Opportunities, Connections and Plenty to Celebrate This September
September brings a fresh mix of opportunities from across Kent and Medway’s VCSE sector.
This month, we’re celebrating national recognition for Social Enterprise Kent, looking ahead to our new Community Food Shop in Chatham, and sharing funding, training, events and practical support for local organisations and communities.
Have something to share in a future edition? Send your news, events, vacancies or achievements to marketing@sekgroup.org.uk.
SEK Named Finalist in the UK Social Enterprise Awards 2026
We’re delighted to share that Social Enterprise Kent has been shortlisted for Community-Based Social Enterprise of the Year at the UK Social Enterprise Awards 2026.
The national awards celebrate social enterprises and co-operatives changing lives, strengthening communities and putting people and planet first.
We’re also incredibly proud that SEK CEO Rebecca Smith has been shortlisted for Women’s Champion of the Year.
A huge thank you to our team, volunteers, partners and communities across Kent and Medway. This recognition reflects the collective effort of everyone helping us create positive change.
The awards, hosted by Social Enterprise UK in partnership with Co-operatives UK, take place on 12 November at New Century Hall in Manchester.
Social Value in Action 2026: Fresh Ideas, Practical Insight and New Connections
Thursday 5 November 2026 | 9am to 4pm | Aylesham Community Trust, Canterbury
One day. Big conversations. New connections. Practical ideas to take back to your organisation.
Join us for Social Value in Action 2026, Social Enterprise Kent’s annual conference bringing together people from across the VCSE, public, health and business sectors to explore how we can build stronger places and create greater social impact together.
We’re bringing together national speakers, local leaders and community organisations, with voices from The King’s Fund, Better Society Capital and Plinth.
Throughout the day, we’ll explore funding and social investment, place based working, partnership and collaboration, demonstrating impact, social value, innovation and AI.
It’s also a chance to meet potential partners, make new connections, share ideas and be part of the conversation about what stronger communities could look like across Kent and beyond.
Tickets are £10, including lunch and refreshments. Places are limited, so book yours now.
Affordable Food and Community Support is Coming to Chatham
We’re getting ready to open the new SEK Community Food Shop Chatham this October, bringing affordable food, practical support and a welcoming community space to Medway.
Located on the first floor of The Pentagon Shopping Centre, the shop will offer lower cost groceries, fresh produce and everyday essentials. It will be open to all Medway residents, with no membership or referral needed.
People visiting the shop will also be able to access practical advice and support with areas including household finances, employment, wellbeing, digital skills and local services.
Could You Join Our Chatham Volunteer Team?
We’re looking for friendly volunteers to help bring the new shop to life. Opportunities include welcoming customers, stocking and organising shelves, preparing deliveries, keeping the shop welcoming and learning how to use the tills.
No previous retail experience is needed. Full induction, training and ongoing support will be provided.
SEK Community Food Shop Chatham
Units 66 and 67, Pentagon Shopping Centre
Military Road, Chatham, ME4 4HY
Interested in volunteering? Contact Zoe Young at z.young@sekgroup.org.uk or call 07311 821396.
Free Support for People in Ashford and Ramsgate
Could someone you support benefit from a little extra help to move forward?
Social Enterprise Kent is delivering a new programme offering free, personalised employability and wraparound support for adults living in or near Ashford and Ramsgate. The programme is flexible and shaped around the individual. It can range from a one-off conversation to longer-term support of up to eight weeks.
Support can include employment and skills, budgeting and financial wellbeing, access to health services, energy advice and wider support to improve confidence, wellbeing and independence. We can also deliver group training sessions within community settings.
The programme is available to people aged 18 and over, with referrals and self-referrals welcomed.
To make a referral or find out more, email support@sekgroup.org.uk or call 01843 210005.
Young Cooks Opens the Door to Skills, Confidence and Future Careers
Young people across Kent and Medway have been getting a taste of life in the food and hospitality industry through SEK’s Young Cooks programme.
In August, participants went behind the scenes at COOK in Sittingbourne, taking part in kitchen tours, taste panels and hands-on food preparation while learning how a professional food business operates.
Later in the month, 16 young cooks aged 6 to 16 joined a special Masterclass at Brakes Foodservice HQ in Ashford, cooking alongside Brakes Development Chef Zoe Gill and Great British Bake Off finalist Jane Beedle.
Young Cooks is about much more than a competition. It gives young people opportunities to build confidence, develop practical skills, meet industry professionals and discover potential career pathways.
Could 2027 Be Their Year?
Entries are now open for Young Cooks 2027, open to primary and secondary school-age young people and those aged 16 to 25 in full-time education.
Participants can access experiences including masterclasses, industry visits, live finals and showcase events.
