Information and Advice for the Lancaster District’s Third Sector – 11 April 2025

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Ryelands and the Power of Community Unity
In the heart of Ryelands, something truly special is happening. A community once facing deep-rooted challenges is coming together to shape its future—led by the people, for the people.  

The Ryelands Community Action Network (CAN) was established in 2018 as a way to bring together residents, local authorities, schools, healthcare workers, police, and voluntary sector representatives. Over the years, Lancaster District CVS have been instrumental in developing this initiative which has strengthened relationships, built trust, and driven real change in the Ryelands community.  

Through years of relationship-building and collaboration, the group has created opportunities for residents to have a voice, shape their neighbourhood, and access vital support. The Community Action Network (CAN) model has proven that when a community listens, works together, and takes action, transformation is possible.  

This week we released an impact video based around the work involved and the journey to date highlighting what inspired the residents and partners to get involved, the importance of working together and their hopes and dreams for the future of the estate.  

Watch our video to hear from those at the heart of this journey and see the power of community in action. 

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HELP IS CLOSE – Lancaster District Mental Health Support Campaign
January saw the launch of a Lancaster District all-age mental health support campaign, designed to connect people of all ages with the physical and mental health resources they need while reducing loneliness and isolation.

Over the coming weeks Lancaster CVS and Lancaster ICC will be sharing campaign content across social media platforms and more. Look out for digital ads, posters, postcards, and beer mats appearing across Lancaster, Morecambe, Carnforth, and nearby areas.

We encourage everyone to share campaign content, including digital ads, reels, and shorts, on social media using the hashtag #helpisclose.

The digital versions of all the adverts can be found here.

Visit the campaign landing page for HELP!

Stanleys is Nearly Ready – Can You Help?
Stanleys is nearly there! With new heating, aircon, windows, doors, and a full rewire complete, the space is almost ready to reopen its doors – but they need a bit of help to get over the finish line. They’re on the lookout for lining paper, white paint, black gloss or eggshell, and most importantly, any painters or decorators who can spare a little time.

If you can donate materials or lend a hand, they’d be hugely grateful. Work starts from Monday, with a goal to open by 6th May. Please contact 07775 874413 if you can help!

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The Big Lunch – Sharing Friendship & Food
The Big Lunch is inviting everyone across the UK to get together in their communities to share friendship and food on 7-8 June this year.  An idea from the Eden Project, The Big Lunch started in 2009 and has become the UK’s annual celebration for neighbours and the biggest community-led fundraiser, helping to raise over £100m for good causes so far.  

A Big Lunch can be anything from a bite to eat with a few neighbours to parties for the whole street, and anything in between. It’s fun, it’s easy and it’s for everyone, so download your free party planning pack and make your community the place to be this June!

Get your free pack –  TheBigLunch.com

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Pathways to Work 
The Green Paper Pathways to Work: Reforming Benefits and Support to Get Britain Working was published by the Department for Work and Pensions on 18 March and was updated following the Spring Statement on 28 March. It outlines the government’s proposals to reform the benefits system, with the aim of reducing economic inactivity and supporting individuals with health conditions or disabilities in accessing employment opportunities. It has significant implications for many in receipt of Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payments (PIP), and the stated cuts are likely to lead to increased poverty and dependence on the VCSE sector to fill the gaps.

The short briefing here outlines the main points. This is now out for consultation but with no stated closing date – see here for response form. We will keep you updated on further changes and developments. 

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Spring Statement: What You Need to Know 
The Spring Statement a couple of weeks ago brought some key announcements that will be relevant to the VCFSE sector and the work you do in communities: 

15% cuts in the administrative costs of government departments for all departments by April 2030. As this includes funding for redundancy, this may affect some of the colleagues we work with in MHCLG, DCMS, DHSC etc., with additional uncertainty and almost certainly less money overall to fund other things. 

The government will invest in additional employment, health and skills support from 2026-27 to help people start or stay in work, scaling up to £1 billion a year by 2029-30. This is for anyone receiving out of work benefits with a work-limiting health condition. This investment will build on existing support from WorkWell, Connect to Work and the Get Britain Working trailblazers, all of which have some form of LIO involvement and which signals that further opportunities could be available to provide funding. 

Universal Credit health element (additional to standard UC) is to increase to £106 from £92 per week by 2030, but is frozen for existing claimants and reduced to £50 for new claimants. There will be additional premiums for those with most severe lifelong conditions. This will likely lead to an increase in referrals to foodbanks, debt advice and more people pushed into poverty with a reliance on the VCS to deliver in these circumstances.  

We will continue to update you on policy developments as they happen. 

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Lancaster City Council’s Car Club – Need a Car this Easter? 
Through Lancaster City Council’s partnership with Hiyacar there will be 6 electric vehicles available to book over Easter bank holiday 18th – 21st of April. So whether you’re visiting loved ones, running errands, or simply getting out and about, it’s easier than ever to hire a car just for when you need one.

Visit this link for more. 

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Lancaster District Charity Leaders Coffee Morning
If you are CEO, manager or someone else who is responsible for leading your work, join us for a coffee morning. This is an informal gathering and the aim is to connect with fellow colleagues for coffee, conversation and collaboration.

This informal gathering is a safe space to share anything relating to running your charity and build connections with other charity leaders in the district. Whether you’re looking for fresh ideas, peer support, or simply a friendly chat, you are very welcome to join us.

25 April, 8:45am – 10am, Print Room Cafe at The Storey LA1 1TH

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The Eden Project Big Lunch
The Big Lunch is inviting everyone across the UK to get together in their communities to share friendship and food on 7-8 June this year.

An idea from the Eden Project, The Big Lunch started in 2009 and has become the UK’s annual celebration for neighbours and the biggest community-led fundraiser, helping to raise over £100m for good causes so far.

A Big Lunch can be anything from a bite to eat with a few neighbours to parties for the whole street, and anything in between. It’s fun, it’s easy and it’s for everyone, so download your free party planning pack and make your community the place to be this June!

Get your free pack

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Help Shape the Future of Anti-Poverty Work in Lancashire 
Resolve Poverty is inviting professionals and volunteers across the VCFSE sector in Lancashire to take part in an important survey to help develop the Lancashire Anti-Poverty Network (LAPN). The Poverty Awareness, Prioritisation & Activity Survey aims to gather insights into best practices, key challenges, and areas for improvement in tackling poverty across the region. 

The survey takes just 15-20 minutes to complete, and all responses will be anonymised. Findings will be shared at the first in-person LAPN meeting later this year, helping to shape future anti-poverty initiatives. 

To complete the survey, visit this link. For more information, contact Patsy Davies at [email protected]

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BBC Make a Difference Awards – Lancaster District 
Who makes a difference in the Lancaster District? Vote your favourite community heroes in the community category and help shape the future of your community. Whether it’s supporting local initiatives, electing representatives, or making a difference on issues that matter to you, every vote counts. Participating in elections is a powerful way to ensure your community’s needs are heard and addressed. Take this opportunity to have a say. 

For more info and how to nominate 

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Power to Change   
Why communities need the power to own environmental assets.  
Imagine if as well as pubs and village halls, communities could dream big and purchase beloved rivers, woods, and peat bogs. A tweak to Labour’s forthcoming Community Right to Buy could make this possible, but rumours are circulating that this change is at risk of being abandoned.  

Writer and campaigner, Guy Shrubsole, has written about why this matters.  

Read Guy’s blog here  

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Great British Spring Clean 2025
Lancaster City Council is supporting the Great British Spring Clean 2025. Run by by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, the Clean is a mass action campaign that will take place from 21 March to 6 April and is now in its tenth year.

If you would like to organise a volunteer litter-pick either individually or as a group, then the City Council can provide you with the equipment and GBSC bags to do so.

