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Improving lives and tackling isolation in South Leicestershire

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Get Involved

I Need Support

Discover our local services, community transport schemes, and groups designed to help you stay connected and independent.

I Want to Get Involved

Whether you want to become a volunteer driver, a telephone befriender, or support our charity through fundraising, we would love to welcome you.

I am a Professional

Access our official guidelines, check eligibility criteria, and securely refer your clients directly to our support networks.

How We Support Our Community

Support for Carers

Helps unpaid carers feel recognised, supported and better able to manage their caring role.

Community Champions

Helps reduce loneliness and isolation for people aged 60 and over who live alone, creating meaningful connections.

VASL Car Scheme

Providing reliable, volunteer-driven community transport to help elderly and vulnerable residents safely attend medical and social appointments.

Community Wellbeing Harborough

Supports adults to improve their mental and emotional wellbeing, helping them feel less isolate and more confident in daily life.

What’s On & How to Join In

Chatty Café, Mercado Lounge, Mkt Harb.

7 October 2026, 10:00 - 12:00
Find out more

Renew Wellbeing Broughton Astley

7 October 2026, 13:00 - 14:30
Find out more

Family Canoeing

1 October 2026, 18:30 - 20:30
Find out more

VASL Carers Coffee Club – Oakham

1 October 2026, 11:00 - 12:00
Find out more
View All Events

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VASLonline

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

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🌟 Feeling nostalgic? Remember the days of Green Shield Stamps, Saturday morning TV, or those iconic telephone boxes? 📞 Share your memories and let’s take a trip down memory lane together! What do you miss the most? 💭 👇 Comment below! #Throwback #Nostalgia #GoodTimes
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🌟 Feeling nostalgic?

Remember the days of Green Shield Stamps, Saturday morning TV, or those...

What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area: #community #makeadifference #thisismycommunity
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What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area:
#community #makeadifference...

Do you struggle with digital technology? Are you over 60 and living alone? Do you have a caring role for someone? Then why not pop along to the library on the first Wednesday of every month for a little help from our wonderful volunteers.
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Do you struggle with digital technology? Are you over 60 and living alone? Do you...

🌟 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
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🌟 Are you a carer? Have you got your Carers Passport yet? 🌟

This little...

MEET THE TEAM Last (but not least) of the Support for Carers team, we have Mark (who you will have seen on a post last week!) who told us "For the past seven years, I have worked within the voluntary sector, including time with VASL as a Volunteer Driver and, more recently, delivering the county-wide Hospital Discharge Grant Scheme which ended in March. I am pleased to be back with the Support for Carers service, working alongside a dedicated and passionate team committed to supporting unpaid carers across Leicestershire. Unpaid carers make an invaluable contribution to their families and communities, yet their role can often go unrecognised. It is a privilege to support carers by listening to their experiences and helping them access the services and support available to them. This may include providing information and advice, facilitating assessments, connecting individuals with local support groups, or simply being a listening ear during challenging times. Having lived in the Harborough area for more than 20 years, I feel fortunate to have a rewarding role that enables me to support people within my local community and make a positive difference to their lives. Outside of work, family life keeps me busy, along with spending time in the garden. I also have a passion for travel and enjoy exploring new destinations whenever the opportunity arises, always on the lookout for the next adventure.
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MEET THE TEAM
Last (but not least) of the Support for Carers team, we have...

🍂 Have you ever felt the magic of autumn? 🍁 Autumn in the UK starts today! This special moment, known as the autumnal equinox, marks the start of a season filled with cosy sweaters, golden leaves, and pumpkin everything. 🌟 It's a time when day and night are almost equal, ushering in longer, cooler nights. What's your favorite autumn activity? Let us know in the comments! 🍂✨ #AutumnVibes #EquinoxMagic
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🍂 Have you ever felt the magic of autumn? 🍁

Autumn in the UK starts...

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What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area: #community #makeadifference #thisismycommunity
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What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area:
#community #makeadifference...

🎉 Guess what? We've been shortlisted for the HDC Community Awards! 🌟 We're thrilled and can't wait for the awards evening next month. Your support means the world to us—keep those fingers crossed! 🤞 Feel free to drop a good luck message or share your excitement in the comments! 🗨️ #CommunitySpirit #AwardsNight #FeelingGrateful
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🎉 Guess what? We've been shortlisted for the HDC Community Awards! 🌟

We're thrilled and...

