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Author: Aimee Webb

A Tough Mudder Triumph!

Posted on by Aimee Webb

Three weeks ago, eight brave volunteers took on the Yorkshire Tough Mudder 5k for Fresh Futures! Including team members from UK Greetings and Leach, raising vital funds to support disadvantaged and vulnerable children, young people and families in our community!

Braving mud pits, electric shock wires, and challenging obstacles, the team powered through with determination and teamwork, crossing the finish line in high spirits!

Fresh Futures extends heartfelt thanks to all involved for their incredible effort, and collectively fundraising over £1,250 for Fresh Futures!

Here are some highlights from the day:

Three smiling participants stand together after completing an outdoor race, proudly wearing medals around their necks and matching black athletic gear. Two of them wear orange headbands and hold drinks, while a large event banner with a flame design serves as the backdrop.
Two race finishers stand side by side on a grassy field, smiling with medals around their necks. One wears a green headband and patterned black tank top, the other an orange headband and dark green shirt. Metal barriers and event banners with the Tough Mudder logo are in the background
Participants in a Tough Mudder event climb a large metal structure covered with ropes, while others tackle the steep wooden wall at its base. Some people are already near the top, while others struggle upward, covered in mud. A woman in a black hoodie watches from the foreground as flags mark the course on the grassy field.
The image shows a large field, showing an obstacle course race taking part. In the distance you can see an orange obstacle, as well as a row of people all heading away from the camera.

Fancy taking on this challenge next year? Email us at [email protected] today!

Volunteer of the Month – July 2025

Posted on by Aimee Webb

Volunteer of the month is when we get to shout about our amazing volunteers and the, quite literally, life changing work they do to help Fresh Futures run smoothly and effectively.

This month we would like to say a big THANK YOU to Ruby who is an Elevate Volunteer. We caught up with Ruby to hear about her Fresh Futures volunteering journey so far…

Tell us a bit about yourself:

I am going into my final year of university in September.

I think most people would describe me as chatty and I LOVE doing a jigsaw puzzle.

How long have you been volunteering for Fresh Futures?

I have been volunteering with Elevate for 6 months, since the end of January this year.

Explain your volunteering role:

I am mainly there to talk to about things, such as something specific for a session.

The main aim is to make and everyone feel involved and included throughout the duration of the session.

What made you want to start volunteering with Fresh Futures?

I wanted to do some form of volunteering and when I found the opportunity with Fresh Futures I knew it would be something that i would enjoy doing.

I love coming to the sessions every week and am glad to have made new friends and connections.

What’s a typical day of volunteering for you?

A typical day volunteering would include me showing up to our usual room and helping set up; organising which games we want to play; helping tidy up and chatting with everyone.

If we have something scheduled like going bowling or to a food bank, sometimes we meet at the place and then I get involved in the activity like everyone else.

And finally, what advice would you give to people considering volunteering with Fresh Futures?

Fresh Futures is a great place to volunteer, all the staff are kind and friendly.

The atmosphere is welcoming and there’s always something going on activities wise!!

A vibrant recognition poster featuring Ruby Chadwick as 'Volunteer of the Month' for Fresh Futures. The poster has a red-orange background with cloud and swirl graphics. In the centre, a photo shows a group of volunteers working around a table in what appears to be a warehouse or storage area. Ruby Chadwick is highlighted as an 'Elevate Volunteer.' A golden trophy icon adds to the celebratory theme. The top of the poster includes the Fresh Futures logo and the tagline, 'Improving lives, inspiring change.
Volunteer of the Month Poster- July 2025

If you feel inspired to become a volunteer like Ruby, or if you would like to volunteer in any way for our charity, please contact Lucy on 01484 519988 or [email protected]

Farewell to the Befriending Service!

Posted on by Aimee Webb

Fresh Futures wishes to share some important news. On 30th June, the Befriending Service was officially handed over to Age UK Calderdale & Kirklees.

