HCF Training

Applications for Building Effectiveness 2024 are closed!

Application dates:

Programme cost

Each participant's organisation is asked to pay a contribution fee of £350. This is a one-off cost, with all other aspects of the programme (excluding travel to and from venues) covered by the support of our generous programme sponsors.

Who can apply?

• Organisations located in or providing services in Hertfordshire 
• Registered charities, charitable companies (including CICs and CIOs) or formally constituted community groups
• Organisations working to improve community need and deprivation
• Organisations that have been running for at least 12 months, employ at least one person in a paid role and have an income of £100,000+ in the last 12 months
• Organisations with a board of Trustees, Directors, or management committee with at least two, non-related members

We are not able to accept applications from:

• Religious or political organisations 
• Statutory bodies or private profit-making companies that do now have charitable status
• National charities without a Hertfordshire focus

Organisations not meeting all the eligibility criteria will be considered.  Please contact [email protected] to discuss with us before applying.  

Programme commitment

Participant organisations are required to attend all meetings and also dedicate adequate time outside of these meetings to achieving their Strategic Business Plan goals.

The Effectiveness Coaches will work with you to agree what goals are achievable within the timeframe of the programme and allowing for other work priorities, however you should allow at least 2 hours a week outside of the workshop sessions, and mentor meetings to derive maximum benefits from the programme.

How will applications be assessed? 

Applications will be assessed by a panel consisting of HCF staff, Effectiveness Coaches and other parties affiliated with the programme against the following criteria:

• Fulfilling the eligibility criteria
• The capacity of the organisation to engage with the programme
• Evidence that the board and senior management are keen and willing to dedicate resource to the programme
• Evidence that the organisation’s expectations are realistic and that there is a desire for positive change
• The potential for development and the likely impact
• Priority will be given to organisations that have not taken part in Building Effectiveness before