Information and Advice for the Lancaster District’s Third Sector – 9 May 2025

Explore this funding option here

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A B Charitable Trust
The A B Charitable Trust is inviting applications from UK-registered charities supporting marginalised groups and defending human dignity. Grants of £10,000 to £30,000 are available for one to three years and can be used for core or project funding. Priority areas include migrants and refugees, criminal justice reform, access to justice, and the human rights framework. Eligible charities must have an income between £150,000 and £1.5 million and demonstrate meaningful, focused impact.

The next deadline is 25 July 2025, with decisions announced in October.

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Jerwood Foundation
The Jerwood Foundation is now accepting applications for its Summer 2025 funding round, offering grants to UK-based organisations that champion public access to the arts and support emerging creative talent. Funding is available for a range of projects, including exhibitions, artist development, conservation, and public engagement. Past recipients include Granta Trust, Paintings in Hospitals, and The Courtauld. Projects must begin between 1 October 2025 and 1 June 2026.

The deadline for applications is 28 May 2025.

Find out more about this fund

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SPAR’s Community Cashback Campaign
SPAR’s Community Cashback Campaign is back for its fourth year, offering UK residents the chance to nominate a local voluntary group or charity to receive a grant of up to £10,000. Applicants simply need to share how their chosen organisation is making a difference and how the funding would help. Grants will be awarded based on the strength of each story, the organisation’s impact, and plans for the funding.

Applications close at midnight on 4 June 2025. Terms and the short application form can be found on the SPAR’s website.

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The Different Foundation ‘AI for All’ Funding/Mentoring Programme
The Different Foundation is offering one-off grants of up to £2,500 and tailored AI mentorship to UK-registered charities committed to increasing diversity in technology. Aimed at organisations with 1–10 employees and a turnover between £150,000 and £1.15 million, the programme focuses on tackling digital bias, amplifying underrepresented voices, and ensuring inclusive AI development. Successful applicants will receive both funding and four hours of expert mentoring to build their impact.

The deadline for applications is Monday 30 June 2025.

Learn more about this funding opportunity

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Health and Wellbeing in Museums Fund
UK museums with a strong track record in delivering impactful health and wellbeing programmes can now apply for grants of £50,000 to £75,000 to develop or sustain their work. With around ten grants available in this round, the fund supports museums that are strategically committed to health and wellbeing and have clear plans for future development. Applications open on 28 April 2025, with a deadline of 26 June 2025.

Interested applicants must first complete an eligibility quiz and, if successful, will be invited to discuss their proposal with the Museums Association before potentially submitting a full application. Decisions will be announced in late September 2025.

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Support for UK Servicewomen
The Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust is offering grants of £25,000 to £100,000 for projects supporting UK servicewomen, focusing on their unique physical and mental health needs, wellbeing, and access to tailored advice and education. Eligible organisations include registered charities, CICs, and Armed Forces units worldwide. Projects may be new, pilot initiatives, or expansions of existing work, and should begin before December 2025.

The application deadline is 12 noon on 25 June 2025, with only one funding round this financial year under the Servicewomen: Seen & Heard programme.

Read about the Armed Forces Covenant Fund

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Forestry Commission Tree Production Grants
The Forestry Commission has reopened applications for three key grant schemes, offering up to £4.1 million to enhance domestic tree and seed production in England. These grants—Tree Production Capital Grant, Tree Production Innovation Fund, and Seed Sourcing Grant—support a range of activities from upgrading nursery infrastructure to developing innovative technologies and establishing diverse, resilient seed sources. Open to public, private, and third sector organisations, the funding aims to help meet the UK’s tree planting targets while strengthening climate resilience and green job creation.

Deadlines range from 25 June to 19 August 2025, with free webinars available to guide applicants.

Read the Access Without Limits Guidance Sheet

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DofE Access Without Limits
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award has opened its Access Without Limits Fund, offering up to £10,250 over three years to voluntary and community sector organisations (VCSOs) working with marginalised young people outside formal education. The funding supports organisations in IMD 1–2 areas to become licensed DofE centres, covering equipment, training, staff setup costs, and reduced licence fees, alongside dedicated support from a DofE Operations Officer. The aim is to expand access to the DofE and help young people develop confidence, resilience, and life skills.

Expressions of interest are invited by 30 June 2025.

Discover more about this fund

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Museum Fundamentals Grants
Small and medium-sized museums can now apply for up to £20,000 through the Museum Fundamentals programme, a funding opportunity supported by the Pilgrim Trust and the Julia Rausing Trust. The grant is designed to help museums better care for, understand, and provide access to their collections—key to telling stories and connecting with visitors. Open to AIM members with fewer than 50,000 visitors annually, the programme includes mentoring support to help successful applicants deliver strong, sustainable projects.

Expressions of interest are due by 5pm on Friday 8 August 2025.

Learn more about this fund here

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Barclays Community Sport Fund
The Barclays Community Sport Fund is offering grants to support grassroots sport in areas of high deprivation, with a focus on increasing access for women, girls, and underrepresented groups. Not-for-profit organisations delivering football, tennis, or cricket activities can apply for up to £1,000, along with funding for female coach training.

