Information and Advice for the Lancaster District’s Third Sector – 29 August 2024
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 telling us about some practical actions you think we could take as a CVS and as a sector to help improve our environment. Everyone can answer, no matter what you do in your organisation.
Click headings below to expand each section.
We Asked, You Said: Your Wish
Over the last couple of weeks we asked you to imagine you’d been granted a wish, and tell us how you’d use it to improve the Lancaster district. Your responses cohered around four key areas:
- Improving our physical environment, such as regenerating derelict areas, developing old buildings, and planting trees.
- Improving our transport options, particularly public transport, cycle infrastructure, and footpaths.
- Tackling problems of money and housing, such as poverty, homelessness, and the quality of housing stock.
- Improving community relations and cohesion.
We’d like to spend some time considering how our sector can take practical action in all four of these areas, and we’ll ask you more about your ideas over the coming weeks.
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Update Regarding Recent Riots and Community Unrest
Following recent events concerning disturbances in the community our Chief Officer has shared an important update. Lancaster District CVS, in collaboration with VCSEP and NAVCA, is committed to providing support information, rebuilding trust, and coordinating local network meetings for community cohesion and mutual aid.
“Dear Colleague, Friend and Supporter,
We hope this message finds you well. As part of our commitment to keeping you informed, we want to address recent events related to the unrests across our communities. As the membership body for the local voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise sector, we are working in partnership with the VCSEP (Voluntary and Community Sector Emergencies Partnership), NAVCA (National Association for Voluntary Community Action), our local partners to support our members and our partners who are:
- Working to get messages out across communities and community organisations on the support available, how to stay safe.
- Working with the voluntary community faith and social enterprise sector, our partners and others to start to rebuild trust and develop cohesive communities.
- Helping with local coordination of network meetings in order to provide mutual support and share resources between members and partners.
We understand that these events will have caused significant concern and distress. The safety and well-being of everyone in our community are our top priorities. During these challenging times, it is crucial to stay informed and take appropriate precautions to ensure your safety and that of your colleagues, volunteers, and people that use your services. We offer our support to community groups and charities so please do contact us if you have concerns or if you have any support need, we will do our best to help.
We will continue monitoring the situation and provide further updates and advice as needed.
Our thoughts remains with all those affected and thank you for your dedication to our community.
Stay safe and take care.
Sincerely,
Yakub Patel
Chief Executive Officer
Lancaster District Community and Voluntary Solutions
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FestiVOL 2024 – Save the Date!
Our third annual celebration of the Lancaster district’s voluntary sector takes place on Thursday 21 November at Lune Valley Methodist Hub.
As always, this promises to be a enjoyable day full of excitement and networking opportunities as we invite you all to share your successes, learn from each other, and make plans for the future.
We’ll be joined by several guest speakers who will talk in detail about recent projects before breaking out into workshops focusing on themes including the challenges and achievements of our colleagues working in rural areas, how community organisations can change our local economy, and how getting active physically and mentally can improve health and build connections.
Bringing our sector together has been a highlight of our autumn for the last few years, and we’re really excited to be finalising our plans for 2024. We’ll be sending out full information and a booking link in mid-September – so for now we’d love it if you could save the date!
Heat Networks Funding Stream Opens New Round (England and Wales)
The Heat Networks Delivery Unit (HNDU) provides grants and guidance to local authorities, registered social landlords, NHS Trusts, and other eligible organisations in England and Wales for the development of heat networks. Round 14 is open for applications until October 31, 2024. Funding supports the early stages of project development, excluding construction and operational costs.
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UK Space Agency Launches £760,000 Rocketry Competition Fund
The UK Space Agency’s Rocketry Competition Fund is offering grants up to £250,000 to UK organisations for developing or continuing rocketry competitions aimed at students. The total fund is £760,000, and projects must be completed by March 31, 2025.
Applications are due by September 11, 2024.
Learn more about this funding opportunity
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Motability Foundation Announces 8 October Deadline for Stage 1 Applications
The Motability Foundation’s Wheelchair Sector Grant Programme offers grants ranging from £100,000 to £4 million to UK-based medium and large charities supporting disabled individuals’ access to quality, affordable wheelchairs. The funding can be used over one to three years, with final payments extending beyond March 2025.
Applications must be submitted by October 8, 2024.
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Support for Specialist Services for Young People with Disordered Eating Across the UK
Prudence Trust is offering grants of between £30,000 and £100,000 per year for up to three years for charities and community interest companies across the UK that deliver evidence-based, specialist eating disorder services for children and young people aged between 11 and 25, and their families. A total of £750,000 is available to support existing services or deliver new services that reach at least 50 children, young people, and families each year. Eligible costs cover salaries for therapy staff, delivery of support groups, specialist staff training, room hire for sessions, and creation of complementary resources.
The deadline for applications is 2 September 2024, 2pm.
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Veolia Environmental Trust Accepting Applications for Fourth 2024 Funding Round
The Veolia Environmental Trust are accepting applications the fourth round of the year. The trust offers Community Grants ranging from £10,000 to £75,000 for not-for-profit organisations, local authorities, and Environmental Bodies. These grants support projects that improve publicly accessible community buildings or outdoor spaces. Applications are accepted quarterly, with specific deadlines throughout the year with the upcoming window open until midday on the 3 October 2024.
For criteria, application and more
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Pots of Possibility: Your Pots 2024
Your Pots provides grants of up to £10,000 for projects taking place in the Lancaster district which support the development of a regenerative economy in our area.
It’s one of two grant-making strands within the Pots of Possibility programme, offered as part of the Closing Loops project and awarding funds originating with the National Lottery Community Fund.
A regenerative economy is one where people, organisations and businesses live and work in a way that protects and restores the environment, builds healthier communities and improves people’s wellbeing.
A whole range of different regenerative enterprises might contribute to a regenerative economy from businesses to community groups.
We’re looking for projects which help to advance any of these Closing Loops aims:
- Reusing, repurposing and repairing materials currently going to waste (e.g. textiles, electronics, packaging, surplus food, etc)
- Sharing resources (e.g. tools, materials, skills, etc) or repurposing unused space for community benefit
- Inspiring people to use and buy things more sustainably and to produce less waste
- Growing, cooking and eating food that’s local, seasonal and sustainably produced
Your Pots grants are awarded after a participative budgeting process. Local people will be invited to a Your Pots Your Say Voting Day, where they will have the chance to meet the projects and vote on which ones they think should receive grants.
If you’re interested in applying, there’s plenty of support available including two drop-in information sessions and a series of informal online pitching and feedback sessions.
Submit your expression of interest by midnight on 30 September.
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Clean Energy Funding
The Community Energy Fund is encouraging people in Lancashire to apply for a slice of a regional £2 million to help develop clean energy projects in their area.
Examples of projects which will be included for consideration are solar panel networks, wind farms and electric vehicle charging points amongst many others.
Local community groups and eligible voluntary groups in urban and rural communities can all apply that help reduce fossil fuel consumption.
Read more about the project and apply for funding
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Subsidised Residentials for Community Groups at Rookhow
Community organisations are eligible for subsidised stays at the Rookhow Bunkbarn near Grizedale. Funding for up to 100% of the cost of a two night stay is available, but you must apply by 1 October 2024.
Rookhow can sleep up to 30 people: 16 in the Bunkbarn, 4 in the yurt, and 10 on the Meeting House floor. The Bunkbarn has recently been renovated with a new kitchen, toilets and showers and underfloor heating powered by an air source heat pump. Groups get 12 acres of woodland all to themselves with campfire, tarpaulin, outdoor seating and plenty of space to roam.
Download further details, and the application form.
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National Churches Trust’s Cherish Grants
Grants of between £500 and £10,000 are available for urgent and essential maintenance and repair projects in Christian places of worship, as well as for the costs of developing a church building project.
