Inspiring change together

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• Share Help to cover the cost of ‘Back to School’ on Facebook Share Help to cover the cost of ‘Back to School’ on X (formerly Twitter) Share Help to cover the cost of ‘Back to School’ on Linkedin Email Help to cover the cost of ‘Back to School’ link

  Help to cover the cost of ‘Back to School’

  about 1 year ago
  

  Believe it or not as we approach the end of another academic year some parents/guardians will soon be focussing on how to meet the costs of the new term beginning in September.

  After an initial trial last year, West Cheshire Credit Union are pleased to be offering a school uniform loan of up to £250, giving parents another option to turn to when it comes to meeting the costs. School shoes can often be one of the more expensive items of a school uniform, so small loans are available to cover this cost.
  
  The loan scheme aims to complement other... Continue reading

  Believe it or not as we approach the end of another academic year some parents/guardians will soon be focussing on how to meet the costs of the new term beginning in September.

  After an initial trial last year, West Cheshire Credit Union are pleased to be offering a school uniform loan of up to £250, giving parents another option to turn to when it comes to meeting the costs. School shoes can often be one of the more expensive items of a school uniform, so small loans are available to cover this cost.
  
  The loan scheme aims to complement other options that are available, such as School Uniform Banks, other school uniform providers and the preloved clothing sector – all of whom have a collective part to play in ensuring school uniforms are affordable.

  Loan Example
  £250 over 52 weekly repayments
  Repayments £5.78 per week
  Total interest charged £48 (42.6% Representative APR)
  Total repayable £298
  
  Repayments can be made via your Child Benefit or by Standing Order.
  
  The application window is now open and closes 31 August 2025 – www.wccu.co.uk/uniform-loan
  For more information you can call the team on 01244 399006

  
  The following applies to all applications

  • No pre saving is required
  • Must become a member of West Cheshire Credit Union
  • Maximum application amount – £250
  • Repayments over 52 weeks / 12 months
  • Can apply even if currently have an existing Family Loan with West Cheshire Credit Union.
  • All applications are reviewed on affordability (as a responsible lender)

  
  A credit union is a member-owned financial cooperative that provides a range of financial services, such as savings accounts and loans to its members. They are run on a not-for-profit basis, meaning any profits generated are either reinvested into the credit union to benefit members or distributed back to members in the form of dividends.
• Share Changing Lives Together – Buddy and Befriending Service on Facebook Share Changing Lives Together – Buddy and Befriending Service on X (formerly Twitter) Share Changing Lives Together – Buddy and Befriending Service on Linkedin Email Changing Lives Together – Buddy and Befriending Service link

  Changing Lives Together – Buddy and Befriending Service

  about 1 year ago
  

  Our buddy and befriending service is there to help people across Cheshire who are over 18 and are lonely or living with social isolation, simply by giving them the opportunity to talk. We can help people through either telephone befriending or community based befriending.

  This is how it works
  Our clients are either self-referred or referred by one of our partner agencies, such as GP surgeries, social prescribers or other organisations or charities. Our dedicated team assess each referral on an individual basis depending on the person’s circumstances and requirements.

  For those who would like to interact with others our... Continue reading

  Our buddy and befriending service is there to help people across Cheshire who are over 18 and are lonely or living with social isolation, simply by giving them the opportunity to talk. We can help people through either telephone befriending or community based befriending.

  This is how it works
  Our clients are either self-referred or referred by one of our partner agencies, such as GP surgeries, social prescribers or other organisations or charities. Our dedicated team assess each referral on an individual basis depending on the person’s circumstances and requirements.

  For those who would like to interact with others our team would recommend one of our Warm Welcome Groups or a group near to where they live.

  If the person being referred has physical disabilities or other reasons that prevent them from leaving their home, then they will be offered the telephone service. They will then be matched with a suitable volunteer based on their likes, hobbies and interests.

  Anyone who starts out by receiving telephone support and then feels that they would like to attend a group and meet new people they will be offered the opportunity to start attending a Warm Welcome Group.

  Could our service help you…
  …if so, take that first step and speak to your GP surgery, social prescriber or other organisation or charity. You can also refer yourself, a friend or family member.

  We’re always on the lookout for volunteers
  If you’d like to get involved and help other people, call or email us and one of our friendly coordinators will arrange a date and time to complete your sign-up information.

