Information and Advice for the Lancaster District’s Third Sector – 19 July 2024
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Our weekly Bulletin is full of useful information. It’s one of the ways that LDCVS supports you to support your communities.
An archive of previous editions can be found here.
Before you read this week’s edition, help us to help you by anonymously answering this quick question about people’s worries.
Everyone can answer, no matter what you do in your organisation.
Click headings below to expand each section.
We Asked, You Said: Three Risks & Opportunities
Over the last two weeks, we asked you to tell us how likely you think it is that your community organisation will do these things at some point in the next three years:
- Make a grant application of £100,000 or more
- Use reserves to cover a shortfall in your budget for core costs
- Invest in technology to help save time or money
Thank you to everyone who answered – we’ll use this information to help us better plan our services and support in the future.
Here’s what you said:
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CYPMAF & Swop Shop Skill Share – Thank you!
Thank you to everyone who attended our June CYPMAF meeting and Swop Shop Skill Share Network recently to share best practice around amplifying young people’s voices. It was fantastic to be in a room with so many people committed to putting our trust in young people through developing a collective youth voice strategy. There was discussion around the importance of training young people to empower them to share their voices in safe and inclusive spaces where they can dare to dream.
As a group we explored the challenge of relinquishing control and putting our trust in young people. Every child has the right to express their views, feelings and wishes in all matters affecting them, and to have their views considered and taken seriously. We agreed that the outcomes of discussions with young people should influence meaningful and systematic change.
The outcomes of our discussions will inform how the voices of young people will shape Lancaster District Young People’s Foundation. We will be launching our recruitment drive for young trustees later in the year. Watch this space for further information.
250 free online fundraising packs available
easyfundraising is offering 250 free fundraising toolkits to help local organisations raise money online. Through easyfundraising, when your supporters shop with any of 8,000 retailers, including Tesco, trainline, eBay, Argos, Sainsbury’s, John Lewis, Asda and Booking.com, a donation is made to your organisation. All you need to do is use the free packs to tell your supporters about it
To get your complimentary pack, register with easyfundraising and when prompted, schedule a call with a member of the easyfundraising team who will arrange your toolkit and explain the process.
With only 250 packs available, claim yours today here: www.easyfundraising.org.uk/lancaster
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Funding to Engage Public Audiences with Ecological Science
The British Ecological Society (BES) is offering Outreach and Engagement Grants to BES members for public engagement and science communication activities that highlight the importance of ecological science. Grants of up to £2,000 are available for innovative projects, including events, digital formats, or physical resources, aimed at engaging public audiences. Applicants must be BES members starting January 2024. Applications are open to individuals, teams, and organisations, including schools and museums with significant outreach.
There next funding round is currently live with a deadline of September 11.
Apply online at the BES website. For more details, email [email protected]
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Funding for Digital Education, Inclusion, and IT Projects Across the UK
The WCIT Charity is offering grants of up to £15,000 for educational and not-for-profit organisations across the UK to support IT projects focused on education, inclusion, IT for charities, and understanding of IT. Projects can include services, solutions, training, apps, analytics, AI, robotics, or accessibility features. The deadline for applications is July 31, 2024. For more information, contact [email protected] or call 01422 348777.
Learn more about this funding opportunity
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Music for All Invites UK Community Groups and Schools to Apply to New Round
Music for All’s Community Project Funding Round 3 is now open, offering instrument-only funding to community projects and the Harris Foundation Schools Progression Award for schools enhancing their music provision. Awards include guitars, drum kits, ukuleles, keyboards, and more. Only UK-based applicants are eligible, and applications must include an independent referee. Notifications will be sent approximately three months after receipt.
Applications are due by 8am on 30 September 2024.
For more details, contact [email protected] or call 01403 628892.
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Asda Foundation Grant for Investing in Spaces and Places Now Open
The Investing in Spaces and Places Grant from ASDA offers up to £25,000 to grassroots community groups in the UK for transforming local spaces, such as kitchen renovations or community garden projects. Over £1 million in funding is available for 2024.
Applications closing on 28th July 2024.
Explore this funding option here
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New ‘Serving Families: On the Move’ Programme Opens for UK Applications
The Armed Forces Covenant Fund Serving Families On the Move offers grants of up to £120,000 for 2-3 year projects aimed at improving the quality of life for Service families affected by relocation. The program focuses on reducing stress for Armed Forces families by enhancing local support networks and access to wellbeing activities. Eligible applicants include UK-based registered charities.
The first application deadline is on 18 September 2024 and the second on 22 January 2025.
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Community Energy Fund Reopens for North West England Applications
The Community Energy Fund in the North West of England is now accepting expressions of interest for funding to support community energy projects. Up to £25,000 is available for projects like local renewable energy and EV infrastructure. Eligible community-based organisations should register interest before January 5, 2024. The fund aims to enhance local renewable energy assets, reduce energy costs, and create jobs.
Further details and full application guidance will be provided soon.
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Meet the funder: easyfundraising, your easy route to unrestricted funding
Does your community organisation need additional funds? Come along to find out how your organisation can receive free unrestricted funding via funding platform easyfundraising.
In this informal online session, Becky from easyfundraising will:
- Do a live demonstration of how it works
- Explain how to get your organisation set up
- Give you tips on how to raise as much as possible
There will also be Q&A session with Becky to help get a full understanding of how your organisation can benefit.
Suitable for: anyone involved in fundraising for good causes of all shapes and sizes including voluntary groups , CICs, social enterprises, churches, schools, sports clubs and charities
Date: 23 July
Time: 11.00am – 12.00pm
Set up your free easyfundraising account before the session, here.
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Baily Thomas Charitable Fund
General grants (£9,000 or more, deadlines 1 December, 1 March and 1 August) and small grants (up to £5,000, no deadlines) are available for the care and relief of those affected by learning disabilities. Funding can be used for capital or revenue investment, and can pay for specific projects or core costs.
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Rosa’s Stand With Us Fund
This fund was set up to address the critical lack of investment in frontline organisations supporting women and girls who experience male violence. It supports organisations to become stronger and more effective; better meeting the needs of women and girls and influencing wider change for all women and girls across the UK.
Organisations can apply for up to £25,000 to fund areas related to organisational development, including strategy, governance, leadership, having a stronger voice within the women’s movement, building alliances, fundraising, impact, systems and processes.
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7Stars Foundation Reopens for Third 2024 Funding Round
The 7stars Foundation offers grants to projects supporting young people (16 and under) who face challenges such as abuse, addiction, homelessness, or being young carers.
Funding is available through various streams: Project Grants of up to £2,500 cover costs for initiatives with immediate and long-term impacts, especially in deprived areas. Shine Bright Grants of up to £1,500 help registered charities provide essential resources during the cost of living crisis. Direct Grants support individuals affected by the foundation’s priorities, with applications submitted by professionals. Additionally, Social Impact Grants of up to £1,500 are available for projects aligning with specific awareness days like Race Equality Week and Mental Health Awareness Week.
The application deadline for the 3rd round 2024 are from 1 July to 31 August for an October review.
For more information, contact [email protected].
Find out more about the 7Stars Foundation
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McCarthy Stone Foundation
The McCarthy Stone Foundation is offering grants of up to £7,500 to community organisations, registered charities, and CICs to improve the health and wellbeing of older people (65+) in Great Britain, particularly in deprived areas. The funding can be used for a range of project or core costs, with unrestricted funding available only to registered charities and community groups.
The application window opens on 26 July 2024 and closes on 23 August 2024. For more information, visit the McCarthy Stone website or contact [email protected].
Learn more about this funding opportunity
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Architectural Heritage Fund
The Architectural Heritage Fund (AHF) offers grants for historic building projects in England. Project Viability Grants of up to £15,000 support early-stage work, while Project Development Grants of up to £20,000 aid project development. Eligible applicants are charities and not-for-profit organisations.
The next application deadlines for decision-making are monthly, starting from 22 July 2024. For more details, visit the AHF website or contact [email protected].
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Barchester Healthcare Foundation
Barchester Healthcare Foundation offers grants up to £2,500 to small community groups and local charities in Great Britain. The funding supports projects that reduce isolation and loneliness, promote activities, and improve the quality of life for older people and adults with disabilities. Eligible expenses include activities, equipment, member transport, and UK group outings.
Applications are open year-round.
Learn more about this funding opportunity
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Seven Friends Foundation – Grants to Unpopular Causes
The Seven Friends Foundation offers grants up to £3,000, prioritizing unpopular causes in deprived UK areas. Grants are available to registered charities and other organizations for core costs, overheads, and administrative expenses. Eligible groups must have an annual income under £300,000 and a safeguarding policy if working with vulnerable populations.
The application deadline is August 1, 2024.
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GSK Community Health Programme
The 2025 GSK IMPACT Awards and the new GSK Community Health Programme are now open for applications, offering core funding and free training for health charities. The IMPACT Awards are for charities with annual incomes between £150,000 and £3 million, offering up to 15 awards ranging from £4,000 to £50,000 plus free training. The Community Health Programme supports small charities addressing health inequalities with incomes between £20,000 and £150,000, providing up to £10,000 in funding and leadership training.
Deadlines are August 12 for the Community Health Programme and August 30 for the IMPACT Awards.
