Information and Advice for the Lancaster District’s Third Sector – 16 December 2022

We are working with the local voluntary and community sector and Lancashire and District-wide partners to support VCFSE organisations and people living in our communities. We encourage you to share this page with others.

An archive of previous editions can be found here.

Click headings below to expand each section.

We are recruiting!
The Young People Participation Worker will work with colleagues in LDCVS and Cumbria Youth Alliance to deliver a project which facilitates a young person-designed and -run grant-making programme.

The project and post are funded by the Francis C Scott Charitable Trust.

Find out more in the Jobs section or visit our job listing here.

Save the Date – Volunteer Fairs February 2023
In the first quarter of 2023 we will host two Volunteer Recruitment Fairs.

  • Morecambe Library on Monday 6th February, 10.30am to 1.30pm.
  • Lancaster Library on Thursday 23rd February, 10.30am to 1.30pm

These will be opportunities for local volunteer involving organisations to come along with their banners, leaflets, and other promotional materials to speak directly with people who are interested in volunteering. We will be inviting a variety of people from the local areas to come along and we hope that each will be a busy and worthwhile day.

Invitations to organisations will go out soon, but there is no need to wait – if you would like to book a space (it’s FREE) email [email protected].

We want to accommodate up to 15 organisations with tables at each event, but if you can’t attend on those dates or if you miss out on a space, you can still have your roles represented. Simply make sure that you are registered on our website, with your volunteering opportunities uploaded, and send electronic or hard copies of your promotional materials to Mark at Lancaster District CVS.

Lancaster District Directory
Serving Lancaster, Morecambe, Carnforth and surrounding areas

Our digital directory and social prescribing project has been an important and challenging piece of work in our 50th anniversary year. Over the last several months we have been working to collect information on services, specify and develop the public directory website, and ensure that we have the systems and processes in place to take electronic patient referrals from staff in GP surgeries.

We’re getting ready to share the results of these efforts and will shortly be launching the directory and accepting the first GP referrals. To begin, we’ve created a video which explains the purpose and benefits of the project, to help people out there in our communities understand how it can help. Please do take a look, circulate the link your colleagues, and use it to introduce the directory to your followers on social media.

If you’re one of the few voluntary and community sector organisations which hasn’t yet claimed your listing, it’s not too late. Take a look at lancastercvs.org.uk/directory to find out more, and contact Jenny by email at [email protected]

Community Grants Programme Building Support for Community Organisations
The Community Grants Programme (formerly the Community Investment Scheme) is part of NHS Blood and Transplant’s commitment to build support for donation amongst Black, Asian, mixed heritage and minority ethnic communities. The programme builds upon the success of the Community Investment Scheme and funds community and faith/beliefs organisations to drive awareness, understanding and behaviour change. In its latest round of funding the programme has broadened its scope to cover a range of health inequalities.

  • Blood donation – Total funding pot: £300,000 (projects engaging Black African and Caribbean communities only)
  • Deceased organ donation – Total funding pot: £150,000
  • Living kidney donation – Total funding pot: £150,000
  • Stem cell donation – Total funding pot: £100,000
  • Combined blood and deceased organ donation – funded using a combination of the above. The blood element of the project must focus on Black African and Caribbean communities

The application window for this fund closes on January 8th 2023.

Learn more about this fund and how to apply

Crowdfund Lancashire – Lancashire County Council | Spacehive
Funding is available via Crowdfund Lancashire brought together by Lancashire County Council and Spacehive.

Crowdfund Lancashire gives everyone a chance to create and support local culture and sport projects which matter most to them, while enabling everyone to contribute towards their community – chipping in as little as £2 to help bring ideas to life. If it matters to our communities, it matters to Lancashire County Council, who will support eligible projects with a pledge from the new £500,000 Lancashire Culture & Sport Fund (LCSF).

If you have an idea that will improve the culture or sport offer in your community, you could get up to £20,000 towards your target. To take part in the first funding round, pitch to the fund and launch your crowdfunding campaign on Spacehive by 1st February 2023.

Learn more about the fund and apply

Money Saving Expert (MSE) Charity to Reopen in January 2023
Grants of up to £7,500 are available for UK not-for-profit organisations by the Money Saving Expert Charity. The MSE Charity gives grants to small to medium sized organisations that deliver activities which make a lasting impact on how people think, behave and manage their money.

The next round, which has been brought forward due to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, will focus on Raising the Next Generation. Under this theme, projects should support the younger generation (under 25) to help them learn financial life skills and to grow during the difficult financial climate.

Work may include:

  • School-based activities.
  • Migrants.
  • Lone parents.
  • Victims and survivors of domestic abuse.
  • Family outreach services.

This round is due to open at 9am on 3 January 2023.

For further information follow this link

Learn more about the MSE charity and funding opportunities

New Fund Launching for Racial Justice and Mental Health Projects
Synergi is an England-wide programme of work which focuses on the intersection of racial justice and mental health. As part of the programme, there will be a small grants fund delivered by National Survivor User Network (NSUN).

One-year grants of £2,000 to £3,000 will be on offer to organisations which are:

  • Led by and for Black people and people of colour.
  • Led by and for people who have shared experiences or identities with those they are creating spaces for.
  • Benefitting people or communities who live with mental ill-health, trauma, and distress.

The fund is intended to reach communities experiencing the most extreme forms of discrimination or injustice including the hostile environment, anti-transgender legislation and Prevent.

The fund will open on 4 January 2023 and close on 29 January 2023.

Read more about the fund and how to apply

Amazon Literary Partnership Reopens for 2023
Amazon Literary Partnership has launched its fourth year of funding to provide grants to literary organisations that develop emerging writers, support diversity, celebrate storytelling, and/or build authors’ careers. 2023 grants are now being accepted from UK non-profit literary organisations. Funding is for innovative groups that amplify diverse voices, and strive for a lasting impact on writers’ lives, the literary and publishing communities, and the broader community.

The deadline for applications is 31 January 2023.

Discover more about the Amazon Literary Partnership

New Round of Community Grants from NHS Blood and Transplant
Previously known as the Community Investment Scheme, the newly named Community Grants Programme has now launched for 2023 and is accepting applications across England and Wales. The funding is intended for community and faith/belief organisations to positively engage Black, Asian, mixed heritage and minority ethnic communities.

In this latest round, the scheme is broadening its scope to cover a range of health inequalities:

  • Blood donation (projects engaging Black African and Caribbean communities only).
  • Deceased organ donation.
  • Living kidney donation.
  • Stem cell donation.
  • Combined blood and deceased organ donation, funded using a combination of the above. The blood element of the project must focus on Black African and Caribbean communities.

The deadline to apply is 8 January 2023 at midnight.

Learn more about the grants programme and how to apply

UK Youth Parliament grant open for applications – closing 18 December
DCMS has launched a grant competition to deliver the next iteration of the UK Youth Parliament, a programme which engages young people in a UK-wide democratic process, enabling them to express their voices and participate in the development of policy on issues that matters to them. £750,000 grant funding is available to deliver the programme for two years from April 2023 to March 2025. The grant is open to individual, and groups of, charitable, benevolent and philanthropic organisations in England.

