Climate Emergency

What are you doing to tackle the Climate Emergency?

• Share How to Throw a Plastic-Free Party (Without Losing Any of the Fun) on Facebook Share How to Throw a Plastic-Free Party (Without Losing Any of the Fun) on Twitter Share How to Throw a Plastic-Free Party (Without Losing Any of the Fun) on Linkedin Email How to Throw a Plastic-Free Party (Without Losing Any of the Fun) link

  How to Throw a Plastic-Free Party (Without Losing Any of the Fun)

  by Eco Communities, 5 days ago
  

  Birthdays, christenings, end-of-term celebrations, parties are brilliant fun, but they're also one of the biggest sources of single-use plastic in our homes. Balloons, disposable plates, plastic party bag fillers... most of it is used for an hour and binned by teatime.

  The good news? A plastic-free party isn't a compromise. With a few easy swaps, you can throw a celebration that's just as colourful, just as exciting, and a whole lot kinder to the planet.

  Here's how we do it at Eco Communities UK.

  Start With a Reusable Party Kit

  Instead of buying disposable plates, cups, and cutlery that go... Continue reading

  Birthdays, christenings, end-of-term celebrations, parties are brilliant fun, but they're also one of the biggest sources of single-use plastic in our homes. Balloons, disposable plates, plastic party bag fillers... most of it is used for an hour and binned by teatime.

  The good news? A plastic-free party isn't a compromise. With a few easy swaps, you can throw a celebration that's just as colourful, just as exciting, and a whole lot kinder to the planet.

  Here's how we do it at Eco Communities UK.

  Start With a Reusable Party Kit

  Instead of buying disposable plates, cups, and cutlery that go straight in the bin, hire our reusable party kit. Everything you need for the table is included , just return it clean when the party's over, ready for the next celebration.

  It's lower cost than buying disposable everything new each time, and it means nothing from your party ends up in landfill before the candles are even blown out.

  Add some sparkle with our bunting hire add-on, instant party atmosphere, with zero waste.

  Wrap Gifts the Plastic-Free Way

  Skip the plastic crinkly / glitter gift wrap and sticky tape. Wrap presents in brown paper, or make it extra special with one of our recycled sari wraps — each one unique, beautifully colourful, and reused rather than ripped off and binned.

  Sort the Entertainment

  Keep the kids busy with plastic-free party activities from our online shop. Browse the range and find something that suits your celebration , no tat, no landfill-bound trinkets, just genuinely fun activities the kids will enjoy.

  Party Bags That Don't Cost the Earth (Literally)

  Plastic party bags stuffed with cheap plastic toys are one of the biggest party-waste culprits. Here's how to do it better:

  • Start with a simple brown paper bag — low cost and fully recyclable
  • Glam it up with an inked stamp or a length of ribbon
  • Pop in a box of Smarties
  • Add one of our plastic-free gifts from the website

  Simple, thoughtful, and something kids will actually use, not something that ends up in the bin on the way home.

  What to Leave Out

  A few things to avoid if you want your party to be genuinely plastic-free:

  • Balloons — they're a major source of plastic and latex litter
  • Single-use plates and cutlery
  • Plastic party bag fillers and cheap toys

  These are the items that get used for minutes and binned for centuries.

  Your Eco Party Checklist

  Print this out, stick it on the fridge, and tick off as you plan:

  • Hire a reusable party kit instead of buying disposable
  • Add bunting for decoration that doesn't end in the bin
  • Wrap gifts in brown paper or a recycled sari wrap
  • Choose plastic-free party activities
  • Make party bags from brown paper, stamps, and ribbon
  • Fill party bags with sweets and a plastic-free gift
  • Say no to balloons and single-use plates
  • Shop plastic-free gifts and activities online

  Shop our Eco Party Range

  Ready to plan your plastic-free party? Browse our party activity packs, plastic-free gifts, and everything you need for party bags on our online shop.

  If you're in Cheshire, you can Hire our Party Kits and Activity packs and gifts and collect locally.

