We are delighted to bring you the latest news, events, opportunities and updates from across the VCFSE sector, connecting organisations and communities across Halton, St Helens and the wider region.

Welcome to the latest Halton & St Helens VCA Newsletter.

With best wishes,

Sally Yeoman MBE
Chief Executive
Halton & St Helens VCA

The dedication and achievements of local volunteers and community groups were recognised at the Halton and St Helens VCA Volunteer Awards 2026, held at The Heath in Runcorn. Five individuals and organisations also received Highly Commended recognition for their exceptional contributions, highlighting the incredible impact that volunteering and community action have across Halton and St Helens. From personal achievements and outstanding service to team efforts that bring communities together, the awards showcased the passion, kindness and commitment that help local people thrive.

Discover how the changing climate is affecting the way we grow our food at a series of free family-friendly workshops hosted by Coalfields Regeneration Trust. Taking place at Newton Le Willows Library and Chester Lane Library, these interactive sessions will give families the chance to learn about fruit and vegetable growing, sow seeds to take home, and enjoy themed activities for children. Places are limited and advance booking is required.

Apex Charitable Trust Ltd is seeking an Information, Advice & Guidance Officer to support individuals by providing high-quality advice, guidance and signposting services. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with strong communication and interpersonal skills who is passionate about helping people overcome barriers and access the support they need. Join a dedicated organisation making a positive impact in local communities.

Get ready for winter with support, advice and information from a range of local organisations at the St Helens Cost of Living and Winter Preparedness Event. Taking place at St Helens Minster on 5 November, the event will offer help with energy bills, accessing local support, staying warm and keeping well over the winter months. Visitors can also pick up a free Winter Advice Pack, access free flu vaccinations and enjoy a light lunch and hot drink while supplies last.

A simple conversation can make a lasting difference. The Making Every Contact Count (MECC) Half Day Training is designed to help people develop the confidence and skills to have meaningful conversations about health and wellbeing. Participants will gain an understanding of behaviour change techniques, learn how to recognise opportunities to start supportive discussions, and discover local services available for signposting. Open to anyone who lives or works in Halton, this training is a valuable opportunity to strengthen communication skills and support healthier communities.

A new statutory duty to share information for safeguarding purposes came into effect on 30 September 2026, strengthening multi-agency arrangements to protect and support children and young people. The guidance places a clear legal expectation on safeguarding partners and relevant agencies to share information proactively where it may help safeguard or promote a child's welfare. It also clarifies that consent is not required for safeguarding-related information sharing and confirms that data protection legislation should not be seen as a barrier to protecting children.

Organisations and practitioners are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the new requirements and help embed the guidance across their services. 

Could you help shape the future of a thriving community organisation? LOOSE, the charity behind The Studio in Widnes, is seeking new Directors to support its work delivering arts, music and community activities for local people. The Studio hosts a wide range of groups and events, including free music sessions for young people, Duke of Edinburgh activities and the long-running Halton Samba Band sessions for adults with additional needs.

This is a fantastic opportunity to support a valued community asset and help continue its positive impact across the borough. Find out more about becoming a Director and how you can get involved.

A new Self-Harm Professional Resource Hub from NHS Cheshire and Merseyside is now available to support anyone who works with or has regular contact with children and young people. The resource provides practical guidance, information and tools to help professionals, volunteers and support workers better understand self-harm, respond appropriately to concerns and build confidence in supporting young people. Developed by professionals and reviewed by children and young people with lived experience, the hub is a valuable resource for education staff, health professionals, youth workers, social workers, volunteers and others working with young people.

Charities, community organisations, social business and community groups of all shapes and sizes can sign up, free of charge and get a slice of the ticket proceeds.

A generous 60% of the ticket proceeds from the the Community Lottery will go to charities, voluntary organisations and other not-for-profit groups with the remainder being put towards prizes, operating costs and VAT.

If you are involved with a local good cause that would like to find out more about fundraising with the Community Lottery, simply scan the QR code on the picture or access the "find out more" button below.