer courses to meet the needs of the family.

Tel: 01543 469894, Web www.staffordshire.gov.uk/childrenscentres

• The Carers Hub                             

The Carers Hub is a single point of contact for carers and their families in Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent. They are here to improve the lives of all ages through support, advice, information and training. The hub exists to ensure that all carers are aware of and have access to a wide range of support services designed to ease their caring responsibilities and enjoy what life has to offer outside these. If you provide regular care to a friend, family member or neighbour in Stoke-on-Trent or Staffordshire you may be eligible to access a wide range of support services to help you in your caring responsibilities as well as your life outside. Call 0333 1231937 to register your details or click here to visit the website 

• The Good Life

To discover new fun ways to exercise, eat healthily and enjoy family time, visit 'The Good Life'. You can also read more about the Cannock Chase 'Route to Health'.

• The Museum of Cannock Chase

The Museum of Cannock Chase is a great day out for the whole family, whether you are interested in local coal mining, want a hands-on experience of the history of toys or fancy reminiscing about Granny's front room, we've got something for everyone. Our local history gallery tells the story of the area, and our temporary exhibitions programme and year round programme of events means there is always something new to see and do. We are open all year round, except for two weeks at Christmas and New Year. General admission is free, but charges apply for some services an activities. To find out more click here or call 01543 877666

• VAST

VAST is a registered charity providing services and support to voluntary organisations, community groups, charities and social enterprises in Staffordshire. VAST offer a range of free services, these include: Volunteering Services – supporting people looking to volunteer and local organisations to find volunteers for their projects, Support Services – supporting local voluntary organisations with funding and organisation development. For more information please visit www.vast.org.uk or call 0300 3038606

• WEA - the Workers' Educational Association

The WEA has been well-established in Rugeley providing courses in the Cannock Chase area for many years. We bring education to where people live and work and to places where they feel comfortable learning. Our courses can offer a life changing educational journey, developing and encouraging skills that are useful in different aspects of people’s lives and can be a stepping stone into volunteering, paid employment or further education. We have close links with local organisations and community groups such as Richmond Fellowship, Job Centre Plus, Voyage Day Services, Chase Emotional, and Children’s Centres to name a few. For more information contact Chris on 01889 578817 or email rugeleycentre@wea.org.uk click here to visit the website

• Well Active

Activities for people in Cannock Chase have been tried and tested and rated by people with physical and learning disabilities. The resulting reports, videos and ratings can be viewed on the website to help others with disabilities to get active and involved in their community. To view the website click here