  Shop the Party Range → click here

  Book our Kids Party Kits - click here

  Eco Communities are also part of the Party Kit Network - click here

  Eco Communities UK is part of the Sustainable Cheshire network, helping local communities live more sustainably — one party, one refill, one small swap at a time.
• Share Chester Green Festival returns Sunday 14 June on Facebook Share Chester Green Festival returns Sunday 14 June on Twitter Share Chester Green Festival returns Sunday 14 June on Linkedin Email Chester Green Festival returns Sunday 14 June link

  Chester Green Festival returns Sunday 14 June

  12 days ago
  

  Chester Green Festival Returns this Sunday (14^th) with Talks, Workshops and Family Activities in Chester Town Hall and Picturehouse.

  The festival will feature expert talks, workshops, eco stalls, arts and crafts, food and drink, films and family-friendly activities designed to inspire practical action for a greener future.

  
  

  This second festival day expands the programme from the previous Sunday (pictured) with a full day of talks, interactive workshops, eco stalls, repair and reuse initiatives, arts activities and community conversations focused on shaping a greener future for the region.

  The event 10.30am – 7pm, is FREE and designed to be... Continue reading

  Chester Green Festival Returns this Sunday (14^th) with Talks, Workshops and Family Activities in Chester Town Hall and Picturehouse.

  The festival will feature expert talks, workshops, eco stalls, arts and crafts, food and drink, films and family-friendly activities designed to inspire practical action for a greener future.

  
  

  This second festival day expands the programme from the previous Sunday (pictured) with a full day of talks, interactive workshops, eco stalls, repair and reuse initiatives, arts activities and community conversations focused on shaping a greener future for the region.

  The event 10.30am – 7pm, is FREE and designed to be welcoming and accessible for everyone; whether people want practical tips for living more sustainably, opportunities to connect with local groups, or simply a fun and inspiring family day out. Helen Tandy, Founding Director of Eco Communities UK, said:

  “Chester Green Festival brings people together to explore practical, positive ways we can create a greener future for our communities.

  “We want people to leave feeling inspired and empowered – whether that’s discovering a local project, learning a new skill, making small changes at home or simply having conversations about the future we want for Chester.”

  Visitors can expect a vibrant mix of expert speakers, local makers, sustainability organisations, creative workshops and hands-on activities covering topics including repair and reuse, food, nature, circular living and community resilience.

  Full programme and event details:https://ecocommunitiesuk.com/event/chester-green-festival-14th-june-shaping-chesters-future/
• Share River cleanup on Facebook Share River cleanup on Twitter Share River cleanup on Linkedin Email River cleanup link

  River cleanup

  by Deva Canoe Club, 16 days ago
  

  As part of Paddle UK's Clear Access, Clear Waters campaign, Deva Canoe Club members took to the water in a mix of canoes, whitewater and sea kayaks to clean the river.

  
  

  Sadly there had been sewage discharges in the early morning after a thunderstorm. Gloves and litter pickers were made available and, after a safety briefing, members set off both up and down stream from the club, returning after a couple of hours with a fine selection of bottles, cans and plastic items. Bagged, these were left at a pre-arranged point for the council to collect.

  Deva club also... Continue reading

  As part of Paddle UK's Clear Access, Clear Waters campaign, Deva Canoe Club members took to the water in a mix of canoes, whitewater and sea kayaks to clean the river.

  
  

  Sadly there had been sewage discharges in the early morning after a thunderstorm. Gloves and litter pickers were made available and, after a safety briefing, members set off both up and down stream from the club, returning after a couple of hours with a fine selection of bottles, cans and plastic items. Bagged, these were left at a pre-arranged point for the council to collect.

  Deva club also supported the successful campaign to have Sandy Lane designated with bathing water status, see here for details.

  
  
• Share Chester Green Festival Returns with Talks, Workshops and Family Activities Across the City on Facebook Share Chester Green Festival Returns with Talks, Workshops and Family Activities Across the City on Twitter Share Chester Green Festival Returns with Talks, Workshops and Family Activities Across the City on Linkedin Email Chester Green Festival Returns with Talks, Workshops and Family Activities Across the City link

  Chester Green Festival Returns with Talks, Workshops and Family Activities Across the City

  19 days ago
  

  The free festival will bring together expert talks, eco stalls, workshops, arts, food and family-friendly activities across Chester Town Hall, Exchange Square and Picturehouse on 7 and 14 June.