This decision was not made lightly; it followed careful thought and planning. The Charity firmly believes that handing the service over to Age UK is the best way to ensure the project continues to deliver outstanding support for isolated individuals, while allowing Fresh Futures to focus on its core charity values – supporting vulnerable and disadvantaged children and young people in Kirklees and the surrounding areas.

Fresh Futures has worked closely with Age UK for many years, including during the pandemic when the two organisations collaborated to deliver the Befriending Partnership. The Charity knows firsthand how exceptional Age UK is at providing caring, community-based support for older people. Fresh Futures is confident that Age UK will continue to offer the same warm, friendly connections that have made this service so special.

The image shows two women smiling at the camera, it looks like a living room setting with pictures on the wall. The woman on the left is elderly, with white hair and wears a purple cardigan, the woman on the right has dark hair, with a fringe and dark rimmed glasses.
A client with their befriending volunteer
The image shows six women, stood in a line all posing for the picture. The background looks like a classroom with a projection on the wall in the lefthand half of the picture. The women range from 30s to middle aged and they are all smiling at the camera.
Staff involved in the befriending service

The Charity would like to take this opportunity to express sincere thanks to everyone who has been part of this journey. To all the staff and volunteers, your time, dedication, and kindness have made a significant difference in many people’s lives. To everyone who has taken part in the service, thank you for the connections made and the moments shared.

As Fresh Futures takes the next steps in delivering its core projects for children and young people, the Charity remains proud of everything the Befriending Service has achieved over the years. It has been a privilege to witness the support that has been provided and the joy that has come from the relationships built through the project.

Fresh Futures is excited to see the Befriending Service continue to thrive under the leadership of Age UK and is confident it will continue to make a meaningful difference in the community for years to come.

The image shows three women posing for the picture, it looks like it is Christmas as there is a tree and presents in the background, they are all dressed in red and all have blonde hair.
Staff involved in the befriending service
The image shows two women in a living rooms, there is a fireplace and a stack of video tapes in the background. The room is decorated in beiges and browns. One of the women is on the right, sat in a comfy chair and appears to be in the middle of saying something. The other woman is sat behind a elevated dinner tray and is laughing, she is wearing a teal jumper.
Clients and volunteers of the befriending service

To keep up to date with the Befriending Service and Age UK Calderdale and Kirklees, please visit their website, and their Facebook page.

Volunteer of the Month – June 2025

Posted on by Aimee Webb

Volunteer of the month is when we get to shout about our amazing volunteers and the, quite literally, life changing work they do to help Fresh Futures run smoothly and effectively.

This month we would like to say a big THANK YOU to Faatimah who is a Telephone Befriender. We caught up with Faatimah to hear about her Fresh Futures volunteering journey so far…

Tell us a bit about yourself:

As a small business owner, I promote kindness and mental health through various activities. I’ve created my own activity book and have many different hobbies, including reading and baking.

I love learning new things and challenging myself to step outside my comfort zone.

How long have you been volunteering for Fresh Futures?

I’ve been volunteering for three years.

Explain your volunteering role:

As a telephone befriending volunteer I call people who may be lonely and need a friend. I have befriended 6 people in my time at Fresh Futures.

What made you want to start volunteering with Fresh Futures?

I was searching for a volunteer opportunity where I could give my time, and Fresh Futures was the perfect fit.

I believe in ambition, drive, and the kindness of everyone, and these qualities make volunteering at Fresh Futures a genuinely enjoyable experience.

What is a typical day of volunteering for you?

My typical day involves giving up an hour of my time to people who need it, by giving them a call!

And finally, what advice would you give to people considering volunteering with Fresh Futures?

I would highly recommend volunteering with Fresh Futures to anyone considering it. Volunteering has a profound impact on people’s lives, including your own.

It’s incredibly rewarding and fulfilling, so you absolutely must give it a try!