Applications close on Sunday 18 December 2022 at 23:59.

To find out more information about applying for the grant, visit the UK Youth Parliament grant webpage.

Social Enterprise Boost Fund launches on 30 November
The Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) has launched a competition for the Social Enterprise Boost Fund. £4.1 million will provide support to social enterprises in disadvantaged areas, such as training, networking and peer learning, including £1.5million of grants for entrepreneurs to kickstart their enterprises. The Government sees how vital social enterprises are to the local community, and wants to ensure that any support is locally-led by social enterprise experts, sharing their knowledge with those entrepreneurs just starting out.

Find out more information on how to be a Local Delivery Partner for the Social Enterprise Boost Fund on the Government webpage.

Changes to National Churches Trust’s Grants from 2023
To better align with its incoming 2023-26 strategy, National Churches Trust has made some amendments to its funding programme and application system which are expected to simplify the process of applying.

As before, there are three distinct schemes, now offered as follows:

  • Small grants (previously Foundation grants for maintenance) – up to £5,000 for projects costing up to £20,000. This funding is for small repair projects to buildings that were originally built as churches.
  • Medium grants (previously Gateway grants) – up to £10,000 for projects costing between £20,000 and £80,000. This funding is for project development or urgent and essential maintenance and repair.
  • Large grants (previously Cornerstone grants) – up to £50,000 toilet and kitchen projects costing more than £30,000 and repair projects costing more than £80,000. This funding is for large repair projects or the installation of kitchens and toilets.

The Trust accepts applications from Churches of any Christian denomination and age across the UK, Channel Islands and Isle of Man.

Grants programmes are expected to relaunch in March 2023.

More details on each of the individual funding streams can be found on the National Churches Trust website.

Changes to our grants in 2023 | National Churches Trust

Lloyd’s Bank Foundation England and Wales Launches Unrestricted Grants
Small and local charities can now apply for unrestricted grants of up to £75,000, spread over three years, from Lloyds Bank Foundation for England and Wales. It is the first funding opportunity from the Foundation since it launched its ‘Building a Better Future’ strategy earlier this year.

Charities and Charitable Incorporated Organisations (CIOs) with a turnover of £25,000 to £500,000 can apply for an unrestricted grant of up to £75,000 over three years, provided they are carrying out work which fits in with one of the fund’s priorities:

  • Addiction and dependency on alcohol, drugs and/or gambling
  • Asylum seekers and refugees
  • Domestic and sexual abuse
  • Homeless and vulnerably housed
  • Offending, prison or community service
  • Sexual exploitation
  • Trafficking and modern slavery
  • Care leavers

The deadline to apply is 3 March 2023, for decisions by 14 July 2023.

Learn more about this funding programme

New Dates for National Lottery Grants for Heritage over £250,000
Not-for-profit organisations and third sector-led partnerships in the UK can now apply for the largest grants within the National Lottery’s Heritage programme. The Heritage Fund fund projects that connect people and communities to the national, regional and local heritage of the UK. Heritage can mean different things to different people. It can be anything from the past that you value and want to pass on to future generations.

Until the end of the 2022/23 financial year, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, priority will be given to projects that:

  • Promote inclusion and involve a wider range of people (mandatory outcome).
  • Boost the local economy.
  • Encourage skills development and job creation.
  • Support wellbeing.
  • Create better places to live, work and visit.
  • Improve the resilience of organisations working in heritage.

The programme provides three levels of grants, with those under £250,000 offered on a rolling basis.

The next deadline for grants up to £5 million is 23 February 2023.

Read more about the Heritage Fund and how to apply

Applications for Rank Foundation Awards Now Open
The Hospice UK funded programme is open for applications under the 2022 theme of Environmental Improvements. Projects should help hospices to implement measures that will reduce their impact on the environment and to deliver sustainable healthcare. Grants of up to £20,000 are available to adult hospices that are members of Hospice UK.  The programme is primarily to support capital costs, though revenue costs that help deliver the capital activity can be included in the project costs. Nevertheless, revenue costs must not be the primary expense.

The deadline to apply is 20 January 2023 at 5pm.

Learn more about the Hospice UK grant programme

Future Communities Fund Now Accepting Applications
As part of its new strategy, ‘Building Communities of the Future Together’, Co-op Foundation has opened an unrestricted grants programme supporting youth engagement in the UK. The Future Communities Fund offers grants of up to £30,000 per year for five years. The Future Communities Fund will focus on supporting voluntary organisations passionate about helping achieve their Future Communities Vision, created by young people.

Find out more about the fund in this ‘Future Communities Fund Webinar’…

 

The fund is open until 12pm on 23 December 2022.

Find out more about Future Communities Fund and how to apply

UK Community Foundations Receive Funding Boost for Ukrainian Refugees
Following a £500,000 donation from the Masonic Charitable Foundation, Community Foundations across the UK will be able to provide additional funding to charitable groups supporting Ukrainian Refugees in their local areas. In total, this will bring the amount given by the Freemasons towards assistance for Ukrainians to over £1 million since the onset of the Russian invasion.

10 Community Foundations will receive a grant of £50,000 including Community Foundations for Lancashire & Merseyside.

For more information on this funding opportunity click here

Lancaster District Community Wellbeing Fund – Round 3 Extended
Community groups now have until January 13th to submit applications for the Lancaster District Community Wellbeing Fund third round. Grants of £500 to £2,000 are available to expand activities and reach more people, or to support new projects.

The fund aims to support projects that have a direct impact on physical and mental well-being, for example knit and natter sessions, walking for health groups, or art/crafts-based activities. This upcoming round focusses on those working with the over 55s and the disabled.

For more information and to apply

Lancashire Warm Spaces Grant Scheme
A new grant scheme aimed at helping organisations in the community to run warm spaces this winter has been launched by Lancashire County Council. All libraries in Lancashire have been designated as warm and welcome spaces where people can find a warm drink, a space to sit, free computers and Wi-Fi, charging points for digital equipment, events and activities and help from staff to find further information about what support is available.

To complement this offer, the county council has developed a new small grants scheme that will allow organisations in the Voluntary, Community, Faith and Social Enterprise (VCFSE) sector, as well as for parish and town councils, to create or improve their warm space offer in their local community. Grants of up to £500 will be available through a simple application process.

The grant scheme is an open bidding round with no initial closing date. However, applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible before funding is fully allocated. Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis and decisions made within a 10-day period, until the funding has been fully allocated.

For information on the LCC Cost of Living Support

Go direct to Lancashire Warm Spaces and grant scheme information

Funding for Community Garden Projects
Charities, community groups, and community interest companies can apply for funding for community gardening projects in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Grants of up to £5,000 are available (although most grant awards are for under £2,000) for the creation of a community garden or a community park or allotment with a horticultural focus for the benefit of the local community.

Eligible costs could include site preparation (including hire of small mechanical tools such as rotavators), hand tools, plants, trees, shrubs, containers and seating. Projects encouraging biodiversity and wildlife are encouraged.

