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Author: Lynne Haigh

Volunteer of the Month: February 2025

Posted on by Lynne Haigh

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 Zach who volunteers for Elevate. We caught up with Zach to hear about his Fresh Futures volunteering journey so far…

Tell us a little about yourself: I’m 6’3 and I like to think I’m a little funny

How long have you been volunteering for the charity: I’ve been volunteering since the start of October 2024.   

Explain your volunteering role: I help out wherever I’m needed and I help run the elevate sessions. 

What made you want to start volunteering with Fresh Futures? I’d been coming to sessions myself and wanted to try something new.

Sum up a typical day of volunteering for you: I turn up a little earlier than everyone else to help set up the session. I greet people as they enter the room and then we play some kind of game, normally its Uno no mercy but other times we do arts and crafts or we just have conversations.  

And finally, what advice would you give to people considering volunteering with Futures? It’s about more than yourself, it’s about everyone around you

A poster that says Volunteer of the Month at the top, with some hands reaching up below the title. Under these is a picture of 3 people stood next to a building looking at the camera.

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

Fresh Futures Golf Day – Join Us For A Great Cause!

Posted on by Lynne Haigh

Fresh Futures, a local charity based in Huddersfield, is excited to announce our upcoming Golf Day on Friday 11th July 2025 at the stunning Meltham Golf Club! Known for its beautiful fairways, scenic views, and excellent course conditions, it’s the perfect setting for a fantastic day of golf, networking, and fundraising. Sign up here!

We’re inviting local businesses to book a team and take part in this special event. There are also sponsorship opportunities available, allowing you to promote your brand while directly supporting our vital work with disadvantaged children, young people, and families across Kirklees.

Promotional poster with a QR code to sign up a team for the Golf Day.
Register using the QR code
A promotional poster with sponsorship opportunities at the Golf Day.
Sponsorship Opportunities

The day will begin with delicious breakfast butties on arrival, setting you up for a great round of golf. After an enjoyable day on the course, players can look forward to a hearty meal and a chance to celebrate together. There will also be fantastic prizes on offer, making the competition even more exciting!

Katie Shephard, Head of Income and Engagement at Fresh Futures, shared her enthusiasm: “We’re so excited to be hosting this event at the beautiful Meltham Golf Club. It promises to be a fantastic day, and we can’t wait to welcome teams, sponsors, and supporters. It’s a brilliant opportunity for local businesses to come together, enjoy some great golf, and make a real difference in our community. We hope as many companies as possible will get involved, whether by booking a team or exploring sponsorship opportunities.”

Every penny raised from the event will go towards our mission of empowering young people and their families, ensuring they have access to the opportunities and support they need to thrive.

Whether you’re an experienced golfer or just looking for a fun day out, this is a great way to give back while enjoying a memorable event. Sign up today and help us drive change—one swing at a time!

For team bookings, sponsorship details, or more information, please get in touch with us at [email protected]. 

Let’s make this an unforgettable day for a fantastic cause!

Fresh Futures Fair – open call for stall holders!

Posted on by Lynne Haigh

Do you create or sell artisan products and want to reach a fresh audience and widen your reach? If so, Fresh Futures wants to hear from you!

On Saturday 7th June, Fresh Futures – a Huddersfield based charity – is running a Craft Fair at its head office in central Huddersfield. The craft fair will be part of a wider family fun day, with children’s entertainment as well as food and drink vendors available onsite.

a poster that says Fresh Futures Fair, 7th June 2025 with 3 images of knitting, wreath crafting and pottery.

Fresh Futures is looking for local traders and businesses who would like to host a stand at the event.

Katie Shephard, Head of Income and Engagement, says “We’re excited to be hosting the first ever Fresh Futures Fair this June. We’re hoping it will be a great event for everyone to attend with unique shopping opportunities, combined with entertainment for kids and food and drink vendors attending. The best part is that every penny raised at the event will be directed towards our work supporting vulnerable and disadvantaged children, young people and their families, from across the region.” 