  Changing Lives Together contact information

  Tel: 07919327131
  Email: befriending@changing-lives-together.org.uk
  Online: www.changing-lives-together.org.uk/buddy-and-befriending
• Share Brio’s Integrated Wellbeing Services: Looking after your health shouldn't come at a cost on Facebook Share Brio’s Integrated Wellbeing Services: Looking after your health shouldn't come at a cost on X (formerly Twitter) Share Brio’s Integrated Wellbeing Services: Looking after your health shouldn't come at a cost on Linkedin Email Brio’s Integrated Wellbeing Services: Looking after your health shouldn't come at a cost link

  Brio’s Integrated Wellbeing Services: Looking after your health shouldn't come at a cost

  about 1 year ago
  

  
  As the cost of living continues to impact communities across Cheshire West and Chester, Brio is offering a range of free wellbeing services to support local residents to stay active, live healthier lives and remain independent during these challenging times. Whether you’re trying to manage your weight, quit smoking or reduce your risk of falling, our Integrated Wellbeing Services are here to help.
  
  These services are designed to remove barriers to health and wellbeing, especially for individuals and families experiencing financial pressures. All programmes are free to eligible participants and are delivered locally in community settings, making it easier than... Continue reading

  
  As the cost of living continues to impact communities across Cheshire West and Chester, Brio is offering a range of free wellbeing services to support local residents to stay active, live healthier lives and remain independent during these challenging times. Whether you’re trying to manage your weight, quit smoking or reduce your risk of falling, our Integrated Wellbeing Services are here to help.
  
  These services are designed to remove barriers to health and wellbeing, especially for individuals and families experiencing financial pressures. All programmes are free to eligible participants and are delivered locally in community settings, making it easier than ever to take that first step towards better health.

  Tier 2 Adult Weight Management Programme

  A 12-week programme that blends physical activity, nutrition advice, and personalised support to help people lose weight and feel healthier. Participants also receive follow-ups at 6 and 12 months to keep them on track.

  Who is eligible?

  • Aged 18 years or over
  • Resident or registered with a GP in Cheshire West and Chester
  • BMI ≥30 (adjusted to ≥27.5 for Black African, African-Caribbean and Asian populations)
  • Diagnosed with one of the following:
  • Learning disability
  • Severe mental illness (bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or psychosis)
  • Hypertension (prescribed antihypertensive medication)
  • Physical disability affecting the ability to exercise

  Go Smokefree Programme

  A 12-week stop smoking service that offers free Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) and personalised support, available by phone, appointment or drop-in. Focused on helping those most affected by health inequalities.

  Who is eligible?

  • Aged 12 years or over, motivated to quit smoking
  • Resident or registered with a GP in Cheshire West and Chester
  • Smoked tobacco in the last two weeks or started a quit attempt through the NHS Tobacco Dependency Treatment Service

  Falls Prevention Programme

  This 25-week programme supports older adults to stay mobile and independent. Weekly strength and balance classes are complemented by at-home exercises and home safety education.

  Who is eligible?

  • Aged 65 or over
  • Resident or registered with a GP in Cheshire West and Chester
  • Assessed as having a low to medium risk of falls

  How to access support

  You can be referred by a GP, health or social care professional – or in some cases you can self-refer (for the Go Smokefree Programme).

  If you or someone you support could benefit from this service, don’t wait. Brio is here to help.

  Find out more

  To discover more about Brio Wellbeing and explore all our free services and programmes, please visit our new website.

  Brio’s Integrated Wellbeing Services

  
  

  
  
• Share Citizens Advice Energy Team on Facebook Share Citizens Advice Energy Team on X (formerly Twitter) Share Citizens Advice Energy Team on Linkedin Email Citizens Advice Energy Team link

  Citizens Advice Energy Team

  about 1 year ago
  

  
  We’re here to help you make your home more energy-efficient, reduce your energy bills, and take control of your energy use. Whether you own or rent, our team offers expert advice, guidance, and resources to help you save energy and money.

  Energy Advice – Free & Confidential

  Our trained advisors provide tailored advice to help you reduce your energy usage, save on bills, and make your home more energy efficient. We offer advice through the following channels:

  • Home visits
  • Telephone appointments
  • In-office appointments

  We’ll help you understand your energy bills, explain tariffs, and ensure you’re on the best energy plan... Continue reading

  
  We’re here to help you make your home more energy-efficient, reduce your energy bills, and take control of your energy use. Whether you own or rent, our team offers expert advice, guidance, and resources to help you save energy and money.

  Energy Advice – Free & Confidential

  Our trained advisors provide tailored advice to help you reduce your energy usage, save on bills, and make your home more energy efficient. We offer advice through the following channels:

  • Home visits
  • Telephone appointments
  • In-office appointments

  We’ll help you understand your energy bills, explain tariffs, and ensure you’re on the best energy plan for your needs. If you’re struggling to pay your bills, we’ll help you access financial support options appropriate for you.