Applications are open until 22 June 2025 (or earlier if oversubscribed), so early submissions are strongly encouraged.

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BFI Creative Challenge Fund
The BFI National Lottery Creative Challenge Fund is now open for applications from UK organisations developing creative project programmes in feature film, animation, documentary, or immersive storytelling. Aimed at boosting diversity, supporting early-career producers, and creating high-impact projects, the fund offers grants between £12,000 and £150,000. Eligible applicants include CICs, charities, production companies, and local authorities.

Applications are accepted year-round, but must be submitted at least 16 weeks before project start dates, with all activity to be completed by 31 March 2026.

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British Council Design Grants
The British Council is inviting applications for its 2025–26 Biennales and Festivals Grants, offering up to £10,000 to support international presentations of UK design work and UK-based showcases of international designers. Open to organisers working across architecture, design, fashion, and craft, the fund aims to promote cultural exchange, emerging talent, and global collaboration. Projects must involve completed design work and take place between September 2025 and August 2026.

Applications close on 1 June 2025 at 11.59pm

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Home Office Community Engagement Fund
The Home Office has reopened its Community Engagement Fund, offering grants between £5,000 and £10,000 to grassroots and community groups to help raise awareness about the Windrush Compensation and Documentation Schemes—particularly among non-Caribbean communities from countries such as Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nigeria, Ghana, and India. With £150,000 available in total, the fund aims to address misinformation, encourage applications, and build understanding around why eligible individuals may not be coming forward.

Funded projects must be completed by 31 March 2026, and applications close on 28 May 2025 at 4pm.

Explore this funding opportunity

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Access to Justice for Disabled People
The Three Guineas Trust has launched a new funding round offering grants of up to £50,000 per year (over one to three years) to not-for-profit organisations with incomes under £1 million. The funding aims to support disabled and neurodivergent people in exercising their rights in areas such as welfare, housing, community care, personal liberty, and access to goods and services. A total of £1.5 million is available, and the focus is on projects that provide legal advice, advocacy, or remove barriers to accessing such services.

The application deadline is 12 June 2025.

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Police and Crime Commissioner Summer Community Fund
The Police and Crime Commissioner is re-opening the Summer Community Fund on Friday 2nd May 2025. The fund will once again support projects that engage young people at risk or in need of positive support during the summer holidays. This includes diversionary activities, prevention initiatives, and targeted interventions.

Applications up to £3000, will be welcomed from Community Safety Partnerships, local organisations, charities, community groups, and Parish and Town Councils.

Further details about the fund will be published on the Commissioner’s website and social media channels on the launch date.

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Universal Music UK Sound Foundation – School Awards Open
Grants of up to £1,000 are available from the Universal Music UK Sound Foundation to help UK and Republic of Ireland schools purchase musical instruments and equipment, boosting access to music for students and teachers. Open to schools delivering the national curriculum, the funding aims to support music education at a grassroots level.

Applications are reviewed three times a year, the next deadline is 25 June 2025 at 1pm.

Find out more and apply now

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Roots & Routes Fund – Youth-Led Climate Justice Grants
The Roots & Routes Fund, delivered by the Blagrave Trust, is offering one-year grants of up to £20,000 to youth-led organisations in England that are working to advance climate justice. The fund supports early-stage ideas, new initiatives, or groups adding a climate justice focus to existing work. Eligible organisations must be youth-led (with at least 55% of leadership aged 18–30), represent communities most impacted by climate injustice, and have annual income between £10,000 and £500,000.

The application deadline to apply is 2 June 2025, with decisions expected on 4 July.

Apply and find out more

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Eric Wright Charitable Trust 2025
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.

The fund opened for application on Friday 18 April.

There are no fixed application deadlines. Apply for funding at any time and we’ll let you know the result by the middle of the following month. For example, all organisations who submit an application before midnight on 30 April will find out whether or not they have a grant in the middle of May. May applicants will find out in June, 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 by email at [email protected]

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Funding Local Green Ideas
Lancaster University is proud to support community-led sustainability projects through their Wind Turbine Community Benefit Fund – and applications are now open! Whether it’s restoring green spaces, like the recent transformation of the Storey Gardens, or launching new eco-initiatives, the fund is helping local projects thrive.

The fund, which originated with the installation of the University’s wind turbine in 2012, has been a significant contributor to the Lancaster District, providing funding to not-for-profit organisations, charities, trusts, community groups, and voluntary organisations.

The wind turbine, which generates around 15% of the University’s overall energy demand, has not only contributed to their sustainability efforts but also enabled them to give back to the local community. Have a great idea that could benefit your community?

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Theatres Trust Small Grants
The Theatres Trust Small Grants Scheme is currently open for applications, offering grants of up to £7,500 to support small capital projects that strengthen the resilience, sustainability, or accessibility of theatres, or help diversify audiences. The fund is open to charitable and not-for-profit organisations across the UK that own or manage theatres with at least a five-year lease and deliver a regular programme of at least 30 performances annually.