Equipment and bags can be collected from Morecambe Town Hall between 9:00 and 16:00 Monday to Friday. Please make an appointment to arrange collection by emailing [email protected] with 5 working days’ notice.

For any planned group picks, please also email [email protected] to advise the date, time and location. The team can help to publicise them through social media.

Emergency First Aid at Work Level 3
The Level 3 Emergency First Aid at Work course is the most popular workplace first aid course in the UK. After completing this course, you will receive a certificate to prove that you have completed first aid training that meets Health and Safety (First Aid) 1981 Regulations to be a first aider in a low-risk work environment.

£49,50 (including booking fee), cancellation available until April 23.

1 May, 9:30am – 4:30pm, Warton Village Hall LA5 9QW

Find out more and book

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Getting the most out of Social Media
This practical, interactive session, led by Jo Doughty of alwaysbeingsocial.co.uk, will focus on helping attendees:

• build confidence using Facebook and Instagram, including which features to focus on
• understand how to use social media strategically, not just reactively
• learn what to post, when, and why
• attract the right audiences – supporters, fundraisers and volunteers
• improve visibility and impact without relying on a big team or budget
• using platform features such as Reels and Carousels, and basic analytics to stay consistent and make better decisions

8 May, 9:30am – 4:30pm, venue TBC

Find out more and book

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Adult Mental Health First Aid
Mental health first aid (MHFA) is an internationally recognised two-day training course which teaches people how to spot the signs and symptoms of mental ill health and provide help on a first aid basis. MHFA England training will teach you the best way to listen, reassure and respond, even in a crisis. Learning takes place through a mix of group activities, presentations and discussions.

The course normally costs up to £300, but in this case is fully funded by Lancashire County Council Public Health and is free. However, delegates must pay a £50 deposit (plus £2.65 covering ticketing and payment fees charged by our suppliers) at the time of booking. Your £50 deposit will be repaid on completion of both full days.

13 & 14 May, 9am – 5pm, Torrisholme Methodist Church

Find out more and book

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Designated Safeguarding Lead
This course will enable you to gain an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the Designated Safeguarding Officer role and develop competence and confidence in the role, enabling you to respond to the challenges of safeguarding children, families and adults in 2025.

£35 LDCVS members, £60 non-members.

23 May, 9:30am – 4:30pm, Christ Church Lancaster

Find out more and book

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ASIST Suicide Prevention
Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) is a two-day interactive workshop in suicide first-aid. ASIST teaches participants to recognise when someone may be at risk of suicide and work with them to create a plan that will support their immediate safety. Although ASIST is widely used by healthcare providers, participants don’t need any formal training to attend the workshop—ASIST can be learned and used by anyone.

The course is free, fully funded by Lancashire County Council Public Health and is free. However, delegates must pay a £50 deposit (plus £2.65 covering ticketing and payment fees charged by our suppliers) at the time of booking. Your £50 deposit will be repaid on completion of both full days.

3 & 4 June, 9am – 5pm, Venue TBC

Find out more and book

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Risk Assess your Charity Building
The Ethical Property Foundation’s advisers will guide delegates through the essentials of conducting a risk assessment for your premises, including:

• Understanding risk
• Navigating a risk assessment
• Learn the legal context
• Fulfil your responsibilities
• Connect risk assessment and insurance
• Prioritise improvements

20 May, 12 noon – 1pm, online

Find our more and register

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Demonstrating Impact Masterclass 
In a competitive funding environment, one of the best ways you can stand out is by powerfully demonstrating the impact that your work makes. Being able to prove your track record gives your organisation great credibility! 

The NEW Demonstrating Impact MASTERCLASS will dive into simple but effective ways to collect and present impact data to make strong impact reporting that makes your organisation stand out.  

This session is designed for people working across all types of fundraising, including Fundraisers and Charity Sector Professionals with all levels of experience. This Masterclass is suitable for organisations of all sizes. 

Time and Date: Thursday 1st May 2025, 12pm – 1pm 

Cost: £13.42 

Location: Zoom 

Find out more and book a place 

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Informing Research on Romantic Relationships Workshop 
The goal of this event is to advance research on romantic relationships, exploring their patterns and trends, and how they affect various areas of society. This includes topics such as social connectedness and loneliness, fertility, child-rearing, being child-free, infrastructure (like health and housing), and economic factors. 

The aim is to connect with experts, discuss important issues, and help shape the future direction of our research. The workshop will include three short presentations on current trends in research regarding dating, intimacy, connection, and relationships, with the following interactive activities: 

Identifying and mapping key issues in this area  

• Determining the types of data that organisations and practitioners need to support policy and practice 

• Exploring the best ways to translate research for these organisations 

• Developing goals that can guide broader research agendas 

Registration is free with lunch and parking included 

Time and Date: May 28th 2025, 10am-3pm 

Location: Lancaster University, Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4YW and online 

Register to attend by filling out this form 

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Aspiring Leaders Training – Limited Places for April
Community CVS is offering a free or heavily subsidised 10-week Aspiring Leaders training course tailored for those working in Health, Social Care, and the VCFSE sector across Lancashire. Starting 23 April, the course runs every Wednesday in Blackburn and covers key topics like leadership styles, team management, communication, EDI, project management, and even AI.

Participants can also opt to gain a CMI-accredited Level 3 or 5 qualification in Management and Leadership. Funding is available for self-employed individuals and organisations, with varying contributions depending on business size. Spaces are limited, and attendance is essential to pass—so early registration is advised!

View the course info leaflet

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Coffee connections: digital peer support
A free initiative for anyone working in the charity sector who is interested in connecting with a peer to chat about any digital topic. They will match you up randomly with someone else who has signed up and you can discuss any digital issues, ideas, etc. together.

Find out more and sign up

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Help Shape the LDCVS Training Programme
CVS members – and anyone else who is interested – can help us shape our training programme by completing this short survey. The results will help us plan our future provision to best suit your needs. Completing the questions should only take a few minutes.

Take the survey here

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DWP Disability Services support for SEND Schools, Colleges and Support Organisations
The Disability Services Advocacy Team are running free online sessions to support with raising awareness of the different Disability Services benefits and grants – Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB) and Access to Work (ATW).

They will be covering Disability Living Allowance for Children (DLA Child) and Personal Independence Payment (PIP) including the transition from DLA Child to PIP when the Child reaches the age of 16. The session will also include how Access to Work can help and support following secondary education when moving into employment.

To book:

Thursday 15 May 1pm – 3pm

Lancashire Mind Trustee Opportunities
Lancashire Mind is currently inviting applications for new Trustees to join its Board, with a particular focus on individuals who bring expertise in marketing and communications, legal and compliance, fundraising and business development, or AI/technology. The charity is especially seeking trustees to support its Sustainability and Growth Subcommittee, helping guide the future direction and development of its services. People with lived experience of mental health challenges are encouraged to apply. Mentoring and induction support are offered for new trustees.

Deadline to apply: Thursday 24th April, 4pm
Interviews: Wednesday 30th April

For more information and to download the recruitment pack, visit Lancashire Mind’s website.

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The Volunteer Achievement Awards is 20 years old this year!
 Thousands of volunteers have been recognised over the last two decades and we are thrilled to be continuing this legacy, celebrating the amazing work of volunteers across our district.

For 2025 we have added TWO new Awards for you to consider – Environment Hero of the Year and Wellbeing Champion of the Year, to acknowledge the importance and impact of voluntary action in these two increasingly prominent areas of activity. After a great start last week with some great nominations already, we want you to think about who you can nominate for an award. Who do you know whose volunteering has gone above and beyond? Who has made an amazing difference to other people in their community?