Established in 1974, Fresh Futures is a regional charity that supports vulnerable and disadvantaged children and young people, and their families, within Kirklees and surrounding areas.  The vision is for all children and young people to have opportunities for a better life, now and in the future. To find out more about the charity and how you can support its work, visit https://freshfutures.org.uk/corporate-partnerships/

Interested in hosting a stand at the event? Find out more by emailing Katie Shephard on [email protected]. Places are limited and offered on a first come, first served basis.

A poster that calls for stall holders at the fair, email katie.shephard@freshfutures.org.uk for details.

Celebrating 50 Years Of Fresh Futures

Posted on by Lynne Haigh

Fresh Futures, previously Yorkshire Children’s Centre, is a regional charity supporting disadvantaged children, young people and their families in our community. The charity was first set up by Brian Jackson, who was passionate about improving the quality of childcare in the Kirklees area, resulting in the creation of the National Children’s Centre, the charity’s name when it was launched. Since then, it’s services have expanded and diversified to support more groups in the community through four strands of work; education; health & wellbeing; employability & skills and relationships.

A lively outdoor community event on a grassy field, with families and children enjoying activities. A colourful double-decker bus, a white camper van, and a green tent with bunting are visible, along with people sitting on blankets and strolling around. Traditional stone houses surround the scene
A black-and-white photograph of smiling children running towards the camera in front of a decorated double-decker bus with playful illustrations. More children are visible in the background near the bus, which appears to be part of a community event
Photos from Fresh Futures over the years
A colourful and engaging early learning classroom with children playing on the floor with toy trains and blocks. Two adults are working on a craft project at a table. The room is decorated with educational posters, learning materials, and playful decorations

In 2024, Fresh Futures celebrated its 50th anniversary, marking the occasion in various ways, including Brian Jackson House playing host to the Kirklees Top 100 companies event held in June, the launch of a Patron scheme to enable corporates to pledge their support and a World Record attempt – to have the largest collection of erasers!

A group of smartly dressed people, posing and smiling at the camera, in front of a silver and black balloon arch.
Kirklees Top 100 Event hosted by Fresh Futures

Fresh Futures also celebrated many of those involved with the charity, through their 50 faces of Fresh Futures campaign, interviewing those who work for, volunteer for or support the charity throughout Kirklees.

In 2025, we continue to be keen to hear stories from anyone who may have worked for the charity or used any of the services over the last 50 years. Please email [email protected] if you’d like to share your story.

Lucy Jackson, daughter of Brian Jackson, is now a trustee of the charity and shared some memories the family have of her father and the charity. She said: “About 2 or 3 years ago I noticed on social media that there was a sponsored walk from my dad’s charity. Over the years since his death in 1983 I had attended irregular events of the charity, but this felt like an opportunity to chat with some of the staff. I went on the walk with two of my adult children, really enjoyed chatting to everyone about where the charity now was. Since then I’ve been delighted to join the board of Trustees and it’s wonderful to see first how my father’s legacy continues to thrive.”

Other members of the family shared how “it was wonderful to visit recently and see children and parents playing happily together at Brian Jackson House” Fresh Futures don’t boast about what they do – but it’s noticed when parents need their help.”

Brian Jackson’s youngest son, Seth who works for Strange Thoughts, a Patron of the charity. Believes, “It’s lasted, it’s evolved and it’s still making a difference!”.

A word cloud including the words inclusive, unique, heard, remarkable, crucial, families, adventurous, seen, warmth and perseverance.
A word cloud to show how people describe Fresh Futures

With many exciting fundraising activities planned for 2025, Fresh Futures will continue to support children and families in the Kirklees area most in need.

Fundraising can take many forms, visit our Fundraising page HERE for some inspiration. If you would be interested in fundraising for Fresh Futures, please contact the team to find out their plans or suggest your own at [email protected]

Fresh Futures Nominated for Charitable Excellence Award at Yorkshire Choice Awards 2025!

Posted on by Lynne Haigh

We are excited to announce that Fresh Futures has been nominated for the Charitable Excellence Award at the Yorkshire Choice Awards 2025! This incredible recognition is a testament to the dedication, passion, and hard work of the Fresh Futures team over the past year.

