Improving lives and tackling isolation in South Leicestershire

What’s On & How to Join In

VASL Support for Carers group – Melton

9 September 2026, 14:00 - 15:30

Over 50’s Club

9 September 2026, 14:30 - 16:30

Chatty Café, Mercado Lounge, Mkt Harb.

16 September 2026, 10:00 - 12:00

Renew Wellbeing Broughton Astley

9 September 2026, 13:00 - 14:30

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VASLonline

A charity providing services and projects to improve the lives of people in our community.

It's the boss on HFM this morning with Dave Irving.  Tune in to hear Julia, our Charity Manager talking about what's going on with VASL.
🎉 Did you hear the exciting news? WE WON!!! 🏆

A HUGE thanks to everyone who voted for us in the My Local Awards for best non-profit. Your support truly makes us smile! 😊

Feeling grateful and inspired by our amazing community. Let’s keep making a difference together!

Drop a comment or share your thoughts below. We'd love to hear from you! 💬

#CommunityLove #Grateful
Carers across the county, we've got you.  This week, the Support for Carers team are holding 3 carers groups:

- Working Age carers Group, Zoom online on Tuesday
- Melton Carers Group on Wednesday
- Hinckley & Bosworth Carers Group on Thursday

Contact the team on 01858 468543 to find out more.
What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area:
#community #makeadifference #thisismycommunity
Next week is World Suicide Prevention Day and VASL have created a 'Message of Hope' wall in the offices.  This is for staff and members of the public can leave positive messages of hope and encouragement for others.

We also have information leaflets for people to take away, signposting them to the Start a Conversation suicide prevention e-learning. This free training equips people with the knowledge and confidence to navigate conversations around suicide, supporting this year's theme of Changing the Narrative.

If you would like to add to our 'Message of Hope' wall you can pop in and add yours or email in confidence to admin@vasl.org.uk where your anonymous message will be added.

Thanks to Mental Health Friendly Places & Clubs for the resources.
MEET THE TEAM
Lisa Knott, Carers Wellbeing Officer says "I joined VASL Support for Carers in September 2023 as a Carers Wellbeing Officer and am passionate about supporting people through their caring journey. My own personal experiences as a carer for my mother-in-law gave me a real understanding of the challenges and emotions that many carers face. As my husband was an only child with no other close family support, we experienced first-hand the importance of having the right help and guidance available.
Originally from Durham, my career path has been varied and interesting. I studied to become a buyer and have had the opportunity to live in both Morocco and Singapore, experiences that developed my love of travel and meeting people from different cultures.
I enjoy helping others, building connections, and supporting carers to feel heard, understood and valued.

#MeetTheTeam #VASL #WhoWeAre
Did you know Neighbourhood Mental Health Cafés are a safe, welcoming space where you can: 

⦁ Talk through what’s on your mind with trained staff 
⦁ Find support for your mental health and wellbeing 
⦁ Get practical advice and coping strategies

Walk in. No judgment. No pressure.  Open 7 days a week.

Find your nearest Neighbourhood Mental Health Café, check up to date times and locations, and watch these information videos here 👇

https://bit.ly/m/LLRNMHCs
What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area:
#community #makeadifference #thisismycommunity
What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area:
#community #makeadifference #thisismycommunity
BANK HOLIDAY - our offices are closed today.
It's the bank holiday weekend and our offices will be closed on Monday, back open as normal on Tuesday at 9am.
🌟 Are you a carer? Have you got your Carers Passport yet? 🌟

This little card can make a big difference in your daily life by providing access to resources and support specifically for you! 🙌💼

Reach out to our Support for Carers team and secure yours today. You deserve it! ❤️

Have questions or experiences to share? Drop them in the comments! 👇

#CarersSupport #CommunityCare #CarersPassport
MEET THE TEAM
Staying with the same team this week, Gurjit Sangha, Support for Carers Wellbeing Officer says "I have worked in the voluntary sector for over 20 years and in my current role at VASL supporting carers since 2011. Prior to this I worked for local government in London for a number of years then for the local authority and NHS when I moved to Leicestershire"

#MeetTheTeam #VASL #WhoWeAre
Calling all carers.  Contact our Support for Carers team if you need a new Carers Assessment, call 01858 468543 or email maureen@supportforcarers.org
Tune in to Dave Irving's breakfast show to hear Alison, to tell you what's happening within VASL project, Community Champions.
Do you have a few hours spare each week or each month?  Would you like to make a difference to your community?  Get paid mileage and looked after by the dynamic duo that is Lisa and Jo in our Transport team?