Bright, cheerful poster for ‘Fresh Futures’ announcing its ‘Volunteer of the Month.’ A central photo, tilted playfully, shows a volunteer dressed in full firefighter gear standing part-way up an outdoor ladder, arms raised triumphantly against a blue-sky backdrop. Around the photo are cartoon clouds, curved yellow shapes and a small gold-trophy icon. Large white headline text reads ‘Volunteer of the Month.’ Beneath the picture, a speech-bubble panel displays the volunteer’s name in bold red letters, and a yellow tag below notes their role as ‘Telephone Befriender.’
Volunteer of the Month June 2025 – Faatimah

If you feel inspired to become a volunteer like Faatimah, or if you would like to volunteer in any way for our charity, please contact Lucy on 01484 519988 or [email protected]

Volunteer of the Month – May 2025

Posted on by Aimee Webb

Volunteer of the month is when we get to shout about our amazing volunteers and the, quite literally, life changing work they do to help Fresh Futures run smoothly and effectively.

This month we would like to say a big THANK YOU to Lawrence who volunteers as a Community Friend. We caught up with Lawrence to hear about his Fresh Futures volunteering journey so far…

Tell us a bit about yourself!

I am a Scouser but have lived in the Huddersfield area since the 1980s. I am now retired and used to be a University lecturer in Manchester.

In the 80s and 90s I worked in the NHS for Huddersfield Health Authority.

How long have you been volunteering for Fresh Futures?

I have been volunteering for about 18 months for this charity and another local one.

Tell us more about your volunteering role:

My role is a very simple but enjoyable one which consists of visiting an elderly man who lives locally. We have a chat of an hour every week.

What’s a typical day volunteering like for you?

Its only an hour and we talk about where the conversation leads. The guy I have befriended is very interested in how Huddersfield is trying to survive as a town and follows the local news far better than I.

We talk a lot about the past and for instance, how public transport now seems so advanced, especially when you think of Huddersfield trams , branch railway lines and even trolley buses.

What made you want to start volunteering with Fresh Futures?

I wanted to give back a little in my retirement and do voluntary work, I am a bit chatty myself so doing a befriending role seemed ideal!

I am also interested in history so talking and listening to someone in their 90s about the local history of Huddersfield and surrounding towns is fascinating .

And finally, what advice would you give to people considering volunteering at Fresh Futures?

Try it out and be open to listening about the past and experiences of someone who has led a long and happy life.

The role can be very important to someone who may not get lots of visitors in a typical day or week. 

Lawrence Benson, a smiling bald man wearing glasses, is named Volunteer of the Month by Fresh Futures. The background includes playful cloud graphics and a gold trophy icon. His role is listed as Community Friend.
Volunteer of the Month – Lawrence

If you feel inspired to become a volunteer like Lawrence, or if you would like to volunteer in any way for our charity, please contact Lucy on 01484 519988 or [email protected]

Celebrating National Teacher Appreciation Day at Brian Jackson College

Posted on by Aimee Webb

Today is National Teacher Appreciation Day, and at Fresh Futures, we’re taking a moment to shine a light on the remarkable team at Brian Jackson College, our alternative education provision.

A group of people cooking in a communal kitchen setting. In the foreground, a woman is peeling mushrooms over a metal bowl, while others are busy with food preparation along a counter lined with ingredients and utensils. A mirror reflects the activity, and posters and kitchen supplies are visible in the background.
Food technology at Brian Jackson College

At Brian Jackson College, our staff do so much more than deliver lessons — they create safe, supportive, and inspiring environments for young people with social, emotional, and mental health needs. Their work is transformative, sometimes challenging, and always deeply impactful.

Two people sit in a relaxed setting on black cushioned chairs. One person, a young man in a black hoodie and shorts, appears quiet and thoughtful. The other person, an adult with visible tattoos and glasses, is speaking and gesturing with one hand. A scenic photograph of a wooden dock over water with mountains in the background hangs on the wall behind them.
Staff and students at Brian Jackson College

On this special day, Jacqui Green, Headteacher at Brian Jackson College, shared a heartfelt message of gratitude:

“On this National Teachers’ Day, I want to extend my deepest gratitude and admiration for the unwavering dedication, compassion, and resilience you bring to your work every single day.
Supporting young people with SEMH needs requires not just skill and expertise, but an immense amount of patience, understanding, and kindness. You are more than teachers—you are mentors, advocates, and champions of hope. You provide stability where there is uncertainty, encouragement where there is doubt, and a safe haven where there is struggle. Your presence and perseverance make an immeasurable impact, shaping lives in ways that may not always be visible but are always deeply felt.

