Fantastic Friday Update

We hope you had a wonderful Easter. Welcome back to our little corner where we share with you exciting events and training courses for the coming weeks!

As spring continues to bloom, we would like to remind you the two important focus of April: Stress Awareness Month and Autism Awareness Month. It's a time to prioritize our well-being and foster greater understanding within our community.

At Communities 1st, we're here to support you on both fronts. Our training courses offer opportunities for personal growth and skill development, which can contribute to managing stress and building confidence. Furthermore, our various events, like Men that Meet or Creative Cafe aim to create welcoming spaces that foster connection and understanding within our diverse community. Let's end this a month with a positive note of kindness, learning, and well-being for all.

Wishing you a wonderful weekend!

Best wishes

Nicola O'Neill
Wellbeing Services Manager

Communities 1st Events

Join us at one of our Creative Community Cafes

Whether you’re into any creative hobby, our weekly Creative Community Cafe sessions are the perfect place to meet like-minded individuals, share your passion, make new friends and enjoy free refreshments. Our friendly staff and volunteers can also signpost you to other sources of support and advice.

We provide some basic supplies, but encourage you to bring your own projects and materials to work on. Feel free to bring friends or family members who are interested in crafting—the more, the merrier!

Locations, days and times:

Aberford Community Centre: Wednesdays, 12pm - 4pm

Bushey Library: Thursdays, 10am - 2pm

Farriers Way Community Centre: Thursdays, 10am - 2pm

Organ Hall Community Centre: Fridays, 10am - 2pm

Phillimore Community Centre: Tuesdays, 12pm - 4pm and Thursdays, 10am - 2pm

Windsor Hall: Mondays and Tuesdays, 10am - 2pm

For more information, click the button below, call us on 01727 649970 or email welcome@communities1st.org.uk

More information

E-visa support

At Communities 1st, we understand that some people will need extra support to get their visa online. That’s why our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way.

Whether you have questions about the process, need help with documentation, or want to understand the new procedures, we’re here to guide you with the resources you need to transfer with confidence.

All you have to do is call us or simply stop by one of the hubs below, and we’ll be ready to assist you with a smile!

Our Leeming Road Borehamwood Hub is open every day of the week, Monday to Friday from 9:30am - 3:45pm.
Our St Albans Civic Centre Hub is open Friday morning from 9am - 12pm.

Appointments are also available via Microsoft Teams at any time during office hours.

For information call us on 01727 649930 or email help@communities1st.org.uk.

More information

Men that Meet

Men That Meet is an inclusive, welcoming group for men of all ages and backgrounds, offering a supportive space to socialise, connect, and improve mental wellbeing.

Join a welcoming, laid-back group where you’re free to take part in a variety of engaging activities, from lively discussions and games to hands-on workshops and inspiring guest talks. With no commitment required, you can pop in whenever it works for you! Held in an easy to access venue, making it easy to connect, unwind, and enjoy good company.

When: Tuesdays, 1.30pm - 4pm
Where: Windsor Hall, Blyth Close, Borehamwood, WD6 4EE

For information call us on 01727 649930 or email help@communities1st.org.uk.

More information

Training and Community Learning

Death, Dying and Loss Awareness

Join us for an introduction awareness session for staff & volunteers in the voluntary sector, Healthcare staff and the public on how to be better at talking about death, dying and loss.

The session will be a look at several topics including: Why don’t we talk about death?; What a good death is for yourself?; Communication techniques; Empathy vs Sympathy; some the Theories of loss and What to do & say. It will also explore the social context of death and dying, considering the impact on good end-of-life care and bereavement support.

Please note this is an online session on Zoom and is being delivered by Alison May, Community Engagement Manager, Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care.

When: Monday 12 May, 2pm - 3.30pm

To book your place contact us at 01727649960 or email training@communities1st.org.uk

Register now

Women and Gambling Related Harms

Join our 2-hour CPD accredited training on Women and Gambling Related Harms led by GamCare's Women's Pathway Programme.

This training is aimed at practitioners working directly with women, to feel more confident in identifying gambling-related harms, and how to respond and signpost for support. During this training, we will cover the gambling-related harms women experience, either from their gambling or someone else's.

