​In a speech delivered by Tracey Noon of BPRCVS, she reflected on the lasting impact of the pandemic on our community and the lessons we’ve learned along the way.
“I think it is the case that people are much more aware of their mental health. The number of referrals we receive has increased massively, with more complex cases being dealt with on a daily basis by our staff and volunteers. Perhaps a small change is that we are kinder to ourselves, and more understanding of others’ situations,” Tracey shared, acknowledging the increased focus on mental health as a direct result of the pandemic.

As the community has adapted, new practices such as remote working and flexible hours have allowed individuals to strike a better work-life balance, giving opportunities to people who were previously excluded from the workforce. Some even found new passions, leading to businesses, social groups, and lifelong friendships blossoming from the seeds planted during those uncertain times.

The sense of community has also flourished, as many embraced volunteering and found new ways to give back. These volunteers have continued their efforts, offering support in ways that were unimaginable five years ago.

Yet, as Tracey pointed out, there are still those among us who are living with the long-term effects of the pandemic.
“We must reflect on those who have had their lives altered by the pandemic in ways that still affect them 5 years on. This includes children who were at school, who had one and a half years of learning and socialising disrupted by the pandemic.”

These challenges have left lasting scars on many, and the road to recovery remains uncertain for some. Moreover, we cannot forget those who have lost loved ones to the pandemic. There are no words to ease the pain of such loss, but the memorial offers a space to remember and reflect. As Tracey emphasised,
“Today is not a one-off. Our door is always open to reflect on this time, whenever anyone needs to.”


The Burnley Council Covid Memorial provides a space for the community to come together and reflect. Memory panels are available at the Towneley Gift Shop, allowing visitors to record their personal reflections and memories. These will be tied to a fence in front of Towneley Hall as a permanent testament to the experiences and lessons learned during the pandemic.

On the day of the memorial, Tracey Noon invited attendees to join in the reflection. “In a moment, I will tie my memory board to the fence and reflect on the changes I have seen since the pandemic changed all of our lives.” Visitors were encouraged to take a memory tag from the marquee and share their own reflections.

Additionally, a short walk around the grounds was organised, with further information available at the gazebo. The event was a touching reminder of the strength and resilience of our community.

We invite you to visit the memorial and participate in this collective act of remembrance.

Share your own story, reflect on your personal journey, and honour the lives affected by the pandemic.

Don’t forget to check out the photos from the day, capturing the heartfelt moments of reflection and solidarity. Let us continue to support each other as we move forward, remembering the lessons we have learned, and staying connected as a community.
​
Memory panels are available in the Towneley Gift Shop for you to record your reflections and memories and tie them to the fence in front of Towneley Hall.

Burnley in the 1950s was a town in transition. Like much of Britain, it was still emerging from the shadow of the Second World War.

The chimneys of the textile mills still stood tall against the grey Lancashire sky, but the industry that had once fuelled the town’s prosperity was beginning to falter.

The echoes of wartime rationing still lingered in people’s daily lives, and the scars of loss—of fathers, sons, and husbands who never came home—were still fresh. Yet amid the hardship, there was resilience. The people of Burnley, like so many across the country, were determined to build something better. They had endured war and economic strife, and now they turned their attention to their own streets, their neighbours, and their communities.

This was a time of new beginnings—a time when local people, united by necessity and driven by compassion, came together to shape the future. At the heart of this movement was the Burnley Council of Social Service, the organisation that would later become BPRCVS.

In the decades that followed, it would grow from a small, volunteer-led initiative into a vital lifeline for thousands. Its mission was simple: to help those in need, to strengthen voluntary action, and to foster a spirit of unity and support in the town.

​But in 1950, none of that was certain. The challenges ahead were immense. Poverty, unemployment, housing crises, and the loneliness of a changing world— these were the realities the organisation would have to navigate. This is the story of how it did.

The 1950s were a paradox. On one hand, they were a time of optimism, marked by the birth of the modern welfare state. The National Health Service (NHS), established in 1948, was transforming healthcare.

Social security reforms were offering new protections to families and workers. There was hope that the struggles of the past could be left behind.

But for many, the reality was different. Rationing did not fully end until 1954, and the housing crisis was severe. Cities and towns across the country, including Burnley, were filled with families still living in overcrowded conditions, in homes damaged by bombing or simply too old and dilapidated to meet modern standards.