The total project cost cannot be more than £80,000 including VAT and match funding of at least 50% of the project cost must have been secured before you apply.
The final deadline of 2024 is 17 December.
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The Edge Fund
The Edge Fund supports efforts to create long-term change in society by addressing the causes of injustice and inequality. Forty grants of £1,000 are available to communities and campaign groups that are working for social, economic and environmental justice and ending imbalances in wealth and power.
Community groups with an annual income under £20,000 that are addressing issues facing a particular community and are led by that community are eligible to apply. Registered charities, social enterprises and CICs are not usually funded but are encouraged to contact the Fund for the further information.
Online Q&A sessions will be held on 30 August and 6 September. The deadline for applications is 13 September.
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Youth Music’s Trailblazer Fund
Grants of up to £30,000 (limited to £15,000 for newer organisations) are available for projects which make music activity more inclusive for children and young people and foster learning, creation and employment opportunities.
Priority is given to small organisations with limited resources, those supporting children and young people facing barriers, and established groups seeking to innovate.
Apply by 5pm on 30 August.
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Alzheimer’s Research UK’s Inspire Fund
Seed funding grants of up to £5,000 are available for projects which engage with underserved audiences on the topic of dementia., build knowledge and understanding about brain health, and explore ways to encourage behaviour change.
Applications are welcome from a wide range of people and organisations including researchers, community groups, artists, creative organisations, and people responsible for cultural spaces such as museums and libraries.
An information webinar will be held on 17 September for potential applicants to find out more about the scheme, and the application deadline is 5pm on 14 October.
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Holiday Grants for Children
Grants are available for schools, youth groups, not-for-profit organisations, and charities to provide access to recreational trips or holidays for groups of children aged 13 years and younger who experience disadvantage or disability and live in an area of high deprivation. Funding from £500 to £2,750 is available.
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Bay Local Investment fund 2024-25
Bay ICC and PCN are offering a small investment fund for local organisations to improve health inclusion and reduce inequalities. Grants between £1,000 and £3,000 are available for initiatives that benefit the Bay area, with a focus on supporting vulnerable populations. The application deadline is 5pm on September 16, 2024, with decisions announced by October 8, 2024.
Download the application form and guidance
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Rewilding Britain Deadline Reminder
Rewilding Britain is offering grants of up to £15,000 to help remove barriers to rewilding projects across Britain, whether they are at the early planning stage or scaling up a pre-existing project. The Rewilding Innovation Fund will support rewilding projects on land and at sea, at a scale of more than 40 hectares, that adhere to Rewilding Britain’s rewilding principles, and could potentially unlock further funding or move a project in scale. Funding can be used to cover costs such as business plans and strategies, community engagement activities or co-design, feasibility studies and technological innovations.
The next deadline for applications is 30 August 2024.
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Protective Security for Mosques Funding Scheme
The UK Government has reopened applications for the Protective Security Scheme for Mosques, offering funding to enhance physical security at mosques vulnerable to hate crimes. The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) provides a detailed FAQ to guide British Muslim communities through the application process, including eligibility, funding uses, and required documentation.
The scheme, initially launched in 2016, is part of the government’s effort to protect places of worship from hate crimes. The application process includes providing evidence of vulnerability, with Esotec Limited managing the implementation of security measures for successful applicants.
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WCIT IT4Good Grants
The WCIT Charity is offering grants of up to £15,000 for educational establishments and not-for-profit organisations across the UK to support IT projects and activities. The IT4Good Grants Programme will support activities within the themes of education, inclusion, IT for charities, and understanding of IT, such as the development and delivery of new services, solutions, training, apps, analytics, AI, robotics, or accessibility features/hardware.
Projects that are more likely to be funded include:
- Projects where WCIT is a material or sole funder.
- Projects where WCIT is the sole funder of the IT component of a larger project.
- Organisations that could benefit from pro-bono support.
Proposals should demonstrate an innovative use of IT, be scalable for wider replication, and be sustainable over time. Grants of over £15,000 may be considered in exceptional circumstances.
The next deadline for applications is 31 October 2024.
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Stobart Launches Fund for Fighting Climate Change
Funding is available to UK non-profit organisations, community groups and educational institutions for projects that address climate change, reduce carbon emissions or protect the environment.
Rugby-based Stobart, part of the Culina Group, has launched its new Stobart Sustainability Fund to support not-for-profit organisations, community groups, schools and colleges involved in sustainability initiatives. Funding will be provided to projects which tackle climate change, reduce carbon emissions, or protect and enhance the environment.
Organisations are invited to set out their level of funding requirement in their application.
Applications are made online.
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Lottery Funded Projects
Are you in receipt of a National Lottery Community Fund grant? The Fund has been reaching out to organisations following the troubling events of recent weeks in the knowledge that they may be impacting the communities you support, their staff, and their families. Understanding that this might be a difficult time, they committed to being flexible and supportive.
If you are concerned that you may miss deadlines or communications due to prioritising communities at this time, the Fund has explained that that they are prepared to be flexible and that they are there to support you through these challenging times. Please do reach out to your grant officer.
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Parkinson’s UK Grants for Physical Activity Providers
Parkinson’s UK is offering grants of up to £3,000 in 2024 to support physical activity projects for people with Parkinson’s across the UK. Applicants must review the essential guidance, contact their local Area Development Manager, and are encouraged to complete an awareness course before applying.
If you would like any further information then please call 07801 183 349 or email [email protected]
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Branching Out Fund Winter Planting Season
Branching Out, The Tree Council’s grants programme for community groups, schools, small registered charities, and Tree Warden Networks seeking to establish trees, hedgerows, and orchards in the 2024/25 planting season is now open for applications. The fund provides grants ranging from £250 to £2,500 in value – with faster decisions for those applying for funds below £500. To find out if your group is eligible, please read the Application Guidance.
Applying is straightforward, with lots of supplementary information available, and applicants will be supported throughout the process by The Tree Council’s Grants team.
Branching Out is accepting grant applications now, with a closing date of midnight on 1 December 2024.
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Henry Moore Foundation Accepting Applications for Sculpture Projects Across the UK
The Henry Moore Grants support the development and appreciation of sculpture through funding in three categories: New Projects and Collections, Research and Development, and Conferences, Lectures, and Publications. Grants up to £20,000 are available for non-profit organisations, while individuals can receive up to £2,500 for research and travel. Applications are accepted quarterly. Apply online through the Foundation’s website. Revenue funding is generally not provided.
Applications close on 1 December 2024
Learn more about this fund and apply
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PEACEPLUS Challenge Fund Seeks to Enhance Cross-Border Research and Innovation
The PEACEPLUS Investment Area 2.2 Innovation Challenge Fund supports high-level, commercially focused research, development, and innovation in key growth sectors, aiming to enhance productivity, exports, and sustainable employment, while fostering economic regeneration and transformation through cross-border research and advanced technology adoption.
Learn more about this funding opportunity
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Reach for the Sky Challenge Fund to Boost Aviation Careers
The Government’s Reach for the Sky Challenge Fund offers £750,000 to support not-for-profit schemes that introduce young people from underprivileged backgrounds or under-represented groups to aviation careers. Projects must inspire future aviation professionals, reach individuals unaware of sector opportunities, and engage multiple people. Applications are accepted from registered charities and not-for-profit companies.
The deadline for application is 27 September 2024 12.00pm
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Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust Hidden Voices Programme
The Hidden Voices Programme offers up to £20,000 for projects providing mental health and wellbeing support to seldom-heard members of Armed Forces communities, focusing on prevention and early intervention.
Beneficiaries include serving personnel, Reservists, Veterans, and their families, particularly those from marginalised groups. Projects must build partnerships between Armed Forces and specialist non-Armed Forces organisations, address service provision gaps, and increase understanding of Armed Forces needs.
