Information and Advice for the Lancaster District’s Third Sector – 6 December 2024

Thank You for an Incredible FestiVOL 2024! 
A huge thank you to everyone who joined us for FestiVOL 2024 last month —it was an amazing day of connection and inspiration! From our thought-provoking speakers to the engaging workshops, and the stunning performance by the Lancaster & District Male Voice Choir, the event truly showcased the spirit of the voluntary sector.  

Your energy and enthusiasm made it a memorable celebration of our collective achievements over the last 12 months. Here’s to continuing our vital work and building on the wonderful connections made during the day. Thank you for being part of it! 

Take a look at some of the FestiVOL photos on Facebook!

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Eden Project Update – Thank You!
A huge thank you to everyone who attended our Eden Project Morecambe update event recently at the The Rainbow Centre in Morecambe!

Hosted by Lancaster District CVS, this gathering provided a unique opportunity for our sector to hear directly from Si Bellamy, Chief Transformation Officer, and Tracy Robbins, UK Delivery Manager for Eden Project Communities.

Si and Tracy offered valuable insights into the Eden Project Morecambe’s green-lit plans and shared their vision for a project that deeply involves and benefits our communities. The engaging Q&A session was particularly inspiring, with so many ideas, concerns, and ambitions shared by local organisations. It was truly energising to witness the depth of community interest and commitment.

We appreciate everyone’s input, questions, and enthusiasm—and look forward to continuing these conversations and partnerships with the Eden team and Lancaster City Council in the near future!

Thank you all for making it such a memorable event!

See some photos from the event on our Facebook page

Police & Crime Plan
Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Clive Grunshaw, has launched a new Police and Crime Plan for 2024-2029. The plan sets out the Commissioner’s vision for policing across Lancashire in preventing and investigating crime. It is based on extensive feedback from Lancashire residents, alongside local and national research and publications.

Read more here

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Council Housing Allocation Policy: Consultation Event 
The Council Housing service is reviewing their 2020 Allocation Policy. 

They are required to provide a policy on how they allocate residential accommodation from their own stock and from Private Registered Providers of Social Housing, whom they work in partnership with. Having considered current government legislation and carried out an initial consultation with partners and stakeholders, they have drafted an updated Allocation Policy. 

They would now like to give all tenants, housing applicants and stakeholders the opportunity to review this policy and give them their thoughts and input. They will be emailing you an electronic version of this consultation, which they would encourage you to complete. They are also hosting this in-person event, which will give you the opportunity to discuss the proposed policy with officers and share your ideas with them. 

Refreshments will be available. 

This consultation will be held on the 9^th of December and there will be three time slots to pick between, each lasting for 1 hour. Please select your preferred slot here. 

Location: Morecambe Town Hall, Morecambe, Lancashire, LA4 5AF

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Milestone Achievement: Over £100,000 Awarded by 3R Foundation
The 3R Foundation in Carnforth has surpassed a major milestone, awarding over £100,592 in grants to local charities, clubs, and community groups across Morecambe, Lancaster, North Lancs, and South Lakes in under two years! Since opening its charity shop in February 2023, the foundation’s ethos of ReCycle, ReHome, and ReUse has resonated with donors and shoppers alike, with all profits reinvested into the local community.

Operated by dedicated volunteers and staff, the 3R Foundation continues to fund vital projects. Explore the grants awarded so far. To apply for funding, visit their grant application form.

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What the Budget Means for Neighbourhoods
In the Autumn Budget, chancellor Rachel Reeves moved the dial on issues including crime prevention and healthcare. Local Trust’s senior policy and parliamentary officer, Roshni Mistry, reports on how the government’s specific fiscal plans will affect neighbourhoods, and where they can go further to support the country’s most deprived areas.

Read the report

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NCVO Report – Can we Bank on the Banks?
Banking is essential for charities and voluntary organisations. A new report from the National Council for Voluntary Organisations has uncovered how many are struggling to access suitable services, highlights the ongoing barriers, and explains how NCVO is working to change this. The report also includes links to their financial management resources which includes specific guidance on banking.

Read the new report here

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Congratulations to Jenny Armer – Superhero of the Year! 
We are delighted to congratulate Jenny Armer, a true community champion for the Ryelands community, on her well-deserved Superhero Award win last week at the LOVE Lancaster Business Awards. Jenny’s tireless dedication and selfless commitment to supporting residents through the Ryelands Residents Group is truly inspiring. Well done, Jenny—keep up the incredible work! 

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£100 Million Dormant Assets Funding for Youth Services 
The Culture Secretary has announced £100 million from dormant assets funding to support youth services from 2024 to 2028, as part of a £350 million initiative. This investment will fund facilities, opportunities, and a new National Youth Strategy, co-produced with young people to shape better local and national support. Highlights include £26 million for youth club renovations via the Better Youth Spaces programme. Also, the National Citizen Service (NCS) will wind down by March 2025, with the government focusing on a refreshed approach to youth engagement and opportunities. 

