LDCVS Bulletin: 9 January 2026

 

Volunteer Reading Coaches with Read Easy
Read Easy provides free, confidential, one-to-one reading coaching for adults who want to improve their reading. In Lancaster and Low Furness, they’re looking for volunteer Reading Coaches so more local adults can get the support they’ve often missed out on and gain the skills and confidence that make everyday life easier.

As a Reading Coach, you’ll be matched with one adult Reader and meet twice a week for 30 minutes, in an agreed safe venue. You’ll use Read Easy’s phonics-based Turning Pages manuals and resources, following a clear step-by-step approach. Training is provided by Read Easy UK in four online sessions, and you’ll be supported by a local Coordinator and the wider team.

Find out more and register

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.

–

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.

–

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.

–

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.

• Safeguarding adults (level 2)
• Safeguarding children (level 2)
• GDPR compliance
• Cyber security

–

Top tips for writing a funding bid (for beginners)
This online session is designed for people who have little or no experience of writing funding applications and would benefit from some basic pointers that would help them to write successful applications for small funding pots e.g. £500 to £5,000 grants.

It will be particularly useful for small, grassroots community organisations such as sports clubs, uniformed services, church/faith groups, arts and or youth group projects. Advice given will help with applications for grant funds such The Lancaster Community Fund or Eric Wright Charitable Trust as well as other small funding pots available.

The session will be delivered by Sharon Phillips, LDCVS Development Support Officer.

At the end of the training, you will understand:

• how much detail to give to increase your chances of a successful funding application
• how to structure your answers to application questions
• how to present your budget and costings for a small funding request

The cost of the session is £5.

15 January 2026, 11am – 12:30pm, online

Find out more and book

–

Writing a compelling funding application (advanced) 
This workshop is designed for people who already have some experience of writing funding applications and would benefit from a practical session to finesse their content for larger funding applications or to develop a project Case for Support document. 

During the morning there will be an opportunity to explore the types of questions you will need to respond to for larger funding applications and how best to provide clear, concise responses that provide the detail a funder is looking for. There will also be some focus on costings and getting your budget right. 

You’ll be asked to bring examples of previous application questions you have completed, whether successful or unsuccessful and to share these with other attendees for the purpose of a peer-to-peer critique exercise. 

This session will be particularly useful for anyone considering making funding applications for over £10,000 or more.  

The session will be delivered by Sharon Phillips, LDCVS Development Support Officer. 

Saturday 24 January, 10am – 4pm, Morecambe (venue TBD) 

£15 

Find out more and book 

–

Autism Awareness
Penrith-based charity Triple A (‘All About Autism’) aims to facilitate positive and sustainable change for autistic people – to raise awareness of the issues & challenges that autistic people face, and to bring people together to create and develop solutions.

This half-day CPD-accredited training session will be delivered by autistic co-facilitators sharing their lived experiences, and aims to cover the following outcomes:

• To equip you with a practical working knowledge of autism or consolidate understanding of what autism is
• To consider communication, sensory and environmental issues linked to practice and workspaces and the impact that this has on Autistic individuals
• To introduce strategies for interacting with autistic individuals and their families
• To understand the impact of autistic overload and burnout and the impact of anxiety on presentation for an autistic person
• To know what adaptations and reasonable adjustments to make for others
• To bring real life scenarios to discuss practical solutions for your practice

21 January, 1pm – 4pm, West End Morecambe (venue TBC).

£5 members, £15 non-members.

Find out more and book

–

Really harness the power of social media 
If you’re a charity or community group, you know you need to get noticed. You want to attract volunteers, raise donations, invite supporters into your world and show the impact of your work.  

And social media can help you do all of this but only if you’re using it with clarity and intention, rather than just posting and hoping for the best. 

If you suspect you’re not quite fully harnessing the power of social media, join us for a day of focused, practical training.  

Led by Jo Doughty from Always Being Social – a social media trainer with over 25 years’ experience in marketing, including working with charities such as Cancer Research UK – this day will help you to use social media with confidence and purpose. 

Morning session: A clear, confidence-building introduction to Facebook and Instagram. You’ll learn how they work, what to post, and which features can help grow your visibility and audience. 

Afternoon session: A hands-on, creative workshop showing you how to craft Instagram Stories and Reels that bring your organisation’s work to life, inspire action, and build support. 

5 February 2026, 9:30am – 4:30pm, More Music (Morecambe LA3 1QT) 

£30 for one session, £50 for the whole day 

Find out more and book 

– 

The Importance of a Will and of Power of Attorney
Having a will allows you to protect those close to you and ensures your wishes are followed after your death, preventing any disagreements about who takes what. If you die without a will, “intestacy” will arise – this means the law decides what happens to your assets, and this can cause problems for your family and add to the costs of probate.

A Lasting Power of Attorney is a legal document that gives authority to another person to act on your behalf. It prevents a stranger, or someone you don’t trust, from having this power. Without an LPA, if you become ill and/or cannot make your own decisions, your loved ones (including your spouse or partner) must apply to a court for these powers – adding significant cost and time.

The session will be led by Nicola Combe of Morecambe Bay Wills. Advice will be impartial and based on Nicola’s personal experience (which is why she founded the company) and on that of her clients.

25 February, 6:30pm – 8pm, The Cornerstone (Sulyard Street, Lancaster LA1 1PX), free of charge.

Find out more and book

–

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) training helps create safer, fairer, and more effective communities and workplaces, as awareness of the issues involved makes people more considerate, respectful, and better equipped to work with those who are different from themselves.

This interactive session introduces the foundations of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. Participants will explore key concepts, understand how bias influences behaviour and learn practical ways to create inclusive experiences.

