The difference a connection can make
An introduction that brings new volunteers through the door. A funding opportunity that helps a project grow. A conversation that connects an organisation with support it didn’t know was available.
These are some of the practical ways that being connected can make a difference. Across LVET, members have knowledge, experience and opportunities to share. Taking the time to understand each other’s work helps us recognise where those connections could lead. We’ve been taking the time to develop member spotlights as a way of showcasing the work of our members, in the hope, that you’ll see ways you can help or ways other organisations in the network could support you.
Because LVET is its membership:every member brings something valuable, whether that is specialist advice, local knowledge, a willingness to collaborate or an honest account of what has worked.
Knowing each other helps us support each other
When organisations are busy delivering services, supporting communities and keeping things running, making time to connect can feel like another task on an already long list.
Yet knowing what others do—and helping them understand what you do—can open up opportunities that would otherwise be missed. It also means that when a challenge arises, there is someone to ask, an experience to learn from or a useful introduction to make.
We wanted to show you some of the examples where this has worked really well and we can see those connections delivering positive change and results.
The Cyber Resilience Centre’s relationship with LVET is one example. Through introductions, referrals and opportunities to share its work, the Centre has helped more organisations become aware of its fully funded cyber security guidance and toolkits.
As the Centre explains:
“During our time being associated with LVET we have made a lasting and positive relationship with their team.”
Most recently, LVET introduced the Centre to BID Services Lincolnshire to explore cyber security training for staff and volunteers, alongside other fully funded guidance and support.
That introduction creates an opportunity for specialist knowledge to reach people who could benefit from it. It also helps the Centre build relationships with local organisations and understand how its support can be useful.
Sharing information can unlock opportunity
For Green Synergy, staying connected through LVET’s funding bulletins led to a significant opportunity.
After seeing information about The Wildlife Trusts’ Green Community Grants programme, the charity applied and was awarded £20,000. The programme supports not-for-profit groups delivering outdoor nature projects focused on environmental action, nature recovery and climate.
Green Synergy told us:
“We cannot always pick up all of these funding opportunities so having in one collated form is very helpful.”
Behind that simple observation is a familiar challenge. Organisations cannot be everywhere or spot every opportunity. Sharing relevant information helps members make the most of their time and find support for the work they want to do.
An introduction is just the beginning
Connections also create space for relationships to develop in their own way.
LVET introduced Men of Megin to Green Synergy and its CEO. Following a visit to Hillside Garden, the group is now due to take part in a volunteering session on 3rd October, with hopes of returning in the future.
What began as an introduction has become a practical opportunity to support the garden and build an ongoing relationship.
Green Synergy also highlighted Paul’s introduction to the Involving Lincs partnership meetings, which has since led to a range of collaborative activities and further meetings. Each connection creates another chance to exchange ideas, discover shared interests and explore what might be possible together.
Relationships matter over time
The experiences shared by Metheringham Community Swimming Pool offer another perspective on the importance of ongoing support. Since first engaging with LVET in 2022, the organisation has moved from a focus on keeping the pool operational towards greater confidence in funding and planning for the future.
That progress reflects the commitment of the people behind the pool. It also illustrates why staying in touch matters: as an organisation’s needs and ambitions change, the conversations and support around it can develop too.
You can read more in From Fighting for Survival to Changing Lives: The Story of Metheringham Pool.
What could your next connection lead to?
The more we understand about one another, the more opportunities we can recognise and share. That starts with members telling us what they are working on, what they need and what they could offer others.
You might be looking for volunteers, exploring a joint project or trying to reach a different community. You might have expertise another organisation needs, or an experience that could help someone facing a similar challenge.
Stay in touch, join a member conversation and be curious about each other’s work. If you have a challenge, an idea or something to share, let the LVET team know. Your next conversation could make a difference to your organisation—and to someone else’s.
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