Information and Advice for the Lancaster District’s Third Sector – 5 April 2024

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

An archive of previous editions can be found here.

Click headings below to expand each section.

Going for Net Zero Swop Shop
Aiming for net zero isn’t just essential for creating a liveable, sustainable world; it can also make your organisation more efficient in a variety of ways.

The latest in the LDCVS quarterly ‘Swop Shop Skill Share Network’ aims to share best practice and give practical advice on what we can do as third-sector organisations to help achieve net zero.

By the end of this session, you will understand:

  • how to assess your direct and indirect carbon impact
  • how to make changes that will reduce this
  • how to set sustainability targets
  • what funding is available to help you reduce your footprint

The session will cover areas such as buildings and offices, transport, procurement and waste management. It will be facilitated by three experts in carbon reduction, all of whom have experience working with the third sector in the Lancaster district. You will have the chance to ask questions specific to your case.

Our panel of experts: 

  • Georgina Somerville (Green Rose Energy)
  • Dr Zoe Detko (Ardea Eco-innovation; formerly of Lancaster Environment Centre)
  • Dr Jan Maskell (Sustainability Consultant)

The session will be on Friday 19th April, 10.30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Lancaster & Morecambe College Employer Hub, LA1 2TZ.

It is free to attend, but places are limited and must be booked. The formal session ends at 12.30, but you are invited to bring along a pack lunch and network informally from 12.30 to 1. Tea, coffee and biscuits are provided.

Book your free ticket here, and we hope to see you there.

Our AGM – A Thank you from our Chief Officer
“Thank you, colleagues, for attending our AGM. It really does mean a great deal to us that you as our members and as our partners support the work we do. For over 50 years, our organisation has and continues to ensure we:

  • Support you as our members in every way we can.
  • Work with you to shape local services so that they best meet the needs our communities.
  • Bring everyone together to build relationships, share support and learn from each other.
  • Help you as our members to access the resources funding and support you need.

These are the areas we pride ourselves on and everyone of us at Lancaster District CVS are proud to work with you and support you. And it’s with massive thanks to you for keeping us motivated. For all your kind comments we receive, for your support at our events, for the sharing what we do with your communities, and for always supporting our mission – which is to help improve the lives of people living in our communities.

It goes without saying that what we do at Lancaster District CVS is down to the amazing board of trustees, our dedicated volunteers and the passion, enthusiasm and dedication of the staff team. Why we do it is simple – it’s because the sector changes people’s lives and we want to make it as simple as possible for you to do more good. So, thank you again everyone – we are always here whether it be a listening ear or whether you need to discuss any aspect of your work.”

If you weren’t able to make it but would like to find out more, take a look at our latest Annual Report and Accounts, which includes a comprehensive review of our work over the period.

Road Safety Trust Small Grants Round
Grants of between £10,000 and £50,000 are available for projects lasting up to 24 months that make UK roads safer.

The aim of the fund is to improve road safety at a local level through projects with a practical focus, linking to local priorities and reducing casualties either directly or through interim measures.

Grants are available to public sector bodies, UK registered charities, not-for-profit social enterprises and CICs.

Find out more and apply

Lloyds Bank Foundation Racial Equity Programme
42 grants of £75,000 over three years will be provided alongside tailored development support for registered charities and CICs which are led by and working with people who are experiencing economic inequity because of their race or ethnicity.

A information webinar and live Q&A will be held via Zoom on 24 April at 10:30am. Register here to attend.

Find out more and apply

Urban Tree Challenge Fund
This fund, offered by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, helps public bodies, non-government organisations, community groups, charities, individuals and private companies, to support the planting and establishment of large and small trees in urban and peri-urban areas of England.

The fund aims to level-up access to nature across the country, planting trees in socially deprived urban areas with low canopy cover.

Funds are available for 80% of the cost of planting and establishment over three years.

Apply by 30 June.

Find out more

CAF Venturesome Impact Fund
This fund offers flexible finance options designed to help your social organisation ease cashflow, develop new services or purchase assets – all of which can play an important part in sustaining and growing your impact.

Investment is unrestricted and includes unsecured loans, blended finance (part loan/part grant), and standby facilities.

Loans are offered between £50,000 and £1 million over 3-5 years.

Find out more

Tesco Stronger Starts Footie for All
Footie for All grants will support grassroots football clubs in providing more spaces, better equipment and new kits – anything they need to help support children in their local communities.

150 £1,000 grants are available. The deadline for applications is 30 April.

Find out more and apply

New Funding Opportunity for the Youth Homelessness Sector (UK)
As part of its new funding strategy, Comic Relief has announced that it will be launching a new fund for organisations that specialise in providing support to young people aged 16-25 in the UK, who are at risk of, or experiencing homelessness. The opportunity will be for organisations that are already working in this area. Further funding criteria is being developed.

Information about the funding and the application process will be made available in April 2024.

Visit the comic relief funding opportunities page

Baring Foundation Offers Funding for Small Expert Legal Hub Organisations
The Baring Foundation is offering grants of up to £150,000 over three years for small expert legal ‘hub’ organisations aiming to achieve positive social change through legal action collaboration. Eligible organisations must have an income of under £750,000 and meet specific criteria outlined in the application guidelines.

The deadline for the first stage of applications is April 30, 2024.

More details and application guidelines are available on their website.

Cycling UK Reopens Big Bike Revival Grants Programme for Summer 2024
Cycling UK is offering grants of up to £3,500 for voluntary and community cycle groups in England to promote cycling and improve safety. The focus for the Summer 2024 round is on encouraging participants to return to subsequent events and to support underrepresented groups in cycling. Funding can be used for various purposes, including equipment purchases, venue hires, and promotion costs.

Applications are open until June 25, 2024.

Visit the Cycling UK website for more information

Community Ownership Fund Accepting Expressions of Interest for Final Round
The UK Government is launching Round 4 of the Community Ownership Fund to help community groups acquire or renovate assets important to local communities. Express your interest via a simplified form for quicker results. Visit the GOV.UK website for details.

Local School Nature Grants Programme Accepting Applications for First 2024 Funding Round
The Local School Nature Grants Programme offers outdoor learning training and nature equipment worth up to £500 for nurseries, schools, and early learning providers. Applications for the first funding round of 2024 are now open. Priority is given to projects involving children in decision-making and benefiting the local community. Contact [email protected] for more details.