For those who fell through the cracks of the new welfare system—the elderly, the unemployed, the disabled, single mothers, and those living in extreme poverty—there were few places to turn. It was this gap that the Burnley Council of Social Service sought to fill.

One of the organisation’s first and most impactful initiatives in the early 1950s was the Friendly Visiting Scheme. It was a simple idea: volunteers would visit elderly residents who had no family, no support network, and often, no company.

It was about more than just practical help—it was about combating loneliness, a problem that had long been ignored. The visits offered conversation, friendship, and human warmth, something that no state policy could fully provide.

By 1953, the scheme had grown significantly. Volunteers not only provided company but also brought small gifts—hand-knitted shawls, flowering bulbs to brighten up homes, and even homemade baked goods. These were simple gestures, but to the people receiving them, they meant the world.

One elderly woman, Mrs. Edith Walsh, who had lost her husband in the war and had no surviving family, wrote in a letter to the organisation: "Before your visits, I had almost forgotten what it felt like to have a conversation. My days passed in silence. Now, I have something to look forward to again."

​​Stories like Edith’s became common, and it was clear that while the NHS could provide medical care, and the welfare state could provide financial support, only community-driven efforts could truly combat social isolation.

 The 1950s saw the full implementation of the post-war welfare state, with major reforms aimed at reducing poverty and improving quality of life.

The introduction of National Assistance in 1948 replaced the old Poor Law, and state pensions were introduced—but they were only available to those over 70, leaving many older citizens struggling.
Similarly, social housing projects were launched to address the severe post-war housing crisis, but they couldn’t keep up with demand. Many working-class families were still living in cramped, outdated, or bomb-damaged homes, with poor sanitation and no modern amenities.
To address this, in 1950, the Burnley Council of Social Service expanded the work of the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB).

The CAB had been launched in Burnley in the 1930s as part of a wartime effort to provide legal guidance to civilians dealing with bomb damage claims, evacuation issues, and other war-related crises. Now, in the post-war era, it had a new purpose: helping ordinary people understand and access their legal rights.

One of the biggest changes came when the CAB took over the administration of Legal Aid, replacing the old Poor Man’s Lawyer Service. This meant that for the first time, working-class residents of Burnley had access to free, professional legal advice.

Common issues included:

• Housing disputes – With many families being moved due to slum clearance projects, legal guidance was essential.
• Employment rights – Workers, particularly those in declining industries, needed support navigating unfair dismissals or workplace safety concerns.
• Family law – As divorce rates began to rise, so did legal queries from single mothers needing financial or custodial support.

One CAB volunteer, Mr. George Bentley, recalled:

"We had queues out the door some days. People came to us scared, confused, sometimes desperate. They weren’t asking for handouts—they just wanted to understand their rights. Our job was to make sure they weren’t taken advantage of."

For those who found themselves struggling to navigate the new welfare system, BPRCVS provided vital support. The Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) became a crucial resource, offering help with housing disputes, employment rights, and financial aid applications. Volunteers guided residents through complicated forms, legal processes, and the bureaucracy of the new system.

One of the most common struggles was housing rights. While new council estates were being built, many families were forced to leave long-established neighbourhoods, often without understanding their legal protections.

In one case recorded by BPRCVS, a widow and her three children were evicted from their home after their landlord took advantage of the family’s lack of legal knowledge. Thanks to CAB intervention, she was rehoused in a newly built council home in Rosehill, avoiding homelessness.

These small but significant victories showcased the importance of community-led organisations in ensuring that social progress reached everyone—not just those who already had the means to access it.

While the older generation in Burnley still held onto wartime values of thrift, resilience, and communal responsibility, the 1950s also saw the emergence of a new force in British life: youth culture.
​
For the first time, young people had money to spend and a cultural identity separate from their parents. This was the era of the Teddy Boys, with their distinctive drape jackets, tight trousers, and slicked-back hair. Rock and roll arrived in Britain, bringing artists like Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, and Little Richard to radios across Burnley.

This shift was not just about music and fashion—it signified a deeper change in social values and expectations. Young people no longer automatically followed in their parents’ footsteps. They wanted more opportunities, more freedom, and a say in their own futures.