The session will be delivered by Roda Ogunpehin, a consultant, trainer and author with 23 years of professional experience. Her approach focuses on practical, plain English guidance that helps organisations build confidence and embed inclusion in everyday interactions.

The cost of the session is £10 to LDCVS members and £25 to non-members.

3 March, 9:30am – 12:30pm, The Cornerstone (Sulyard Street, Lancaster LA1 1PX)

Find out more and book

–

Nurturing Grassroots – Free Support for Local Organisations!  
Nurturing Grassroots is a fully funded capacity-building programme designed to support grassroots organisations to become more resilient, develop and work towards future aims and goals.   

The programme is funded for 3 years and offers tailored one-to-one support from mentors with years of not-for-profit sector experience, expert-led workshops on a range of popular topics like marketing, fundraising and demonstrating your impact, and leadership & well-being coaching. Through this range of workshops, networking opportunities and 121 support the programme aims to help organisations with common support needs like goal setting and planning, strengthening your organisation, fundraising, impact measurement, and sustainability.  

If you’re ready to get started and register for Nurturing Grassroots, they kindly ask that you complete two important steps to help them deliver the best possible support:  

1. Baseline Survey: Please take a few moments to complete their baseline survey. Your responses will provide valuable insights that will help them tailor their support to meet your organisation’s needs.  

1. Values Statement: They would also like you to review and agree to the values statement. This is an important part of aligning their shared commitment to the values that guide their work.  

If you have any questions or if anyone needs support completing the survey or values statement, please don’t hesitate to contact them at [email protected]. 

– 

Free Marketing Training for Charities Now Open 
Media Trust is offering fully funded online marketing courses to help charities strengthen their communications and reach new supporters, thanks to support from The Marketing Trust. Organisations can choose between a Marketing Essentials programme exploring how offline and digital channels work together, or an intensive Digital Marketing course designed to build practical skills and confidence. Both options are delivered by industry experts and provide hands-on learning tailored to the needs of charitable organisations. Spaces are limited and early booking is encouraged. 

Dates: multiple online workshop dates February and March 2026 | location: online via Media Trust 

Learn more and reserve your place 

– 

DWP Disability Services – Free Upskilling Sessions for the Sector 
The Disability Services Advocacy Team is inviting charities and community organisations to a new programme of free online upskilling sessions throughout January and February 2026, covering key benefits and support schemes including PIP, DLA for Children, IIDB and Access to Work. These sessions offer a practical walk-through of eligibility, the claims journey and change of circumstances guidance, alongside specialist sessions for SEND settings and appointees. Each event includes time for Q&A and aims to strengthen frontline confidence when supporting disabled people and their families. Registration is required via Eventbrite using the provided links below. 

Dates: January and February 2026 | location: online via Eventbrite 

Info and booking for January 
Info and booking for February 

– 

ACT Awareness Training for Places of Worship Now Open for Registration 
Counter Terrorism Policing North West is offering free online ACT Awareness training designed to support places of worship in strengthening safety and preparedness. Each session provides a practical introduction to the current threat landscape alongside guidance on identifying suspicious activity, responding to threats, managing suspicious items, understanding first aid essentials and accessing further security resources. Three upcoming dates are now available to book via Eventbrite. 

Dates: 12 February 2026 10.00–11.30am | 5 March 2026 10.00–11.30am | location: online sessions 

Read a factsheet on Terrorism (protection of premises) Act 2025 

– 

New Training Programme to Boost Benefits Knowledge Across the Community 
North Lancashire Citizens Advice has released its January to May 2026 training programme, offering a range of practical sessions designed to help frontline workers strengthen their support for residents navigating the benefits system. The schedule includes:  

* Universal Credit Basics on 16 January 
* Basic Benefits Navigation on 30 January 
* PIP and Attendance Allowance on 13 February 
* Benefits for Families on 13 March 

…and further repeat sessions through spring.  

Each course focuses on building confidence, improving outcomes for claimants, and equipping community professionals with clear guidance they can apply straight away. 

Find out more and reserve your place here 

Dates: January to May 2026 | location: online training via TryBooking links 

– 

PHX Training Opens New Skills Pathways for Local Learners 
PHX Training Morecambe has announced a fresh round of training pathways designed to help residents build confidence, gain qualifications and move closer to employment. Opportunities include a December Money Management course with a chance to win a tablet. Customer Service Pathway running 9 to 23 December, and a wide programme from January including Teaching Assistant, Mental Health Level 2, Introduction to Childcare and further employability routes. Additional pathways across childcare, hospitality, CSCS and customer service will follow in February and March, offering practical stepping stones into work for people across the district. 

Dates: December 2025 to March 2026 | location: PHX Training Morecambe 

If you would like further information please contact [email protected] or call 01524 748095. 

– 

Building Confident Peer Support: Online Training for VCSE Staff 
Brigstowe’s Peer Partnership is offering a series of practical online workshops for staff and volunteers who support people in peer and lived experience networks, covering workplace boundaries, group facilitation, responding to challenging behaviour, resilience in VCSE settings and co-creating services with communities. There is also a free Peer Coordinator Forum for anyone coordinating or developing peer support, offering space to share practice and swap ideas with others across the UK. 

Dates & times: 

• Boundaries in the Workplace – Tue 24 February 2026, 9:30–13:30 

• Group Dynamics and Facilitation – Thu 26 February 2026, 9:30–13:30 

• Recognising and Responding to Challenging Behaviour – Tue 3 March 2026, 9:30–13:30 

• Strengthening Resilience in the VCSE Workplace – Thu 5 March 2026, 9:30–13:30 

• Co-Creation of Support Services – Tue 10 March 2026, 9:30–15:30 

Location: online via Zoom 

– 

New World of Work QED Training  
QED Training will start the New Year (not long now) with a two-hour snappy session about the New World of Work to expect in 2026!  