The funding is made available through the National Garden Scheme Community Gardens Grants programme which closes to applications at 12pm on the 31st January 2023.

Full details are available here

The Fore’s Spring 2023 Funding Round
The Fore’s Spring 2023 Funding Round offers unrestricted grants of up to £30,000 across 1 to 3 years to small charities and social enterprises. The Fore’s grants are intended to create a step change for your organisation – we call this ‘transformational impact’. For example, the grant may help your organisation grow, increase your staff capacity, serve a new beneficiary group, become more sustainable or make your systems more efficient. We just want you to be able to be better at what you do.

Grantees of The Fore Receive:

  • Unrestricted funding up to £30,000, which can be spread across 1 to 3 years.
  • Access to free, highly skilled support via The Fore’s pro bono network of skilled volunteers from our corporate partners.
  • Access to The Fore’s skills training workshops, covering topics such as: Fundraising, communications, finance, strategy, and more.
  • A fully funded place on an Impact Management course.

All UK-registered charities, CICs, CIOs and CBSs with an annual income under £500,000 in the last completed financial year are welcome to apply.

Registration for this will take place on 12 December, 10am

Deadline for Registered organisations will be 16 January, 5pm

You can find more information about The Fore and their upcoming Spring 2023 Funding Round on their website

William Wates Memorial Trust Reopens to Applications
Charitable groups in London and the South-East will soon be able to apply for multi-year grants for projects which support vulnerable young people between 5 and 19 years old. Most grants are for around £30,000 over three years. However, at any one time the Trust will also have two or three grants for £30,000 to £50,000 per annum over three years. The fund is open to registered charities and other non-profit organisations and Trustees will consider applications for the following type of projects:

  • To help the most disadvantaged young people keep away from a life of crime and violence, and to fulfil their potential.
  • To support projects that engage young people through the mediums of sport, art and education.

Projects which will be favoured are those with the potential for sustainable and lasting impact.

The fund opens on 24 November 2022 and closes on 23 December 2022.

Find out more about this fund and how to apply

Vision Fund Accepting Applications for 2023 Round
Following the launch of its report, ‘The Unseen – Blind and Partially Sighted People’s Experiences of Domestic Abuse’, the Vision Foundation has announced its latest grant programme which will address the Report’s findings. The programme offers a total funding pot of £200,000 and consists of two funding streams:

  • Micro Grants for Community Response – £500 to £5,000.
  • Grants for Coordinated Sector Response – up to £50,000.

Although the Vision Fund is usually only open to organisations carrying out activities in London, it recognises that effective response to domestic violence and abuse (DVA) may require strategic and national efforts. As a result of this, under the Coordinated Sector Response stream, applications from organisations that can clearly demonstrate an impact at the national level are accepted.

The deadline to apply is 23.59 on 6 January 2023.

Look into this source of funding further

Schools in England Invited to Join National Breakfast Programme
The National School Breakfast Programme (NSBP) is funded by the Department for Education (DfE) and delivered by Family Action to support schools in England to provide children with a healthy breakfast at the start of the school day. Building on the success of the former NSBP, Family Action can offer 2500 schools a place on the new Programme. The programme will provide schools with up to three years of support to run a successful and affordable school breakfast provision.

The NSBP will provide:

  • A 75% subsidy for breakfast club provision until the end of the current programme in July 2024
  • Good practice sharing opportunities, resources and the opportunity to learn from a national network of schools
  • The opportunity to enhance parental engagement on healthy eating and the importance of having a nutritious breakfast each morning
  • A knowledgeable school support team, will be on hand to provide remote advice and support.

To learn more about this programme and to show an expression of interest

NPC Launches Funds for Charities Tackling Financial Hardship
New Philanthropy Capital (NPC) is providing two separate funds in the financial hardship sector, aiming to relieve and reduce financial hardship in the UK. One off grants are available for small charities and other not-for-profit organisations that are supporting local communities in the UK who are facing financial hardship over the next six months.

The deadline for all applications is 16 December 2022 (5pm).

For further information on this funding and application

New Unrestricted Grants from Co-op Foundation
As part of its ‘Building Communities of the Future Together’ Strategy 2022-27, Co-op Foundation is preparing to launch the Future Communities Fund to support charitable organisations building communities that:

  • Are diverse, equitable and inclusive.
  • Prioritise youth activism, shared power and transparent governance.

Unrestricted grants of up to £30,000 per year for up to five years will be available to groups helping to build strong and inclusive communities and engage meaningfully with young people across the UK.

This application window will close at midday on 23 December 2022

Learn more about this fund

Access to Digital Inclusion Funding with Primary Care Programme
Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care System commissioned a pilot programme to support digital inclusion in primary care 2021 to 2022.  They are now looking to extend the project to work with more Voluntary, Community Faith and Social Enterprise (VCFSE) organisations across the region to become digitally enabled.

The deadline for expressions of interest in this programme is the 16th December 2022.

For the expression of interest form click here

£5m Fund from Ministry of Justice for Youth Sports Projects
The Ministry of Justice has identified new funding to invest in sports programmes across England and Wales that effectively deliver against criminal justice outcomes in the financial year to the end of March 2023. Grants of £20,000 are on offer though smaller amounts may also be available depending on the project.

Projects should involve sports-based activities to engage vulnerable young people at risk of offending across England and Wales.

For further details on the programme and application details

CLA Charitable Trust Announces Application Deadlines for 2023
The CLA Charitable Trust provides one-off grants, typically under £5,500, to small to medium UK registered charities and not for profit organisation with a clear social purpose that access the benefits of the countryside to pursue the health and wellbeing of people and to provide opportunities for education about the countryside in England and Wales.

Priority areas include: Children and young people, disadvantaged financially, physically, mentally, or from areas of deprivation. Applications for running costs, project works and capital works are eligible. Evidence of need should be demonstrated.

The first 2023 deadline for application is 6 February,to be followed by deadlines on 26 April and 31 August.

Learn more about the CLA Charitable Trust and it’s funding

‘Weston Charity Awards’ Open for Northern Charities Seeking Specialist Support
Applications for the Weston Charity Awards 2023 are officially open thanks to a collaboration between The Garfield Weston Foundation and charity partner, Pilotlight.

Now in its ninth year, the Awards offer a unique package of support worth over £22,000 to small charities in the North of England, the Midlands, and Wales. The Awards nurture leadership talent while amplifying a charity’s potential impact.

The application deadline is 6 January 2023

Discover more about the awards and the funding support on offer

Social Action Fund for Schools Opens 1 November
Grants are now available to schools in England to support young people to access high quality social action opportunities. The Ormiston Trust is a grant-giving trust that primarily supports schools and organisations that provide direct assistance to children, young people, and families across England.

Application deadline 16 December 2022

More information here

BBC Children in Need Core Costs funding stream launch
BBC Children in need have launched a Core Costs funding stream to support not-for-profit organisations working with children and young people aged 18 or under. Core Costs support essential organisational and administrative spending. These are the key expenses required to keep your organisation running. There is no deadline for funding applications.

