Voluntary Organisations Disability Group opens up membership to support smaller organisations
The Voluntary Organisations Disability Group (VODG) has today launched a new initiative that will give free membership for 2020/21 to not-for-profit disability organisations in England with an income of less than £1million.
VODG, an infrastructure body representing more than 100 voluntary sector organisations that work alongside disabled people, has launched the offer as part of its wider response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
The offer from the leading disability infrastructure body aims to help smaller organisations that provide support or advocacy services to disabled people. VODG took the decision given the extraordinary challenges the pandemic presents. It will enable organisations to access VODG’s membership, public affairs, and sector development services.
It follows a series of innovative solutions the organisation has implemented to help voluntary sector disability organisations respond to the COVID-19 pandemic including regular briefings, regular online meetings, comprehensive public affairs representations, and new online communities for VODG members to share support, insight, and resources.
The scheme is open to not-for-profit organisations in England with an income of less than £1million that provide support or advocacy services to disabled people. VODG’s standard subscriptions fees are £250 for organisations with an income of up to £499k and £500 for organisations with an income of £500 - £1million.
Dr Rhidian Hughes, chief executive of VODG, said:
“What the pandemic has shown us is that now, more than ever, the sector’s infrastructure should be creating the conditions for all voluntary disability organisations to have the opportunity to stay connected and to explore greater collaboration. The pandemic is bringing with it huge challenges for organisations involved in supporting disabled people, but there are also opportunities to strengthen the voluntary sector response, both now and into the future.
“At our core, we believe that an ambitious, trusted and vibrant voluntary sector that works together plays a unique role in enabling disabled people of all ages to live the lives they choose. We believe that together, we can make a difference in the lives of disabled people across England.
“We hope that by opening up our membership, VODG and its existing members can support smaller organisations across England, who are doing incredible work to support disabled people in the face of such challenging circumstances.”