Then call 01858 468499 or email transport@vasl.org.uk to find out more
If you are a carer in the Harborough area, pop to our carers group in Market Harborough on Thursday at 1.30pm.
Call our Support for Carers team to find out more on 01858 468543.
#CarersWellbeing #CarersSupport
What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area:
#community #makeadifference #thisismycommunity
If you are a carer in the Charnwood area, pop to our carers group in Loughborough on Monday at 2pm.
Call our Support for Carers team to find out more on 01858 468543.
#CarersWellbeing #CarersSupport
MEET THE TEAM
Here is Hannah Currington, Support for Carers Wellbeing Officer, who says "After several years as a primary school teacher, I joined VASL as a Youth Worker in 2012 to run the Young Carers group, which left me with great memories and a strong desire never to go indoor skydiving again. I moved sideways to Support for Carers in 2018. I love my job because I have always been the sort of person where someone will tell me their life story in the chip shop queue, and now I get paid for it! Outside of work I am obsessed with dogs, stately homes and Scrabble, not usually simultaneously.

#MeetTheTeam #VASL #WhoWeAre
🎉 Last chance to vote for us! 🎉

We've been nominated for the Non-Profit of the Year at the My Local Awards! Your vote can make a HUGE difference for us. 🗳️

It only takes a minute to support us. Ready to help? Click here: https://mylocalawards.co.uk/business/vasl/

Voting ends tomorrow, every single vote matters! 🙌

Thank you for your support! ❤️

#MyLocalAwards #CommunityVotes
Harborough Lotto results are in! 

A winning ticket is potentially a week away, we thank you for your continued support. 

If you haven't signed up yet visit our page - https://www.harboroughlotto.co.uk/support/vasl 

Have a great weekend everyone!
If you are a carer looking for support and connection? We've got you covered!

Join our carers group in Hinckley, this Thursday

We're here to help! Call our Support for Carers team at 01858 468543 for more details. 📞

PLUS, don't forget, we have Carers Groups all over the County! 🌍

#CarersSupport #TogetherWeCare
What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area:
#community #makeadifference #thisismycommunity
Ever felt the power of community support? 🌟

We're THRILLED to thank Market Harborough and the Bowdens Charity for backing our Community Champions project! 🎉

This funding helps us continue making a big difference for those feeling isolated and lonely in Market Harborough.

Feeling grateful? Drop a comment or share your thoughts below! ❤️

#CommunitySupport #MakingADifference
MEET THE TEAM

And following on from last week's post, here is the other half of the Community Champions Manager role, Alison Kennerdell, who says "I joined VASL in March 2024, initially providing administrative support before becoming a Befriending Officer. I now have the privilege of being joint Project Manager for the Community Champions project.

Before joining VASL, I spent much of my career working in public relations and communications, primarily within the NHS, before taking a career break to raise my four children.

VASL is such a special organisation, and it is a privilege to work alongside so many dedicated volunteers and staff who go out of their way to provide friendship, company and support to members of our local community. The impact they have on so many lives is invaluable, and I continue to learn so much from the clients and volunteers we work with every day.

Outside of work, I'm usually busy taxiing my children around, can sometimes be found in the swimming pool, and very occasionally on stage next door at the Harborough Theatre."

#MeetTheTeam #VASL #WhoWeAre
🎉 Have you voted for us yet? 🎉

We've been nominated for the Non-Profit of the Year at the My Local Awards! Your vote can make a HUGE difference for us. 🗳️

It only takes a minute to support us. Ready to help? Click here: https://mylocalawards.co.uk/business/vasl/

Voting ends on 19th August - every single vote matters! 🙌

Thank you for your support! ❤️

#MyLocalAwards #CommunityVotes
Feeling the heat wave? ☀️ Let's make sure we’re all staying cool! Remember to drink plenty of water and check in on elderly relatives and neighbours. A little kindness goes a long way. 💧

Also, with the eclipse this evening, make sure you have the special glasses if you want to see it.