Learn more about this development 

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Citizens Advice and Green Rose at The Link  
Visit Green Rose (mornings) and Citizens Advice (afternoons) at The Link on West Street, Morecambe, every Wednesday. Their friendly advisers are here to chat and support you. Free Wi-Fi available.  

You’ll find them at 11 – 13 The Veranda, West St, LA3 1BU 
See the Citizens Advice Drop-in poster here 

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Energy Matters: Stay Warm and Well 
Citizens Advice North Lancashire, in partnership with Green Rose, offers free energy advice to Lancaster and Morecambe residents. Services include help with understanding bills, communicating with energy suppliers, managing energy debts, and applying for retrofit grants. Support extends to practical energy efficiency tips, installing energy-saving devices, and income maximization. Home visits are available for vulnerable clients. Contact 01524 400404 or email [email protected] to arrange an appointment. Funded by the Energy Industry Voluntary Redress Scheme. 

See the Energy Matters poster here 

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Eggcup Crowdfunder
Eggcup, a much-loved and vital food project in Lancaster is currently facing severe financial challenges and uncertainty around the future of its warehouse and food hub. Without significant funding by Christmas, Eggcup may be forced to close by the end of the year.

To help prevent this, Eggcup has launched a crowdfunder and is seeking community support. Please consider sharing the campaign within your networks and on social media using the link Go Fund Me page.

Further updates will be shared as they become available.

Stress Management & Resilience
Would you like to cope better with the stresses of life?
To feel like you had more control over your mental health?

By the end of this free session you will understand how to:

• use a variety of coping strategies
• prioritise what you need quickly and effectively to stop matters escalating
• self-advocate confidently
• recognise triggers for mental health issues increasing
• support family members and peers (self-sufficiency)

9 January 2025, 12:30pm – 3:30pm at The Link, 11-13 West Street, Morecambe LA3 1RB

Find out more and book

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Benefits Training: Personal Independence Payments 
An opportunity has arisen to join trained advisers as they talk you through the basics of Personal Independence Payments (PIP) and how you can help eligible people in your community to apply for PIP and other benefits. 

Emily, Sammy, Charlotte and Phil will guide you through the process and answer any questions. 

Networking lunch will be provided. 

Time and Date: Friday 17 January 2025, 10:00 AM – 1:00pm 

Location: Morecambe Town Hall, Marine Road, Morecambe, LA4 5AF 

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Charity Commission Workshops: Supporting Charities Operating Internationally
The Charity Commission is hosting free in-person workshops for charities operating internationally from January to March 2025. These interactive events, titled WORLD: Working Overseas – Risks, Responsibilities, and Legal Duties, will cover essential topics such as trustee responsibilities, international risk management, safeguarding, and handling charitable funds safely.

Dates and Locations:

• London: Tuesday, 21 January 2025, 9:30 AM–3:30 PM, Broadway House
• Birmingham: Tuesday, 11 February 2025, 9:30 AM–3:30 PM, Millennium Point

Spaces are limited to two attendees per charity. These workshops offer networking opportunities, practical exercises, and expert guidance tailored to charities working abroad. Refreshments and lunch are provided.

For more details or to book, contact the Charities Engagement Team at [email protected].

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Disability Inclusion
This interactive session will cover all the main issues to bear in mind for making your organisation an inclusive place, including language, visual impairment, hearing impairment, wheelchair users, learning disabilities and etiquette.

Session leader Ollie Flitcroft is a wheelchair user and has been disabled all his life.  He has worked in the third sector for over 25 years, supporting organisations and groups including fundraising to help them to develop. 

£5 LDCVS members, £10 non-members.

21 January 2025, 10am – 12 noon, Christ Church Lancaster

Book your ticket

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Top Tips for Writing a Funding Application
This online session is designed for people who have little or no experience of writing funding applications and would benefit from some basic pointers that would help them to write successful applications for small funding pots e.g. £500 to £5000 grants.

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

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

£5 for LDCVS Members, £10 for non-members.

28 January 2025, 10am – 11:30am, online

Book your ticket

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

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

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

£15 for LDCVS members, £25 for non-members.

19 February 2025, 9.30am – 3:30pm, Alexandra Barracks, Lancaster

Book your ticket

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FREE LGBTQ+ Awareness Training  
Lancashire LGBT is running two more LGBTQ+ awareness training sessions for people working in North Lancashire and South Cumbria. Lancashire LGBTQ+ will be running a session on Thursday 6th February at 10am-3.15pm in J365 Conference Centre, Crooklands LA7 7NU and an online session on Tuesday 11th March. There is no charge to attend this training.  

Find out more here 

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Allergen Awareness
Lancaster City Council in conjunction with Lancaster and Morecambe College are offering a fully funded (free) Level 2 Food Safety and Level 2 Allergen Awareness for people who live or work in our district.

