Hackney CVS would like to wish all our members, local VCS organisations, our programme delivery partners, our funders and our public sector colleagues a wonderful festive break. It’s been a uniquely challenging year for all the reasons we know, and I think we all need a break!

However, it’s also been a year that has shown the real value of voluntary and community organisations – whether in responding superbly to the challenges of Covid-19 or adapting and changing to the structural racism exposed by the death of George Floyd.

Highlights include:

• The thousands of older people supported through the pandemic by the Connect Hackney Programme and its delivery partners
• The massive investment provided by the CCG and Public Health in grant funding for local VCS organisations through Hackney Giving
• The young leaders at Hackney CVS who have led the way in showing how young people can effect change – see the work of the Account Group for instance
• The neighbourhood conversations we facilitated which have brought together many different organisations and agencies together across all 8 neighbourhoods

What I am sure of is that the Hackney voluntary and community sector is always ready to do all it can to support residents, particularly those who are isolated or struggling. I also know how much we can pride ourselves with the powerful partnerships we enjoy with colleagues in the NHS, Council and other public bodies. It’s about relationships and this makes Hackney a beacon that others often follow.

I want to take this opportunity to also thank the team at Hackney CVS and our trustees who have worked extremely hard to ensure we continue to strive to be our best in all we do.

We are looking to a successful and productive New Year.

Regards,

Jake Ferguson,
Chief Executive Officer
Hackney CVS