In a two-hour session delivered on your Teams or Zoom platform they will:-  

• Focus on the new proactive duty to protect employees from sexual harassment, with particular reference to the EHRC’s technical guidance and 2026 updates.  

• Provide a summary of what is proposed under the Employment Rights Bill, likely 2026 timelines and how to prepare.  

• Look at future changes, including crystal balls for 2027 and 2028!  

• Cover interesting case law developments.  

Read more and get in touch via the QED Training Services site 

– 

The Marketplace and I: Accessibility Training
Dr Leighanne Higgins and Dr Killian O’Leary are lecturers are Lancaster University Management School. They research accessibility barriers facing persons living with disability in commercial and marketplace sectors.

In 2019, they began 2019 a disabled-led project entitled The Marketplace and I, which invited persons with disabilities from across the UK to create artworks representing their commercial experiences with accessibility. This resulted in 36 artworks exploring sensory, mobility and neurodivergent access experiences.

Since 2019 they have had several public exhibitions across the UK and in particular since 2022 have begun using some of the artworks to offer innovative art-based accessibility training to companies across the UK.

They are currently working with 30 companies including RSPB, National Trust, Blackpool Transport, Age Scotland, Marketing Lancashire and Lancaster City Council. 

Find out more

– 

Community CVS Business & Management Bootcamps
Leadership and Management Skills Bootcamp  
A tailored 10 week programme to help develop key management skills including:  

• Understanding Mission, Vision, and Values  
• Identify Your Leadership Style  
• Improve Your Communication Skills  
• Become an Effective Team Manager  
• Understand Coaching, Mentoring and Advice  
• Tools and Methods of Project Management  
• Understand Artificial Intelligence  

Creative Leadership & Management Skills Bootcamp 
Tailored 10 session programme for arts, culture and digital. Develop your hands-on creative leadership skills including:  

• Lead with Confidence, Clarity & Purpose
• Motivation, Mindset & Strategy
• Communication, Storytelling & Pitching
• Building & Leading Creative Teams  
• Communities of Practice & CPD  
• Tools and Methods of Project Management  
• Artificial Intelligence – Ethics & Opportunity  

Business Skills Bootcamp for Start-ups & SMEs 
Start & grow your business. Tailored 10 session programme for Lancashire business start-ups.

Develop your hands-on business skills including:  

• How to take your business from an Idea to Reality
• Market Research, Securing Contracts & Commissions
• Create a High Impact Social Media Marketing Strategy
• Building a Realistic Business Plan with SMART Goals 
• Understand Financial Planning & Legal Structures
• How to Win & Retain Customers with USPs 
• Getting Ahead with Artificial Intelligence  

For an informal chat about any of the bootcamps, and to get started, please contact the Community CVS Business & Skills Team by calling 01254 503043 or email them at [email protected]  

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.

–

Adult Social Care co-production workshop for people with lived experience
Lancashire County Council are working with SCIE (Social Care Institute for Excellence) on a pilot to strengthen co-production and equity in their commissioning approach. The insights gathered will help to develop a Co-Production Toolkit and an approach that will begin rolling out in Lancaster, before extending across the county.

The next part of the series is Exploring Co-production in Lancaster with People with Lived Experience.

Co-production brings people with lived experience and professionals together as equal partners to design and deliver services. It ensures decisions reflect real needs, builds trust, and creates better outcomes for communities. Your voice is essential in shaping how we work together in Lancaster.

You’ll explore what’s working well across Lancaster, barriers and challenges for co-production, and opportunities to integrate co-production into commissioning.

Two workshops will be held in January. An online workshop will take place on 21 January, 6:30pm – 8pm via Teams (sign up here), with an in-person workshop being held on 22 January, 10:30am – 12:30pm in Lancaster (sign up here).

A £25 Love-to-Shop voucher will be provided for everyone who attends.

–

Have your say in health protection research
The NIHR Heath Protection Research Unit in Emergency Preparedness and Response is carrying out health research help services and communities prepare for and respond better when serious health situations such as pandemics and major accidents happen.

The aim of the research is make responses fairer, faster and more inclusive for everyone.

They are looking for ten people to join their public advisory group, which will meet four to five times a year. Participants are invited to share experiences, provide feedback, and help shape research.

Anyone with an interest can join, and no experience is needed. Your time will be reimbursed by payment of £27.50 per hour plus reasonable expenses.

Apply by filling in this form, or find out more by downloading this information sheet.

Closing date for applications is 15 January 2026.

–

Healthwatch Lancashire Launches New Youth Social Media Project
Healthwatch Lancashire has launched a new project exploring how young people use social media for health advice peer support and self-understanding. The team is keen to visit local groups and sessions to hear views in a relaxed and voluntary way with all conversations kept anonymous and non-identifying. Young people and parents or carers are also invited to share their experiences through an online survey with one-to-one chats available for anyone who prefers a more informal conversation.

View the campaign poster here
Complete the Survey here

–

Swop Shop Skill Share – Making Connections: Community Ideas to Reduce Isolation
Do you feel isolated? Is isolation something you see regularly in your community? Do you support people who struggle to connect, attend activities, or feel part of what’s happening locally?

We’re excited to invite you to our very first Community Swop Shop Skill Share, taking place in the West End of Morecambe. Building on our established Swop Shop Skill Share model, this event brings together not only voluntary sector organisations but also local residents, community groups, and anyone interested in sharing ideas, experience, and practical knowledge.