Founded by Joanne Maltby and Melanie Malcolm, the Yorkshire Choice Awards celebrate the achievements of inspiring local people and businesses in Yorkshire, recognising their efforts to make a positive impact in their communities. Through adversity and courage, these awards shine a spotlight on individuals and organisations whose efforts truly deserve recognition.

In 2022, Fresh Futures was honoured to be the runner-up in the COVID Heroes Award, highlighting the collective efforts of our team during a challenging time. This year, we’re back in the spotlight, nominated for the Charitable Excellence Award, which was introduced in 2024 to recognise organisations excelling in charity work. The award celebrates not just charitable acts but also innovation, commitment, and the difference made in local communities.

For Fresh Futures, winning the award in 2025 would be a monumental achievement. It would celebrate over 50 years of charitable service and the tremendous impact we’ve had on children, young people, and families in Kirklees.

Katie Shephard, Head of Income and Engagement, shared: “We’re absolutely thrilled to have been nominated for such a prestigious award. The team works incredibly hard throughout the year, and we’re grateful to have our work recognised. We’re all excited for the ceremony and appreciate the support from everyone who believes in the work we do!”

How You Can Help: We need your vote to help us win! It only takes a few seconds, and your vote could make all the difference. Here’s how you can vote for Fresh Futures:

  1. CLICK HERE or visit Yorkshire Choice Awards Voting Page.
  2. Scroll down and click ‘CLICK HERE TO CAST YOUR VOTE’.
  3. In the ‘CHARITABLE EXCELLENCE AWARD’ category, select Fresh Futures from the drop-down box.
  4. Scroll to the bottom, enter your email address, and click ‘SUBMIT’.

The public vote is crucial, so please share this link with your friends and family to help us secure as many votes as possible. Your support could help us shine a light on the heart and spirit of Fresh Futures!

Thank you for being part of this journey with us. Together, we’re making a difference!

#YCA2025

Volunteer Of The month – December 2024

Posted on by Lynne Haigh

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 Michael who volunteers as a Community Friend. We caught up with Michael to hear about his Fresh Futures volunteering journey so far…

Tell us a bit about yourself: I’m a bus driver and a cancer survivor. Now that I’m cured, I want to give back to the community. I never like to think of someone being on their own, so I’m doing what I can to make a difference.

How long have you been volunteering for the charity: I signed up over a year ago, but I had to take a break during my cancer treatment.

Tell us about a typical day in your role: It’s a joy to visit my two friends – they make my life feel whole just as much as I do for them. It’s really a two-way thing. Some days, I’ll think I can’t be bothered, but the moment I get there, I feel completely different. They’re both awesome people, and they help me as much as I help them.

There are so many rewards to being a befriender – more than I ever realised. Even on days when I wake up feeling off, just talking to my friends, and hearing their life stories makes everything better.

What made you want to start volunteering with Fresh Futures? I wanted to give something back to the community and help improve people’s lives.

And finally, what advice would you give to people considering volunteering with Fresh Futures? I’d recommend befriending to anyone. It’s one of the best things you can do, and the support from the team at the office makes it even better. They make sure you’re matched with the right people, which means a lot.

When I delivered Christmas presents, so many people wanted to stop and talk, and that really touched me. There are so many lonely people out there, and we don’t always realize it. Now I’ve got two friends for life, and it’s been an amazing experience for everyone involved.

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

Empowering Futures: How Fresh Futures’ Employability Program Helped Libbie Build Her Dream Career

Posted on by Lynne Haigh

Finding a fulfilling career can be daunting, especially when lacking confidence and direction. For Libbie, a beauty enthusiast with a passion for beauty therapy, the path forward wasn’t clear. Unsure of how to turn her interest into a career, she turned to Fresh Futures’ Employability Program.

With their guidance, Libbie transformed her passion into a thriving business, Pampered Perfection. Libbie first heard about Fresh Futures’ program through her family. She was unsure of her future, expecting to end up on a different path entirely.