Whether you want to strengthen your own skills or develop your team, there are several practical training opportunities coming up with Social Enterprise Kent.
Fully Funded City & Guilds AI Training: Limited Places Available
There’s still time to access fully funded AI training through the Kent AI Skills Accelerator, with a limited number of places available for eligible Kent organisations.
Choose from AI Prompt Engineering or AI Governance & Ethics. These City & Guilds Assured courses are worth £999 and are available at no cost thanks to funding from Kent County Council through the Helping Hands programme.
The courses provide practical skills to help you use AI more effectively and responsibly in your organisation. More than one employee can be nominated, although each person can enrol on one course only.
Places are limited and subject to eligibility, so early application is recommended.
Community EngagementDevelop practical approaches to engaging communities effectively and building stronger relationships with the people you work with. 28 September |
Emergency First Aid at WorkBuild the confidence and practical skills needed to respond effectively to common workplace emergencies. 29 September |
Safeguarding Level 4Develop advanced safeguarding knowledge and skills for roles involving greater safeguarding responsibility. 9 and 10 November |
First Aid for Mental Health Level 2Build your understanding and confidence to recognise mental health concerns and provide appropriate first response support. 13 November |
Free Tech Support Could Help Solve Your Charity’s Digital Challenges
CAST and the Tech for Good Alliance are offering free digital support to charities facing common technology challenges.
Support could include case note writing, event management, fundraising applications, impact reporting, CRMs, staff or member hubs and digital accessibility. Where organisations across the sector are experiencing similar challenges, reusable solutions may also be developed. Organisations supporting financial resilience are particularly encouraged to get involved.
For an informal conversation, contact jackie@wearecast.org.uk.
>Find out more about the free tech support
Help Put More Food on Local Tables in Sittingbourne
Helps for All CIC is continuing its Community Food Drives in Sittingbourne, supporting local people and families experiencing hardship. The organisation has already supported more than 80 families and distributed over 200 food parcels, with demand continuing to grow.
Upcoming Community Food Drive dates:
19th September | 3rd October | 17th October | 31st October | 14th November | 28th November 2026
10am to 1pm | 91 High Street, Sittingbourne, ME10 4AJ
Donations, volunteers and support from local organisations, businesses and residents are all welcome.
>Find out more about Helps for All CIC
Connect With Thanet’s Voluntary and Community Sector
Thursday 24 September 2026 | 10am to 12pm | Pie Factory Music, Ramsgate
Hosted by Thanet District Council, the Thanet Voluntary and Community Sector Forum is an opportunity for local VCSE organisations to connect, share updates and discuss priorities affecting Thanet’s communities. The Forum aims to strengthen communication and collaboration between the council and the voluntary and community sector.
Venue: Pie Factory Music, High Street, St Lawrence, Ramsgate, CT11 0QG.
Explore How to Raise and Manage Money at Seaside CEO
Thursday 24 September 2026 | 5pm to 7pm | Royal Temple Yacht Club, Ramsgate
This Seaside CEO event includes the Kent launch of the South East Investment Fund, making £200 million available to businesses across the region. Hear from representatives from the UK Business Angels Association, Let’s Do Business, Maven Capital Partners and The FSE Group.
Tickets cost £5 and include drinks and peer networking.
Could Employing a Young Person Benefit Your Business?
Wednesday 30 September 2026 | 9.30am to 11am | Broadstairs
Businesses are invited to a special BOSS Business Networking event exploring the benefits and support available when employing young people.
Hear from the Department for Work and Pensions about current employer incentives, including the £3,000 youth jobs grant, and learn more about Thanet’s new Youth Employability and Skills Hub. The Hub is a partnership between Nelson College London, the Department for Work and Pensions and Thanet District Council, helping young people move into employment and training.
Venue: Youth Employability and Skills Hub, Nelson College, Northwood Road, Broadstairs, CT10 2RZ.
>Find out more and book your place
Grow Your Social Enterprise Without Losing Sight of Your Purpose
Wednesday 7 October 2026 | 2.30pm to 5pm | The Foundry, London
Social Enterprise UK, in partnership with Ethical Property, is hosting a panel and networking event exploring how social enterprises can grow while staying true to their social purpose.
Speakers from Breakthrough, The Dusty Knuckle, WYK Digital and Young Ladies Club will share their experiences of growing their organisations, overcoming challenges and planning for the future. The event is also an opportunity to connect with other social enterprises, exchange ideas and pick up practical tips for developing and implementing growth strategies.
Venue: The Foundry, 17 Oval Way, London, SE11 5RR.
>Find out more and book your place
Make Your Digital Marketing Smarter and Your Business Safer
Wednesday 7 October 2026 | 10am to 12pm | Ashford International Hotel & Spa
How are AI and changing online search habits affecting the way customers find your organisation, and how well protected are you from cyber threats?
