Welcome to our Christmas edition of Durham Community News. When the pandemic took hold back in March, many of us assumed it may be ‘over by Christmas’ but here we are, still wondering how on earth we came to this strangest of festive seasons. At this time of year, our team at DCA usually get together for a winter walk and share a Christmas meal to reflect on the challenges and triumphs of the passing year. This year, we joined each other on-line (in a range of Christmas hats, jumpers and assorted technically generated attire) to reflect on what has worked well for us, despite all the restrictions, and the frustrations and joys of homeworking...and home schooling for some of our team! A couple of observations stood out: first, the significant increase in the number of people (primarily volunteers) and the variety of volunteer led organisations who took part in our online training and networking events. We hope these events and activities have been useful for those who took part, as much for the networking and companionship with others, as for the information and support offered. The second observation which struck a chord was how remarkably adaptable, responsive and creative people in our sector can be when we are up against it. Volunteers collaborated and shared insights to test and launch the new on-line platform for volunteering this year, and we have had the privilege to encourage, support and share many examples of innovative practice within communities from groups managing projects, running buildings and providing emergency activities in response to ever changing COVID-19 secure guidance. Our busy team at DCA will be collectively closing their ‘virtual’ offices on Friday 18th December ready to reopen on January 4th 2021 and begin another busy year. Wishing you a safe and a very happy Christmas and hoping we can all look forward to a much better year in 2021, building on all the brilliant work which volunteers and communities have done through this most challenging of times. Best Wishes Jo Laverick Chief Executive, Durham Community Action |