The Awards will take place on Friday 6th June between 5.30pm and 7.30pm, at The Strathmore Hotel,Morecambe. A buffet will be served at the end of the ceremony. We will be joined by the Right Worshipful Mayor of Lancaster and we have a couple of brilliant hosts lined up to guide you through what we are sure will be a fun and perhaps emotional evening!

Visit the page for the 2025 Awards to find out more and to nominate using our online form. We really encourage you to read the guidance before you submit your form. You have plenty of time – nominations are open from now until midnight on Sunday 18th May.

Please remember that the eight award categories are for individual people, not groups. If you want to recognise a group of volunteers you can choose ‘Certificate of Recognition’ on the form.

Make sure you remember to book your tickets here. Tickets are priced at £6 plus a small booking fee and are limited to four per organisation, to ensure that we can welcome as many people from as many organisations as possible.

If you would like to ask any questions or discuss the Awards further, please contact [email protected].

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Volunteer opportunities with Morecambe Maritime Festival

• Fundraiser – helping to obtain grants, donations and sponsors
• Leaflet distribution – distributing publicity materials to the public across various areas
• Venue steward – helping visitors and being a point of contact between organisers and venues

Visit our volunteering website to find out more

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IT Support Volunteer at Bay Veterans’ Association
Bay Veterans’ Association are looking for support with their computers and information technology, including updating desktops and laptops, looking after their website and social media accounts, liaising with their IT provider, and maintaining databases.

Find out more about this role

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Become a Trustee with SAFE
Have you always wanted to support your local community? Share your skills or interests to help others? Have some time spare and want to help but might not know how? SAFE can help! SAFE are currently seeking trustees to join their team and help them to shape the future of SAFE and enable support for the local community. The charity are seeking roles including: A Chair of Trustee, Trustees to support with Fundraising, Admin & HR, as well as general support roles. Trustee roles are remote and suggested a monthly commitment of 3-5 hours (This can vary each month depending on the charity’s activities) with quarterly trustee meetings. Please contact CEO Keeley to find out more [email protected] or 07568937988.

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REMAP Volunteers Wanted 
REMAP are in urgent need of volunteers with DIY and problem-solving skills to design and make aids to help people with disabilities where there is nothing available commercially. In particular they need people in FY and PR post code areas. 

The equipment, produced by their team of dedicated volunteers, can help with day-to-day tasks such as mobility, personal care or eating. Or it can enable the client to pursue a hobby or ambition, such as participating in a sport or art activity. 

Please take a look at their website for more information or contact [email protected] 

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Lead Volunteer for Premises – The Gregson Centre
Can you support the Gregson Centre, working with staff and volunteers to help them as they move forward with renovations and improvements to their slightly dilapidated but very well used Victorian building? 

Visit here for full details and to apply 

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Various Volunteer Roles with Harmony Health CIC 
Harmony Health is a new CIC working to support health and wellbeing in Lancaster communities and they need volunteers to support them with: 

• Bookkeeping
• Social media
• Administration
• Horticulture
• Direct health and wellbeing support 

Find out more about each role and how to get involved 

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Fundraising Volunteer – Beyond Radio 
Beyond Radio would love to hear from anyone who feels they could support them by offering their knowledge and experience of fundraising, helping with grant finding and general fundraising activities.  

Visit here for more information including how to apply 

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Van Drivers and Delivery Assistants  
The 3R Foundation charity shop in Carnforth needs volunteer van drivers and delivery assistants.  

See here for more details including how to apply  

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Under 18 Volunteering 
We’ve had a great response over the last few months to our call for opportunities for under 18s to volunteer, but we really want to widen participation as much as we can. So, if you have any roles for under 18s to support your organisation or project, please let us know. 

Like the idea of involving under 18s but have concerns? Perhaps you’re worried about insurance, or safeguarding – whatever your question, let us know and we can support you to engage under 18s with your work. 

We are still getting requests from parents and students looking for volunteering opportunities for people aged between 14 and 17, so if you’d like to offer them something, let us know. 

Please email [email protected] with the details. 

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Opportunities for Volunteering from Home 
Do you have any volunteering roles that can be done from home? We would like to increase the number of options that are available for people who either cannot, or would prefer not to, go out to volunteer. 

This can include people with disabilities; people who are challenged by anxiety, depression, or other mental wellbeing issues; people with short-term illness or injury that prevents them from going out; people who are isolating because of some other health related issue; or perhaps just people who want to do something but would find it more convenient to work from home. 

Roles that could be done from home could include things like administration, finance, social media, marketing and promotion, telephone befriending etc and often would only require minimal equipment, such as a computer and an internet connection. 

Please contact [email protected] with your volunteering needs. We have volunteers waiting for home-based roles, so there is potential for a quick referral. 

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Volunteer Opportunity Promotion and Recruitment
Have you registered on our website to promote your volunteer roles? By adding your opportunities to our website you will be making them available to the hundreds of people per month who check our site looking for something to do. You will also enable our team to easily and quickly signpost people to your roles, to give them the information that they need to decide whether they would like to apply. 

Registering is quick and easy and you can do it here. 

Once registered you will be able to add your roles. If you need any help, or have any questions, you can contact Mark by email at [email protected]  

In addition to the website, the Volunteer Centre can promote your roles via our bulletins and newsletters; through attendance at in-person events such as volunteer fairs; in 121 meetings with potential volunteers; through visits to various support organisations; drop-in events at local Job Centres; by posting to our social media platforms; and through our bi-weekly column in the Lancaster Guardian. 

If you would like to discuss any of this, including having space in our Lancaster Guardian column, please contact Mark. 

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Volunteering Opportunity Help Guide 
We have produced a guide to help you when adding an opportunity to our website – It is quite detailed and covers every possible question. You don’t need to follow it but please do look at it if you get stuck or if it isn’t clear which option to choose when going through the form to add new opportunities. 

You can now also add more users to your account. Once registered, log in, hover on Account at the top of the dashboard and click ‘Users’, where you can add more users. This will be useful if you would like someone else to check applicant info and contact potential volunteers. 

You can also now choose which category to add your opportunity under, to help people when searching for roles. If you can’t find an appropriate category, just use the ‘default’ category and let us know what categories you would like to see added. 

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DBS Checks 
We offer a DBS check service, working in partnership with Burnley, Pendle, and Rossendale CVS. If you need DBS certificates for your staff or volunteers, please visit our website here. 

Health & Wellbeing Support in the Lancaster District
Discover the Lancaster District Directory, your go-to resource for finding essential services offered by local community groups, the NHS, and local authorities. From health and fitness to mental wellbeing, financial advice, and job skills, this comprehensive directory has it all. Easily browse through detailed listings, contact information, and referral instructions to access the support you need.

Help Shape the Future of the NHS – Final Chance to Share Your Views
Change NHS was launched in October 2024 to gather public views, experiences, and ideas to help shape a new 10-Year Health Plan for England—aiming to build a health service fit for the future. There’s still time to get involved. To help finalise the Plan, members of the public are invited to share their views on the emerging ideas from the engagement so far. A quick survey is available on the Change NHS platform, where people can highlight their priorities for change. Feedback must be submitted by 5pm on Monday 14th April. Visit the survey here.

Earlier surveys are also still available to complete, but will also close on 14th April.

This is part of what has become the largest conversation ever held about the NHS, with over 190,000 contributions from the public and health and care staff to date. A National Summit held last Friday brought together hundreds of participants to reflect on the engagement so far and contribute further to the development of the 10-Year Plan.

Further updates will follow in the coming weeks as the engagement period comes to a close.

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Get Involved with the CHAT Programme at Luneside & Rosebank Bowling and Recreation Club
Luneside & Rosebank Bowling and Recreation Club is inviting local residents to take part in the Communities Healthy and Active Together (CHAT) programme—an innovative initiative combining crown green bowling with off-green social activities to support both physical and mental wellbeing. Starting Thursday 1st May 2025, sessions run every week from 10am to 12pm at Fairfield Close. Whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned player, CHAT offers a fun, low-impact way to stay active, meet others, and improve overall health. Come along and see what it’s all about!

