We are here to support, promote and develop voluntary and community action in Middlesbrough

From Stretched to Strong: How Funded Training Can Transform Your Charity or Community Organisation

Running a charity, community interest company (CIC), or community organisation is no small task. You’re juggling limited resources, meeting the needs of the people you serve, and supporting your staff and volunteers, often all at the same time. With so much to do, it can feel impossible to justify taking time out for training.

But here’s the thing: investing in skills development isn’t just good for your people, it’s good for your mission. And thanks to funding from Tees Valley Combined Authority, your organisation can access high-quality training at little to no cost 90-100% funded.

Why Training Matters for Organisations Like Yours

  1. Boosts confidence and capability
    When your staff and volunteers feel confident in their roles, they’re more effective and engaged. For example, a volunteer team leader completing a Leadership & Management course will be better equipped to motivate their team, handle challenges, and keep projects running smoothly.

  2. Strengthens your services
    Training directly improves the support you deliver to your community. Someone completing a Counselling Skills course may be better prepared to handle sensitive conversations with empathy and professionalism.

  3. Helps you adapt and grow
    Digital skills are essential in today’s world. Our Digital Marketing training helps your team create engaging content, run social media campaigns, and measure impact—all without outsourcing.

  4. Shows your people they matter
    Investing in your team tells staff and volunteers that they’re valued. This boosts morale, improves retention, and makes your organisation a place people are proud to be part of.

A Real-World Example: From Stretched to Strong

Take Sarah, manager of a small community centre. She inherited a long list of projects and a team of committed—but overstretched—volunteers. Training felt like a luxury, something she couldn’t justify.

After discovering Enterprise Made Simple and the fully funded courses through Tees Valley Combined Authority, Sarah’s team began their transformation:

  • She completed the Leadership & Management programme, learning techniques to motivate volunteers, delegate effectively, and keep projects on track.

  • A team member took the Digital Marketing course, improving the centre’s online presence and running a fundraising campaign that doubled donations.

  • A volunteer completed Counselling Skills, gaining confidence to support local residents with sensitive conversations.

The result? A stronger, happier team, a bigger community reach, and more impact than ever—all without stretching the budget.

Fully Funded Support for Your Team

Thanks to Tees Valley Combined Authority, eligible charities, CICs, and community organisations can access these courses at 90–100% funded. That means your team can gain valuable, accredited skills without the financial burden.

Let’s Talk About Your Training Needs

Whether it’s building leadership skills, boosting your online presence, or improving support for the people you serve, our funded training can help you do more—with more confidence.

Visit www.enterprisemadesimple.co.uk or email andrea@enterprisemadesimple.co.uk to find out which courses you’re eligible for and how quickly you can get started.

Andrea Clarke

Enterprise Made Simple

Andrea is the Client Development Director at Enterprise Made Simple (EMS). 

EMS upskill and develop individuals and businesses with leadership, communication, digital marketing, business planning, business growth strategies, and computer skills training.