27 January, 5:30pm – 7:30pm, West End Impact (Heysham Road, Morecambe LA3 1DG).

Find out more and book your place

–

Lancashire Campaign Calls on Salons to Help #NailDomesticAbuse 
Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner has launched a new countywide campaign encouraging beauty businesses to play a role in spotting and supporting those experiencing domestic abuse. #NailDomesticAbuse provides free online training created with Safenet to help salon staff recognise warning signs and confidently signpost clients to specialist support.

Campaign materials are being shared across Lancashire, aiming to create safe spaces where difficult conversations can happen and where people know how to access help when they need it. 

Explore this campaign and register for training 

–

Brew Monday: Turning Blue Monday into Connection 
Blue Monday may have a gloomy reputation, but Samaritans are once again turning it on its head with Brew Monday, encouraging everyone to connect over a cuppa instead. Taking place on Monday 19 January 2026, the campaign reminds us that feeling low isn’t confined to one day and that simple acts of listening and connection can make a real difference. Last year, over 28 local groups joined in across the district, hosting events that brought people together and highlighted support available. This year, Samaritans are inviting community groups and organisations to take part again, whether by hosting an event or sharing resources to spark conversation and connection. 

Date: 19 January 2026 

– 

NHS – Good Health Starts…Campaign  
Winter brings extra pressures for all of us – at home, at work, online, and with loved ones. Cold weather, seasonal illnesses, and the demands of daily life can take a toll on our physical and mental wellbeing.  

But small, simple actions as shown in the Good health starts… campaign can make a big difference.  

Whether you’re looking for symptom advice, mental health support, or guidance on when to seek emergency care, you’ll find everything you need right here.  

– 

Brew and You  
Feeling overwhelmed, isolated or just in need of a chat with people who get it? Why not join this weekly virtual peer support group?   

Whether you’re navigating your own mental health, supporting a child, partner or loved one, this group is for all and you can connect with others who truly understand.  

 Time and Date: Every Wednesday, 10.30am-11.30am  

Please call 01524 581280 for more information  

– 

Share Your Experience: Adult Social Care Referrals in 2025
Every referral from Adult Social Care to our sector represents a chance to make a real difference in someone’s life. We want to capture the scale and impact of this work across Lancaster District during 2025 – and your input is essential.

This year, Lancaster District CVS has been involved in a pilot with Adult Social Care through ASC Transformation Funding. Via our Social Prescribing Hub, we have provided a single point of access for four Adult Social Care teams to refer individuals to appropriate community support. This approach has not only streamlined referrals but also enabled us to build capacity within some local VCFSE organisations.

We’d like to know more about how our member organisations interact with Adult Social Care, with the aim of gathering evidence that could help us further build capacity.

The insights we gather now will help us make the case for future and extended funding, ensuring that the vital role of VCFSE organisations continues to be recognised and supported.

By completing this short survey, you’ll help us:

• Demonstrate the collective value of VCFSE organisations
• Highlight successes and challenges in supporting referred individuals
• Shape future support and resources for the sector

Please take a few minutes to complete our survey and share your experience.

Deadline: 15th January 2026

Your voice matters. Together, we can show the incredible contribution our sector makes every day – and secure the resources needed to keep making that difference.

Thank you for your time and commitment.

–

Veterans Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST)
Age UK Lancashire are opening spaces for their next Veterans CST cohort, starting in January 2026. CST is the only intervention recommended by NICE as effective in the management of mild to moderate dementia outside of medication and is an evidence-based programme with which we’ve had great success with at Age UK Lancashire. 

Download the leaflet to find out more or use the referral form

–

Talk to Us Men’s Health Matters in Lancashire 
Healthwatch Lancashire is inviting men across the county to share their voices and experiences around health and wellbeing. Following the success of their recent Women’s Health project, the team is now turning the spotlight on men’s health exploring priorities, challenges and experiences when accessing local health services. This is a valuable opportunity for men to speak openly about what matters most to them, from mental health to physical wellbeing, and help shape future support in Lancashire. All responses are anonymous and confidential, with data handled securely under the Data Protection Act 2018. 

Have your say, complete the Talk to Us Men’s Health Survey here 

– 

MS Society Lancaster & Morecambe Winter Newsletter Out Now 
The Lancaster, Morecambe & District Branch of the MS Society has released its Winter Edition newsletter, packed with seasonal updates, wellbeing advice and local stories. Highlights include winter tips for managing MS, reflections from volunteers, upcoming social events for 2026, and details of a new partnership with CancerCare offering free therapy sessions. The issue also celebrates local fundraising successes and community connections across the district. 

Read the MS Society Newsletter here 

– 

Help is Close Materials
Sarah Baines left all the Help is Close comms materials with us when she left. It would be fab if we could get this out and keep spreading the word of the campaign across the district.

We have:

• Bags for life
• Postcards
• Beermats
• Posters

If anyone has a venue that they manage and would be happy to put some materials up please do get in touch and we’ll arrange to get them to you.

Or if you are out and about and visiting people having some postcards in your bag to give to groups/individuals is always a good thing. Alternatively, if you see a venue that may be able to host materials please let us know.

Get in touch with Jenny Reddell [email protected] if you can help!

–

Growing Well Kendal Welcomes New Referrals 
Growing Well Kendal, based at Low Sizergh Farm near Kendal, is inviting new referrals to its free mental health recovery service. Set on a six-acre organic vegetable farm, the service supports adults experiencing depression, anxiety or other mental health challenges through structured horticultural activity, meaningful connection and practical recovery support. Beneficiaries attend one day a week for up to a year, with free transport available from across South Cumbria, Furness and North Lancashire – transport to the Lancaster District specifically includes a minibus on Wednedays from Morecambe, Lancaster, Carnforth and Milnthorpe. Referrals can be made directly via the Growing Well website or by contacting the team at [email protected] or give them a call on 07903 013648. 