Read more on their info leaflet here

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Elevate United Football Badge Competition
Elevate United has officially launched as a new community men’s football team, evolving from CancerCare United to broaden its support for a wider range of charities and causes. While still maintaining strong ties to CancerCare, the team is now focused on enhancing wellbeing through sport, raising awareness, and supporting local communities through fundraising and engagement. To mark the launch, Elevate United is inviting the public to get involved by designing their official football badge—entries are open until 6pm on Friday, April 18th. It’s a creative opportunity for individuals, schools, and groups to contribute to the team’s fresh identity.

Keep an eye on their social media for updates and ways to get involved.

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Transpiration Wellbeing Taster Session
There’s still time to book a place on Transpiration Wellbeing’s next free taster session in Lancaster on Friday 18th April. Open to anyone who identifies under the trans+ umbrella or is exploring their gender identity, this relaxed session offers a chance to connect with nature and community through mindful sketching, learning about trees, and making your own artist’s charcoal. It’s part of a wider nature connection for wellbeing programme launching in May, supported by The LGBT+ Futures: Equity Fund.

Find out more and reserve your space via this link

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Autism Support Group for Adults in Lancaster
John, an adult diagnosed with autism later in life, has launched a local support group for others who are either awaiting diagnosis or have recently come to recognise they may be autistic. The group offers a friendly, informal space for mutual support and conversation, with no pressure to speak—just listening can be helpful too.

Saturday morning sessions take place at The Judge and Dragon, St George’s Quay, Lancaster (entry via the back door, tea and coffee provided but the bar will be closed) on the following dates:

• Saturday 12th April, 10am
• Saturday 26th April, 10am
• Saturday 10th May, 10am
• Saturday 24th May, 10am

Midweek evening meetings are held at Positive Futures, White Cross (located behind the old Adult College building) on:

• Tuesday 15th April, 7pm
• Tuesday 29th April, 7pm
• Tuesday 7th May, 7pm
• Tuesday 13th May, 7pm

All adults who relate to the experience of discovering or exploring autism later in life are welcome. For more details, contact: [email protected]

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Stay Connected with Your Integrated Care Community (ICC)
Integrated Care Communities (ICCs) are integrated teams of health and care workers, third sector organisations, statutory organisations and wider community assets. We work together with the aim to improve physical & mental health outcomes, promote wellbeing and reduce health inequalities. 

In the Lancaster District we have 3 ICCs, Lancaster, Bay and Carnforth. Each hosts a monthly online networking meeting which is a great opportunity to meet new partners, find out what is happening locally and share updates of your own.  Each ICC also has a Facebook page and a monthly newsletter that goes out far and wide. 

If you aren’t available to go along to a meeting but have something to share – don’t worry! Jenny, our Community Health Officer, attends each ICC and is very happy to update the meeting on your behalf – sharing items of news or events that are coming up.  

Contacts for each of the ICC’s are below. 

Lancaster ICC – Sarah Baines (development lead) – [email protected] / Lorraine Ducket (ICC admin) – [email protected]  

Bay ICC – Anji Stokes (development lead) – [email protected]  / Amy Dawson (ICC admin) – [email protected]  

Carnforth ICC – Hayley Clarke  (development lead) – [email protected]  / Janette Wright (ICC admin) –  [email protected]

Contact Jenny Reddell, Community Health Officer for LDCVS, at [email protected]
View the health coaching flyer

Placemaking with Young Adults 
Young adults aged between 18-30 can help shape the future of the Lancaster District through a series of placemaking workshops. By providing their input into the urban planning process and Local Plan Review, participants will help design a future that reflects their needs and aspirations.

Events taking place this spring and summer include WALKshops around potential development sites, a future vision workshop, and a policy co-design opportunity.

Find out more about the workshop series and book a place

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Healthwatch Lancashire Webinars for Parents
These sessions will help parents to find out more about Childline, a partnered service from the NSPCC. Childline is a free 24/7 service for children and young people up to the age of 19. During the sessions, parents will learn more about what Childline is, the resources available for parents and confidentiality.

The session will be delivered twice:

May 6, 1pm – 1:30pm, online (book your place)
May 7, 6pm – 6:30pm, online (book your place)

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Creative Fun at Indigo Arts & Crafts – Free for Eligible Families this Easter!
Indigo Arts & Crafts is hosting an inspiring second week of Easter holiday activities from 14–17 April, packed with creative fun including pottery, painting, slime-making, baking, and nature trails. As part of Lancaster City Council’s Healthy Active Holidays programme (HAF), children who receive benefits-related free school meals can attend completely free of charge.

These sessions are a brilliant way for kids to get active, make new friends, and enjoy a nutritious meal each day. Funded places must be booked using a HAF voucher code, so check your email or text for details from your child’s school. Paid places are also available for other families. Don’t miss out on this joyful and inclusive week of creativity!

Find out more and how to book

See the event poster here

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Creative Easter Holiday Programme – Free for Eligible Young People (Aged 14–16)
This exciting, no-cost opportunity is open to young people aged 14 to 16 who are refugees, asylum seekers, HKBN(O) visa holders, part of the Homes for Ukraine or Chagossian schemes, or have care experience.

Running during the Easter holidays, the programme includes hands-on workshops in pottery, collage, filmmaking, virtual reality, branding, and football. A free lunch will be provided each day, and a coach will be available from the train station for those who need transport.

Reserve your place here
See their information leaflet here

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Campus in the City  
Join Lancaster University for two FREE fun-packed days of hands-on activities, mind-blowing discoveries, and fascinating research!  

Fun for all the family this Easter school holidays, including:  

• Crack a crime as a junior detective  
• Build a games console and explore eye-tracking games  
• Experience AI-powered Shadowplay and VR  
• Beatbox to see how your tongue works
• Get creative with bubbles, clay and more!  

These events will take place: Friday 11 April – More Music, Morecambe and Saturday 12 April – The Storey and the Gregson Centre, Lancaster, 10.30am to 4pm each day.  

 See all events and download the programme  

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Volunteer It Yourself
VIY challenge young people to learn trade and employability skills by helping to fix local community spaces and places in need of essential repairs and improvements.

They work with people who are disengaged or excluded from mainstream education and training, at risk of disengagement, and/or unemployed.

Young people are mentored by professional tradespeople and can gain Entry Level City & Guilds accreditations, as well as access to further training, work-readiness and employment opportunities.

To find out more about their work, visit their website, or download a presentation given at a recent Children & Young People Multi-Agency Partnership Meeting.

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National Youth Work Census
The National Youth Agency is inviting youth sector organisations across England to participate in the National Youth Sector Census, a crucial survey providing comprehensive data on youth work in the UK. The Census helps inform policy, funding decisions, and the development of youth services, including initiatives like Young Futures Hubs and the Safer Streets Mission. With over 2,100 organisations participating so far, the Census is a key tool in advocating for greater investment in young people’s services. Organisations can submit their responses via Youth Work One and help drive future positive outcomes for the youth sector.

Learn more about the census

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Lancashire Mind Youth Advisory Group
Lancashire Mind are recruiting across the county for young people aged 14-18 to get involved with a new Youth Advisory Group. Their aim is that Youth Advisors lead with the feedback and evaluation of their services for young people as well as becoming a part of focus groups within the organisation.

Young people will be given practical training to build key skills in mental health, leadership, and will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience of coproduction and service design in a leading mental health charity.

Anyone interested in taking part can find out more and apply here

Become a Volunteer Citizen Journalist for THRIVE
Are you interested in writing articles for publication? Would you like to contribute to making our local food system, healthier, fairer and more equal?

