GOOD NEWS - 16th February
We start by thanking all the visitors, community groups and organisations for supporting 'Say No To Loneliness' earlier this week.
The event showcased many of the great ways for local residents to try something new and to make friends. There was arts & crafts, music and dance, sports and fitness, volunteering opportunities, ideas to enjoy The Great Outdoors and much more. Healthier Fleetwood and the Social Prescribers also shared information and advice on what's available to support local residents' health and wellbeing.
There was an opportunity to share suggestions on ways to improve health and social care, and breaking down the barriers that prevent people from connecting. The feedback will help plan and deliver services and support in the future. And of course loads of fun and laughter on the day with the highlight poetry from Fleetwood resident Anne followed by an open session of singing for wellbeing with Harmony & Health and an impromptu conga around the beautiful ballroom! Thank you to the venue team for their hard work and to the pupils at Shakespeare Primary school - the welcome bags they decorated with rainbows, smiley faces and other colourful designs were a big hit with all the visitors. One day like this is not going to solve all the issues of isolation and loneliness but it is a step in the right direction ... look out for details of more themed events in the future.
And the next BIG event in Fleetwood is not far away ... Heritage On Your Doorstep is at Marine Hall this Saturday, 18th February. Call in from 10am to 4pm for exhibitions from Fleetwood Museum, Fleetwood Civic Society and Just Reminiscing, and 4 zones telling the story of Fleetwood - Past and Present.
There will also be live music from local artist Joe Boe and a Heritage Bus running from Marine Hall to Fleetwood market / Lord Street which will shuttle passengers between the venues from 10.30am (first run) to the last run at 3pm. And do say hello at the Fleetwood Civic Society stand for some exciting news about Celebrate Fleetwood Day 2023!
If you're ready for a change or new career Lancashire County Council is hosting recruitment events for jobs in Adult Social Care Service.
LCC is seeking caring, compassionate individuals who are looking to make a positive difference in the lives of adults in their local community. Lancashire Adult Learning is supporting the recruitment and the Fleetwood event is Thursday 23rd March, North Euston Hotel, 10am - 3pm.
> Find out more online here or just drop into the recruitment event on the day.
Good to see Fleetwood Beach Wheelchairs looking forward after a challenging couple of months at their Wheelbase HQ on The Promenade.
Repairs to the roof damage are now complete, the premises are protected from the elements again and the focus is on replenishing the equipment and stock. This wonderful charity is entirely run by volunteers and funded by donations so offers of support are always welcome.
And work is also well underway on a Changing Places facility set to open later this year, right next door to The Wheelbase. Wyre Council is leading this project, supported by funding from Fleetwood Town Council, and this will complement the existing Changing Places open in the Fleetwood Hospital building. It's another great example of partners working together to benefit local residents and to encourage more visitors into the Town.
Staying on the beach ... you can help to keep Fleetwood's beautiful coastline clean and tidy for everyone to enjoy by joining The Bay: A Blueprint for Recovery.
There's two beach clean events coming up on Saturday 25th February and Saturday 25th March. At these community litter picks along Fleetwood beach you will also learn all about the damaging effects of plastic pollution, as well as how you can log items like 'ghost' fishing gear. These actions all contribute to nature's recovery along our coastline. Meeting point is Marine Hall for 10.30am, equipment is provided (please never pick up items by hand) and booking is advised. See The Bay's website for this and loads more!
Expressions of interest for new arts and culture events and festivals are invited by Wyre Council, supported by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Proposals should seek to grow visitor numbers, drive spend into the local economy, create volunteering activities and improve experiences and perceptions of town centres. To make a bid, see all the information on the Wyre Council website here - Your submissions must be completed by 12pm, Tuesday 28 February.
Sports News ... there's a new ladies football group starting soon.
It's not in Fleetwood, the Happy Heelz sessions will begin on Friday 24th February, Thornton YMCA, 5pm to 6pm. It's £5pp to play, funds going towards the pitch hire and equipment. Offers of support from potential sponsors are also very welcome. For more details see the Happy Heelz page on Facebook.
And good luck to Fleetwood Town Flyers Over 65's team who take on Salcom next Tuesday in the regional quarter-finals of the Walking Football National Cup. If you'd like to support the team, kick-off is 12.30pm at Poolfoot Farm but you can also try men's walking football for yourself as a great way to support your physical and mental health. Please visit the Fleetwood Town Flyers website for details of their weekly sessions.
A reminder of the FREE drop-in event tomorrow (Friday 17th February) at our Wellbeing & Community Information Centre at Affinity Lancashire. We welcome the West Fleetwood Computer Clinic from 11am to 2pm, offering advice on getting connected to the internet and making the most of your digital device, laptop or PC. Please pop in for a chat and as it's Friday ... enjoy a brew at our Chatter Cafe too! Until the next time ... take care.
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