Eligible applicants include registered charities and CICs with at least one year of experience.
Apply by September 11, 2024, through the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust website. Contact: [email protected]
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Veterans’ Foundation Announces 2024/25 Deadlines
The armed forces support charity The Veterans’ Foundation have announced their deadlines for 2024/25. The Foundation offers grants to UK registered charities and other not-for-profit organisations in the UK that provide support to those ‘in need’ among serving armed forces personnel, veterans, operationally qualified seafarers and their immediate families.
The range of charities and organisations supported is extensive and covers every aspect of social care and includes but is not limited to homelessness, employability, financial disadvantage, disability, welfare issues, mental health, marriage guidance, care during old age and confidence building.
Applications can now be made for standard grants of between £5,001 and £30,000 and salary grants up to £25,000.
Quarterly deadlines apply:
- 8 October 2024 – for a decision in December 2024.
- 20 January 2025 – for a decision in March 2025.
- 31 March 2025 – for a decision in June 2025.
- 21 July 2025 – for a decision in September 2025.
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Community Innovators Mentoring Programme
Footwork Trust’s People and Place mentoring programme supports small groups or individuals whose experience of a pressing issue in their neighbourhood has motivated them to take action and address it with an innovative solution.
The programme provides community innovators in England or Wales with the funding, support and connections they need to get their project off the ground, or scale it to increase its impact. The programme is specifically intended to support people who are working to transform their neighbourhoods for the better.
Projects need to ensure facilities, land and buildings are used by local people, that they have a say on their neighbourhood transformation and that they can access resources to live more sustainably and affordably. Unrestricted grants of £5,000 and other benefits are available.
The deadline for applications to the 2025 programme is 9 September 2024,11.59pm
Find out more about this mentoring programme
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Eric Wright Charitable Trust
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]
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Historic England Initiative for Youth-Led Local History Projects
The Historic England Initiative aims to empower underrepresented young people (aged 13-25) to explore and commemorate local histories, enhancing their well-being, skills, confidence, and connection to their community. Projects will uncover overlooked stories and celebrate them through community place markers. Applications are open to various organisations and individuals in England who can work collaboratively with young people and ensure project sustainability, with grants available between £10,000 and £15,000.
The deadline for applications is September 2, 2024. More information and application forms are available on the Historic England website, or inquiries can be sent to [email protected]
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Funding Boost Ensures Future of Archives Revealed
The National Lottery Heritage Fund’s Archives Revealed program, a collaboration with the Pilgrim Trust, Wolfson Foundation, and The National Archives, aims to make significant UK archival collections accessible for public research and enjoyment. The initiative will distribute about 160 grants over three years, with a focus on public engagement and participatory work.
The programme includes Cataloguing Grants of up to £50,000, Scoping Grants of up to £3,000, and new Consortium Grants of up to £150,000 for collaborative projects.
Applications open on September 2, 2024, with varying deadlines.
A webinar on September 2 will offer more information, requiring registration via Eventbrite.
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Maintaining Public Memorials
Grants are available to help with VAT on the construction, repair and maintenance of public memorial structures in the UK for work which took place on or after 16 March 2005. The funding is intended to cover the costs of VAT already paid.
Applications will be accepted from registered charities and faith groups excepted from registering as a charity to help with the cost of works like repairing and cleaning public memorials or installing a new memorial.
The deadline for applications is 30 September 2024.
View the criteria and how to apply
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Barclays Community Football Fund
Barclays Bank in partnership with the Sported Foundation is offering grants of up to £1,000 to not-for-profit organisations operating in an area of high deprivation to support delivery of their football activities to engage with young people (under the age of 25 years) from underrepresented groups.
This is an access grant which aims to help improve access to football for all. The funding is for groups that are running football activities for one or more of the following underrepresented groups: women and girls, young people with disabilities, young people from racially diverse communities, young people from the LGBTQ+ community and young people from lower socio-economic groups.
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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
Nominate your community hero – win £250 donation!
Is there someone in your organisation who’s a real champion? easyfundraising is on the search for the people who go above and beyond or make everyone’s day a little brighter. Three incredible people deserving of some much-needed recognition and appreciation will be chosen to be easyfundraising’s Community Champions and will win a £250 donation for their organisation, as well as £250 to treat themselves to something special.
To nominate your champion, fill in the short online form by 23:59 on 30th September and tell easyfundraising why this person is so amazing. Whether they’re inspiring the next generation, going above and beyond their duties, fighting for change, or just showing up and doing a fantastic job – easyfundraising wants to know!
Get your nominations in here by 30th September – Nominate here!
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Trustee & Director Survey 2024
Charity Excellence Framework are launching the Trustee & Director Survey 2024 and need your input! Your feedback helps cut through sector politics and ensure your voice is heard. The survey is quick, and your insights will provide valuable benchmarking data for your board.
All trustees and directors are invited to contribute their voice by spending just a few minutes completing this year’s Trustee & Director Benchmarking Survey. Add your e mail address at the end and you’ll be sent a copy. It is completely anonymous, and your e mail will not be used for any other purpose.
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Free Washer Available for Charity
A Samsung 9kg washing machine in excellent working condition is being donated free of charge to a charity or family in need. The washer is 7 years old and has been well-maintained. The doner is having an upcoming kitchen renovation, and will be replacing it with a washer/dryer combo, making this unit available. We hope this washer can benefit someone in the community. The doner is happy to deliver the washer anywhere within the Lancaster District after September 23rd.
If you or someone you know could make good use of this washer, please get in touch with David Cragg at [email protected]
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Lancaster District Strategic Partnership
Nine organisations from across the Lancaster district have pledged to work together more closely to improve the lives of the local community with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
Signed at Lancaster Castle on Monday, August 19, the MOU marks the creation of a new Lancaster District Strategic Partnership (LDSP).
Through the partnership, the founding member organisations will work together to improve the Lancaster District aligned to agreed strategic priorities – sustainability and the climate emergency, the economy, health and wellbeing and communities.
Founding organisations include Lancaster City Council, Lancaster University, University of Cumbria, Lancaster and Morecambe College, Lancaster and Morecambe Chamber of Commerce, University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust, Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board, Lancaster District CVS and Lancaster Arts Partnership.
The partnership aims to deliver mutually beneficial local and regional projects by identifying and developing new opportunities for collaborative working between sectors. It also aims to maximise how organisations use their combined resources effectively to improve the Lancaster District.
Councillor Peter Jackson, Lancaster City Council’s cabinet member with the responsibility for communities, wellbeing and partnerships, said: “The partnership provides the perfect opportunity for Lancaster City Council to strengthen the good working relationships it already has with its partners.
“Via the LDSP, we’ll be able to identify and explore more opportunities for joint working and utilise our combined skills and knowledge to drive sustainable change that will have a positive impact and make this area a more prosperous place to live, work, and invest in.”
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Funding & Commissioning Awards 2024
Voluntary Sector North West have announced the launch of the Funding & Commissioning Awards 2024. These awards aim to recognise the exceptional commitment and innovative approaches of grant funders and commissioners within the voluntary, community, faith, and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector in the North West.
If you’ve had a positive experience with a funding or commissioning team, now’s your chance to share and celebrate their work. VSNW encourage you to submit a nomination and help them shine a spotlight on those making a real difference in our community.
- Categories: Outstanding Grant Funder, Outstanding Commissioner (Local Authority/Combined Authority), Outstanding Commissioner (NHS)
- Deadline: 12pm, 12th October 2024
Find out more and submit your nomination
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Nominations for HM The King’s Birthday Honours List 2025
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport is seeking nominations for the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours List, particularly from the Midlands and North East England. They are looking to recognise individuals who have made significant contributions to their communities, such as through long-term volunteer work or exceptional fundraising efforts.