The Burnley Council of Social Service (BPRCVS) recognised this shift and sought to engage with young people in positive ways. One of their earliest youth initiatives was the Burnley Music and Drama Committees, which provided young people with opportunities to express themselves creatively, develop confidence, and find a sense of belonging.

The Burnley Citizens’ Guild, an early predecessor of BPRCVS, partnered with the County Music Committee of Lancashire to create the Burnley Music School, which ran out of Towneley’s Senior Boys’ School.

The music school was a huge success. In its first year alone, over 110 students from Burnley, Nelson, Colne, and Padiham attended, learning everything from classical violin to jazz piano. The school wasn’t just about music—it was about giving young people a space to belong in a rapidly changing world.

As the decade progressed, the music committee was joined by a Drama Committee, which staged plays and performances across Burnley. These events were more than just entertainment—they were a sign that culture and the arts were becoming recognised as important aspects of social welfare.

The 1951 Festival of Britain was a turning point for local arts, with Burnley taking part in national celebrations that aimed to showcase British creativity, resilience, and optimism for the future. Yet, not everyone welcomed these cultural shifts. Some older residents viewed rock and roll, cinema, and fashion trends as disruptive and a threat to traditional values. Teddy Boys were sometimes seen as troublemakers, and there was an increasing divide between the wartime generation, who valued discipline and conformity, and the youth, who wanted freedom and self-expression.

Despite this, organisations like BPRCVS recognised that youth engagement was essential. Instead of pushing young people away, they sought to create opportunities for them—a philosophy that would continue to shape their work in the decades to come.

While the younger generation was embracing new cultural freedoms, many of Burnley’s elderly residents felt left behind in the changes of the 1950s.
With families moving to new housing estates or seeking work in bigger cities, more and more older people found themselves alone.

Burnley Council of Social Service (BPRCVS) responded by expanding the Friendly Visiting Scheme, ensuring that elderly residents who had no family were not forgotten. Volunteers provided more than just conversation—they brought food, small gifts, and essential supplies to those who needed them.

One of the most touching stories from this period is that of Mrs. Margaret Davies, an 82-year-old woman living alone after her only son emigrated to Australia. Before she was introduced to the Friendly Visiting Scheme, she spent most of her days in silence. After meeting her volunteer, a young woman named Eileen, she later wrote:

"For the first time in years, I feel like I am part of something again. I am not just waiting for the days to pass—I am living again."

For many elderly residents, these small acts of kindness made all the difference.

The early 1950s were still a time of economic hardship, and luxuries were few and far between for many families. So, in 1950, when Palatine Square Hostel, a home for elderly women in Burnley, needed urgent repairs, Burnley Council Of Social Service (BPRCVS) saw an opportunity to do something special.
​
Instead of simply relocating the residents temporarily, they arranged for an eight-week holiday in Southport—a seaside break that few of the women would have ever been able to afford on their own.

For many of the residents, this was the first time they had ever seen the sea. One woman, Mrs. Elsie Rowley, described it as “the best eight weeks of my life.”

Photographs from the trip show smiling elderly women sitting on deck chairs, ice creams in hand, laughing together on the promenade. It was a rare moment of joy in a decade that had been filled with struggle.

As Burnley began to rebuild and transform in the 1950s, the Burnley Council of Social Service (BPRCVS) also began to consider its role in the wider community.
While its efforts were focused on Burnley, the seeds were planted for future outreach into surrounding areas such as Pendle and Rossendale. Recognising that the challenges of poverty, housing, and social isolation were not confined to Burnley alone, BPRCVS began to look towards these neighbouring districts.

The organisation's leaders understood that the needs of these communities mirrored many of the struggles Burnley had faced. As the Burnley Council of Social Service (BPRCVS) expanded its services, the groundwork was laid for the future support of these areas, driven by the same ethos of community resilience and support.

It was clear that the mission of Burnley Council of Social Service (BPRCVS) was not limited to a single town, and the desire to extend its reach was already taking shape.

While the 1950s were focused on Burnley, the 1960s would soon see the broader ambitions of the organisation begin to bear fruit, bringing much-needed support to the people of Pendle and Rossendale as well.

This vision for the future would become an integral part of BPRCVS’s mission, solidifying its legacy as a regional force for social change.
 

