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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.

29 July 2026, 10:00 - 12:00
Find out more

Renew Wellbeing Broughton Astley

29 July 2026, 13:00 - 14:30
Find out more

Family Canoeing

22 July 2026, 18:30 - 20:30
Find out more

Special Interest Group

23 July 2026, 10:00 - 11:00
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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🎉 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
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🎉 IT'S HERE! 🎉

Our brand-new website is LIVE! We've been buzzing about it all...

🎉 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
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🎉 Are you ready? 🎉

Our brand new website is going live TOMORROW! 🚀 We...

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
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Are you a carer and don’t even realise it? 🤔

Discover the benefits of the...

🌟 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
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🌟 Exciting News! 🌟

Have you seen our website lately? We've been busy behind 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...

🌿 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
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🌿 Looking for the perfect weekend plan? We've got you covered! 🌞

Join us this...

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
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MEET THE TEAM CONTINUED

Wendy Savill, Business Support Manager says "I joined VASL in 2024,...

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,...

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...

FIRST OF OUR MEET THE TEAM SERIES STARTS WITH THE BOSS (of course!) Julia Howell-Jones, Charity Manager says "I have been part of VASL since 2019, initially joining as Business Support Manager before progressing to the role of Charity Manager in 2023. Having lived locally for most of my life, and in Market Harborough since 2002, I am passionate about the local community and the vital role charities play in helping people feel connected, valued and supported. I particularly enjoy working alongside VASL’s dedicated staff and volunteers, whose commitment, compassion and hard work make a positive difference across South Leicestershire every day. I am also deeply appreciative of the continued support provided by local funders, partners and community organisations, whose contributions enable VASL’s projects and services to flourish. Outside of work, I enjoy walking my dogs, reading, socialising with friends and spending time with my son. I value being part of the Market Harborough community and take great pride in witnessing the generosity and community spirit that make the area such a special place to live and work" #MeetTheTeam #VASL #WhoWeAre
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FIRST OF OUR MEET THE TEAM SERIES STARTS WITH THE BOSS (of course!)

Julia Howell-Jones,...

🚨 Important Update! 🚨 Tomorrow's bus trip to Rusden Lakes is CANCELLED due to the high heat weather warning. Safety first! Lisa, our amazing Transport Manager, has been on the phone letting everyone know, but just in case she missed you... Feel free to share this post to spread the word! Stay cool, everyone! 😎 #SafetyFirst #HeatWave #StayCool
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🚨 Important Update! 🚨

Tomorrow's bus trip to Rusden Lakes is CANCELLED due to the...

These are the types of post we love! The George Ernest Ellis Foundation have awarded us a grant for our Community Wellbeing Harborough project. Liz, the Manager of the project shared " We are thrilled to be able to receive this funding to continue the vital work we are doing in the community, thanks to George Ernest Ellis Foundation."
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These are the types of post we love! The George Ernest Ellis Foundation have awarded...

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 had one of those weeks where the stars align and the whole team is in the office? This week, our Community Champions team was buzzing with energy! 📞 Keyboards clacking, phones ringing, and Chester the Office Dog keeping them all in line. Pictured L-R: Amelia, Liz, Alison, Rosie and in front is Chester. Feel the team spirit and share your own office stories in the comments! 🐶👇 #CommunityChampions #TeamWork #ChesterTheOfficeDog
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🐾 Ever had one of those weeks where the stars align and the whole team...

Are your old bras taking up space in your drawers? 🤔 Here's a WIN-WIN solution! During Green Week, we got a Bra Bank at our office. Donate your unused bras, keep them out of landfills, and help us earn funds with every kg collected. 🌍💚 If you’d like to contribute, just drop them in our letterbox by the buzzers to the left of our front door. Let’s make a difference together! Have you participated in similar initiatives? Share your thoughts below! 👇 #Sustainability #BraBank #GreenInitiative
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Are your old bras taking up space in your drawers? 🤔 Here's a WIN-WIN solution!...

👋 Meet the Team – Coming Soon! 👋 Over the coming weeks, we'll be introducing the wonderful people who make up our team! Our new Meet the Team series will give you the chance to get to know each staff member, learn about their role, and discover a little more about the people working behind the scenes to support our communities. Whether you've worked with us before or are just getting to know us, we can't wait to introduce the faces behind the organisation. Keep an eye on our page each week for a new team member spotlight! 🌟 #MeetTheTeam #TeamSpotlight #CommunitySupport #BehindTheScenes
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👋 Meet the Team – Coming Soon! 👋

Over the coming weeks, we'll be introducing...