The objectives of this training are:
- Understand what gambling harm is and its different forms.
- Recognise the risk factors and drivers to gambling harm.
- Know how to spot the signs of gambling harm.
- Understand the impacts of gambling harm for women who gamble or who are an affected other.
- Knowledge of referral pathways for help and support.

When: Tuesday 13 May, 2pm - 3.30pm

To book your place contact us at 01727649960 or email training@communities1st.org.uk

Register now

Computers and a Cuppa

Computers and a Cuppa is a service for those who need help using technology.

Our volunteers can help with many things, such as setting up email addresses, online shopping orders, and even online banking. This is a drop-in service open to members of the public. There's no need to book in advance, and no charge for the service.

At Computers and a Cuppa, you'll be greeted with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. We're looking forward to seeing you!

Upcoming sessions:

Thursday 17 April, 10am - 2pm

Friday 18 April, 12pm - 4pm

Thursday 24 April, 10am - 2pm

Friday 25 April, 12pm - 4pm

Where: Community Hub, 5 Leeming Road, Borehamwood, WD6 4EB

Employment Support

Employment support for every step of the way

Our Employment Support Hub helps job seekers gain skills and experience to be seen by employers. Our expert team can help with:

Creating online job-seeking profiles
Writing CVs, personal statements, and cover letters
Interview preparation techniques
Communication tips and more!

Where and when?

Appointments available at:

Leeming Road Hub in Borehamwood every Friday, 9.30am to 3.45pm - Drop-in available or make an appointment
Canada Life (cafe) in Potters Bar every Wednesday, 9.30am to 12.00pm - By appointment only
Appointments are available at other venues upon request

Contact: 01727 649960

training@communities1st.org.uk

More information

Wellbeing

Hertsmere Summer Health Walk Timetables

Health Walk Hertfordshire is pleased to announce that the Hertsmere Health Walks Timetable May - Aug 2025 is now available on their website, alongside existing timetables.

Walking is the simplest way to get more active, de-stress, connect with nature and manage certain long-term health conditions. Health Walks are suitable for people of all fitness levels plus those who are isolated or lonely.

Come with a friend or by yourself – a walk leader in a bright yellow jacket will give you a warm welcome and support you all the way. There is no need to worry that you will be left behind as there are two volunteers on each walk and they will keep everyone together.

f you have any questions, a member of the Health Walks Team will be happy to help. Contact healthwalks.cms@hertfordshire.gov.uk or call 01992 555888.

Summer timetable

Back 2 Bowls at Aberford Community Centre

Come and try out our new Back2Bowls project!

Back2Bowls is a fun and welcoming activity, providing free bowls sessions and refreshments to participants. Our sessions are extremely popular, and offer both indoor and outdoor bowls depending on the weather.

Free and open to all – bring a friend or make some new ones.

Check out the video about this project below to find out more!

When: Wednesday 1pm - 3pm
Where: Aberford Community Centre, Borehamwood, WD6 1PL

Link to video

Come along to a Healthy Hub this May

Healthy Hubs are places where you can find free health and wellbeing support. No matter where you live in Hertfordshire, there's a Healthy Hub to help you with your health and wellbeing needs.

When and where:

Your Community Hub, Leeming Rd, Borehamwood - Monday - Thursday from 9am - 3.45pm, and Fridays from 9am - 1pm
Borehamwood Foodbank, Borehamwood - 17 April 10.00am-12.30pm
Phillimore Community Centre, Radlett - Tuesdays 12pm-4pm
Bushey Library, Bushey - every Thursday 10am-12pm

Click the button below to visit our website for information about other venues and dates.

More information

Hertfordshire Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment 2025

You are invited to give your thoughts on the latest Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment (PNA).

The PNA helps provide understanding on what pharmacy services are needed in Hertfordshire and identify any gaps or areas for improvement.

Your input will help Hertfordshire County Council make informed decisions about the future of pharmacy services.

More information

Let's Give

Let’s Give: Where Volunteering Finds You!