Apply before April 26, 2024

7Stars Foundation Accepting Applications for Second 2024 Funding Round
The 7stars Foundation offers grants of up to £2,500 for registered charities with annual turnover under £1.5 million, supporting projects for young people under 16 in areas of abuse, addiction, child carers, and homelessness. Funding includes project grants, Shine Bright grants for items, and Social Impact funding aligned with awareness days. Trustees review applications four times a year.

Apply before 30 April 2024.

Find out more here

DfE’s Trust Capacity Fund 2023-25 Accepting Applications
The Trust Capacity Fund (TCaF) supports multi-academy trusts (MATs) in England to grow, particularly in education investment areas, by taking on underperforming schools.

Applications for the next round of funding are open from March 1, 2024, to June 25, 2024.

Learn more about this funding opportunity

ENWL Storm Arwen Community Resilience Fund
Electricity Northwest Limited (ENWL) is offering grants to local volunteer-led organisations, not-for-profit community organisations, local registered charities, and parish councils in Cumbria, Derbyshire, Lancashire, and surrounding areas impacted by Storm Arwen in 2021. The grants aim to improve resilience to future emergency and extreme weather events. Priority will be given to projects enhancing community facilities, services, and communication for local response during emergencies. Funding ranges from £1,000 to £10,000, with exceptions up to £15,000. Eligible projects include community communications hubs, hot food provision facilities, and generator installations.

Learn more about this fund
Find out more about eligible postcodes

Congratulations to Easyfundraising Donation Recipients
Voluntary organisations in our area have just received a share of £1.6m in easyfundraising donations, meaning they can update their facilities, buy new equipment, and improve their services. Through easyfundraising, 8,000 online retailers including Sainsbury’s, eBay, Amazon, M&S, Just Eat and Argos will donate money to your organisation. To find out more and receive funds in easyfundraising’s next #donationday in May, visit www.easyfundraising.org.uk/lancaster

Kellogg’s School Breakfast Club Grants
Kellogg’s is working with Forever Manchester to award grants of £1,000 to school breakfast clubs across the UK.

Priority will be given to schools that have either 35% or above of children eligible for pupil premium funding or free school meals, or that are based in an area which is classified as falling in the 10% of most deprived areas according to the Index of Multiple Deprivation.

Apply at any time, however the fund will close if oversubscribed.

Find out more

Heart Research UK Healthy Heart Grants
Healthy Heart Grants of up to £15,000 are offered for community projects aimed at supporting adults to reduce their risk of coronary heart disease, helping them to live healthier, happier and longer lives. Grants are available to charities and community interest companies across the UK.

The funding is for new projects that work with communities to prevent heart disease, particularly for vulnerable and isolated groups of individuals who are at an increased risk of developing heart problems in the future.

Projects that are likely to have a big impact and have considered novel ways to encourage people to look after their hearts and promote positive lifestyle changes are also sought.

Applications for grants in the north of England can be made between 8 May and 5 June

Find out more

Pots of Possibility Community Pots Round 2
Do you have an idea for a community initiative that could help with:

  • 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
The second Community Pots round of the Pots of Possibility fund will be open for applications between 18 March and 30 April, providing grants of up to £5,000 for projects taking place anywhere in the Lancaster district (Lancaster, Morecambe, Carnforth and all the surrounding rural areas).
 
 
If you’ve got questions about the fund or would like to tell us more about your idea, we’re also holding drop-ins at:
  • Morecambe Library (1:30pm – 3:30pm on 26 March)
  • The Sustainability Hub at Marketgate (10am – 12 noon on 27 March)
  • Brief Encounter Bistro in Carnforth (10am – 12 noon on 9 April)

Funding to Support Music and Heritage Projects Across the UK
The Radcliffe Trust offers grants ranging from £2,500 to £7,500 for projects in Music and Heritage & Crafts. Music grants support classical music performance, education, composition, therapy, and more. Heritage & Crafts grants aid traditional cultural heritage and crafts development, including emerging craftspeople and conservation projects. Applications are accepted twice a year, allowing organisations to apply for both music and heritage grants simultaneously.

The next deadline for applications is 31 July 2024

Further details click here

Michael Tippett Musical Foundation Accepting Applications for 2024
The Michael Tippett Musical Foundation offers grants to support performances or recordings of music composed by Michael Tippett. Grants range from £500 to £3,000, with priority given to less frequently performed works or projects involving young people. Applications must be submitted by September 30, 2024, for projects starting in January 2025. Detailed project descriptions and budgets are required.

The deadline for applications is 30 September 2024.  Projects for consideration should start not earlier than January 2025.

Find out more about this fund and how to apply

Trust Establishment and Growth Fund to Open for Final Round on 1 March 2024
The Trust Establishment and Growth Fund, provided by the Department for Education, supports the creation or expansion of multi-academy trusts (MATs) in England. It is available to trusts, schools, dioceses, and other organisations aiming to establish a new MAT. Before applying, applicants must discuss their proposal with their regional director’s office and review the guidelines. Completed application forms and expenditure plans must be submitted via email by the specified deadline.

Application window 4 opens on 1st March 2024, submission deadline of 25th June 2024 for planned grant activities starting 1st August 2024.

Learn more about this fund

UK Schools with STEM Partners Can Apply Now for Grants to Support Autumn Projects
The Royal Society’s Partnership Grant scheme offers grants of up to £3,000 for collaborative STEM projects between UK schools and academic or industry partners. Projects must aim to engage children aged 5 to 18 in science and engineering, with funding primarily for equipment purchase. Applications are accepted throughout the year, with deadlines for different project start dates.

The first deadline is the end of April with notification in July for term projects to start from October 2024.

Visit the Royal Society’s website for more

NLCF’s Climate Action Fund (Energy and Climate)
The new Climate Action Fund, opening on March 27, will focus on inspiring more people to take climate action. £8.5 million is available for 8 to 12 projects with grants of up to £1.5 million over 2 to 5 years.

Find out more and apply

Baring Foundation’s New Funding Round Focuses on Creativity for Men with Mental Health Problems
The Baring Foundation is offering grants of £20,000 to £50,000 for projects addressing the under-representation of men in participatory creative activities for individuals with mental health issues in the UK. Projects must prioritise men least likely to participate, considering intersectionality factors such as age, race, sexuality, and disability.

Total funding available is £1 million, with projects lasting at least one year. Eligible applicants include established UK arts organisations with a track record of providing creative opportunities for individuals with mental health problems for at least two years and an annual income over £75,000 for the past two years. Zoom meetings will be held on 4th and 19th March for enquiries.

Applications are currently being accepted with a deadline of 23 April 2024 (noon).