Tune into Harborough FM to hear our very own Hannah tell you all about what our Support for Carers team have been up to and how they could help you. All with the great Dave Irving #CommunityRadio #SupportForCarers #ThisIsOurCommunity
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Tune into Harborough FM to hear our very own Hannah tell you all about what...

🌟 Making a Difference Across Leicester, Leicestershire & Rutland 🌟 We had a moment in the office recently where we just sat and reflected. Over the last 12 months, VASL has continued to support communities across the District and County, helping people stay connected, independent and supported when they need it most. These numbers tell only part of the story. Behind every journey is a person reaching a medical appointment, attending a community activity, reducing isolation, or accessing vital support. Behind every service is a volunteer giving their time, kindness and commitment to help others. Our volunteers are the heart of VASL. Their dedication enables us to deliver life-changing projects and services across our communities every day. We simply couldn't do what we do without them. As a charity, we rely heavily on grants, funding and the generosity of our supporters to continue providing these essential services. If you value the work we do and would like to help us reach even more people, please consider making a donation. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us continue supporting those who need us most. Just click the donate button on our website www.vasl.org.uk Thank you to our volunteers, staff, funders, trustees, partners and supporters for helping us make a difference every day. #VASL #CommunitySupport #Volunteers #MakingADifference #LocalCharity #SupportingCommunities #ThankYou
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🌟 Making a Difference Across Leicester, Leicestershire & Rutland 🌟

We had a moment 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...

🎉 LOVE is in the air! 🎉 We had the BEST time celebrating our amazing Elaine as she ties the knot TOMORROW! 🎊 From breakfast to cake, it was a day filled with laughter and joy. Elaine, we’re sending you all our love and wishes for a magical wedding day and a bright future ahead. 💍✨ Drop your well-wishes for Elaine in the comments! 💌 #WeddingBells #CongratsElaine #TeamVASL
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🎉 LOVE is in the air! 🎉

We had the BEST time celebrating our amazing...

🌟 Celebrating Small Charities Week! 🌟 We're taking a moment to reflect on the incredible impact our small charity makes in our community. 💪 Right now, we're busy crunching numbers to share with you later this afternoon. 📊✨ Stay tuned for some exciting facts and figures! 👉 How has a small charity made a difference in your life? Share in the comments! 💬 #SmallCharitiesWeek #CommunityImpact #CharityWork #MakingADifference #StayTuned #NonProfit #CommunityLove #CharityMatters #GiveBack #Inspiration
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🌟 Celebrating Small Charities Week! 🌟

We're taking a moment to reflect on the incredible...

🎉 Exciting News! 🎉 We're thrilled to share that we've been chosen as beneficiaries of funding from Market Harborough Building Society. This support will make a HUGE difference for those in need in our district. A massive thank you to MHBS for being an amazing part of our community. Your generosity is truly inspiring! 💙 Feeling inspired? Drop a comment or share this post to spread the love! #CommunitySupport #ThankYouMHBS
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🎉 Exciting News! 🎉

We're thrilled to share that we've been chosen as beneficiaries of...

Feeling the heat wave? ☀️ Here’s how to stay cool and safe: - Keep your home shady: close those sun-facing windows & curtains. - Stay hydrated: drink plenty of water! 💧 - If you're heading out, don't forget sunscreen & a wide-brimmed hat. 🧢 - Remember to check in on elderly relatives and neighbours. 🤗 Stay cool, everyone! How are you keeping cool this summer? Let us know! #StaySafe #Heatwave
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Feeling the heat wave? ☀️ Here’s how to stay cool and safe:

- Keep your...

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...

Stronger together, one conversation at a time. Share with us your ideas to reduce loneliness and thank you for helping give loneliness a voice. "Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much" (Helen Keller) #LonelinessAwarenessWeek
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Stronger together, one conversation at a time. Share with us your ideas to reduce loneliness...

Loneliness is a normal human emotion - and workplaces can play an important role in helping people feel seen and supported. This week, we’re encouraging small moments of connection across our team. Join us TODAY for our Loneliness Awareness Week Event from 10.30-2pm under The Old Grammar School. Take a load off your feet and drop by for a cup of tea, sweet treat and a chat. A relaxed chance to meet others, connect, and spend time together — everyone welcome. #LonelinessAwarenessWeek
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Loneliness is a normal human emotion - and workplaces can play an important role in...