  
  

  Residents from across Cheshire and visitors to the city are invited to take part in Chester Green Festival this June, a free two-part festival celebrating sustainability, creativity and community action.

  Taking place on Sunday 7 June and Sunday 14 June across Chester Town Hall, Exchange Square and Picturehouse, the festival will feature expert talks, workshops, eco stalls, arts and crafts, food and drink, films and family-friendly activities designed to inspire practical... Continue reading

  The free festival will bring together expert talks, eco stalls, workshops, arts, food and family-friendly activities across Chester Town Hall, Exchange Square and Picturehouse on 7 and 14 June.

  
  

  Residents from across Cheshire and visitors to the city are invited to take part in Chester Green Festival this June, a free two-part festival celebrating sustainability, creativity and community action.

  Taking place on Sunday 7 June and Sunday 14 June across Chester Town Hall, Exchange Square and Picturehouse, the festival will feature expert talks, workshops, eco stalls, arts and crafts, food and drink, films and family-friendly activities designed to inspire practical action for a greener future.

  Powered by Eco Communities UK and forming part of national Great Big Green Week, the festival will bring together local organisations, businesses, artists, campaigners and community groups from across the region to showcase practical ideas and positive solutions for greener living.

  Festival organisers say the event is designed to be welcoming and accessible for everyone; whether people want practical tips for living more sustainably, opportunities to connect with local groups, or simply a fun and inspiring family day out.

  The opening festival day on Sunday 7 June will launch the programme with community activities, creative events and opportunities for residents to explore local sustainability initiatives happening across Chester and Cheshire.

  The second festival day on Sunday 14 June will expand the programme with a full day of talks, interactive workshops, eco stalls, repair and reuse initiatives, arts activities and community conversations focused on shaping a greener future for the city.

  Helen Tandy, Founding Director of Eco Communities UK, said:

  “Chester Green Festival is all about bringing people together to explore practical, positive ways we can create a greener future for our communities.

  “We want people to leave feeling inspired and empowered – whether that’s discovering a local project, learning a new skill, making small changes at home or simply having conversations about the future we want for Chester.

  “Thanks to Cheshire West and Chester Council for helping to support us in this and other projects we are actioning using the Spacehive funding initiative to turn ideas into reality.”

  Visitors can expect a vibrant mix of expert speakers, local makers, sustainability organisations, creative workshops and hands-on activities covering topics including repair and reuse, food, nature, circular living and community resilience.

  Built on the legacy of Green Expo 2022-4 and Chester Green Weekend 2025 for the national Great Big Green Week celebrations, the festival aims to highlight the growing number of community-led projects and organisations already helping Cheshire become a more sustainable and connected place to live.

  Event details

  Chester Green Festival Launch Day

  • Town Hall Square and Exchange Square
  • 10am – 4pm, Sunday 7 June 2026
  • Free to attend

  More information:
  https://ecocommunitiesuk.com/event/chester-green-festival-launch-day-sunday-7th-june/

  Chester Green Festival – Shaping Chester’s Future

  • Chester Town Hall & Picturehouse
  • 10.30am – 7pm, Sunday 14 June 2026
  • Free to attend

  Full programme and event details:
  https://ecocommunitiesuk.com/event/chester-green-festival-14th-june-shaping-chesters-future/
• Share Eco Communities crowdfunding campaign needs your help on Facebook Share Eco Communities crowdfunding campaign needs your help on Twitter Share Eco Communities crowdfunding campaign needs your help on Linkedin Email Eco Communities crowdfunding campaign needs your help link

  Eco Communities crowdfunding campaign needs your help

  about 2 months ago
  

  Chester based Eco Communities UK has appealed for support towards the last £1,500 of its Spacehive crowd funding initiative with Cheshire West and Chester Council. So far it has raised 85% of its target but needs the additional donations to achieve 100% in the next 2 days.

  The campaign attracted many backers from across the community, unlocking funding from Cheshire West and Chester Council’s Climate Change Emergency Fund and Community Innovation Fund. The funding will support Chester Green Festival in the city on June 7^th and 14^th, and 4 new Community Refill Hubs across Cheshire with reusable... Continue reading

  Chester based Eco Communities UK has appealed for support towards the last £1,500 of its Spacehive crowd funding initiative with Cheshire West and Chester Council. So far it has raised 85% of its target but needs the additional donations to achieve 100% in the next 2 days.