Learn more about this fund and how to apply

Eric Wright Charitable Trust 2024
Once again, Lancaster District CVS is working with the Eric Wright Charitable Trust to distribute grants of up to £500 to community organisations with an annual income below £50,000. Projects simply need to show how they can make a positive difference to the lives and wellbeing of people of any age.

Unlike previous years, there are no fixed application deadlines. Apply for funding at any time up until midnight on 31 July, 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]

Improving Rail Travel for Blind & Partially Sighted People
The Department for Transport (DfT) have started to implement a number of reforms in how the railway is run, but there have been delays and problems with this programme.

You can help RNIB tell the Department of Transport how to improve rail travel for blind and partially sighted people by sharing your experiences by joining a focus group via Teams being held on Monday 8 April 1-2pm or Wednesday 10 April 7-8pm.

If you have had experience of any of the following things, or if the lack of them has affected your willingness or ability to make train journeys, please email [email protected] for the joining link or to share your experiences.

  • train punctuality
  • fare simplicity
  • communications on trains, at stations and on smart devices.
  • “seamless” journeys where train travel connects with bus/tram/bike travel
  • the process of claiming compensation
  • staff training
  • digital tickets
  • contactless ticketing
  • pay as you go ticketing
  • flexible season tickets

Campaigning & Political Activity
With a general election likely to take place this year, it is important to keep updated about the rules around charities, campaigning and political activity.

ACEVO and NCVO have put together a briefing about the law for our sector, and Lloyds Bank have put together a guide focused specifically on small charities during elections.

Charity Banking Survey
Since 2022, the Civil Society Group and partners have been working to improve bank account services for charities and voluntary organisations across the UK. They have launched a new survey to help them understand the challenges the sector is facing so that they can advocate on behalf of our sector to regulators, government, and the banking sector.

Find out more and take the survey

April 2024 Employment Law Changes
Several changes to employment law and regulations come into force from April. These include rights related to flexible working, carer’s leave, holiday entitlement, paternity leave and redundancy.

People Management have published a useful roundup of April’s changes.

Carnforth Food Club – Opening 5 April
Lancaster District Food Justice Partnership are opening a new food club in the Carnforth Community Hub.

The club will be open every Friday from 5 April, between 2pm and 4pm. A £5 weekly membership helps reduce your shopping bill and stops food from going to waste.

Find out more about how to become a member by emailing [email protected] or phoning 01524 928027

Download the promotional poster to find out more

LSCFT Strategy Refresh Workshop
Whether you attended the recent LSCFT Strategy Refresh workshop or missed it, here are the slides from the workshop, along with a survey link for your valuable feedback.

LSCFT are adapting their strategies to reflect the changing landscape post-COVID-19. While the Trust Values and Quality Priorities remain unchanged, they’re introducing the Quadruple Aim framework to guide objectives moving forward. LSCFT are also keen to engage with colleagues and partners to shape strategic goals, focusing on themes like partnership working, mental health provision, and access to services.

Your input is important – please take a moment to complete the survey and share your thoughts. For more details, visit their website. Questions? Contact the LSCFT strategic team at [email protected]

The Long-Term Plan for Towns
Following the Spring Budget, the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities’ Long-Term Plan for Towns plans to invest £1.5 billion towns across the UK over the next decade.

Each town will develop a long-term plan based on the priorities of local people, around the themes of safety and security; high streets and heritage; and transport and connectivity. Towns will receive £20 million and establish Town Boards to work with local communities to develop these plans… Read more

Lloyds Bank to Invest in Community Development
Lloyds Banking Group is to be the lead investor in a £62mn fund that will back community development finance institutions, becoming the UK’s first high street bank to support the not-for-profit lenders that offer credit to customers who cannot access it elsewhere…Read more

Spring Budget 2024 – A Round Up from NAVCA
In the Spring Budget 2024, a few highlights include the extension of the Household Support Fund and a 2% reduction in employee national insurance contributions. However, it doesn’t cover everything, especially in areas like adult social care and education. There’s concern that the planned 1% increase in government spending isn’t enough, potentially leading to big cuts in other areas by 2028. On the brighter side, inflation is expected to drop, but taxes might go up. The budget includes more money for the NHS, improvements in public services, and help for families with their finances. Plus, there are changes in taxes, support for charities, and plans for local areas to have more control over their own decisions.

Read more of the NAVCA Spring Budget 2024 summary

Lancashire Voluntary and Community Sector Questionnaire
Lancashire County Council is looking to enhance its prevention and support offer within Adult Social Care and are looking to work alongside Voluntary and Community Sector organisations to develop future services alongside them.

Please take the time to complete this questionnaire if you would like further information around working with them in the future.

The Low Pay Commission’s 2023 Report
The Commission has recently published their report for 2023, setting out the evidence and analysis Commissioners relied on when making recommendations to the Government on minimum wage rates for this year.

The report examines the state of the UK economy, developments in the labour market, who minimum wage workers are, and how employers respond to minimum wage rises.

Download the report here

BeWell’s Staff Wellbeing Toolkit
BeWell exists to improve the wellbeing of people working in organisations that support refugees, asylum seekers and migrants. Their new Wellbeing Toolkit is intended to encourage organisations and their staff to have inclusive conversations about wellbeing and to help them create wellbeing policies.

Access the toolkit here

Stop Hate UK’s Hate Crime Toolkit
The Responding to Hate Crime Toolkit emerged from training provided by Stop Hate UK to organisations working with refugees and migrants. It has been provided in order to help our sector better respond to hate crime in communities and spread this knowledge to their clients.

Download the toolkit here

An A.I. Checklist for Charity Trustees and Leaders
AI is a much-discussed topic and can have real benefits for charities. But there are also drawbacks and it is worth thinking about its use carefully.

Digital change expert Zoe Amar has written this helpful checklist intended to assist community organisations in understanding how this emerging technology is changing the lives of their beneficiaries, and what this could mean for the decisions about strategy, scrutiny and support that need to be made around the board table.

Access the checklist here

Call for Expressions of Interest for Space in Lancaster City Centre
Escape2Make (E2M) are hoping to open a small space in the centre of Lancaster in the next few months.

Escape2Make will not need to use the space from 9am-3.30 from Monday – Friday and also on Sundays (during term times). They would love to collaborate with other organisations that work with young people and might benefit from a space in Lancaster City Centre.

