Welcome to VAST

VAST supports the development of Voluntary and Community Organisations (VCO’s) in Staffordshire and surrounding areas. Since 1920, VAST has provided support and a voice to VCO’s . This work is all the more important in a changing political and economic landscape with the launch of the “Big Society.

Our key aim is to advance and promote the professional development of the Voluntary and Community Sectors (VCS) now known as Big Society. From our dedicated Board of Trustees to our front line team, we have the skills and experience to help VCO's compete and prosper in the 21st Century marketplace.

VAST advises its clients on a wide range of development initiatives and our advocacy will ensure our clients’ voices are heard at a strategic level, locally, regionally and nationally. In addition we offer a range of business support services, practical resources and accredited training.

Starting a new organisation or developing an existing one is never easy. VAST will partner with you to meet the challenges and opportunities of today’s Big Society (VCS).

Our Achievements, April 2010 - April 2011:

Development Support

• 22 New Social Enterprises
• 36 New Jobs
• 51 Jobs Safeguarded
• £4.6m Funding Secured
• 218 Business Development Sessions
• 58 New Groups
• 524 Support Sessions
• 153 Outreach Sessions

Strategic Representation

• 19 Strategic Documents Summarised
• 4 Funding Fairs
• 19 Consultation Events
• 16 Development Workshops
• 24 National Engagement Events
• 44 Consultations
• 61 Strategic Meetings – VCS Voice

Lifestyle Programme

• Over 2,300 Individuals' Health Improved
• 2,334 Engaged in Physical Activities
• 873 Assisted with Weight Loss
• 60 Healthy Cook and Eat Sessions
• 48 Think Well Sessions
• 2,312 Referrals from Local GP’s

Volunteering

• 300 Live Volunteering Opportunities
• 250 Volunteers Recruited and Placed

Training

• 150 Training Sessions
• 670 Individuals Trained