Read more about this fund and how to apply
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European Prize for Women Innovators
The European Prize for Women Innovators has opened for applications. This funding distribution celebrates women entrepreneurs driving groundbreaking innovations in Europe. Managed by the European Innovation Council (EIC) and the European Institute for Innovation & Technology (EIT), the prize includes nine awards across three categories.
The EIC Women Innovators category offers prizes of EUR 100,000, EUR 70,000, and EUR 50,000 to the top three applicants. The EIC Rising Innovators category, for promising innovators under 35, grants EUR 50,000, EUR 30,000, and EUR 20,000. The EIT Women Leadership Award recognizes exceptional women leaders with prizes of EUR 50,000, EUR 30,000, and EUR 20,000. Winners are selected by an independent expert jury.
The deadline for submission is 25 September 2024 at 5pm.
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School for Social Entrepreneurs
The School for Social Entrepreneurs (SSE) is inviting applications for its annual Trading for Good: Community Business Funded Programme, offering £1,000 – £5,000 in funding. The programme supports early-stage community businesses in England, providing skill development to generate income, build resilience, and positively impact their communities.
Eligible businesses must be based in England, established within the last 1-5 years, and have an income of less than £100,000 per year. Applications close on 24 July 2024. The programme runs from 17 December 2024 to 1 August 2025 and includes both online and in-person sessions. An information session will be held on 17 July.
Applications are now open with a deadline of 12 noon on 24 July 2024.
Learn more about this fund and apply
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Allen Lane Foundaton Grants to Support GRT Communities
The Foundation is inviting applications to support marginalized groups in the UK, focusing on Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller (GRT) communities. The grants aim to raise awareness, combat hate crime, stigma, and discrimination, and address issues like inadequate accommodation.
Eligible applicants include small registered charities, voluntary groups, charitable organisations, and Community Interest Companies, provided their work benefits areas outside of London. Local groups with incomes up to £100,000 and national groups up to £250,000 can apply.
Grants up to £15,000 are available, with average grants between £5,000 and £6,000. Applications are accepted year-round.
To be considered for the October 2024 meeting, applications should be received by the end of July/early August.
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Funding Opportunity for Intersectional LGBT+ Organisations
Consortium, in partnership with The National Lottery Community Fund, has launched the second round of the Equity Fund to support intersectional user-led LGBT+ organisations in England.
This funding targets under-represented and under-resourced communities, specifically D/deaf, Disabled, Neurodivergent LGBT+ people, LGBTQIA+ women, LGBT+ people of the Global Majority, older LGBT+ people, and Trans and Non-Binary people. Grants range from £100 to £25,000.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until 21 November 2024.
For more information, visit the Consortium website.
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Lloyds Bank Foundation Deaf & Disabled People’s Programme
Registered charities and CICs led by and working for Deaf and Disabled people can apply for grants of £75,000 over three years, for work based on a social model of disability which helps people have more choice and control over their lives.
42 charities will be supported. Closing date 28 August.
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DUT Call 2024: Funding Opportunity for Urban Innovation Projects
The Driving Urban Transitions (DUT) Partnership, funded by the European Commission under the Horizon Europe Partnership scheme, is launching its third Call for proposals to support transnational research and innovation projects addressing urban challenges. Opening on 2 September 2024, the call focuses on three “Transition Pathways”.
Detailed information and the call text will be available in July 2024.
Key Dates:
- Pre-proposal submission: 2 September 2024 – 14 November 2024
- Full proposal submission: February 2025 – 24 April 2025
- Projects start: September 2025 – January 2026
For more information, contact the DUT Call Secretariat at [email protected]
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Postcode Neighbourhood Trust – 1 Week to Apply
The Postcode Neighbourhood Trust supports smaller charities and good causes in North of England to make a difference to their community for the benefit of people and planet.
The funding supports smaller charities and good causes in the north of England, aiming to benefit people and the planet. Grants range from £500 to £25,000, depending on the organization’s legal structure.
Two funding rounds in 2024: from 24 June to 1 July and 24 September to 1 October.
For more information, visit the Neighbourhood Trust website or contact [email protected]
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Community Shares Booster Fund
The Booster Fund supports community businesses in England at any stage of launching a community share issue. It offers pre-grant support, development grants between £2,000 and £15,000, equity match investments from £10,000 to £100,000, subscription underwriting, and potential loan finance.
Priority is given to disadvantaged and under-represented communities and projects addressing climate change and digital inclusion. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until 2025, with monthly assessment panels.
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Rewilding Innovation Fund
The Rewilding Innovation Fund are open for applications for their second 2024 round. This fund aims to foster new and ambitious community rewilding projects, and to remove barriers to rewilding projects within Britain, whether they’re at the early planning stages or want to move a project one step wilder. Funding will be awarded to projects with potential for the highest impact for people and nature.
The available grants are up to £15,000 with less than £10k being most likely expected. There is a two-stage application process and criteria includes being based in Britain, membership of the Rewilding Network and size of project (more than 40 hectares).
Application deadline is Friday 30 August 2024.
Discover more about this fund and apply
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The Vegan Society
The Vegan Society grants are available to individuals and grassroots organisations across the globe working on projects that encourage non-vegans to go vegan and stay vegan. A typical award is £1000-£5000 which is granted to projects that meet the funders criteria.
Find out more about the Vegan Society Grants
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Which? Fund 2024
Which?, the UK’s consumer champion, is inviting UK registered charities, universities with exempt charitable status and not-for-profit Community Interest Companies registered in the UK to apply for a share of the £75,000 being made available for 2024/25.
In this call for applications, the Which? Fund is offering restricted grants to support work aiming to:
- Improve understanding of consumer harms affecting diverse and disadvantaged communities, including novel harms in digital markets.
- Identify evidence-led, pragmatic solutions to consumer harm.
- Develop partnerships and encourage collaborative working to provide a more powerful voice for all UK consumers.
Applications will be accepted until 19 September 2024 (5pm).
Learn more about this fund and how to apply
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PRS Foundation’s Beyond Borders Programme
The PRS Foundation Beyond Borders fund is taking applications for their funding programme aimed to stimulate and strengthen collaboration between organisations and bands or ensembles in England, Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, Scotland and Wales. It enables music creators to produce exceptional new material to be performed in at least three of these countries, raising the profile and benefits of co-commissioning, co-producing and touring to a broad range of audiences.
Grants are available up to £15,000 with up to 8-10 projects being supported per year.
Find out more about the programme here
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The Foyle Foundation
The Foundation, having disbursed over £140 million in grants since 2001, aims to complete its grant programme in 2025.
Grants programmes still open for applications until 31 January next year include:
- Main grants scheme (revenue, capital, and core costs) particularly around arts and learning for up to £50,000
- Small grants scheme for up to £10,000
- School library scheme for up to £10,000 (open to state schools only)
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Funding for Community Tree Planting Projects Across the UK
The International Tree Foundation is offering grants to UK community organisations for tree-planting projects that protect indigenous trees, engage communities, and increase awareness of forest importance. Eligible projects must plant trees in public spaces, use indigenous species, engage community members, and have maintenance plans. Special focus areas include involving children and vulnerable groups, enhancing biodiversity, and supporting rewilding. Grants are available for projects planting 100-25,000 trees per year or up to 30 orchard trees.
The application process begins with an online Expression of Interest form.
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Delamare Dairy Foundation Accepting Applications for Autumn 2024 Funding Round
The Delamere Dairy Foundation is offering grants between £250 and £5,000 to registered charities and charitable organisations in England, Scotland, and Wales that work in agriculture, environment, education, children and young people, financial hardship, or sickness relief. The application window for the Autumn 2024 Grants Panel opened on June 1st, 2024, with no set deadline yet. The Foundation, now in its fourth year, has historically favored projects in Cheshire, Lancashire, and Yorkshire but is expanding its geographic scope. Apply soon to secure funding for your community-focused projects.
Visit the Foundation’s website for more information and to apply
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MSE Charity to Open for Applications on 19 June
MSE Charity has updated its funding approach to offer project grants up to £10,000 twice a year with no specific themes starting June 2024. Applications must align with their goal of impacting how people manage money. A new staged application process begins with an eligibility quiz and Stage 1 Outline proposals opening on 19 June, closing on 31 July (or earlier if oversubscribed). Stage 1 outcomes will be notified by 30 August, followed by full applications closing on 4 October and funding decisions by mid-November 2024.
For more information and to apply
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Skipton Building Society Charitable Foundation Accepting Applications for Autumn Funding
The Skipton Building Society Charitable Foundation, established 24 years ago, supports UK registered charities focusing on education, mental health, poverty prevention, homelessness, and elderly care. Grants up to £6,000 are available quarterly for tangible items or activities benefiting socially deprived communities. Preference is given to smaller grants to maximize impact across the UK, aiding transitions from homelessness, enhancing elderly wellbeing, and supporting core skills development.
The next deadline for applications is 31 July for consideration at the September 2024 meeting.
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Road Safety Trust Announces Theme for Autumn 2024 Round
The Road Safety Trust’s Autumn 2024 grant theme focuses on ‘Inequalities in Road Safety’, aiming to address disparities in safety across UK communities. Projects can explore factors like social determinants, rural challenges, and technological solutions to enhance road safety. Grants range from £10,000 to £300,000, requiring match funding. Eligible applicants include UK-based organisations, charities, and university departments. Guidance notes are available on their website, with webinars and one-to-one sessions planned closer to the application opening on 26 September.
