Upskilling Devon: new courses for local changemakers

A new training offer has been launched to support Devon’s voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector in the face of growing financial pressures and rising demand.

Devon Community Learning (DCL), the training arm of charity Devon Communities Together, has designed a practical new programme to help charities, community groups and social enterprises across the county build skills, develop strategy, and strengthen their impact.

The programme includes a mix of in-person and online sessions covering everything from writing successful funding bids and creating business plans, to improving governance, measuring social value, and making buildings more sustainable. The offer is open to both emerging grassroots groups and more established organisations.

Natalie Campbell, Funding Development Manager at Devon Communities Together, said, “We’ve listened closely to what charities and community groups are telling us they need right now. Budgets are tight, demand is rising, and staff and volunteers are stretched. This programme is about providing targeted, relevant support that helps organisations to not just survive, but adapt and thrive in challenging times.”

The first session is a two-day Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) workshop, taking place in April at Devon Communities Together’s Exeter offices. Other courses running this spring include sessions on neighbourhood planning, theory of change, and managing community buildings.

All courses are delivered by experienced practitioners with real-world knowledge of the community sector.

To view the full programme and book a place, click here.

Devon Communities Together is an independent charity and the Rural Community Council for Devon, working to support communities across the county through advice, training, and practical solutions.