For more information or to nominate someone, visit the Honours webpage or contact [email protected].
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Police & Crime Plan Consultation
What are the policing issues in your local area? Join the 2000+ Lancashire residents who have already shared their views on the policing priorities for Lancashire.
Lancashire’s PCC Clive Grunshaw is seeking public views through a county-wide survey, ahead of setting the priorities for his Police and Crime Plan which outlines how policing resources are allocated and serves as a means to hold the Chief Constable and the police service accountable on behalf of the people.
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Lancashire Constabulary Stakeholder Briefing
Lancashire Constabulary continues to support Merseyside Police following the Southport incident and has managed local disorder and protests over last weekend. The stakeholder briefing presents key points which include maintaining public safety, handling protests in multiple locations, and making 22 arrests. Community engagement and misinformation are also addressed, emphasising ongoing support for the Southport investigation.
For full details of the briefing, click here.
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Love Lancaster Business Awards 2024
Lancaster BID is delighted to confirm the Love Lancaster Business Awards 2024 is now open for nomination, inviting you to vote for your Superhero of the Year!
This is a community award which seeks to recognise the individual who has voluntarily given up their time to make a significant positive contribution to Lancaster city centre. This could be someone at a school, local community group or charity who has given up their time to help others. Tell Lancaster BID what they have done for other people which really makes them stand out from the crowd.
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Lancaster District Local Plan Consultation
Lancaster City Council are drafting a new Local Plan which will set out opportunities for the housing, jobs and infrastructure that are needed by a growing population.
The plan will also update the policies that are used to make decisions about planning proposals. As part of the process of drafting the Local Plan, the council is now asking people for their views on a draft vision for the district.
The consultation is now live, closing on 20 September.
Find out more and respond to the consultation
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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]
Young Trustees Movement Champion Training
Learn how young trustees can help organisations navigate uncertainty, future-proof decisions, and better represent their communities, with a free 1-hour online workshop. Attendees will leave with a framework for increasing board diversity and practical steps for implementation. When 1/12 trustees are named either John or David and fewer than 3% of trustees are under 30. It’s no secret that board diversity is an issue. This workshop aims to help change that. An optional extra hour will be available for additional support and discussion.
Date & time: 5th September, 12-1pm
Location: Online
More info and reserve your place
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Getting Your Head Around Finance
Boost your confidence in charity finance with a fun and interactive training day led by consultant Adrian Ashton. Learn how to read accounts, manage bookkeeping, forecast, and implement essential financial processes. The session is £25 for LDCVS members and £50 for non-members, and takes place on Wednesday, 30 October 2024, 9.30am – 4pm at The Cornerstone, Lancaster.
Learn more and reserve your place
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Prevent Training & Support
Community groups can access training and support around the Prevent programme. Training includes information about:
- What is Prevent
- What Prevent does in Lancashire
- What is terrorism, extremism, and radicalisation
- Threats in Lancashire – i.e. ideologies: Islamist/ far XRW / LAsi and other
- What to look out for – vulnerabilities
- Case studies
To access training and support, email [email protected] or call 01254 585260.
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Intergenerational Trauma Workshop
Uncovering how distant familial trauma can imprint on the personality today in this enlightening talk with clinical psychologist, Dr Deba Choudhury, as part of Trauma Informed Cumbria.
Explore the role of epigenetics and the mechanisms through which trauma is passed down through generations. Obtain valuable insights into your family history and begin to understand the profound ways that the past can mould someone’s current psychological landscape.
9 September, 10am – 12 noon, £35, online
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Visual Impairment Awareness
Join us for an engaging and insightful workshop designed to raise awareness about visual impairments and foster a more inclusive environment for all. This workshop is perfect for anyone interested in understanding the experiences and needs of individuals with visual impairments. This session includes simulation activities to give an experience of every day challenges
This free session is delivered by Michelle Hawley from Galloways Society for the Blind.
30 August, 1.15pm – 2.15pm, The Cornerstone
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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. You’ll learn how to define a project, about tools used for planning, how to evaluate projects, and the most important documents and records required.
This training is delivered by Dr Jan Maskell, an experienced trainer, project manager and sustainability consultant.
17 September, 9.30am – 1pm, Lancaster & Morecambe College Employer Hub
£20 for LDCVS members, £35 for non-members.
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LGBT+ Awareness
If you are curious about issues around gender and sexuality, this session should have the answers. Ellian Ozanne from Out in the Bay does a whistlestop tour of the topic, covering surprising history, essential legislation, eyebrow-raising statistics and practical guidance.
18 September, 10am – 12 noon, Out in the Bay (Claremont Road, Morecambe).
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Working with Volunteers with Disabilities
In this free online lunchtime session, local campaigner for disabled access and equality Ollie Flitcroft draws on his long experience working in the third sector to describe the particular challenges facing volunteers and disabilities, and how organisations can minimize these.
You will learn about identifying barriers, providing support and reasonable adjustments, and how to manage recruitment processes, benefits, group volunteering and more.
17 September, 12.30pm – 1pm, online
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GDPR: Keeping People’s Data Secure
Understanding GDPR and Data Protection is essential for anyone who deals with personal information about people. Everyone working in an organisation has a legal responsibility to keep this information secure – and there are financial penalties for not doing so – and yet not everyone is clear on exactly how to do this in practice.
This session will help you understand what GDPR involves, the processes and paperwork you need, the training your staff and volunteers require, protection against cybercrime and more.
The session is delivered by Anne Phillips of Barkley Legal, based on her many years as a practising solicitor and recently practical experience running a business and navigating and advising on all things data protection.
26 September, 9.30am – 12.45pm, The Cornerstone
£20 for LDCVS members, £40 for non-members.
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Coaching & Mentoring
Amongst other benefits, coaching and mentoring can help people identify and achieve goals, increase motivation and build stronger teams.
This training, delivered by Dr Jan Maskell, will help you understand the difference between coaching and mentoring, the role of coach or mentor, a simple model you can use, and more.
1 October, 12.30pm – 1.30pm, online
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Suicide Prevention
This half-day workshop provides learners with the confidence and tools to understand the impact of suicide and take someone who is experiencing thoughts of suicide from a place of danger and isolation to a place of safety and support, using a three-step ‘first aid’ approach.
This approach enables the suicide ‘first aider’ to identify the signs that someone may be experiencing thoughts of suicide, recognize the needs of that person, ask about suicide clearly and directly and use safety planning to empower the individual to find appropriate help.
The workshop is City and Guilds registered, delivered by a trainer registered with the National Centre for Suicide Prevention.
This is a funded course, with just a registration fee (£5 LDCVS members / £10 non-members) to cover venue hire and refreshments.
3 October, 9.15am – 12.30pm, Christ Church Lancaster
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Mental Health First Aid
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an internationally recognised two-day training course which teaches people how to spot the signs and symptoms of mental ill health and provide help on a first aid basis.
MHFA England training will teach you the best way to listen, reassure and respond, even in a crisis. Learning takes place through a mix of group activities, presentations and discussions.
The course normally costs up to £300, but in this case is fully funded by Lancashire County Council Public Health and is free. However, delegates must pay a £50 deposit (plus £2.65 covering ticketing and payment fees charged by our suppliers) at the time of booking. Your £50 deposit will be repaid on completion of both full days.
7 & 8 November, 9am – 5pm, Christ Church Lancaster
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Autism Awareness
Join Lancashire County Council as they myth-bust through some of the common misconceptions when it comes to autism. LCC will be running a 2.5-hour hands-on Autism Awareness Training at County Hall, Preston. Hosted in partnership with Cloverleaf Advocacy and Lancashire Skills Hub, this session is tailored for employers and professionals in HR, management, and diversity roles. Learn about autism, effective communication, sensory sensitivities, and making reasonable workplace adjustments. This event aims to promote a more inclusive environment for individuals with ASD.