How about becoming a volunteer Citizen Journalist for THRIVE, FoodFutures’ quarterly magazine!

The THRIVE team are looking to skill up people interested in becoming citizen journalists and contributing to the future direction of the magazine. You’ll be supported in building your writing skills, and have the chance to get articles published.

To support this there will be a day of training on 10 May 2025 (10:00 – 17:00) at the Cornerstone in Lancaster. This will cover an intro to citizen journalism, finding a good story, doing interviews well and putting an article together (including writing style, imagery and layout). Lunch will be provided and booking is essential.

Please fill out this form for a place on the training.

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Nature’s Blueprint One Small Thing Event
Nature’s Blueprint CIC are focused on reconnecting people with nature in order to find innovative & impactful approaches for a healthier, sustainable planet and society. They aim to create a network of people who have the resources, tools and support to inspire and activate meaningful change not just within their own lives but within their local communities, organisations & environment.

One Small Thing, their spring event, takes place at Leighton Hall on 9 May, featuring individual and group coaching activities, reconnection with nature, delicious food, and access to the Nature’s Blueprint network, all focused on helping you to discover one small thing you can do to respond to the crises we face today.

Tickets £150 (self funded or charitable organisation), £75 low income (self-declared). Three fully funded tickets are also available.

Find out more

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Spring into Action Events- A Celebration of Local Food and Community
FoodFutures is inviting communities across the Lancaster District to get involved in Spring Into Action 2025, a vibrant week of events from 25 April to 2 May. This series of workshops and activities is designed to inspire action towards a healthier, fairer, and more resilient local food system.

From practical gardening sessions and community mapping to foraging walks, creative workshops, and even a grief circle, the programme offers something for everyone. With food-themed events, skill-sharing opportunities, and spaces for reflection and connection, it’s a chance to learn, engage, and support local food initiatives.

Exploring Food Ladders: Strengthening Local Food Security
Local food organisations and community members are invited to Exploring Food Ladders as an Approach to Food Security on Wednesday 30 April at Cornerstone Café, Lancaster. Led by Dr Megan Blake, creator of the Food Ladders model and Senior Lecturer at the University of Sheffield, this event will introduce a practical, evidence-based tool for addressing food insecurity and building community resilience.

Attendees will have the chance to ask questions, share insights, and explore how the model is already being used locally. The evening will also include a serving of delicious, locally cooked food.

Spring Into Action: Recommoning Think Tank
As part of the Spring Into Action programme, a Recommoning Think Tank will take place on Friday 2 May at the Friends Meeting House in Lancaster. This community session invites participants to explore the idea of “recommoning”—the process of reclaiming shared resources like land, knowledge, and services for the benefit of all.

Rooted in the history of land rights and the commons, this discussion will delve into how these principles can shape a fairer and more resilient local food system in North Lancashire. A shared meal will be provided, and all are welcome to contribute their perspectives.

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Job Opportunities in the FoodFutures Partnership
There are three paid job role opportunities linked to FoodFutures

• Crop-share and sales coordinator
• Community Cooking Coordinator
• Gather North Lancs Food Hub Coordinator

For information on the above roles follow this link, or see our jobs section below.

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RENEW – A Weekend of Sustainable Fashion at The Storey Gallery
The Sewing Café Lancaster presents RENEW, a three-day event celebrating sustainable fashion, creativity, and community. Hosted at The Storey Gallery, the event promises an inspiring programme across the weekend. All are welcome to attend, with no need to book. Visitors are encouraged to bring items for the clothes swap, and anyone interested in volunteering over the weekend is invited to get in touch with the organisers directly.

Event Dates & Times:

• Thursday 24th April 2025 – 6:00pm to 8:45pm
• Friday 25th April 2025 – 2:00pm to 8:45pm
• Saturday 26th April 2025 – 11:00am to 4:00pm

Find out more about this event

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Join the Plot’s veg box scheme: June-October 2025 
Are you passionate about eating organic, local, and seasonal food?  

Do you want a direct relationship with those who grow your food, and share the season’s risks with them?  

The Plot is looking for 40 people to join its crop-share scheme this growing season. Read the Plot’s latest column explaining the Community Supported Agriculture model and its benefits (including the opportunity to add extras from Gather each week).  

Joining the veg box scheme will help build a network of local growers around the Lancaster District.  

Read more and join  

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Map your local community  
The Closing Loops project is inviting local communities to map two areas of Lancaster: The Ridge and the Marsh / Freeman’s Woods. Everyone living or working in Lancaster is invited to share sketches or quick drawings that will be used in the map, and to attend two mapping workshops during Spring into Action week on Freeman’s Woods Meadow on Saturday and Sunday 26 & 27 April, 11am-3pm and at the Ridge Community Centre on Monday 28 April, 12-3pm.  

Join in or attend an event  

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The Bay – April Foraging and Outdoor Cooking Sessions
The Bay is running a programme of foraging and outdoor cooking sessions based from Greenfingers Allotments in Heysham. These will be starting on Wednesday 16th April and running each week 11am-1pm for 5-weeks.

Some weeks you will cook a meal together for lunch, other weeks you will focus on different aspects of foraging, food growing and the stories that connect us with nature.

The Bay can offer support including refunding travel expenses up to £8 a session, and a phone call introduction or 1-1 site visit before you start to answer any questions.

To sign up please fill out The Bay’s online referral form and add ‘foraging course’ under ‘What do you hope to gain by attending nature and wellbeing sessions?’

Please feel free to get in touch with Alex at [email protected] with any questions.

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Spring Into Action with FoodFutures 
FoodFutures invites individuals and organisations across Lancaster District to take part in Spring Into Action. This week-long series of workshops, talks, and hands-on activities explores ways to build a healthy, resilient, and fair local food system. Events include facilitation training, community mapping, farm tours, cooking workshops, and even a grief circle to reflect on environmental loss. Whether you’re passionate about food justice, sustainability, or community action, there’s something for everyone. 

Spring into action takes place between 25 April – 2 May 2025 

Bury Your Pants: a Fashion Revolution event 
Bury Your Pants is a joint project with Closing Loops and Lancaster Sewing Cafe that builds on the Sewing Cafe’s Interwoven event in 2024. 

As part of Fashion Revolution Week, the Bury Your Pants project will be officially launched during the event. Attendees will be invited to take part in the project to explore the health of their soil or compost bin by burying a small item of worn out clothing in some soil or a compost bin. Healthy soil with a lively food web will munch through pants in six to ten weeks depending on the time of year… 

Date: 24 – 26 April.  
Venue: The Gallery, The Storey Institute, Meeting House Lane, Lancaster 

Growing Food Growing Community: Intro to Facilitation and Sociocracy 
Join Anna and Jay from FoodFutures on this fascinating workshop that will explore tools for supporting good facilitation whilst introducing the basics of sociocracy. Sociocracy offers a decision making framework and processes that seek to support dynamic, inclusive and productive meetings that make decisions by consent. It’s based on the idea that people who work together are best able to make decisions for themselves. 

Good facilitation and sociocracy are key to supporting the workings of FoodFutures, and in supporting innovative, horizontal, decision making processes. This session should offer some tools and inspiration to support you in enhancing the quality of meetings, decision making and governance of your community project. 

Date & time: Friday 25 April 2025 10am – 3pm 
Location: St Thomas Church, Room 1, Marton St, Lancaster, LA1 1XX. 

Find out more here 

Spring Into Action: Farm on the Fell Tour 
Meet Lisa and Michael on their ‘cow with calf dairy’. 
Michael and Lisa are third-generation farmers. They run a small family farm in the Forest of Bowland in Lancashire, producing raw milk, pasture-fed beef, and pork (not to mention delicious gelato from their on-site vending machine). They are regular suppliers of raw milk and pork for Gather, the online North Lancs Food Hub. 