Applications will be accepted from 26 September to 1 November 2024.
For more information, please visit Road Safety Trust
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BBC Children in Need Emergency Essential Programme Reopens for Applications
This programme, run by Family Fund Business Services, helps children and young people up to age 17 facing tough challenges by providing essential items like cookers, furniture, and clothing in times of need. Applications must be made through a registered referrer from an organisation supporting the family, capable of assessing and overseeing the grant. It’s available to UK or EU resident children lacking adequate support, with applications typically processed within 10 working days.
There are no deadlines for applications.
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Freelands Foundation Invites Applications to Inclusive Practices Fund 2024
The Freelands Foundation Inclusive Practices Fund 2024 aims to tackle racial inequality in visual art education by funding projects that reimagine engagement and nurture belonging within the sector. Offering up to £25,000 per year for one to two-year initiatives, the fund supports UK-based charitable organisations, museums, galleries, and educational bodies. Projects must align with recommendations from the ‘Visualise race and inclusion in secondary education’ report, promoting innovative approaches to inclusivity in visual arts education.
Applications involve a two-stage process, starting with an Expression of Interest due by 19 July 2024.
Learn more about this funding opportunity
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Eric Wright Charitable Trust
Once again, Lancaster District CVS is working with the Eric Wright Charitable Trust to distribute grants of up to £500 to community organisations with an annual income below £50,000. Projects simply need to show how they can make a positive difference to the lives and wellbeing of people of any age.
Unlike previous years, there are no fixed application deadlines. Apply for funding at any time, and we’ll let you know the result by the middle of the following month. For example, all organisations who submit an application before midnight on 31 January will find out whether or not they have a grant in the middle of February, February applicants will find out in March, and so on until the fund is entirely allocated.
Download full guidance and apply at www.lancastercvs.org.uk/funding or to ask any questions about the fund please get in touch with Sharon Phillips by email at [email protected]
The Women and Girls Sector Survey
The Women and Girls Sector Survey, conducted on behalf of Rosa, will provide essential information on issues such as funding and expenditure, staffing and volunteers, service demand and sector concern. The results of this survey will help inform the government, media and many others of the pressures that charities, community groups and voluntary organisations within the sector are facing.
This survey is open until Wednesday the 24th and at the end you can opt in at the end to be entered into a prize draw for the chance to win one of five £50 Love2Shop vouchers!
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Community Conversations about Eden Project Morecambe
Lancaster City Council have announced the next Community Conversation about the Eden Project, Morecambe. The programme of community conversations are for people to find out more about Eden Project Morecambe. Attendees can hear updates directly from the Eden team and other partners, with opportunities to ask questions. These sessions occur monthly, both online via Microsoft Teams and in-person, continuing through until January 2025.
The next Community Conversation online event will take place on Tuesday, 6th August at 1.30pm and the first in-person event is on Tuesday, 3rd September at Morecambe Winter Gardens at 6pm.
Register and find more details here
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Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) Consultation
Lancaster City Council are consulting on the future of PSPOs across Lancaster, Morecambe and Heysham.
A Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) is a tool available to Councils under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 and are intended to be used to deal with a particular nuisance or problem in a specific area that is having a detrimental effect to the local community’s quality of life, by imposing conditions on the use of that area which apply to everyone.
Find out more about the orders and respond to the consultation here
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UHMBT Tackles Domestic Violence and Youth Violence
University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust (UHMBT) has appointed Rebecca White as an Emergency Department Navigator (EDN) for young people and Natalie Wright as an Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA). These roles aim to address domestic violence and violence among young people through early intervention and support.
Rebecca will work with young people aged 10-25, providing support for injuries, mental health issues, and more, while Natalie will offer specialist services to high-risk domestic violence victims. Their efforts are funded by Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner and are part of UHMBT’s broader initiative to improve community safety and wellbeing.
For more information, contact [email protected].
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Police and Crime Plan Survey
Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Clive Grunshaw, invites residents, businesses, and community groups to complete a survey to ensure the Police and Crime Plan reflects local views. The survey, with 21 questions, takes about 8 minutes and seeks feedback on crime, policing, and the proposed priorities for the 2024-2029 plan.
Further information and complete the survey
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Bookable Space Available at the Hobby Hub on Yorkshire Street
Andrew Galland, owner of the Hobby Hub on Yorkshire Street in Morecambe, is offering bookable slots for community organisations who wish to use the space for their meetings and activities.
The space will be available daily between 10am and 1pm, 2pm and 5pm, and 6pm and 9pm. Bookings must be made in blocks of four per month at a cost of £65 for all four sessions.
To find out more, email Andrew at [email protected]
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Morecambe People’s Biennial Celebrates Local Creatives
This Saturday, July 6, the inaugural Morecambe People’s Biennial will distribute £40 cash payouts to up to 100 local artists, writers, singers, dancers, filmmakers, and musicians at the Kings Arms pub.
Organised by artist Anthony Padgett, the event aims to support grassroots creativity and provide a platform for showcasing local talent. Eligible participants must be 18+ with proof of residency in the designated area.
The Biennial is part of Morecambe Arts Weekend, featuring the Morecambe Bay Art Fair and exhibitions across various venues.
Read more here
View the fundraising page here
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Community Connectedness Call for Collaboration
Jenni Hyde from Lancaster University’s History Department is developing a £1 million interdisciplinary project with colleagues from English, Music, and Psychology to explore how local heritage and the performing arts can foster community, place, and social cohesion.
The project will draw parallels between the historical grievances of the Pilgrimage of Grace and modern issues of marginalization. Community collaborators will work on transcribing historical documents, engaging with period music, and creating musical theatre to address contemporary challenges. The project aims to empower communities, enhance inclusive participation, and produce a policy document on heritage and music’s role in community empowerment.
External collaborators are needed for the funding application, with a deadline of September 1st. Interested parties should contact Jenni at [email protected].
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Development Support Programme for Charities Working with Refugees & Asylum Seekers
This new programme delivered by the Lloyds Bank Foundation provides development support (not funding) to charities that help refugees and asylum seekers and have an income between £25k and £500k.
Support could include activities such as working with a specialised consultant, a mentor or skilled volunteer, participating in peer networks or accessing resources, memberships and events. The Foundation’s Regional Managers will work with charities to identify strengths and challenges and how to address these.
60 charities will be supported across England and Wales, with 5 or 6 randomly selected from among eligible applicants in eleven regions.
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Gas Cooker Alert
The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has undertaken a programme (since Sept 2023) to repair certain gas hobs on the UK market. However, there are still many cooker owners who haven’t been contacted for a range of reasons.
The affected gas hobs may be fitted with a connector that is at risk of failing in certain circumstances whether the hob is in use or not. Should this occur, this could lead to a gas leak or fire. The corrective action involves arranging for an engineer to visit the property and check and, where necessary, replace, the connector.
If you visit a home with a gas cooker, check the brand and whether the owner has been contacted and if any action has been taken. If not, encourage them to contact the manufacturer via this website.
See the campaign poster for more
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Neighbourhood Watch Recognition Awards
These awards celebrate Neighbourhood Watch volunteers and groups who go above and beyond for their communities, recognising the hard work and commitment of all our volunteers, who make their neighbourhoods a better place to live.
If you know a Neighbourhood Watch volunteer or group who deserves an award, visit the website to find out more
Join the North West Tractor Pulling Club for an exciting tractor-pulling event featuring the best in UK and European competitions. The event, benefiting the NSPCC, includes three Euro Cup rounds and a British points round, showcasing classes like EuroCup Prostock, Light Modified, and Heavy Modified.
Attendees can enjoy farm tractors, trucks, live music, DJ sets, monster truck rides, kids’ entertainment, and more. Volunteers are needed for parking cars and selling raffle tickets on August 23-25, 2024, with various shifts available. To volunteer, contact [email protected]
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Appointment of Trustee – Dowager Countess Eleanor Peel Trust
The Trustees of the Dowager Countess Eleanor Peel Trust [DCEPT] are seeking to appoint a new Trustee with current or recent experience at a senior level in the third/charitable sector, in either an employed or Trustee/non-executive capacity, preferably in Lancashire or another part of the North West of England.
Applications for this position from women and/or people of colour are particularly welcomed. Colleagues recently retired from involvement in the third/charitable sector would also be welcome to apply. The remuneration/honorarium for Trustees is currently £4,500 per annum. Trustees can expect to spend an average of four hours per week on Trust matters.
The Trustee Role Description and Person Specification can be downloaded here. Further details of the Trust are available on its website at www.peeltrust.com.
Applications, comprising a letter of application and a brief curriculum vitae and the names of two referees should be sent to the Secretary, Dowager Countess Eleanor Peel Trust, at [email protected] by 5pm on July 12th 2024.
For informal enquiries about the position, please contact Professor Maggie Pearson, Chair of DCEPT Trustees at [email protected] who would be happy to hear from potential candidates and discuss the position.
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Puppy Raiser at Guide Dogs for the Blind
Are you a dog lover? Do you have some spare time? Would you like to make a difference to someone’s life? If you’ve answered yes to these questions, then this role could be perfect for you!