Although she initially expected a formal, classroom-style experience, she was delighted to find an open and friendly environment where her confidence began to grow.

One of Libbie’s biggest initial challenges was overcoming her social anxiety. Nervous around new people and hesitant to speak up, she discovered that the program’s supportive mentors and peers helped her feel more comfortable.

By the end, she had built both friendships and professional connections. “The program gave me so much more confidence,” she recalls.

As she explored career options, Libbie’s passion for working in the beauty industry resurfaced. She received guidance through research assignments, networking sessions, and industry insights from the Fresh Futures team, who helped her see her dream as achievable.

“The best part was having someone to guide me on what to look for and how to get there. I wouldn’t be where I am now without them,” she says.

With this newfound confidence, Libbie took the leap. She began advertising beauty services from home, eventually moving into a professional salon setup in Marsden to meet growing demand.

Today, Libbie owns Pampered Perfection, a beauty business specializing in eyelash extensions and eyebrow treatments, with a loyal clientele and stellar reviews.

A collage of six images, showcasing a treatment room with a black bed, a neon blue sign that says dream surrounded by foliage, a treatment room with a black bed with blue LED lighting, a table with a plant and reed diffuser, shelves with reed diffusers and treatment equipment and the final picture has a white desk again with treatment equipment on.
The interior of Pampered Perfection

Libbie encourages young adults to consider the Employability Program: “If you’re introverted like I was, just go for it. The informal environment makes it easy to build confidence and could completely change how you see yourself.”

For those inspired by Libbie’s journey, follow her business on social media:

• Instagram: @pampered_perfection_

• Facebook: @PamperedPerfection

A side-by-side 'Before' and 'After' comparison of an eyebrow transformation. The 'Before' image at the top shows a person's eyebrow area with sparse, light-colored brows. The 'After' image at the bottom showcases the same eyebrow area with fuller, well-defined, and neatly shaped eyebrow. The background has a textured silver-grey design, and the words 'Before' and 'After' are written in stylish black cursive font in the respective corners of each image.
One of the treatments at Pampered Perfection
A close-up, angled view of a person's eye, showcasing freshly done eyelash extensions and well-groomed eyebrows. The eyelashes appear long, voluminous, and slightly curled, enhancing the eye's appearance. The eyebrow is neatly shaped with natural-looking hairs. The image is taken at an angle that emphasizes the eye's features.
One of the clients at Pampered Projection

Volunteer Of The Month: November 2024

Posted on by Lynne Haigh

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 Janet who volunteers as a Community Friend. We caught up with Janet to hear about her Fresh Futures volunteering journey so far…

Tell us a bit about yourself: I’m in my 60’s just about to officially become a pensioner-eek. I’ve been married to Greg for 45 years this month, we have 4 children and 7 grandchildren and our little dog Poppy. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, going out for meals, walking, swimming, reading and baking.

How long have you been volunteering for the charity: Since 2020, I started telephone befriending during lockdown.

Tell us about a typical day in your role: I had 2 ladies who now are personal friends, one I visit every week and the other I speak to on the phone every week. My 3rd lady I visit on a weekly basis with my dog. So it can be a chat with a cuppa or a bit of a walk if she’s well enough. . I usually spend a couple of hours with each one of them. They keep me entertained and I just love spending time with them.

What made you want to start volunteering with Fresh Futures? I’ve always worked and volunteered around younger people from when my own children were tiny, but when my Dad developed dementia I realised that there was a big gap in respect of time given to elderly people, who I came to realise through the situation with my Dad also desperately needed stimulation, time and support. When my Dad passed away in 2017, followed by my mother in law in 2018 something was missing, that link with the older generation. I luckily saw an advert on Facebook for telephone volunteers and as I’m very sociable person and love to chat I thought it would be perfect for me. I knew I could free up a few hours a week to do this as we all now know people were terribly isolated during lockdown.

And finally, what advice would you give to people considering volunteering with Fresh Futures? Go for it. It is so rewarding if you are matched with the right person. It has enriched my life so much and I’m sure it will yours.