  The campaign attracted many backers from across the community, unlocking funding from Cheshire West and Chester Council’s Climate Change Emergency Fund and Community Innovation Fund. The funding will support Chester Green Festival in the city on June 7^th and 14^th, and 4 new Community Refill Hubs across Cheshire with reusable Party kits for hire and sewing repair initiatives with training.
  
  

  Funders so far have said:

  “If everyone did their bit we can save so much! Amazing work you guys are doing. Keep going! You ARE making a difference. This is my way of acknowledging World Earth Day, in Cheshire and the North West UK.”

  “This is a fantastic project and I'm delighted to support it with a donation. I'm looking forward to attending Chester Green Festival in June!”

  “This is such an important project for our community and for its future. Great job!”

  Helen Tandy from Eco Communities UK said: “Communities across Cheshire West are calling for practical, everyday ways to move away from a throwaway culture and towards a more circular way of living – where items are repaired, reused and shared rather than binned.”

  “Previous generations repaired and repurposed. We want to bring that mindset back to Cheshire West,” Helen added. “Some of these projects already exist locally. Others are still dreams but we can only move forward with community support.”

  Residents can support the project by pledging from as little as £2 on the Spacehive crowdfunding platform. Find out more and support the project here: https://www.spacehive.com/full-circle-by-eco-communities

  Read more about the Fundraiser and Vote to bring a Refill Hub to where you live at ‘Bringing Circular Living to Life - Eco Communities’. Residents can also vote on where new refill hubs should be located via its website https://www.ecocommunitiesuk.com
• Share Brownies support planting of new wildflower meadow at Westminster Park on Facebook Share Brownies support planting of new wildflower meadow at Westminster Park on Twitter Share Brownies support planting of new wildflower meadow at Westminster Park on Linkedin Email Brownies support planting of new wildflower meadow at Westminster Park link

  Brownies support planting of new wildflower meadow at Westminster Park

  about 2 months ago
  

  The 18th Chester Brownies group joined the Friends of Westminster Park this spring to help sow a wildflower meadow in a section of the park.

  It was a true joint effort to get the site prepared with Cheshire West and Chester Council preparing the ground, using machinery provided by Nature Recovery Corridors and the Networks for Nature projects. Followed by volunteers doing the final ground prep. The brownies then came along to sow the seed. The group were able to learn lots of new skills as part of this activity, which contributed to helping them achieve their Go Outdoors Award... Continue reading

  The 18th Chester Brownies group joined the Friends of Westminster Park this spring to help sow a wildflower meadow in a section of the park.

  It was a true joint effort to get the site prepared with Cheshire West and Chester Council preparing the ground, using machinery provided by Nature Recovery Corridors and the Networks for Nature projects. Followed by volunteers doing the final ground prep. The brownies then came along to sow the seed. The group were able to learn lots of new skills as part of this activity, which contributed to helping them achieve their Go Outdoors Award, including using a map, identifying features (such as the pond), measuring out areas for sowing, weighing our the right amount of seed, mixing it with sand and then sowing it. Finally, they pressed it into the soil (not too hard, or "not like an elephant" as they were instructed).
  
  Each Brownie had their own area to sow across the 600m2 patch. Everyone had lots of fun getting involved and we can’t wait to see the area in bloom this summer.

  Wildflower meadows provide a lovely splash of colour across our communities but also play an important role providing rich nectar and pollen sources for bees, butterflies and other insects. Just one square metre of meadow can support hundreds of flowers, creating vital food and breeding habitats that also support birds, bats and small mammals.

  For practical guidance, local evidence and examples of meadow creation, visit Cheshire Wildlife Trust’s Pollinating Cheshire project:

  Cheshire Wildlife Trust – Pollinating Cheshire

  This page explains why wildflower meadows matter in Cheshire, how they are created using local seed, and how councils and communities can get involved.