Further details can be found here

The Elephant Trust
Grants are offered to artists, small arts organisations and galleries across the UK, with the aim of making it possible for artists to undertake and complete projects, leading to new, distinct and imaginative work.

Next deadline 23 January 2023

Find out more and apply

AB Charitable Trust
The Trust aims to defend human rights and promote respect to others, through grants to charities who focus on work around migrants, refugees, asylum seekers, penal reform and human rights.

Grants average between £10,000 and £20,000 to organisations with turnover between £150,000 and £1.5 million.

The next application deadline is 23 January 2023.

Find out more and apply

Third Sector Trends in England and Wales 2022
Earlier this year, we asked our members to complete the Third Sector survey. Third Sector Trends has been running since 2008. The study has been surveying the sector every three years since 2010 and as such is the largest survey of the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector in England and Wales.

In 2022, 6,071 responses were received across England and Wales (an average of ~600 responses in each region). Designed to complement NCVOs UK Civil Society Almanac, it is the only fully representative longitudinal survey which can produce robust and detailed comparative analysis at a regional and national level.

First Report – Structure, Purpose, Energy and Impact of the Voluntary Community and Social Enterprise Sector in England and Wales.

The first report provides comparative analysis of regions, types of organisations and different kinds of localities. Download the report here

Reflecting on the figures from the report, Rob Williamson Chief Executive of the Community Foundation said:

“This first report clearly shows the importance of the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector in terms of size and employment in England and Wales. We already know the sector is the glue that holds society together by providing help and support to many in need but at a basic level it employs and pays tens of thousands of people and puts millions into local economies. Without it we would be poorer in so many ways.”

“The vital role the sector plays is why we at the Community Foundation have set up a cost-of-living fund to support organisations which may be struggling with the double whammy of increasing demand and increasing costs.”

Second Report – Employees, Volunteers, Diversity and Investment in People fo the Voluntary Community and Social Enterprise Sector in England and Wales

Below is the link to the second report which has been recently published. This provides new comparative analysis on patterns of employment and regular volunteering, recruitment and retention, diversity in sector leadership and investment in people in England and Wales. The research was funded by Community Foundation Tyne & Wear and Northumberland, Power to Change, Barrow Cadbury Trust and Millfield House Foundation. Download the report here

The findings from this report indicate that employers in the Third Sector 27 are facing serious staffing challenges. The research also shows that support from regular volunteers has declined – especially amongst older volunteers and those who joined them during the Coronavirus pandemic. Consequently, this report concludes with some speculative observations on the causes and consequences of recruitment and retention problems which may warrant urgent action from organisational leaders.

What this report shows, is that making sweeping generalisations about the dynamics of the Third Sector are unwise. This is because the sector works in different ways, depending upon where organisations are based, how big they are and what they hope to achieve. It is anticipated that four more Third Sector Trends reports will be published over the coming months to explore the data in more depth. These reports will also draw on trend analysis from previous rounds of the study.

Family Learning Awards Now Open
In it’s second year running, applications are now open for the Family Learning Awards.  Any UK organisation working with families can apply including libraries, museums, community education, schools, 3rd sector organisations and tech companies. The award recognises any activities/events/initiatives that took place between October 2021- October 2022. Activities/events/initiatives may have started before or be continuing after those dates.

The Family Learning Awards from Campaign for Learning celebrate creative, innovative and inclusive learning. This year there are four categories in which you can enter your family learning activity, event or initiative. These are:

  • Family Learning in the Early Years Award
  • Award for Family Learning to Support Financial Resilience
  • Award for Family Learning to Support Health and Wellbeing
  • Award for Family Learning to Support STEM

The awards are free to enter and close on 31 January 2023.

Find out more about the awards.

Free Access to Promotional Tool for Charities
Charities and CICs in the UK can access a premium marketing and design tool Canva for no cost. If you are a non-profit organisation or group and require a quick, free and easy way to promote your promotional messages for online or social media, this handy digital resource could be useful.

To apply for access follow this link.

State of the Social Sector Survey – Cost of Living
NAVCA have been working with Pro Bono Economics and Nottingham Trent University on a State of the Social Sector survey aiming to collect data to be shared with the government, demonstrating the support that voluntary and community sector organisations need to support people through the cost of living crisis. The survey focuses on the cost of living crisis and its impact on the VCSE sector. It aims to gather data to inform Government decisions on extending support for the sector on energy bills and further funding to deliver the additional support you are currently providing…

Follow this link to contribute to the survey

For more information about the survey

Cyber Security for Charities
Cyber attacks can be devastating financially and reputationally, but many charities don’t realise how vulnerable they are to the threat. A recent Third Sector and NCSC survey with over 120 charities revealed only half are fully aware of the potential consequences of a cyber attack, leaving the other half open to emerging threats. Alarmingly, one in 10 said it’s not even on the boardroom agenda, and one in five said not a single employee was trained to identify a cyber attack.

Third Sector provide a guide that gives you an inside look into the current cyber threats that charities face, how to spot a cyber attack and how to get buy-in from the board to invest in cyber security.

Learn more about how to protect your charity from Cyber crime

Cranfield Trust FREE Telephone Support
Cranfield Trust is offering free telephone support in addition to their usual consultancy and mentoring, to provide one-off and immediate management support to charity leaders as they face the challenges at this time.

Telephone calls of approx. 30-45 minutes are pre-booked to capture information about the charity and the nature of the issue, and Cranfield Trust will then match a volunteer with the relevant skill set to the charity to provide the clarity and confidence they need to take the issue forward.

The service is free of charge for eligible social welfare charities and can be accessed through the Trust’s website.

Lancaster BID Christmas Toy Appeal
Teaming up with Joe’s Clothes, Helping Heart for Ukraine, the Children’s Ward at RLI and Unique Kidz and Co, Lancaster BID is appealing to the public and business community to donate new or nearly new toys to those children that really need them this Christmas.

Find out more about the appeal

Regenerative resilience and the role of communities
With the launch of a new report for Local Trust, Towards Regenerative Resilience, James Goodman, the Trust’s director of partnerships and learning, explores why building well-prepared, resilient communities is essential in an age of permanent crisis.

How to make recruitment disability inclusive
You want to attract brilliant candidates to your charity. Yet common recruitment practices put up barriers that stop all kinds of talented people from learning about, considering, or applying to join your team

Discover great inclusivity strategies in this Charity Digital article.

Call for activities and resources in libraries this winter
Lancashire County Council has plans to make use of its 64 Libraries, promoting them as warm and welcoming spaces this winter. As part of the first stage of this offer, one Library per Lancashire District (in our case Morecambe) will be offering a programme of engaging and inclusive daytime events, activities and self-care packs.

The Council are keen to hear from appropriate organisations who can help them deliver across some/all of the twelve Libraries, aimed at supporting residents with key issues relating to the cost-of-living such as food (e.g. cooking healthy food on a budget), fuel (e.g. energy efficiency measures) and debt/money management (e.g. budgeting).