A poster that says volunteer of the month at the top, under the title is 4 different coloured hands stretching up, then underneath is a picture of a woman holding a drink and smiling at the camera.
Janet Sheard – Volunteer of the Month

If you feel inspired to become a volunteer like Janet, 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 – October 2024

Posted on by Lynne Haigh

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 Alan who volunteers as a Community Friend. We caught up with Alan to hear about his Fresh Futures volunteering journey so far…

Tell us a bit about yourself:

My name is Alan Moore, I was widowed in 1995 so I have some understanding of the effects losing someone close has. I am a retired engineer working for local company, Thomas Broadbent.

Tell us about a typical day in your role: 

My usual volunteering day is a visit to the gym trying to keep fit, home for lunch then off to my friend to help him pass the afternoon.

What made you want to start volunteering with Fresh Futures? 

I was looking for something rewarding, worthwhile and fulfilling to help pass some of the spare time I now have.

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

 For anyone thinking about volunteering, I would say DO IT. It gives me purpose to my visiting days and I get a lot out of our friendship. So much so that I am looking at trying to find another opportunity.

The image says volunteer of the month at the top, under this title is 4 coloured hands stretched up, below these is a selfie style picture of a man standing in front of a bush, looking at the camera.
Alan Moore – Volunteer of the Month

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

Fresh Futures Open the Doors of the Brian Jackson College post-16 provision

Posted on by Lynne Haigh

Fresh Futures proudly operates two alternative provision colleges that offer a safe haven for students who’ve found that mainstream education isn’t the right fit and may be facing exclusion.

Located in Huddersfield and Heckmondwike, our colleges are dedicated to supporting pupils with social, emotional, and mental health challenges, giving them the tools they need to succeed. 

We’re absolutely delighted to have launched our very first post-16 provision in Heckmondwike at the end of October! At Brian Jackson College, our mission is simple: to create a nurturing, motivating environment where every student can flourish.

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

Jenny Netherwood, Head of Post-16 commented:

“I am delighted to introduce myself as the Head of the brand-new Post 16 provision at Heckmondwike. The provision will have an official opening later this term and staff are busily preparing for the arrival of the first ever set of learners!”

What Can You Expect from Our Post-16 Vocational Hub? 

Our vocational hub offers an exciting range of opportunities. Every student is assigned a personal tutor who they’ll meet with daily, ensuring they always have the support they need.

The College boasts large, welcoming spaces to both study and socialise, creating a genuine sense of community. Our staff, highly trained in their respective fields, are passionate about sharing their knowledge.

Plus, we offer on-site access to counselling, career advice from external specialists, and enrichment sessions that provide a real taste of the working world. 

Here’s a glimpse at the courses available at our post-16 vocational hub: 

  • Hairdressing 
  • Barbering 
  • Employability skills 
  • Construction 
  • Food technology 
  • Motor vehicle maintenance 
  • And of course, all courses include essential Maths and English! 

What Will Students Achieve with Us? 

By the end of their time at Brian Jackson College, students will: 

  • Secure a positive destination—whether that’s employment, further education, or training 
  • Have had their individual needs fully addressed to ensure success 
  • Gain accredited certificates that demonstrate their knowledge and skills 
  • Achieve qualifications in Maths and English (Functional Skills or GCSEs) 
  • Complete entry-level SFLE through enriching experiences 

A Chat with Michael Winder – Our Enthusiastic Car Mechanics Teacher 

We recently caught up with Michael Winder, our passionate car mechanics teacher, to hear more about his journey: 

“At the College, my classroom is a high-octane mix of jokes, hands-on projects, and the occasional misplaced socket wrench. My ADHD means every lesson feels like an adventure—one minute you’re learning about engine timing, and the next we are in a conversation about how tanks are just really big cars with better paint jobs. Dyslexia? No problem. When the textbook gets confusing, I throw it aside and says, “Let’s make our own manual!”

I am excited for this next chapter at the post-16 offering and can’t wait to find my next exciting project—probably trying to fit a jet engine onto a go-kart, with a cup of coffee in hand, of course.”