Please remember that your efforts are seen, valued, and appreciated. Every breakthrough, no matter how small, is a victory. Every moment of connection you foster is a step toward a brighter future for the young people in your care.

Today, and every day, we celebrate you—your commitment, your passion, and the difference you make in the lives of those who need you most.
Thank you for all that you do.”

Three individuals in a workshop setting engaged in a hands-on activity. One adult, wearing a beanie and overalls, appears to be instructing or demonstrating something to two teenage boys. One boy is wearing a blue sports jersey and apron, while the other, in safety goggles and a blue hoodie, looks on attentively. Various tools, wooden pieces, and copper piping displays are visible in the background.
The construction workshop at Brian Jackson College

We are incredibly proud of the work being done every day at Brian Jackson College. The staff are not only changing lives — they are opening doors to brighter futures.

To all our educators: we see you, we thank you, and today, we celebrate you!

Back in the Ring: A Comeback Fuelled by Purpose

Posted on by Aimee Webb

On the 12th of April, Holly stepped into the boxing ring to raise funds and awareness for Fresh Futures as part of an Ultra White Collar Boxing Event in Huddersfield.

Holly managed to raise an amazing £1,218.75 and we are very grateful for her support towards the work we do at the charity!

Holly (in the red) during her boxing match

After seven years out of the ring, Holly made her return – not for titles or trophies, but to stand behind a cause she truly believes in. In the lead-up to the event, she dedicated herself to eight intense weeks of training to make sure she was ready when fight day came.

On the day of the event, Holly was nervous but felt ready, all thanks to the training and support of those around her. Holly didn’t win her fight, but for her, it was never about the victory—it was about proving something to herself, and she did exactly that.

the picture shows a boxing ring, next to the near ring side are the two fighters, two women, one of them wears blue gear and is leaning to the right to avoid a punch, the other woman in red is throwing a punch to her head. There is a man who is the referee looks on from the left of the fighters. There is a white banner that reads UWCB.
Holly (in the red) during her boxing match

Holly says: “We raised money. We raised awareness. And we reminded people that every effort, even after setbacks, can still create impact. I didn’t get the win on the scorecards, but I gained something much more valuable — a sense of what I’m capable of, and a reminder of the community that stood behind me.”

Well done Holly!

If you would be interested in supporting Fresh Futures in ANY way, please contact us at [email protected], we would love to hear from you!

Teeing Up for a Good Cause: Crosland Heath Ladies Raise £2,800 for Fresh Futures!

Posted on by Aimee Webb

Fresh Futures was honoured to be chosen as the Charity of the Year for 2024–2025 by Gail Harris, Lady Captain of Crosland Heath Golf Club in Huddersfield. Over the year, Gail and the ladies of the club raised an incredible £2,800 through a variety of fundraising events, including fashion shows, raffles, golf tournaments, and sale stalls, to name just a few.

Two women smiling and embracing each other warmly. The woman on the left has short grey hair and is wearing a colourful patterned dress. The woman on the right has blonde hair, is wearing a green and white patterned dress, and is holding a notepad with writing on it. They are standing indoors, in front of a window and a cabinet.
The ladies at Crosland Heath during their fundraising
Four women standing together on a golf course, smiling at the camera. They are dressed in sporty golf attire, with a golf cart visible in the background. The setting is lush and green with trees and grass surrounding them, and the atmosphere appears cheerful and relaxed.
The ladies at Crosland Heath during their fundraising

Gail Harris shared with us:

“I am delighted to have been able to support the work done by Fresh Futures to help individuals and families in West Yorkshire.
Many of the members of Crosland Heath Golf Club are generous in giving their time as well as money to raise funds for local good causes.
Throughout the last year we have held several fun golf events, raffles, a prize draw, an open house with afternoon tea, second hand clothes sales, book sales, donated Christmas presents and held a very successful Fashion Show.
I wish you continued good luck in raising funds to maintain the excellent services Fresh Futures provides in West Yorkshire.”