How are you beating the heat? Share your tips below! 🌿

#StayCool #HeatWave
Tune in to Dave Irving's breakfast show to hear Wendy our Business Support Manager tell you what's happening in VASL.
What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area:
#community #makeadifference #thisismycommunity
MEET THE TEAM
Next is one half of the Community Champions Manager, Liz McMillan who says "I am very fortunate to job-share the Community Champions Project Manager role with Alison, my partner in crime, and I also lead Community Wellbeing Harborough. I joined VASL in April 2020 at the height of the COVID-19 lockdown and, over the years, have been lucky enough to have had the opportunity to work on every project across the organisation.
Before joining VASL, I worked for the Home Office for 20 years. Moving into the voluntary and community sector was a significant change in direction for me, but one that I have thoroughly enjoyed and found incredibly rewarding.
I love my job and especially enjoy meeting and talking with our wonderful clients, helping people connect with the support, services and opportunities available within their communities.
My dog, Chester, can often be found keeping a watchful eye on proceedings in the office and likes to think he's the real boss of VASL"

#MeetTheTeam #VASL #WhoWeAre
🎉 Exciting News! 🎉

We've been nominated for the Non-Profit of the Year at the My Local Awards! Your vote can make a HUGE difference for us. 🗳️

It only takes a minute to support us. Ready to help? Click here: https://mylocalawards.co.uk/business/vasl/

Voting ends on 19th August—every single vote matters! 🙌

Thank you for your support! ❤️

#MyLocalAwards #CommunityVotes
What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area:
#community #makeadifference #thisismycommunity
July, you've been good to us. 💙

Thank you to everyone who has supported VASL this month – our volunteers, staff, partners, fundraisers and supporters.

Every kind word, every mile driven, every donation and every act of kindness has helped make our community a little stronger.

Bring on August and more opportunities to make a difference together.

#CommunitySpirit #VASL #KindnessCounts #ThankYou
MEET THE TEAM
Next in this series is Lisa Jones, Transport Manager who says "I joined VASL in March 2021 on the Support for Carers project and became the Transport Manager in April 2023 after Sandy retired. Working for VASL is the most rewarding job I’ve ever had. I work with a great bunch of people and engage with so many amazing volunteers and lovely clients every day.

I’ve also done some volunteering myself over the years, I was a Scout Leader for 10 years and now I help organise the village beer festival every year, along with other big village events. I’m married to Nick (who thinks he’s Bear Grylls and is usually camping in a field somewhere). I have two boys aged 18 and 21, neither of which are remotely interested in the outdoors!

We have two dogs: Lola and Pip 🐾"

#MeetTheTeam #VASL #WhoWeAre
🎉 ANNOUNCEMENT! 🎉

We're thrilled to welcome TWO amazing new Trustees to our Board! Please join us in giving a warm welcome to Claire Hurst and Rosemary Hamilton. 🌟
🎉 ANNOUNCEMENT! 🎉

We're thrilled to welcome TWO amazing new Trustees to our Board! Please join us in giving a warm welcome to Claire Hurst and Rosemary Hamilton. 🌟

They bring a wealth of experience and fresh perspectives, and we can't wait to see the incredible impact they'll have.

Let's show them some love! Drop a comment to welcome them or share this post! 🙌

#Welcome #NewTrustees #Community
What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area:
#community #makeadifference #thisismycommunity
💙 Support VASL while supporting your local community

Looking for an easy way to support local good causes? By joining Harborough Lotto and choosing VASL as your nominated charity, you'll be helping us continue providing vital services to people across Harborough District and South Leicestershire.

Every ticket sold for our cause helps us support older people, unpaid carers and volunteers, reducing loneliness, improving wellbeing and helping people stay independent in their own communities.

As a community lottery, participants also have the opportunity to win cash prizes, but the real winner is our local community.

If you're already a Harborough Lotto player, we'd be incredibly grateful if you'd consider changing your nominated cause to VASL. Every ticket makes a difference.