MEET THE TEAM Staying with the Support for Carers Wellbeing Officer roles, here is Rachel Kirby, who says "I joined VASL in 2025 as a Carers Wellbeing Officer, and I genuinely can’t imagine doing anything more rewarding. I have a real passion for supporting unpaid carers and love helping them recognise that they matter too. Whether it’s offering a listening ear, sharing information, or helping someone find the right support, I’m always happy to help. I enjoy learning everything I can about carers’ rights, services, and wellbeing, and I love passing that knowledge on to empower carers to make informed choices. No two carers are the same, and I believe everyone deserves to feel heard, valued, and supported. I was born in Leicestershire and have always enjoyed connecting with people and making a positive difference in the community. I’m naturally curious and love learning, which is something I bring into my work every day. When I’m not at work, you’ll usually find me surrounded by craft supplies or working on one of my miniature creations, I absolutely love the tiny details! I also have a deep connection with nature and enjoy spending time outdoors, where I can recharge and find inspiration. I firmly believe that creativity and nature play an important role in wellbeing. I’m incredibly proud to be part of the VASL team and feel privileged to support the amazing unpaid carers in our community every day. #MeetTheTeam #VASL #WhoWeAre
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MEET THE TEAM
Staying with the Support for Carers Wellbeing Officer roles, here is Rachel...

👋 Look who’s back! We’re really pleased to welcome Mark back to VASL and our Support for Carers team! Mark previously worked with Support for Carers as part of our Hospital Discharge Grant project, so he’s already a familiar face to many of us and we’re delighted to have him back. He brings with him valuable experience of supporting unpaid carers and a real understanding of the difference that the right advice, information and support can make. Mark will be joining the team as we continue to support unpaid carers across Leicestershire, helping them access the support they need and reminding them that they don’t have to navigate their caring role alone. It’s always lovely when someone comes back to the VASL family. Welcome back, Mark – it’s great to have you with us again!
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👋 Look who’s back!

We’re really pleased to welcome Mark back to VASL and our...

✨ A new chapter for Hannah at VASL! ✨ We’re delighted to share that our lovely Hannah has moved across from our Support for Carers team to join Community Champions as our Project Support Officer. Hannah has already made a fantastic contribution to VASL through her work supporting unpaid carers across Leicestershire, and we’re really pleased that she’ll be continuing her VASL journey with us. She brings with her lots of experience, a great understanding of the people and communities we support, and, of course, she already knows where the tea and cake are kept! ☕🍰 Hannah will now be working alongside the Community Champions team, helping us continue to tackle loneliness and isolation, build connections and support people to feel more confident and involved in their communities. We know our Support for Carers colleagues will miss having her on their team, but thankfully she hasn’t gone far! Congratulations on your new role, Hannah – we’re so pleased to have you as part of Community Champions!
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✨ A new chapter for Hannah at VASL! ✨

We’re delighted to share that our...

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What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area: #community #makeadifference #thisismycommunity
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What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area:
#community #makeadifference...

Yesterday was World Suicide Prevention Day 💛 For us, suicide prevention, kindness, connection and looking out for one another aren’t things we think about on just one day of the year – they matter every single day. But having a day dedicated to suicide prevention gives us an important opportunity to pause, to start conversations, to raise awareness and to remind people that there is always hope and that no one should feel they have to face difficult times alone. To mark the day, we created our Wall of Hope in the office, inviting people to leave messages of encouragement, kindness and hope for others. A great idea from Mental Health Friendly Places. Every message is a small reminder that words matter. Reaching out matters. Listening matters. And sometimes, knowing that somebody cares can make more difference than we realise. Thank you to everyone who added a message to our Wall of Hope. 💛 Hope is something we can share – not just on World Suicide Prevention Day, but every day.
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Yesterday was World Suicide Prevention Day 💛

For us, suicide prevention, kindness, connection and looking...