  For information about the Friends of Westminster Park, visit: https://www.westminsterpark.org.uk/
• Share FREE FILM NIGHT: People's Emergency Briefing on Facebook Share FREE FILM NIGHT: People's Emergency Briefing on Twitter Share FREE FILM NIGHT: People's Emergency Briefing on Linkedin Email FREE FILM NIGHT: People's Emergency Briefing link

  FREE FILM NIGHT: People's Emergency Briefing

  2 months ago
  

  
  

  FREE FILM NIGHT: People's Emergency Briefing Friday 15th May Winsford Academy, Grange Lane, Winsford, CW7 2BT Film starts at 7.30pm. Doors open from 7pm Film is 50 minutes Conversation & Discussion afterwards The solutions are ready, but how do we convince our leaders to take them and make life better for everyone? Catch this amazing film, documenting the recent National Emergency Briefing. Community groups, like ours, are showing this across the country. Join us for an unforgettable and informative evening. The film will be followed by a discussion so everyone can share their thoughts. IT'S A FREE EVENT! Door's open

  ... Continue reading

  
  

  FREE FILM NIGHT: People's Emergency Briefing Friday 15th May Winsford Academy, Grange Lane, Winsford, CW7 2BT Film starts at 7.30pm. Doors open from 7pm Film is 50 minutes Conversation & Discussion afterwards The solutions are ready, but how do we convince our leaders to take them and make life better for everyone? Catch this amazing film, documenting the recent National Emergency Briefing. Community groups, like ours, are showing this across the country. Join us for an unforgettable and informative evening. The film will be followed by a discussion so everyone can share their thoughts. IT'S A FREE EVENT! Door's open at 7pm. Over 16's only - those aged 16-18 need to be attending with a person over 18. Book your free ticket here: https://buytickets.at/winsfordsustainabilitypartners/2152124 Check out the trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JaI-dHgh65Q Please email us if you would like to join a car share going to this event from Northwich Title your message 'CAR SHARE to FILM NIGHT': transitionnorthwich@gmx.com

  
  
• Share Hoole Goes Green with New Hub and Green Business Map on Facebook Share Hoole Goes Green with New Hub and Green Business Map on Twitter Share Hoole Goes Green with New Hub and Green Business Map on Linkedin Email Hoole Goes Green with New Hub and Green Business Map link

  Hoole Goes Green with New Hub and Green Business Map

  3 months ago
  

  
  

  Eco Communities and Hoole Community Centre are building on the success of last year’s Hoole Green Action Fair to launch two exciting new community initiatives in 2026, The Hoole Green Hub and The Hoole Green Business Map. Both will be officially launched as part of this year’s Hoole Green Festival, which opens with a community event at Hoole Community Centre on Saturday 28th March.

  Hoole Green Hub is a ‘Refill, Reuse & Repair’ scheme for the community there, linking directly with Eco Communities, the Hoole based community enterprise’s online Full Circle Shop.

  It will be the first location for Eco... Continue reading

  
  

  Eco Communities and Hoole Community Centre are building on the success of last year’s Hoole Green Action Fair to launch two exciting new community initiatives in 2026, The Hoole Green Hub and The Hoole Green Business Map. Both will be officially launched as part of this year’s Hoole Green Festival, which opens with a community event at Hoole Community Centre on Saturday 28th March.

  Hoole Green Hub is a ‘Refill, Reuse & Repair’ scheme for the community there, linking directly with Eco Communities, the Hoole based community enterprise’s online Full Circle Shop.

  It will be the first location for Eco Communities offering the collection and refill for laundry and cleaning products, saving tonnes of single-use plastic bottles each year.

  The Hub will also offer reusable party and event kits to hire, a drop-off point for hard-to-recycle medical blister packs, and support for practical ways residents can reduce waste and save money.

  The Hoole Green Business Map celebrates Hoole’s independent businesses and helps residents make more sustainable choices while shopping locally. The map encourages

  Shopping Local; Keeping money in the community and reducing transport emissions,

  Eating Seasonal, Local & Responsible Food from bakers and greengrocers to fishmongers and butchers; fresher food with fewer food miles.

  Eat Out Sustainably supporting cafés and restaurants prioritising local suppliers and seasonal menus,

  Refill & Reuse bringing your own containers and using refill options where available.

