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The Quiet Crisis   As the days grow shorter, the arrival of the autumn and winter months provides a poignant moment for reflection. The change in seasons often amplifies the emotional undertones of our lives, making this an opportune time to address an issue that touches us all, yet is often…

We welcome in October this weekend, a month that offers an amazing array of awareness events and meaningful campaigns.   International Day of Older Persons (1st October) kicks off the month. Each year on this date, people across the world mark this day to raise awareness of opportunities and…

We are delighted to announce that Communities 1st has been awarded the prestigious Matrix Standard Quality Mark accreditation, the quality standard for organisations delivering Information, Advice, and Guidance (IAG) services. The accreditation serves as a robust endorsement of our commitment to…

In the blink of an eye, we’re almost at the end of September. This month has brought us so many awareness campaigns and we’re looking forward to what October has in store for us.    Two campaigns happening throughout next week are focussed on positive experiences of the working environment.    …

Welcome to our Volunteer Centre newsletter. As we are heading in to Autumn and the back to school season has come, perhaps you have some spare time and  are looking to try something different. You don't need to go to school to learn something new! Take a look at our volunteering…

Looking for healthy cooking methods? If you can cook healthy with low fat, preserve nutrients, and save money, why not learn to cook with an Air Fryer. We have an interesting and fun cooking session with an Air Fryer. Learn to cook with one, add new recipes and learn about the cost…

Time flies so quickly! We already find ourselves in the middle of September.  This coming week once again introduces community campaigns that aim to raise awareness on issues that affect the lives of so many. National Eye Health Week (NEHW) will take place from 18th-24th September, …

We hope you've enjoyed the recent sunny weather as much as we have! The UK has been truly spoilt with sunshine lately. Just remember to keep hydrated and take some shade when needed. Quick note - the ‘Action for Happiness’ calendar is featuring in this month's newsletter, perfectly timed for…

We hope you've enjoyed the recent sunny weather as much as we have! The UK has been truly spoilt with sunshine lately. Just remember to keep hydrated and take some shade when needed. Quick note - the ‘Action for Happiness’ calendar is featuring in this month's newsletter, perfectly timed for…

The Unseen Backbone: Why Local Voluntary Infrastructure Deserves More than a Passing Glance   In recent times there has, rightly so, been a predominant focus on supporting 'front-line' work in the charity sector. This is highly understandable; it is where the immediacy of need appears most palpable…

September is packed with very so many meaningful awareness campaigns! It is going to be a very busy month! This coming week brings campaigns that aim to raise awareness on issues that, unfortunately, affect the lives of many in our communities.   National Pension Awareness Week 2023 (11th-15th…

Tomorrow is the start of Self Care September.  We are aware of how much you give to the community and next month is a time for you to reflect on how to look after yourself.  The Action for Happiness have produced a calendar with a simple idea for every day to help you reflect, to remind yourself…

A Critical Look at the NHS Volunteer Responders Scheme and its Impact on Local Charities   The recent NHS Volunteer Responders (VR) social care seminar has left many of us questioning the efficacy and ethics of this top-down programme. It is certainly a subject that ignites passionate debate among…

We are heading rapidly towards the end of August and in a sense, summer itself will soon be over. Whether or not you follow the academic year, the end of “the holidays” is usually accompanied by a feeling of back to "normality". But we’re not going to say goodbye to the summer just yet! In this…

Welcome to our Volunteer Centre newsletter. Volunteers are the backbone of our community, providing essential support to organisations and community groups in our local areas. People and organisations in our community still need your help and we continue to be busy responding to their needs. The…

Our free Creative Fun with Numbers offer fun, creative and engaging activities for families during the summer holidays. The previous sessions have been a huge success, so we are pleased to announce more dates for your diary. We’re so pleased to offer these opportunities for you and your kids to…

Although many people are away on their summer holidays we at Communities 1st, with your help, are continuing to support many individuals.  Whether it is making regular phone calls to help individuals feel less isolated, driving our minibuses to take less mobile people shopping or assisting those…

The Domino Effect of the Cost of Living Crisis: A Spotlight on Charities and Vulnerable Communities   In an era where "cost of living" has skyrocketed, its far-reaching implications for the most vulnerable among us and the organisations designed to help them cannot be overstated. This crisis has…

This week's newsletter is packed with ideas on new events for kids and help and support for families.        In 2 weeks' time Communities 1st will be hosting a stand at the Fun in The Park events (12pm - 3pm). On Monday 21st August we will be in Potters Bar, on Tuesday 23rd in Borehamwood, and…

Welcome to our Volunteer Centre newsletter. We are grateful for the ongoing support of volunteers, constituting the backbone of our communities. Volunteering for all the fantastic organisations and community groups in the local areas. This week, we held a pop-up Volunteer Centre at…