By the mid-1950s, it was clear that the needs of Burnley’s people were evolving. The organisation had already laid the groundwork for social support, but the challenges ahead were growing:

• The decline of the textile industry was beginning, and unemployment would soon rise.
• New housing developments were displacing long-time residents, leading to legal disputes and social tensions.
• The youth of Burnley were looking for new opportunities, and cultural initiatives would be needed.

The Burnley Council of Social Service was about to enter a new chapter—one that would require innovation, determination, and a commitment to social justice.
​
The 1960s were coming, and they would bring both hope and hardship. BPRCVS would be there to support our community through it all.  BPRCVS Would be there to support our community through it all. 

Strengthening Our Volunteer Community TogetherVolunteers are the backbone of community initiatives, charities, and organisations. But how do we ensure they feel valued, supported, and engaged? 🤝
Join us for an insightful Forum Meeting where we’ll explore the best ways to retain volunteers and create positive volunteer experiences.
📅 Event Details📍 Venue: Calico Homes, Centenary Court, Croft Street, Burnley, BB11 2ED
🕐 Date & Time: Thursday 20th March 2025, 1 PM – 3 PM
This event is open to all—whether you’re part of an organisation, a volunteer, or simply interested in volunteering, this is your chance to learn, share, and connect.
Why Attend?🔹 Discover effective strategies for keeping volunteers engaged
🔹 Learn how to create meaningful volunteer experiences
🔹 Discuss the challenges and solutions in volunteer retention
🔹 Network with organisations, groups, and fellow volunteers
What to ExpectThis session will provide practical insights into the importance of volunteer retention and how to ensure volunteers have a rewarding experience. We’ll also have interactive discussions, real-life case studies, and opportunities to collaborate.
And of course, light refreshments will be provided! ☕🍪
How to Get InvolvedWe’d love to see as many people as possible join this important conversation. If you’re involved in volunteering in any way—or want to be—this is a fantastic opportunity to gain new perspectives and share your thoughts.
📢 Register your interest today! Contact [insert contact details] for more information.
Together, let’s make volunteering more fulfilling and impactful for everyone! 💜

​As we mark 90 years of serving the Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale communities, it's a great time to look back at the incredible journey of Burnley, Pendle, and Rossendale Council for Voluntary Service (BPRCVS).

Founded in 1935, at a time of economic struggle and hardship, BPRCVS has always been at the forefront of advocating for social change. Its origins lie in a deep commitment to helping the most vulnerable—born from the legacy of those affected by the Battle of the Somme. The founders had three clear goals: to fight poverty, improve social welfare, and bring people together to drive real change. In an era when there were few safety nets, BPRCVS became a beacon of hope for many.

​ From the very beginning, the organisation played a key role in responding to local needs, influencing social policies, and supporting communities through crises. This post takes a look at BPRCVS’s early years, up to the 1950s, and highlights the incredible work it did in shaping social welfare in the region.

The UK in 1935 was still recovering from the First World War. The NHS didn’t exist yet, and social security was limited. Pensions were only available to those over 70, leaving many facing an uncertain future without support.

Meanwhile, across Europe, tensions were rising. In Germany, the Nuremberg Laws were introduced, laying the foundation for persecution. Britain, aware of the growing instability, was bracing for the possibility of war. It was during this period that the founders of BPRCVS recognised that government support wasn’t enough to meet people’s needs. They took action, helping create a national movement of local voluntary services—paving the way for what would become BPRCVS. 

BPRCVS’s story begins in 1935 with the creation of the Burnley Citizens’ Guild, a charity dedicated to supporting the town’s most vulnerable people.

It all started in 1933 when Miss Rachel Kay-Shuttleworth, daughter of Lady Blanche Kay-Shuttleworth, held a meeting at Gawthorpe Hall to explore the idea of a centralised social service in Burnley.

This led to the formation of the Guild, the foundation of today’s BPRCVS. The Guild’s first official meeting was on 14th October 1935 at Burnley Town Hall.

Horace Brierley became Chairman, Coun. G. Parkinson was appointed President, and Miss Dorothy Howard took on the role of Secretary. One of their first steps was to create a Mutual Register—a system to help local organisations work together to support those in need.

​This principle of collaboration remains central to BPRCVS’s work to this day.

​At a time when government support was limited, the Guild stepped in to provide vital help where it was needed most.

