Frequently Asked Questions

How do I search the database?

Entering terms in the search box allows you to search the entire database. If you don't get any results try using different search terms. For example:

• bowls instead of bowling
• charity instead of charities

You will get best results if you use short search terms. For example

• football instead of football clubs
• Spanish instead of Spanish lessons

You can also browse the groups using the tag cloud below the search box. Just click on the subject that best describes the subject you are looking for. You can view the full list of subjects by following the View all subjects link at the bottom of tag cloud.

I get too many results from my search.

Try using the advanced search. This allows you to narrow the search by location and add different tags to your search.

I still can't find what I need

Contact us and we will do our best to locate what you are looking for. When writing or emailing please include as much information as possible about the type of group you are looking for.

How can I change the information for my organisation?

Print off this form, fill it in and return it to the address on the contact page. Alternatively contact us at community.groups@trafford.gov.uk. Copies of the form are also available at any Trafford Library, just ask a member of staff.

How can I add my organisation to the database?

You will first need to register for an account which will enable you to create new entries. You will need to provide a valid email address and a password. Follow the instructions to register and you will be given an online submission form to add the details of your group. If you want to add more than one group you will only need to register once because your account allows you to manage more than one organisation.

I already have a group in the database and I want to update it

You will first need to register for an account which will enable you to claim existing groups as well as adding new ones. Once you are registered, sign in and go to the required group where you will see a claim it link on the right hand side of the page. Click on this and you be asked for some information to verify that you are associated with the group. Once you have claimed a group and the request has been approved you will be able to edit the information using an online form.

How can I remove my organisation from the database?

Once you have successfully claimed a group an option to delete it will appear on your group's page.

I've added or made changes to a group but I can't see it on the website?

All requests for new groups and changes to existing groups are moderated before they are posted on the website. We will send you an email when the request has been approved or, if there is a problem with the entry, we may contact you for further information.

I do not want to submit information electronically / I do not have access to email.

Information can still be submitted using this form which you can print off, fill in and return to the address on the contact page. Copies of the form are also available at any Trafford Library, just ask a member of staff.

Limitations of information

The information included in this database is provided in good faith from the organisations themselves or is taken from publicly available sources. While every effort is made to update the material regularly Trafford Council cannot accept liability for any omissions or errors in the information held. Inclusion of an organisation or a link to an organisations website does not imply an endorsement or recommendation, or the suitability of the organisation or service for any particular purpose or need. All users of this database are strongly advised to contact the organisation first before visiting or attending a meeting. It is the responsibility of the user to check that an organisation adheres to the relevant national standards. These include, though not exclusively so:

• OFSTED registration for childminders, daycare providers and nursery schools
• The appropriate level of Criminal Record Check for any person working with or around children and vulnerable adults

Details of these standards can be found at www.ofsted.gov.uk and www.crb.gov.uk respectively. In addition we also suggest that children and vulnerable adults are accompanied by a responsible adult on their first visit to an organisation, group or service.

Important information for entries (Disclaimer)

This database is a community based service primarily containing voluntary organisations, clubs and non-profit services. These include sports clubs, charities, support groups, information and advice services, leisure groups, childcare providers and educational organisations. Commercial and profit making organisations will only be accepted where they are deemed to have sufficient value or interest to the local community. If you are unsure about the eligibility of your group please contact us and we'll see if we can include you. All information will be stored in compliance with The Data Protection Act (1998) and except where specified as private will be made available to the public. Information may be shared with other services within Trafford Council and in some cases may be used to make a hard copy directory. Please inform us if you do not wish to be included in such a directory. We retain the right to make editorial changes to entries submitted for inclusion or to refuse inclusion to any group or organisation deemed unsuitable. Failure by organisations to update their information or to respond to update requests may result in the entry being suspended.

Further information

If you any other questions after reading the information on this page please contact us.