Other libraries involved are Accrington, Burnley, Chorley, Clitheroe, Fleetwood, Ingol, Leyland, Nelson, Rawtenstall, Skelmersdale and St Anne’s.

If you feel that you would able to deliver an activity/event or provide self-care resources, please email [email protected]

NHSE Guidance on Strep A
In response to rising demand as a result of Strep A infections, NHSE ran a webinar to share information with the VCSE.  They are keen to engage communities and community organisations to share accurate information about the risks, and about when and how to seek medical help.

Key points from the webinar:

  • Despite rumours, there is not a general shortage of antibiotics used to treat Strep A and other conditions;
  • Children who have received the influenza vaccine are not more vulnerable to Strep A;
  • Having the flu can make children more vulnerable to invasive Strep A and so the flu vaccine can reduce vulnerability;
  • There has been a 30% increase in 111 calls, many from carers concerned for their children about Strep A, which has contributed to delays. Callers are encouraged to stay on the line until connected as this can save them a visit to the GP later.

General information with instructions on what to do if is concerned for a child.

More information about the recent bout of Strep A cases in children

UKHSA update on Scarlet Fever and invasive group A strep
In addition to the guidance on Strep A above, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) have issued a press release which can be found here. They have also developed a stakeholder pack with more information, available here. Over the coming days they will be monitoring the epidemiological picture closely, and developing further stakeholder communications as needed.

Out in the Bay Winter Warmer
Out in the Bay are running a Winter Warmer every Tuesday from 12-6pm.  Join the LGBT support group at 30-32 Claremont Road for a warm meal and a chat.

View their e-leaflet here

Spiking: What to Know and What to Look Out For
This time of year is a time for celebration when for many socialising and drinking are high on the agenda. With this, unfortunately comes an increased rate of spiking incidents and with Lancaster and Morecambe receiving higher case numbers reported, it is important to remain alert and learn about the dangers. Change Grow Live have compiled a useful resource link about what spiking is, the tell-tale signs of being spiked, how to tell if a drink has been spiked and preventative measures.  Visit their webpage here.

PPE Packs Offer
With the continued presence of communicable diseases/viruses this winter, PPE Packs are being provided by Lancashire County Council’s Public Health Team. This PPE Pack is free of charge, and will be made up of common PPE items to assist with responding to increase Infection Control Protocols.

If you would like to place an order, please find the order form download here. It is advised that you indicate the size of pack you require (basing this on the size of your setting.) You are able to order more than one pack if you have a number of sites within Lancashire, which must be listed on the order form.

The order form will need to be sent to [email protected] who will respond to your email and aim to deliver within 48 hours. All Packs are pre-made but will be subject to availability. All packs are non-returnable, there will be no provision to return items not used, so it is urged that you choose the correct size for your settings to reduce wastage.

If you have any faulty items please report them to [email protected]

DCMS and The Campaign to End Loneliness launch digital hub
The department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and The Campaign to End Loneliness have launched a digital hub to create a community for professionals working to reduce loneliness. The Hub enables members to connect with others who are also working to reduce loneliness, share the latest research and insight on what works and attend events and workshops. The Tackling Loneliness Hub is open to all professionals, including frontline delivery professionals, national policy advisors, academic researchers, and Local Authorities in England whose work supports a reduction in loneliness as well as those who would like to learn more about how their work could do so.

To join this community of over 350 members, visit the Tackling Loneliness Hub webpage.

The Bay: A Blueprint for Recovery & FREE Fork to Fork Bird Project
The Bay: A Blueprint for Recovery is a free Nature and Wellbeing programme for people in Morecambe Bay, helping individuals to improve their wellbeing and tackle feelings of isolation through learning about nature. Weekly wellbeing sessions are held for small groups at Happy Mount Park in Morecambe and at the Storey Gardens in Lancaster that individuals can refer onto. Activities link into the 5 ways to wellbeing and include bushcraft, conservation, environmental art, mindfulness and nature walks.

Along with the above being hosted is a free 4-week course at the Fork to Fork woodland garden in Lancaster from Tuesday 3rd January: Help create a bird feeding and viewing area in the woodland garden, while experiencing the benefits that time outdoors can have for our wellbeing. There will be the opportunity to meet new people, learn new skills and have fun in a safe and welcoming outdoor setting. Outdoor clothing is available on request and with a reimbursement of up to £5 per session for travel costs. Booking and pre-registration are essential due to limited spaces.

View their e-leaflet for these sessions here

To access the Nature and Wellbeing sessions please complete an online referral form or contact Alex (Nature and Wellbeing Officer) for more information: 07884 605256 / [email protected]

MBRN Top Tips ahead of Winter
With winter just around the corner, Morecambe Bay Respiratory Network (MBRN) is encouraging those who have long-term respiratory conditions to take precautions to avoid becoming really unwell. 

Top tips from the MBRN:

  • Have your flu jab 
  • Have your Covid booster
  • Have an anti-pneumonia vaccine if you have Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), bronchiectasis or pulmonary fibrosis
  • Stay warm (If you need help with heating costs, you might be entitled to welfare benefits. See our Q&A for more advice)
  • Avoid contact with people who have symptoms of cold or flu
  • Keep active 
  • Agree on a care plan with your health care professional. 

Dr Pat Haslam, local GP and joint Clinical Lead of the MBRN, said: “By autumn you should start to think about ways you can keep yourself well during winter if you are living with a long-term respiratory condition. 

 “Cold weather can trigger a flare-up of your symptoms if you have a long-term respiratory condition and make you more vulnerable to illnesses. But there are things you can do to look after your lungs this winter.”

For more information and tips read our Q&A with Dr Pat Haslam on the Bay Health and Care Partners website here

Health & Wellbeing Support Coaching – VCFSE Bursary Available
The Morecambe Bay Population Health Team are working with voluntary sector organisations in the Lancaster District to widen access to accredited health coaching skills training, which aims to upskill individuals to have better conversations and support people to reach their self-identified goals.

The course is for staff and volunteers who perform roles where they have the opportunity to support people to make behavioural changes that will encourage improved health and well-being. It will provide a range of tools and techniques that will help structure conversations to help individuals set and work towards goals that are important to them, whether this is about lifestyle changes that will promote better health and wellbeing, or being better able to manage long term conditions.

VCFSE organisations which would like help to enable their staff or volunteers to access this training can apply to Lancaster District CVS for an attendance bursary. This is to help cover the costs of time taken to attend the course. The bursary totals £87 (£12.50 per hour) which will be paid to the organisation’s bank account once the course has been completed.

Please complete this form to choose course dates and request a bursary place.

Lancaster District CVS will then get in touch with you to confirm the bursary and explain how to make your booking for the course.

Places are limited and subject to a first come first served basis

If you have any questions regarding this training, please contact: [email protected]

The course is currently running as an online workshop delivered over two sessions lasting 3.5 hours each. Course dates are below.

