BASSETLAW COMMUNITY AND VOLUNTARY SERVICE SHORTLISTED FOR NATIONAL COMMUNICATIONS AWARD
We are thrilled to announce that Bassetlaw Community and Voluntary Service (BCVS) have been shortlisted for the Accessible Communications Award by Charity Comms.
The nomination highlights BCVS's extensive efforts to ensure that its communications are accessible to all individuals, regardless of language, ability, or background. One particular initiative was the launch of the Cost of Living Support Booklet, one of the first in the UK, in September 2022, with an updated version released in September 2023. In collaboration with RNIB, Braille versions of the booklet were created in 2023, making this essential information accessible to those with visual impairments.
The commitment to breaking down language barriers is evident in the translation capabilities of BCVS's Cost of Living web page, which can be translated into multiple languages. This innovation has inspired other charities in the area to follow suit and install translation tools on their websites.
In 2023, the introduction of bookmarks with QR codes linking to digital booklets and other useful websites provided convenient access for those with internet connectivity. Simultaneously, 7,500 physical booklets, containing direct phone numbers of supporting organisations, were produced for individuals without internet access.
During the Ukraine crisis in 2022, BCVS demonstrated agility by creating a "Welcome to Bassetlaw" booklet for Ukrainian guests, translated into both Russian and Ukrainian. This provided crucial support information in their native languages during a challenging time in a new country.
Rachel Wood, Head of Marketing and Communications at BCVS, said;
"We are absolutely thrilled to be shortlisted for the Accessible Communications Award by Charity Comms. This recognition reflects our dedication to break down barriers and ensure that vital information is accessible to all. This nomination inspires us to push the boundaries further and explore new avenues to enhance accessibility. We are very much looking forward to attending the award ceremony in London next month, alongside so many national charities. We are one of the smallest charities to have been shortlisted and we are the only charity in the East Midlands attending. We are all feeling very proud to be able to put Bassetlaw on the map."
Recognising the diverse needs of the community, a large proportion of BCVS staff members have undergone basic sign language training. Sign language signs have been implemented throughout BCVS's premises as visual reminders to facilitate effective communication with individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. Two Polish nationals employed by BCVS serve as dedicated translators, recognising the significant Polish population in the area.
BCVS will be in the company of various charity giants, including national organisations such as RNIB, WWF, Dementia UK, and The Prince's Trust. Being recognised alongside these reputable names underscores the efforts that BCVS have made to accessibility to a national standard. BCVS are also the only charity in attendance that is from the East Midlands area, showcasing that impactful and innovative work is not just confined to London. This is a testament to the dedication of the team at BCVS and the positive impact they are making in our community.
Find out who else has been shortlisted here: https://bit.ly/472Egdl
BCVS acknowledges that accessibility is an ongoing journey and remains dedicated to exploring new ways to enhance its communications. The organization's commitment to accessibility is deeply embedded in its organisational culture, and BCVS is eager to implement further improvements as technology and best practices evolve.
BCVS is proud to be a local leader in accessible communications, breaking down barriers, and making information universally accessible.
BCVS will be attending the award ceremony in London on 28 February.
For more information about BCVS and its initiatives, please visit www.bcvs.org.uk
For media inquiries, please contact:
bcvs@bcvs.org.uk 01909 476 118