Location: Low Sizergh Farm, Kendal, LA8 8AE 

Read their updates here 
Find out more on their information leaflet 
Click here for self-referral leaflet 

–

Coffee & Connect at Morecambe Library 
Coffee & Connect offers a warm, welcoming space for people to meet others, enjoy a cuppa, and access practical support on housing, finance, employment, parenting, emotional wellbeing, and relationships. With free hot drinks, snacks, and toys for little ones, it’s a relaxed drop-in for the whole community. 

The Coffee & Connect takes place once a month and is always the first Thursday of the month.  

Upcoming  dates are: 

• 5th February 
• 5th March  
• 2nd April 

Date & time: Every first Thursday of the month, 9.30am–11.30am 
Location: Morecambe Library, Central Drive, LA4 5DL 

Find out more here 

–

From Past to Purpose Women’s Trauma Healing Project Crowdfunder
This six-week trauma recovery programme offers free places for women in Lancashire who are rebuilding their lives after abuse and can’t afford the cost of trauma support.

The programme provides a safe, structured space for women to begin healing, rebuild confidence, and move forward with purpose. Referral routes will be available from VCFSE organisations and the police.

To find out more about how to support this programme, visit the crowdfunding page.

–

The Sketchbook Library
The Sketchbook Library project is a collaboration between Beaumont College Enterprise Students in Lancaster, and Dr Leighanne Higgins and Dr Killian O’Leary from Lancaster University Management School.

It invites disabled persons and communities to complete sketchbooks of art that explore their everyday experiences. The sketchbooks will then be displayed in a travelling library (a converted horse box) that will travel to festivals, education, and community events to help share and raise awareness of experiences of disability to the wider public.

Find out more by watching this video.

If you would like to take part in the project, or want to find out more, please contact: Leighanne Higgins – [email protected]; Killian O’Leary – [email protected] 

–

Take Part in Lancaster University Research on Language and Healthy Ageing
Researchers from Lancaster University are inviting participants aged 35 and over to take part in the BECAME project, a fascinating study exploring how language experience may influence the way our brains age. The research involves two sessions — an online interview and an in-person visit to the university’s EEG lab — and participants will receive a £45 Amazon gift card as a thank you.

To find out more or sign up, email [email protected]
Location: Lancaster University
Eligibility: Aged 35+, no history of neurological or psychiatric conditions

–

Coffee & Connect at Morecambe Library 
Coffee & Connect offers a warm, welcoming space for people to meet others, enjoy a cuppa, and access practical support on housing, finance, employment, parenting, emotional wellbeing, and relationships. With free hot drinks, snacks, and toys for little ones, it’s a relaxed drop-in for the whole community. 

The Coffee & Connect takes place once a month and is always the first Thursday of the month.  

Upcoming  dates are: 

• 5th February 
• 5th March  
• 2nd April 

Date & time: Every first Thursday of the month, 9.30am–11.30am 
Location: Morecambe Library, Central Drive, LA4 5DL 

Find out more here 

–

Keep 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 ICCs are below. 

Lancaster ICC –Lorraine Ducket (ICC admin) – [email protected]  

Bay ICC –  Amy Dawson (ICC admin) –   [email protected]

Carnforth ICC – Sue Frame (ICC admin) – [email protected]

Contact Jenny Reddell, Community Health Officer for LDCVS, at [email protected]

Free Professional Support for Local Sports Clubs
Sported is offering free tailored support to grassroots sports clubs and community organisations by matching them with skilled volunteers who share practical expertise. The programme helps clubs strengthen their foundations build sustainability and better support young people through flexible one-to-one guidance shaped around what each club needs most.

More information and sign up

–

CFS Updated Request for Support Form Now Available 
The Child and Family Service has refreshed its Request for Support form to make referrals clearer and more accessible for professionals families and parents. The updated form will be available on the service website shortly and is supported by a new service app which can be downloaded via QR code. Multiple contact routes remain in place to ensure support is easy to reach when it is needed. 
Contact details: Phone 0300 247 0040 
Website: lancschildandfamily.co.uk 
Click here for the support form 

– 

Calm Together Launches Early Support for Primary Aged Children 
Calm Together is a new community-focused service offering early bespoke support for primary aged children experiencing emotional or behavioural challenges. The team works alongside families and schools to deliver practical interventions in the home or classroom with support tailored to each child’s needs whether they are waiting for assessment on a diagnostic pathway or simply in need of extra guidance. The service aims to reduce family stress build children’s confidence and strengthen consistent approaches across school and home to support lasting positive change. 

Contact the team for more at: [email protected]  

–

Ernest Cook Trust Youth Advisory Board Opportunity
The Trust are looking for young people to join their Youth Advisory Board to help shape a bold, youth-led future for work with young people and nature. Board members will help define both the role and the direction of youth voice across the Ernest Cook Trust.

Young people will be paid to attend monthly meetings, will learn new skills and join national events, network with other young changemakers, and take part in an annual residential.

For more information and to apply, visit the Ernest Cook website.

– 

Resources with the Witherslack Group 

Sleep Resources  
Explore supportive strategies to help create a calmer bedtime routine. From building a consistent routine to creating a sensory-friendly sleep environment, learn ways to ease anxiety and support neurodivergent children and young people’s needs.  

Witherslack Group Podcast  
In the latest episode of their podcast SENsational, Teenagers and challenging behaviour, they’re joined by Mathew Bell, who has over 13 years of experience working with children and young people at WG.  