By 1936, the Guild had already made a significant impact.
Its work focused on four key areas:
• Social services – helping those struggling with poverty
• Juvenile aid – supporting young people in need
• Sickness support – providing aid to the ill and infirm
• Community amenities – improving public resources That year, they recorded 465 cases on the Mutual Register, showing just how crucial their work was.

They also launched the Guild’s Christmas parcel distribution—a tradition that continues today. In 1937, they introduced a clothing collection for struggling families, and by 1938, they were distributing food—including sausages—to help feed those in need.

​These practical initiatives had a real and immediate impact. By 1939, the Guild was becoming an integral part of Burnley’s social fabric. But then came the war, bringing new challenges.

With the outbreak of war in 1939, the Guild quickly adapted. It restructured itself as a Local Voluntary Social Service Emergency Committee and opened its first office on Hammerton Street, which would remain its base for many years.

One of its most important wartime initiatives was setting up a Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) with funding from the Pilgrim’s Trust.

Miss Penelope Hall became the first full-time Organising Secretary, and the CAB provided essential legal and practical advice to people struggling with the realities of wartime Britain— rationing, housing issues, and financial hardships.

​By 1940, the Guild was also helping find accommodation for evacuees from bombed cities and working with the National Council of Social Service to provide aid.

​As the war continued, demand for the CAB’s services grew, reflecting how crucial its work had become. In 1941, emergency plans were made in case the Guild’s offices were hit by air raids. The House of Help was identified as a backup location, ensuring the work could continue no matter what.

Despite the war, the Guild also supported cultural projects. In 1943, it partnered with the County Music Committee to run a music school, attended by over 100 students from Burnley, Padiham, and beyond. As Miss Hall put it at the annual meeting,
“Through it all runs the single purpose of bringing individuals and groups together to work for the benefit of the community as a whole.”

By 1945, as the war ended, the Guild was already looking ahead to a new future.

The end of the war brought a new chapter. In 1946, the Guild officially changed its name to the Burnley Council of Social Service, reflecting its growing role.

A major milestone was the purchase of its Hammerton Street premises.

Previously rented, this became the Guild’s permanent home—a vital base that ensured its ability to continue serving the community.

The post-war years also saw new services emerge:
• 1946: The Marriage Guidance Council was established, offering support to couples and families.
• 1946: The Friendly Visiting Scheme was launched to help combat loneliness among hospital patients.
• 1949: The European Friendship Club was created, helping local residents connect with newcomers.

​These initiatives showed that the Guild wasn’t just about emergency aid—it was about building a stronger, more connected society.

The first 15 years of the Burnley Citizens’ Guild—later the Burnley Council of Social Service—laid the foundation for everything BPRCVS does today.

From wartime relief efforts to community-building projects, the organisation has always adapted to meet the needs of the people it serves. As we celebrate 90 years of advocacy and service, we honour the dedication of the founders, volunteers, and staff who made it all possible. Their commitment helped BPRCVS grow into the organisation it is today—one that continues to stand up for communities in Burnley, Pendle, and Rossendale.

​Over the coming months, we’ll be sharing more stories from our history, highlighting key milestones and the incredible people who shaped BPRCVS. Stay tuned as we continue to celebrate 90 years of social change and look forward to the future!

We are delivering an over 50s event at Down Town alongside BFCITC as part of the Burnley Skills and Employment Group Over 50s Employment task group.

This is for anyone over the age of 50 who is looking for support around employability.

We can offer support around CVs, training, job searching, volunteering, digital skills, confidence building and general employment enquiries.

We are next there on Wednesday 12th February 10am - 12 noon.

Our Support Includes:

• Building Confidence: Learn how to present yourself confidently in interviews, and develop the self-assurance to thrive in the workplace.
• Volunteering Opportunities: Explore volunteering as a way to gain valuable experience, learn new skills, and enhance your CV.
• Training Programs: We offer both in-house and accredited training to equip you with the skills employers are looking for.
• Personalised Support: Our dedicated staff will guide you through your journey, offering advice, encouragement, and practical support to help you succeed.

