Blog | Middlesbrough Voluntary Development Agency

Embarking on a Journey: A New Starter's Experience at MVDA

1 February 2024 - 10:44am

Joining a new organisation is always an exciting and nerve wracking time. As I recently became a part of the Middlesbrough Voluntary Development Agency (MVDA), I want to share my initial impressions and experiences as a new starter in this vibrant and community-focused environment.

Creating a Deaf and Disabled Persons Organisation in South Tees

2 November 2023 - 3:21pm

There are 14 million Disabled people in the UK, and we make up a fifth of the population. However we are not a homogenous group and have different impairments, are different genders, sexual orientations, come from different backgrounds, and live different lives. It is true that some of us experience greater injustice than others, but we have many things in common. We all want to live in an inclusive society where everyone has a fulfilling life and feels connected and valued.

Men: it is okay to talk...

3 August 2023 - 3:29pm

From time to time in this job, I encounter people whose lives have been turned upside down by unfathomable circumstances. I spoke with Suzanne Julian at the Headlight Project last week and it just reminded me of how important it is to pause and think about how we are feeling – men in particular are much less likely to speak about things that are troubling them.

Founded in memory of Russ Devereux, the Headlight Project aims to reduce the number of deaths by suicide in the Tees Valley area through therapy of those bereaved by suicide and preventative education and training.

Bringing my Volunteering Academy baby into the world!

6 July 2023 - 4:38pm

I recently read an article that had drawn parallels with planning, executing and managing a new project as something similar to having a baby and the last few weeks have certainly made me agree. As part of a team who are working towards bringing our idea of making volunteering inclusive, easy and accessible to all through our new ‘baby’ Volunteering Academy, I can certainly relate to my experiences of bringing new lives into this world.

Lets Work together to get basic digital access for Middlesbrough residents - follow up

15 June 2023 - 11:07am

Guest blog by Sue Kearney, CEO at The Hope Foundation

On the 24th June 2020 I had my blog published with the title 'Lets Work together to get basic digital access for Middlesbrough residents'.

Since then the collaborative work has continued and spread across the Tees Valley to address the issues of