Support for the VCSE sector

The HIVE Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise Team supports, connects and equips the sector in Portsmouth to ensure a strong, diverse and vibrant group of organisations are ready to meet the needs of individuals and the community in Portsmouth.

We are uniquely placed to provide an overview of the VCSE Sector in Portsmouth and are able to assist in identifying gaps in service and networking with groups and organisations to fill this gap. As a team we can advocate on behalf of the sector and bring groups and organisations together to develop relationships and partnerships.

My experience with the team has been fantastic. Every step of the way I have felt like I've been part of a team. Setting up on your own is nerve wracking but working with HIVE Portsmouth has meant that I haven't felt alone.

Charla Grant, The Grateful Arts Club

Setting up your organisation

Do you have a great idea to help others, make your community a better place or improve the environment? If you're a new or existing Social Enterprise, Voluntary and Community Enterprise looking for advice or support we can help!

Whether you're hoping to set up as a Social Enterprise, a Community Interest Company, Constituted Community Group, Charitable Incorporated Organisation or Cooperative and Community Benefit Society, our team will be able to guide you through the process.

Funding support available

We can help local organisations in identifying possible funding or grant opportunities that enable them to carry on with their great work to support residents.

Do you have a project or a need for extra funding? Would you like support with bid writing or feedback on your applications? Our dedicated sector support team can help you identify suitable funding opportunities and give you hints and tips to develop your proposal.

Find out more

Policies and procedures

Policies and procedures are important. Funders will request them and some of them - such as those relating to health and safety - are a legal requirement. They need to be regularly reviewed and updated.

They also provide a framework that underpins the ethics and philosophy of your group or organisation, allowing you to set your expectations and shape your values and mission. They set standards of behaviour, conduct and performance for employees and volunteers, and can be an invaluable point of reference.

Connect with the sector

As part of the VCSE sector in Portsmouth, you're part of an an incredible and supportive community. We can help keep you connected. Use our directory and events calendar to promote your organisation, and attend our networking events.

Connect now

Resources

Whether you're looking for a space to work from, help with your banking options, trustees and governance, or advice specific to your organisation, we will try to help. Our resources page contains a number of helpful links which could signpost you to support.

Find out more