📅 Join Us Every Friday:

• Time: 9 AM - 1 PM
• Location: Gannow Community Centre, Adamson Street, BB12 6RB

📞 Get in Touch:

• Lisa Ross: Lisa.Ross@bprcvs.co.uk
• Christina Howarth: Christina.Howarth@bprcvs.co.uk

Ready to invest in your future? Contact us today to start your journey towards employment success! 💼
#EmploymentSupport #CareerGrowth #VolunteerExperience #SelfEsteem #BPRCVS #GannowCommunityCentre #TrainingOpportunities #Burnley #ConfidenceBuilding

💼 Empower Your Career Journey with BPRCVS! 💼
Are you struggling with finding a job or unsure of how to start your career? Let BPRCVS be your partner in achieving your employment goals. We offer tailored support to help you succeed in the workforce.
🌱 What We Can Do for You:

• Self-Esteem & Confidence Building: Gain the confidence you need to succeed in job interviews, build relationships at work, and take on new challenges.
• Volunteering as a Stepping Stone: Volunteering offers valuable experience that can open doors to future employment. We’ll help you find the right opportunities.
• Training to Enhance Your Skills: With our in-house and accredited training, you can improve your qualifications and enhance your employability.
• Ongoing Guidance & Support: Our friendly team is here to support you with practical advice and encouragement as you move forward in your career journey.

📅 When & Where:

• Fridays, 9 AM - 1 PM
• Gannow Community Centre, Adamson Street, BB12 6RB

📧 Contact Us:

• Lisa Ross: Lisa.Ross@bprcvs.co.uk
• Christina Howarth: Christina.Howarth@bprcvs.co.uk

Take the first step toward a brighter future—let’s work together to turn your career aspirations into reality! 🌟

The Eric Wright Charitable Trust Fund opened in Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale in March 2018. Due to the success of delivery, the Trustees agreed that BPRCVS should continue to administer the funding and we have just closed the sixth year of successfully funded community projects.
We have seen an increase in the number of groups accessing support and services through BPRCVS.

The environment, rising cost of living, and social isolation still proving challenging. Our local small groups continue to step up, stand solid and support our local communities. Accessing funding opportunities such as the Eric Wright Charitable Trust has enabled them to provide essential activities and community support.

​20 Projects were awarded grants. A variety of activities were applied for, including gardening groups, mental health, wellbeing support and social inclusion.

Key Highlights:

• Over £338,000 in funding and grants awarded to voluntary, community, and faith groups in Burnley, Pendle, and Rossendale.
• Support provided to 1,280 groups, with over 7,300 hours spent helping them grow and sustain their impact.
• Our volunteers contributed an astounding 12,496 hours, adding significant value to local economies.
• The introduction of the Volunteer for Wellbeing & Community Hub, funded by the National Lottery Community Fund, further strengthened our commitment to volunteering.

Transforming Lives Through SupportThis year, we’ve helped individuals and groups through our services like social prescribing, community transport, and health and wellbeing projects. For instance:

• The Social Prescribing Programme supported 2,594 active beneficiaries, reducing social isolation and improving mental health.
• Our Communicars Service completed over 6,900 journeys, enabling passengers to attend appointments, socialise, and regain independence.
• Initiatives such as Children & Families activities empowered young people, with creative programmes and confidence-building workshops.

A Community-Driven Future

​The report also highlights our ongoing collaborations, such as with Lancashire Local and NAVCA, to amplify the voice of the Voluntary, Community, Faith, and Social Enterprise (VCFSE) sector. Whether through networking events, strategic partnerships, or direct funding, we remain dedicated to empowering local communities.


Join Us in Making a DifferenceAs we look ahead, BPRCVS continues to provide resources, guidance, and opportunities for groups and individuals across the region. Your involvement can help us extend our reach and impact.


📥 Download the full report by clicking here to learn more about our work, achievements, and how you can be part of this journey. Together, we make a difference!
Contact Us:
📞 01282 433740
✉️ info@bprcvs.co.uk
🌐 www.bprcvs.co.uk

The meeting offered a great opportunity to connect, collaborate, and enjoy a delicious lunch provided by our dedicated volunteers. Networking was a key highlight of the day, with attendees exchanging valuable information, sharing experiences, and building stronger partnerships to support the work we all do.

Launching Our 90th Year Anniversary Plans!

We were thrilled to officially launch our 90th Year Anniversary Plans for 2025 during the AGM. Next year marks an incredible milestone for BPRCVS--90 years of empowering communities and helping people to help others.