Day 1: Wednesday 7 December [13:00 – 16:30]
Day 2: Wednesday 14 December [13:00 – 16:45]

Day 1:Monday 9 January [2023] [9:30 – 13:00]
Day 2:Monday 23 January [2023] [9:30 – 13:15]

Day1: Thursday 9 February [2023] [9:30 – 13:00
Day 2: Thursday 23 February [2023] [9:30 – 13:15]

Operation Spectre Local Knife Disposal
Following the week long national initiative to tackle knife crime – Operation Sceptre, 594 knives have been recovered across the West Division which covers the areas of Blackpool , Fylde, Wyre, Lancaster and Morecambe.  Proactive engagement involved community meetings, school talks (at both primary and high schools) and leaflet drops. Sergeant Dan Whitaker from Lancashire’s Violence Reduction Network said: “This is a huge result for West Division and the public have really engaged with this operation. It is so important to us to reach as many people as possible through operations like this. Op Sceptre holds an important message and we will continue the work to make West Division a safe place to be.”

You can find your local knife bin in the following locations:

Lancaster – Under Carlisle Bridge, Morecambe Road, Lancaster, LA1 2RX

Morecambe – Near youth centre, Central Drive, Morecambe, LA4 4DE

Warm Hubs in the Lancaster District
Lancaster City Council have published information about places opening their doors to provide warmth, information and advice over the coming months.

This resource will be updated as more locations announce their plans.

View a list of locations, hours and provision here, or see a map of locations here.

The Family Hubs Network – LCC User Research Focus Groups
Lancashire County Council have set up further opportunities for children, young people, and parents/carers to share their views around how they access services, the connectivity between services and importance of relationships and support. The Focus Groups aim to highlight good practice already in the community services and also any gaps that may need to be filled.

Sessions are one hour long and will take place at:

  • Lancaster St Thomas’s Church – Tuesday 13th December | 4-5pm for CH/YP | 5-6pm for parents/carers
  • Morecambe Library – Tuesday 13th December | 4-5pm for CH/YP | 5-6pm for parents/carers

Learn more about the LCC Family Hubs Sharing Service here

Kooth Mental Health Resources – Struggling at Christmas
Christmas is a holiday that sees people gathering together to celebrate the festive season. At Christmas we are expected to spend time with the ones we love the most, but what about the times when our experiences don’t match up with what we see of other’s celebrations?  Kooth, the digital mental healthcare provider have provided some useful information sheets to help with young people struggling at Christmas.  Click on any of the links below to access these:

Struggling at Christmas with anxiety
Struggling at Christmas with Family Difficulties
Struggling at Christmas Dealing with Loss
Struggling at Christmas with Loneliness

Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) Development
An NHS led collaboration is taking place to build a community for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), which will focus on a whole system redesign of services for patients, families and carers. The redesign will be led by the community for the community, and they are now reaching out to work with the wider community of social care, education, police and and third sector partners to achieve this. To give the project the best possible chance of future success, a prototype is due to be formulated for this service in the Lancashire and Cumbria region.

The Innovation Agency’s Coaching Academy will be hosting a webinar on the 19th December to share learning so far. They invite you to participate and to allow for established interest and future collaboration opportunities. This work is planned to start quickly after the webinar, in January, and your involvement is encouraged.

If you are able to attend or nominate a representative please share this message with any colleagues who you feel would have an interest in being involved.

For more information contact Mel Harvey on [email protected]  

Happy Healthy Holidays Winter Programme of Activities
Children and young people receiving free school meals are being invited to sign up to enjoy free activities during the winter school holiday with the Holiday Activities and Food Programme (HAF). Funded by the Department for Education, ‘Happy Healthy Holidays’ provides a great opportunity for local children and young people who are eligible for benefits-related free school meals to get out and about, get active and meet new friends. The sessions include a variety of fun activities alongside a nutritious meal each day. Lancaster City Council’s Winter programme of activities is being delivered by a whole host of providers and takes place between 19th and 22nd December.

For more information on the activities on offer and how to book

ComBAT Research Study – Request for Participants
A research team from the University of York and Tees, Esk & Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust are currently running a 5-year programme of research and are looking for schools to take part.  ComBAT stands for Community-based Behavioural Activation Training for Depression in Adolescents. The aim of this research is to develop an intervention for young people experiencing low mood aged 12-18 years that can be delivered in schools and other community settings. We have developed this intervention and want to test this with 236 young people nationally to see how it compares to the care young people would usually receive.

See more with their request for research help advert

Walk with Us Toolkit – A Resource for those Bereaved by Suicide
CHILYPEP (Children and Young People’s Empowerment Project) and NHS South Yorkshire have recently released a wonderfully engaging resource for children, young people and families bereaved by suicide.

You can download a copy here

Young Citizen Awards 2023
Do you know a young person, aged 19 or under, who has made a difference in their local community? Want to see them receive special recognition for doing something exceptional? 

The High Sheriff of Lancashire is looking for your help to find the county’s most deserving youngsters for the 2023 Lancashire Young Citizen of the Year award .

The winner will receive £500 along with a specially commissioned trophy and certificate from the High Sheriff and Chief Constable Chris Rowley. Two runners up will also receive £100 and a certificate.

Nominate someone you know today!

Santa’s Crafthouse
Lancashire Adult Learning are offering family learning opportunities focused on craft skills to make fun and exciting decorations for Christmas or winter celebrations.

To discuss hosting sessions in your community, contact Tamima at [email protected] or telephone 07467 487360.

 
The Bay: A Blueprint for Recovery Nature & Wellbeing Sessions 
The Bay are offering a 6-week after-school programme of Nature & Wellbeing sessions for 11-18 year olds. The weekly sessions, held on a Thursday 4-6pm at Lancaster Maritime Museum, will help young people to improve their wellbeing while getting creative, learning about and taking action to protect the fantastic wildlife of Morecambe Bay. 
 
To book a space please complete the online referral form or for more information contact Alex[email protected] / 07884 605256
 

NCVO Lloyds Foundation Free Event – New Procurement Bill
Government is currently agreeing new procurement rules that will replace the EU regulations that have guided procurement practice. These rules will determine what processes contracting authorities (such as local authorities, PCCs or central government departments, for example) follow to decide who should deliver public services.

Many of the funded charities face enormous challenges when it comes to commissioning and procurement but work has been undertaken with NCVO and others to try and influence the new procurement rules. The Bill includes some positive elements but there are still areas where it could be strengthened to better address some of the challenges charities face and to help ensure appropriate, quality services are available to people locally.

In January, the Bill will be discussed in the House of Commons. This is where MPs will have the chance to debate the Bill and suggest amendments. Ahead of that, it will be really important for MPs to understand why it’s so important to engage in the debates around the Procurement Bill and how it can be improved. That’s where you could have a particular role!

If you’re involved in public service delivery and are interested in how the Procurement Bill might address some of the procurement challenges the sector face, join the Lloyds Bank Foundation for a session in January that will include:

  • An update on the Bill – what’s included and where it could be strengthened
  • Information and resources about how you can help, specifically in terms of getting in touch with your MP to make sure the Bill is on their agenda.