They took over the running of the family dairy farm in 2013 expanding the herd to 180 cows by 2020 working all hours and pushing the cows to get the litres from them. It seemed to them, the only ‘person’ benefiting, was the supermarket who they sold our milk to and decided to farm a different way and turned to regenerative agriculture. 

Enjoy a ‘behind the scenes’ tour of their farm and hear Michael and Lisa’s story first-hand with a chance to buy some delicious produce from their vending machine. 

Date & time: Saturday 26 April, 14:30 – 16:30. 
Location: Farm on The Fell, Bleasdale, Preston, PR3 1UT. 

Discover more about this event 

Find out more about Spring into Action here 

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F2F Forest Garden Relaunch – A Community Invitation 
The Fork2Fork Forest Garden is hosting a Meet & Greet on April 24th and 27th, 2025 (11am – 3pm) at Wyresdale Road, Lancaster. This event offers an opportunity for the community to explore the garden, share ideas, and contribute to its future development. Attendees can enjoy tea and cake, nature-inspired activities, a quiz, and face painting on Sunday. The event aims to bring people together to connect with nature, foster community spirit, and encourage participation in this evolving green space. 

Location: F2F Forest Garden, Wyresdale Rd, Lancaster LA1 3EA (next to the brewery) 

Contact: [email protected]  

For further information click here 

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Call for Local Green Spaces 
Your help is needed to identify areas of Local Green Space across the district. 
Access to a network of high quality open spaces and opportunities for sport and physical activity is important for health and the wellbeing of communities. The designation of land as Local Green Space through local plans allows communities to identify and protect green areas of particular importance to them. Planning policies for managing development within Local Green Spaces are consistent with Green Belts and therefore the level of protection afforded through designation is high. Local Green Spaces can only be designated when a Plan is being prepared or updated.  

The call for Local Green Spaces will run to Monday 28 July 2025.    

Further information can be found on the Council website:  Local Plan Review Hub 

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Conservation Area Appraisal for Yealand Conyers and Redmayne  
Lancaster City Council are conducting a Conservation Area Appraisal (CAA) for Yealand Conyers and Redmayne.

CAAs are key documents that highlight the unique qualities (significance) of a conservation area, identify potential threats to its character and appearance, assess the area’s boundary, and serve as a foundation for its ongoing management. 

If you have an interest in Yealand Conyers and Redmayne, they invite you to share your views. 

Have your say 

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Spring into Action 
From Friday 25 April to Friday 2 May FoodFutures is coordinating a series of workshops and events that invites people and organisations across Lancaster District to ‘Spring into Action’ around creating a thriving local food system that is healthy, resilient, and fair.  

From practical hands-on cooking, foraging and growing workshops to farm tours, scheming, craft activities and skill sharing, there is hopefully something that will interest you. 

Keep your eyes peeled for the full programme of events on the FoodFutures website… (coming very soon). 

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The Plot’s Crop-Share: June-October 
The Plot is looking for 40 people to join its crop-share scheme this growing season. 

Are you passionate about eating organic, local, and seasonal food? 

Do you want a direct relationship with those who grow your food, and share the season’s risks with them? 

Join this year’s crop-share and help build a network of local growers around the Lancaster District. Produce is grown outside at Old Holly Farm near Garstang and in two polytunnels at White Lund in Morecambe, all within eight miles of Lancaster Town Hall. 

Read more and join 

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Wild Into Words – Nature Writing with Mark Cocker
Nature lovers and aspiring writers have a unique opportunity to connect with the wild and refine their craft with multi-award-winning nature writer, Mark Cocker. Taking place at Leighton Moss in July, these special events include:

Wild Into Words: A Guided Walk with Mark Cocker – Friday, 4th July
Wild Into Words: A Nature Writing Masterclass – Saturday, 5th July

Participants can explore the landscape with Mark Cocker and gain insights into his approach to nature writing. These events are expected to sell out quickly, so early booking is recommended.

Book now:
Guided Walk
Writing Masterclass

Please note, tickets must be booked separately for each event.

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‘Your Pots – Your Say’ 2024: Stories from the Pots of Possibility Voting Day
Take a look at this inspiring short film by the Lancaster Film Initiative that captures the community spirit of voting for the Pots of Possibility fund. The video highlights the “Your Pots – Your Say” event, where local residents decided which projects should receive funding to improve North Lancashire’s economy and community. With eleven local charities bidding for up to £10,000 in funding, this participatory budgeting model gives the community a real say in how charity funds are allocated. Watch the film to see the impact of local voting in action.

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Insect Wildlife Wanders – Free Walks
Over the past two years, Rob Zloch and Belinda Nixie have been leading insect wildlife wanders, workshops and talks for organisations such as North Lancashire Wildlife Group, U3A, and The Bay: A Blueprint for Recovery. Rob and Belinda want to awareness of and love for insects and to spread the word about their worth as individual species and as part of our ecosystem.

Insects are in spectacular decline and England is one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world. They are fascinating in form and function and they are wildlife that we can all observe and study all around us – in our own gardens, in any park, hedgerow or verge. Along with plants, insects are key to every terrestrial food chain and so their overall success or failure affects all other wildlife.

If you’d like to organise a walk at no charge to your group or project, to help get more people interested in and noticing insects or participating in citizen science projects, contact Belinda at [email protected] or Rob at [email protected]

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Growing Food & Community Sessions Return in 2025!
Join a series of workshops during 2025, covering all aspects of local food growing, from site design to how to set up your project, from seed saving to propagation, from beekeeping to chutney making!

The sessions provide a useful starting point for anyone considering setting up a local community growing space or thinking of growing your own.

You can now book the spring sessions.

Book onto a session today

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Closing Loops Ideas Generation Workshops
Over the next two months, local democracy group Deliberate will be holding idea generation workshops in the areas of Lancaster District where there have been less community projects.

To shape these workshops, Deliberate want to hear from you about what you would like to see where you live.

The question is simple:

Imagine a future where our economy looks after our communities and restores the environment. What would you like to see in your local area?

Deliberate is supported by the Pots of Possibility fund and these workshops will directly shape how we fund projects going forwards so do share your views and vote on other people’s ideas by visiting pol.is and getting involved!

Festa Italia
Lancaster BID is proud to once again support Festa Italia, bringing a vibrant celebration of Italian culture to the heart of the city. Back for a second year is Serenading in the Square on Saturday 24th May at 7.30pm—a lively evening of music in Market Square featuring three fantastic acts to set the tone for the main event.

Festa Day kicks off on Sunday 25th May from 10.30am, with Italian vehicles arriving and live entertainment starting at 11.00am. Expect a full day of delicious street food, music, displays, and all things Italian.

Keep up to date with the festival’s events

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Open Mic Night at the Gregson
The Gregson Community & Arts Centre are holding an Open Mic evening with karaoke and dancing designed specifically for people with additional needs. The events are run throughout the year with the next taking place on Friday 11 April (tonight) in the Oliver Bar 6-8pm. Dress up as your favourite artist, everyone is welcome!

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Carnforth Easter Events
Come to Carnforth Civic Hall where there will be several fun, Easter themed activities: 

• Egg Painting 

• Animal Petting 

• Face Painting 

• Egg Hunt 

• Crafts Decor 

£3 admission for adults and kids go free when accompanied by an adult 

Time and Date: 21^st of April 2025, 10am – 4pm 

Location: Carnforth Civic Hall, North Road, Carnforth LA5 9LJ 

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Cross Bay Walk – The Olive Branch 
Fancy a spring adventure?!  Join a Cross Bay Walk in aid of The Olive Branch! 