To put in an expression of interest and receive more information please write to [email protected]

How Can You Recruit Volunteers More Effectively?
Volunteer recruitment is essential for any organisation, but finding the right people can be challenging. This guide, written by Gerbrand Holland at Deedmob, offers insights and strategies to navigate this process effectively.

Read the guide online

Independent Visitor at National Youth Advocacy Service
Independent Visitors directly support and befriend a child or young person who is under Local Authority care. The aim is to support them by visiting, advising, giving them practical help where possible, and acting as a trusted friend.

Find out more on our website

Trustees, Directors and Chair at The Gregson
The Gregson is seeking to appoint a new Chair and Trustees to the board of the Gregson Community Association, and an additional Director for the newly established Gregson Trading Ltd which manages the bar and catering.

Find out more on The Gregson’s website

Lune Valley Beekeepers Social Media Volunteer
The role entails 1-2 hours of work each week inserting newsworthy articles on social media with the active support of the trustees. 

You do not need to be a beekeeper but the role is likely to appeal to someone who is interested in natural history and improving our local environment. The person should be experienced in managing Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp social media.

For an initial chat about what the role entails, please contact Nigel Leech on 07795 437444.

Lancaster Health Festival Volunteers

The 2024 Lancaster Health Festival takes place on 13 and 14 July. Organisers are looking for volunteers to support the event by:

  • giving out leaflets and directing people to activities
  • general stewarding
  • helping out on the smoothie bike

Find out more on our website

Become a Trustee at Lancashire Youth Challenge
LYC empower, enable, and inspire young people to make meaningful positive change in their lives and the wider community via a holistic, person centred programme of participatory activity and learning.

They now seek new trustees to join their award-winning charity, particuarly people with diverse lived experiences which can help LYC enhance networks and build meaningful relationships with organisations, donors and sponsors.

Find out more on our website

Morecambe Maritime Festival Volunteers
Take part in the development and implementation of a new festival for Morecambe and help raise funds for the festival’s nominated charity, the RNLI.

Find out more about three roles on our website:

Secretary

Treasurer

Marketing & Publicity Coordinator

Community Cars Volunteer Driver
Make yourself and your vehicle available to assist members of your community get to shops, services, social activities and appointments.

Volunteer as and when you are available with additional insurance provided to cover your excess and no-claims bonus.

Find out more on our website

Maternity & Neonatal Engagement Volunteers with Healthwatch Lancashire
A Maternity and Neonatal Voices Partnership (MNVP) is an independently led NHS working group for mothers, birthing people and families to share their maternity and neonatal experiences with commissioners and providers.

As an MNVP volunteer, you will be an essential part of a team which ensures people’s voices are collected and heard in the right places.

Find out more and apply

Community Road Watch Volunteers
Lancashire Constabulary are looking for volunteers to join their Community Road Watch Scheme in Lancaster and Morecambe.

Community Road Watch involves Police working together with local communities at sites where people are worried about road safety. Volunteers work with local officers to address various driving issues including drivers exceeding the speed limit, use of mobile phones and drivers and passengers not wearing seat belts and/or child restraints. The team monitors and records driver behaviour so that action can then be taken.

Find out more

Spring Events with The Bay
Experience the joys of spring with a series of exciting community events coming up soon. From Spring Crabbing on Saturday, March 30th, to Art in the Park – on Friday, April 5th, and the Easter Eggcase Hunt on Monday, April 8th, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

These events, hosted by The Bay, offer opportunities for volunteers to get involved. Sign up using the Community Events Volunteer Sign Up sheet or reach out directly to indicate your availability. Additionally, volunteers interested in leadership and planning roles are encouraged to participate. Contact Angela Nagorski at [email protected] for more information on attending.

Trustee opportunity with Escape2Make
E2M are looking for a new trustee who would oversee safeguarding for the charity. This is a highly important role, working closely with the E2M team to ensure the safety of young people in our activity and supporting us to address any safeguarding issues that arise. Ideally this would be a current or former youth worker, teacher, or someone who has experience being a DSL working with lots of young people. How to Apply: Email CV and cover letter (or ask for more info) to Jane Samson at [email protected]    

Escape2Make is an equal opportunity employer, encouraging diverse candidates to apply.

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.

Befriending Volunteers
Lancaster District CVS recently produced some videos with some volunteers at Bay Volunteers to help help recruit more befrienders. You can see them at the links below. Please share them!

Steve, our communications officer, has done a magnificent job, and if we can help to get the message out far and wide about what it means to be a befriender, perhaps more people will come forward to support those in need.

View and share the Facebook post

View and share the X / Twitter post

Admin volunteers needed for Promenade Orchestra
The Promenade Concert Orchestra is looking for volunteers to help carry out administration tasks such as maintaining their website and social media, assisting with fundraising, banking and financial duties, publicity and much more!

There’s lots to be done, but it won’t all be down to a single person. What you do can depend on your existing skills and interests.

Find out more on the LDCVS website.

Volunteer Opportunities at MS Society
MS Society groups provide belonging, unity and friendship, and they deliver services and support for their local MS community.

The Lancaster, Morecambe and District Group is looking for a Communications Volunteer to communicate across a range of digital channels, an Activities Volunteer who will help set up and run activities, and an Activities Organiser who will develop and plan an annual calendar of events.

Find out more on the LDCVS website: Communications Volunteer / Activities Volunteers / Activities Organiser

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visit the guide here

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.

Measles Immunisation for Adults
Supporting the UKHSA’s campaign to promote MMR vaccination for 0-5 year olds, Lancashire County Council has circulated materials relating to MMR for the adult population.

Information leaflet

Posters for printing and display (version 1, version 2)

Social media graphics (.zip file)

Healthy Weight Programme
Lancaster City Council is offering free weight management courses for adults over 18 years of age who are overweight. Courses last 12 weeks, for an hour each week, and are held at Ridge Community Centre, Salt Ayre Leisure Centre, and More Music. There is also a 12 week email course which is entirely online.

On completion of the course, participants will be offered a free 12 week membership of Salt Ayre Leisure Centre.

Download the flyer to find out more

LGBTQ+ Awareness in Mental Health Services
The focus of these workshops, offered by Lancashire LGBT+, is on the experience of LGBTQ+ people accessing mental health services, with the aim of improving access, removing barriers and improve patient experience.

These training sessions will be co-delivered by LGBTQ+ people who have lived experience of accessing mental health services. This is part of the Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS mental health transformation project.