Find out more and sign up here for the event

Mental Health First Aid Training
Mental Health First Aid training dates are now available to book on to for professionals working with young people from the Lancaster and Morecambe area.

MHFA for self harming behaviours and suicidal thoughts – MS Teams – 10 places available on each session 

Friday 20th January 9-11:30am 
Thursday 16th March 12:30-3pm 

Youth MHFA – face to face 2 day course – Lancaster – 16 places available 

Thursday 9th and Friday 10th March 
Please contact Sam at  [email protected] to book a place.

View the Mental Health Champions Pathways Guidance Document for Schools and Partner Agency Professionals

More information on the Lancaster & Morecambe CAMHS Primary Mental Health Workers & local Mental Health Champions Network

Lancaster City Council Planning Team – Request Local Resident’s Views
The planning team at Lancaster City Council have put a call out to local residents to share their views on local developments, nature, food production, climate resilience and more. The informal consultation will discuss the area action plan for Lancaster South, ensuring an Area Action Plan will be robust, fully evidenced and engagement with all interested parties is fulfilled.

The deadline for responses is the 9th January 2023.

For more information and topic papers on these developments

New Year’s Eve Ceilidh & Jig-Run-Rig Band – The Centre, Halton
The Ceilidh at The Centre is back for 2022 after a three year break. There will also be musical entertainment by Jig-Run-Rig, a Cumbrian ceilidh band with an exciting varied taste in music, including Celtic, French and Canadian, as well as English and local Cumbrian Tunes. There will be a bar and nibbles on sale but please bring your own picnic meal this year.

The Ceilidh will be on Saturday 31st December from 7.30pm – 12.30pm. 

For further information and to book your tickets

The Sunday Social at More Music – Warm Hub
With the challenging winter ahead More Music are joining the Warm Spaces Scheme and opening their doors on Sundays from 2-5pm. Their Sunday Social is free of charge and offer a warm and welcome space where you are invited for lunch while avoiding the cold, plus there’s great music to enjoy. Running every Sunday until March 2023.

Find out more here

Christchurch Hall Function Hire
Are you looking for a venue to host an event such as a wedding or christening?  Christchurch Hall are welcoming bookings for all types of functions such as social events, classes, meetings and more on either a one off or regular basis. The Church Hall is modern and spacious with a well-equipped kitchen. The hall is also fully accessible, with disabled lavatory facilities and includes plenty of chairs and tables. 

For more information on the venue view their e-leaflet here

Festive Fun Run
Lancaster & Morecambe AC is organising its popular Christmas 4k Festive Fun Run from the clubhouse on the athletics track at Salt Ayre Leisure Centre, near Lancaster (LA1 5JS) again this year, on Wednesday December 28th at 11am. It is aimed at families and fun runners as well as more regular competitors.  There will be a great atmosphere and a super festive medal for all finishers. All runners are very welcome to run in fancy dress.

Any queries contact Steve Perry via email: [email protected]

For further event information click here

Digital skills training from Reason Digital
Four free e-learning courses are currently on offer for third sector organisations via Reason Digital:

  • Mobilising supporters: Through the power of storytelling, personalisation, data, and more, you can deliver a truly empowering journey for your supporters. In turn, your engaged supporters can deliver massive value to your organisation.
  • Digital strategy for charities: how to approach and get the most out of your charity digital strategy.
  • Digital fundraising: how to make the most out of online donations, including practical tips and strategies.
  • Creating engaging content: how to create inspiring, impactful, and engaging content for your charity.

Find out more and access courses here

Tackling Homelessness Digital Conference
Westminster Insight’s conference will share guidance and evidence-based strategies that services can implement to improve outcomes for people sleeping rough or at risk of homelessness.

Sessions include a focus on multi-agency partnerships, alternative housing solutions, young people and care leavers, and building resilient staff networks.

25 January, 9am – 1:30pm

Find out more and book tickets

Maths, English and ESOL Courses at the Cornerstone
Lancashire Adult Learning are offering maths, English, and English to Speakers of Other Languages courses at the Cornerstone, Lancaster.

To find out more about ESOL, contact Dora on 07387 103250

To find out more about maths and English classes, contact Sarah on 07786 197172

Christians Against Poverty Budgeting Course
The FREE CAP Money Course is for anyone who would like to have more control over your finances.

Friendly, informal sessions include pointers for setting a budget sticking to it, and provides a useful free online tool to help track what you spend your money on, helping to save money and stay out of debt for a secure financial future.

The course takes place in Morecambe or Carnforth.

Find out more and register interest by emailing [email protected]

Young People Participation Worker Vacancy.
Lancaster District CVS and Cumbria Youth Alliance are working together to provide young people a voice about the communities they live in and they are looking to recruit a worker that can support young people to lead on delivering this programme. The aim of the program is to:

  • Recruit young people to form a young people’s program team.
  • Provide grant-making opportunities to young people who wish to make a change in their communities.
  • Fund initiatives that give young people a stake in society, support their own social change efforts and influence policy.
  • Work with wider stakeholders and partners to share learning.

We are looking for someone dynamic and passionate about our work. You do not have to be university level educated or a youth worker though you could be either – but you need to be able to demonstrate your interest and direct experience in the social justice space and/or in the role young people can play in long-term change. We do not expect you to have experience of being a grant-maker though having interacted or worked with funders would be a bonus. This role will require flexibility in that it will have elements that are about direct relationships with young people, alongside collaboration and project management skills

This post involves recruiting young people and supporting them to design a young peoples led funding program. The role will also include coordinating applications coming from young people’s groups across the locality and enabling young people to have autonomy on final decision making.

For further information, please visit www.lancastercvs.org.uk/jobs Completed applications forms should be emailed to [email protected] by Wednesday 11th January 2023, 5pm. For an informal chat about this role, email [email protected] or call 01524 555900.

Salary: £13 per hour
Contract: 14 hours per week, fixed term
Location: Lancaster city centre with travel across the Lancaster district and Cumbria
Closing date: Wednesday 11 January 2023, 5pm.
Interviews: Monday 23 January 2023

Download the information pack here

Marketing & Events Coordinator at Lancaster BID
A rare opportunity has arisen to work with Lancaster BID to coordinate their exciting marketing and events programme. The successful applicant will join the small Lancaster BID team to deliver an exciting and varied programme of work to drive footfall into Lancaster city centre.

Salary: £Competitive
Contract: Part-time/ Flexible, 22.5 hours pw
Location: Lancaster
Closing Date: 5th January 2023

Find out more and apply

Paid positions with FoodFutures
FoodFutures Fundraiser (freelance position)
FoodFutures are looking to recruit a fundraiser to provide as-needed funding advice and support for priority FoodFutures projects, lead on the delivery of the Strategic Fundraising Plan and by extension, their Our Food Futures strategy.