The deadline to apply is 6 June 2025 at 5pm.

For more details, visit the Theatres Trust website.

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Museum Renewal Fund
The Museum Renewal Fund is targeted at museums owned and directly maintained by local authority funding, or with a governance link to a local authority (LA). As operators of multiple, often large, sites, these museums have been hit hard by the rise in operating costs and loss of funding from local authorities. The Museum Renewal Fund is an urgent intervention to enable rapid delivery in 2025/26, to safeguard the vital community engagement and impact which public access to museums enables.

The total budget available for this fund is £20,000,000. It is drawn from Arts Council England’s Grant in Aid budget allocation from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. The amount that applicants can apply for is made up of two elements.

Applicants can apply for:

the evidenced shortfall within their 2025-26 budget

plus, costs for additional development activity intended to boost financial and business sustainability by March 2026

Museum Renewal Fund 2025-26 – guidance for applicants

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Community Regeneration of Historic Buildings in Town Centres
A new £5 million Heritage Revival Fund has been launched to support the community regeneration of historic town centre buildings across England. Funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport and Historic England, and delivered by the Architectural Heritage Fund, this one-year programme (running from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026) offers grants between £5,000 and £350,000. It is open to charities, social enterprises, and other not-for-profit organisations aiming to acquire, adapt, or bring historic buildings back into community use. Grants are available for feasibility studies, business planning, building acquisition, and capital renovation.

Expressions of Interest for Capital Works Grants open 12 May and close 27 June 2025, while applications for Project Viability and Project Development Grants are open now.

Learn more about this funding option

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Lancaster University’s Community Benefits Fund
Lancaster University’s Community Benefits Fund is offering grants of up to £20,000 to support local sustainability projects across the Lancaster District. Established alongside the university’s wind turbine, which generates around 15% of campus energy needs, the fund reinvests savings into community-based and environmental initiatives.

Applications are open until Sunday, 29 June 2025.

Learn more about this local funding option

Sector News, Resources & Reports

Studio Space Available at Good Things Collective
If you’re a local artist, activist, or social entrepreneur (or any combination of the above), a space in the GTC House of Cooperation might be just what you’re looking for!

There is both a shared studio and private studio available. Check out this blog post with all the details you need to know including more info about the spaces, pricing and how to register interest.

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Final Call to Help Shape Lancashire’s Anti-Poverty Network
Resolve Poverty is making a final push for responses to the Lancashire Anti-Poverty Network (LAPN) Poverty Awareness, Prioritisation & Activity Survey, which closes next Friday. The survey seeks insights from professionals and volunteers supporting people in poverty across Lancashire, aiming to gather best practice, highlight gaps, and shape anti-poverty efforts locally. Those who complete the survey will be invited to the first LAPN forum meeting in June, where results will be shared. The survey takes 15–20 minutes and is a chance to directly influence future anti-poverty work in the region.

Complete the survey here

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School Minibus Appeal
Caton St Paul’s C of E Primary School is appealing for support to replace its much-loved but aging minibus, which has been vital in helping children access sports events, outdoor learning, choir performances, and more. With rising transport costs and limited public options, a new minibus is essential to keep these enriching experiences going—not just for Caton pupils, but for other local schools and youth groups who also rely on it. Donations of any size are welcome and will help ensure children across the community continue to learn and grow beyond the classroom.

Help the school raise these important funds, visit their GoFundMe page here

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Free Capacity-Building Programme ‘Nurturing Grassroots’
Civil Society Consulting CIC has launched Nurturing Grassroots, a fully funded, three-year support programme for grassroots organisations and CICs across the East, North East, North West, and Midlands. Funded by the National Lottery Community Fund, the initiative will offer tailored one-to-one support, expert-led workshops, and leadership coaching to 120 organisations, helping to build capacity in governance, fundraising, impact, and sustainability.

If you are a grassroots organisation or CIC and would like to take part in Nurturing Grassroots or find out more, contact [email protected] or visit their website here. You can also read the programme leaflet here.

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Psychology Employability Programme
Lancaster University’s Psychology Employability Programme is offering a unique opportunity for local and national organisations to engage with enthusiastic and skilled psychology undergraduates. Each year, 70–100 students volunteer in roles such as research assistants, mentors, and support facilitators, providing valuable assistance while gaining hands-on experience in their field. Organisations benefit from reliable support, fresh ideas, and strong links with the university, while students develop essential skills and build meaningful career experience. Current partners include Age UK, The National Autistic Society, and Shelter.

To find out more or get involved, contact [email protected]

See the programme leaflet here
Learn more about this programme

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Refugee Week 2025 – Celebrate Community as a Superpower in Lancashire
Lancashire Refugee Integration Team is inviting community groups, charities, and local organisations to get involved in Refugee Week 2025 by applying for funding to host events that celebrate the strength, diversity, and compassion within Lancashire’s communities. This year’s theme is “Community as a Superpower”. A range of events are already planned, including:

Community Fest at UCLan (14th June)

Refugee Film Festival at The Dukes in Lancaster (17th June)

Music Festival at Burnley Library (21st June)

There’s also a callout for choirs to join a county-wide Refugee Week Singing Festival. Groups can apply for up to £1,000 in funding by completing a short online form by 18th April.