Date & time: October 18 2024, 10am-12.30pm
Location: County Hall, Preston
Find out more and reserve your place
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Eden Project Communities Introduction to Community Action
Part of the Community Camp programme, this short online course (one evening a week from 18 September – 16 October) explores how to make positive change where you live, from the comfort of your own home.
Each week is jam-packed with workshops, inspirational talks, networking and fun.
This fully funded course explores how to make positive change where you live. Therefore, it is in high demand and specifically for the benefit of voluntary community members rather than those who work in a paid community role.
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FREE Mental Wellbeing Training Courses
The website wefindanylearner.com are hosting mental wellbeing courses all delivered online. All you need to do is meet a few simple criteria, including being at least 19 years old by August 31st, 2023, residing in England, and not currently enrolled in an apprenticeship program. Course duration is between 6-12 weeks.
Courses available:
You can easily sign up on their website or by contacting their team at 01226 958 888.
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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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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 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.
Volunteering Drop-in – Morecambe
Do you have questions about volunteering? Are you interested in getting involved? Perhaps you need support to find volunteers for your project?
On the last working Wednesday of every month between 9.30am and 11.30am, pop along to our Morecambe office at The Link, 11-13 The Veranda, West Street, Morecambe.
Mark will be on hand to help you with whatever you need. Can’t come during that time slot? Book an appointment for later on a Wednesday, or simply email [email protected] with your queries.
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Chair Person – Halton Community Association (HCA)
Halton Community Association is seeking a new Chair Person to lead The Centre @ Halton. The role involves supporting staff, chairing monthly meetings, and ensuring decisions are made efficiently. This volunteer position is a great opportunity for those recently retired or seeking to make a positive impact in the community.
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Lancashire Constabulary Lay Visitors
Lancashire Constabulary are seeking volunteer lay visitors for divisional Mental Health Diversion and Advisory (MHDAP) panels.
The volunteer role ensures the MHDAP keeps vulnerable people safe and where applicable offers the voice of the public in ethical decision making. Volunteers question the panel where applicable and ensure its decision making is accountable, open, and transparent.
Pre–agreed travel expenses can be claimed. This opportunity is subject to police vetting and to qualify you must have been a resident in the UK for the past 3 years.
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Kitchen Assistant Volunteer – The Friendship Centre
Are you looking for a volunteering role in catering? Working with food? Customer service?
The Friendship Centre on Robert Street in Lancaster needs a Kitchen Assistant, 9.30am to 1pm on Fridays, to serve Tea and Coffee and biscuits and wash up and put away.
If you are interested, please let Mark at the Volunteer Centre know – [email protected].
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Under 18 Volunteering
We’ve had a great response over the last few months to our call for opportunities for under 18s to volunteer, but we really want to widen participation as much as we can. So if you have any roles for under 18s to support your organisation or project, please let us know.
Like the idea of involving under 18s but have concerns? Perhaps you’re worried about insurance, or safeguarding – whatever your question, let us know and we can support you to engage under 18s with your work.
We are still getting requests from parents and students looking for volunteering opportunities for people aged between 14 and 17, so if you’d like to offer them something, let us know. Please email [email protected] with the details.
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Friends of Lancaster Library Cafe
The Friends Of Lancaster Library (FOLL) cafe are planning to extend their weekly Wednesday cafe from a 1pm finish to a 4pm finish, with the aim of hosting a chatty cafe in the afternoon to help reduce social isolation as well as providing a welcoming space for other groups who might benefit from our donation only cafe.
The Cafe runs all year round from Lancaster Library.
FOLL are keen to encourage volunteers to get in touch if they are interested in volunteering on a Wednesday afternoon on a weekly basis to support this new initiative, no former cafe experience necessary as a full introduction will be given, no till handling involved.
Interested volunteer’s can drop into the Wednesday cafe between 10.30am – 1pm in the main Library and ask for Sahara to arrange a trial cafe session or email Sahara at [email protected]
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Volunteer Caseworker at SSFA, The Armed Forces Charity
Caseworkers visit clients (those serving and those who save served in the forces, and their families) to work out what type of support they need. This could include things like securing funding for specialist equipment, home adaptions, benefits advice, finding work and more.
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Lancashire Constabulary Police Museum Volunteers Needed
Volunteers are needed at Lancaster Castle to promote and support the Constabulary’s historic values by providing effective customer focus and supporting members of the public. Responsibilities will be staffing the museum, welcoming and directing visitors, clerical duties (monitoring the number of visitors) and updating neighbourhood officers with any comments/feedback from members of the public.
The closing date for application is the 31st of August 2024 at 11:55pm.
Information on Lancashire Police Museum
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Opportunities for Volunteering from Home
Do you have any volunteering roles that can be done from home? We would like to increase the number of options that are available for people who either cannot, or would prefer not to, go out to volunteer.
This can include people with disabilities; people who are challenged by anxiety, depression, or other mental wellbeing issues; people with short-term illness or injury that prevents them from going out; people who are isolating because of some other health related issue; or perhaps just people who want to do something but would find it more convenient to work from home.
Roles that could be done from home could include things like administration, finance, social media, marketing and promotion, telephone befriending etc and often would only require minimal equipment, such as a computer and an internet connection.
Please contact [email protected] with your volunteering needs. We have volunteers waiting for home-based roles, so there is potential for a quick referral.
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Trustee role with Birchall
The Birchall Trust, established in 1991, offers support services for individuals affected by rape and sexual abuse across Cumbria and Lancashire. They provide trauma-informed counseling, peer support, and prevention services through community engagement and education. The Trust seeks new trustees passionate about their mission to live in a world free from sexual violence. Trustees are involved in strategic planning, financial oversight, risk management, and promoting governance. Interested candidates should submit an application explaining their experience and interest in the role.
Applications can be sent to [email protected]
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Meet Up Mondays
Each Monday between 9am and 10.30am, why not pop into the Marketgate Shopping Arcade, the unit with the table tennis, for a cuppa and a chat?
And if you are interested in talking about volunteering, you can catch Mark there every third Monday of the month! Just drop in. Don’t fancy volunteering? No problem, grab a brew and a biscuit!
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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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Get Ready to Rejuvenate Fitness and Wellness Festival
The first fitness and wellness festival of its kind arrives at Salt Ayre, Lancaster this September.
Get Ready to Rejuvenate takes place on Saturday 7th September 2024 from 10am till 4pm. This festival promises a day filled with exciting fitness events, relaxing yoga sessions and rejuvenating meditation practices for all fitness levels. Tickets are priced at £18 + booking fee (second early bird release) / £20 + booking fee (general admission).
Join Make Bold Choices for a day of wellness and fun as they bring together the community to celebrate health and fitness in a lively and vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi, a fitness newbie, or someone looking to explore new wellness practices, there’s something for everyone at this inaugural festival.
Find out more about the activities on offer and buy tickets.
20 free tickets have been made available for local communities. Access these by reaching out to Lauren Mayes on 07765 062376 or [email protected] for further information.
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Free Badminton and Multisports
Keep active and sociable and come along to these sessions which are open to all, held every Friday 2pm-3pm on Doris Henderson Way in Lancaster, and completely free!
Contact Tasmin for more information via email at [email protected] or call 07465743751.
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NHS RSV Vaccinations
RSV vaccine for unborn babies
Protect your baby from RSV Bronchiolitis with your RSV vaccine from week 28 of your pregnancy. Make sure to speak to your midwife, maternity service or GP practice about your RSV appointment today.