A minimum requirement of Level 2 Training is essential for all food handlers who prepare or handle high risk food.

To book a place on the course contact LMC e-mail: [email protected]  or phone: 01524 521483.

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The Peer Partnership Training Opportunities
The Peer Partnership is offering a series of online workshops in November 2024 and February 2025 for VCSE, local authority, and health sector workers. Topics include peer support design, group dynamics, workplace boundaries, and responding to challenging behaviour. Each workshop costs £50 and can be booked via Eventbrite. Custom sessions for organisations are also available.

How to Design Peer Support
Tuesday 4th February 2025 09:30-13:30

Group Dynamics and Facilitation
Tuesday 18th February 2025 09:30-13:30

Boundaries in the VCSE Workplace
Thursday 20th February 2025 12:30-16:30

Recognising and Responding to Challenging Behaviour
Tuesday 25th February 2025 09:30-13:30

For more details, visit The Peer Partnership website or contact them directly at [email protected] or call on 0117 955 5038.

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Make Every Contact Count Train the Trainer – one day course
The MECC (Making Every Contact Count) Train the Trainer 1-day course equips staff from a range of sectors with the skills to engage in brief, effective conversations that promote healthy lifestyle choices. Targeted at those working in health, care, or the voluntary sector, this face-to-face course focuses on behaviour change around smoking, alcohol, diet, and more. Sessions are offered in Lancashire and South Cumbria from October to December 2024. Participants are expected to deliver six MECC sessions annually.

If you wish to register for one of these course dates, please fill out the application form in order to register and send to: [email protected]

If you do not have the availability to attend a full-day MECC TTT course/ wish to find out more info re what MECC is, you can attend one of their 90 min MECC Familiarisation sessions that are delivered on-line via teams.

 MECC 90 min Familiarisation Sessions – via Teams 

• Tuesday 10th December 09.00 – 10.30am
• Tuesday 10th December 11.00 – 12.30pm
• Tuesday 10th December 13.30 – 15.00pm

If you wish to register for one of these session dates, please click on this Active Lancashire Learning Zone link to complete an application form

See the course flyer here

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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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St John’s Hospice Volunteers Wanted!
St John’s Hospice are looking for 2 people to offer their time for a 2 hour bucket collection slot between 10am and 3pm on the Saturdays of the 14^th and the 21^st of December. This will be at Santa’s grotto outside Primark in the Marketgate Arcade, Lancaster. 

Volunteers can be seated. There is a very friendly atmosphere, and volunteers always find it a lot of fun! 

If you think you would enjoy helping out, then please contact Fundraising at St John’s Hospice on 01524 328538 

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Volunteer at the Midwinter Market! 
Lancaster’s Midwinter Market on 13 December will be a busy, friendly space with live music, street food and stalls presenting the best local, sustainable products and crafts. 

Could you help with collecting and returning equipment, or setting up and decorating gazebos? Or would you like to set up the PA and look after musicians, talk to members of the public or distribute publicity? The day runs from set-up at 8.30am to take-down after 5pm and any amount of time you can give will be welcome. 

Please get in touch at [email protected] 

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Trustees at Stanleys Community Centre
Stanleys Community Centre are looking for new trustees to join their team of five, working alongside nine staff and 36 volunteers. The Centre’s vision is that all residents living in Morecambe enjoy a high quality of life, can achieve their economic, social and educational goals, and feel part of a strong, prosperous and caring local community.

Trustees with experience in financial management and account, or in charity governance, strategy and legal would be particularly welcomed.

The board meets monthly for up to two hours online, with support given to the centre manager between meetings for a time commitment of approximately four hours per month.

Download the information pack to find out more

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Santa at Galloways Morecambe Christmas Grotto
Galloways’ annual Santa’s Grotto and Gift Wrap at Brew Me Sunshine on Victoria Street, Morecambe will be back Monday on the 9th and 16th from 11am to 3pm.

Santas are needed for 2 to 4 hour shifts each day to be warm and friendly, offering gifts and listening to children and families Christmas Wishes. Staff will be on hand to support and a full induction and costume will be given to each volunteer.

Find out more and register

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Christmas Volunteering
Will you need more volunteers over the Christmas period? Christmas Day? Boxing Day? We are already receiving queries from the public about what they can do over Christmas to help.

So whether you’re feeding people, throwing a party, or getting on with your usual activities, if you think that you will need more support over the Christmas period please let us know. We might be able to put you in touch with some enthusiastic volunteers right away! Contact [email protected].

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Volunteer Receptionist at Positive Futures
Positive Futures is a mental health charity that supports the people of Lancaster, Morecambe and District. The charity has a social hub with a community café offering fun and personal development training.

They are looking for a friendly, outgoing person to volunteer at their reception desk. Duties will include booking cars into the parking system, meeting and greeting people coming into the building, and taking payments for groups and courses.