18 April, 10am – 3:30pm at Holiday Inn, Caton Road, Lancaster

Find out more and book

You&Me, Mum Groups
You&Me, Mum is an 8 week programme which aims to empower, support and develop further understanding of the role as mothers in addressing the needs of children and young people who have lived with domestic violence. The next group sessions of You&Me, Mum will be held at Lune Park Childrens Centre (Owen Rd, Lancaster LA1 2LN) every Monday from 8th April at 1.30pm-2.30pm.

For more information or to refer please email [email protected]

Parents Supporting Parents
Parents Supporting Parents is a welcoming group designed for parents seeking guidance on supporting their children through life’s challenges, including managing phones, friendships, school, and anxiety. This informal gathering offers a space to share ideas and experiences because parenting is undoubtedly challenging.

Meetings are held on the last Tuesday of every month from 7:45 to 9:15 PM at Marsh Community Centre, Willow Lane LA1 5PP.

For more information, contact Debz at [email protected] or Katie at [email protected] or 07868314807. Get in touch and join this group for support and solidarity.

See their group poster here

UKHSA 0-5s Immunisation Campaign
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) have launched a campaign highlighting the importance of immunisation to protect children.

Measles outbreaks occur when vaccination rates are low, and the disease can lead to severe complications including infections and even death. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are needed for optimal protection. Parents should ensure their child receives both doses, even if they’re overdue, by contacting their GP.

If unsure about previous vaccinations, it’s better to administer two doses now rather than risk leaving the child unprotected. For more information, visit the nhs website.

View the measles information sheet

Download the Measles How to Stay Safe leaflet

Have you heard about StreetSafe?
Are you familiar with StreetSafe? It’s an online platform where you can anonymously share locations where you feel unsafe, even if no crime has occurred. StreetSafe has been introduced as part of the Government’s response to tackling violence against women and girls and identify areas where there are fears caused by other things such as anti-social behaviour and environmental issues. The aim is to help identify areas of concern and implement measures to enhance safety.

Visit Lancashire Police online to learn more. Please remember, this tool is not for reporting incidents; for that, call 101 or 999 in emergencies.

Carnforth Rotary’s Mental Health & Wellbeing Conference
Community organisations involved in supporting mental health and wellbeing are invited to this conference taking place on Friday 19 April between 10am and 1:30pm at Crag Bank Village Hall.

Speakers include representatives from Active Lancashire, Lancashire & South Cumbria ICB, Lancashire & South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust, and The Well Communities.

Afterwards there will time for refreshments and networking opportunities.

Download the event poster and email Arthur Jones at [email protected] to find out more.

NEW BLOG – Adult Social Groups for All Ages | Visit to Adullam
In our latest Health and Wellbeing blog ‘Discover Wellness in the Lancaster District’ we are focussing on one of the Five Ways to Wellbeing: Connect. It is the most important of the Five Ways (the others are Be Active, Take Notice, Keep Learning, and Give) but these days it is not always easy to do.  Many of us feel lonely and isolated and are looking for new ways to connect with others and find our tribe. 

Just before Christmas we went along to Hope Church on Queen Street in Lancaster to visit Adullam’s “Coffee Time” group, which takes place every week on Tuesday morning. The group were already deep into wreath making guided by an expert hand using natural materials that they had foraged the week before on a trip out to Littledale.

Adullam “offer people within the community an opportunity to build new friendships, learn new skills and receive help and advice for life’s challenges”… Read more

British Red Cross Workshops for Schools & Youth Groups
These free workshops, covering humanitarian and wellbeing topics, are designed to teach vital life skills including confidence, resilience building and developing empathy for others.

Topics include first aid, empathy plus migration, and coping with challenges.

Workshops can be delivered online or face-to-face, and an additional set of resources is available for further use.

Find out more

Lancaster Music Festival Youth Academy Coordinator
Lancaster Music Festival CIC is looking for a young person between the ages of 18 and 25 to work with their board to plan and manage this summer’s LMF Academy Youth Mentoring Programme and the festival’s Youth Stage.

The role is funded by the Banks Lyon Memorial Trust and will be contracted on a part-time freelance basis at an average of one day per week between April and October for around 200 hours at £11.75 per hour.

Closing date: 15 April at 5pm

Download the job pack to find out more

Wildlife Trust Youth Council
The Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester & North Merseyside is seeking new members for their Youth Council.

The Youth Council is a group of young people aged between 13 and 25 who live across Lancashire, Manchester, and North Merseyside. They are volunteers who are dedicated to improving the Trust and its offering for young people. This includes helping to tailor the campaign calendar, giving input on the marketing plan, and creating events and volunteering opportunities specifically for those under 25.

The Youth Council is passionate about protecting the local environment, inspiring other young people to take action, and creating positive change across the region and beyond.

Youth Council members attend four meetings a year, and travel expenses are provided.

Find out more and apply

Banks Lyon Memorial Trust Step Up Fund
This fund will help individual young people living in Lancaster District in the age range 16-24 facing social and/or financial barriers to accessing education, training or employment with the aim of helping the young person into employment.

The grants to young people can be spent on anything which will help the young person progress on the route to employment. The maximum spend on any one individual is £250.

For more information, please contact [email protected]

Parent & Baby Sessions – The Virtual Group Programme
Lancashire Healthy Young People & Families Service offers free Health Visiting and School Nursing Services across Lancashire, providing support from antenatal to early childhood and up to age 19 (or 25 for SEND). They offer guidance on various health-related issues and work with professionals to assist young families and carers. Their weekly virtual schedule of parental support sessions include:

  • Understanding Colic & Reflux (Tuesday)
  • Moving into Solids (Wednesday)
  • Baby & Me (Thursday)
  • Bump, Birth & Beyond (Friday)

View the schedule here
Visit their Facebook page

Lancashire Constabulary Youth Advisory Group
Lancashire Constabulary are launching their first Youth Advisory Group and are seeking the views of residents aged 14-21 from Lancashire.

The group will be an open and safe environment for young people to provide honest and constructive feedback about policing policies and matters to senior officers within the police.

The police want to understand the issues young people are facing as they work to develop and improve policies and the policing service.

Find out more

JUNK to FUNK Challenge
The Lancashire Association of Boys and Girls Clubs are bringing back their exciting JUNK TO FUNK challenge! This year, the challenge runs as an ongoing project, offering flexibility to integrate it into your club program at any time throughout 2024. The task is to design and craft an outfit using only recycled materials like newspapers, egg boxes, and juice cartons – no recycled clothing allowed!