RSV vaccine for adults
Protect yourself from the risk of RSV which can cause pneumonia which can be very serious. Your GP will invite you for your free RSV vaccination if you turn 75 years of age on or after 1 September 2024 or if you are already aged 75 to 79 years old on 1 September 2024.
Speak to your practice nurse, GP or health team about the vaccine and read all about it here
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NHS Talking Therapies Improving Access to Ethnically Diverse Communities
LSCFT are collecting information and views around referrals to Talking Therapies, particularly in relation to people from Ethnically and Culturally Diverse Communities (BAME). The aim of the consultation is to improve accessibility for all communities as well as develop culturally adapted approaches.
The first stage in the process is a five-minute baseline survey. Complete it here by 6 September.
For further information contact Lee Mills at [email protected]
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Healthwatch Report: Who can help me?
This report details the findings of a Healthwatch project which explored the experiences of family members and carers who support people with a neurological disorder.
The feedback outlined in this report identified some of the barriers carers face and outlined a series of recommendations to which local commissioning bodies have provided their response.
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Parent Wellbeing Group
NHS Blackpool Talking therapies are offering a new online group for parents in Blackpool, Lancashire and South Cumbria. The online sessions offer cognitive behavioural therapy focused information to help support and guide new parents through the challenges they face, learning new skills to enhance wellbeing and build on resilience.
The group is offered over six sessions lasting 90 minutes, and will run over eight weeks.
To book a pre-course assessment, call 01253 955700 or email [email protected]
Download the information poster to find out more
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Lancaster District Directory Updates
Take a look at our latest listings in the digital directory:
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Cardiac Services Reconfiguration
The NHS Trusts in Lancashire and South Cumbria, along with the Integrated Care Board (ICB), are exploring improvements to cardiac services by adopting a network model. This model aims to enhance care quality and accessibility by having hospital teams collaborate more closely, potentially offering services locally rather than at major centres.
Benefits could include shorter waiting times, faster diagnostics, and better care. Patient feedback is being sought to understand current experiences and potential challenges before implementing any changes.
Further details and share your views
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Creative Wellbeing Groups
Two new Creative Wellbeing Groups are launching in Lancaster and Kendal for neurodivergent individuals aged 18+. These free, fortnightly workshops offer a relaxed space to explore creative activities like collage and textiles, guided by local artist Danielle Chappell Aspinwall. Sessions start in October, with access support and travel bursaries available. Sign up now to connect with others and enjoy creative expression.
Lancaster: Halton Mill, every other Thursday 11am-1pm, starting 3 October
Kendal: Castle Street Community Centre, every other Thursday 11am-1pm, starting 10 October
Learn more about the wellbeing groups here
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Celebrate Recovery with Adullam
Struggling with life’s challenges? Celebrate Recovery offers supportive small groups where you can share openly in a confidential, safe environment. These groups meet every Tuesday at 7:30 pm, and a women-only group meets on Wednesdays at 10:00 am from September 11th at Hope Church, Lancaster.
All are welcome. For more information, email [email protected] or call 07449 373979 / 07861 653978.
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Free Health & Wellbeing Checks
The Bay Medical Group and Citizens Advice are providing joint health, wellbeing and advice drop-ins at The Sanctuary Café, Queens St Morecambe.
Meetings take place 2-4pm first and third Tuesday of the month, and 2-4pm second and forth Friday of the month. The Health Check appointments are available 11-2pm, first Wednesday of the month.
For more information contact Rosie France Outreach Nurse at BMG at [email protected] or call 01524 518520/ 077704 57566.
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NHS Winter Messaging 2024
The ICB is developing communications materials for the coming winter in order to try to help people understand about self-care, how to keep safe, what services are available and how to access services appropriately.
Feedback is now sought on proposed materials to help make them as effective as possible.
See examples of materials for 2024/5 and respond to the survey here, by the end of August.
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Community Mental Health Transformation Survey
As the ICB moves to the second phase of the Community Mental Health Transformation programme, they are keen to engage with and listen to people who are involved in delivering care for people with complex mental health needs, whichever organisation they might work for.
This engagement work is intended to provide information which helps to build local plans with defined transformational priorities, building on the work already being undertaken by colleagues within the VCFSE sector to capture experiences of local people.
As a first stage, a short survey is being circulated, which includes the opportunity to leave contact details if you wish to be included in future engagement activity.
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Active Lancashire Outdoor Fitness Classes
These circuit-style outdoor classes are suitable for all abilities and free to attend.
These circuit-style outdoor classes are suitable for all abilities and free to attend.
Wednesdays, 2pm – 3pm at Westfield Playing Field, Lancaster.
Contact Tamasin Lamb at [email protected] or 07465 737751
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Navigating Neurological Conditions: Support and Community in Our District
In our latest Health and Wellbeing blog we focus on the support that is out there for people in our district living with a neurological condition. There are many different types of neurological condition. Some are really well known: stroke, dementia, cluster headaches, and Parkinson’s for example, but there are many that are really rare and far less well known. Some conditions begin suddenly for example following a brain injury, some such as epilepsy you are born with, and others, like multiple sclerosis, develop over time.
There are many fantastic national charities that offer information, advice & guidance for people living with these conditions including: Parkinson’s UK, The Alzheimers Society, The Stroke Association, The Brain Charity, MS Society, and Headway UK. Closer to home we have a number of peer support groups and local charities that are doing fantastic work helping people live full and healthier lives while managing their conditions…Read more
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NIHR Research Support Service (RSS) Specialist Centre for Social Care
The NIHR Research Support Service (RSS) Specialist Centre for Social Care, are offering free advice and support for developing funding applications and providing post-award advice for social care research.
Whether you’re an experienced researcher or new to the field, the RSS Specialist Centre for Social Care can help you develop your research ideas aimed at changing practice or improving services in social care. The centre provides expert research advice and specialist topic expertise across the full spectrum of social care to help you bring your ideas to life.
For more information, please contact the RSS Specialist Centre for Social Care at [email protected]
View the RSS Specialist Centre for Social Care flyer, detailing the wide range of support available.
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Crooklands Canalathon
Come and join in with the South Lakes’ Canalathon, where you can enjoy a fun-filled day of paddle boarding (2.8km), running/walking (2.5km), and cycling (5km or 10km) along the beautiful canal towpath trail between Crooklands and Stainton.
No paddle board or bike? No problem! Rentals are available. Entry is just £15, supporting Towpath Trail improvements. Participants aged 8+ are welcome, with paddle boarding for 18+ only.
The Canalathon takes place on August 31, 2024, 10.30am
For more details, follow this link
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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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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
Learn about the Kooth platform with a 30 minute webinar
kooth.com is a free platform which provides a free, safe and anonymous space for young people to find support and counselling. It includes lots of advice, discussion boards, goal setting tools, a personal journal, and online counselling.
Professionals working with children and young people can find out more about how they can integrate this resource into their work by attending a 30 minute webinar on 5 September, starting at 3.30pm.
For more information and to join the webinar, email Heather Hook at [email protected]
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Lancashire Mind CYP Peer Support
Through innovative, peer-led support systems, this programme aims to enhance the mental health and wellbeing of young people aged 10 to 19 (up to 25 with SEND) across Lancashire. With children facing an alarming increase in mental health challenges, Lancashire Mind can help support them to find coping strategies and build resilience.
Find out more and make referrals
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High Sheriff of Lancashire’s Young Citizen Award
Do you know a young person aged 19 or under, who has helped either their local neighbourhood, an individual, family member or a local organisation in the last 12 months?
The High Sheriff of Lancashire would like to hear from you! Register your nomination for The High Sheriff of Lancashire’s Young Citizen Award 2025. The winner will receive £300 with two runner-up prizes of £100 each.
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Childcare Choices Campaign closes on 31 August
Does your organisation support children, parents or carers? Help spread the word to eligible working parents in England with a child who is between 9 months old and 3 years old on their right to apply for 15 hours childcare on gov.uk for a place starting in September.