As a Puppy Raiser, you’ll provide a puppy with the vital foundation for its future role as a guide dog. You’ll be looking after a puppy for 12-16 months and will guide him or her through training, socialisation, the introduction of new environments and experiences whilst providing a loving home.
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Fundraiser at Guide Dogs for the Blind
The volunteer fundraiser will get involved with local events such as dog shows and fetes, interact with the community to raise awareness and funds, and act as an ambassador the charity.
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Trustee at West Lancashire Scouts
Trustees will help West Lancashire Scouts meet their charitable objectives and make sure they’re well governed, meeting five times a year in Preston. Potential trustees should have an understanding of the work of Scouts and personally align with the Nolan principles of public life.
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Digital Inclusion Volunteer at Galloways
This role will involve working with Learning Skills Coordinators to facilitate technology drop in days, help people get the most of their tech, including accessibility features, and help to deliver support at courses.
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Cafe Volunteer at Galloways
Galloways are looking for a barista and a cafe helper for their social enterprise Brew Me Sunshine. The roles involve making hot drinks, preparing food, using the till, and keeping the kitchen and coffee shop clean and hygienic.
Find out more about the Barista role
Find out more about the Cafe Helper role
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Volunteer Chairperson for Halton Community Association
The Halton Community Association is the organisation that oversees the running of The Centre @Halton and they are in need of a new chairperson. You will be responsible for supporting and encouraging the excellent staff at The Centre. You will ensure that each meeting is planned effectively, conducted according to the constitution and that all matters are dealt with in an orderly and effective manner.
This is an enjoyable and rewarding role and is a great way to gain new skills and to stay challenged if you are already retired or looking for new volunteering opportunities.
If you have questions, please contact [email protected] or call 01524 811316
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An hour of singing well known songs followed by a soup and roll lunch.
Aimed at dementia sufferers and their carers.
LDHAS are in need of volunteers to work in their kitchen to help provide breakfasts and lunches to the homeless; the hours that they need volunteers for are 9am to 1pm, Mon-Fri.
If people are interested in volunteering, they can get in touch via email ([email protected]) or phone 01524 842008.
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Super Heroes Wanted! Volunteer Car Scheme
Are you a car owner with a heart for helping others? Many patients in our community struggle with transportation to their appointments, and that’s where YOU come in!
By volunteering your time and vehicle, you can make a significant impact on someone’s life.
Here’s how it works:
- Sign up as a volunteer driver.
- Let us know your availability.
- Transport patients to and from their appointments.
- Get paid for your motoring expenses.
It’s a simple yet profoundly rewarding way to give back to your community. Your kindness and generosity can provide comfort and support to those who need it most. If you’re ready to lend a helping hand and be a beacon of hope for others, get in touch today to learn more about the Volunteer Car Scheme.
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Volunteer roles with Community Mind Connect CIC
- Digital marketing
- Community Outreach Coordination
- Event planning
- Graphic design
- Fundraising
![](https://lancastercvs.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Volunteers-Sponsors-MMF.jpg)
![](https://lancastercvs.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Volunteers-Sponsors-MMF.jpg)
Volunteers are needed to act as treasurer, secretary, and social media coordinator for the festival. You can see all three roles on our website.
You don’t need to know anything about Morecambe’s maritime past, or even maritime topics in general, to help with these roles, although obviously an interest in the subject would be an advantage. If you are interested in helping out you can apply via the link above, or you can contact the organiser directly, John Metcalfe, by emailing [email protected].
Please share these roles with your networks, or perhaps with someone you know who might be interested in them.
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Lancaster Health Festival Volunteers
The 2024 Lancaster Health Festival takes place on 13 and 14 July. Organisers are looking for volunteers to support the event by:
- giving out leaflets and directing people to activities
- general stewarding
- helping out on the smoothie bike
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Claver Hill – Tree Nursery Maintenance Volunteers
Claver Hill (LA1 3JY) needs help to maintain our Tree Nursery. We grow fruit trees and bushes to pass on to other community projects and now we are starting a native deciduous tree nursery growing from local seed.
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SAFE is in need of volunteers to support their Prop Up Project sessions working with young people in Morecambe, Carnforth, and Lancaster, working with young adults in Morecambe, as well as volunteers to support their Socialease sessions working with adults in Lancaster and Morecambe.
Under 18 Volunteering
We have recently had enquiries from parents and students looking for volunteering opportunities for people aged between 14 and 17. We asked registered VIOs whether they might have roles for under 18s and got a great response, so if YOU know a young person under 18 looking for a volunteering opportunity, we might be able to signpost them to something.
If your organisation has volunteering opportunities for under 18s and you haven’t already let us know, please email [email protected] with the details.
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Volunteer Opportunity Promotion and Recruitment
Have you registered on our website to promote your volunteer roles? By adding your opportunities to our website you will be making them available to the hundreds of people per month who check our site looking for something to do. You will also enable our team to easily and quickly signpost people to your roles, to give them the information that they need to decide whether they would like to apply.
Registering is quick and easy and you can do it here.
Once registered you will be able to add your roles. If you need any help, or have any questions, you can contact Mark by email at [email protected].
In addition to the website, the Volunteer Centre can promote your roles via our bulletins and newsletters; through attendance at in-person events such as volunteer fairs; in 121 meetings with potential volunteers; through visits to various support organisations; drop-in events at local Job Centres; by posting to our social media platforms; and through our bi-weekly column in the Lancaster Guardian.
If you would like to discuss any of this, including having space in our Lancaster Guardian column, please contact Mark.
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Volunteering Opportunity Help Guide
We have produced a guide to help you when adding an opportunity to our website – It is quite detailed and covers every possible question. You don’t need to follow it but please do look at it if you get stuck or if it isn’t clear which option to choose when going through the form to add new opportunities.
You can now also add more users to your account. Once registered, log in, hover on Account at the top of the dashboard and click ‘Users’, where you can add more users. This will be useful if you would like someone else to check applicant info and contact potential volunteers.
You can also now choose which category to add your opportunity under, to help people when searching for roles. If you can’t find an appropriate category just use the ‘default’ category and let us know what categories you would like to see added.
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DBS Checks
We offer a DBS check service, working in partnership with Burnley, Pendle, and Rossendale CVS. If you need DBS certificates for your staff or volunteers, please visit our website here.
Health & Wellbeing Support in the Lancaster District
Discover the Lancaster District Directory, your go-to resource for finding essential services offered by local community groups, the NHS, and local authorities. From health and fitness to mental wellbeing, financial advice, and job skills, this comprehensive directory has it all. Easily browse through detailed listings, contact information, and referral instructions to access the support you need.
Voluntary organisations can also participate at no cost, gaining visibility and facilitating referrals.
Explore the directory at directory.lancastercvs.org.uk and connect with services to enhance your wellbeing. For more information or to join, email [email protected] or call 01524 555900.
Help could be closer than you think!
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Let’s Talk About Suicide Lancashire
Tickets are now on sale for the “Let’s Talk About Suicide Lancashire” Conference, the first-ever suicide prevention conference for Blackpool and Lancashire. This groundbreaking event will bring together key stakeholders, experts and the community to address suicide prevention and provide support for those affected.
The event will share lived experience, support for children affected by suicide, raising awareness and providing support and discussing systemic change for the workplace and education. There will be collaborative discussions and a whole array of guest speakers from various organisations and professions related to suicide prevention. There will also be live music and workshops and the event is open to all sectors and the general public.
Time and Date: Wednesday the 2nd of October, 9am-5pm
Location: Village Hotel Blackpool, East Park Drive, Blackpool, FY3 8LL
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Get Ready for Summer Guidance
The Health Protection Team at Lancashire County Council have released essential guidance around having a safe, happy and healthy summer. Print the guide, share the document, or save useful links to refer to over the coming weeks.
Information includes:
- Holiday vaccinations and medication
- Staying hydrated
- Keeping safe in the sun
- Water safety
- Wildfire risks
- BBQ safety
- Tick awareness
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Healthy Relationships-Strengthening Families Sessions
To have a long, happy and healthy relationship within families, these sessions are a great opportunity to learn how to have productive discussions instead of arguments and lead by example as adults by encouraging healthy communication. If you would like some helpful strategies to help you through your parenting journey, then come along!
Locations: Lune Park Hub, Ryelands, Park Owen Road, Lancaster LA1 2LN
Times and Dates: 5:30pm-7:30pm
25th July 2024 | 22nd August 2024 | 26th September 2024 | 24th October 2024 | 28th November 2024
Westgate Neighbourhood Centre, Langridge Way, Morecambe, LA4 4XF
Times and Dates: 5:30pm-7:30pm
24th July 2024 | 28th August 2024 |25th September 2024 |23rd October 2024 | 27th November 2024
Please call 01524 581280 to book or book online
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CAMHS – Primary Mental Health Update
Free training places on Youth Mental Health First Aid on Monday 15th and Tuesday 16th July at Lancaster Uni – two full days must be attended. The course covers the prevalence of Mental health in children and young people and how to make an action plan to support young people with their mental health as well as the following topics – anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicide, psychosis and eating disorders.
If you aren’t already a MH champion, want to join the mailing list or attend the event/training above please email [email protected]
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Hidden Disabilities Carers Group
Carers and support workers involved with anyone suffering from Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s and hidden disabilities are invited to a new support group taking place on the second Monday of each month between 10am and 12 noon at The Bare Village Club, Bare Lane.