The conversation explores:  

• Practical strategies for managing routines, structure and sleep  

• Noticing changes in behaviour and understanding what they might mean  

• The importance of communication to build relationships  

Listen on Spotify  or  watch on YouTube  

– 

Support for Bereaved Students  
Ask Me: Education is a campaign built by young people, for young people, to change how bereaved students are supported in nurseries, schools, colleges and universities.  This campaign has been created because too many students are still struggling to balance grief and learning without the support they need.   

Find out more and sign  

– 

Kooth and The Diana Award Unite to Tackle Bullying 
Kooth has joined forces with The Diana Award to shine a light on the impact of bullying and to encourage young people to speak up and seek support. Their new campaign includes The Pretender, a short film inspired by real experiences shared on Kooth, and new research revealing that one in three young people being bullied suffer in silence. The partnership calls on parents, carers and communities to start more open conversations and help young people access the support they need to stay safe and well. 

Launched: November 2025 
Find out more and access resources 

– 

KoothTalks Mental Health Training Webinars 
How to Support Young People to Manage Anxiety with Self-Care  
As a professional, how can you support the rising number of young people in your care who are likely to experience anxiety?  
Join Kooth for a free 45 minute webinar and you will hear from one of their community engagement team, alongside a clinician from Kooth, who will share expert tips on how to spot the signs of anxiety, how to offer support to young people who are struggling and how Kooth can help.  
  
Find out more and sign up here.  

Smartphone Safety and Cyberbullying: How to Support Your Child  
Most 11-year-olds have a mobile phone, but do they know how to protect themselves from cyberbullying?  

 This November, Kooth are inviting parents to join them for a free 45 minute webinar. They will share practical tips on how to help children deal with potential problems, how parents can spot signs of cyberbullying and what action to take.  

Please share this link with parents and carers  

– 
New Lancaster Prop Up Project Launches 
A new Prop Up Project group has launched in Lancaster, offering weekly creative and wellbeing sessions for young people aged 13–19 who are experiencing mental health challenges or difficulties engaging with peers. The small group sessions provide a supportive space to build confidence, coping strategies and life skills through hands-on activities. Referrals are open for professionals, families and young people. 

Date & time: Mondays, 4:30–6:30pm 
Location: Barton Road Centre, Lancaster 
Contact: [email protected] or 07568 937988 

– 

Calm Together – Helping Families Navigate Big Emotions 
Calm Together offers a supportive space for families managing emotional regulation and challenging behaviour at home. The team helps parents understand the “why” behind behaviour, offering practical strategies, family workshops, and bespoke tools to build calm, connected home environments. Their compassionate approach focuses on co-regulation and emotional understanding to help children and parents thrive together. 

Contact: [email protected] 
Read the more info here 
Facebook: Calm Together – Supporting Emotional Regulation 

– 

Escape Sessions: Creative Wednesdays for Young People 
Every Wednesday evening, Escape2Make opens its doors for Escape Sessions, a free, drop-in creative space for young people aged 11–18. From stop-motion animation and t-shirt design to board games, music practice, and chill-out time with friends, there’s something for everyone – no booking required, just turn up and join the fun! A great way to relax, create, and connect midweek. 

Date & Time: Every Wednesday, 4.30pm–6.30pm 

Find out more 

–

Young Carer Support
Lancashire Young Carer Service are offering support to young carers under the age of 18 who provide regular, ongoing care and emotional support to a family member who has a disability, a long-term physical or mental health condition or misuse alcohol and/or drugs.  

For more information, or to chat anything through before referring, please don’t hesitate to get in touch by phone: 01772 641 002 or via email: [email protected]  

Find their referral form, connect with them on socials and browse helpful info here  

–

Arts4Us Research Study  
Are you a professional supporting children and young people’s mental health from any of these contexts?  

• Health and social care  
• Education  
• Arts and cultural organisations  
• Local Authorities  
• Voluntary, Community, Faith and Social Enterprises (VCFSE)  

More Music are involved in a research programme called Arts4Us, which explores the ways in which access to arts activities can be improved for children and young people (CYP) who are at risk of, or experiencing, mental health challenges.   

They are conducting a survey to explore the views of different professionals who support the mental health of children and young people about how they can improve access to arts activities.  

For more information, please contact Dr Robyn Dowlen [email protected]   

Take part in the survey  

– 

Job Club  
CAP is running a “Steps to Employment” course - friendship, community, fun, videos, group discussion, skills, motivation, encouragement, and goal setting at Stanley Road Baptist, you will also have time to access job searches online and to work on CVs. Refreshment will be provided.  

These sessions will be held weekly.

Location: Stanley Road Baptist Church, Stanley Road, Morecambe, Lancashire  
LA3 1UP  

For more info please contact Ali Demet on 07849304205 or email [email protected]   

– 

New Creative Support for Young People – Prop Up Project Launch 
SAFE is launching its Prop Up Project in Lancaster this November, offering a safe, relaxed space for young people aged 13–19 to explore creative activities, build confidence, and improve wellbeing at their own pace. Designed for those navigating life’s challenges, the project provides both group and individual activities in a friendly, pressure-free environment. Referrals are now open for the Lancaster sessions. 

Date & time: Mondays, 4:30–6:30pm 
location: Barton Road Centre, Lancaster 

View the flyer for full details here 

–

SAFE Prop-Up Project
SAFE is excited to announce the launch of their Prop Up Project in Lancaster starting from the beginning of November, Mondays 4:30pm-6:30pm at Barton Road Centre.    