Thank you for supporting local people, local charities and a stronger community. 💙

👉 Find out more or choose VASL as your good cause:  https://www.harboroughlotto.co.uk/support/vasl?utm_campaign=cause-page-social-share&utm_source=cause-page&utm_medium=social&utm_c 

Please play responsibly. Harborough Lotto is open to players aged 18 and over.
Our Support for Carers team is here to help! If your situation has changed, give us a call at 01858 468543 to discuss a Carers Assessment. We're just a phone call away to provide the support you need. 💬

Have questions? Drop them in the comments or share this post to spread the word! 📲

#SupportForCarers #CarersAssessment #YouAreNotAlone
MEET THE TEAM
Up next we hear from Kerry Turnbull, Carers Services Manager who says "I have been working for the voluntary sector for over 30 years, developing and implementing new services across Leicestershire. During this time, I have supported carers and gained a vast knowledge of the difficulties and challenges carers face.

It's crucial that our carers are supported in every which way, in order to carry out their caring role. I enjoy my role as Support for Carers Service Manager and have a fantastic team to work with". 

#MeetTheTeam #VASL #WhoWeAre
🎉 IT'S HERE! 🎉

Our brand-new website is LIVE! We've been buzzing about it all week, and now it's time to check it out. 🌟

Head over to www.vasl.org.uk and explore our fresh, updated, and super-easy-to-navigate site. Trust us, you'll love it as much as we do!

A HUGE shoutout to the amazing team at Caged Fish for their incredible support. 🙌

👉 Tell us what you think in the comments. Love it? Share it! #NewWebsite #VASL #ThankYouCagedFish
🎉 Are you ready? 🎉

Our brand new website is going live TOMORROW! 🚀 We can't wait for you to see it!

A massive THANK YOU to Caged Fish for their amazing work, well, after all, they are the experts. 🙌

Be sure to check it out first! 🌟

👉 Who's excited? Drop a comment below!

#WebsiteLaunch #ExcitingNews #CagedFish
Are you a carer and don’t even realise it? 🤔

Discover the benefits of the Carers Passport! It’s a game-changer for support and resources. 🌟

Curious? Check out our website at www.supportforcarers.org for all the details.

Join the community and share your thoughts! 💬

#CarersSupport #CommunityCare #Leicestershire
🌟 Exciting News! 🌟

Have you seen our website lately? We've been busy behind the scenes refreshing and updating it, and we're thrilled to announce it's going live this Wednesday! 🎉

We can't wait for you to check it out. Let us know what you think!

A HUGE shoutout to Caged Fish for their amazing help in bringing this vision to life. 🙌

Stay tuned and get ready! 🚀

#WebsiteLaunch #ExcitingUpdates #Teamwork
What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area:
#community #makeadifference #thisismycommunity
🌿 Looking for the perfect weekend plan? We've got you covered! 🌞

Join us this Sunday, July 19th, from 2pm to 5pm for an open garden event in Tur Langton. Enjoy a lovely cup of tea or coffee, and let the kids cool off with an ice pop while your furry friends get some tasty treats! 🐾🍰

Stroll through a beautiful garden and indulge in homemade cake, all while supporting a great cause. All funds will be donated to VASL, thanks to our amazing host, Karen! 

Don't miss out on this delightful experience. Comment below if you'll be there or tag a friend who'd love to join! 🌸

#WeekendFun #OpenGarden #SupportVASL
MEET THE TEAM CONTINUED

Wendy Savill, Business Support Manager says "I joined VASL in 2024, leaving the Finance and Training world behind, initially working just a few hours a week in a Business Support role. As my responsibilities grew, so did my hours, and I was delighted to be appointed Business Support Manager in January 2026.

One of the things I enjoy most about working at VASL is the variety of people we meet and support. It is incredibly rewarding to see the positive difference our projects and services make within the community, and I am always inspired by the kind words and feedback we receive from those who benefit from our work.

Being part of VASL gives me the opportunity to contribute to a community-focused organisation that genuinely changes lives, and I feel privileged to play a role in supporting the important work we do across the area.

Outside of VASL, I run a suicide prevention charity alongside my husband, something I am deeply passionate about. In my spare time, I love wild swimming all year round, whatever the weather, and spending time exploring in our motorhome with our wonderful Swedish Vallhund, Axel.".
#MeetTheTeam #VASL #WhoWeAre
It's the boss on HFM this morning with Dave Irving.  Tune in to hear Julia, our Charity Manager talking about what's going on with VASL.
What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area:
#community #makeadifference #thisismycommunity