top of page
VASWS NEWS
Keep up to date with the latest news from Voluntary Action South West Surrey, as we aim to strengthen the voluntary and community sector across South West Surrey. We support all members of the local community to access services to improve their health and wellbeing, and we aim to update you through this page when there are updates.


☕ Altitude Coffee Bar Drop‑In: A Warm Volunteers’ Week Gathering in Cranleigh
Volunteers’ Week gave us another brilliant reason to get out into the community, this time at the welcoming Altitude Coffee Bar in Cranleigh. The atmosphere was buzzing from the moment we arrived — friendly faces, great conversations, and of course, excellent coffee. Several local residents dropped in to chat with us, alongside representatives from a range of local organisations who were keen to share insights into Cranleigh’s current needs. It was exactly the kind of open, i
3 days ago1 min read


Celebrating Volunteers’ Week in Guildford
Volunteers’ Week gave us the perfect opportunity to recognise the incredible people who give their time, energy and heart to our community. On Tuesday 2 June, we welcomed volunteers to our Millmead office in Guildford for a relaxed morning of conversation, connection and a little local history. The day began with coffee and cakes served by our Volunteer Connections team member Kate Jones, creating a friendly space for volunteers to meet, chat and share stories. It was a simpl
5 days ago2 min read


🌟 The Body Coach Foundation Launches the Get Kids Moving Fund
The Body Coach Foundation has officially opened its very first grant window — and it’s all about helping children and young people across the UK get moving, feel good, and thrive. The new Get Kids Moving Fund will award grants ranging from £1,000 to £10,000 to organisations that are improving young people’s physical activity levels and wellbeing through movement. From community sports clubs to youth charities and grassroots groups, the fund aims to support the incredible work
5 days ago2 min read


Handling Sickness Absence in Your Charity
Sickness absence can hit charities hard. Small teams, stretched resources and specialist roles mean even one unexpected absence can disrupt services. A clear, compassionate approach helps you support staff while keeping your organisation running smoothly. What Charities Need to Focus On 1. Encourage Early, Honest Communication Open conversations help you understand issues sooner and offer support before problems escalate. Make reporting procedures simple and ensure managers
5 days ago1 min read


☕ Connecting Over Coffee: Discover Local Volunteering in Cranleigh
Supporting your community doesn’t always start with a big commitment — sometimes it begins with a friendly chat over a good cup of coffee. That’s exactly the spirit behind our upcoming drop‑in event hosted at Altitude Coffee Bar in Cranleigh. On Thursday 4th June, from 9:30am to 12pm, residents are invited to stop by, meet the team, and explore the many ways they can get involved in local volunteering. Whether you’re looking to share your skills, meet new people, or simply
6 days ago1 min read


Newsletter May 2026
Click on the link below to read our latest newsletter https://eocampaign1.com/web-version?p=fce6b000-5e6f-11f1-830e-19a3c51c1775&pt=campaign&t=1780397129&s=dfd46c6dc9e172edd211e9a13ea0aae0b51124082c4cf54b07ad10e3b78acedf
6 days ago1 min read


Alcohol Health Champions - Videos
We are delighted to share these 30-second, short videos from our Alcohol Health Champions project, in partnership with Surrey County Council. With thanks to our Volunteer Champions; Isabel, Melissa and Alex for taking part, with a brief cameo appearance from Hilary, the Project Lead for VASWS. Look out for our pop-up, outreach events in Guildford and Godalming during Alcohol Awareness Week in July. Further details to follow. Surrey Drug and Alcohol Support https://www.youtube
May 121 min read


Alcohol Health Champions - Final Training Day
What a beautiful sunny day we had, last Thursday, for our final Alcohol Health Champions Training Day, in this 12-month project, in partnership with Surrey County Council. A lovely, engaging group of delegates, from charities & organisations across Guildford & Waverley, with a 'guess the units' quiz, fantastic training materials, role play & an awesome lunch on the enclosed patio. Silverbirch House Care Home - Barchester Healthcare looked after us beautifully. And Nell, our T
Apr 281 min read


Newsletter March 2026
As we move further into 2026, March offers a valuable moment to pause, reflect and look ahead to the opportunities spring will bring for our communities across South West Surrey. View our latest newsletter by clicking on the link below. https://eocampaign1.com/web-version?p=54e51f4c-2e89-11f1-badd-b3c86f156fa9&pt=campaign&t=1775130348&s=e788d9206ca9748951c858d79ab3980148f203023c8660641f29666b339e4a99
Apr 21 min read


Alcohol Health Champions
We had the perfect day yesterday to film the Surrey County Council Media Campaign for our Alcohol Champions Project. With thanks to Melissa at Dose of Nature for hosting us so well, in such a beautiful location. And to Markus, our brilliant videographer! If you would like to attend the FINAL Alcohol Health Champions Training Day, in this 12-month Project, on 23rd April, please email h.holness@vasws.org.uk Surrey Drug and Alcohol Support
Mar 191 min read
bottom of page