Salary: £15.75 per hour
Contract: As required / Max 30 hours per month
Location: Lancaster/ The Storey Institute and homeworking
Closing Date: 27h January 2023

Find out more and apply

FoodFutures Network Builder & Facilitator
FoodFutures are looking for a Network Builder & Facilitator to work with the FoodFutures coordinator and the Communications and Engagement Working Group to develop a Local Food Champion Network; grow the FoodFriends scheme to reach 500 members; develop a business and enterprise network aligned with the Good Food Manifesto.

Application deadline: Friday 27th January 2023

Salary: £25,350 (37.50 hours for full time) pro rata
Pro-rata for 22 hours per week, £14,929
Contract: 22.5 hours pw. A one year fixed term contract, with intention to extend if funding secured.
Location: Lancaster
Closing Date: 28th January 2023

Find out more about this role and apply

Closing Loops REconomy Coordinator
FoodFutures are seeking a Reconomy Coordinator for their ongoing Closing Loops project.  The purpose of the job is to coordinate and oversee the delivery of the REconomy element of work in the Closing Loops project and support the development of a regenerative economy in North Lancashire.

Salary: £15,210 (22.5 hours a week) equivalent to £25,350 (37.5 hours for full time) pro rata.
Contract: 22.5 hours pw starting April 2023 / 4 year fixed term / Some evenings and weekends required
Location: Lancaster/ The Storey Institute and homeworking
Closing Date: 27th January 2023

Find out more and apply

Honorary Treasurer – The Lancashire Association of Boys & Girls Clubs
The Lancashire Association of Boys & Girls Clubs are looking for someone who has an excellent understanding of financial management, accounting and book keeping frameworks and able to support, advise and guide the Trustees, Finance Officer and County Director in financial matters and who has an interest in the welfare and personal social development of disadvantaged young people. The Honorary Treasurer’s duties will cover those as a trustee and those specifically designated to the treasurer role.

If you are interested in this role, click here for more information.

North West Forum Representative – Pathways Associates
Are you looking to work with a brilliant team with a chance to make a difference and speak up for people with a learning disability? Pathways Associates have announced a recruitment call for a number of Representative roles across different groups such as the North West Board, The National Campaigns Group, Being Safe Group, Staying Healthy Group and Living Well Group.

The closing date for this is Friday 16th December

Find out more about being a North West Rep

Full information here

BAME Outreach Support Worker – Preston Domestic Violence Services
Preston Domestic Violence Services are looking to recruit a BAME Outreach Support Worker.  This position is open to women applicants only. 

Salary: £15,834 actual (£23,434 pro-rata)
Contract: 25 hours pw
Location: A combination of office based (Harbour House, Port Way) and home visits
Closing Date: 4 January 2023, 12:00

Find out more and apply here

South Lakes Citizens Advice – x2 Job Opportunities
Macmillan Welfare Benefits Adviser
South Lakes Citizens Advice are looking to recruit a Welfare Benefits Adviser for their Kendal and Ulverston offices. The post holder will work with the Macmillan team to deliver a comprehensive, quality and accessible welfare benefits advice service.   

Salary: £12,254 per year
Contract: Contract, Part-time, 18.5 hours pw
Location: Kendal, Cumbria (On-site)
Closing Date: 3 January 2023, 12:00

Find out more and apply here

Volunteer Recruitment and Training Officer
South Lakes Citizens Advice are seeking a Volunteer Recruitment and Training Officer to recruit volunteers, provide training, support and guidance to all volunteers and staff. Responsible to the Chief Officer you will be required to worth with the management team to ensure that South Lakes Citizens has a well-trained and diverse volunteer base which can meet the demands of the service.

Salary: £12,254 per year
Contract: Contract, Part-time, 18.5 hours pw
Location: Kendal, Cumbria (On-site)
Closing Date: 3 January 2023, 12:00

Find out more and apply here

Recovery Worker with Richmond Fellowship
Richmond Fellowship are seeking a caring, flexible and creative individual to join their team at Adelphi Court as a Recovery Worker. Adelphi Court is a mental health, supported housing and community based service, working to a recovery model. Responsible for helping and inspiring the people who use their services to maintain their tenancy and independence in the community, you will be relied upon to work with them to come up with a personal support plan that will see them achieve their goals and aspirations.

Salary: £19,304 pro rata, per year
Contract: Permanent, Part-time, 30 hours pw
Location: Barrow in Furness, Cumbria (On-site)
Closing Date: 31 December 2022, 23:59

Discover more about the role and apply

Prince’s Trust Team Leader – Lancaster & Morecambe
An opportunity has arisen for a Prince’s Trust Team Leader to join an inclusive and value driven public sector organisation with an outstanding organisational culture. The role will include free car parking, a generous pension and generous annual leave. This is a challenging but immensely rewarding role, delivering the Prince’s Trust Team Programme to young people in the 16-25 age group in Lancashire. The Prince’s Trust Programme is a personal development programme that enables young people to develop their confidence, motivation and skills through teamwork in the community. It brings together people of different abilities, circumstances and backgrounds – both employed and unemployed.

Salary: Scale 6, SCP 20-27 £28,371-£33,820
Contract: 36.25 hpw a flexitime scheme is in operation
Location: Lancaster Fire Station & Morecambe Fire Station
Closing Date: 16 December 2022, 12pm

Find out more and apply here

Events Fundraiser with CancerCare
CancerCare are looking to recruit a dynamic, innovative and energetic Events Fundraiser to join their dynamic organisation. You’ll have excellent organisational and interpersonal skills and be able to connect with and engage a wide range of people. This role will suit someone confident at working on multiple projects at once, planning ahead and has a proactive approach to work.

Salary: £21,107
Contract: 30 hours (flexible working hours and arrangements in line with job description)
Location: Lancaster with occasional travel to other venues
Closing Date: 16 December 2022

For more on this role and to apply

Social Prescribing Link Worker/Health & Wellbeing Coach – Morecambe Bay Primary Care Collaborative
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a dual role Social Prescriber / Health & Wellbeing Coach to join the developing multidisciplinary team in the Carnforth & Milnthorpe Primary Care Network. This role provides a great opportunity to join a team who are committed in providing additional care and services across our patient population.

Salary: Dependent on experience
Contract: Permanent, Full-time
Location: Carnforth
Closing Date: 30 December 2022

For more information on this role and to apply

Trustees Roles for the Skelton Charity
For over 90 years the Skelton Trust has distributed funds to volunteer led charities to enable them to help more people. Their trustees are now looking to strengthen their membership by recruiting two additional members. They are welcoming applications from anyone who is able to serve as a charity trustee. The charity are interested in applicants who have digital communication skills, and those who can help build more inclusive communities.

For more information please see the role information pack. 

Trustee Posts with More Music in Morecambe
More Music in Morecambe are seeking three new Trustees to join their board of directors to develop the organisation and to strengthen and diversify the team. 

As a board member you will be part of a team providing creative opportunities for thousands of participants, artists and musicians engaging with More Music’s innovative programme of workshops and events. 

Salary:
Contract:
Location: Morecambe
Closing Date: 16th December 2022

Find out more 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:

Funding and governance support, contact [email protected]

Volunteering and upskilling your workforce, 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]