The Olive Branch is an independent charity providing a food bank and support service in Lancaster, for people suffering distress caused by factors such as addiction, homelessness, debt, job loss, broken relationships, poor health, or seeking asylum. 

They will be walking from Arnside to Grange-over-Sands, a stunning 7–10 mile walk led by the King’s Guide from The Guide Over Sands Trust, Michael Wilson. 

They are asking, where it is possible, for people to try and raise a further £40 in sponsorship. 

Time and Date: Saturday 3rd May 2025, 9.15 AM registration 

Tickets: £20 per person and £2 for dogs 

Find out more and book your place 

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Family Fun Day at Morecambe Fire Station
Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service invites the community to a family-friendly open day at Morecambe Fire Station. Visitors can meet local firefighters, explore the fire engine and Aerial Ladder Platform, and enjoy live demonstrations including road traffic collision rescues and kitchen fire safety. With face painting, food stalls, and plenty of hands-on activities, it promises to be a fun and educational day for all ages. The event will also raise funds for The Firefighters Charity and Friends of Langridge Community Group, with both cash and contactless donations welcome.

Morecambe Fire Station on Saturday 17th May, 10am to 3pm.

Find out more here

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Easter Craft Fair at Heysham Heritage Centre
The much-loved Easter Craft Fair at Heysham Heritage Centre is just around the corner! Held in the cosy but characterful space at 24 Main Street, Heysham, LA3 2RW, this annual event showcases a delightful mix of locally made crafts, gifts, and treats. Open from 11am–3:30pm across the Easter weekend—Good Friday through to Easter Monday—it’s the perfect place to browse unique handmade items and support local makers. Pop in and soak up the creative atmosphere!

See the event Facebook post

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Free Easter Activities at the Police Museum  
Join in for some case-cracking family fun at Lancashire Police Museum! Hop around the museum and search for clues in the Easter egg hunt and dig out your thinking caps with their egg-cellent quiz. PLUS they are having a free merch give away on Good Friday! Win a free pen, ruler or key fob when you find all the hidden eggs (subject to availability).  

Over the holidays, the museum will be open from 10.30 am to 4.00 pm (closed between 12.30 pm – 1.30 pm) on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

 Location: Lancaster Castle, Castle Park, Lancaster, LA1 1YN  

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Lancaster District Male Voice Choir  
LDMVC 2025 have provided a list of their upcoming singing events, including: 

• Sat 10th May; Arndale Centre, Morecambe at 11am  
• Sat 12th July; Ballroom, Royal Station Hotel, Carnforth at 3pm  
• Sat 27th Sept; Garstang Library at 2.30pm  
• Sat 11th Oct; AUTUMN CONCERT with Lacuna Singers at St Thomas’s Church, Penny Street, Lancaster at 2.30pm  
• Sat 29th Nov; Xmas event, Lancaster Library at 11am  
• Sat 9th Dec; Xmas event, Arndale Centre, Morecambe at 11am  
• Sat 13th Dec; XMAS CONCERT, Lancaster Methodist Church, Scotforth Rd, Lancaster at 2pm  
• Sat 20th Dec; Xmas Event, St Nics Arcade, Lancaster at 11am  

 The choir will also be giving singing events to the residents of Eric Morecambe House, Torrisholme, Dolphinlee Home, Ridge Estate and Nazareth House, Lancaster. Further small events could take place in other locations such as Lancaster Library.   

For more information please contact Chas Matthews on 07846 409825 or Paul Rasmussen on 07811 865556  

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A Pint of Theology – Monthly Discussion Group 
Held at The Gregson in Lancaster, A Pint of Theology is a free monthly discussion group exploring theology from diverse perspectives. Open to atheists, agnostics, and believers alike, it offers a safe space for challenging theological ideas and discussing their relevance in a postmodern world. Led by Innes Heron-Stamp, a queer Christian and conversion therapy survivor, the group operates under Inclusive Church policies promoting equality and nondiscrimination.  

Sessions run on the second Tuesday of each month from 7:30 to 8:30 pm, and attendees can simply turn up to join the conversation. 

Find out more about this series of events 

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King Street Studios Upcoming Exhibitions 
Colour and Form Exhibition – Lancaster Library 
From 10th to 29th April, Lancaster Library hosts Colour and Form, an exhibition showcasing the work of teenagers and adults exploring acrylic painting for the first time. The project, designed to build confidence and creativity, encourages participants to experiment with techniques and composition. Made possible through Crowdfund Lancashire, this inspiring exhibition highlights the power of artistic expression. 

Find out more about the project here 

Curiosities – A Solo Exhibition by Kate Eggleston-Wirtz 
Step into a world of wonder at Curiosities, a solo exhibition by artist Kate Eggleston-Wirtz, running from 16th–26th April (closed Easter Sunday) at

Showcasing 20 years of 3D sculptural assemblages crafted from found and symbolic materials, this selling exhibition also includes new works alongside illustrated prints and cards. Visitors can meet the artist in residence daily from 11am–5pm, offering a unique chance to explore the power of objects, art, and creativity in an intimate gallery setting. 

Discover more about upcoming events with King Street Arts

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Good Things Collective Open House Weekend 
The Good Things Collective will be holding their next open house weekend which is coming up in April! They would like to invite you to come and visit their studios to get a taste of what they do there at GTC. There’ll be plenty of fun things to do for all ages and you’ll get a sneak peak at some exciting new things planned for the rest of the year. More details will follow but for now make sure to save the date – April 18 & 19   

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Wise Up Workshops Events & Activities

The Jungle Book
Little Theatre Company by the Sea presents The Jungle Book with School Musicals Co and Wise Up Youth Theatre.

28 June (6.30pm) and 29 June (3pm)

Book tickets by calling The Platform on 01524 582803

Gaming Together
For all up to age 16 (under 12s must be accompanied by an adult), these sessions bring gamers together to build confidence, friendship and connection.

Monthly on the first Saturday, 5pm – 7:30pm at Middleton Village Hall LA3 3LG.

£2, including hotdogs, drinks and snacks.

Lifewise
Young people aged 14 – 25 can learn new skills from cooking to map-reading, from event planning to mental health support.

Every second Wednesday, 6pm – 8pm.

Call 07506 295782 for further information

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Better Than the Alternative – Creative Ageing Symposium
The Dukes Theatre, Lancaster invites you to a 2-day Creative Ageing Symposium on 30th April & 1st May 2025, bringing together creative practitioners, health professionals, and academics to challenge stereotypes and explore the power of creativity in later life. The event will feature keynote speakers, interactive workshops, panel discussions, performances, and networking opportunities, all focused on making creative ageing more meaningful and impactful. Part-funded by the National Lottery Community Fund, tickets are available at a subsidised rate.

Dates: 30th April & 1st May 2025
Location: The Dukes Theatre, Lancaster

1st -day tickets available – Book here
2nd -day tickets available – Book here

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Art Classes at the Rainbow Centre
Do you have a creative side and are looking for an outlet to unleash it? The Rainbow Centre, Morecambe is running a member facilitated art session with Leighanne to include a number of artistic mediums including pastels, watercolours, acrylics and more. If you are interested in attending these sessions pleased speak to Paul or Dawn at the Rainbow Centre.

Dates & times: Wednesdays, 10am-12pm (started February 12^th).
Location: Rainbow Centre Morecambe, Clarence St., Morecambe.

View their event advert on Facebook.

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Lancaster & Morecambe Pride Event Feedback Request
Lancaster and Morecambe Pride 2025 is inviting you to share your thoughts and help shape this year’s events. The team is seeking feedback from both LGBTQIA+ community members and allies on past experiences, future attendance plans, and suggestions for enhancing the Pride celebrations—from live music and community stalls to a broader week-long programme of events. Your input on what benefits Pride events bring to our community is invaluable.