Find out more about this role

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Flood & Coastal Committee Independent Members
The Environment Agency is looking for new members for our region’s Flood & Coastal Committee. Members help protect people, their homes and livelihoods from flooding, learn new skills and gain experience, and make a real difference to their community.

Committees represent local communities in how flooding and erosion are managed, approve programmes of works, and create local partnerships.

Find out more and apply

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Volunteer Sessions at The Plot
Join Vaso and the friendly community of volunteers. 

Vasiliki Makri, the new volunteer and community engagement coordinator at The Plot, invites you to weekly volunteer sessions at The Plot’s outdoor site at Old Holly Farm. Read Vaso’s column here and see why it would be a great idea to consider joining this sociable and mood boosting community. 

The sessions also feature farming activities and breaks with hot drinks and cake. 

Time and Date: Every Wednesday from 9am-1pm 
Location: Old Holly Farm, Cabus Nook Lane, Preston, PR3 1AA 

For more information contact: [email protected]  

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Moving Forward Volunteer with Breast Cancer Now
Breast Cancer Now understand that a person’s need for support doesn’t end when treatment finishes. Their Moving Forward services and information are for anyone living with and beyond breast cancer, helping them approach life after treatment with increased confidence.

 

Volunteers on each Moving Forward course are there to welcome participants and support the facilitator. Volunteers move around small groups to support discussions, contribute their own insights when appropriate, and offer emotional support if participants become upset.

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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.

Visit the guide here

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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.

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

Lancaster Youth Challenge Restore & Time To Breathe Programmes
Restore
This ten week programme of non-contact boxing and wellbeing for young people 13 – 17 years will build confidence and fitness levels and nurture a sense of personal achievement.

Tuesdays from 21 January, 4.30pm – 6pm at Vale of Lune RUFC

For more information or to refer a young person, contact [email protected]

Time to Breathe
This ten-week programme provides an alternative and safe space to understand emotional well-being, express thoughts and feelings, develop personal confidence and transferrable skills through nature-based education and educational wellbeing activities.

Sessions begin on 18 January and are delivered at Gathering Fields and The Cornerstone.

For more information or to refer a young person, contact [email protected]

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Positive Relationships – Stronger Families
Lancashire County Council and The Family Hubs Network are running a 4 week course that aims to empower parents to understand their conflicts and see how to resolve issues with constructive and destructive communication.

2024 session schedule

• A taste of Positive Relationship at CHATS, More Music 19 December – 10.30am – 11.30am

2025 session schedule (all sessions run for 4 weeks)

• Poulton Family Hub – 7 January, 9.30-11am
• Carnforth Family Hub – 10 January, 9.30-11am
• Lune Park Family Hub – 14 February, 9.30-11am
• Heysham Health Centre – 18 February, 9.30-11am

For more information and to book

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Barnardo’s Supported Lodgings
The Supported Lodgings services offers a unique opportunity to provide a safe and supportive environment for young people aged 16-25 as they transition into adulthood. Supported Lodgings hosts offer a safe and stable home, provide guidance and emotional support, help the development of independent living skills, and have access to a dedicated support worker to address any challenges.

Hosts are provided with a 24/7 helpline and weekly financial support.

Supported Lodgings are expanding across Lancashire so if you have a spare room, want to support young people, and are a patient good listener, please contact Saira Hussain at [email protected]

Download the leaflet to find out more

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Join the new Morecambe Bay Curriculum Working Groups
Would you like:

• funding for your place-based green project ideas?
• top notch CPD delivered by Lancaster University, Eden Project, Lancaster and Morecambe College, University of Cumbria and Health Professionals?
• to collaborate with like-minded colleagues who feel passionately about the power of teaching and learning?
• to weave sustainability, place and the environment into your day-to-day practice?
• a say in shaping the Morecambe Bay Curriculum and Eden Project Morecambe?

If so, consider joining one of the MBC working groups, focusing on one of primary, secondary, special educational needs and disabilities, or alternative provision.

The MBC team will be on hand to support each group as you meet regularly to explore your collective interests and develop projects, curriculum resources or campaigns that you think will make a difference in your setting.

Working Groups start in February 2025 and culminate in July 2026. Groups will meet approximately every one or two months for around 60 – 90 minutes, followed by termly inter-phase twilight CPD.

Find out more and apply

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Inside Out – Support for Children (8-11 Years) 
The Children and Family Wellbeing Service offers free weekly sessions for children aged 8-11 (Key Stage 2) who may be struggling with emotions, anxious behaviors, or low confidence. Kids can explore feelings, manage worries, build confidence, and enjoy creative, physical, and fun activities with peers. 

• Carnforth Neighbourhood Centre – Mondays, 3:30-4:30 PM
• Morecambe Library, Central Drive – Tuesdays, 3:30-4:45 PM

No booking needed – just turn up! For more info, call 01524 581280. 

