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Author: Aimee Webb

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

Saturday 17th May, Doors open 10AM!

Baby Boutique Spring Sale

A chance to shop for OR sell, new or nearly-new baby essentials.

BUY – Discover amazing bargains on like-new baby essentials at our Spring Baby Boutique Sale! Entry is just £2 per adult.

SELL – Turn your pre-loved and unused baby items into cash! Book a stall for just £20 today (includes one long table or £5 extra on the day for additional tables).

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.


Fresh Futures Unveils State of the Art Cinema Room – Now Available for Hire!

Posted on by Aimee Webb

Fresh Futures is thrilled to announce the arrival of an incredible new addition to our facilities at Brian Jackson House in central Huddersfield – a state-of-the-art cinema room, generously donated to support our mission.

This exciting new space is now available for hire, providing a premium viewing experience right in the heart of Huddersfield. Whether you’re looking to host a company event, a private party, a film screening, or gather friends to watch a major sporting event, our cinema offers the perfect venue.

A cosy indoor setting where a group of children and a few adults are watching an animated movie projected onto a large screen. The room is decorated for Christmas, with a Christmas tree adorned with lights and ornaments, a Santa Claus decoration on the door, and a banner hanging on the wall. Some children are sitting on colourful foam mats on the floor, sipping from paper cups, while a few adults sit on chairs in the background. The atmosphere is warm and festive, with dim lighting and a relaxed, communal feel.
The cinema room at Brian Jackson House

A high quality viewing experience

Designed to deliver an immersive and high-quality experience, our new cinema room boasts cutting-edge surround sound, ensuring that every scene and every note is crisp and clear. Coupled with blackout blinds that create the perfect environment for movie magic, this space is designed to rival the experience of a professional cinema while offering a more intimate and customizable setting.

From blockbuster movies to corporate presentations, our venue can be tailored to suit a variety of needs. The high-tech setup makes it an excellent choice for everything from training sessions and product launches to family celebrations and community gatherings.

The perfect venue for every occasion

Our newly installed cinema is a versatile space that caters to a wide range of events, including:

  • Corporate Events & Presentations – Impress your clients and colleagues with a professional yet comfortable space for meetings, training, or showcasing your latest projects.
  • Private Film Screenings – Enjoy a private screening of your favourite movies with friends and family in a cinema-quality environment.
  • Key Sporting Events – Experience the thrill of major sporting events on the big screen with immersive sound, making you feel like you’re right in the heart of the action.
  • Birthday Parties & Celebrations – Create a unique and unforgettable experience by hosting a movie night for a birthday, anniversary, or other special occasion.
  • Community & Charity Events – Bring people together for fundraising events, educational screenings, or local film showcases in a welcoming and engaging space.

Convenient location and accessibility

Fresh Futures is conveniently located in central Huddersfield, making it an easily accessible venue for visitors from across the region. Situated near key public transport links and with car parking available nearby, our location ensures that guests can arrive with ease.

Our building is fully accessible, and we are committed to providing an inclusive environment for all visitors. Whether you’re planning a small, intimate gathering or a larger-scale event, our team is on hand to assist with arrangements to ensure everything runs smoothly.

A lively indoor gathering with children and adults in a decorated room. A woman stands at the front, gesturing towards a large projector screen displaying an image of space, while an audience of seated children and adults listens. Some children are standing and engaging with the presenter. The room is adorned with Christmas decorations, including a Christmas tree, candy cane wall art, and a Santa Grinch mural. There are tables with food and drinks, and the atmosphere appears warm and interactive.
The cinema room at Brian Jackson House

Supporting Fresh Futures’ Mission

By hiring our cinema space, you’re not just securing a fantastic venue — you’re also directly supporting the work we do at Fresh Futures. As a charitable organisation dedicated to providing opportunities and support for disadvantaged children, young people and their families, every booking contributes to sustaining and expanding our valuable programmes.

Your event at Fresh Futures helps us continue our mission, making a difference in the lives of those we support. Whether it’s education, employability initiatives, or community projects, your contribution plays a part in fostering positive change.

Mark Farmer, Fresh Futures Chief Executive, says: “We were delighted to have this room donated to us and we’re pleased to be able to offer it for hire for events.  Every penny donated will be directed to our charitable services support children, young people and families from across the region.”

Book your cinema experience today

If you’re looking for a unique and high-quality venue for your next event, Fresh Futures’ cinema room is the perfect choice. Our team is available to discuss your requirements, provide a tour of the facilities, and help tailor the space to suit your needs.

For more information on pricing, availability, and how to book, please contact us at [email protected]. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to make your next event truly unforgettable with the magic of cinema at Fresh Futures!

Whether it’s an intimate gathering, a corporate function, or a community event, our newly installed cinema offers an exceptional space to bring people together for entertainment, engagement, and inspiration. Book today and be part of something special at Fresh Futures!

Volunteer Of The Month – March 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 Karen who is a Community Friend. We caught up with Karen to hear about his Fresh Futures volunteering journey so far…

Tell us a bit about yourself!

