At Fresh Futures, the ambition is clear: every young person who graduates from the provision should move on to a positive destination. What that looks like can vary significantly depending on individual needs, strengths and aspirations. For some young people, the right next step may be further education or training, while for others it may be securing employment. Fresh Futures’ role is to provide tailored support that helps each young person move forward with confidence and purpose.
One barrier we identified for many of the learners was the interview process. Interviews can be an intimidating experience, particularly for young people who may lack confidence or have limited experience in professional settings. Fresh Futures’ know that feeling comfortable and confident in how you present yourself can make a real difference, so began exploring ways to offer more practical support.
As a result, Fresh Futures is proud to be developing an onsite ‘work wardrobe’ at our post-16 education provision. This will allow young people to access appropriate, smart outfits for interviews and work placements, helping to remove financial barriers and boost self-confidence at a crucial moment.
To bring this idea to life, we contacted Owen Scott, a bespoke tailors based in central Huddersfield. They immediately understood the purpose and impact of the appeal and were keen to help. Owen Scott generously donated a range of high-quality items, including full suits, waistcoats, shirts and shoes – all carefully selected to be suitable for interviews and professional settings.
Scott, owner of Owen Scott, said: “As a local business, we believe strongly in supporting young people in our community. When Fresh Futures approached us, it was clear how much of a difference this initiative could make. Something as simple as the right outfit can completely change how someone feels walking into an interview.”
Receiving the donation from Owen Scott
Mark Farmer, Chief Executive of Fresh Futures, added: “This donation will have a lasting impact on our young people. The work wardrobe is about more than clothes – it’s about confidence, dignity and helping young people believe in their own potential. We’re incredibly grateful to Owen Scott for their generosity and support.”
Get Involved
Fresh Futures is now inviting other local businesses and organisations to support this initiative by donating suitable interview clothing or making a contribution towards expanding the work wardrobe. Whether it’s clothing, footwear or financial support, every donation helps us ensure young people feel prepared, confident and valued as they take their next steps.
If your business would like to get involved and make a real difference to young people in our community, contact us using the button below!
Volunteer of the season 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 Winter we would like to say a big THANK YOU to Phil who is a Core Volunteer. We caught up with Phil to hear about his Fresh Futures volunteering journey so far…
Tell us a bit about yourself!
I am 78 yrs old and have lived in the Holme Valley for approximately 35 years! I trained as a Social Worker and worked in this field for over 50 years, initially with all age groups and circumstances but later with children and families. I have four adult children and four grandchildren. I have varied interests including gardening, walking, exercise, football and studying. I like to keep active and still hope I can still provide some useful roles hence my volunteering activities!
How long have you been volunteering for Fresh Futures?
I started volunteering after Covid, in early 2022.
Tell us about your volunteering role:
I joined the charity volunteering for the Community Friend service. This service has since ended although I am still in touch with the friends I made. Now, my role varies from supporting the charity during events, covering reception, and also helping to spread the word about Fresh Futures through leaflet drops and having conversations within the community about their services.
What made you want to start volunteering at Fresh Futures?
In the early stages of the Covid pandemic, I received information on the Community Friend service at Fresh Futures, I initially had telephone contact, due to the restrictions on movement, but over the years I have been linked with four friends, three of whom I still have regular contact with! I felt that it was important to assist others who were struggling in various ways, and also it provided myself with beneficial experiences!
And finally, what advice would you give to people considering volunteering at Fresh Futures?
I would support anyone who wanted to give it a try! I have no hesitation in recommending Fresh Futures as a place to volunteer, I have always felt welcome here! I would always say be open and upfront with what your interests and needs are, don’t be afraid to say no – they don’t mind!! I have always embraced the volunteering opportunities at Fresh Futures.
If you feel inspired to become a volunteer like Phil, or if you would like to volunteer in any way for our charity, please contact Lucy on 01484 519988 or [email protected]
Year 5 students from Birkby Junior School showed incredible community spirit last summer by fundraising for Fresh Futures and their school’s own food bank.
The pupils decided to sell ice pops during break times, a choice that couldn’t have been better timed, as their sale days coincided with some of the hottest days of the year! Their efforts paid off, raising an impressive £187 for Fresh Futures!
On Monday 10th November, a member of Fresh Futures’ Income and Engagement Team attended the Year 3 and 5 assembly to receive the cheque and talk to students about the work Fresh Futures does in the local community. They also shared how the donation will help support children and families throughout the charity’s various projects and services, including their Christmas campaigns.
Aimee Webb, Income and Engagement Officer, said
“It was wonderful to visit Birkby Junior School this week to receive the cheque and thank the students in person for their amazing fundraising. Their donation will help us support local families through our festive campaigns. “
Cheque Handover at Birkby Junior School
A huge thank you to all those in Year 5 at Birkby Junior School for your amazing fundraising efforts and support for Fresh Futures!
If your school would also like to support Fresh Futures, please email us at [email protected].
Volunteer of the season 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 Autumn we would like to say a big THANK YOU to Charlotte who is a Graphic Design Volunteer. We caught up with Charlotte to hear about her Fresh Futures volunteering journey so far…
Tell us a bit about yourself!
Hi, my name is Charlotte, I love all things creative and aspire to get into a creative role within the film industry!
How long have you been volunteering for Fresh Futures?
I’ve had the privilege of volunteering as a graphic designer for Fresh Futures for around a year!
Tell us about your volunteering role:
I have been working on the Fresh Futures recipe book, in collaboration with Brian Jackson College and the Income and Engagement team at Fresh Futures. The book will soon be available to purchase through donations!
What made you want to start volunteering at Fresh Futures?
It gave me the opportunity to challenge myself to do new things, I’ve never designed a recipe book before! I’ve had the privilege of networking with lots of helpful and supportive staff at Fresh Futures.
What’s a typical day volunteering like for you?
A typical day for me comes with lots of creativity and problem solving to make sure the design is done the best it can be!
And finally, what advice would you give to people considering volunteering at Fresh Futures?
My only advice would be to get involved! You never know what new experiences you will have, the tools you will learn, and you’ll be helping other people along the way which is the best reward.
Autumn Volunteer 2025 – Charlotte Adams-Stone
If you feel inspired to become a volunteer like Charlotte, or if you would like to volunteer in any way for our charity, please contact Lucy on 01484 519988 or [email protected]
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:
Fancy taking on this challenge next year? Email us at [email protected] today!
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!!
Volunteer of the Month June 2025 – Ruby Chadwick
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]
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 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.
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 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!
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 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.
Volunteer of the Month May 2025 – Lawrence Benson
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]
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.
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.
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.”
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!
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