The group can help you find support in extreme situations and share your experiences over a brew.
For further information, contact Adria Weaving on 07359 756166.
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Wise Up Workshops: Hot Women
Join Clair, a Menopause Coach and Wellness Practitioner on a journey of discovery through your menopause. £2.50 donation, includes bottomless brews. Every month at 6-8pm.
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Smokefree Lancashire Step Challenge
From the 1st to the 31st of July, Smokefree Lancashire are holding an exciting event, the Tour De Steps: Preston to Paris. An inspiring event which promotes fitness, teamwork and an adventurous spirit. Their aim is to walk 808, 000 steps which is the distance from their Preston hub to the Eiffel Tower. You will celebrate with fun milestones, take part in mini-challenges and have a chance to win exciting prizes!
Join as individuals, teams or organisation and if walking isn’t an option, then there are alternative ways to take part.
For more information call 0808 1962 638
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Parkinson’s Coffee Morning
Garstang Methodist Church are holding mew coffee mornings for people who have Parkinson’s, family and friends. This is a great chance to socialise and also find out about Parkinson’s support and activities across Lancashire. The coffee mornings will be on the third Wednesday of the month.
£2 suggested donation to cover costs of refreshments.
Time & date: The next dates are August 21st and September 18th at 10:30-12:30pm. Location: Garstang Methodist Church, Park Hill Road, PR3 1EL
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Women’s Support Group at Stanleys
If you feel you need support or someone to talk to and would like to meet some new, friendly faces, then come along to the Women’s Support Group where you will be listened to in a safe and confidential space.
Tea and coffee is provided.
Time and Date: Wednesdays 10am-12pm
Location: Stanley’s Community Centre
For more info, please call 01524 410076
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Trans and Gender Diverse Health Needs Assessment
Local stakeholders who provide services to the TGD population are being encouraged to take part in a remote interview which will investigate the particular health needs and challenges experienced by TGD individuals across Lancashire.
This will cover aspects such as physical and mental health and well-being. For example, rates of smoking, drinking and physical activity. Topics also covered will include housing, employment and education along with healthcare services and barriers to accessing these.
Interviews will be expected to last about half an hour, will be semi-structured and both audio and visually recorded.
For further questions, please contact: Ellie Shackleton, Cumbria and Lancashire Public Health Collaborative [email protected] / [email protected]
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Stay Connected with Your Integrated Care Community (ICC)
Integrated Care Communities (ICCs) are integrated teams of health and care workers, third sector organisations, statutory organisations and wider community assets. We work together with the aim to improve physical & mental health outcomes, promote wellbeing and reduce health inequalities.
In the Lancaster District we have 3 ICCs, Lancaster, Bay and Carnforth. Each hosts a monthly online networking meeting which is a great opportunity to meet new partners, find out what is happening locally and share updates of your own. Each ICC also has a Facebook page and a monthly newsletter that goes out far and wide.
If you aren’t available to go along to a meeting but have something to share – don’t worry! Jenny, our Community Health Officer, attends each ICC and is very happy to update the meeting on your behalf – sharing items of news or events that are coming up.
Contacts for each of the ICC’s are below.
Lancaster ICC – Sarah Baines (development lead) – [email protected] / Lorraine Ducket (ICC admin) – [email protected]
Bay ICC – Anji Stokes (development lead) – [email protected] / Amy Dawson (ICC admin) – [email protected]
Carnforth ICC – Hayley Clarke (development lead) – [email protected] / Janette Wright (ICC admin) – [email protected]
Contact Jenny Reddell, Community Health Officer for LDCVS, at [email protected]
View the health coaching flyer
Coffee & Chat Sessions at Sandylands Primary School
Each week at Sandylands school there will be a coffee and chat session with the Sandylands Family Support Team. They will be joined by different agencies including the Children and Family Wellbeing Service, Citizens Advice Bureau and Lancaster City Council. The support sessions are on the last Friday of every month from 9am-10.30am.
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NSPCC Building Connections
This new online service supports young people up to the age of 19, empowering them to find a way through loneliness.
By working with trained befrienders, young people are guided, championed, and given tools that can help them build their confidence and better equip them to manage loneliness.
Find out more, including how to make referrals, on the NSPCC website
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NYA Workforce and Youth Survey Reports
The National Youth Agency is reporting on the results of research into the youth work sector’s workforce, and the responses of young people into youth work provision. With these reports, the NYA wants to influence decision-makers, funders and training partners to rebuild the sector and deliver for young people.
Read the results of the Workforce Survey, and the Youth Survey
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North West Net Zero Youth Steering Group
Young people aged 13 – 19 and passionate about saving the planet and helping our region achieve net zero carbon emissions are invited to join the NWNZ Youth Steering Group. They will play an active role in designing youth events, platforming young people’s views, and influencing decision makers.
As a group member for a year, they will attend weekly online sessions between October and January, and monthly sessions thereafter.
Apply here before 19 July, or email [email protected] to find out more.
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Escape2Make Green Festival
The Green Festival still have some spaces available on their free workshops during the summer holidays. These workshops improve young people’s self-confidence, artistic ability and each of them involves environmentally friendly elements. The workshops include graphic design, outdoor animation, photography, music, wild cooking, healthy drink making and much more!
Check out the Escape2Make site to see what they have to offer and to sign up for their workshops.
Location: West End Gardens, Morecambe
Date: Saturday 24th August 2024
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Westminster Foundation Youth Voice Survey
The Westminster Foundation is seeking insights from youth experts and caregivers to better understand the challenges and opportunities faced by young people. Please share this survey link or QR code with guardians, carers, local school staff, and youth aged 12-25. The deadline for responses is August 7th.
For queries, email [email protected]. Your participation is essential and appreciated in helping the Foundation refine their funding priorities to benefit more communities.
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Lancaster and Morecambe Prince’s Trust
The next programme delivered by Lancashire Fire & Rescue Service’s Morecambe Team starts on the 16th September and they are recruiting now!
Please see their programme leaflet to find out more.
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Survey on Employment Barriers in Local Anchor Organisations
The Bay Anchor Network is conducting a survey to identify employment barriers within local anchor organisations like the NHS, Council, and Universities. This will help create recommendations to improve recruitment from underrepresented communities. Encourage young people, especially those not in work or training, to participate via the link below or the provided PDFs below. Participants can enter a draw to win a £50 Amazon gift card. The survey runs until July 31, 2024. For questions, contact [email protected].
Survey link: Barriers to Employment Survey
- A printable PDF of the survey (paper version)
- A printable PDF of the focus group guide (paper version)
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Kooth Webinar
Kooth is available for your students all through the summer – their professional mental health practitioners support young people with whatever’s on their mind, from loneliness, family or friendship issues, to body image, self-harm or suicidal thoughts.
The North West team are running a webinar for all professionals working with young people, taking place on the 24th July, 3:30 – 4:00. For a link to attend, email [email protected]
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Happy Healthy Holidays for Children in the Lancaster District
From 3rd July, children and young people receiving free school meals can enjoy free activities through the Summer break with the Holiday Activities and Food Programme (HAF). Funded by the Department for Education, this initiative offers exciting opportunities for local eligible children to engage in fun activities and enjoy nutritious meals each day, at no cost.
The programme includes provisions for children with SEND or additional needs and runs from 22nd July to 30th August 2024. E-vouchers will be sent directly to eligible families for booking activities.
Explore the activities available here
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Moving On Up
Young people starting high school in September 2024 can attend these sessions to meet other children who may be going to the same school in a fun setting and take part in activities that will help them prepare.
Issues tackled will include what is needed for high school, how to deal with emotions, and developing new friendships.
Carnforth Hub: Monday 29th July, 5th, 12th and 19th August 2024, 3:30pm – 4:30pm
Morecambe Library: Tuesday 30th July, 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th August 2024, 3:30pm-4:30pm
Lune Park Hub: Thursday 1st August, 8th August,15th August, 22nd and 29th August 2024, 3:30pm – 4:30pm
No need to book, just turn up on the day. (Please note you may need to fill out a registration form if you are not already registered)
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Wise Up Workshops Latest Programmes
Wise Up Workshops have a wide variety of workshops covering many different needs or interests. These are all held at The Plaza Hub, Morecambe, LA4 5YJ.
For all enquiries please call 07506295782
Drawing and Talking
These sessions are for children who have underlying emotional difficulties or who have some form of emotional trauma and are held by a qualified practitioner.
If interested in their 12 week one to one programme please contact: [email protected]
Creative Saturdays
For ages 4-16. All abilities welcome. This workshop will include and encourage, performance skills, singing, confidence building, creative movement, arts and crafts and life skills.
Trial Date: 13th of July, 10am every week starting September.
Life Wise
For those aged 16-25 who are feeling a bit lost or finding school, college or uni a bit of a challenge and would like to learn new skills.
Time and Date: Wednesdays, 6-8pm
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Lancashire Family Hubs and Children & Family Wellbeing Service in July
Here is the latest from the Lancashire Family Hubs and Children & Family Wellbeing Service for the next month:
At a glance poster of events
What’s on guide for July
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Morecambe Library Summer Squad
School’s Out For Summer! Morecambe Library will be holding some fun activities over the summer for kids aged 8-11.
Times and Dates: 1-3:30pm every Monday – 29/7, 5/8, 12/8 and 19/8.