For more details or to have your event featured in the official brochure, contact LRIT at [email protected]

Date: 13th–22nd June

See more info on the event specification sheet

Email [email protected] for information about how you can be involved.

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The Big Lunch – Sharing Friendship & Food
The Big Lunch is inviting everyone across the UK to get together in their communities to share friendship and food on 7-8 June this year. An idea from the Eden Project, The Big Lunch started in 2009 and has become the UK’s annual celebration for neighbours and the biggest community-led fundraiser, helping to raise over £100m for good causes so far.

A Big Lunch can be anything from a bite to eat with a few neighbours to parties for the whole street, and anything in between. It’s fun, it’s easy and it’s for everyone, so download your free party planning pack and make your community the place to be this June!

Get your free pack – TheBigLunch.com

Training

Adult Mental Health First Aid
Mental health first aid (MHFA) is an internationally recognised two-day training course which teaches people how to spot the signs and symptoms of mental ill health and provide help on a first aid basis. MHFA England training will teach you the best way to listen, reassure and respond, even in a crisis. Learning takes place through a mix of group activities, presentations and discussions.

The course normally costs up to £300, but in this case is fully funded by Lancashire County Council Public Health and is free. However, delegates must pay a £50 deposit (plus £2.65 covering ticketing and payment fees charged by our suppliers) at the time of booking. Your £50 deposit will be repaid on completion of both full days.

13 & 14 May, 9am – 5pm, Torrisholme Methodist Church

Find out more and book

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ASIST Suicide Prevention
Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) is a two-day interactive workshop in suicide first-aid. ASIST teaches participants to recognise when someone may be at risk of suicide and work with them to create a plan that will support their immediate safety. Although ASIST is widely used by healthcare providers, participants don’t need any formal training to attend the workshop—ASIST can be learned and used by anyone.

The course is free, fully funded by Lancashire County Council Public Health and is free. However, delegates must pay a £50 deposit (plus £2.65 covering ticketing and payment fees charged by our suppliers) at the time of booking. Your £50 deposit will be repaid on completion of both full days.

3 & 4 June, 9am – 5pm, Venue TBC

Find out more and book

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Public Speaking & Pitching Your Charity
This half-day session will give you confidence in standing up in front of people and putting across your message effectively. The session will be interactive, informal and fun, with the aim of taking away any fear you might feel about getting up there.

how to deliver an impactful one-minute pitch you can use anytime
how to structure an engaging presentation
ways to grab and keep the audience’s attention
how to use images and statistics to reinforce what you’re saying
common pitfalls to avoid

13 June, 9:30am – 1pm, The Cornerstone LA1 1PX

£5.40

Find out more and book

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Citizens Advice Benefits Training Workshops
Three upcoming workshops are being offered for advisers, support workers, community workers, health professionals, and others in caring professions:

Benefits, Debt and Housing Emergencies
Thursday 6th June, 10am–4pm
Morecambe Town Hall, Marine Road East, Morecambe, LA4 5AF

This session will explore how to identify and respond to emergencies relating to benefits, debt, and housing. Specialist advisers will guide attendees through different approaches to crisis situations.

Book here

Personal Independence Payments and Attendance Allowance
Thursday 13th June, 10am–4pm
Morecambe Town Hall, Marine Road East, Morecambe, LA4 5AF

This workshop will focus on the challenges and best practices involved in applying for PIP and Attendance Allowance, led by members of the expert Advice Team.

Book here

Sickness Benefits
Friday 16th May 2025, 10am–4pm
Morecambe Town Hall, Marine Road East, Morecambe, LA4 5AF

This session will explore which benefits may be appropriate for people who are sick or disabled and how to support them in making applications.

These workshops include a networking lunch. Attendees are asked to advise of any dietary requirements when booking.

Book here

For more information contact the Training Lead Phil McGrath – [email protected] / 01524 400404.

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DWP Disability Services Advocacy Team External Stakeholder Information Sessions
The DWP are offering several information sessions for external stakeholders during June. These include:

Disability Living Allowance Child – what Disability Living Allowance for Children is, the eligibility criteria and the whole customer journey from making a claim to receiving a decision.

Upksilling Sessions for SEN schools, colleges and organisations supporting students with Disability Services benefits and grants.

Personal Independence Payment – what PIP is, eligibility criteria, and the assessment process.

Access to Work – what AtW can support and eligibility criteria.

3-18 June 2025

To find out more and book, download further information here

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Public Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Training Courses
Youth Mental Health First Aid – Full (2 day) and Half Day Aware courses
This course provides a more in depth understanding of specific mental health issues. It focuses on the issues faced by young people today, such as cyber bullying and substance misuse, and teaches how to promote protective factors and good parenting.

YMHFA Half Day Aware is an introductory course designed to increase awareness of young people’s mental health and some of the issues that can affect this age group. This is delivered on Zoom.