MEET THE TEAM Still with the Support for Carers Wellbeing Officer roles, here is Elaine Miller, who says "Having lived in Market Harborough for over 20 years, I joined VASL Support for Carers in December 2019, starting in an administrative role before becoming a Carers Wellbeing Officer. I support unpaid carers and host the carers group for the Harborough District. It’s amazing to hear what our carers are going through and so uplifting to know that they feel supported by us and less alone. Whether they are looking for advice, support or just someone to chat to, it’s a real privilege. I enjoy the variety of my role and the opportunity to work with so many wonderful carers and colleagues. I used to care for an elderly neighbour and now care for my mum who is living with Alzheimer’s, this gives me a real insight into what some carers have to manage. Having recently married, I enjoy walking and holidays with my husband, socialising with friends. Between us we have 5 adult children and love to spend time catching up with them too." #MeetTheTeam #VASL #WhoWeAre
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MEET THE TEAM
Still with the Support for Carers Wellbeing Officer roles, here is Elaine...

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.
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It's the boss on HFM this morning with Dave Irving. Tune in to hear Julia,...

🎉 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
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🎉 Did you hear the exciting news? WE WON!!! 🏆

A HUGE thanks to everyone...

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.
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Carers across the county, we've got you. This week, the Support for Carers team are...

What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area: #community #makeadifference #thisismycommunity
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What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area:
#community #makeadifference...

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.
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Next week is World Suicide Prevention Day and VASL have created a 'Message of Hope'...

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
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MEET THE TEAM
Lisa Knott, Carers Wellbeing Officer says "I joined VASL Support for Carers...

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
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Did you know Neighbourhood Mental Health Cafés are a safe, welcoming space where you can:...

What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area: #community #makeadifference #thisismycommunity
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What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area:
#community #makeadifference...

What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area: #community #makeadifference #thisismycommunity
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What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area:
#community #makeadifference...

BANK HOLIDAY - our offices are closed today.
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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.
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It's the bank holiday weekend and our offices will be closed on Monday, back open...

🌟 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
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🌟 Are you a carer? Have you got your Carers Passport yet? 🌟

This little...

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
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MEET THE TEAM
Staying with the same team this week, Gurjit Sangha, Support for Carers...

Calling all carers. Contact our Support for Carers team if you need a new Carers Assessment, call 01858 468543 or email maureen@supportforcarers.org
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Calling all carers. Contact our Support for Carers team if you need a new Carers...

Tune in to Dave Irving's breakfast show to hear Alison, to tell you what's happening within VASL project, Community Champions.
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Tune in to Dave Irving's breakfast show to hear Alison, to tell you what's happening...

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
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Do you have a few hours spare each week or each month? Would you like...

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
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If you are a carer in the Harborough area, pop to our carers group in...

What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area: #community #makeadifference #thisismycommunity
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What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area:
#community #makeadifference...

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
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If you are a carer in the Charnwood area, pop to our carers group in...

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
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MEET THE TEAM
Here is Hannah Currington, Support for Carers Wellbeing Officer, who says "After...

🎉 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
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🎉 Last chance to vote for us! 🎉

We've been nominated for the Non-Profit of...

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!
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Harborough Lotto results are in!

A winning ticket is potentially a week away, we thank...

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

Join...

What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area: #community #makeadifference #thisismycommunity
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What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area:
#community #makeadifference...

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
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Ever felt the power of community support? 🌟

We're THRILLED to thank Market Harborough and...

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
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MEET THE TEAM

And following on from last week's post, here is the other half...

🎉 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
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🎉 Have you voted for us yet? 🎉

We've been nominated for the Non-Profit of...

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
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Feeling the heat wave? ☀️ Let's make sure we’re all staying cool! Remember to drink...

Tune in to Dave Irving's breakfast show to hear Wendy our Business Support Manager tell you what's happening in VASL.
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Tune in to Dave Irving's breakfast show to hear Wendy our Business Support Manager tell...

What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area: #community #makeadifference #thisismycommunity
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What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area:
#community #makeadifference...

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
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MEET THE TEAM
Next is one half of the Community Champions Manager, Liz McMillan who...

🎉 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
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🎉 Exciting News! 🎉

We've been nominated for the Non-Profit of the Year at the...

What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area: #community #makeadifference #thisismycommunity
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What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area:
#community #makeadifference...

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
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July, you've been good to us. 💙

Thank you to everyone who has supported VASL...