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Taking the Leap: Abseiling for a Brighter Future in Kirklees

abseilers 2026
Posted on by Rahel Abegas

Stepping over the edge of a 77-metre tower is not something most people would call a normal day—but for seven incredible individuals, it was all part of making a difference.

Recently, a group of brave fundraisers took on the ultimate challenge: abseiling down the iconic Wainhouse Tower in Halifax. Known as the tallest folly in the world, the tower stands at a towering 77 metres high, making it a daunting climb up—and an even more exhilarating descent down.

Together, these seven adventurers raised an incredible £1,500.

That’s £1,500 that will go directly towards supporting disadvantaged children, young people, and families across Kirklees.

Making a Real Impact

At Fresh Futures, we know that behind every donation is an opportunity to change a life. The funds raised from this challenge will help provide vital support—whether that’s through mentoring, youth services, wellbeing support, or creating safe spaces for young people to grow and thrive.

For many of the individuals and families we support, access to the right help at the right time can make all the difference. Fundraising events like this ensure we can continue delivering that support where it’s needed most.

Thank You

To our incredible abseilers: thank you for your courage.
To everyone who donated and supported: thank you for your generosity.

You’ve helped us continue our mission of supporting children, families, and young people across Kirklees—and for that, we are truly grateful.

Watch the video below to see how the day went! 🎥 Video produced by Rupert Cooke at Ai Sight Creative

🌸 Fresh Futures Spring Raffle 2026

Posted on by Rahel Abegas

This spring, Fresh Futures was delighted to bring our community together through our Spring Raffle 2026 — and what a success it has been!

Over the past few weeks, we’ve seen an incredible response from supporters across Kirklees and beyond. From purchasing tickets to sharing our posts and engaging with us online, every action helped make this raffle a truly special event.

🎉 Congratulations to Our Winners!

We are thrilled to announce our lucky winners:

1st place spring raffle winner - Amy Robins
Amy Robins at 1st place
2nd place spring raffle winner - Peter Shaw
Peter Shaw at 2nd place
3rd place spring raffle winner - Noah Quirke
Noah Quirke at 3rd place
  • 🥇 1st Place: Winner of our beautiful Spring Hamper, filled with a variety of seasonal gifts
  • 🥈 2nd Place: Winner of our indulgent Chocolate Hamper, packed with favourite treats
  • 🥉 3rd Place: Winner of vouchers for CoffeeEvolution, Haigh’s Farm, and Bolster Moor Farm

A huge congratulations to all our winners — we hope you enjoy your prizes!

💛 A Heartfelt Thank You

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of this raffle:

  • 🙌 Our generous local businesses and donors, who kindly provided the fantastic prizes
  • 🎟️ Everyone who purchased tickets, helping to support our work
  • 🌟 Those who followed, shared, and engaged with us across social media
  • 💛 And everyone who chose to give an additional donation, helping us go even further

Your support directly helps Fresh Futures continue delivering vital services and opportunities for children, young people, and families across our community.

🌱 The Impact Behind the Fun

While the raffle brought excitement and a bit of friendly competition, it also represents something much bigger. Every ticket sold and every donation received contributes to the ongoing work we do — supporting wellbeing, creating opportunities, and helping people thrive.

👀 What’s Next?

If you missed out this time, don’t worry — this is just the beginning!

We’re excited to share that more Spring Raffles will be coming in the future, along with other opportunities to get involved, support our work, and perhaps win some fantastic prizes along the way.

💐 Thank you once again for being part of our Spring Raffle 2026.
Your generosity, enthusiasm, and community spirit made it all possible.

Stay connected with Fresh Futures for updates, events, and future opportunities to get involved — we can’t wait to do it all again!

Fresh Futures’ Spring Volunteer 2026

Posted on by Aimee Webb

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 spring we would like to say a big THANK YOU to Lois who is a Stay and Play Volunteer. We caught up with Lois to hear about her Fresh Futures volunteering journey so far…

Tell us a bit about yourself!

I am Lois, I am a stay and play volunteer at Fresh Futures. I am a kind, caring and compassionate individual who loves working with children.

How long have you been volunteering for Fresh Futures?

I have been volunteering with Fresh Futures for over two years.

Tell us about your volunteering role:

I help setting up the play area for the children who attend stay and play as well as preparing meals for the parents and children.

What made you want to start volunteering at Fresh Futures?

I have always loved working with children. It gives me a sense of purpose and accomplishment, volunteering at stay and play gives me this.

Explain what a typical day of volunteering is for you:

I help set up the room for the stay and play, then I socialise with the children and parents, as well as making them food and drinks. I feel fulfilled!

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

Fresh Futures is a great place to volunteer and grow as a person. They make you feel valued and appreciated.