I work as an admin assistant which I love. I have recently gone back to college to do math’s GCSE! I love spending time with family and friends.

Tell us more about your volunteering role:

My befriending role involves me visiting my friend most weeks and I ring her a couple of times a week for a catch up.

How long have you been volunteering for the charity?

I have been a befriender for about 11 years. I have also done some reading groups in a care home setting, helped out at the centre with events and delivered gifts at Christmas.

What’s a typical day volunteering like for you?

I’ll generally ring my friend on a Monday night and might call with a sandwich one day. She is 93 and loves a good chin wag!

What made you want to start volunteering with Fresh Futures?

I worked in Brighouse Sainsburys and we did some work collecting Christmas gifts for the elderly people who visited a rest centre. Most were on their own and the small gifts were so appreciated. The difference it made really made me want to help where I could!

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

It’s so rewarding, you can make such a difference by giving just an hour a week. I would advise anyone to do it, I have made some lovely friends over the years.

A digital graphic features a 'Volunteer of the Month' recognition for Karen Tippett, a core volunteer with Fresh Futures. The design has a bright orange background with playful cloud and swirl illustrations. At the top, the Fresh Futures logo is displayed alongside the tagline 'Improving lives, inspiring change.' The main focus is a cutout-style photo of Karen Tippett, a woman with dark hair and glasses, sitting beside an elderly woman with short white hair, both smiling warmly in a cozy home setting. A speech bubble contains Karen’s name, and below it, a yellow tag marks her role as 'Core Volunteer.' A small trophy icon is included as a symbol of recognition

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

Local MP Visits Fresh Futures’ Post-16 Provision

Posted on by Aimee Webb

On Friday 14th February, Iqbal Mohamed, MP for Dewsbury and Batley, visited the newly opened Brian Jackson College Post-16 Provision in Heckmondwike. The visit provided an opportunity for Mr Mohamed to meet with both teachers and students at the College, which opened its doors in October 2024. 

During the visit, he was presented with a hand carved box containing scrolls written by the students about their personal journeys and why the Post-16 is making a difference in their lives and their ambitions for the future.

A group of professionally dressed individuals, smiling at the camera, in a classroom setting.
Iqbal Mohamed and staff from Brian Jackson College

The Post-16 Provision has received overwhelmingly positive feedback since it opened, and the support from the local MP further reinforces the value provided to the students, their families, and the wider community.

Designed to offer a tailored educational experience for students aged 16-18, the provision aims to align with each individual’s unique interests, needs, and future aspirations.

The college offers students the opportunity to gain vocational qualifications alongside crucial life skills and work experience, enabling them to take their next step on their pathway towards adulthood. The highly trained staff, passionate about their fields, bring a wealth of knowledge to the students.

A group of people in a workshop, one man in overall explains something, gesturing to a car part, with two students and another man watching.
The mechanics workshop at Brian Jackson College

Additionally, the provision provides onsite access to essential support services, including counselling, career advice from external specialists, and enrichment sessions that give students a taste of the working world.

Iqbal Mohamed reflected during the visit:

“Firstly, I just want to say a massive thank you to the staff, and to Rhys and Kieran for their invitation, I experienced a brilliant warm welcome, and tour around. Staff are doing doing a fantastic and amazing job that changes lives for all these young adults – it’s incredible, thank you very much!

Being prepared for life can be daunting and complicated, but if you stay grounded and focus on being the best human you can be, you’ll acquire many important skills along the way. There are others facing the same or even more difficult challenges, so never hesitate to seek help and always be ready to offer help to others.

Make the most of every opportunity that comes your way, and when something is offered to you, take it with both hands!”

A blue pool table, two people are playing with one person leant over the table, taking a shot while the other person watches them
Iqbal playing pool with a Brian Jackson College student

Mark Farmer, Chief Executive, continued

“Everyone at Fresh Futures is exceptionally proud of our new Post-16 offering.  We offer holistic support and a safe space to young people who would struggle to thrive in a more traditional education environment. By providing vocational qualifications as well as building life skills and confidence, we are giving the young people who attend our provision the stepping stones they need to move on towards a positive destination that is right for them.”

This inspiring visit highlights the importance of the Brian Jackson College Post-16 Provision in shaping the future of young people in the local area and Fresh Futures is excited to continue on our journey of developing our support for young people in the future.

Fresh Futures Gains Incredible Support from Local Café – Here’s How You Can Get Involved

Posted on by Aimee Webb

Unity Yard Café at Holmfirth

Unity Yard, an arty café based in Holmfirth, has been supporting Fresh Futures since the end of 2024. The café supports over 140 local artists and makers, selling art; plants; gifts; clothes and more in their café. You can find them on Facebook and Instagram.

Comfy sofas and chairs that customers can sit on whilst they visit Unity Yard Café
The seating area at Unity Yard
A member of the Unity Yard team posing with a cup of coffee by the till in the Unity Yard Café
The inside of Unity Yard

The café has kindly supported the charity over the festive period by selling our very own Christmas Cards that were designed by students that attend Brian Jackson College during their art classes.