Five women standing indoors, wearing medals around their necks and holding gift bags, smiling proudly at the camera. They are dressed in casual and sporty outfits, suggesting a celebratory event, possibly after a golf tournament. Another woman is seated in the background near a window, observing the scene. The room is bright with natural light coming through large windows and columns decorating the space.
The ladies at Crosland Heath during their fundraising

Aimee Webb, Income and Engagement Officer at Fresh Futures added:

“It has been a pleasure to work with Gail and the ladies at Crosland Heath over the past year, we have had lots of fun attending and hearing about the events they have put on to raise funds for Fresh Futures.

We are very grateful for the money they have raised that will help us continue to support disadvantaged families and young people in the Kirklees area.”

A group of women stand smiling at the camera, they are stood in front of two display cabinets of trophies. Two women at the front hold a big cheque that reads £2,800 being donated.
The cheque handover at Crosland Heath Golf Club

If your golf club might be interested in choosing to support Fresh Futures as Gail has, or supporting Fresh Futures in ANY way, please get in touch with us at [email protected].

Volunteer of the Month – April 2025

Posted on by Aimee Webb

Volunteer of the month is when we get to shout about our amazing volunteers and the, quite literally, life changing work they do to help Fresh Futures run smoothly and effectively.

This month we would like to say a big THANK YOU to Laura who volunteers during our family time sessions. We caught up with Laura to hear about her Fresh Futures volunteering journey so far…

Tell us a bit about yourself!

I work at Netherton preschool Monday to Friday and volunteer for family time on alternative Saturdays. I have two children, a son who will be starting high school and a daughter who will be starting junior school this September.

Helping others is in my nature and something I really enjoy doing. You can find me on my day off standing on the football field cheering on my son’s team or enjoying a bottomless brunch, catching up with friends. I also aim to reach 10,000 steps a day and have managed to loose 3 stone since Christmas!

How long have you been volunteering for the charity?

I first started volunteering for Fresh Futures in 2020 when it was called the Yorkshire Children’s Centre. I first started doing community contact (befriending) then I moved on to family time. For a while I enjoyed both, however now I only volunteer for the family time which I enjoy.

Tell us more about your volunteering role:

I help support families to progress and rebuild positive relationships.

What’s a typical day volunteering like for you?

I’m usually the first one in the building & one of the last ones out (by choice)! Most days can be busy however the staff and other volunteers makes it more enjoyable as they are a pleasure to be around. They’re like family!

What made you want to start volunteering with Fresh Futures?

In 2020 just before lockdown I found myself in a very confused place. I was a stay home single mum and needed a focus!

And finally, what advice would you give to people considering volunteering at Fresh Futures?

DO IT!

If something isn’t for you there’s always other roles you can try 😊 and everyone I have met here are lovely!

A bright and cheerful graphic celebrating the 'Volunteer of the Month' from Fresh Futures. The top of the image includes the Fresh Futures logo with the tagline 'Improving lives, inspiring change'. In the center is a photo of a smiling woman, identified as Laura Cumiskey, with a speech bubble beneath her photo displaying her name. A yellow label below reads 'Core Volunteer'. The background is a warm orange with playful cloud and trophy illustrations, creating a joyful and uplifting tone.

If you feel inspired to become a volunteer like Laura, or if you would like to volunteer in any way for our charity, please contact Lucy on 01484 519988 or [email protected]

Exciting Spring Events for Families Hosted by Fresh Futures!