You have until September 30th, 2024, to submit your creations. With up to four accessories allowed and teams of up to 10 young people per group (multiple groups permitted), this challenge aims to spark conversations about waste reduction and recycling. To participate, simply complete your project and submit the submission form by the deadline. For further details, contact Louise at [email protected] Let your imagination run wild and turn junk into funky fashion!

View the competition e-leaflet here

Exploring a Local Food Hub & Community Farm
In these sessions, LESS will share information about two exciting new projects:

  • A community food hub pilot planned for 2024, connecting local food producers to consumers
  • The purchase of a site in the district for a community farm

25 April, 6pm – 7pm (food hub) and 7:15pm – 8:15pm (community farm)

Find out more and save your place for one or both sessions.

Transform your Garden ‘Where the Wildings Are’ Style!
This two hour workshop will help you revamp your garden to include food growing, rewilding and outdoor living spaces. You’ll learn many of the tips and tricks that have been used to create beautiful, low maintenance gardens for food growing and wildlife so that you can apply these principles to your own garden for optimum results.

21 April, 9am  11am at Scotch Quarry Community Garden. Tickets £50

Find out more and book

Give & Take Day at The Gregson
Unwanted homewares (kitchenware, utensils, pictures, ornaments, toys, book etc.) are the focus of the forthcoming Give & Take Day being held between 10am and 1pm on 13 April.

Items can be dropped off in the Cafe Bar between 5pm and 7pm on 9 April, or between 2pm and 4pm on 12 April.

Find out more on The Gregson’s website

FarmStart Business Game
This interactive workshop hosted by The Plot will enable you to put yourself in the shoes of a small-scale vegetable grower for the day. You’ll work with other participants to create a vegetable growing business, pick a site and ‘run’ your business.

26 April, 10am – 3pm at the Friends Meeting House.

Find out more and book your ticket

Community Meal and Conversation – Going Beyond Surplus Food
The conversation will explore the increasing challenge of accessing surplus food to supply the District’s food support organisations, including food banks and food clubs. What alternatives exist to the current surplus food model? And what can we do as communities to create more fair access to healthy and sustainable food?

This is part of a week of ‘Spring into Action’ events to celebrate North Lancashire’s Silver Sustainable Food Places award.

22 April, 6pm – 9pm at Father’s House, Skerton.

Book your place here

Nature Recovery Strategy Survey
Following up on recent workshops and other events relating to Lancashire’s Nature Recovery Strategy, the County Council has now opened a consultation survey to the public.

This is a chance to share your experiences and views about Lancashire’s natural environment and the biggest environmental issues we face locally.

Find out more and respond

Food Systems Game Workshop
Are you involved with a food-related project in and around Lancaster? Are you interested in discussing your work with like-minded local people and developing a Serious Game about food systems? If so, Ishara Press is inviting you to create a Transition Game at a free workshop. Transition Games are educational games that simulate real-life plans, raise awareness, build team spirit and motivation, and give players a safe space for experimenting and foreseeing both opportunities and setbacks that may happen along your transition path.

The Transition Games workshop will be held in Lancaster Board and Sword, 28 Sun St, Lancaster LA1 1EW, on 18 May 2024 from 10:30am to 1pm (doors at 10am). Tea, coffee and refreshments will be available. Spaces for this workshop are limited to 12, so reserve your place early to avoid disappointment.

To sign up or find out more, please email [email protected] and put ‘Transition Games workshop’ in the subject line.

North Lancs Silver Celebration
North Lancashire has been awarded the prestigious Sustainable Food Places Silver award for its outstanding efforts in promoting sustainable food practices. Achieving Silver after four years of dedicated work, the region’s application highlights progress across various aspects of the food system, from reducing food waste to promoting healthy and local food procurement. The award celebrates collaborative efforts involving individuals, organisations, and community groups.

FoodFutures is hosting a Silver Award Celebration on April 20, 2024, followed by Spring Into Action events from April 21 to 28. Activities include networking sessions, skill shares, mushroom growing, fermenting workshops, and more.

There’s now discussion about aiming for Gold, with a poll to gather opinions, reflecting the ongoing commitment to enhancing the local food system.

Silverdale’s Coppice Co-op
Coppicing is an ancient form of woodland management and involves cutting trees down at ground level to promote multi-stemmed regrowth. The harvested materials – or rods – are then processed to create a wide range of products.

This Spring, Silverdale’s Coppice Co-op is keen to develop local links with Allotment Groups, growing and community projects to see if they can use their products. Depending on the size of the order, they may be able to offer free delivery and a brief talk or demonstration too.

Find out more and get in touch

Should North Lancashire go for Gold?
North Lancashire recently received a Silver Sustainable Food Places Award, recognising and celebrating the success of taking a joined up, holistic approach to food.

Now, FoodFutures is asking: should North Lancashire go for a Gold award?

Find out more about what this would involve, and take part in a poll to give your opinion.

Search for a new community farm site
LESS, a Lancaster-based social enterprise, is seeking to buy land for a community farm. They are looking for 10-60 acres to be used for food growing, as an education and training centre, and to host a range of other small enterprises and community projects.

LESS would love to hear from landowners who have an interest in passing land into community ownership and who would work with LESS during the next 6-12 months to complete a sale.

Find out more

Lancaster City Council Recycling Banks
Lancaster City Council have recently installed a number of new recycling banks in the district where you can drop off your small pre-loved or broken electrical appliances and electronic equipment.

From kettles, toasters, irons, radios, hair straighteners and electric toothbrushes to DIY tools, computer equipment, speakers, games consoles and phones – if it’s got a plug, cable or battery it can be recycled and parts of it used to make new products.

For more information on where you’ll find your nearest collection point and the sort of items you can take along, follow this link

Citizen Journalist Training
Explore the latest edition of THRIVE North Lancashire online! Access the ninth edition featuring local stories, citizen journalism, knowledge sharing, and research highlighting the journey of FoodFutures towards creating a thriving local food system that is healthy, resilient, and fair.

All are invited to participate in a training day dedicated to the pool of journalists contributing to THRIVE. If you’re interested in writing for the magazine or attending the free training day, please reach out to Jim Greenan at [email protected].

Date & time: Saturday, May 13th, from 10 am to 5 pm

Free First Aid Training from British Red Cross
Learn basic first aid with the British Red Cross’s practical first aid training workshop, which is available both online and face-to-face. 

This practical first aid training workshop, available both onlineand face-to-face, helps adults learn basic lifesaving skills using everyday objects. The workshop is not accredited, but is a free and simple way to improve your first aid knowledge and build confidence.