Call 01524 581280 for more information.
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Escape2Make
Escape2Make are excited to announce they are launching 12 FREE new creative programmes! These workshops are open to 11–18 year-olds living in the Morecambe and Lancaster area. These groups are a wonderful opportunity to meet new friends, learn new skills, gain confidence and make for an unforgettable summer! E2M will be running their second Green Festival from the 20th of July-24th of August. To name just a handful of these creative groups, there will be Pottery, Theatrical performance, Photography, a VR campfire and kite-making and flying. There will be something for everyone!
Volunteers are also welcome if you want to get involved but are over 18. 11–18 year-olds sign up at www.escape2make.org from June 17th
For any queries, please contact the Escape2Make team at [email protected]
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Lancashire Constabulary- Youth Independent Advisory Group (YIAG) Panel
Lancashire Constabulary are looking for more volunteers to join their Youth Independent Advisory Group. They are looking for people who live in Lancashire and are aged between 14 – 21 years old to help by giving honest and constructive feedback about policing policies and matters to senior officers with in the police.
The meetings will be monthly at the Force Headquarters on the outskirts of Preston on the last Wednesday evening of every month. Each meeting, a new subject matter will be discussed where YIAG’s will be able to provide their thoughts, experiences and advice to improve policy.
For more information please follow the link
If you have any questions about this role contact [email protected]
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First Tracks Snowsports Experiences
First Tracks provides young people (aged 13-21) with their first experience of snowsports at indoor snow centres in the UK throughout July and August every year. Over two days young people will learn how to ski or snowboard and will take part in life skills sessions focusing on independence, responsibility, confidence and self-esteem.
LABGC can help young people enrol on these courses. If you work with a young person who could benefit, email [email protected]
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The Democracy Classroom
Supporting young people to engage in elections, the Democracy Classroom website holds over 700 non-partisan resources on elections and voting from over 100 organisations in the education, youth and democracy sectors.
The website is being updated regularly and contains lessons, explainers and games, and much more to help you engage with the young people you work with.
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Family Hubs Coffee & Connect
The online coffee afternoon for parents and carers takes place every Thursday afternoon from 1pm, providing information and advice, access to help from the Children & Family Wellbeing Service and signposting to local agencies as well as peer support opportunities.
Email [email protected] to get the Teams link.
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Volunteering opportunities for young people under 18
A number of organisations have indicated that they will consider offering volunteering opportunities to people under 18. You can contact CVS or the organisation directly for more information.
Bay Volunteers work with young people to carry out some of their missions
Police Cadet recruitment opened in April, ages 13 to 17.
Marsh Community Centre has a food club that they need volunteers for, Thursdays 10am til 1pm.
The Centre@Halton can possibly offer a couple of hours on either a Saturday or Sunday in the Coffee Shop (open 10am to 5pm) helping to take orders, prepare drinks and snacks.
The Salvation Army charity shop in Carnforth offers volunteering roles to 14 and 15 year olds specifically to support DofE completion, offering different hours on Saturdays and Sundays depending on whether it’s bronze or silver.
The Global Village Cafe have said that they’re open to under 18s taking part, but there is no regular schedule/opportunity. Keep an eye on their website – and contacting around the times when events are coming up.
St Johns Hospice take volunteers for their shops from age 14 upwards.
Ryelands Junior Park Run have said that they can offer various roles for people under 18 to help towards the DofE award.
West Lancashire Scouts (they cover the whole of this side of Lancashire) have roles for younger people as part of their young leaders work.
The YMCA charity shop in Lancaster is happy to take a 15 year old volunteer, however some paperwork will need to be completed by parent/guardian beforehand though. The role is not customer-facing and is mainly sorting/tagging stock (mostly clothing) and tidying the shop.
Claver Hill is a food growing project in Lancaster and they will take people under 18 but only if they are accompanied by an adult.
The NHS has a work placement scheme. It is for people aged 16 and above only and people can check out the ‘placements’ section here. Their next recruitment window has just opened in May.
Please do contact [email protected] if you would like to add your organisation to this growing list.
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Exciting Opportunity for Young Leaders in the West End of Morecambe
Are you a young person aged 15-18 in the West End area of Morecambe? Do you want to make a difference in mental health support for your community? Take part in designing and delivering a grants program worth £20,000 to support mental health initiatives in the West End. Gain valuable experience, receive training, and make a real impact! Each participant will also receive a £100 voucher.
Funded by West End Big Local and facilitated by LDCVS. Contact [email protected] or call 01524 555900 to learn more.
Possibilities Sharing Afternoon
Do you have an idea to help create a zero-waste, circular, and regenerative local economy? Share it at our upcoming networking event and discover how collaboration can lead to greater achievements for everyone. The Closing Loops partnership is excited to announce the second round of the Pots of Possibility Your Pots funding strand. In response to the feedback from the first round, we’ve organised this event to develop early collaboration, enhance coordination, and inspire innovative proposals. Come along and learn about previously funded projects, explore future possibilities, and network around key themes. Everyone is welcome!
Date: Tuesday, 6th August 2024
Time: 1.30 – 3.30pm
Location: The Cornerstone, Sulyard Street, Lancaster, LA1 1PX
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Lancaster District Green Spaces Autumn Forum & Parks Week
Join Lancaster District Green Spaces for their next Forum on Saturday, 14th September 2024 at The Gregson, 33 – 35 Moor Gate, Lancaster LA1 3PY. The meeting will start at 6:30 PM, following a guided walk around Miss Whalley’s Field at 5:30 PM.
This session is an experiment with a later time and a Saturday meeting, based on feedback from the June Forum. The organisers are keen to know how this works for everyone, so please provide feedback. Come straight from work and enjoy a highly recommended pie or pizza from The Gregson. Everyone is welcome, including kids!
Note: Details of the speaker and topic will be announced soon.
For more events, check out Love Parks Week from 12th – 21st July at various parks in Lancaster.
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Pots of Possibility Your Pots
After the Pots of Possibility Your Pots voting event last November, the Filberts Too social enterprise was awarded a grant for work to support food clubs and run baking courses. Following the sad news of the decision to close the Filberts bakery, Filberts Too were unable to continue with their plans and immediately returned their grant to LDCVS.
Our agreed process for making grants from the Your Pots fund means that if a project is unable to proceed, we talk to the organisation with the highest voted “unsuccessful” project with the intention of concluding a grant agreement.
We’re pleased to let you know that The Butterfly Effect CIC have been awarded a grant for activities in and around Cockerham including creating a vegetable and medicinal garden, providing educational workshops, opening a community fridge, and holding seasonal community gatherings. Congratulations to Michelle and her colleagues!
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New North Lancs Food Hub Launching Soon!
FoodFutures is launching “Gather,” an online shop for seasonal, local produce including vegetables, fruits, meat, dairy, honey, and sauces. By shopping at Gather, you support local growers, reduce food miles, and promote a resilient food system. The hub seeks community hosts for food collection points. Interested parties can email [email protected].
Visit Gather North Lancs Food Hub
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Summer THRIVE magazine: Access to Land
The new summer edition of THRIVE magazine is out! It explores different ways communities are overcoming barriers and working to access land for food growing, wellbeing and landscape regeneration.
Read THRIVE online or pick up a hard copy from a community space near you.
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Lancaster District Allotment Review Published
An independent review of allotment sites across Lancaster District has been published, examining current allotment provisions, usage, biodiversity contributions, climate resilience, and demand. It offers recommendations to support the future thriving of allotments and explores other community-led food growing models and support needs.
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Call for Land for Community Farm and Education Centre
LESS, a Lancaster-based social enterprise, is seeking support from Lancaster District’s food and community networks to find a landowner willing to sell land for a community farm and education centre. The initiative aims to establish 10-60 acres for agroecological food growing, education, small enterprises, and community initiatives promoting a healthy, resilient, and fair local food system.
This project aligns with North Lancashire’s FoodFutures partnership and offers a unique model for community land use.
For more information, refer to recent press coverage by the Lancaster Guardian and Beyond Radio or contact Ellen Pearce to support this initiative.
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Where does waste go in North Lancashire?
Have you ever wondered where all the waste goes that is produced by households, businesses and institutions in North Lancashire?
A new report on ongoing research by researcher and activist Victoria Frausin tracks this burning question, explores key challenges and outlines creative and collaborative ways we can work towards solutions – including a growing Don’t Ditch It Directory map for Lancaster District.
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Claver Hill Accessible Nature Trail Open Day
You are invited to celebrate the opening of the Claver Hill Accessible Nature Trail: a surface suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, where local residents can enjoy nature or participate in the many community projects on site.
Come along to find out about Spud Club, where you can help out and share the harvest, or their other initiatives: Seed Library, Flower Farm, Beekeeping, Natural Dyes, Global Link Food Growing Project and the Tree Nursery and Poly Tunnels.
There will be guided walks and fun activities for all the family, tea, coffee and cakes available and a stall selling our preserves and surplus produce.
(There is limited parking at Claver Hill – if driving, please park near Central Lancaster High School)
Date & time: Saturday 27th July 2024 1pm to 4pm
Location: Claver Hill – Ridge Lane – LA1 3JY
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A Growers’ Co-operative for North Lancashire
The idea for a local growers’ co-operative emerged out of the 2023 FoodFutures FarmStart training. The cooperative would allow people to put in the time that suits their other commitments rather than having to go all in on starting a business. It could also link into other projects through FoodFutures (view FoodFutures’ other collaborative projects here).