  Advice and information is also available on current energy grants and schemes, and referral pathways for council grants (which can include, subject to eligibility, the installation of new first time central heating systems, boiler upgrades and insulation); how to make and support applications to trust funds and help to sign up to the priority service register.

  • How we helped in 2024
  • 200 home visits
  • 3,000 households provided with in-depth energy advice through appointments, phone, email and drop-in events
  • Over 4,000 households helped with light touch energy saving information at community events
  • 1132 households helped with heating costs through our Heating Bank
    
    

  To request a telephone assessment and for more information visit our website at
  www.citizensadvicecw.org.uk/our-projects/energy-advice-service/
  
  

  Sara	Kay	Richard	Lisa

  
  

  Case Study

  Bernard lives alone, is self-employed and in receipt of Universal Credit. Worsening physical and mental health made it harder for Bernard to work, reducing his income significantly. Bernard’s home had no central heating, relying on a coal fire for heat and back boiler for hot water. Bernard was struggling to afford to buy coal and living in cold conditions. Our Energy Adviser was able to provide crisis support, supplying coal, logs, duvets and blankets through the Household Support Fund and identified that Bernard was eligible for the government ECO4 grant. Bernard’s grant application was successful, and he had first time central heating installed into his home, resulting in better energy efficiency, more affordable energy bills and a warm home with hot water, having a positive impact on his wellbeing.
• Share Buy safe and stay safe on Facebook Share Buy safe and stay safe on X (formerly Twitter) Share Buy safe and stay safe on Linkedin Email Buy safe and stay safe link

  Buy safe and stay safe

  about 1 year ago
  

  
  Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service understands that buying electrical items can be costly. With the added expense of everyday life, it might be tempting to cut costs when shopping for electrical products. However, doing so can pose serious fire safety risks.

  To keep your home and loved ones safe, follow these simple tips:

  Shop smart, shop safe: Always buy electrical products from trusted, reputable retailers. Check for the British or European safety mark.

  Charge with care: Use the correct charger for your device and avoid charging devices overnight or unattended. Don’t overload extension leads and never mix incompatible chargers or... Continue reading

  
  Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service understands that buying electrical items can be costly. With the added expense of everyday life, it might be tempting to cut costs when shopping for electrical products. However, doing so can pose serious fire safety risks.

  To keep your home and loved ones safe, follow these simple tips:

  Shop smart, shop safe: Always buy electrical products from trusted, reputable retailers. Check for the British or European safety mark.

  Charge with care: Use the correct charger for your device and avoid charging devices overnight or unattended. Don’t overload extension leads and never mix incompatible chargers or batteries. Do not charge products in hallways or escape routes in case a fire starts.

  Follow the manual: Check that the product comes with the correct instructions or registration card. Read the manual to ensure you're using the item safely and correctly.

  Check for wear and tear: Regularly check for frayed or worn cables and wires. Scorch marks on sockets and plugs indicate overheating. Keep your electricals clean and in good working order.

  Have a concern? If you suspect a product is unsafe, stop using it immediately. Contact the manufacturer or Citizens Advice to report unsafe items and help protect others.

  Remember, in case of a fire, Get Out, Stay Out, and Call 999.

  Find more electrical safety tips on our website and learn about safer purchasing of e-bikes and e-scooters on the gov.uk website.
• Share Cheshire age UK - Scams Awareness and Home Hazzard Assessments on Facebook Share Cheshire age UK - Scams Awareness and Home Hazzard Assessments on X (formerly Twitter) Share Cheshire age UK - Scams Awareness and Home Hazzard Assessments on Linkedin Email Cheshire age UK - Scams Awareness and Home Hazzard Assessments link

  Cheshire age UK - Scams Awareness and Home Hazzard Assessments

  over 1 year ago
  

  Older Persons Scams Awareness and Aftercare

  Each year in Cheshire, more than 5,000 people report being victims of scams and fraud, costing them over £20 million. Scammers are criminals who commit fraud. They target older people more than any other group.

  Age UK Cheshire are partnering with Cheshire West & Chester Council's Trading Standards Team to raise awareness of scams and doorstep crime amongst local older people, and support those who have been scammed to not become a repeat victim.

  This project helps older people, across the whole of Cheshire, to be resilient against scams and provides advice and support... Continue reading

  Older Persons Scams Awareness and Aftercare

  Each year in Cheshire, more than 5,000 people report being victims of scams and fraud, costing them over £20 million. Scammers are criminals who commit fraud. They target older people more than any other group.