See the C&FWS poster here 

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Lancaster and Morecambe Family Zone Services 
Offering a wide range of support for families, the Family Zone hosts community midwives, health visitor clinics, Citizens Advice, and smoking cessation services, alongside engaging groups for children and parents.  

Sessions include: 

• Baby & You sessions (0-pre walkers) 

• Development Matters for early child development 

• Infant Massage and Triple P Parenting Courses 

• Inside Out emotional support group (ages 8-11) 

• Sensory Room (free to book) 

Sessions run across various centres in Lancaster and Morecambe. For bookings or info, call 01524 581280. 

See their events poster here

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C.H.A.T.S Stronger Relationships – Strengthening Families 
Come along to a session all about making relationships healthier and happier. It will answer some common questions relating to the struggles we face such as parental conflict and relationships, how to communicate better when under stress and the stages of relationship development, amongst other topics. 

Time and Date: Thursday the 19^th of December, 10am-1pm 
Location: More Music, Devonshire Road, Morecambe, LA3 1QT 

There are limited spaces so please book your place by contacting: [email protected]  Calling Rebecca: 07852297215 or Steph: 07494206371 

C.H.A.T.S are also offering:

December: 

• Face to Face Meeting, Thursday 12^th , 10am-12pm 

Social Cafe, Face to Face Meetings and Workshops are hosted at More Music, Devonshire Road, Morecambe, LA3 1QT 

Get in touch to find out more at [email protected] 

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Sported – Opportunity for Young People’s Sports Groups
Sported offers free membership to organisations that use sports to improve the lives of young people aged 11–25. Eligible groups must deliver regular sports or physical activities with a focus on development, rather than competition, and be a non-profit organisation. Access resources and support on the Sported Hub can be found here, or contact Sported to learn more. You can view their sported e-flyer here.

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Free Children’s Writing Workshop with Hiba Noor Khan
Are you over 18, from an underrepresented group, and interested in writing for children? Join award-winning children’s author Hiba Noor Khan at Lancaster Library for a free writing workshop on Saturday, 7th December, from 11 am to 1 pm. Spaces are limited, so book your spot at the Library desk today!

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Healthy Young Minds Focus Group 
Lancashire Mind are looking for feedback on their Healthy Young Minds website. They would like to gain suggestions on what young people, parents and professionals like and dislike about the site and are open to any ideas for improvement. 

The site focuses on the mental health and emotional wellbeing of young people and can be accessed here.  

Download the Information & Consent form

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Wise Up Workshops – latest provision
Wise Up Workshops are running fortnightly sessions to help build new skills from cooking to map reading, event planning to mental health support.

Upcoming sessions:

• Youth Theatre/ Tuesdays/ The Platform/ Ages 5-16 years/ Production & performance skills
• Lifewise/ Wednesdays/ Heysham Library/ Ages 14-25 years/ Learning life skills & includes a residential
• Creative Saturdays/ Sefton Rd Church Hall/ Ages 4+/ Drama, art, crafts, eco junk modelling, movement, gardening, cooking

Wise Up are only part funded for all of these workshops and ask for a donation from attendees if/where possible.  

For further information view their event poster or visit  www.wiseupworkshops.com

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Coach Core Foundation
Coach Core Foundation is a UK charity that uses sport and apprenticeships to support young adults facing barriers to employment. Partnering with local employers, they create positive change in communities by training young role models to deliver sports and physical activities.

Their Lancashire programme, in collaboration with the Westminster Foundation, offers a Level 2 Community Activator Coach Apprenticeship, benefiting 100 young people over five years. The programme includes professional development, regular support, and grants for employers, focusing on empowering young people and enriching community engagement through sports.

More information about the Community Activator Coach Level 2 Apprenticeship and

Read all about Coach Core and the benefits of their apprenticeship

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Youth Futures Team
The Youth Futures Team offers support for young people leaving school, providing guidance on various pathways such as college, apprenticeships, employment, and training. They assist with A-levels, vocational courses, entry-level programs, and work-based training options. The team can help with CV preparation, interview skills, building confidence, and employability skills. For more personalised advice, you can contact the North representative Anna at [email protected] or call 07354 167290.

See their information flyer part 1 and part 2

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M.A.T.C.H Men And Their Children NEW Event
Calling all dads, grandads, uncles, and male carers! Join the Family Hubs Network at the Morecambe Central Hub (Morecambe Library) every 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month starting in October, from 10am-12pm. Enjoy a warm brew and hot breakfast in a friendly setting, with activities provided for the kids. No booking is required—just turn up and take part. Best of all, it’s FREE!

Find out more here

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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

FarmStart 2025 applications open now
LESS and The Plot invites individuals to apply for the 2025 FarmStart Training programme—a one-year, part-time training opportunity designed for North Lancashire residents that are passionate about improving our local food systems. 