If you are interested in this idea as a potential participant, customer or landlord, please contact Andi Chapple at [email protected] or 07891 908025.
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Lancaster District Food Justice Partnership’s One-Year Action Plan
The Lancaster District Food Justice Partnership has published its new One-Year Action Plan to tackle food poverty within the Lancaster District.
The strategic plan celebrates and recognises the partnership’s successes over the last three years while looking to the future and how it can best support the community over the coming year. It focuses on sustaining and strengthening the food network it has worked hard to develop.
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Wildlife Wellbeing Walks & Marsh Community Centre
The Pots of Possibility grant programme has funded a collaboration between Wildlife Wellbeing Walks and Marsh Community Centre, which aims to bring people together with themes around connection, food, environment and sustainability.
As well as sessions for the centre’s regular youth groups, Gardening Club, and Coffee & Cake club, a series of events will take place one Saturday a month:
- Cooking for All: Sharing Lunch – 27 July, 1pm – 3pm, £1 per person
- Harvest-time Family Day – 28 September, 1pm – 3pm, 50p per person
- Halloween Pumpkins: Carving & Cooking – 26 October, 1.30pm – 3pm, £1 per child
Tickets for all events are available in the Centre.
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Open Space Assessment in the District Consultation
Do you live in the Lancaster District and visit our open spaces?
Lancaster City Council officers in Planning Policy and Public Realm are working together with consultants Ethos Environmental Planning to produce a new Open Space Assessment for the District.
This will be used as a key piece of evidence to help inform the preparation of the Local Plan review, by identifying and assessing open spaces to better understand the needs of the District and where there might be deficiencies in provision, which in turn will be used to establish a set of standards that can be used to calculate developer contributions towards the enhancement of existing open spaces.
The planning team are keen to understand more about how residents use and value local public open spaces and recreation facilities; and what might improve their attractiveness to local people. This will provide invaluable information to assess if there are any gaps in provision and to ensure that existing facilities and open spaces are managed effectively to meet the needs of the local people.
It would be much appreciated if you would be able to take 5-10 minutes to complete an online survey which can be found on their consultation hub.
There is also the opportunity to add any site specific comments you may like to make on an interactive map.
Lancaster BID Summer Sundays
Sponsored by Marketgate Shopping Centre, these events will take place every Sunday from 21 July between 11.30am and 3.30pm. The programme will feature live music, circus skills and giant outdoor games.
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Global Dance Nights with Global Link at The Gregson
Global Link will be hosting 10 world music dance nights with occasional live performance at the Gregson Centre for asylum seekers, refugees and local people to have a safe space to meet, hear good music, and dance!
It will be free for refugees and ‘pay as you feel’ for everyone else, but drinks need to be bought at the bar.
The first event will be Friday, August 2nd, 8 – 12 pm.
See the poster to find out more
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Trading for Good School for Social Entrepreneurs
The Trading for Good programme provides funding, education and support for social entrepreneurs and community businesses across England. Through this free programme you will learn from experts, and others like you, to grow your community business and you will also receive a Match Trade Grant of up to £4k to support you to develop trading income streams. This is a great opportunity to develop skills such as generating income, adapting to changing external environments and positively impacting your community.
Dates: 17 Dec 2024 – 1 Aug 2025
Duration: 12 days over 9 months starting in December 2024
Location: Birmingham, London, Manchester
Read more about the programme and register your interest
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The Comedy of Errors at Lancaster Castle
When two sets of estranged twins are brought together on the same island, this classic comedy takes hold, with mistaken identity, music and manic costume changes a plenty. Join The Handlebards for a bicycle-powered production of Shakespeare’s ‘The Comedy of Errors’ like you’ve never seen before coming to Lancaster in August.
Pedalling from venue to venue with all of their set, props and costumes on the back of their bikes, the HandleBards are a four-strong troupe of actors who are spending the summer bringing environmentally sustainable Shakespeare to venues across the UK. This is an outdoor production, so it is encouraged to bring a chair or blanket to sit on, a picnic to dig into, and to dress for the weather!
Date & time: Friday 9 August 2024, 7-9pm
Location: Lancaster Castle
Further details and bookings here
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Lancaster Music Festival Academy
Are you aged 14-25 and interested in a career in the music industry? Lancaster Music Festival are running LMF Academy at The Gregson Centre, Lancaster from August 13th – 15th – an exciting series of FREE workshops led by industry professionals, including Lancaster’s very own LOWES and Massive Wagons!
It’s a fantastic opportunity to develop your skills and learn more about the elements of music that you’re interested in, from Song writing, sound tech and stagecraft, to promotion and marketing and production and recording.
Tickets are FREE but space is limited.
Find out more and book your spot
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Location: Williamson Park, Lancaster
Time and Date: 9am-5pm, Sunday 28th of July 2024
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SafeTALK – Free Suicide Alertness Training
SafeTALK helps participants become alert to suicide. Suicide-alert people are better prepared to connect persons with thoughts of suicide with life-affirming help. Over the course of their training, SafeTALK participants will learn to:
- Notice and respond to situations where suicide thoughts may be present,
- Recognize that invitations for help are often overlooked,
- Move beyond the common tendency to miss, dismiss, and avoid suicide,
- Apply the TALK steps: Tell, Ask, Listen, Keep Safe, and
- Know community resources and how to connect someone with thoughts of suicide to them for further suicide-safer help
Please see the safeTALK fact sheet for further details on the course
To make a booking please complete the appropriate booking form in full and return to [email protected]
29 July, 1pm – 4:30pm at St Thomas’ Church Lancaster.
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Inequalities In, and Barriers to, Mental Health Services for Older People Throughout Lancashire
Have you ever wondered why some older people may be reluctant to talk about their mental health, or seek the help they need when they are stressed, anxious or struggling with their thoughts and feelings?
Would you like to have a better understanding of the things which have influenced their early lives, and shaped their views on mental health throughout the decades?
Would you like to know more about the reasoning behind their outlook on mental health, and mental health services?
Would you like to be engaged in the solutions?
This free 3.5 hour course developed by Positive Action in the Community and funded by Spring North / Community Mental Health Team is being delivered on 29 June (9am – 12:30pm) or 19 November (1pm – 4:30pm) at St Thomas’ Church Lancaster.
Sessions via Zoom are also available.
1.5 hours of individual learning is required prior to starting the course and full details will be provided.
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Summer of Sport Quiz & Fun Afternoon
Join in with a Summer of Sport, Quiz, and Fun Afternoon at Morecambe Cricket Club on Sunday, July 21st! The event kicks off at 2pm, with the quiz starting at 2:30pm.
It’s just £5 per person (max 6 per team), and all proceeds go to SAFE. Booking is essential, so gather your team and secure your spot today! Contact 07568 937 988 or [email protected]. Don’t miss out on an afternoon of fun and support a great cause!
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A Summer Soirée in memory of Sue Widden
Sue Widden played a huge role in the local community. She was dedicated to supporting Lancaster and its people and was closely associated with Citizens Advice North Lancashire, The Judges’ Lodgings Museum, Lancaster District Textile and Stitch Group and Lancaster and District Homeless Action Service.
Sue was a formidable campaigner with a passion for people and social justice.
On Thursday 1st August at the Judges’ Lodgings Museum in Lancaster from 6pm-8pm, Sue’s family and friends invite you to join them to celebrate her life with live music and memories. You will have the chance to find out more about the organisations and charities close to Sue’s heart and money raised that evening will go to these causes.
Tickets are £10, via Trybooking.
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Peer Partnership Training Opportunities
The Peer Partnership have a series of quarterly, online workshops available from 6th August 2024 for VCSE, local authority and health sector workers. If you are interested in commissioning a session exclusively for your organisation, please see details of their Training for Professionals on their website, which gives all the details of the workshops they can provide either in-person or online.
For further information please email [email protected] or call on 0117 955 5038.
How to Design Peer Support
Dates: 6th Aug 2024, 5th Nov 2024, 4th Feb 2025 (09:30-13:30)
Focus: Plan and implement peer support programs for health organisations and VCSEs.
Boundaries in the VCSE Workplace
Dates: 15th Aug 2024, 21st Nov 2024, 20th Feb 2025 (12:30-16:30)
Focus: Establish and maintain professional and personal boundaries in VCSEs.
Group Dynamics and Facilitation
Dates: 20th Aug 2024, 19th Nov 2024, 18th Feb 2025 (09:30-13:30)
Focus: Understand and manage group dynamics in support settings.
Recognising and Responding to Challenging Behaviour
Dates: 3rd Sept 2024, 26th Nov 2024, 25th Feb 2025 (12:30-16:30)
Focus: Recognise and de-escalate challenging behaviours in service users.
Each workshop costs £50 per person.
For more details and registration, visit the Eventbrite link
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Good Things Collective launched ‘Art Club’ at their creative studios on Northumberland Street, Morecambe this week.
Thursday Mornings, 10am – 12.30pm
FREE tea and coffee
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Introduction to Project Management
Do you plan and run projects in your role? Whatever type of project, there is a set process you can follow to make everything run smoothly.