Unity Yard also have a Fresh Futures collection tub, collecting funds that goes towards supporting disadvantaged children, young people and their families. Fresh Futures looks forward to continuing this partnership into 2025 and beyond!

A member of the Unity Yard team has also given up their own time to volunteer as a Community Friend during the pandemic in 2020, making a weekly phone call to her matched friend every week for years to follow.

Interested in Volunteering:

If you would be interested in volunteering in Huddersfield or Batley, for a limited time we are running three Community Friend training sessions to the public!

Sessions at Brian Jackson House, Huddersfield will be taking place on:  

  • Wednesday 26 February, 9:30-11:30
  • Thursday 27 February, 17:00-18:30

And at Jo Cox House, Batley:

  • Wednesday 12 March, 10:00-12:00

After the session, the final steps will be completed including a DBS check and a short application, so you’ll be fully ready to start befriending and make a real difference!

For more information, please contact us today [email protected]!

a poster depicting the dates for volunteer training in Huddersfield and Batley.

Can You Offer Our Post-16 Students a Work Placement?

Posted on by Aimee Webb

Within Fresh Futures, we operate three alternative education provision colleges for students who do not thrive in mainstream education.

The colleges are in Huddersfield and Heckmondwike, with the Heckmondwike provision housing the first post-16 centre that was opened in October 2024.

Our post-16 provision is designed to provide a bespoke educational experience that aligns with each student’s unique interests, needs and aspirations for the future.

Highly knowledgeable staff, alongside offering on-site counselling and career advice, aid in ensuring students are ready for work by the end of their time with us.

A teacher is helping a student complete a sheet of work.
Student studying at Brian Jackson Post-16 College

Sam, the Construction Teacher at the post-16 provision, said “I am passionate about ensuring young people are knowledgeable and prepared to work in the industry”.

What is offered at the post-16 provision currently?

The curriculum is designed to equip students with practical skills across different fields while ensuring they have a solid foundation in essential academic subjects like Maths and English.

By offering vocational courses such as hairdressing, construction, and food technology, we cover a variety of interests, giving students the flexibility to focus on their strengths and career aspirations.

How can you help?

To enrich the students learning further, we are keen to provide work placement opportunities for the students.

Work placements can really help bridge the gap between theory and practice, giving students the chance to develop hands-on skills in a professional environment.

We are currently looking for work placements in the following settings:

Car Garages

Students interested in motor vehicle maintenance can get hands-on experience with vehicle repairs and customer service.

Building Suppliers

Those pursuing construction skills could gain insight into materials, logistics, and supply chain management in the building industry.

Care Homes

Students interested in healthcare or care work would get exposure to patient care, hygiene practices, and the day-to-day operations in a care setting.

Shops, Food Banks

These placements could teach students about customer service, stock management, and community support roles.

Restaurants, Cafes

Ideal for those studying food technology so they can learn about food preparation, safety standards, and the service industry.

Schools, Nurseries

Perfect for students interested in education, childcare, and social care, helping them gain experience working with children and learning support.

National Highways

Students interested in infrastructure or construction can work on large-scale projects related to roads and transport.

Pharmacies, Medical Centres, Dental Care

Students pursuing healthcare or medicine could get valuable experience in patient interaction, administration, and basic medical practices.

One student is sat on a chair in front of a mirror, whilst another student stands behind and dry's her hair with a hairdryer.
Student in the hair and beauty classroom at Brian Jackson Post-16 College
An organized workshop with a long workbench, mounted tools, safety gear, and a cement mixer in front, supported by stacks of bricks and blocks
The construction classroom at Brian Jackson Post-16 College

If I take on a student, what can I expect?

Throughout the placement we will ensure that students are supported while also gaining invaluable experience in a real-world setting. Having regular contact from a staff member is key to addressing any questions or concerns you or the student might have, making the experience more enriching.

You would not be required to pay the students as you’re helping prioritise learning and development.

This is a fantastic opportunity for local businesses and organisations to get involved in supporting the community and helping young people build their careers.

If you can support our post-16 students or you have you a new placement opportunity please do get in touch with Lauren Barber-Harrison on [email protected] or call 01924 408 306.

Volunteer Of The Month – January 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 Christine who volunteers as a Community Friend. We caught up with Christine to hear about her Fresh Futures volunteering journey so far…

Tell us a bit about yourself: I am a retired violin teacher and still love to make music with my friends in chamber groups; love watching tennis and used to do marathon swims. I have a very caring and supportive partner.

How long have you been volunteering for the charity: I have been visiting my friend since January 2024. I regard my role as a friend, listener and sometimes a comforter.

Tell us about a typical day in your role: I visit my friend once a week and usually stay for about an hour and a half.

What made you want to start volunteering with Fresh Futures? I saw an advert on the tele asking for volunteers for Age UK, and it led me to being put in touch with Brian Jackson House.

And finally, what advice would you give to people considering volunteering with Fresh Futures? My advice is just be yourself and be a good listener.

A poster with 'Volunteer of the Month' at the top, with hands pointing up below. Then a picture of people walking away in the park is below these.
Volunteer of the Month

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