Parents and carers should speak to their provider to find out more about individual arrangements, and will need to renew their code every three months through their gov.uk childcare account to continue to receive the support.
The deadline to apply is 31 August. To learn more and check their eligibility, parents and carers can visit the Childcare Choices website.
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CYP Now Awards 2024: Shortlisted Entries Announced
The shortlist for this year’s Children & Young People Now Awards has been revealed. There are 116 entries across 24 categories from over 500 applications. The finalists, chosen by sector judges, will now be reviewed by a panel of young judges. Winners will be announced on 28 November at a gala dinner in London. Congratulations to all shortlisted, and good luck in the next round!
Find out more about the awards here
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Talking to Young People about Vaping
In partnership with trading standards, Lancaster police conducted test purchases at vape shops in Lancaster and Morecambe. Several premises were found selling vapes to under-18s, leading to enforcement actions.
Police and the NHS have explained that It’s crucial that young people understand vaping is intended for adults to quit smoking, not for non-smokers or youth. Vaping is less harmful than smoking but not risk-free, as it exposes users to toxins and nicotine, which is especially harmful to developing brains. In the UK, selling vapes to under-18s is illegal, and some disposable vapes may not meet safety standards.
Young people can find out more on the FRANK website.
Useful information on vapes – a way to stop smoking
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Free Second Hand School Uniforms
The YMCA Lancaster Charity Shop are giving away second hand school uniforms to those in need. Pop down to the YMCA shop in St Nicholas Arcade, where items are available on the salesfloor.
See their Facebook post for further details
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Emergency Community Support and Resources Following the Southport Incident
In light of the recent tragic events in Southport, the VCS Emergencies Partnership is extending its support to local networks. This partnership aims to strengthen our sector during emergencies and is providing direct assistance to those affected. Recognising the impact on young people, they are committed to offering help and support as the community navigates through this difficult time.
To aid our members, partners, and the community, the following resources are available:
Bee the Difference Report: This report includes insights from over 200 young survivors of the Manchester Arena attack. While the Southport incident is not classified as a terror attack, the findings are valuable for those working with affected children, families, and communities. Access the report here.
UK Trauma Council Resources: The UK Trauma Council provides extensive resources for professionals supporting children and young people dealing with trauma and bereavement. Key resources include:
- Critical Incidents in Educational Communities
- Guidance on Creating the Best Environment for Recovery
- Traumatic Bereavement for Children & Young People
Please share this information to ensure those in need can access these valuable resources.
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National Youth Work Week 2024
The National Youth Agency’s Youth Work Week is an annual celebration of all things youth work. The week long campaign takes place at the beginning of every November. This year it will take place from Monday 4 – Sunday 10 November.
Each year the campaign has an overarching theme to help the sector to focus their engagement. The theme for 2024 is: a right to youth work for all – delivering positive futures for young people.
The theme aims to highlight the many ways that youth work spaces are made accessible to all and which enable young people to explore and celebrate their own identity and values.
In the run-up to Youth Work Week, the NYA are inviting you to take part in their Art of Youth Work campaign. The campaign provides an opportunity for young people accessing youth work to create artworks, music and other performing arts which they can unveil as part of Youth Work Weeks celebration.
Find out more on the NYA website
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Places for Kids to eat FREE this Summer
Moneysavingcentral.co.uk have compiled and shared a list of outlets where you can grab a bite to eat with the kids this summer, and they eat absolutely free!
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Youth Futures Foundation: Evidence into Action Funding Programme
Applications are now open for the Youth Futures Foundation’s Evidence into Action program, which supports vocational training for young people not in education, employment, or training (NEET) from Black, Mixed Black, Bangladeshi, Pakistani, or Gypsy Roma Traveler Heritage. The program offers Delivery Grants of up to £75,000 annually for up to three years to voluntary organisations in select areas across Greater Manchester, Lancashire, London, West Midlands, and Yorkshire.
The funding aims to enhance youth employability activities through evidence-based practices. Additionally, the program includes learning and development support and will be evaluated by an external partner. Weekly webinars and one-on-one appointments are available for potential applicants.
Open from 22 July 2024 until 9 September 2024, the first funding round will cover 3 years of learning, development and delivery. For more information please click
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Morecambe Fire Cadets
The Cadet Programme at Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service is offering young people an opportunity to gain insight into a uniformed service, starting in September providing they are 13 years old, but must have turned 14 by December. There are 4 places left at Morecambe for the September start.
The programme includes learning basic firefighting, personal and social skills, and earning the Skills for Justice Qualification. Cadets will be treated as young firefighters with a uniform and name badge, attend weekly sessions at their local fire station, and participate in community events. They will develop team building, leadership, and communication skills, learn self-discipline, respect, and inclusive values, and be mentored by operational firefighters and community safety staff.
To apply, complete and return the Fire Cadets application form to the Fire Cadet Co-ordinator.
More details are available on the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service website.
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Ripple Effects Photography Competition
Ripple Effects is a photography competition for young people aged 8-18, living and learning across Morecambe Bay.
In partnership with the Morecambe Bay Curriculum, Lancaster University, Global Link, The Blue Influencers Scheme and local libraries, this competition invites young people to:
- Photograph water in your local area and
- Produce a short written reflection on what these spaces mean to you (100 words or less! It could just be a sentence.)
Winning images will be chosen by a panel of young people and will form part of an exhibition trail that features across libraries in November 2024 including Lancaster Library and Lancaster University Library. Winners will receive £100 of outdoor adventure equipment and access to a special winners’ photography workshop.
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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.
Taster Day at Claver Hill
Discover the Claver Hill Community Project and take home a share of the harvest! Explore food growing, natural dye plants, flowers, trees, and learn hands-on skills like coppicing, beekeeping, composting, and chemical-free gardening using the No Dig Method. Meet friendly people, share knowledge, and get involved. Dress for the weather, and bring gloves if you can.
Date & time: 21 September 2024, 11am – 4pm (Harvest lunch at 1pm)
Location: Claver Hill, Lancaster
For more info or to express interest, contact: [email protected].
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Closing Loops: All About Repair!
Come along to a repair-themed workshop in Lancaster, where you’ll explore ways to reduce waste by repairing items in our local area. Learn about repair cafes, hear success stories from across the country, and collaborate on ideas to start zero-waste projects in North Lancashire. The workshop also introduces the Pots of Possibility ‘Your Pots’ grant fund, which supports repair initiatives, with more information on the upcoming grant round. All are welcome to attend and contribute to these creative discussions.
Thursday August 29 2024, 6-8pm
Friends Meeting House, Lancaster
Find out more about this event
Book your place here
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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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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:
- 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.
National Cinema Day
Celebrate National Cinema Day with a twist at The Dukes’ Mystery Film screenings this weekend! With four surprise films throughout the day, ranging from PG to 18 ratings, you’ll be treated to anything from cult classics to forgotten gems. Plus, join in with a fun Film Quiz before the evening screening and you could win exciting prizes. Tickets are just £4. Embrace the unknown and discover something new!
Certification times
11am – PG, 1.30pm – 12A, 3.30pm – 15, 8.30pm – 18.
Date & time: Saturday 31 August 2024
Location: The Dukes Cinema, Lancaster
Find out more and for bookings
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Lancashire Marine Conservation Society Winter Schedule
The marine preservation charity Marine Conservation Society (MCS) have announced their schedule of winter events for you to include in your diary. The Conger Rock walk has been rescheduled to Saturday, September 21st for better accessibility. Upcoming events include a Roa Island Walk on August 22nd, several talks at Lancaster Maritime Museum on September 11th, October 9th, November 13th, and a Christmas Quiz on December 11th. Additional activities feature the Great British Beach Clean on September 22nd, a Beach Clean on December 7th, and a Christmas Meal on the evening of December 7th. It has been asked to confirm weather-dependent events closer to their dates.
