Frequently Asked Questions

Registered voluntary, community, faith-based and social enterprise (VCFSE) organisations and unincorporated community groups that are based in and or operate in Barking & Dagenham.

We are looking for VCFSE sector organisations to join our co-operative community to collaborate so we are:

• better connected
• better resourced
• and better able to help local people and organisations thrive.

By sharing what we know – opportunities, issues, and information – no one is left trying to figure things out on their own. We can tackle problems and grab opportunities none of us could take on alone.

When we stand together, we’re seen and heard. We’re more influential with partners and funders because they can see the strength of a united sector working for the borough.

See our membership page for more details on what we’re all about! 

Visit the Membership page for more information. Send in your application first so eligibility can be verified. Once approved, you’ll receive payment details for the annual fee based on your organisation’s turnover. Once signup is complete, we will be in touch for onboarding. 

Yes. Each member organisation nominates a main contact (voting right) and a secondary contact.

The membership fee covers the cost of benefits such as facilitation, training and events. A fee-based model helps ensure the Collective is sustainable and not reliant solely on short-term grants or volunteer goodwill. It also means members are investing in a shared platform that benefits the whole sector. 

Member organisations can join or initiate thematic networks. More networks may be created over time by members to respond to local needs and opportunities.

BD Collective follows a democratic principle of one member, one vote. This means every member organisation has an equal voice in key decisions about how it operates and what it focuses on.

It coordinates collaboration, helps attract funding, supports shared learning and advocacy, and makes it easier for local organisations to work together to meet community needs.

The BDCVS focuses on building the capacity of organisations, for example through development support and advice. BD Collective focuses on connection and collaboration. Both are important. Together, they help the VCFSE sector thrive and better meet the needs of local people.

BD Collective is an independent member-led cooperative that collaborates with the council, NHS, funders and other local or national stakeholders. Its role is to represent and strengthen the VCFSE helping ensure that local partnerships are balanced and effective.

We would love to have a chat with you on opportunities to work together! Email hello@bdcollective.co.uk or fill up our enquiry form on the Contact page to set up a meeting.

In Barking & Dagenham, we have the BD Council for Voluntary Services (CVS) that can help.

The Small Charities Coalition has some great resources here

The Government has a step by step process you can see here

Ask yourself the key questions with help from CAF here

The NCVO (National Council for Voluntary Organisations) has a comprehensive resource here.

Central Government covers the main legal and financial aspects here

See information from the Government for charities here.

See also the National Council for Voluntary Organisations, and The NSPCC.

If you have a safeguarding concern, you should report it. The council process begins here for adults. If you work with children, start here

There are many types of fundraising, so you should pick the ones that are most relevant and achievable for you.

The Institute of Fundraising is a good place to start, as is the Fundraising Fundamentals from CAF.

London Funders provide a comprehensive list of where you can find what funding is available here

If you want to apply for local funds the council has three opportunities which you can see here