AGC takes on paid staff

Thursday 12 January 2023

Joni Nettleship has joined the Association of Guernsey Charities as its first paid member of staff - working as Development Officer, to offer increased support to the third sector which in turn is contributing more to the island than ever before.

Ms Nettleship has experience working in and with third sector organisations.

Her new role as Development Officer for the AGC is a continuation of a role she had already established for herself at the Guernsey Community Foundation. The two organisations work closely together and the Foundation has committed to continue funding the post through the Association for at least three years.

Pictured: The Association of Guernsey charities has more than 300 members.

In the AGC role Ms Nettleship will take on responsibility for co-ordinating the delivery of support to members and promoting the voluntary sector to the wider community and other stakeholders. The AGC has more than 300 members ranging from very small non profit groups to much larger charities. 

In addition, the AGC is also recruiting an Administrator to undertake day to day administrative duties while supporting the Development Officer and volunteer directors. This is seen as another vital post to ensure that the increased needs of the 300+ member charities can be met in what has been described as "especially challenging times".

Wayne Bulpitt, Chair, Association of Guernsey Charities, said the administrator role and general operational costs for the Association to establish a support centre, have been funded by the Social Investment Fund in a three year commitment.

‌“This initiative by the Association of Guernsey Charities, especially in partnership with the Social Investment Fund and Guernsey Community Foundation marks a significant step up in the support available to charities and voluntary organisations within the Bailiwick and will focus on the needs highlighted by members," he said.

The following areas will receive additional focus as a result of the investment: 

· The provision of training and practical/professional support

· To promote charitable giving, including advice on fundraising and grant applications

· Ensuring that there is a single resource library and practical assistance

· Promoting the benefits and opportunities of volunteering and access to professional services and advice.

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Pictured: Wayne Bulpitt is Chair of the Association of Guernsey Charities.

Mr Bulpitt added that as a result of the funding, "collectively the Association will provide a clear voice in representing the sector to key stakeholders such as Government, funders, and the wider community.”

Stephen Jones, Chair of Guernsey's Social Investment Fund agreed that the new funded roles will be an added bonus for many organisations.

“We are very pleased to be able to help with the beneficial changes planned for the AGC at this important time for the third sector in the Bailiwick, particularly with the new charity legislation requiring all charities to strengthen their governance. Funding the costs of the administrator fits in well with our criteria and we wish the AGC board great success with what they are intending to achieve."

The announcement has also been welcomed by Sir Richard Collas. The island's former Bailiff is Chair of the Community Foundation and is therefore aware of the work that Ms Nettleship has already achieved.

“The AGC and the Foundation first began discussing these plans some time ago," he explained, "and it is exciting to see them come to fruition.

"Joni’s appointment will enable the AGC to increase the support that it gives to charities at this critical time. The Foundation, meanwhile, will continue to play an active role in supporting the third sector by awarding grants, offering advice to charities, and promoting community causes."

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