  It also Supports Local Artists by encouraging the choice of gifts and artwork from independent shops showcasing local creatives,

  Sustainable Fashion by shopping for second-hand and pre-loved items on the high street and encourages

  Repair, Don’t Replace extending the life of clothes and shoes using local repair services.

  Helen Tandy, Founder of Eco Communities said; “These two initiatives are about making it easy for people to live more sustainably. The Hoole Green Hub and Green Business Map give practical, local options that support both the planet and the community on our doorstep with plans to extend this concept into more parts of Cheshire.”

  She added; “The map isn’t just for the festival, it’s designed to be a lasting resource for the community. It will be updated annually by the not-for-profit team at Eco Communities, who support green projects at Hoole Community Centre and are also behind Chester Green Weekend each June.

  Printed maps will be available in Hoole businesses, and many Hoole residents will also receive copies through their doors through April.”

  Donna Collings, Manager, Hoole Community Centre summarised; “It’s brilliant to see sustainability made simple with the projects now in place. Having refills, repair options and local food all highlighted in one place makes it much easier for Hoole users to read about and make greener choices.”
• Share Chester students spotlight enterprising ideas after earning places in North West top 10% on Facebook Share Chester students spotlight enterprising ideas after earning places in North West top 10% on Twitter Share Chester students spotlight enterprising ideas after earning places in North West top 10% on Linkedin Email Chester students spotlight enterprising ideas after earning places in North West top 10% link

  Chester students spotlight enterprising ideas after earning places in North West top 10%

  by Felicity Roberts, 3 months ago
  

  
  

  University of Chester students showcased their innovative and eco-friendly business ideas after being chosen from more than 120 teams to compete at an event bringing together the North West’s most talented young entrepreneurs.

  Two teams from the University’s Business School earned places at the recent Young Enterprise North West Start-Up Awards Final, with one achieving a special accolade.

  VuelaNova and LatherCo were joined by 10 other teams from universities across the region, making up the top 10% in the North West, selected from all who entered to go forward to the stage of the competition. They pitched to the audience... Continue reading

  
  

  University of Chester students showcased their innovative and eco-friendly business ideas after being chosen from more than 120 teams to compete at an event bringing together the North West’s most talented young entrepreneurs.

  Two teams from the University’s Business School earned places at the recent Young Enterprise North West Start-Up Awards Final, with one achieving a special accolade.

  VuelaNova and LatherCo were joined by 10 other teams from universities across the region, making up the top 10% in the North West, selected from all who entered to go forward to the stage of the competition. They pitched to the audience and championed their ideas in interviews at Sister, at the Renold Building, in Manchester. Multiple expert panels questioned the teams on business viability, sustainability, financial planning and scalability.

  The competition forms part of the national Young Enterprise programme and is embedded within the University’s Creative Entrepreneurship module, which emphasises learning through the development and launch of real-world business ventures.

  VuelaNova is a sustainable 3D shoe printing service creating fully customised, anatomically matched footwear. Each pair is designed as a one-of-one product, tailored precisely to the customer’s foot structure, reducing waste while enhancing comfort and durability. Their innovative approach to sustainable manufacturing impressed judges across multiple panels, resulting in the team being presented with the Sustainability Award at the regional final.

  LatherCo has developed a self-contained make-up brush cleaning system designed to improve hygiene and efficiency for make-up users. The product provides an integrated cleaning solution that simplifies maintenance while promoting better cosmetic hygiene practices.

  While the teams just missed out on moving to the next stage, in addition to the special award, they have been applauded by organisers and their tutors for their business acumen and innovation.

  Cheryl Sørensen, Senior Lecturer at the University of Chester, said: “The two teams representing Chester Business School really showcased their confidence, professionalism, entrepreneurial resilience and passion for their business ideas.”

  She added that their achievement reflected not only the strength of their ideas, but also the impact of practice-based learning and entrepreneurial skill development at Chester Business School.

  Carlos Ronquillo, from VuelaNova, who was also nominated for Student of the Year, said: “It was a great experience where we got to meet the other leading start-ups in the North West region and receive valuable feedback from investors, industry experts, as well as academia professionals on how to continue developing.”