  Age UK Cheshire are partnering with Cheshire West & Chester Council's Trading Standards Team to raise awareness of scams and doorstep crime amongst local older people, and support those who have been scammed to not become a repeat victim.

  This project helps older people, across the whole of Cheshire, to be resilient against scams and provides advice and support to victims of fraud.

  We offer a range of services to groups and individuals.

  • Personal scams advice sessions for anyone over the age of 50
  • Support for people who have been a victim of scams and frauds
  • Awareness-raising sessions about fraud to groups of older people or volunteers and people who work with older people
  • Scams awareness update bulletin

  To book any of the above services or for more information, telephone: 01625 612958 or email scams@ageukcheshire.org.uk
  
  Sponsored by:

  Home Hazard Assessment and Advice

  Age UK Cheshire’s Home Hazard team provide free, impartial and confidential advice about home hazards. The service aims to reduce falls at home by assessing an individual’s home and providing guidance on how to keep safe and well.
  
  This is a free service open to people aged 55 and over, which includes:

  • home assessments to residents in Cheshire West and Chester
  • advice on how to keep safe at home
  • advice on how to reduce the risk of falls at home
  • signposting to services which may be able to offer additional support
  • onward referral (with consent) to other services which may offer additional support.

  To discuss the service, make a referral or book a home visit, contact the team on:
  Telephone: 01244 408162
  Email: CHF@ageukcheshire.org,uk
  Opening times: Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm

  For more information on Cheshire age UK services, visit: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/cheshire/our-services/
• Share Safe tyres save lives – and money on Facebook Share Safe tyres save lives – and money on X (formerly Twitter) Share Safe tyres save lives – and money on Linkedin Email Safe tyres save lives – and money link

  Safe tyres save lives – and money

  over 1 year ago
  

  Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service offers practical advice to keep your vehicle safe. Well-maintained tyres don’t just enhance safety - they last longer, save money, and boost fuel efficiency.

  Check your tyres monthly – Inspect the pressure, tread depth, and look for any signs of wear or damage. Find safety guidance at: cheshirefire.gov.uk/your-safety/car-safety.

  Keep your wheels aligned – Misaligned tyres can lead to uneven or rapid wear, cause the car to pull to one side, vibrate the steering wheel, or create noise at low speeds.

  Use the right tyres – Choose tyres designed for reduced rolling resistance and better... Continue reading

  Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service offers practical advice to keep your vehicle safe. Well-maintained tyres don’t just enhance safety - they last longer, save money, and boost fuel efficiency.

  Check your tyres monthly – Inspect the pressure, tread depth, and look for any signs of wear or damage. Find safety guidance at: cheshirefire.gov.uk/your-safety/car-safety.

  Keep your wheels aligned – Misaligned tyres can lead to uneven or rapid wear, cause the car to pull to one side, vibrate the steering wheel, or create noise at low speeds.

  Use the right tyres – Choose tyres designed for reduced rolling resistance and better fuel efficiency for longer-lasting performance.

  Drive with care – Avoid sudden acceleration, sharp braking, fast cornering, or hitting kerbs, as these can damage your tyres.

  Lighten your load – Clear unnecessary weight from your car to reduce strain on your tyres.

  For more road safety tips, visit: cheshirefire.gov.uk/your-safety/road-safety.
• Share Free impartial advice to help you take control of your bills, save energy at home and access additional support. on Facebook Share Free impartial advice to help you take control of your bills, save energy at home and access additional support. on X (formerly Twitter) Share Free impartial advice to help you take control of your bills, save energy at home and access additional support. on Linkedin Email Free impartial advice to help you take control of your bills, save energy at home and access additional support. link

  Free impartial advice to help you take control of your bills, save energy at home and access additional support.

  over 1 year ago
  

  
  Green Doctors work with public and private partners to ensure support reaches those who need it most in local communities.

  Support is available to a wide range of people so if you’re finding it hard to heat your home, worried about how you’re going to manage your energy or water bill, have a health condition affected by the cold then we might be able to help.

  Our support includes:

  • the installation of small energy saving measures such as draughtproofing and radiator foils
  • help with boiler and heating controls
  • smart meters / water meters
  • fuel and water debt
  • registration on suppliers’... Continue reading

  
  Green Doctors work with public and private partners to ensure support reaches those who need it most in local communities.

  Support is available to a wide range of people so if you’re finding it hard to heat your home, worried about how you’re going to manage your energy or water bill, have a health condition affected by the cold then we might be able to help.

