27/05/2026
What an incredible day! A couple of weeks ago we joined Peterborough Council for Voluntary Service for their Learning & Skills programme celebrations at the Allia Business Centre in Peterborough - and we're still feeling inspired.
This programme exists for a really important reason: sometimes the people who need support the most don't feel confident or welcome in formal learning environments. But they might pop along to their local charity hub, try something new, build some confidence - and that first small step can change everything.
Funded by the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority using Adult Skills funding from central government, this round supported 13 projects - helping people improve their confidence, reduce social isolation, boost their mental health, and take positive steps towards employment or volunteering.
At the celebration, we had the privilege of hearing directly from participants about what the programme has meant to them. One person supported by The Woman You Are shared this:
"Before joining the programme, I felt stuck, overwhelmed, and unsure about my future. I didn't believe I could succeed. Through the support, training, and encouragement I received, I completed my course, built my confidence, and secured a new job. For the first time in a long while, I feel hopeful and motivated about my future and what I can achieve."
That says it all, really 💛
We're so proud to have played a part in this work, alongside the Combined Authority and all the brilliant teams who poured their hearts into these programmes. The day was a reminder of what's possible when communities, organisations and funders come together.
Thank you to everyone involved 👏
Photo details: Grants Officer Kate Fry shares the afternoon celebrations with some of the amazing causes supported by the Learning & Skills Programme
