Charities Get On-line for ESF Success

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The so-called information super highway can be as confusing as spaghetti junction for those who aren't in the know. Researcher Niall Crowley, based in CCE, has been cutting through the web of jargon to help charities into the fast lane.

As part of a Euro-funded project, Niall compiled an internet directory of over 100 charitable groups throughout the South East with a view to helping them work together. These groups can now use the internet to get a totally up-to-the minute picture of what other organisations might be doing, opening up opportunities for partnerships and minimising overlaps of services. The ESF only accepts bids from large organisations, so banding together will give smaller charities - for example, for the unemployed, deprived ethnic minorities and those with mental health problems - a chance at winning new funds. Created in order to help groups bid for a slice of the lucrative European Social Fund, the directory is available on paper as well as on-line for those without internet access.

Niall's latest project is a comparative 'siesta' - called 'Sharing the Internet to Establish Systems for Training and Access', it aims to revolutionise the way that local charities tap into technology. CCE will be working in partnership with Eastbourne College, who will be offering IT training, and BT, who will act as IT consultants, to develop the project. With 200 computers to distribute , SIESTA will be setting up internet access points, on-line resources and training schemes for charitable groups, helping them to learn how to create more effective publicity and stand a better chance of winning elusive funds. As Niall says, "Many of the groups I work with feel isolated. If the Directory and SIESTA allow some of these groups to communicate and see the bigger picture, they will have been worthwhile."

Anyone who may have useful information on local organisations in East Sussex can contact Niall on ext 4313.