🌟 A Huge Thank You! 🌟 We are delighted and incredibly grateful to have received a grant last night from Harborough Twenty12 Lions, that will help us continue supporting local people and communities. This funding will be put to great use, enabling us to make an even bigger difference through our services and projects. Thank you to everyone involved in making this possible. Would you like to support our work too? 💙 Whether you'd like to organise a fundraising event, take on a challenge, hold a raffle, or simply make a donation, we'd love to hear from you! 📩 Message us to discuss your fundraising ideas. 🌐 Donate via our website: www.vasl.org.uk Together, we can continue changing lives and strengthening our communities. #ThankYou #CommunitySupport #Fundraising #Charity #MakingADifference #SupportLocal #GiveBack
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🌟 A Huge Thank You! 🌟

We are delighted and incredibly grateful to have received...

Tune into Steve, sitting in for legendary Dave Irving this morning where he'll be chatting to Lisa, our Transport Manager giving you all the updates in the Transport world.
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Tune into Steve, sitting in for legendary Dave Irving this morning where he'll be chatting...

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...

We’re proud to be part of Loneliness Awareness Week’s 10th anniversary. It’s a chance to start gentle conversations about connection, belonging and looking out for one another - because no one should feel alone in how they feel. Find out more: @marmalade_trust #LonelinessAwarenessWeek Come along TODAY to our Community Wellbeing Harborough Wellbeing Workshop at St Cuthbert’s Church Great Glen at 1.30pm. Call to find out more and book: 01858 456042
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We’re proud to be part of Loneliness Awareness Week’s 10th anniversary. It’s a chance to...

👐 Support for Carers: Meet-Up Schedule for the rest of the week! 👐 Join our supportive team in your area. Here’s where you can connect with fellow carers: 🔹 Melton: Today, 2pm-3pm at Carnegie Museum 🔹 Hinckley & Bosworth: Tomorrow, 1:30pm-3pm at Age UK Centre, Earl Shilton 🔹 Oadby & Wigston: Tomorrow, 2:30pm-4pm at Salvation Army, South Wigston 🔹 Harborough: Tomorrow, 1:30pm-3pm at Harborough Leisure Centre 🔹 Cuppa with Kerry: Friday, 2pm-3pm on Zoom Don't miss this chance to share, learn, and recharge! 🌟 👉 Tag a carer who might need this! #CarersSupport #CommunityCare #ConnectAndShare #SupportGroup #CarersCommunity #SelfCare #MentalHealthSupport #StayConnected #LocalEvents #CarersJourney
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👐 Support for Carers: Meet-Up Schedule for the rest of the week! 👐

Join our...

👋 Ready for a morning of support and connection? Join our Support for Carers team TODAY at the Wycliffe Rooms, Lutterworth from 10:30 AM to 12 PM. 🕥✨ 🌟 Get valuable advice and meet wonderful people who understand your journey. Don't miss out! 👉 Share or tag a friend who might be interested! #CareSupport #LutterworthEvents #CommunitySupport #CarerAdvice #WycliffeRooms #SupportNetwork #MorningEvent #JoinUs
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👋 Ready for a morning of support and connection?

Join our Support for Carers team...

Keep this one in your diary so you don't forget. No need to book, just turn up #CommunityChampions #over60s
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Keep this one in your diary so you don't forget. No need to book, just...

Next week sees us celebrate Carers Week. Check out what our Leicestershire Support For Carers team are up to around the county. If you are caring for someone and need a little help, give the team a call on 01858 468543 for help and advice. #CarersWeek #SupportForCarers #Community
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Next week sees us celebrate Carers Week. Check out what our Leicestershire Support For Carers...

🌟 Heartfelt Thank You 🌟 Yesterday, we had the joy of hosting a delightful cream tea to celebrate our incredible volunteers. A big shoutout to Market Harborough Building Society for the beautiful venue! 🫖💕 Connecting with so many passionate individuals reminded us of the dedication that drives our mission. Your enthusiasm is truly inspiring! Have a story to share about volunteering? We'd love to hear it! 👇 #Volunteers #Gratitude #TeamSpirit #CommunityLove #CreamTea #ThankYou #Inspiration #Passion #VolunteerLife #GivingBack
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🌟 Heartfelt Thank You 🌟

Yesterday, we had the joy of hosting a delightful cream...

🎉 Shoutout to our amazing volunteers! 🎉 In celebration of Volunteers Week, we want to express our deepest gratitude to every incredible volunteer who dedicates their time and energy to our projects. Your support makes all the difference! 🙌❤️ 📌 Share your volunteer stories with us in the comments below! 👇 #VolunteersWeek #ThankYouVolunteers #CommunityHeroes #GivingBack #Inspiration #VolunteerLove #MakingADifference #Grateful #SupportOurMission
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🎉 Shoutout to our amazing volunteers! 🎉

In celebration of Volunteers Week, we want to...