Did you know that 82% of hiring managers are more likely to choose applicants with volunteering experience?

Volunteering is a great way to broaden your skills and experience, while showing that you care about other people and local causes. If you’re searching for a new job or career, consider volunteering to boost your CV! It’s a great way to increase your self-confidence, gain new skills and experiences and meet amazing people.

We know that looking for volunteering roles at the same time as applying for jobs can be time-consuming. But with Let’s Give, all you need to do is complete a form to showcase your interests and availability to organisations in need. Then, we will contact you with opportunities you can become involved with. No hassle, just opportunities to make an impact!

Sign up today

Volunteering Opportunities

Volunteer for the St Albans Spring Festival with Communities 1st

St Albans Spring Festival will take place in St Albans on Sunday, 18 May from 11pm to 5pm. This festival is a new event this year, celebrating, wellbeing, community spirit, food and sustainability with activities and entertainment for everyone.

Communities 1st will be running the Quiet Zone tent, located between the Civic Centre and the Alban Arena. The tent will provide a space for anyone who feels overwhelmed or needs a break from the activities and crowds.

We are looking for at least six volunteers to help us with the following tasks:

Help at the stages: There will be musical stage where volunteers will ensure that people with disabilities have suitable seating to enjoy the shows. You will also get to enjoy hearing the bands play while you do it !
Wayfinding - Provide support to the public by walking around and offering information to attendees. Maps and information will be supplied to you
Help in the tent - Providing additional capacity and supporting the Communities 1^st staff in the Quiet Zone tent to ensure that people are looked after

There are going to be two available shifts: 11am - 2pm (start time of 10.45am to enable briefing) and 2pm-5pm (start time of 1.45pm to enable briefing).

If you would like to help, please let us know which shift works for you. If your availability differs from the shifts mentioned but you would still like to volunteer, please reach out to us anyway.

Keeping in Touch caller with MIND in Mid Herts

Mind in Mid Herts are looking for keeping in Touch Volunteers to join their team. As a KIT volunteer you will be giving some of your time to someone who may be in a difficult place, listening, being reliable, offering hope and ultimately empowering them to move forward. People often need to increase their self-esteem and confidence and building relationships can be key to this.

Main tasks include:

Telephone Support (brief weekly check-in calls)
Considering wellbeing needs and putting these into practice
Providing information about local activities, groups and support where appropriate

Find out more

Volunteering with Health & Independent Living Support

Health & Independent Living Support are looking for volunteers to help them with the smooth running of the activities that they put on at their club.

The Kingfisher Club is a welcoming, inclusive club for people living with mild to moderate dementia, memory loss, or for anyone who simply wants to join in with the fun! They run a range of activities every day, such as crafts, games, singing, quizzes, and we offer a hot two-course lunch as well.

This is a wonderful opportunity to make a difference and give back to the local community.

Find out more

Health Walk Leaders for Hertfordshire Health Walks

The Countryside Management Service would like to recruit more volunteers to support existing Hertfordshire Health Walks and set up new, shorter walks for people who are not currently active or are returning to activity after an injury or illness.

Join their team of more than 200 volunteers who help others become healthier and happier by walking together outdoors. No experience is necessary. You can lead walks or provide support from the back.

Volunteer once a week or once a month - it is up to you! Training is free and nationally accredited.

Find out more

Para Dance UK

We are thrilled to announce that our Para Dance online classes have started this week. Thank you very much for all those who joined.

We look forward to bring you the joy of inclusive dance. Explore our exciting themed sessions by joining the Para Dance UK party!

Online classes (via Zoom) are running as follows:

Monday - Adult Dance Club at 10am
Wednesday - Through the Decades at 11am
Wednesday - Primary After School Dance Club at 4:15pm
Wednesday - Youth Dance Club (for secondary school students and young adults) at 5pm

These inclusive and fun sessions are moderate in intensity and will not only get your heart and lungs working, but also foster mindfulness. Register for the classes using the button below to get access to the Zoom links.

If you'd like to run your own inclusive dance sessions, our online courses are designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge to do this. Find out more on the Communities 1st website.

Book a Para Dance class