What We Do

Our General Aim

To enhance the quality of life of people in the Hastings area by promoting the principle and practice of voluntary action by both individuals and organised groups, and by supporting the development of local initiatives to meet community needs.

Our Specific Aims

HVA is a member of the National Association of Councils for Voluntary Services (NAVCA) and our aims are consistent with NAVCA guidelines on the current role and function of a Council for Voluntary Service.

To provide support services that help voluntary and community groups to operate effectively.

To identify local needs and work with communities and other agencies to develop appropriate action.

To develop effective networks and links between organisations and groups working within the community.

To enable voluntary and community sector views to be represented in an effective and accountable way.

To ensure that the voluntary and community sector can work in strategic partnerships with other sectors.

Our Values

The work of HVA is guided by a set of values which help to determine work priorities and the overall style of working. HVA recognises that Hastings is a diverse town and that everyone has a contribution to make and a right to equality of opportunity. HVA believes that:

No person should suffer oppression or lack of opportunity based on race or ethnic origin, gender, faith, sexual identity, disability, age, education or economic achievement.

All people should have the opportunity to collectively play an active part in their community.

All people have rights to social justice and to participate in decision-making processes and local action.

Priority should be given to working with people whose full participation in society is limited by economic, political and social disadvantage.

 HVA is committed to challenging oppression and inequality and will positively promote these core values in all areas of its work and structure.

How we have turned our Aims and Values into practice in 2005/6 - Our Annual Report