What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area: Remember today is a Bank Holiday #community #makeadifference #thisismycommunity
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What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area:
Remember today...

Looking for something fun to do this Thursday? 🌟 Join our Special Interest Group at Louisa's Place on May 28th at 10 AM! Hosted by our amazing volunteers, Wendy and Jyoti, it's the perfect chance to dive into this month's exciting topic. Don't miss out! Will we see you there? 😊 #CommunityConnect #JoinUs
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Looking for something fun to do this Thursday? 🌟 Join our Special Interest Group at...

What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area: Remember today is a Bank Holiday #community #makeadifference #thisismycommunity
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What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area:
Remember today...

Another Bank Holiday. Offices are closed today, back to normal tomorrow.
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Another Bank Holiday. Offices are closed today, back to normal tomorrow.

We have another bank holiday coming up so our offices will be closed this coming Monday. Have a lovely long weekend all.
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We have another bank holiday coming up so our offices will be closed this coming...

A lovely example of why sharing information matters 💙 After speaking about benefits support on HFM in April, one of our Support for Carers team received a call from a carer asking whether she might be eligible for Attendance Allowance. The answer was yes — and we’re delighted to say she has now been awarded it, with a turnaround of under four weeks! This is exactly why we do what we do: helping carers and local people access the support they’re entitled to. A very pleased carer, and a very pleased team too 😊 #CarersSupport #HFM #CommunitySupport #LocalRadio #VASL
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A lovely example of why sharing information matters 💙

After speaking about benefits support on...

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,...

Have you obtained your Carers Passport yet? If you haven't had the chance to do so, we highly recommend reaching out to our dedicated Support For Carers team. They are more than happy to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have regarding the process. To get in touch with them, simply give them a call at 01858 468543. #SupportForCarers #Carers #Community
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Have you obtained your Carers Passport yet? If you haven't had the chance to do...

🍴 Ever tried a Safari Lunch? Join us every third Wednesday of the month for a foodie adventure! 🌟 This month, we're heading to Su & Shi on Abbey Street, Market Harborough at 12:30pm. Hosted by our amazing volunteers, Yvonne and Jane, it's a perfect chance to mingle and munch! Curious to know more? Reach out to our Community Champions team. Who's joining the feast? Let us know! 👇 #SafariLunch #FoodieFun
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🍴 Ever tried a Safari Lunch? Join us every third Wednesday of the month for...

What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area: Remember today is a Bank Holiday #community #makeadifference #thisismycommunity
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What's on this week from our VASL projects in and around your area:
Remember today...

As Mental Health Awareness Week comes to a close, we’d love to hear how you took time to look after your mental wellbeing this week 💚 Whether it was a walk in the fresh air, talking to a friend, taking a break, practising mindfulness, or simply being kind to yourself — every small step matters. Thank you to everyone who has helped raise awareness, supported others, and kept the conversation going throughout the week. But the conversation around mental health must continue all year round — not just during awareness week. Together, we can continue to break stigma, support one another, and remind people that they are never alone. ✨ Be kind. Be you. Be well. #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek #MentalHealthMatters #Wellbeing #CommunitySupport #VASL
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As Mental Health Awareness Week comes to a close, we’d love to hear how you...

At some point in our lives, many of us will know someone who is struggling — this may be ourselves, or a partner, family member, friend or colleague. A series of self help guides has been launched covering topics such as depression, anxiety and stress. The guides aim to help people understand their mental health, explore possible causes, and learn practical ways to manage difficult thoughts and feelings. All guides contain evidence based information and are written by NHS Clinical Psychologists, with contributions from people with lived experience and staff across health and voluntary sectors. The guides are not a replacement for professional care. However, if it is not a medical emergency and you are unsure what to do next, they can help you consider possible next steps. Visit the website to access the self help guides and find further support. 👇 https://bit.ly/LLR-self-help-guides
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At some point in our lives, many of us will know someone who is struggling...

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:...

If you're looking for a friendly place to unwind and chat then join us at The Well in Kibworth every third Tuesday of the month at 2:30pm! Our amazing volunteers, Alison and Burne, host the Well-come Group, where you can enjoy an informal chat over a cuppa. No booking needed—just come as you are! 🌟 Who's joining us this month? Let us know in the comments! #CommunityChat #TheWellKibworth #TeaTime
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If you're looking for a friendly place to unwind and chat then join us at...