Please see the YMHFA fact sheet for further details HERE

Adult Mental Health First Aid – Full and Half Day Aware courses
AMHFA Full Course (two day) – A practical skills and awareness course to cover topics such as gaining a deeper understanding of mental health and the factors that can affect people’s wellbeing, including your own and practical skills to spot the triggers and signs of mental health issues, amongst much more.

The Adult MHFA Half day Online course is a 4 hour (one date only) online training session. An introductory course designed to increase mental health awareness and give an understanding of how to look after wellbeing and challenge stigma. Delivered on Zoom.

Please see the AMHFA fact sheet for further details HERE

SafeTALK – Free suicide alertness training
SafeTALK helps participants become alert to suicide. Suicide-alert people are better prepared to connect persons with thoughts of suicide with life-affirming help.

Please see the safeTALK fact sheet for further details HERE

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Free CO Awareness Workshops Available Online
The Gas Safe Charity is continuing to offer its free Think CO Zoom workshops through to June 2025. These engaging, hour-long sessions are open to individuals and organisations and cover the sources, signs, symptoms, and prevention of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Organisations can also arrange bespoke workshops for their staff, volunteers, or partner networks.

Date & time: Next workshop is on Tues 13 May, 2025

To book a session or enquire about a tailored workshop, email [email protected] or visit their site to book a Free Think CO workshop

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Anti-Poverty Training Courses

Valuing Lived Experience
For anyone aiming to better understand the value of lived experience engagement in tackling poverty, and the practicalities of developing and managing lived experience engagement activities.

29 May, 10am-4pm | Online

Learn more and book your place

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Become a Volunteer Citizen Journalist for THRIVE
Are you interested in writing articles for publication? Would you like to contribute to making our local food system, healthier, fairer and more equal?

How about becoming a volunteer Citizen Journalist for THRIVE, FoodFutures’ quarterly magazine!

The THRIVE team are looking to skill up people interested in becoming citizen journalists and contributing to the future direction of the magazine. You’ll be supported in building your writing skills, and have the chance to get articles published.

To support this there will be a day of training on 10 May 2025 (10:00 – 17:00) at the Cornerstone in Lancaster. This will cover an intro to citizen journalism, finding a good story, doing interviews well and putting an article together (including writing style, imagery and layout). Lunch will be provided and booking is essential.

Please fill out this form for a place on the training.

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Active Lancashire – MECC, HC, PAM Training
Active Lancashire is offering a series of free and accredited training courses designed to support professionals and volunteers in making positive health and wellbeing conversations part of everyday life. Courses include Make Every Contact Count (MECC) familiarisation, specialist sessions for physical activity and mental health, as well as a Train the Trainer day for those looking to deliver MECC themselves. Additional sessions cover Patient Activation Measures (PAM) and a two-day Health Coaching course. All places are first come, first served, with plenty of dates available — and participants are encouraged to commit once booked.

Full course details and booking links can be found on the Active Lancashire Learning Zone.

For any queries, contact [email protected]

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Risk Assess your Charity Building
The Ethical Property Foundation’s advisers will guide delegates through the essentials of conducting a risk assessment for your premises, including:

20 May, 12 noon – 1pm, online

Find our more and register

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Informing Research on Romantic Relationships Workshop
The goal of this event is to advance research on romantic relationships, exploring their patterns and trends, and how they affect various areas of society. This includes topics such as social connectedness and loneliness, fertility, child-rearing, being child-free, infrastructure (like health and housing), and economic factors.

The aim is to connect with experts, discuss important issues, and help shape the future direction of our research. The workshop will include three short presentations on current trends in research regarding dating, intimacy, connection, and relationships, with the following interactive activities:

Identifying and mapping key issues in this area

Determining the types of data that organisations and practitioners need to support policy and practice

Exploring the best ways to translate research for these organisations

Developing goals that can guide broader research agendas

Registration is free with lunch and parking included

Time and Date: May 28th 2025, 10am-3pm

Location: Lancaster University, Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4YW and online

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Coffee connections: digital peer support
A free initiative for anyone working in the charity sector who is interested in connecting with a peer to chat about any digital topic. They will match you up randomly with someone else who has signed up and you can discuss any digital issues, ideas, etc. together.

Find out more and sign up

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Help Shape the LDCVS Training Programme
CVS members – and anyone else who is interested – can help us shape our training programme by completing this short survey. The results will help us plan our future provision to best suit your needs. Completing the questions should only take a few minutes.

Take the survey here

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DWP Disability Services support for SEND Schools, Colleges and Support Organisations
The Disability Services Advocacy Team are running free online sessions to support with raising awareness of the different Disability Services benefits and grants – Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB) and Access to Work (ATW).

They will be covering Disability Living Allowance for Children (DLA Child) and Personal Independence Payment (PIP) including the transition from DLA Child to PIP when the Child reaches the age of 16. The session will also include how Access to Work can help and support following secondary education when moving into employment.

To book:

Thursday 15 May 1pm – 3pm

Volunteering

Volunteer Achievement Awards – 9 days Left to Nominate!