To ensure the celebrations truly reflect the heart of our work, we’re inviting you—our members, partners, and supporters—to share your thoughts and ideas.
We’re excited to announce that we’ll soon be launching an online form where you can tell us how you’d like to celebrate this special anniversary. From events and activities to legacy projects, we’re open to your creative suggestions to help us mark this occasion in a way that resonates with everyone in the community.
Your input is invaluable, and we can’t wait to see what ideas you have. Keep an eye on our website and social media for updates on the form and details of the anniversary plans as they develop!
A Look Back at the AGM The energy and enthusiasm in the room on the day were truly inspiring. From thought-provoking discussions to exciting announcements, the AGM was a reminder of the power of collaboration and shared purpose.
​
To relive the day, take a look below at the wonderful gallery of photos from the event. You’ll find highlights from the presentations, candid moments from the networking sessions, and snapshots of the vibrant community spirit that defines BPRCVS.​

What’s Next?

As we look toward 2025, we’re filled with excitement about what lies ahead. Celebrating 90 years of BPRCVS isn’t just about looking back; it’s about building a stronger, brighter future together. Thank you for being part of this journey—we couldn’t do it without you.
Stay tuned for more updates, and let’s work together to make 2025 an unforgettable year!
Together, we can create something truly special.

The BPRCVS AGM is also a perfect opportunity to network with BPRCVS staff and trustees, and other VCFSE groups and organisations in attendance.

Lunch will be provided and refreshments will be available throughout.

Places are available to BPRCVS members first, and we kindly ask that you limit your attendance to a maximum of 2 persons per group/organisation. If you are not a member, but would still like to attend, please RSVP and spaces will be awarded on a first come, first served basis.

An agenda for the AGM will be released in the coming weeks.

The AGM will take place on Wednesday, 27th November 2024 with arrivals from 1pm, lunch served at 1:15pm, and the AGM commencing in earnest at 2pm. We expect to conclude at approximately 3:30pm, but you're more than welcome to stay afterwards to network.

If you would like to attend, please RSVP to lorna.powell@bprcvs.co.uk no later than 20th November 2024, however we recommend reserving your place as soon as possible to avoid missing out.
​

All participants are economically inactive, often very far away from employment. We work on self-esteem and resilience to enable participants to see, through tiny steps, they can make this work, taking away barriers and enabling them to work around those commitments which prevent entering traditional employment.


This maybe caring or childcare commitments, disabilities, or studies. We have seen in the case of those on disability benefits, who are regularly told they don’t need to work but want to, this project provides the means to create routine and develop ambition which is paramount for positive health and mental wellbeing. We offer sessions in the community to reach residents in Burnley we traditionally may not reach.

​
The project coordinator, Lisa Ross, said of the event, “This was a great opportunity to showcase the amazing and inspirational stories of our clients. We are so proud of the ongoing achievements. Where this project succeeds is the wrap around support BPRCVS offers our clients, enabling them to do training, volunteering and connect with their community during their journey. We offer employment support through wellbeing, confidence building and developing ambition. The results speak for themselves. It’s a great honour to deliver this project to our fantastic residents.”

Kelly from Petals and Polishes, said of the project, “The project was a great opportunity and chance to change my future. I felt I was in a safe space, where I could develop my micro set up. It has boosted my confidence and self-worth through volunteering, training and developing my focus. The event was a wonderful opportunity that gave me a chance to show off my creative venture. It was amazing meeting our MP and seeing how far I have actually come.”

The event was catered for by Burnley-based On The Kerb, and printing was supplied by Burnley-based Nu Age Printers.

This project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Check out the gallery down below to see some photos from the event! 

What’s Included? This comprehensive course covers a variety of crucial skills:

• Job search strategies
• Boosting self-esteem and confidence
• Developing a tailored employment plan
• Understanding and overcoming barriers to employment
• Engaging in networking sessions and peer discussions
• CV reviews to polish your resume
• Workshops on wellbeing and interview techniques
• Advocacy and referrals for additional training and volunteer opportunities

Whether you're starting out or looking to return to work, this course provides the tools and guidance you need to succeed.

The next session will be held on Thursday, November 7th, from 2-4 PM at the Rosegrove Youth & Community Hub.