Find out more

Around the World Supper Club
The Global Village Cafe’s supper club at The Cornerstone will feature appetisers from Ukraine, main courses from Kurdistan, and sweets from Syria, along music selected by their chefs as their favourite reminders from home.

£35 per head with £10 deposit on booking, sittings at 6pm at 7:30pm.

Download the flyer to find out more, book by emailing [email protected]

Get Grants Capital Fundraising Masterclass
Capital projects are related to the purchasing of or improvements to Fixed Assets. This regularly includes purchasing, or renovating buildings or permanent infrastructure assets (such as green spaces). It also includes the purchases of vehicles, large equipment or IT equipment.

This online workshop from Get Grants explains some of the practicalities of capital fundraising with the aim of increasing your chances of success.

3 June, 11:30am – 12:30pm, online

Buy your ticket here

Free Tennis and Pickleball Open Day
Try tennis and pickleball in a friendly atmosphere at Lancaster Tennis Club (Lune Road LA1 5QU) between 12 noon and 3pm on 20 April.

Adults, juniors and family groups of all abilities including beginners are all welcome. Racquets and balls will be provided. No need to book – just turn up.

For further information call Michael on 07523 866116, email [email protected] or visit the Lancaster Tennis Club website.

Farming-Related Stress: Talk and Advice Session
Financial and work pressures, isolation…even weather worries. The stresses that face farmers and their families tend to be different from those faced by most people.

This free session provides an opportunity to listen to and speak with Lisa Richardson around the particular stresses faced by farmers and their families. Lisa comes from a farming background and is still involved in the family farm.

In this workshop Lisa will suggest ways to lessen the impact of the stresses and strains of farming life, and talk about the support that is available.

Thursday 18 April, 11am – 12 noon at Cockerham Village Hall, LA2 0EF

Find out more and book

Eden Project Communities Community Camp

Jam-packed with workshops, inspirational talks, networking and fun, Community Camp is for anyone who’d like to take the next steps on their community action journey.

The next Community Camp is taking place at Hulme Community Garden Centre, Manchester on Saturday 20 April and Sunday 21 April. It’ll take place over two full days plus evenings.

40 places are available and applications are now open.

Find out more and apply for a place

Prime Time Short Films at The Dukes
On Tuesday 30th April, Sloths and Cucumbers and Class of ‘65 will be introduced and screened in the Rake cinema and theatre space at the Dukes.

Members of Prime Time’s Young Company whose words were used during the making of the films will be in attendance, and the screenings will be followed by a drinks reception and Q&A in the Gallery space afterwards.

Supported by the National Lottery Community Fund, the Prime Time project provides free, creative opportunities for older members of the local community. Taking part in this series of workshops, has encouraged the participants to embrace the use of technology, demystify the film production process and make it accessible, by using only equipment and software that is readily available.

30 April, 4pm at The Dukes

Find out more and book

LMC Training Opportunity
Lancaster and Morecambe College, through UKSPF, is dedicated to assisting local businesses in their training and development. They are currently providing a diverse selection of fully funded courses and qualifications tailored to meet the needs of local organisations.

Available courses include:

  • Food Safety Level 2 certification
  • Food allergen awareness training
  • Cyber Security workshops
  • Bookkeeping essentials
  • Aspiring Leaders program

All these courses are provided at no cost to individuals residing or working within the Lancaster district. For a comprehensive list of available courses and further details, follow this link.

Campus in the City
Campus in the city a FREE family friendly festival bringing Lancaster University’s research in to the community. An escape room with a difference, a teddy bear hospital, space displays, VR experiences, extracting DNA, futuristic computer games, arts and crafts – just some of the activities that you can take part in if you join in during the Easter school holidays from 10am-4pm on 11 to 13 April.

  • Thursday 11 April – More Music, Morecambe
  • Friday 12 April – The Storey, The Castle and the Gregson Centre, Lancaster
  • Saturday 13 April – The Library and Market Place, Lancaster

View the full programme of events here

Lyrics and Lunch Celebration Event 18th May
The singing and music group charity Lyrics and Lunch will be holding their annual celebration day in May, a day of speakers, discussion, their AGM and a sing-a-long. The community organisation provide a network of friendly singing and lunch groups which creates community for those living with dementia and their carers. You can expect talks by Cat Msith MP, Dianne Smith and the Bay Information Hub along with a theatre performance “William Kite has memory Issues”.

The Celebration Day will be held on Sat 18 May, 10.30am – 3.30pm at The Centre, Marton Street, LA1 1XX.

View the event poster here

The Peer Partnership Training Opportunities
The Peer Partnership offers 4 online workshops in April and May for VCSE, local authority, and health sector workers. Topics include:

These workshops aim to enhance professional skills and effectiveness in working with service users. Group bookings and exclusive sessions for organisations are available.

Visit their website for more information

Think CO! Carbon Monoxide Risk Awareness Workshop
An online workshop called “Think CO” educates frontline workers and volunteers on carbon monoxide (CO) risks in vulnerable people’s homes. It covers CO sources, signs, prevention, and implications for both workers and clients. The workshop, hosted by Gas Safe Charity, is conducted on Zoom and lasts for about an hour. Attendees receive additional resources after the session. Limited places are available, and registration is required via email.

The next available workshops will take place on Tuesday 30 April, Wednesday 22 May and Thursday 27 June.

Reserve your place here

New Funding Webinar: Developing and Nurturing High Value Relationships
The Benefact Group will be hosting a free webinar in April focusing on Developing and nurturing high value relationships to aid fundraisers amidst heightened competition for grants and the cost-of-living crisis. Led by Mark Carrigan, MD of Carrigan Consulting Ltd, the webinar offers practical strategies. They offer free fundraising tools, including an article on high-value philanthropic relationships. The email also promotes the Movement for Good Awards, where 50 charities can win £1,000 each, urging subscribers to nominate their favorites.

The webinar will take place on April 10, 2024, 10.30-11.30am

Learn more and reserve your place

St John’s Hospice Moonlight Walk
This year’s walk takes place on 15 June, heading to Lancaster Castle which will be list up in St John’s Hospice green.

SJH would like to get the whole city lit up green for the night, so why not think about your home or workplace could get involved?

In addition, there are still some sponsorship opportunities available.

Book your tickets for the walk here, or get in touch by email at [email protected] to discuss sponsorship.

