Art Take Part

At Art Take Part we know that arts groups value the time they spend creating, singing, dramatising and making beautiful things. We also know that what isn’t always so valued is the behind-the-scenes effort needed to fulfil your artistic aspirations: if you agree with this then a new resource, Running Your Group, could be just what you’ve been waiting for.

Running Your Group is a web-based resource designed to give people all the tools they need to start up, fund, market and manage their group.

Running Your Group provides a number of packages, from a free quick reference tool to in-depth interactive guides. The material is comprehensive, covering everything group leaders need to know, from the latest child protection legislation to promoting their group online.

The service also offers unprecedented access to key decision-makers through a series of live video interviews, as well as having forums for peer-to-peer support.

Running Your Group has been launched by Voluntary Arts – the national development agency for the voluntary and amateur arts sectors – which identified the need for clear, up-to-date and expert information to help group leaders with issues such as securing funding and the recruitment of new members.

Robin Simpson, Voluntary Arts’ Chief Executive explained the aim of the project: ‘We know that there are thousands of people who are passionate about their art or craft, but are perhaps less passionate about the practicalities of running their group. We aim to take away the stress by providing expert advice and step-by-step guides on topics as diverse as equal opportunities and marketing. Running Your Group is a one-stop-shop for immediate expertise on all aspects of running a voluntary group,’ he said.

The service has four levels of subscription. The first level is completely free of charge and includes a range of resources and localised weekly enews. To celebrate the launch of Running Your Group, the first 100 subscribers receive special discounts on the premium subscriptions.

If it’s the personal touch that’s required, then Running Your Group arts consultants Bryony Flanagan, Janie Crone and Phil Nicholls should be the first point of contact for arts and voluntary groups keen to access support. A team of three experienced community consultants, they work across Northern Ireland offering support and guidance designed for busy people and volunteers.  Visit www.runningyourgroup.org to find out more

Coinciding with the launch of Running Your Group, Voluntary Arts Ireland have also launched their own new website with all the latest news, funding opportunities, jobs, training and events throughout Ireland.  See the new website at www.vaireland.org