This programme prepares you to start a food-growing business as a new grower. It offers access to land, a supportive community, and access to local markets while providing training on small-scale, climate-resilient food-growing methods. This initiative plays an important role in building a more resilient and sustainable food system for North Lancashire. For more information and to apply: 

Read the FarmStart 2025 column 

Read the full information document here 

Apply here by the 21^st of January 2025 

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Winter Recipe Challenge
Do you have a favourite winter recipe? Join the winter recipe challenge! 

The  FoodFutures Closing Loops project would like you to take part in the North Lancashire winter recipe challenge. Recipes should either use ingredients that are local and seasonal to North Lancashire or have something to do with local history. Recipes could also reflect the great diversity of food cultures that we have in our region. 

View all details and send in your recipe 

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Lancaster Seed Library Practical Work Session 
Join Lancaster Seed Library members for the afternoon to help clean, sort and pack seeds ready for January’s seed swaps. This is a great chance to practically have a go at seed saving from a range of different plants, whilst asking questions and learning more about seed saving as you go. 

This session will be held at a secret location in Lancaster. To join email [email protected] for the venue’s address. 

Time and Date: 7^th of December 2024, 12pm-3:30pm 

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Lancaster’s Midwinter Market 
Visit the beautifully lit Market Square and enjoy the wide range of hot food, cakes and drinks on offer from a local street food market. Grab something to eat and drink from the stalls or surrounding shops, sit in our outdoor dining space and enjoy live music from local musicians throughout the night. 

 At the heart of the festival, this market celebrates the best on offer locally. The focus is on supporting small, independent street traders. Many of these traders use locally produced food and are passionate about having a positive impact on the local community and the environment. 

Time and Date: 13^th of December,  5-10pm 

Location: Lancaster Market Square  

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Forming a Lancashire Food Alliance
A LancsCAN grant is supporting workshops which will explore the concept of a Lancashire Food Alliance, bringing together Sustainable Food Places Partnerships, LancsCAN members, and other food partnerships and networks from across Lancashire to explore ways to meaningfully support each other and work together to shift our local food system at a county level.

Each workshop will build on the previous ones, however you do not have attend all three.

Workshop 1 – Creating a shared understanding and mapping of food system work in Lancashire
Weds 4th December 2024 in Preston (9:30-12:30 followed by lunch)

This workshop will seek to create a shared understanding of Lancashire’s food partnerships, networks and organisations. This includes an understanding of the contexts we work in, our successes, challenges and priority areas.

Booking link: www.trybooking.com/uk/EARD

Workshop 2 – Identifying commonalities and points for collaboration.
Weds 22nd January 2025 online (10-12:30)

Building on workshop 1, this session will look to pull out common themes, leverage points and areas for collaboration across Lancashire’s food system. Collectively delegates will explore what Lancashire-wide food system shifts could be achieved together as a network of networks and partnerships.

Booking link: www.trybooking.com/uk/EASY

Workshop 3 – Creating a shared vision and an action plan
Weds 12th March 2025 – in person. Venue TBC (9:30-12:30 followed by lunch)

This session will focus on the leverage points identified in workshop 2 to understand what success looks like and how we will get there. As part of this, next steps will be agreed for how this Lancashire-wide group should continue to meet and communicate and take forward actions.

Booking link: www.trybooking.com/uk/EARW

For further information please contact Ellie Shackleton at [email protected]

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Tech Lancaster – Electronics and Green Skills Training
Tech Lancaster offers electronics training tailored for adults seeking career shifts into the tech industry and runs STEM workshops for children, plus work experience for college students. Currently, in collaboration with Lancaster City Council, they’re providing a Green Skills Short Course—a taster for those considering careers in green technology.

For more information, visit Tech Lancaster and Green Skills.

View their e-flyer here

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FoodFutures Events

Events for allotment-holders & other growers 
Following the launch of the Allotment Review Report in June 2024, a number of events have been organised that take forward some of the report’s recommendations. These include: 

Lancaster Seed Library practical work session 
7 December 12:00-15:30. Bring food to share for lunch. Venue: TBC   

Food Champion banner, badge, and bunting making 
FoodFutures are delighted to be collaborating with Sewing Cafe Lancaster to run a series of workshops. 

Come and learn how to create stunning badges from scrap fabric, and learn how to create banners and bunting using applique and other sewing techniques. The first two workshops will focus on learning skills and choosing what you want to make. The final workshop will be a co-creation exercise involving putting the finished pieces together to create a FoodFutures banner that can be used at events and markets.  

These workshops are suitable for all skill levels. They will hopefully inspire you to create other works of art whether it’s up-cycling your clothes or making your party bunting. 

Find out more and book a place 

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Marsh Community Gardening Project
Would you be interested in improving and looking after green spaces in the Marsh area? Get involved by contacting Katie from the Marsh Community Centre on 07868314807.

