Colleagues at two NCG colleges have demonstrated the power of community spirit and generosity, after hundreds of colleagues volunteered their time to support improvement projects across Carlisle and West Lancashire.

Carlisle College and West Lancashire College both took part in ‘Give a Day’ initiatives during July, bringing together staff, local authorities, businesses, charities and community organisations to deliver projects that make a tangible difference in the communities they serve.

In Carlisle, more than 150 colleagues supported 14 projects as part of the city's long-established Give a Day to the City initiative. Activities included painting, gardening, building and maintenance work at schools, community centres, care homes, charities and local organisations.

Lee Todd, Assistant Principal at Carlisle College said: "Carlisle College holds the community close to its heart and reflects the values of the city; hard work, resilience, inclusivity, and aspiration. Our colleagues are all very proud of the difference they make every day and our ongoing commitment to helping the community to thrive. Supporting the annual 'Give a Day' project is a prime example of what we do."

Meanwhile, West Lancashire College organised and hosted its first-ever Give a Day, delivered in partnership with West Lancashire Borough Council.

Staff worked with partners and volunteers to make a visible difference across the borough in a day of community spirit that led to new partnerships and a number of legacy projects that students will continue to support in the new academic year.

Colleagues supported 11 projects across Skelmersdale and Ormskirk, carrying out environmental improvements, enhancing public spaces and decorating community facilities such as The Liberty Centre, part of West Lancashire Women's Refuge.

Angie Quinn, Chief Executive Officer of The Liberty Centre, said: "The transformation of the lounge is amazing. Our staff have commented on how much calmer, brighter and more relaxing the space now feels, creating a welcoming environment for the women and children who call our safe accommodation home.

"As a charity, every pound we save can be redirected towards supporting survivors of domestic abuse, so the donation of both materials and time from West Lancashire College has been invaluable.

"Our staff spoke about how wonderful it was to see our service users chatting with volunteers, making drinks for them, and looking after them in return. Those simple acts of kindness and connection meant so much and reminded us of all of the positive impact that communities can have when they come together."

The events are powerful examples of NCG's place-based model in action, reflecting its commitment to creating meaningful local impact in its college communities.  Together, they saw hundreds of staff volunteer their time and skills to support local communities, while strengthening partnerships with civic leaders, employers and community organisations.

Alongside delivering ambitious teaching, innovative curriculum and outstanding learning environments, NCG and its colleges are committed to making a positive difference beyond the classroom through strong civic partnerships and community engagement. This commitment offers colleagues one day a year to spend volunteering in their local community, fundraising or working for a non-profit.

Liz Bromley, CEO of NCG, added: "These initiatives are a brilliant example of the role colleges play in the communities they serve. Further education colleges do far more than provide qualifications and training, they are important community anchors, bringing people together, supporting local priorities and helping places to thrive.

“While our colleges benefit from the strength, expertise and opportunities that come with being part of a national college group, they remain deeply rooted in their local communities. The work carried out by colleagues at Carlisle College and West Lancashire College shows the positive difference colleges can make when they work alongside local partners to support the people and places they serve.

“We're incredibly proud of the commitment shown by our colleagues, whose efforts have helped strengthen community connections, support local organisations and make a lasting impact in the areas our colleges call home."