Posted on by Aimee Webb

Spring is here, and what better way to celebrate than with a fantastic line up of fun and educational events for families? Fresh Futures, a charity dedicated to supporting children, young people and their families, is hosting an array of exciting activities throughout Spring. From creative play sessions to a special Baby Boutique sale, there’s something for everyone!

A Spring Full of Fun and Learning

Fresh Futures has carefully designed these events to engage young children, encourage creativity, and provide valuable experiences for families at an accessible cost. Whether you’re looking for a hands-on sensory play session, a heartwarming storytelling event, or even a chance to capture precious family moments, there’s an event for you.

Two young children, a boy and a girl, are sitting on lush green grass during an Easter egg hunt. The boy, wearing a plaid shirt and brown pants, is reaching into a white woven basket while the girl, dressed in a pink shirt and patterned leggings, is holding a blue basket. Colorful plastic eggs, some open and some closed, are scattered around them. Another empty basket and a small hand are visible in the background, indicating more participants in the activity.
Easter fun

Here’s what’s coming up:

Thursday 17th April, 10:00-12:00,

Under 5s Easter Party

Come along to our EGGstra special Easter party, a multi-activity event including games, egg decorating, music, and much more! Perfect for celebrating Easter with your little one.

Price: £5 per child with one accompanying adult. £2 per additional accompanying adult

Wednesday 23rd April, 30-minute slots available from 08:00-17:00,

Me & My Family Mini-Photoshoot

A professional photoshoot session, including digital prints that will be delivered in plenty of time for them to be developed into the perfect Father’s Day gifts!

Professional 30-minute, private photoshoot with Fly On The Wall Photographer. Limited slots available.

Price: £35 per session – includes digital prints sent directly to your email!

Wednesday 14th May, 10:00-11:00,

Springtime Sensory Play

Fun, themed sensory stations for your little one to explore! Including lights, music, bubbles, and more to spark curiosity and creativity! Plus a handprint station for a cherished keepsake.

Price: £5 per child with one accompanying adult. £2 per additional accompanying adult

Tuesday 27th May, 10:00-11:00,

Storytime & Free Books

Bring your little one and their favourite teddy for a super storytelling session that will peak their imagination. Our readers will host group session reads, or children can explore the vast range of books by themselves or with you. What’s more, every child will be gifted a bag of books to enjoy at home, worth over the ticket price!

Price: £5 per child with one accompanying adult. £2 per additional accompanying adult

A colourful poster titled "Spring Events" features a bright, cheerful design with a smiling sun illustration and decorative yellow flowers. The poster details four upcoming events organized by Fresh Futures for young children and their families: Under 5s Easter Party (17 April, 10 AM - 12 PM, £5) - A fun-filled Easter celebration with games, egg decorating, music, and more. The event is represented with an image of two young children wearing bunny ears and holding Easter eggs. Me & My Family Mini-Photoshoots (23 April, Pre-booking required, £35) - A professional 30-minute photo session by "Fly On The Wall Photographer," including digital prints, perfect for Father's Day gifts. The accompanying image shows a mother lovingly holding her baby. Springtime Sensory Play (14 May, 10 AM - 11 AM, £5) - A sensory play session with themed stations featuring lights, music, bubbles, and a handprint keepsake. The image shows a young child playing with sensory materials. Storytime & Free Books (27 May, 10 AM - 11 AM, £5) - A storytelling session where children can bring their favourite teddy and receive a bag of books worth over £5. The image shows a woman reading a story to a group of young children. At the bottom, a red banner displays Fresh Futures' contact details, website, and charity registration number. The text encourages booking through their website or via email and phone
Spring Events at Fresh Futures

Why You Should Get Involved

These events aren’t just about fun—they provide incredible developmental benefits for young children, including boosting imagination, improving social skills, and enhancing sensory exploration. Plus, they offer families the chance to connect with the community and make local connections.

How to Book

Call 01484 519988 (option 5 for reception) and a member of staff will be able to make the booking and take payment. Or you can visit Brian Jackson House and pay in person.