As with their other Prop Up Project groups, Lancaster’s session will be open to young people ages 13-19 living in the Lancaster District who are experiencing difficulties with their mental health & other life challenges. As a result of these challenges and neurodiversity young people may find it hard to engage in group environments with peers. Their small groups (up to 10-12 young people) will combine creative activities with wellbeing & life skills topics to enable young people to practice & build coping strategies. 

Referrals are required for this group. They can also accept referrals from families or young people directly; who can get in contact with Keeley by emailing [email protected] or calling 07568937988 9-5pm Monday – Thursday.    

Click here for the referral form

–

Young Person’s Digital Skills Programme 
A new 12-week programme is launching to help young people who feel traditional education just doesn’t click. Designed by the NHS Digital Services team in collaboration with Escape2Make, Youth Voices, and global tech giants like Cisco, Amazon, and Phoenix, this course is all about creative, informal, and hands-on learning. 

The course explores how digital tech powers real NHS clinical services, get work experience, and even visit places like an Amazon Fulfilment Centre to see cutting-edge tech in action. 

Find out more 

– 

Lancashire Youth Challenge Youth Cafe  
Event and menu planning will take place during weekly ‘Time to Breathe sessions’ where the focus will be on healthy eating, seasonal produce and cooking skills.   Time to Breathe is an alternative and safe space to understand emotional well-being and develop transferable skills through nature-based education. The project, which provides young people aged 11 – 19 with opportunities to explore the local landscape, connect with the ground and seasonal cycles and develop new life skills, aims to enhance mental health, build confidence and empower young people to make positive changes in their lives.   

If you support a young person who would benefit from joining Time to Breathe, or would like to find out more about Lancashire Youth Challenge  please contact Rachel, Operations Manager at: [email protected]  

Time and Date: Mondays, 4.30pm-6.30pm  
Location: Cornerstone Building, Sulyard Street, Lancaster, LA1 1PX  

North Lancashire Is Golden Strategy Day Announced
FoodFutures is inviting partners and community organisations to take part in the North Lancashire Is Golden Strategy Day as work continues towards achieving a Gold Sustainable Food Places Award in 2026. The event will celebrate the strength of the local food system while bringing people together to explore how collective action can support a healthier more resilient and fair food future across Lancaster District. Attendees can expect shared learning meaningful connections and good food with booking essential to support sustainable catering.

Date & time: Wednesday 25 February 2026, 10am–3pm
Location: Lancaster District, venue to be confirmed

Explore more about this event and sign up

–

Winter Climate and Budget Friendly Cooking Classes
A new series of winter cooking classes is inviting local people to build confidence with affordable seasonal food while reducing waste at home. Led by chef Marina Tcaci the sessions focus on making the most of simple ingredients and sharing practical skills participants can use every day. Each session offers a relaxed hands-on experience with food to take home and recipes to recreate the dishes again.

Dates & times: Wednesday 21 January 2026, 5.30–7.30pm; Saturday 21 February 2026, 11.30am–1.30pm; Wednesday 18 March 2026, 5.30–7.30pm
Location: Various venues

Find out more and reserve your place

–

Fruit Tree and Bush Pruning Workshop
A free practical workshop is being offered for allotment holders and community growers who care for fruit trees and bushes across the district. Led by experienced facilitators the session will build confidence and skills around seasonal pruning with hands-on opportunities to practice at the right time of year. Booking is essential as places are limited and the session will take place mainly outdoors.

Date & time: Sunday 18 January 2026, 10am–12.30pm
Location: Claver Hill Community Farm, Ridge Lane, Lancaster, LA1 3JY

Find out more and reserve your place

–

Lancaster Potato Day Returns
Lancaster Potato Day is back offering a welcoming community event celebrating local growing and food culture. The day will bring together growers and residents to share knowledge explore heritage produce and connect with community food initiatives in a relaxed and inclusive setting. With free entry the event is open to everyone with an interest in food growing and sustainable local systems. There will be 25 varieties of organic seed potato & 5 organic onion set varieties on sale, seed swap, heritage fruit trees, jams & preserves, cafe, variety of community food stalls, allotment governance support with Mark Simmonds from Co-op Culture.

Date & time: Saturday 31 January, 10am–3pm
Location: Friends Meeting House, Meeting House Lane, Lancaster

Find out more about this event

–

Nature-Based Community Events Coming to Morecambe 
Eden Community Garden, in partnership with Lancaster City Council, will host two nature-based community drop-in events in January. The sessions aim to connect with residents from Poulton and the West End to share ideas and inspire local involvement in green and sustainable projects. Everyone is welcome to drop in for conversation and creativity. 

Dates & times: Monday 13 January and Tuesday 14 January, 3pm–7pm 
Locations: Rainbow Centre and More Music, Morecambe 

Find out more and book your place 

– 

Nature Connectedness – Practical Schools Handbook
The latest Nature Connectedness handbook has been released. The University of Derby’s new Nature Connection in Schools handbook distils robust evidence into an easy, do-able toolkit for educators and youth workers—covering why connection matters for wellbeing and pro-environmental behaviour, and how to embed it through simple, high-impact activities, spaces and whole-school culture. Perfect for primaries, secondaries and anyone working with children and young people.

There are also spare trees available for groups keen to plant—get in touch if you’d like some or a chat about implementing nature connectedness.

View the handbook pdf here

Eden Project Morecambe Invites the Community to Talk Nature
Eden Project Morecambe is welcoming the community this January for friendly and interactive nature sessions designed to inspire curiosity and connection across all ages. The sessions will explore pollinators invite people to shape the Bring Me Sunshine Community Garden and share what’s coming next for Eden Project Morecambe in a relaxed inclusive space that’s perfect for families and neighbours alike.