If you feel inspired to become a volunteer like Lois, or if you would like to volunteer in any way for Fresh Futures, please contact Aimee on 01484 519988 or [email protected]

Fresh Futures Launches Every Birthday Counts Campaign to Support Children Across Kirklees

Posted on by Aimee Webb

Fresh Futures mission is for all children, young people and their families to have opportunities for a better life, now and in the future. The charity is delighted to announce the launch of it’s Every Birthday Counts campaign, a heartfelt initiative ensuring that children and young people across Kirklees can experience the joy of receiving a birthday gift, regardless of their circumstances.

Following the overwhelming generosity shown during our Christmas Toy Appeal last year, which received an exceptional number of donations of toys and gifts, we are now able to extend support throughout the year. Thanks to this kindness from local businesses and the community, Fresh Futures can now offer birthday gifts to children and young people aged 0–18 years who may otherwise go without.

The image shows a promotional poster for the Every Birthday Counts Campaign, the poster identifies that if you need help with a birthday gift for your child, Fresh Futures can help. The poster is very colourful and includes cartoon graphics of presents and bunting.
Every Birthday Counts Poster

The Every Birthday Counts campaign provides age‑appropriate birthday gifts to families facing financial challenges. We are encouraging professionals and community partners to help spread the word so that support reaches those who need it most. Thanks to the generosity of UK Greetings, Fresh Futures is also offering age appropriate cards and gifts to families to give to their children and loved one.

Katie Shephard, Head of Income and Engagement, says

“ I am thrilled to be able to launch this new project to support families across Kirklees. At Fresh Futures, we know that this is a challenging period with fuel and petrol prices likely to continue to increase, leading to additional pressure on family budgets. We are delighted to be able to offer year round support to families who need us and I’d urge all families who need to access the project to get in touch as soon as possible to secure a gift for their child. We are here to help.”

How Families Can Access Support

Families who would like to request a gift for their child or young person can access the appeal in two ways:

  • 1. Email Fresh Futures directly: Please contact [email protected] to request birthday gift support.
  • Through Families Together Navigators at the Kirklees Family Hubs: Families can also speak with their Families Together Navigator, who can help make a referral on their behalf.

It is important to note that:

  •  There is a two‑week turnaround from the point of referral to the delivery of birthday gifts.
  • Gifts are limited and will be allocated on a first‑come, first‑served basis. This project will only run as long as we have gifts available.

Fresh Futures extends its gratitude to all supporters and donors who help make this campaign possible. Together, we can ensure that Every Birthday Counts for children across our community.

For any further details or enquiries, please email:
📧 [email protected]

Spotlight on Fresh Futures: Our Rangoli Radio Feature

Mark Farmer (CEO) & Katie Shephard (head of Income and partnerships) for Fresh Futures featuring on Rangoli radio, show presented by Rashik Parmar & Hari Joshi
Posted on by Rahel Abegas
Mark Farmer (CEO) & Katie Shephard (head of Income and partnerships) for Fresh Futures featuring on Rangoli radio, show presented by Rashik Parmar & Hari Joshi

Last week, we had the pleasure of joining Rangoli Radio to talk all about Fresh Futures, our mission, and the work that were doing to support children and young people across Kirklees – and how our partnerships are helping to create brighter futures for the next generation.

Hosted by Rashik Parmar and Hari Joshi, the interview featured our CEO, Mark Farmer, and Head of Income & Partnerships, Katie Shephard, who shared the heart behind Fresh Futures, the challenges young people face today, and the opportunities that can transform their lives.

During the discussion, Mark spoke about the significance behind our name — and how it reflects our purpose.

“Really, that name sums up what we do. We are here to give a fresh future… it’s all about opportunities and fresh futures.”

— Mark Farmer, CEO

Fresh Futures exists to ensure every child and young person has the chance to succeed, no matter their background or obstacles they may face. Whether through education, mentoring, wellbeing support, or community partnerships, our work centres on opening doors and creating pathways to brighter outcomes.

“If (people) can do more, they should do more. That’s why we exist.” added Mark.

Katie shared powerful insights about the role our teams play in supporting young people — not only academically, but holistically.

“Our colleges are wonderful at providing a holistic wraparound support for our young people… we’re not just teachers. We really support them, build their confidence, give them life skills, and give them the ability to thrive in the real world.”
— Katie Shephard, Head of Income & Partnerships

This whole‑person approach is central to our work. Many young people need more than lessons; they need encouragement, stability, and the belief that they can succeed. Our staff and partners work tirelessly to offer exactly that.

Our conversation with Rangoli Radio highlighted just how much can be achieved when communities come together with a shared vision — a vision of opportunity, hope, and positive change.

