HCF Training and Development

Application Dates

Programme Cost

Each participant organisation is asked to pay a contribution fee of £400.  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.

Programme Commitment

Participant organisations are required to attend all meetings (see below) and also dedicate adequate time outside of these meetings to achieving their Strategic Project 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.  

Programme Eligibility

We accept applications from:

• 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 unable to accept applications from:

• Statutory bodies or private profit-making companies that do not have charitable status
• National charities without a Hertfordshire focus

If you are unsure if your organisation is eligible for Building Effectiveness, please get in touch with [email protected] to discuss with us.  Depending on the circumstances, we do consider organisations who do not fit all eligibility criteria.

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