Kent and Medway Growth Hub is hosting a free Digital Marketing and Cyber Security Workshop packed with practical advice.
Hear how AI and large language models are changing digital marketing and learn practical steps organisations can take to protect their data, customers and business from common cyber threats. The session also includes a live Q&A and networking.
Venue: Ashford International Hotel & Spa, Simone Weil Avenue, Ashford, TN24 8UX.
Meet Funders Face to Face This October
Friday 23 October 2026 | 9.45am to 3pm | Three Hills Sports Park, Cheriton Road, Folkestone, CT19 5JU.
If funding is on your organisation’s agenda, this is a date worth saving.
This year’s Meet the Funders event will bring together representatives from a range of local and national funders, with opportunities for one-to-one conversations. It is a valuable chance to ask questions, understand funder priorities and make useful connections for your organisation.
Booking details will be available soon. For now, save the date.
Get Moving for Mental Health at Mental Elf 2026
East Kent Mind’s Mental Elf Fun Run returns to Canterbury on Sunday 29 November 2026, bringing people together for festive fun while supporting positive conversations around mental health.
Participants can choose between a 5km or 2km course, with both routes open to walkers, joggers and runners. Everyone taking part will receive an elf hat and completion medal. Discounted Early Elf tickets are currently available, with an additional discount using the code mind when booking. Businesses, running clubs, gyms, sports clubs and schools are also encouraged to enter as a group.
Find Wellbeing Activities Across East Kent
East Kent Mind offers a wide range of wellbeing activities, courses, groups and workshops, both in person and online.
Activities take place across East Kent, including Ramsgate, Canterbury, Herne Bay, Margate and Whitstable. People registered with East Kent Mind services can access the latest timetable and prospectus.
For help registering, call 01843 319193 or email info@eastkentmind.org.uk.
Safe Haven Mental Health Support Across East Kent
Mental Health Matters provides free, non clinical mental health and emotional wellbeing support for adults aged 18 and over across East Kent.
Safe Havens provide welcoming spaces where people can access support without an appointment.
Thanet Safe Haven
Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
Thanet Mental Health Unit, QEQM, Margate, CT9 4BF
Telephone: 07850 655877
Email: thanet.mhm@nhs.net
Canterbury Safe Haven
Open daily, 6pm to 11pm
22 to 23 North Lane, Canterbury, CT2 7EE
Telephone: 07876 476703 or 07483 163953
Email: canterbury.mhm@nhs.net
Ashford Safe Haven
Open daily, 6.30pm to 11.30pm
William Harvey Hospital, Ashford, TN24 0LZ
Telephone: 07811 593219
Email: ashford.mhm@nhs.net
Mental Health Matters also runs monthly information drop ins at Romney Marsh Community Hub, Sunflower House, New Romney, from 1pm to 3.30pm.
Upcoming dates:
28 September | 26 October | 30 November | 21 December 2026
No appointment is needed.
The organisation is also keen to connect with GP practices and other local organisations to help reach people who may struggle to access existing services.
Free Resources to Help Children Prepare for School
Organisations supporting parents and young children can access free CBeebies Parenting resources designed to help children develop confidence and independence as they prepare for nursery or school.
The Skills for Starting School collection includes expert advice and simple activities covering areas such as toileting, taking turns and sharing, managing separation anxiety and supporting children who feel shy or nervous about starting somewhere new. Early years professionals can also access resources designed to help them share practical information with families.
>Explore CBeebies Parenting resources
Looking for funding to move an idea forward, strengthen your organisation or support your community? Here are some of the opportunities currently open to organisations and residents across Kent and beyond.
Funding for Young People’s Ideas
The National Institute for Health and Care Research is inviting young people aged 18 to 24 living in Kent, Surrey or Sussex to develop their own small projects encouraging other young people to get involved in health and care research.
Funding is available for successful applicants and no previous experience is required. Online information workshops will also help young people find out more.
Deadline: 28 September 2026
Groundwork Grassroots Grants
Small voluntary and community organisations with annual income of up to £25,000 can apply for unrestricted grants of £500 to £2,000.
Priority is given to organisations supporting marginalised or vulnerable communities and those working in areas of higher deprivation. Funding themes include poverty, mental health, inequality, arts participation and access to green spaces. Additional eligibility requirements apply to CICs.
Deadline: 30 September 2026
One Stop Community Partnership Programme
Local community groups can apply for grants of up to £500 for projects tackling food poverty, supporting vulnerable or older people and low-income families, supporting local sports teams, reducing waste or improving the environment. Your organisation or project must be within two miles of an eligible One Stop store where funding is currently available.