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Land Wanted for Allotments
Do you know of or have a piece of land (big or small) that could potentially become allotments?         

Would you be interested in hearing or learning about how this can be done, what is involved, and how running allotments has worked for other private landlords? 

If the answer is “yes” then please get in touch with Deborah at [email protected]   

LESS (a Lancaster based social enterprise) is keen to understand the level of interest around opening new allotment sites across Lancaster District and is willing to offer some support and information sharing about how this can be done.

For more information about this call to action, read this food column and contact Deborah with any questions.

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Perceptions of Renewable Energy Survey
A Lancaster University undergraduate is conducting a survey on residents’ perceptions of renewable energy and technology. The survey takes just 5-7 minutes to complete and helps inform future renewable energy projects. Your participation is voluntary and anonymous, and you can withdraw at any time. Help shape Lancaster’s renewable energy future by sharing your views!

Go to the survey here

Christmas Elf Run
The Morecambe Community Runners group have organised an Elf Run for a bit of festive family fun, exercise and goodies. It’s free to enter and everyone is welcome to either run, walk or jingle all the way.

Date & time: Tuesday 17 December 2024, 6.30pm
Location start: The Battery, Morecambe Promenade

See their poster for more

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Victorian Christmas at Judges’ Lodgings
Enjoy traditional music, beautiful decorations, kids cornucopia craft and a visit to Santa at the Judges’ Lodgings this weekend, 7 & 8 December, 11am – 4pm.

Plus you can enjoy a festive treat at the Friends’ pop-up Tea Room (12-3.30pm)

Event and visit to Santa included in admission: £5 adults and under 18s free

Find out more

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Love Lancaster, Love Christmas Events
Santa’s Grotto Bus – December 8, 15 & 22
Come and visit Santa on his very own Grotto Bus on Market Street next to the City Museum.

£2 per child to board the bus and receive a small gift from Santa. All money collected will be donated to the Lancaster BID Christmas Toy Appeal charities.

Winter Wonderland – December 8, 11am – 4pm
Magical snow globes, winter sprites and a snow lion will be present in Lancaster city centre alongside a Samba band and stilt walkers.

Music in the City – December 15
A wide range of singers, bands and other acts bring seasonal sounds to Lancaster in partnership with Lancaster Music Festival.

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Friends of Lancaster Library Cafe
Pop into the library for a mug of festive hot chocolate and a mince pie. Funds raised by the cafe will go to Lancaster District Street Aid.

After your refreshments you can join in with FREE festive bauble making.

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Lancaster Priory Concerts and Carols
Join the Priory’s community of choirs and church musicians for a festive family concert of popular carols by candlelight at 5pm or 7:30pm on December 14. Tickets £10 in advance – book here.

Later in the month, celebrate the spirit of Christmas and raise money for the Priory’s choir at a sing-a-long beer and carols event (non-alcoholic alternatives available). Doors open 6:30pm on December 20. Advance tickets from £8 for adults, £4 concessions – book here.

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FAR – The Clubhouse Christmas Party
The Friends & Relationships Clubhouse Christmas Party is taking place on 10 December, 7pm at the Vale of Lune Rugby Club. The event includes a buffet, raffle and disco. Tickets £10 per person (FAR members free of charge).

Event poster

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West End Winter Lantern Procession 
Join an uplifting community celebration of light and music 

The procession will wind its way around the streets of the West End led by Baybeat Streetband, starting and ending with light and music performances at More Music. Make sure you wrap up warm and wear appropriate clothing for all weathers! 

Hot drinks will be available! 

Time and Date: Saturday 7th of December 5-7:30pm 

Location for Start of Procession: Parliament Street (by More Music), 13-17 Devonshire Road, Morecambe, LA3 1QT 

For more info, please visit www.moremusic.org.uk 

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Events at Yealand this Winter 

Christmas Coffee Stops  
Enjoy some carols and mince pies at Yealand Primary School at this festive and social get together on Monday the 2nd of December, 10:30-11:30am  

Come along to “A Dance Spectacular” presented by Yealand Primary School on Monday the 16th of December, 10:30-11:30am.  

Light Up Yealand  
A fun family evening, held at the Village Green, Saturday the 17th of December from 6:30pm.  Enjoy some mince pies, mulled wine and there are refreshments for kids too! There will be carol singing, a collection for charity and the wonderful Milnthorpe Tractor Trundle through the village.   

The 2024 Village Hall Charity Christmas Quiz  
A light supper is included in this fun quiz at the Yealand Village Hall, held on Friday the 13th of December. Bring your own drinks, glasses and expertise!  

Pay at the door by card. £6 per person. Doors open at 7pm for a 7:30pm start.  

New Years Get Together 
Enjoy a social start to the New Year’s morning 2025! Pay £5 by card for a bacon or sausage bap (veggie alternatives available) and tea/coffee. Served 11am-12pm.  

