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In addition to the programmes we offer, we run regular community, arts and social workshops. Workshops are perfect for those who may not be able to commit to weekly sessions – come along, spend time with others, make new friends and learn a new skill!
At Positive Smiles, we’re proud to have hosted an inspiring online event in honour of International Women’s Day, centred around the powerful theme #ChooseToChallenge. This interactive session brought together local and professional women, as well as passionate allies, to connect, reflect and raise their voices in support of gender equality.
The event was a celebration of the strength, resilience and brilliance of women and girls who continue to shape a fairer, more inclusive world. Through open discussion, thought-provoking talks and shared experiences, we explored how both women and men can challenge inequality and take meaningful steps toward change.
With a fantastic turnout of attendees and guest speakers, the evening was not only an opportunity to celebrate progress—it also offered space for networking, sharing knowledge, and recognising the achievements of women across a range of industries and backgrounds. Past speakers have included:
On behalf of Positive Smiles, we would like to say a huge Thank You to everyone who attended and to our fantastic guest speakers! We have collated some of their videos, to share with you. Feel free to get in touch for further information on the event, or how to join in for future events – info@positivesmiles.co.uk
Bringing you a free telephone befriending support service, delivering 1-1 multi-lingual weekly calls from a member of the team, operating for those who wish to make a new friend, have a conversation, or share a worry. Its important to remember that no matter what the pandemic has brought you, it is okay to feel anxious, worried, down, maybe even positive during these challenging times.
We have an experienced team operating in Blackburn with Darwen and Rochdale, who are available to talk regularly, as not having this support can become lonely, particularly in the current global pandemic.
Madat 24/7 is a free telephone friendship service, mainly for people aged 50 and over, though extending to other individual as required. We will match each person with a like-minded person from our pool of volunteers, who are keen to make a new friend and provide support. Not having someone to talk to regularly can be lonely, particularly in the current global pandemic, and these are people who have been used to sharing their home and time with others.
Positive Smiles aims to provide talking and listening therapies, registration onto courses and programs to enhance functional, wellbeing or employability skills accordingly, and making relevant referrals and signposting onto partnering agencies and other organisations for additional support. Weekly calls will assist individuals in developing healthy and positive coping strategies, boosting self confidence and self-esteem, promoting creating new hobbies and developing new skills despite the pandemic.
To register or find out more information, email us at info@positivesmiles.co.uk
The demographics indicate Greater Manchester is highlighted as one of the areas with the highest levels of unemployment and training opportunities. Currently 11.3 million adults in the UK lack one or more of the basic digital skills, and 7.4 million of these have some skills but are considered limited users of the internet. Positive Smiles is supporting the delivery of a project by Get SET Academy, to help individuals who use the internet in a limited way gain the confidence and digital skills they need to ‘thrive online’ – becoming regular, confident, capable and safe users of digital technology. The ‘Everyone Thrives Online’ programme aims to help adults achieve positive life and work outcomes, particularly around employment, by supporting them to understand how digital skills can change their life, and give the practical skills and knowledge to build their confidence to do so.
To register or find out more information, email us at info@positivesmiles.co.uk
Currently, over 7 million people in the UK are online but not getting enough from the internet and aren’t improving their digital skills. Compared to people who are not online at all, they are more likely to be seeking work or in low-paid employment.
Make it Click is a new project aimed to support people who often don’t receive support or fall through the gaps. Positive Smiles is supporting Alphabet Training to deliver this programme to build confidence, help learn new skills, and support individuals to achieve positive employment outcomes.
The project is for anyone who wishes to improve their digital skills. This may mean gaining more experience with using the internet or taking on a new challenge, like learning an app, improve skills you already have, and take a positive step forward in your work. Group deliver, remote learning and 1-1 support is available, with tutor guidance and check in appointments also.
Download a copy of our latest flyer here.
To register or find out more information, email us at info@positivesmiles.co.uk
Hazelwood
41 Bury Road
Haslingden
BB4 5PG
Central Buildings
Richmond Terrace
Blackburn
BB1 7AP
All Souls-Bolton
Astley Street
Bolton
BL1 8EY