If you missed the live broadcast, you can listen to the full conversation here:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sLKJzN9GCzLb-mGINJJ14P-mPJUyLV9J/view

A big thank you to Rangoli Radio for shining a ‘spotlight’ on Fresh Futures. We look forward to building more partnerships like this in the future.

Supporting Positive Destinations: Introducing Our New Work Wardrobe

Posted on by Aimee Webb

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.”

Two people stand inside a bespoke tailor shop with warm wooden interiors. A man in a tweed jacket and tie holds a black garment bag branded “Owen Scott Bespoke Tailor,” while a woman in a cream knit sweater and dark jeans stands beside him, smiling. Behind them are shelves neatly stacked with folded shirts and a wall sign reading “Owen Scott Bespoke Tailor,” with mirrors and tailoring displays visible in the background.Two people stand inside a bespoke tailor shop with warm wooden interiors. A man in a tweed jacket and tie holds a black garment bag branded “Owen Scott Bespoke Tailor,” while a woman in a cream knit sweater and dark jeans stands beside him, smiling. Behind them are shelves neatly stacked with folded shirts and a wall sign reading “Owen Scott Bespoke Tailor,” with mirrors and tailoring displays visible in the background.
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!

Contact Us

Fresh Futures’ Winter Volunteer 2025

Posted on by Aimee Webb

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]

Birkby Junior School Fundraises £187 for Fresh Futures!

Posted on by Aimee Webb

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. “

Two women stand smiling indoors as one hands the other a cheque. They are in front of a colourful classroom display featuring a painted tropical house scene with written notes around it. One woman wears a white cardigan and grey trousers, and the other wears a black leather jacket over a floral dress. They appear to be marking a donation or presentation moment in a cheerful school setting.
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].

Fresh Futures’ Autumn Volunteer 2025

Posted on by Aimee Webb

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.

A volunteer spotlight graphic for Fresh Futures. The background is orange with autumn leaves and pumpkins. At the top, it says “Fresh Futures – Improving lives, inspiring change.” In large white text it reads “Autumn Volunteer 2025.” Below, there is a smiling young woman with curly hair, wearing a dark top. Her name, “Charlotte Adams-Stone,” is written in bold red text inside a white speech bubble shape decorated with leaves. Underneath, it says “Graphic Design Volunteer".
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]

Fresh Futures: Brushing Up on Oral Health

Titled community impact in action with a cartoon figure brushing their teeth, on a light purple background underneath Fresh Futures logo
Posted on by Lucy Martin

Fresh Futures focuses on providing support for disadvantaged and vulnerable children and young people. That’s why we were thrilled to receive funding from Public Health to deliver a new Oral Health campaign for children.

Since February 2025, Fresh Futures has distributed over 1,000 toothbrush and toothpaste packs through community events and partner organisations. Our Community Champions have attended more than 16 local sessions, from stay-and-play groups to coffee mornings, creating welcoming opportunities to talk about oral health.

By working alongside other charities, early years settings, and local networks, we’ve extended our reach and impact, ensuring more families have the knowledge and tools to protect their children’s teeth.

Our approach combines practical support with accessible education. Champions use engaging resources, like a giant teeth board where children “brush away” coloured-in plaque, to show the benefits of brushing for the full two minutes.

Parents receive tailored advice, guidance on registering with dental practices accepting new patients, and help overcoming barriers such as waiting lists, inconvenient appointment times, or uncertainty about the importance of check-ups.

To reinforce these messages at home, we’ve distributed 100 copies of To Be a Star, a storybook designed to help under-fives understand and enjoy daily brushing. Shared through early years groups, libraries, and community sessions, it’s proving a powerful tool to help children build lifelong habits.

Mark Farmer, Chief Executive, at Fresh Futures says:

“We’re incredibly proud to have shared such important oral health messages with children across Kirklees. By working hand-in-hand with local partners and empowering our Community Champions, we’ve been able to deliver these messages in a way that truly resonates , the project has been powerful, practical, and centred around the real needs of families. At the heart of this project is a simple goal: giving every child the best start in life with a healthy smile.”

The impact of the project has been tangible and Fresh Futures noted:

  • Greater awareness and confidence among parents to support their children’s oral health.
  • Early intervention reducing the likelihood of preventable dental issues.
  • Reduced stigma by delivering information in trusted, informal spaces.
  • A bridge between knowing and doing, families leave with both the understanding and the resources to act immediately.

As one Champion put it: “Seeing children get excited about brushing, and helping families find a dentist, is incredibly rewarding. The change starts small, but it lasts a lifetime.”

If you would like to get in touch with the team, please email on [email protected] or call us on 01484 415465.