Date & time: 13 and 14 January 2026, 3.30–5pm and 5.30–7pm
Location: More Music, Devonshire Road, Morecambe and The Rainbow Centre, Clarence Street, Morecambe

See the poster here

–

Bay International Film Festival Returns for Its Third Edition
The Bay International Film Festival is set to return to Morecambe for its third edition, bringing nine days of independent cinema, creative celebration and community connection to venues across the town. The festival will showcase extraordinary films alongside post-screening conversations, many featuring visiting filmmakers, continuing its commitment to accessible culture through free and low-cost events for local audiences.

Date: 23 January – 1 February 2026
Location: Morecambe

Take a look at the Film Festival Programme

–

Film Night and Conversation: Poppy Shakespeare
CCrAMHP is hosting a free film screening and discussion exploring creative and critical perspectives on mental health practice through the powerful Channel 4 film Poppy Shakespeare. The evening offers a welcoming space to watch reflect and share thoughts on lived experience systems and storytelling with all welcome to join the conversation in a relaxed community setting.

Date & time: Tuesday 13 January 2026, 7–9pm
Location: Olive Bar, Gregson Community and Arts Centre

Find out more

If you would like more information please message them on Facebook or email [email protected] for more information.

See their Facebook post about it here

–

CGL Project Lead Opportunity – North Lancashire
Active Lancashire is recruiting a CGL Project Lead to drive the delivery of a new Active Recovery programme across North Lancashire from February 2026. This full-time permanent role will lead partnership working across recovery communities and local systems supporting people to improve physical and mental wellbeing through inclusive physical activity. The post offers the chance to shape place-based delivery manage staff and volunteers and create meaningful impact in communities including Lancaster Morecambe Wyre and Fylde.

Salary: SCP 19–22 £32,061–£33,699
Contract: Full time 37 hours permanent subject to external funding
Location: North Lancashire including Lancaster Morecambe Wyre and Fylde
Closing date: Currently open

Explore this role and apply

–

Pupil Attendance Support Worker – Lancashire County Council
Lancashire County Council is recruiting a Pupil Attendance Support Worker to join its School Attendance Support Team and help improve attendance outcomes for children and young people. The role works closely with schools families and partner services to address barriers to attendance using data-led approaches and collaborative practice. This is an agile post with regular travel across North Lancashire and opportunities to make a meaningful impact on pupils’ engagement with education.

Salary: £36,363–£40,777 per annum, pro rata
Contract: Permanent, full time 37 hours per week, term time only
Location: North Lancashire including Lancaster, Morecambe and Fleetwood with meetings in Preston and Chorley
Closing date: Monday 9 February 2026, 12pm

Find out more about this role and apply

–

Trauma Informed Therapist – We Are Survivors
We Are Survivors is seeking a Trauma Informed Therapist to deliver high-quality prison-based therapeutic support within its Criminal Justice Services. The role focuses on providing trauma-informed therapy to male survivors of sexual abuse and exploitation, working to the organisation’s strong values around integrity, inclusion and survivor-led practice. This is a highly specialist role requiring professional registration, strong safeguarding practice and the ability to work confidently within confidential and secure environments.

Salary: (£27,810. 33 – based on a full time equivalent)
Contract: Part-time (15 hrs/2 days), Permanent
Location: Prison-based delivery, Leyland, organisational base Salford, Greater Manchester
Closing date: 30 January 2026, 3.45pm

Read the role profile here
Find out more and apply

–

Home Energy and Retrofit Advisor – Green Rose
A friendly and growing team is recruiting a Home Energy and Retrofit Advisor to provide one-to-one energy advice to residents across Lancashire. The role supports people to better heat their homes reduce energy costs and understand low carbon options through phone video and community-based conversations. This is a people-focused role suited to someone who enjoys listening problem-solving and making practical change with full training provided on technical aspects.

Salary: £25,925 FTE plus 5% pension
Contract: Permanent, part-time or full-time, 22.5–37.5 hours per week
Location: Home based in Lancashire with occasional travel to Lancaster and across the county
Closing date: Monday 12 January 2026

Find out more about this role and apply
View the job description here

–

Veterans Officer – Morecambe FC Community Foundation
Morecambe FC Community Foundation is looking for an energetic and capable individual to join their team as a Veterans Officer

This part time role is funded by the Armed Forces Covenant Trust Fund until March 2027, with the aim of improving the health and wellbeing of veterans. The Officer will deliver early interventions that tackle severe loneliness in older veterans living alone in care settings, supported living accommodation, and in the community. They will also provide personalised one-to-one support and accessible group activity that will create trusted relationships, social connections, development of new skills, and improve access to local services.

Salary: £12.21 per hour
Contract: Part-time (15 hours per week), fixed term to March 2027
Location: Morecambe and various venues across the district
Closing date: 20 January 2026
Interviews: week beginning 26 January 2026

Find out more and apply

–

Could you be an on-call Firefighter?
Lancashire Fire & Rescue Service are looking for people across Lancashire to join their on-call crew – no experience needed, full training provided. 

• Starting retainer of £4,445 a year + call-out payments 

• Firefighter pension scheme 

• Flexible hours to fit around your life 

Find out more 

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:

Funding and governance support, contact [email protected]

Volunteering and DBS,
contact [email protected]

Payroll, bookkeeping and independent examinations, contact [email protected]

Health and social prescribing, contact [email protected]

Children and young people, contact [email protected]

Membership queries to: [email protected]

Partnerships, networks and strategic development, contact [email protected]

Alternatively, call us on 01524 555900

To promote your events, training, jobs, and sector news, email [email protected]