If you have not yet nominated someone for one of our eight awards this year, what are you waiting for? There are just nine days left to nominate or to request a certificate of recognition for your chosen volunteer or group of volunteers. Please remember that the award categories are for individuals only; it is the certificates of recognition that are for individuals OR groups of volunteers.

A nomination using our online nomination form takes an average of 8 minutes to complete, so why not sit down with a cuppa and let someone know how much you appreciate them!

Visit the page for the 2025 Awards to find out more and to nominate using our online form. We really encourage you to read the guidance before you submit your form.

And remember that you can still book your tickets here. Tickets are priced at £6 plus a small booking fee and are limited to four per organisation, to ensure that we can welcome as many people from as many organisations as possible.

If you would like to ask any questions or discuss the Awards further, please contact [email protected]

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Volunteer Achievement Awards Sponsors

We are delighted to be able to tell you that this year’s Volunteer Achievement Awards has attracted some wonderful sponsors. Lancaster University is sponsoring this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award; Lancaster & Morecambe College is sponsoring one of our brand new for 2025 categories, the Environment Hero Award; and the Young Volunteer of the Year Award is being sponsored by HSE Advice UK.

HSE Advice UK is a fantastic local business, started in 2021 by local woman Ashley Walker, and was the winner of the Best New Business Award at the 2023 Best of the Bay Awards, also becoming finalists in the EVAs and the BIBAs. You can find out more about HSE Advice UK by clicking the link above.

Lancaster District CVS is so pleased to have the support of local businesses and institutions that recognise and understand the importance of volunteers, volunteering, and community. Thank you Lancaster University, Lancaster & Morecambe College, and HSE Advice UK!

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Data Entry/Spreadsheet Volunteer Available

Do you need a volunteer for data entry? We have a potential volunteer with this particular interest. Please contact Mark for a chat about this young man – [email protected]

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Treasurer at The Rainbow Centre
The Rainbow Centre in Morecambe provides a range of weekly activities run by both volunteer leaders and professional instructors. The Centre is a vibrant and welcoming place and new members are warmly welcomed.

The Centre’s board is looking for a new Treasurer to oversee all financial aspects of their operation and evaluate their financial position and associate risks. The Treasurer will also assist the Chair, other officers and the Centre Manager in ensuring that the Board of Trustees fulfils its duties and responsibilities for the proper financial governance of the charity.

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Maintenance Volunteer at The Rainbow Centre
The Rainbow Centre in Morecambe provides a range of weekly activities run by both volunteer leaders and professional instructors. The Centre is a vibrant and welcoming place and new members are warmly welcomed.

The Centre needs someone to help out with a wide range of tasks from small DIY jobs including small joinery tasks, basic decorating, keeping storage areas tidy, putting together flat pack furniture and other similar jobs. The time commitment is approximately one day a week, 9am – 3:30pm.

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Samaritans – Volunteers Needed!
Lancaster & District Samaritans needs more volunteers to be there for people in distress.

If you’d like to find out more about what being a volunteer involves, please come along to an informal information event. There are many ways you can help – listening volunteer, support with admin, in our shop, fundraising and lots more.

Time and Date: Saturdays, 21st June & 26th July, 1.30pm – 2.30pm
Location: St Thomas, Marton St, Lancaster, LA1 1XX

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Volunteers Needed – West End Allotment Clear Up!
10 volunteers are wanted to help clear a garden allotment in the West End (behind Bay Leadership Academy) on Saturday the 10^th of May. The large allotment has been acquired by Morecambe FC Community Foundation and this summer will be developed into a safe, welcoming space for Armed Forces Veterans and their families to come together and connect whilst enjoying the benefits of horticultural therapy.

If you can spare an hour or two, your support would make a big difference.

To get involved, please contact the Veterans Officer on 07450 372211 or email [email protected]

All PPE will be provided, and refreshments will be made available on the day!

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RNIB Project 35 Panel Members
RNIB is seeking volunteers aged 18–45 with lived experience of sight loss to join a new Project 35 panel, running from May to September 2025. The panel will help shape RNIB’s response to future challenges by exploring how the world may change for blind and partially sighted people over the next decade. RNIB welcomes applications from people with a range of visual impairments, including those not formally registered. This is a voluntary role and aims to ensure diverse voices help guide the organisation’s future direction.

Expressions of interest are open until 9 May (today) – Complete a short form here

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Do Something Different – Become an on-call firefighter
Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service is currently recruiting on-call firefighters—local people who live or work within five to eight minutes of a fire station and can respond quickly to emergencies. No prior experience is needed—just commitment, a good level of fitness, and a desire to serve the community. In return, volunteers receive full training, a salary, and the chance to develop new skills while making a real difference.

Interested individuals can register online to find out more.

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Repairs & Maintenance Volunteers at Morecambe Winter Gardens
Would you like to help an old building get up to date? A lively Repairs and Maintenance team is working tirelessly to get the Morecambe Winter Gardens back to its former glory.

With so much to do in the building they work between 10 and 2pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays doing various restoration jobs. They need help with some of these jobs as with plans to build an extension to the building in readiness for their grand opening in 2026.