This half-day session will introduce you to this process, which you will be able to use for any future project, no matter how simple or complex.
By the end of this interactive and informative session, you will have an understanding of:
- How to define a project and Project Definition Statements
- Tools for planning projects
- How to evaluate the effectiveness of a project
- The most important documents and records to develop, maintain and use for managing projects
£20 for LDCVS members, £35 for non-members.
17 September, 9:30am – 1pm at the Employer Hub, Lancaster & Morecambe College
Find out more and book your ticket
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Make Every Contact Count Train the Trainer
This free one-day course equips participants to develop their knowledge, skills and confidence to offer public health and wellbeing messages, via very brief interventions, to clients/patients/colleagues/family/friends during the course of their day-to-day role/life.
It will help individuals embed the Make Every Contact Count (MECC) methodology in their personal lives and at work (including cascading it throughout their organisation)
Courses are taking place throughout 2024 at various locations across Lancashire.
Find out more, and use the application form to register your attendance
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Irish Sea Day
Celebrate the Irish Sea’s wildlife and natural heritage at this free, family-friendly event. Enjoy a variety of interactive activities, including: guided walks, rock pooling, marine wildlife sea-watching, beach clean-ups, coastal wellbeing sessions and more on the Irish Sea. Don’t miss the lively fancy dress parade at 1:30pm! Dress in marine-themed costumes and join in the fun.
Book your free general admission and workshop tickets online. Workshops are 45 minutes each and repeat throughout the event.
Saturday 27 July, 10am-4pm
Half Moon Bay Café, Heysham
Finance & Administration Officer – LBAGC
Lancashire Boys & Girls Clubs seeks a Finance & Administration Officer to monitor income & expenditure and handle general office duties, including purchasing, invoicing, petty cash, and record-keeping. Ideal candidates will have financial recording experience, proficiency in Sage Accounts online, and excellent ICT skills.
Salary: £24,000 to £25,000 pro-rata, (depending on qualifications / experience)
Contract: 30 hours per week (over 5 days)/Permanent (renewable annually subject to funding).
Location: Lancaster (some travel will be involved)
Closing date: Sunday 28th July 2024, midnight.
Applications close at midnight on 28th July 2024.
For more details and to apply or contact Adrian French at [email protected]
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Volunteer Coordinator with CancerCare
CancerCare is seeking a highly motivated person with a passion for managing a diverse team of volunteers. You will play a key role in recruiting, training and supporting new and existing volunteers and ensuring the team is inclusive, cohesive and well trained to support the incredible work that CancerCare does.
Salary: £24,979 per annum
Contract: 37.5 hours per week
Location: Lancaster, Kendal or Barrow Centre (on-site)
Closing date: Friday 9 August 2024
To apply email your completed application form and current CV to [email protected]
Find out more about this role and apply
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Case Worker/Youth Worker at CancerCare
This role involves with young people in groups and offering 1-2-1 support to those who have further needs identified by either Peer Support staff or CancerCare’s Therapists.
All the young people are engaged in the service because of a cancer diagnosis or bereavement through any reason within their family or friendship group. In addition, they may need support for numerous other life issues which including anxiety, isolation, loneliness, and relationships.
Salary: £17,959 per annum
Contract: 24 hours per week (Tuesday – Thursday), fixed term to October 2025
Location: Lancaster
Closing date: 16 August
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Specialist Community Support Worker – Together Trust
The Together Trust is seeking a Specialist Community Support Worker for their supported living services, with a focus on empowering adults with complex needs like learning difficulties and autism to gain independence and inclusion in the community.
Salary: £23,412 per annum
Contract: Full-time, permanent
Location: Northwest (on-site)
Closing date: 12 August 2024, 10.59pm
Find out more about this role and apply
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Careers in Adult Services
Lancashire County Council have introduced Living Better Lives in Lancashire. This new vision is all about supporting people to live their life in their own way and focuses on what they can do, rather than what they can’t, using the support at the heart of the community.
They are looking for new caring and compassionate people to help them achieve this vision and you can be part of this by applying for one of their rewarding jobs! There is a wide variety of environments to work in and the roles include older people, those with disabilities and other care needs.
Find out more about these services and their online recruitment events here!
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Development & Engagement Officer with CancerCare
CancerCare are seeking a Development & Engagement Officer to promote and develop the charity’s services. Key duties include engaging with the NHS, employers, and stakeholders, promoting the charity at events, and identifying service development opportunities.
The officer will also assist with volunteer training, support CancerCare groups, manage client referrals, and collaborate with marketing. The role involves upholding the charity’s reputation, attending meetings, planning workloads, completing training, and performing additional duties as needed.
Salary £15,304 per annum
Contract: 22.5 hours per week
Location: Barrow or Kendal
Closing date: Friday 2 August 2024
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Group Chief Executive with Oaklea Group
The Oaklea Group, based in Kendal, Cumbria, seeks a new Group CEO following the retirement of the previous CEO. The role involves leading the organisation, managing administration and finances, and working with the Board to develop long-term strategies. The position offers a salary of £87,000 per year, with benefits including a pension, health care plan, gym discounts, and more.
Salary: £87,000 per year
Contract: Full time, permanent
Location: Kendal, Cumbria
Closing date: 29 July 2024, 9am
Applications are open until 9am, Monday 29th July 2024.
Find out more about this role and apply
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Shop Manager at Oxfam Lancaster
Oxfam seeks Shop Managers to lead their charity shops, driving sales and community engagement. Managers motivate volunteer teams, maintain high standards, and pursue business opportunities. Key responsibilities include leadership, team-building, delegation, and effective communication.
Managers are the only paid staff in a volunteer-driven environment and are vital for shop success. Oxfam values diversity, safeguarding, and inclusiveness, and encourages applications from diverse backgrounds. Applicants must demonstrate leadership, commercial awareness, and a commitment to Oxfam’s principles.
Salary: £25,322 per annum
Contract: Full-time, permanent
Location: Lancaster, Lancashire
Closing date: 19 July 2024, 3.30pm
Apply online with a CV and cover letter
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Children’s Residential Support Worker (EBD) – Together Trust
The Together Trust seeks a Children’s Residential Support Worker to support children and young people with Emotional and Behavioural Disorders. This full-time role involves working in a nurturing home environment, supporting their physical, emotional, and social needs.
No prior childcare experience is necessary. Applicants should have good communication skills, the ability to work both independently and in a team, and a driving license is desirable. The Together Trust is a Real Living Wage employer.
Salary: £23,412 (£12.01 per hour)
Contract: Permanent/ full-time/ 37.5 hours per week worked on a 7-day rota with 2 non-working days each week.
Location: Offerton, Stockport
Closing date: 30 July 2024, 10.59pm
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Kentown Family Support Worker – Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity
The Rainbow Trust is hiring two Kentown Family Support Workers for Blackpool and Cumbria areas. The role involves providing emotional, social, and practical support to families with children facing life-threatening or terminal illnesses. Applicants should have experience in child health, education, or social care, and possess strong communication and IT skills.
Salary: £21,000 annual salary plus Company Car
Contract: Full-time/permanent
Location: Blackpool and Cumbria
Closing date: 30 July 2024, 11.59pm
Find out more about this role and apply
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Chef – Homeless Action
Homeless Action, a charity supporting single homeless individuals, seeks a part-time Chef in central Blackpool. Responsibilities include preparing nutritious meals, planning menus, managing volunteers, and providing basic life skills training. Ideal candidates will have catering experience, preferably in supported housing or similar settings, and possess good people skills.
Salary: £12 per hour
Contract: Part-time (18 hours per day)
Location: Blackpool (Hostels & Cafe@264)
Closing date: 31 July 2024, 12pm
Apply by completing the application pack and returning it to the Housing Services Manager, Laura Cooper.
Full details about this role and application
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Case Manager – Victim Support
Victim Support is seeking a Case Manager for their Lancashire team in Blackpool. The role involves providing intensive case management to high-risk domestic abuse perpetrators, collaborating with agencies to create strategic intervention plans, and ensuring victims’ safety. Applicants should have experience in domestic abuse risk management and hold a full driving license.
Salary: Up to £28,050 per annum
Contract: Full-time, 37.5 hours per week
Location: Blackpool
Closing date: 23 July 2024
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Mental Health Practitioner with Barnardo’s
Barnardo’s is hiring a Practitioner for their Emotional Health and Wellbeing Team in Blackpool to support children and young people in Lancashire and South Cumbria. The role involves providing 1:1 wellbeing sessions, therapeutic group work, and emotional support. Applicants should have experience in direct emotional support, case management, and a flexible approach to delivery methods.
Salary: £27,573 – £36,389 per year
Contract: Full-time, permanent
Location: Blackpool
Closing date: 21 July 2024, 10.37am
Find out more about this role and apply
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Counsellor/Therapist with Barnardo’s
Barnardo’s is hiring therapists to support children and young people’s emotional wellbeing in Lancashire and South Cumbria. The role involves providing one-to-one therapy, group work, and counselling. Candidates must have a diploma in counselling or a related field, significant experience in counselling children, and a comprehensive understanding of safeguarding.
Salary: £30,194 – £40,708 per year FTE (£26,930.64-£36,307.18 Pro-Rata)
Contract: Part-time, permanent
Location: Morecambe, Lancashire
Closing date: 21 July 2024 at 1.11pm
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]