Deadline: 5pm, 30 September 2026
The Philip and Connie Phillips Foundation
Kent and Medway charities can apply for grants of up to £10,000 for work improving local health and wellbeing.
Priorities include older and isolated people, physical and mental health, homelessness, financial hardship and strengthening communities.
Deadline: 1 October 2026
Gambling Harms Prevention Grants
Kent County Council Public Health is offering grants of £5,000 to £8,000 for VCSE and community-based faith organisations delivering projects to prevent gambling-related harm and improve outcomes for Kent residents.
Projects could include frontline training, early intervention, awareness work with young people, family support or embedding gambling harm information and referral pathways into existing services. Applicants must be based within the Kent County Council administrative area.
Deadline: 11.59pm, 1 October 2026
The Happiness Fund
Grassroots not-for-profit community organisations can apply for funding for projects improving mental health, wellbeing, inclusion and skills development.
Two grants of £5,000 will be awarded, with a focus on projects that can create sustainable, longer-term benefits for their communities.
Deadline: 2 October 2026
>Find out more about the Happiness Fund
Screwfix Foundation: Improve Buildings Used by People in Need
Registered charities and not-for-profit organisations can apply for grants of around £5,000 towards projects that improve, repair or maintain buildings and facilities used by people in need. Funding can support improvements including heating, kitchens, bathrooms, sensory rooms, decorating, safety and security.
Next deadline: 10 November 2026
Find More Funding Through KCC Inside Track
The latest Kent County Council Inside Track newsletter brings together a wide range of grant and loan opportunities for voluntary and community organisations and businesses, alongside useful sources of support and advice. You can also search Kent’s online funding database for opportunities relevant to your organisation.
>Search Kent funding opportunities online
Join SEK as a Community Food Delivery Driver
Salary: £26,227 pro rata
Hours: 37.5 hours
Location: Kent and Medway
Contract: Permanent
Closing date: 25 September 2026
Join our Community Food Shop team, collecting food orders and donations and helping keep our shops across Kent and Medway stocked with affordable, good quality food.
It’s a varied, practical role combining driving with supporting our shops, reducing food waste and helping local communities.
People United seeking a new Executive Director
Salary: £50,000 per annum pro rata
Hours: 4 days per week/0.8 FTE
Location: Canterbury, Herne Bay and other parts of East Kent
Contract: Permanent with a 4-month probationary period
Closing date: 12pm, 21 September 2026
Read the Executive Director Information Pack
Flexible Part Time Opportunities with Treat Me Right
Treat Me Right is growing and is looking for people who want to use their skills, experience and ideas to make a positive difference in the community.
There are four flexible, part time opportunities available, suited to professionals who are self employed, freelance or looking to combine the role with other work.
Current opportunities include:
- Mentoring and Employment Coordinator
- Fundraising and Business Development
- Financial Wellbeing Coach
- Finance and Bookkeeping Officer
If you’re passionate about building meaningful relationships and using your skills to create social impact, take a look at the current opportunities and find out more about each role.
>View all opportunities with Treat Me Right
Help Shape a New Community Organisation in Tunbridge Wells
A new charitable organisation in Tunbridge Wells is seeking two independent founding trustees to help shape its development and governance.
The proposed Foundation for the Revival of Pubs and Communities aims to support independent pubs as community spaces, create volunteering and skills opportunities and support people facing barriers to employment or community participation. The organisation is still in formation and is not yet registered with the Charity Commission. This is an unpaid voluntary role, with experience across governance, finance, fundraising, safeguarding, inclusion and community work welcomed.
For further information or an introductory conversation, contact Egidio Rosa at egidiorosa54@gmail.com.
Help Bring Ramsgate’s History to Life
Thanet Trust is looking for volunteers to help create a new history exhibition celebrating Ramsgate’s people, places, stories and memories in November 2026.
There are plenty of ways to get involved, including historical and family research, oral history interviews, identifying photographs, model and display making, graphic design, photography and filmmaking. Local residents can also contribute memories or loan photographs, objects and documents. You can give as much or as little time as you have available.
Interested in getting involved? Complete the contact form, call 01843 855155 or email admin@tcdt.org.uk.
>Find out more and get involved
Stay Connected With Kent and Medway’s VCSE Sector
There is always more happening across our communities, and we want the VCSE Newsletter to help organisations find opportunities, make connections and share the brilliant work taking place across Kent and Medway.
Have news, events, vacancies, funding opportunities, achievements or community projects to share?
Email marketing@sekgroup.org.uk and your update could be featured in a future edition.
Want future editions delivered straight to your inbox?
>Subscribe to the VCSE Newsletter
Every day, we shape a better tomorrow.