Introducing a new project to the Lambourn Junction Community Interest Company
The not-for-profit Company has been established specifically to encourage, nurture and operate community projects in Lambourn and the surrounding area. So many great ideas never come to fruition because it can be daunting to set up and run a community initiative.
The Company provides the solid backing of a registered and approved organisation which is often needed. This includes providing public liability insurance, volunteer insurance, health and safety checks, DBS checks for volunteers, bookkeeping and accounts, access to finance, the ability to apply for grants.
All projects have to adhere to the Guiding Principles of the company.
We have tried to answer some frequently asked questions below. The questions relate principally to long term projects. We can usually fastrack a one-off event.
The size of the project does not matter. From a one off Easter egg hunt for children to operating the Lambourn Food Bank – we are here to help the community.
Will I lose control of my project?
No, you remain in charge of your project and we will work together to ensure that your project is a success and adheres to applicable standards and practices.
For example,
- we would work with you to create a risk assessment for your project which is required in order for your project to be covered by our £10m public liability insurance. Volunteers working on the project would also be covered by our volunteer liability insurance.
- we would jointly put in place the health and safety measures required, including training if applicable, to make your project safe for volunteers and the public.
- we would discuss with you if volunteers need to be DBS checked, especially if your project involves contact with children.
- we would help you write a short project charter which sets out your objectives so that you could apply for funding from one of the many grant giving bodies.
- if you need some funding to start your project then we may be able to help.
- you can use the book keeping and bank account of the company to receive donations and make payments. This keeps payments separate from your private finances which in turn protects you from any accusation of financial impropriety or the risk of a tax liability.
- We would also work with you to ensure that you are compliant with the latest Data Protection regulations and do not leave yourself open to accusations of mis-managing personal information.
How would the day to day operation work?
You would become a member of the management team of the company. You will operate the project on a day to day basis adhering to the policies and standards we have jointly agreed. The project becomes part of the project portfolio of the Company which means that should anything go wrong, the Company will take responsibility and you are not in the front line as a private individual.
Would I have to attend meetings?
Yes, since the Company is ultimately responsible for the project you will need to attend some meetings. The meetings are a way of making sure that the projects are on track and are not deviating from our agreed ways of working.
You can talk, email or message us if you need any help or assistance.
Can the Company help me with publicity?
Yes, we operate the Lambourn Community Website and can create pages for your project on the site. We also have a mailing system which you can use to send emails to those participating in your project. You can, of course, also create facebook groups and use other media as long as it is compliant with data protection.
Are you a charity?
A community interest company is a type of company introduced by the United Kingdom government in 2005 under the Companies Act 2004, designed for social enterprises that want to use their profits and assets for the public good. It is similar to a charity in some respects however has more freedoms in the way it delivers services. The company is not-for-profit and is operated by volunteers, no-one receives a salary. It receives donations from members of the public, charities and statutory bodies. It is accountable to the Regulator of Community Interest Companies which is part of the UK Government.
Is this really free?
Yes. Your project will be expected to have its own balanced finances. You are not expected to contribute to the costs of running of the Company.
Can I bring an already established project to the Company?
In principle yes. We would have to discuss the nature of the project and any regulatory implications. We do not take on projects or activities which are in debt or have court cases or financial investigations pending.
If my project grows in size can I start my own Community Interest Company or Charity?
Yes of course. The Lambourn Junction Community Interest Company was established to nurture community activities. Nothing would delight us more than ventures which start small and grow. You are not locked in and we would help you with the transition.
When should I contact you?
As soon as possible after you have had your great idea! Please do not wait until you have a public event planned. This may be too late since we cannot offer you the benefits of the Companies services at short notice or retrospectively.
How do I contact you?
Please use the Contact Form on this website.