If you’d like to participate, contact Lisa Ross at lisa.ross@bprcvs.co.uk or drop by the hub for more details.

This project is generously funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, and supported by Burnley Borough Council and BPRCVS.
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Don’t miss out on this opportunity to take the next step in your career journey!

We are excited to announce an upcoming event in October that will celebrate the incredible achievements of participants in the UKSPF (UK Shared Prosperity Fund) project.

​ This event will shine a light on clients who have successfully set up their own businesses through our training and workshops focused on passive income and self-employment.

Our goal for the event is to inform professionals about the impact of the UKSPF project and the businesses that have emerged as a result. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet our new business owners, who will be showcasing their products and services. You'll also learn more about the other businesses that have been established through our workshops, along with in-depth information about the training we provide to support self-employment and passive income ventures.

We aim to make this a lively, engaging event and encourage as much participation as possible. Expect a vibrant atmosphere, exciting giveaways, and a provided lunch for all attendees. It's a fantastic opportunity to network, discover new business ideas, and learn how our project can support budding entrepreneurs.

If you’re a professional interested in supporting local businesses and learning more about our training programmes, this is an event you won’t want to miss. We look forward to welcoming you and celebrating the success of our clients together!

Steve’s journey with us has been one of transformation and personal growth. Initially, he planned to paint his artwork as a mural on a wall at GCC, but he decided to bring his vision to life on a canvas instead. This thoughtful choice makes the painting more movable, allowing it to be displayed and appreciated in various settings.
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Steve’s painting is not just a beautiful piece of art; it’s a powerful symbol of his journey toward independence and self-expression. While he is enjoying being in his own environment and embracing his independence, Steve knows that the support network of BPRCVS, our dedicated staff, and volunteers will always be there for him whenever he needs us.

We cannot describe just how fantastic this painting is! It embodies the positive steps he continues to take in his life. It's a vivid reminder of the impact that support, community, and volunteering can have on someone's journey.

Steve's story is a testament to the power of community and support.

We are honored to have played a role in his journey and are thrilled to see him thriving in his newfound independence. His painting will serve as a lasting reminder of the importance of the work we do and the incredible people we are fortunate enough to meet along the way.
At BPRCVS, we are committed to supporting individuals like Steve as they navigate their paths to recovery and independence. Stories like his inspire us to continue our mission, providing help and support where it’s needed most.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Steve for this beautiful gift and look forward to continuing this journey with him. To everyone involved in supporting Steve—our staff, volunteers, and partner organisations—thank you for your dedication and compassion.

If you would like to learn more about how you can get involved in supporting our community efforts and people like Steve, please get in touch with our Volunteer Hub Team on 01282 436396 or email thehub@bprcvs.co.uk. 

​Or, if you or someone you know needs support, you can find information about BPRCVS' project and services by visiting our website

 Steven's Artwork will be on display at Gannow Community Centre for all to enjoy! 

Click here to download a copy

​Great news! Pendle West (Nelson and Brierfield) PCN has funded one Children and Young People's Worker since April and are so pleased with the service and support given to young people that they are now going to fund a second worker. 

Unfortunately, due to limited funding in Pendle East (Colne, Barnoldswick and Earby), Burnley and Rossendale we have no alternative but to pause acceptance of referrals for these areas with immediate effect.

We have seen an increasing number of referrals coming into the programme and are working hard to secure more funding to enable this vital service to continue across these areas and hope we can resume business as usual from 1st April 2025.

In the meantime, our teams will continue to provide the planned activities during the summer break and during the half term break in October.  Activities will then pause until Easter 2025.

Children and young people who are still on our system as requiring activities will be paused until April 2025.

Our Team will be in touch with everyone who is currently on our system including those on our waiting list.

Thank you for your patience and understanding and please keep your fingers crossed for our success in securing more funding.

Should you wish to send us a testimonial to help us in funding applications, please send them to tracey.noon@bprcvs.co.uk

📊 BPRCVS Monitoring & Evaluation Workshops! 📊
Are you looking to enhance your skills in monitoring and evaluating your funded projects? Join our expert funding team for a series of workshops designed to help you do just that!
🖥️ Online via MS Teams
💸 Free to attend!
Multiple dates and times available. For more details, please view the poster.