  He added that further updates on VuelaNova will be shared at: https://www.instagram.com/vuelanova

  Suzanne Lockwood, Start-Up Strategic Lead at Young Enterprise said: “Reaching the North West final is a fantastic achievement and a real testament to these students’ creativity, resilience and drive. At Young Enterprise, we are passionate about empowering students to turn ideas into real-world ventures, and both VuelaNova and LatherCo demonstrated exactly the kind of innovative thinking and problem solving that defines the entrepreneurial leaders of the future. We’re incredibly proud of what they’ve accomplished and excited to see where their ventures go next.”

  The Young Enterprise competition is embedded within Creative Entrepreneurship, a module studied as part of a range of Chester Business School courses including BA Business Management. The module is designed to move beyond theoretical learning by enabling students to:

  • Develop and validate real business ideas
  • Work in entrepreneurial teams
  • Engage with external stakeholders and judges
  • Respond to live feedback in competitive environments.

  The entrepreneurial journey has continued with a Business Launch Event at the University this month, featuring all 26 teams from the module presenting their business ideas to guests including alumni, entrepreneurs and business owners.
• Share Student volunteers join together for community litter pick on Facebook Share Student volunteers join together for community litter pick on Twitter Share Student volunteers join together for community litter pick on Linkedin Email Student volunteers join together for community litter pick link

  Student volunteers join together for community litter pick

  by Felicity Roberts, 4 months ago
  

  University of Chester students gave back to their community by carrying out a litter pick in the city, as part of a wide range of volunteering opportunities.

  The students recently joined together to remove litter from the streets of the Garden Quarter, collecting several bags of rubbish.

  The session was organised by the University’s Volunteering Team, and was one of the latest in its ‘Give it a Go’ programme, offering students the chance to try out volunteering through a variety of activities.

  In addition to giving students volunteering experience and a way to make a difference to their community, the... Continue reading

  University of Chester students gave back to their community by carrying out a litter pick in the city, as part of a wide range of volunteering opportunities.

  The students recently joined together to remove litter from the streets of the Garden Quarter, collecting several bags of rubbish.

  The session was organised by the University’s Volunteering Team, and was one of the latest in its ‘Give it a Go’ programme, offering students the chance to try out volunteering through a variety of activities.

  In addition to giving students volunteering experience and a way to make a difference to their community, the litter pick and wider sessions provide the opportunity to meet other students and take a break from their studies.

  Pinkett Howard, who was part of the team of nine student volunteers, said: “As an undergraduate student pursuing Marine Biology, I believe whether we appreciate the land or sea, every little effort that each individual does, makes a great difference in our community, nation, and globally. Our contributions, even small, can reduce negative impacts on the environment. Therefore, this motivates me to take part in opportunities such as the litter pick, provided by the Volunteering Team at the University of Chester, which allowed me and others to clean, restore and do our bit in saving our planet.”

  Fellow student volunteer, Jones Laura, commented: “Taking part in the litter pick was a rewarding experience, I enjoyed meeting new people and seeing how our efforts encouraged others to reflect on their own actions, like using nearby bins more thoughtfully. It was also inspiring to receive appreciation from the community, which reminded us how important and impactful volunteer work can be for the local area.”

  Student Ryan Melrose, who also gave up his time for the session, said: “It was nice to see an opportunity to give back to the local community and make the area tidier. Now, when I walk along the streets, I know that I was part of the change.”

  Amber Gaffoor, Venture and Volunteering Co-ordinator at the University of Chester, added: “It’s inspiring to see students step forward to create change by trying something new and simply giving back. These moments build confidence, connection, and a real sense of purpose. The litter pick is a great example of feeling part of the community and seeing the difference their actions make.”

  Another ‘Give it a Go’ session earlier this year brought together 12 students to make a total of 33 dog toys which have been donated to an animal rescue centre. Also recently, during National Student Volunteering Week (beginning February 9), 15 students turned their hands to building bird houses, making 31 which will be put up across the University’s Exton Park site by the Grounds and Gardens Team. Upcoming ‘Give it a Go’ sessions include wildlife recording.

  Any charities or not-for-profit organisations interested in working with the Volunteering Team to offer volunteering opportunities or to organise a ‘Give it a Go’ session, are asked to please email: volunteering@chester.ac.uk