Burns Night Ceilidh 
A celebration of Burns Night featuring the band “Tattie Bogle” and servings of haggis, neeps and tattie. Join in on Saturday 25 January!

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Crafts at Galloways
Fancy a crafty afternoon? 

Join the group at Galloways, behind the Brew Me Sunshine Cafe in Morecambe. You can bring along your own craft project, join in with new craft ideas or just come for a chat and a brew in a warm, friendly space.  Alternatively, if you would like to run your own craft session, then please let them know! 

Time and Date: Every Monday, 1pm-3pm 
Location: Brew Me Sunshine Cafe, 12 Victoria Street, Morecambe, LA4 4AE

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Arts & crafts stalls wanted for Midwinter Market 
Makers, crafters and artists: FoodFutures are looking for more stalls selling hand-made crafts, art and gifts for the Midwinter Market on Friday 13 December. 

Shared stalls are only £10 and they would love to have more people to complement the stalls already booked in for this December. 

Contact Andi on [email protected] or 07891 908025. 

Find out more about Lancaster’s Seasonal Markets 

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4k Festive Fun Run 
Want to keep running over Christmas and New Year?  Then do think about taking part in the friendly 4k Festive Fun Run from the Lancaster& Morecambe AC clubhouse at Salt Ayre Leisure Centre on Friday December 27th at 11am. 

Really great for families and fun runners as well as more regular competitors.   Brilliant atmosphere, super festive medal and lots of wonderful spot prizes.  Only £7 to enter in advance or £10 on the day.   

Enter early as last year all their numbers were taken!

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Music with the Mayor gigs
The new Mayor of Lancaster, Cllr Abi Mills, has launched “Music with the Mayor,” a series of live music events celebrating local talent while raising funds for Citizens Advice North Lancashire. The initiative will feature various performances, including bands, choirs, and school groups, with upcoming events like a Christmas disco and a Burn’s night ceilidh. The project supports the charity’s work during the cost-of-living crisis and aims to engage the community through a diverse musical line-up across Lancaster and Morecambe.

See the event line up below:

Christmas Disco
13th December – £5

View the event flyer here
Find out more and book

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The Cuisine Zines: Food-Inspired Zine Project
The Morecambe Community Riso Press has been awarded a Pots of Possibility grant to deliver a food-inspired zine-making project. The aim is to create a library of DIY zines focusing on food stories, recipes, and local food networks.

Five free workshops will take place at various locations from September 2023 to January 2024, where participants can explore zine-making, share food experiences, and contribute to the final Cuisine Zine. The project aligns with the Food Futures Good Food Manifesto, promoting sustainable and fair food practices across North Lancashire.

The workshops are free but booking is essential.

Dates, times & location:

• The Carnforth Hub, 7th Dec – Book here
• Good Things Studios 18th Jan – Book here

More information here

Emotional Health and Wellbeing Practitioner – The Children’s Charity
The Children’s Society is seeking an Emotional Health and Wellbeing Practitioner to support children and young people affected by domestic violence. The role involves delivering therapeutic interventions, enhancing emotional resilience, and fostering mental health awareness. Applicants should have relevant qualifications or significant experience, a full driver’s license, and expertise in working with young people facing emotional challenges.

Salary: £29,855.00 per annum
Contract: Temporary/ Maternity cover/37 hours per week
Location: Halton
Closing date: 2 January 2025, 11.59pm

Find out more and apply

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Senior Support Worker (Part-time) with RAIS
RAIS Lancaster seeks a passionate Senior Support Worker to provide support for refugees and asylum seekers. This role involves coordinating drop-ins, offering direct support to clients accessing housing, healthcare, and benefits, and managing administrative tasks. RAIS welcomes candidates with relevant experience and encourages applications from those with lived experience of the asylum system.

Salary: £27,000 pro rata (based on 37 hour FTE)
Contract: Part-time (16 hours per week / one year fixed-term contract with potential extension dependent on funding)
Location: Lancaster
Closing date: 13 December 2024, 5pm

Find out more about this role and apply

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Freelance Distribution Support at Lancaster Arts
Freelancers are required to distribute marketing materials for the Lancaster Arts 2025 spring programme to agreed locations in our region, to host market stalls alongside Lancaster Arts staff, and to talk to the public about the work f Lancaster arts.

£600 will be paid for five days of work over six months, split into a few hours at a time as required.

Deadline 8 December 2024

Find out more and apply

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Moodle Developer Role – Lancashire Mind 
Lancashire Mind is seeking a Moodle Developer to enhance their Learning Management System and create interactive eLearning experiences focused on wellbeing and mental health.  

Salary: 25,767 per year (pro-rata) 
Contract: Full-time or part-time (A minimum of 28 hours per week) 
Location: Chorley, Burnley, Blackburn, Lancashire 
Closing date: 12 December 2024, 9am 
Interviews date: 7th January 2025 

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]