Empowering Devon’s Communities
Devon Community Learning (DCL), managed by Devon Communities Together, has launched an exciting new training programme designed to strengthen organisations, charities and community groups across Devon. With many local groups facing increasing challenges in securing funding, managing resources and ensuring long-term sustainability, these training sessions offer essential skills and knowledge to help them thrive in a challenging environment.
From capital fundraising and business planning to neighbourhood development and social impact measurement, these courses will equip participants with the tools they need to build stronger, more resilient organisations that can continue to support their communities effectively.
Meeting the needs of Devon’s communities
Working in the community sector has never been more demanding. Many smaller charities and voluntary organisations are struggling to build capacity, access funding and demonstrate their impact. Devon Communities Together has listened to the needs of local groups and designed this training programme to address key challenges, ensuring that organisations have the knowledge, resources, and confidence to navigate today’s complex landscape.
Why this training is essential:
- Boost sustainability – Learn how to secure funding, plan strategically and manage community assets effectively.
- Develop new skills – Gain knowledge in governance, business planning and impact measurement.
- Increase confidence – Equip leaders, trustees and volunteers with the tools they need to make informed decisions.
- Enhance collaboration – Build connections with other community organisations and learn from shared experiences.
- Flexible and accessible – Online and in-person options to fit around busy schedules.
Each session is delivered in small group settings, either online or in person, to allow for a fully interactive and hands-on learning experience. Attendees will have the chance to ask questions, engage in discussions and apply what they’ve learned to real-world scenarios.
The courses are led by a team of experienced and dedicated professionals from within Devon Communities Together who have spent decades working in the sector. Their practical insights, real-life examples and guidance will help participants implement what they’ve learned effectively.
A tailored training programme designed to make a difference
Natalie Campbell, Funding Development Manager at DCT has put together this new training programme: “The DCL training programme is a fantastic offer from Devon Communities Together, which I’m very excited to launch! Through continuous listening within our wider project work, we have tailored the programme to meet the needs of Devon’s communities, to support them to do what they do best and make a difference.”
Community groups and organisations across Devon are encouraged to take advantage of this unique opportunity to gain valuable skills, build capacity and secure a stronger future for their projects and initiatives.
Courses will take place both online and in person at Devon Communities Together offices in Exeter, with a variety of training dates available:
🌳 Asset-Based Community Development – Harness local strengths to drive change
🏘 An Introduction to Neighbourhood Development Plans – Shape your local area’s future
📊 Social Value Impact Evidencing – Prove the real difference you make
📚 Theory of Change & Measuring Tools – Plan and evaluate effectively
🤩 Community Led Change Approaches – Engage and collaborate
💻 Business Planning – introduction into creating effective models
💪 Social Enterprises – Make a positive impact
✔ Community Buildings: Governance – Strengthen leadership and operations
💷 Community Buildings: Capital Fundraising – Securing funding for the future
For more information and to discuss any bespoke training needs you have for your organisation, please contact Natalie Campbell on Natalie.campbell@devoncommunities.org.uk or call 01392 248919