Volunteer trustees from across Berkshire and west Oxfordshire gathered last month, braving the hottest day of the year so far, at Hermitage Village Hall for a practical training session focused on building effective management committees for community buildings and village halls.

The session was led by Kate Meads, Community Buildings Advisor at Connecting Communities in Berkshire, with support from Tessa Hall of sister organisation Community First Oxfordshire and Louise Beaton OBE, co-author of Halls for All: A History of Village Halls.

During the workshop, participants explored the essential ingredients of a successful management committee, including clearly defined roles, positive values and behaviours, effective governance, well-run meetings, and the importance of keeping community spaces safe, legal and welcoming.

Those attending described the event as a valuable opportunity to strengthen their understanding of hall management while also networking with others involved in running local venues.

The training session was interactive and thought-provoking, generating discussion and practical ideas that trustees could take back to their own organisations. It also highlighted one of the biggest challenges currently facing many community buildings: recruiting and attracting new trustees to help sustain these important local assets into the future.

Volunteers who support village halls and community buildings contribute time, experience and practical skills every week. From maintaining premises and organising events to overseeing bookings and finances, much of their work happens behind the scenes, but it remains essential to keeping these spaces open and active.  As Volunteers Week comes to a close we would like to say a massive THANK YOU to them on behalf of their local communities.

Community buildings and village halls continue to play a vital role in local life, providing welcoming places where residents can connect, take part in activities and support one another.

CCB’s role is to support community buildings and village halls by providing advice and guidance where needed, as well as visiting halls to carry out consultations that help ensure they remain fit, vibrant and sustainable well into the 21st century and beyond. Our next training event takes place later this month and will focus on Martyn’s Law – what the legislation is, why it matters, and how it may apply in community settings.

Book your place here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1985703839638?aff=oddtdtcreator

Thanks to West Berkshire Council Adult Community Learning Team for supporting these training sessions.