Skills needed include general construction, electrical, carpentry, french polishing, painting and joinery.

Find out more about this opportunity

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Independent Custody Visitor Volunteer Needed
As an ICV you will make unannounced visits to police cells to ensure those individuals detained are being cared for appropriately by checking on the conditions and talking with willing detainees.

There are no qualifications needed to be an ICV but applicants must be over the age of 18, live or work in Lancashire and be a resident in the UK for at least three years.

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Let’s BeFriends need Volunteers
Could you support someone experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness? Let’s BeFriends offers a full training and support package for new volunteers who want to help them in their efforts to ensure that nobody gets left behind.

To find out more and to apply

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Lancaster Men’s Hub – Trustee/Chair
Lancaster Men’s Hub is looking for a new chair for their board of trustees. Lancaster Men’s Hub provides opportunities to enjoy shared activities in a safe environment and allows people to socialise and form friendships. Their focus is the wellbeing of men, but both women and men are welcome in LMH. LMH won the UK Men’s Sheds Association Shed of the Year 2023 in the category of Health and Wellbeing and offers a range of activities including weekly ‘elevenses’, woodworking, games evenings, and more!

Find out more about the role and apply.

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Volunteer Opportunity with Bee Adventures
A new volunteer opportunity is open for someone aged 18–22 to help lead Wild Youth, supporting the organisation of trips and fundraisers alongside enthusiastic young participants. The role offers hands-on experience in outdoor tourism and youth work, with training included—such as outdoor first aid and a lowland trekking guide qualification. There’s also potential for further supported qualifications and future paid work in the sector.

Get in touch with Bee Adventures here

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Trustee Opportunities at The Dukes
The Dukes is looking for passionate and dedicated individuals to join its Board of Trustees, including a new Chair, to help guide the future of one of Lancaster’s most treasured cultural institutions. They’re especially keen to hear from those with experience in business, finance, accountancy, or law—particularly in contracts and HR. If you’re ready to support the arts and make a real impact, this is a fantastic opportunity to get involved.

Get in touch and apply

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Board Member at Imitating the Dog
Are you interested in joining the board of award-winning theatre and visual arts company imitating the dog?

This is an exciting opportunity to get involved with a National Portfolio Organisation (NPO) whose live performance and digital installations have been seen by hundreds of thousands of people across the world in their 25 year history.

They’re particularly keen to work with people who have skills or experiences in working in arts and culture, legal matters, media and marketing, management, advocacy skills, fundraising, or HR.

View their poster for further info

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Trustees & Chair of Trustees at Lancashire Youth Challenge
Lancashire Youth Challenge (LYC) empowers young people across Lancashire to unlock their potential, build resilience, and embrace challenges that foster personal growth.

Over the last ten years, the charity has been on a journey of growth and development investing over £1 million in supporting thousands of young people’s development through creative arts, sports, and outdoor adventure across Lancashire.

Now, LYC is looking for new trustees to join its board, including a new Chair of Trustees.

To find out more about joining the LYC board, download the recruitment pack.

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Volunteers Wanted for The Friends of Lancaster Library
Do you have a few hours to volunteer with our friendly local charity?
There are many roles where you can help promote and support Lancaster Library, from baking cakes to chairing meetings and everything in between. For further details please email: [email protected]

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Local Scout Group ‘Squirrels’ Launch Volunteer Opportunity
A local Scout group at the rear of Greaves Park is on the lookout for enthusiastic volunteers to help launch and run a brand-new Squirrels Drey for 4- and 5-year-olds. They’re particularly keen to hear from people who’d enjoy leading fun, engaging sessions and activities for young children. No previous experience is needed — just a bit of enthusiasm and a willingness to get involved! If you or someone you know might be interested, the group would be delighted to share more details about what’s involved.

Contact Kelly for more at [email protected]

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Volunteer opportunities with Morecambe Maritime Festival

Morecambe Maritime Festival is a community led celebration of Morecambe’s Culture, Heritage and Environment, raising funds for Morecambe RNLI.

The organisers are looking for volunteers in a number of different roles including:

Fundraiser – helping to obtain grants, donations and sponsors
Leaflet distribution – distributing publicity materials to the public across various areas
Venue steward – helping visitors and being a point of contact between organisers and venues

Visit our volunteering website to find out more

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Finance/Admin Volunteer Available

We currently have a gentleman with a finance background (AAT Accountancy Levels 2 & 3) looking for finance and/or administrative volunteering positions. If you are currently in need of someone with finance skills, or think that someone with such skills might be helpful to you, please contact [email protected]. Mark will be able to put you in touch with this gentleman for a chat.

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Trustees for Skerton Community Centre
Skerton Community Centre are undergoing an exciting transformation as they prepare to launch a new three-year strategy. They are looking for up to three new trustees to join their board and help them navigate a period of change. Trustees will help the organisation grow and adapt by defining and monitoring the strategic direction of the charity.

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Non-Executive Director (Voluntary) at Community Mind Connect CIC
Community Mind Connect C.I.C. is dedicated to building a more sustainable and vibrant future for the Lancaster district by connecting communities with cutting-edge ideas. They are seeking passionate and dedicated individuals to join their Board of Directors on a voluntary basis.