Please take a few moments to complete this survey and help us make Pride 2025 even bigger and better.

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Coffee and Connect One Stop Shop 
This is a chance for people to drop in and connect with others in a warm and friendly environment where they can get practical advice on:  

• Housing 
• Employment 
• Parenting/ Triple P Advice 
• Emotional Health & Wellbeing 
• Relationships 

Hot drinks and snacks are provided and there are toys to keep little ones entertained! 

Time and Date: Every third Friday of the month, 1PM – 3PM (Term time only) 
Location: Lune Park Family Hub, Ryelands Park, Owen Road, Lancaster, LA1 2LN 

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Free Tennis and Pickleball Open Day 
Lancaster Tennis Club are holding a FREE Tennis and Pickleball Open Day for families and adults. 

It’s especially aimed at families and juniors, but adults are equally welcome. All standards are catered for including beginners or people who haven’t played since school. And there will also be a chance to try the fast-growing game of Pickleball.  

They offer a full programme of after-school and Saturday junior tennis coaching for all ages from 4 years old up, as well as adult coaching for beginners and intermediate players.  

Time and Date: Saturday April 12^th, 11am to 1pm 

Location: 17 Lune Road, LA1 5QU

Crop-share & Sales Coordinator with LESS
This role oversees the efficient packing and fulfilment of organic vegetable orders while managing the administrative and customer service aspects of the crop-share scheme and wider sales. The role calls for a highly organized individual who can balance hands-on vegetable packing at the farm and skill-sharing with FarmStarter trainees while also maintaining accurate digital records, responding to customer enquiries, and ensuring smooth operations throughout the week.

Salary: £28,523 per annum pro rata
Contract: 15 hours per week from 15 May until 15 November 2025
Closing Date: 16 April 2025

Find out more and apply

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Fundraising Assistant – Cancer Care 
This role will work across the whole Fundraising and Marketing team, providing administrative and operational support with both offline and digital fundraising initiatives. You will communicate with Cancer Care’s supporters, assist with events and help to maintain the fundraising database which allows them to maximise fundraising opportunities. 

Salary: £15,238 per annum 
Contract: 24 hours, to be worked ideally across 4/5 days, permanent 
Location: Lancaster with travel around the geographical area 
Closing Date: Monday 28^th  April 2025 

Find out more and apply 

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Store Manager – British Heart Foundation
The British Heart Foundation is looking for a passionate and driven Store Manager to lead their Lancashire team. This hands-on role involves managing store performance, driving sales through digital and physical channels, and motivating an inclusive team to meet targets. If you thrive in a fast-paced, customer-facing environment and want to make a real difference by funding life-saving research, this could be the perfect opportunity.

Salary: £25,279 per year + benefits
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Location: Lancashire (On-site)
Closing date: 21 April 2025 at 23:30

Find out more about this role and apply

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Global Link & FoodFutures – Community Cooking Co-ordinator 
Global Link and the Closing Loops project is looking for someone with a passion for good food and community organising to join the team in the role of Community Cooking Coordinator. Working closely with the Closing Loops Food and Chef Network coordinator this role will focus on coordinating a series of cooking workshops across the seasons and hosting pop-up community meals that showcase agroecologically produced, local, seasonal food.  

Salary: Annual salary of £10,432.20 (14.33/hr) with 5% pension contribution 
Contract: 14 hours a week to be worked flexibly; some weekend and evening work will be required.  
Location: Lancaster 
Closing date: 9.00 am April 23rd      
Interview date: May 8th 
Starting date: June 1st (or sooner) 

Job details can be downloaded from www.globallink.org.uk from April 2nd. Apply by email to [email protected]  

Find out more about this role and apply 

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Engagement Officer – Lancaster & District Homeless Action Service 
Lancaster & District Homeless Action Service (LDHAS) is hiring a part-time Engagement Officer to support homeless and vulnerably housed individuals in accessing accommodation and essential services. The role involves triaging clients, coordinating support with professionals, managing facilities, and maintaining community relations. Strong communication and motivational skills are essential.  

Salary: £18,556.20 per year 
Contract: 22.5 hours per week, with pension and leave benefits 
Location: LDHAS’s day centre 
Closing date: 17 April 2025 
Interview date: 28 April 2025 

Find out more about this role and apply 

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Environmental Youth Worker at Global Link  
The Blue Mentor will work as part of a wider network to engage with young people (ages 10 – 14) in schools and the wider community to enable environmental youth social action.  

This is a fixed term contract for 18 months starting on June 1st, starting by shadowing the current Blue Mentor. Weekly hours will be between 8 – 16, working primarily in youth settings.

Salary: £27,493 – £30, 290 pro rata + 5% pension contribution  
Contract: 8 – 16 hours per week to be worked flexibly, 18-month fixed term contract  
Location: Lancaster  
Closing Date: 30th of April, 9am 

Find out more about this role and apply 

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Crop-Share and Sales Coordinator at Less 
The Plot is looking for a seasonal Crop-share and sales coordinator to join the team from May to October. The purpose of this role is to oversee the efficient packing and fulfilment of organic vegetable orders while managing the administrative and customer service aspects of the crop-share scheme and wider sales. 

Salary:  Pro-rata for 15 hours per week for six months, £5705  
Contract: 15 hours per week. A six-month fixed term contract, May-October 2025  
Location: The Plot (Old Holly Farm and White Lund) and other growing sites within the Lancaster District  
Closing Date: 16th of April  
Interview Date: 24th of April.  

Read more and apply  

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Kentown Family Support Worker – Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity  
The Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity are looking to appoint a Kentown Family Support Worker to deliver a high-quality family support service as part of the pilot Kentown Children’s Palliative Care Programme, in collaboration with Kentown Wizard and Together for Short Lives. Reporting to the Kentown Project Lead out of their Lancaster team base and working in partnership with health, education and social care professionals, you will take responsibility for providing needs-led emotional, social and practical support to families where a child/young person has a life threatening or terminal illness.  

Salery: £23,000 annual salary plus Company Car (additional benefit of approx. £5K), 5% employers pension contribution and 25 days annual leave.  
Contract: Full time  
Location: Carnforth, Lancashire (Hybrid), Morecambe, Lancashire, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, Lancaster, Lancashire  
Closing Date: 25th of April 2025, 9:49am  

Find out more and apply  

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Youth Group Leader (CYP) – CancerCare 
Do you have experience in managing people and projects and work with children and young people? Do you have a passion for promoting vulnerable CYP interests and creating inclusive environments?  

Salary: £10,924 (actual) 
Contract: 16 hours per week covering three evenings per week. Occasional weekends required. Daytime shifts in school holidays.  
Location: Lancaster & Morecambe 
Closing Date: Friday 11 April 2025 

To apply email your completed application form and current CV to [email protected]  

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Children’s Independent Sexual Violence Advisor at Victim Support
Victim Support is looking for a compassionate and dedicated Children’s Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (CHISVA) to provide 1-2-1 support to young survivors of sexual violence across Lancashire. This role involves delivering advocacy, emotional support, and guidance through the criminal justice process or on their personal recovery journey. The successful candidate will work closely with individuals, families, and partner agencies, ensuring access to specialist services, including counselling and pre-trial therapy. 

This role requires regular travel, and a full driving license with access to a vehicle is essential (reasonable adjustments can be considered for disabled applicants). The position offers hybrid working options, with up to two days from home. 

Salary: £26,010 – £28,050 per annum 
Contract: Full-time 
Location: Blackpool (Hybrid) 
Closing Date: 22 April 2025 at 12:48pm 

Find out more about this role and apply 

If your organisation needs support whether it be working with volunteers, completing accounts and payroll, finding funding, solving governance issues, or just want a listening ear, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team:

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Volunteering and DBS,
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