  Our support includes:

  • the installation of small energy saving measures such as draughtproofing and radiator foils
  • help with boiler and heating controls
  • smart meters / water meters
  • fuel and water debt
  • registration on suppliers’ Priority Services Register
  • grants
  • behavioural change advice
  • referrals for free gas safety checks
  • financial assistance where available.

  The scheme is open to residents across Cheshire West and Chester with a focus on families and individuals who:

  • have a low household income
  • are living with debt
  • are aged over 65
  • are living with a health condition affected by the cold
  • are living with mental illness
  • are living with dementia
  • have a disability
  • are young people and families containing children under the age of 5
  • are pregnant
  • are in emergency accommodation
  • are living in poor housing conditions.

  As we head towards winter it’s important to reach out for help if you need it. For more information, visit: www.groundwork.org.uk/greendoctor

  Email: greendoctor.CLM@groundwork.org.uk or

  Phone: 0330 1740 863
• Share New Community Café at Road Two, Winsford on Facebook Share New Community Café at Road Two, Winsford on X (formerly Twitter) Share New Community Café at Road Two, Winsford on Linkedin Email New Community Café at Road Two, Winsford link

  New Community Café at Road Two, Winsford

  over 1 year ago

  The new community café, which is more than just a café, opened to the public earlier this year. As well as being a fabulous place to meet new people and enjoy a coffee or a bite to eat, it also showcases a range of beautiful furniture that is available to buy through the ReUse Warehouse next door.

  Located on Road Two, Winsford Industrial Estate, the café is open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 3pm.
  
  
  
  You don’t have to be from the local area to enjoy what’s on offer. So, why not pop along for some great value food and... Continue reading

  The new community café, which is more than just a café, opened to the public earlier this year. As well as being a fabulous place to meet new people and enjoy a coffee or a bite to eat, it also showcases a range of beautiful furniture that is available to buy through the ReUse Warehouse next door.

  Located on Road Two, Winsford Industrial Estate, the café is open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 3pm.
  
  
  
  You don’t have to be from the local area to enjoy what’s on offer. So, why not pop along for some great value food and drink and find out what other services are available.

  The café and additional services have been made possible by Changing Lives Together, a charity whose mission is to find innovative solutions for environmental and social challenges that benefit local communities.
• Share Walking Further Together - On Tour on Facebook Share Walking Further Together - On Tour on X (formerly Twitter) Share Walking Further Together - On Tour on Linkedin Email Walking Further Together - On Tour link

  Walking Further Together - On Tour

  almost 2 years ago
  

  Walking Further Together is an interactive exhibition of the lived experience of poverty, designed to challenge stigma and shape how we respond to the increased cost of living. The exhibition promotes a greater understanding of the struggle against poverty and how co-production can reinforce the ethos of 'Nothing about us without us is for us'.

  Residents across the borough will now have the opportunity to drop in and see parts of the exhibition within west Cheshire's libraries. The exhibition on tour will include pieces of art, audio and visual displays. The session aims to be interactive and thought... Continue reading

  Walking Further Together is an interactive exhibition of the lived experience of poverty, designed to challenge stigma and shape how we respond to the increased cost of living. The exhibition promotes a greater understanding of the struggle against poverty and how co-production can reinforce the ethos of 'Nothing about us without us is for us'.

  Residents across the borough will now have the opportunity to drop in and see parts of the exhibition within west Cheshire's libraries. The exhibition on tour will include pieces of art, audio and visual displays. The session aims to be interactive and thought provoking, highlighting how we can walk further by doing things together.

  The exhibition is aimed at anyone who is interested in the value of life experience, coproduction and working together with communities and individuals.

  There will also be support and information available about local support services.

  Exhibition dates

  14 - 18 Oct - Winsford Library, High Street, Winsford CW7 2AS

  18 - 22 Nov - Blacon Library, The Parade Enterprise Centre, 14 The Parade, Blacon CH1 5HN

  16 - 20 Dec - Ellesmere Port Library, Civic Way, Ellesmere Port CH65 0BG

  20 - 24 Jan - Neston Library, Parkgate Road, Neston CH64 6QE
  
  Comments from visitors to the exhibition

  'No one should be deprived of their basic human rights. We should work collectively to end poverty and make people feel heard'
  
  'Today's experience at the exhibition made me more empathetic, enlightened and privileged. I am inspired to give back to society and help people in need'

  
  The exhibition has been developed as part of a recent collaboration between the Social Justice research team and Community Inspirers from the West Cheshire Poverty Truth Commission.