Board Directors will play a vital role in the strategic leadership, governance, and oversight of the organisation, working closely with the founder. Your input and expertise will be valued in shaping their strategy and ensuring continued success.

View the role information leaflet here

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Trustees wanted for the Lancaster District Food Justice Partnership 
The Lancaster District Food Justice Partnership is recruiting for new trustees. The LDFJP is a partnership organisation that works to provide coordinated and effective food support across the district. They are looking for trustees to create a strong and skilled board that can guide their organisation through the charity application process and oversee the strategy of the partnership. 

This is a great opportunity for members of the community to help steer the direction of the Lancaster District Food Justice Partnership. Trustees will act as an ambassador for the LDFJP and provide guidance in various decision-making processes as well as developing and overseeing the overall strategy of the organisation. 

If you are interested in becoming a trustee and want to find out more, please see the Call for Trustees and click here to apply. 

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Trustee – Francis Scott Trust 
The Francis Scott Trust are looking for someone to join their board and help make positive changes for local young people. 

They are one of the largest independent grant funders in the area that’s solely focused on children and young people (up to the age of 24). You’ll find them distributing over £1m every year, supporting initiatives that make a difference to their lives. They also provide social investment loans and help with organisational development. 

They are looking for individuals who will be committed and enthusiastic, live and work in or with close connections to the area they serve and have experience of the voluntary sector.  

Download the information pack to apply

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Read Easy Morecambe & Lancaster
There are 2.4 million adults in England alone – over 7% of the working age population – who can barely read or cannot read at all. Read Easy is a project that supports adults learning to read. It is growing in Lancaster is looking for people for these roles on the management team:

Volunteer Publicity Organiser: Focuses on social media and local media to promote our services and encourage more adults to come forward for support.
What someone will gain in the role: Hands-on experience in publicity, media and community engagement, plus a big opportunity to shape our story

Referrals Networker: Builds relationships with local agencies, such as other charities, job centres and social services, to ensure a steady flow of new readers.
What someone will gain in the role: Networking experience with local groups, and communication and relationship-building skills.

Volunteer Coordinator: Supports and pairs volunteer reading coaches with adults learning to read, helping to ensure a smooth learning journey.
What someone will gain in the role: Leadership, mentoring and co-ordination experience, and a deeper understanding of how literacy support can change lives.

If you would like to know more please contact [email protected]

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Fundraiser with Harmony Health CIC
Harmony Health CIC is a community interest company dedicated to supporting individuals with long-term conditions, mental health challenges, and social isolation through nature-based therapy, occupational therapy, and well-being activities

The volunteer fundraiser will help raise funds through events, sponsorships, and community initiatives, The role will be crucial in helping develop a therapeutic garden and well-being hub offering free and low-cost support to those in need.

Find out more about this opportunity

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Volunteer Activators Wanted at City Council Tennis Courts
LCC are partnering with LTA – Tennis For Britain to refurbish the tennis courts at Happy Mount Park and Palatine Recreation Ground.

They also plan to offer free weekend tennis sessions for all ages and abilities at Palatine, starting between Spring and Summer.

They’re looking for volunteers (18+) to become Activators and help run these free sessions, creating opportunities for both children and adults to get active and enjoy tennis.

You don’t need to be a professional player, but being organised, a good communicator, and able to work well with groups is essential.

Those who are interested please email [email protected]

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Moving Forward Volunteers – Breast Cancer Now
Moving Forward Volunteers support courses delivered by Breast Cancer Now that help people take the next step after primary breast cancer treatment. Moving Forward services and information are for anyone living with and beyond breast cancer, helping them approach life after treatment with increased confidence.

Courses usually take place over two consecutive weeks and are delivered by a Moving Forward Facilitator, in partnership with NHS hospitals and are supported by on demand online resources.

Two volunteers are required for each course, who 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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Treasurer – Rainbow Centre
The Rainbow Centre provides a range of weekly activities run by volunteer leaders and professional instructors from their premises on Clarence Street in Morecambe. The Centre’s board are seeking a volunteer treasurer to oversee all financial aspects of the charity’s operation and to assist the Chair, officers and Centre Manager in ensuring the organisation fulfils its duties and responsibilities.

Download the role description

For more information, contact [email protected]

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Fundraiser – Friends of Lancaster Cemetery
Friends of Lancaster Cemetery look after the graveyard to assist the council. They are a small group with lots of big plans and would like a fundraiser to raise money for bulbs, tools and various projects such as a tree trail, heritage trail and information boards.

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Perinatal Support Volunteer – LSCFT
The role of the specially trained Perinatal Support Volunteer is to offer one to one contact providing the opportunity to speak to someone who has also been through their own journey, offering support in attending appointments and providing a listening and empathetic ear. Women and their families affected by Mental health during the perinatal period often express that it helps to talk to someone who has been through a similar experience. Volunteers will offer safe, effective and appropriate peer support to the woman that they’re supporting using their experiential skills and knowledge.