Voluntary Sector Forum
We were pleased to welcome RVS Partners and Members to Rushmoor Voluntary Services AGM on 23rd September 2026.
The 2025/26 Annual Report was presented to the meeting, this and the draft minutes of the meeting can be found here:
The Annual Report includes a summary of the CEO’s Annual Report. A full version can be found here: CEO’s 2026 Annual Report
We also received an update on Local Government Reorganisation from Karen Edwards, RBC Executive Director. The presentation can be found here: RBC LGR
The Hart and Rushmoor Voluntary Sector Forum followed on immediately after the AGM. This was followed by presentation from RVS Members:
1. The Lighthouse
Presenter: Jo Emett, Aldershot Centre Manager
Jo gave an insightful presentation about the Lighthouse’s work in Aldershot. The discussion included a question about possible restrictions affecting the organisation. The response emphasised that building local community is a key focus.
2. Artwell – Psychologically Informed Creative Arts
Presenter: Corinne Marsh, Artistic Director
Corinne gave an overview of the group’s psychologically informed creative arts work. The presentation drew on psychotherapy and mental health experience, explaining how creative imagination and psychologically informed techniques are embedded in its approach.
Their work aims to provide a sense of calm and support people to explore and express their lived experiences through creative activity. The role of artists in helping people engage with their experiences was highlighted. An eight-week course begins on the 1st October.
3. Read Easy and the National Year of Reading
Presenter: Laura Ellis, Area Learning Lead – Hart & Rushmoor, Hampshire Libraries
Laura provided an update on the reading initiative and the National Year of Reading campaign, “Go All In”. The presentation focused on making reading accessible to more people.
Hampshire Achieves is the name replacing Learning in Libraries.
The voluntary sector was identified as having a potential role in helping people who are less confident with digital technology to access services and to help to complete online sign-up processes. Support may be available to community organisations directly.
Presentations can be found here:
The next Hart and Rushmoor Voluntary Sector Forum will be hosted by Hart. This will be preceded by their AGM at 10am on Monday 30th November at Hart District Council offices. Further details and booking information will be shared nearer the time.