Who We Are & What We Do
Ashfield Voluntary Action is a registered charity which serves the Ashfield District of Nottinghamshire.
Ashfield Voluntary Action – Mission Statement
Our mission is to support a thriving, independent voluntary and community sector across Ashfield District through partnership working and community development. We empower communities to become the architects of their own future by supporting community-led action and working closely with local residents, funding bodies, and partner organisations. We challenge and work to eradicate health inequalities, poverty, distress, and sickness by collaborating directly with community and voluntary organisations to deliver services and support initiatives that improve wellbeing. We are committed to challenging all forms of oppression and inequality. We promote and develop volunteering opportunities within Ashfield Voluntary Action and across the wider voluntary and community sector through training, guidance, and advice. We provide governance support, training, and practical assistance to new and existing community groups, charities, and Community Interest Companies. We achieve this by organising events, offering direct support to communities, and helping groups develop services that respond to local needs.
Ashfield Voluntary Action – Core Values
Community Empowerment We believe communities are strongest when people are empowered to shape their own future. We support individuals and groups to lead positive change within their communities.
Equality and Inclusion We are committed to challenging discrimination, oppression, and inequality. We promote fairness, respect diversity, and ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate and be heard.
Partnership and Collaboration We work in partnership with communities, voluntary organisations, public services, and funding bodies to achieve shared goals and deliver meaningful impact.
Integrity and Accountability We act with honesty, transparency, and responsibility in all that we do. We are accountable to the communities we serve and the partners we work with.
Support and Development We are dedicated to strengthening the voluntary and community sector by providing guidance, training, governance support, and resources that help organisations grow and succeed.
Volunteering and Civic Participation We value the vital role of volunteers and encourage active participation by creating opportunities for people to contribute their skills, time, and experience to their communities.
Compassion and Social Justice We are committed to addressing poverty, health inequalities, and social disadvantage by supporting initiatives that improve wellbeing and promote fairness.
Our MIssion Statement may be downloaded HERE.
The charity has been operating in the area since 2001, initially under the name Ashfield Links Forum and more recently as Ashfield Voluntary Action (AVA). The organisation provides support to other voluntary sector groups throughout the District and also supports individuals and families through a range of targeted projects and social groups.
This diagram by the National Association for Voluntary and Community Action (NAVCA) gives a good flavour of the work we do and our role in the community.