Find out more on the Lancashire MCS website
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Venus Revisited Project Exhibition – Morecambe Library
King Street Arts are showcasing their Venus Revisited exhibition at Morecambe Library! Running for 3 days, this captivating showcase features ceramics and drawings created by 17 local women, reflecting on their personal journeys through menopause and ageing. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to view the collection. Also, Lancashire Libraries have a curated book display on related themes.
Proudly supported by Lancaster District CVS and Arts Council England.
Displaying until the 31 August
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Chapel Island Talk & Walk
This September, join The Morecambe Bay Partnership for a unique two-part event celebrating Chapel Island’s rich history and natural beauty. Begin with an online talk on September 25th, where you’ll learn about the island’s fascinating past and its role in protecting Morecambe Bay’s wildlife.
Then, on September 28th, take part in a guided walk across the sands, following in the footsteps of monks, fishermen, and travellers, with a rare visit to the historic Collins Weir. Tickets are limited, so be sure to book early to secure your spot for this memorable experience.
Learn more about this adventure
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Meet Your Muslim Neighbours
Visit Lancaster Central Library between 10am and 4pm and 31 August for another exciting Meet Your Muslim Neighbours event.
The afternoon will include a Discover Islam exhibition, interactive tours, kids activities, discussion and Q&A sessions, and free food and gift packs.
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Save The Date: Library Festival
The Library Festival 2024 is a two-day celebration showcasing the work of the Library, University, and community partners. Enjoy interactive exhibits, engaging activities, insightful talks, live music, their very own Race Across the Library (Fri only) and more.
All are welcome, staff, students, local friends and neighbours.
Are you an artist, performer, explorer? The call to be involved is still open, please contact: [email protected]
The dates for the festival are Friday 13 and Saturday 14 of September
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Housing Advice Drop-In
Are you suffering from domestic abuse and in need of housing advice? Please drop in and talk to the Domestic Abuse Housing Officer for help and advice on Thursdays 10am-2pm (from the 29 August) at Lancaster Town Hall.
If you can’t make it:
Visit: Lancaster.gov.uk/homeless
Email: [email protected]
Call: 01524 582257
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Space Available for Community Groups – Festival Market, Morecambe
Are you looking for a welcoming space to host community activities? Whether it’s a “Knit and Natter” session, a coffee meet-up for new mums, or chair aerobics with a fitness instructor, there is availability to run your session during the Festival market hours on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday. If interested, please contact [email protected]
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FAROUT Cinema Club
The Friends and Relationships Out and About Cinema Club takes place on the second Tuesday of each month. Meet at the Crafty Scholar at 4.30pm before visiting Vue to see a new release.
For more information contact Sarah by email at [email protected] or Mark by email at [email protected]
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CancerCare Events
CancerCare a promoting a number of fundraising challenges, events, and wellbeing activities through to March 2025, including participation in the Great North Run, the annual Santa Dash, and a fine dining evening.
Download the schedule here, or visit the CancerCare website for further information
Volunteer and Community Engagement coordinator
LESS is seeking an experienced volunteer and community engagement coordinator to work alongside the Grower and FarmStart Trainer to coordinate and expand regular volunteering at the Plot and engage a wider pool of volunteers in the project.
Closing date for applications: 12 noon, Thursday, 5 September
Email completed applications (CV and covering email) and queries to [email protected]
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Vacancies with Morecambe Town Council
Grounds Maintenance Manager Vacancy
The Council is developing community projects to enhance open spaces and civic pride. As Grounds Maintenance Manager, you’ll oversee public realm services, supervise Town Rangers, support events, and manage contracts, balancing desk work with hands-on duties.
Salary: SCP 29-32 (£19.41-£20.90ph) dependent on experience.
Contract: Permanent, full-time, 42.5 hours per week (inclusive of unpaid 30 minute lunch each day). Evening and weekend working may be required in the delivery of events and will be part of the flexible working arrangements.
Location: Morecambe
Closing date: 15 September 2024
Grounds Maintenance Operative | Town Ranger vacancy
Morecambe Town Council seeks a motivated Town Ranger to help enhance open spaces and boost civic pride. You’ll support community projects by maintaining public areas, including grass cutting, pruning, litter management, graffiti removal, and upkeep of outdoor facilities.
Salary: SCP 20 (£15.75ph)
Contract: Permanent, full-time, 40 hours per week. Evening and weekend working may be required in the delivery of events and will be part of the flexible working arrangements.
Location: Morecambe
Closing date: 15 September 2024
Find out more about this role and apply
Events Officer Vacancy
Morecambe Town Council seeks an Events Officer to plan and deliver community events aimed at boosting the economy, tourism, and civic pride. You’ll manage events from small gatherings to large festivals, ensuring smooth execution, budget control, and safety compliance.
Salary: SCP 32-36 (£20.90-£23.09ph) dependent on experience, skill set, and qualifications.
Contract: Permanent, full-time, 40 hours per week. Evening and weekend working may be required in the delivery of events and will be part of the flexible working arrangements.
Location: Morecambe
Closing date: 15 September 2024
Find out more about this role and apply
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Youth Development Manager – The Boathouse Youth
The Boathouse Youth is seeking a Youth Centre Manager to oversee its new Fleetwood facility. The role involves managing day-to-day operations, leading a team, and delivering engaging youth programmes. The ideal candidate will have at least three years of youth work and management experience, strong organisational skills, and the ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends. They will play a key role in promoting well-being, educational growth, and healthy lifestyles among young people, while also supporting community fundraising and strategic goals.
Salary: £32,341 – £36,447 per year
Contract: Full-time, permanent
Location: Fleetwood, Lancashire (on-site)
Closing date: 25 September 2024, 9pm
Find out more about this role and apply
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CAP Job Club Manager
The CAP Job Club Manager is responsible for setting up and coordinating a local CAP Job Club in partnership with a church to support job seekers in finding employment. The role involves leading the club’s three elements: Course, Community, and Coaching, providing both practical and emotional support to members.
Lancaster & Morecambe Christians Against Poverty are currently assessing the need for a Job Club locally and would like to hear from anyone who may be interested in leading this activity.
Salary: Unconfirmed
Contract: 6-8 hours a week for 24 or 36 weeks a year
Location: Lancaster & Morecambe
Closing date: Expressions of interest by Monday, Sept 2.
Expressions of interest (CV and covering letter) can be sent confidentially to Steven Hewitt, at [email protected]
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Vacancies with the Rainbow Trust
Kentown Programme Project Lead
Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity seeks a Programme Project Lead to manage and develop the Kentown Children’s Palliative Care Programme, working with health, education, and social care professionals to deliver high-quality family support services.
Salary:£29,000 – £34,000 + benefits (including company car, 25 days annual leave, reward scheme and pension)
Contract: Full-time, permanent
Location: Lancaster, Morecambe & Heysham, Lancashire (hybrid)
Closing date: 31 August 2024, 5.11pm
Find out more about this role and apply
Kentown Family Support Worker
Rainbow Trust is looking to appoint a Kentown Family Support Worker to deliver a high-quality family support service as part of the pilot Kentown Children’s Palliative Care Programme, in collaboration with Kentown Wizard and Together for Short Lives.
Reporting to the Kentown Project Lead out of the Lancaster team base and working in partnership with health, education and social care professionals, you will take responsibility for providing needs-led emotional, social and practical support to families where a child/young person has a life threatening or terminal illness
Salary: £23,000
Contract: Full-time, permanent
Location: Kendal, Penrith, Keswick, Carlisle, Cumbria and Cumberland
Closing date: 31 August 2024, 11.59pm
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]