Neuro Drop-In’s Greatest Ball
Step right up to Neuro DropIn’s Greatest Showman Charity Ball on April 27th, 2024, at Mazuma Stadium in Morecambe. Experience the magic of the circus with live performances, a carnival atmosphere, and a gourmet feast. Bid on exclusive items in the Auction of Wonders and dress to impress in your most spectacular attire. Proceeds support Neuro DropIn Centre, aiding those affected by Neurological Conditions.

Tickets available now, get yours here!

City of Lancaster Triathlon Day 2024 
COLT are excited to be hosting this event, designed for those new to triathlon, and they look forward to welcoming you on Sunday 14th April.  The day is designed to teach you the mechanics of how a triathlon works, what to expect if you enter a triathlon, and how to prepare for race day. Above all, they aim to show you that completing a triathlon is a fantastic adventure, a great challenge, and one that ANYBODY can achieve. They welcome existing members and non-members to this event. 

To read about what the day involves, times, what kit to bring along and to register, please visit the site  

Date: Sunday 14th April 2024 
Location: Salt Ayre Leisure Centre, Morecambe, LA1 5JS 
Price: Non-members £25, Members £10

Coordinator at Healthwatch Lancashire
The Coordinator will be the first point of contact for people getting in touch with Healthwatch, providing information and signposting support via the telephone and email enquiries, and providing comprehensive administrative support to the team.

Salary: £22,308 per annum
Contract: Full time, permanent
Location: Leyland
Closing date: 22 April 2024

Find out more and apply

 

Several Roles at The Birchall Trust
Senior Counsellor

  • Recognised qualification in counselling or psychotherapy (minimum Diploma level 4 or 5)
  • Minimum of 2 year’s post qualification or 100 hours counselling sessions
  • Experience of managing/leading a team – either in a paid or voluntary capacity

Salary: £22,320 per annum
Contract: Part time
Location: Morecambe, Barrow or Blackburn

Wellbeing Practitioner x 2

  • A recognised sociology, care, or social work qualification, newly qualified counsellor, an ISVA qualification or an NVQ Level 3 in a relevant area of work
  • Demonstrable understanding of issues and nature surrounding rape and sexual abuse and knowledge of the impacts of sexual violence
  • Have experience of working with vulnerable people and providing practical and emotional support.

Salary: £14,490 – £24,900 per annum
Contract: Flexible hours – minimum 22.5, maximum 37.5
Location: Barrow

Training Coordinator

  • Experience in coordinating and delivering training programmes, preferably within a charity setting.
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to deliver engaging training sessions.
  • Ability to work with a diverse range of stakeholders, including survivors of rape and sexual abuse, professionals, and volunteers.

Salary: £19,920 per annum
Contract: 30 hours per week
Location: Morecambe, Barrow or Blackburn

Volunteer Coordinator

  • Relevant health, social care or third sector experience working with vulnerable people with a demonstrable ability to communicate with a wide range of people with lived experience of services.
  • Experience of working with volunteers, including recruiting, and managing volunteers.
  • Ability to motivate, support and encourage volunteers, with experience of supporting volunteers to develop skills and confidence, as well as engaging with an organisation’s mission.

Salary: £21,720 per annum
Contract: 30 hours per week
Location: Morecambe, Barrow or Blackburn

Business Development Support Officer

  • A recognised qualification in Business related field or at least two years related experience of working business / charity development related field.
  • A persistent, positive attitude to problem-solving and proactive approach to tasks.
  • Experience and ability of gathering information from databases, managing, and analysing large quantities of statistical data

Salary: £23,500 per annum
Contract: Full time
Location: Morecambe, Barrow or Blackburn

Find out more and apply for all roles

Outdoor Learning Officer at LESS CIC
This role will plan and deliver the PermaWarriors Club, a three-year programme of permaculture, gardening and nature-based after school clubs and holiday clubs across school communities in Lancaster and Morecambe, inspiring children and their families to develop a connection to their local environment.

Salary: £21,933.60 per annum
Contract: Part-time
Location: Lancaster and schools across the district
Closing date: 3 May, 12 noon
Interviews: 22 May

Find out more and apply

Project Manager at Ishara Press CIC
Ishara Press CIC serves cross-sectoral initiatives working in sustainability and regeneration through game-based publishing. They are looking for a project manager to support the development of a sustainability-related series Regen-D (“regenerative design”) and Transition Games, and to support the work of a newly established Game Studio.

The role includes contribution to external events and internal workflows, maintaining an up-to-date website, and contributing to the strategy of developing an ethical business.

Ishara Press provide supportive mentoring and purposeful personal development, including for candidates without previous experience in the publishing sector.

Salary: £28,500 pro rata
Contract: Part-time, flexible one day per week initially, with potential for longer hours over time
Location: Hybrid, remote with attendance in Lancaster at least once per month
Closing date: 19 April 2024
Interviews: Week beginning 22 April 2024

Find out more and apply

Domestic Abuse Outreach Support Worker x2 Vacancies – Preston Domestic Violence Services
PDVS are seeking x2 Domestic Abuse Outreach Support Workers to provide practical and emotional support to victims and survivors of domestic violence and abuse.

X2 Vacancies

  • Full time (37 hours per week)
  • Part time (16 hours per week)

Salary

  • Hourly rate £14.20
  • Full time post: £27,231 (actual)
  • Part time post: £11,814 (actual) £27,321 (pro rata)

Closing date: 12 April 2024
Interview date: 25 April 2024

Further information and application

Waking Night Recovery Worker
The Richmond Fellowship are lookng for a Waking Night Recovery Worker to be part of their national mental health charity dedicated to supporting individuals in crisis. Based in Morecambe, you’ll provide overnight assistance to service users, ensuring their safety and progress towards recovery. This role involves collaborating with clinical teams, facilitating group programs, and offering personalised support to individuals facing various mental health challenges.

Salary: £22,005 pa + £10 supplement per waking night shift
Contract: Full-time, permanent
Location: Morecambe
Closing Date: 18 April 2024, 11.59pm

Find out more about this role and apply

North West Community Engagement Officer with Parentkind
Parentkind, a dynamic charity, seeks a North West Community Engagement Officer to engage and support Parent Teacher Associations (PTAs), schools, parent groups, and stakeholders. The role involves growing PTA networks, supporting PTAs through leadership transitions, organising events, and promoting Parentkind’s support programs and more.

Salary: £20,462 (£28,000 FTE equivalent)
Contract: Full-time or part-time / Permanent (37 hours per week, term time only (38 weeks per annum))
Location: Liverpool, Preston, Lancashire
Closing Date: 12 April 2024, 11.59pm

Find out more about this role and apply

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

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]