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Annual Report by ICTComms

When we first brought our eldest son to the nursery in September 2024, we were filled with both hope and anxiety. We understood English reasonably well, but speaking it was difficult. We worried constantly about being misunderstood or missing important information about our child’s day.

Those first weeks were challenging. Our son clung to us during drop-offs, struggling to settle in this unfamiliar place. We wanted to explain his routines and what comforted him, but the language barrier made everything harder. We’d smile and nod during pick-up, catching some words but missing others, always hesitant to ask staff to repeat themselves.

Gradually, things improved. Our son discovered a love for building and construction, creating impressive towers and patterns. The staff’s patience and warmth helped him flourish despite our communication struggles. By July 2025, when he left, he had transformed into a confident, independent learner. We knew we’d made the right choice, even though it had been difficult.

When our second son was ready to start in September 2025, we didn’t hesitate to return. We trusted this nursery. But then something extraordinary happened. On our first visit, one of the staff members greeted us in Arabic. She was a new children and families apprentice, and suddenly we could express everything we’d been holding back—our hopes, concerns, questions—in our own language.

The difference was remarkable. Where our eldest had taken weeks to settle, our younger son felt comfortable within days. Having someone who could speak to him in Arabic gave him an anchor. When he felt uncertain, she could reassure him in words he fully understood. He wasn’t navigating everything alone the way his brother had.

Now, just months later, our youngest actively participates in activities and experiments with English words. He listens carefully and mimics what he hears, unafraid to try. The nursery has become a safe place where he can take linguistic risks, knowing support is there if he needs it.

For us as parents, the transformation has been equally profound. We no longer dread conversations with staff or worry about missing crucial information. We can have real discussions about our son’s development, share stories from home, and ask questions we’ve carried for too long. These conversations with the apprentice have made us more comfortable with all the staff, and we’ve formed genuine relationships with the entire team.

For the first time, we feel like true partners in our children’s education. We’re involved, informed, and valued. The difference between our two sons’ experiences has shown us how much language matters. Our eldest thrived despite the barriers, but our youngest is thriving because those barriers have been removed.

We’re committed to supporting both boys as they develop their English while maintaining their Arabic. The nursery’s approach has shown us they don’t have to choose—they can be bilingual, proud of their heritage while embracing their community. This experience has given our entire family a sense of belonging we never thought we’d find, and it’s made all the difference.

After enduring two major operations within a single year, I found myself at a crossroads. My body had been through so much, and while I was determined to rebuild my strength and fitness, I knew the traditional gym environment wasn’t right for me. I needed something that would feel less like rehabilitation and more like rediscovery—something enjoyable rather than overwhelming.
Recovery had taken its toll in ways I hadn’t fully anticipated. Beyond the physical limitations, I’d become increasingly isolated. The social connections I once took for granted had quietly faded during months of hospital visits and convalescence. I knew I needed to reconnect with my community, but one of the most frustrating challenges was simply not knowing where to start. What activities existed in my local area? How could I get involved when I barely had the energy to search? The information gap felt like yet another barrier when I was already facing so many.
Everything changed when I spoke with my community connector through the “Wellbeing Matters” program. They understood what I was looking for—something gentle, social, and meaningful—and referred me to the Green and Grow group. From my very first session, I knew I’d found something special.
Thursday has become the highlight of my week. It’s the day I genuinely look forward to, when I can spend time outdoors, breathing fresh air and feeling the soil between my fingers. The change has been remarkable, both physically and mentally. As I’ve gotten stuck into gardening tasks—growing vegetables, selecting flowers for the beds, maintaining our green space—I’ve noticed my strength steadily returning. But it’s happening naturally, without the pressure or monotony I’d dreaded.
What makes Green and Grow truly different is that I’m not just a participant; I have a voice. When we discuss what to plant next or how to organize our space, my opinions matter. This sense of involvement has been incredibly empowering. After months of being a patient—of things being done to me rather than with me—being able to contribute to decisions has helped me feel like myself again.
Perhaps the most surprising transformation has been the friendships I’ve formed. I’ve connected with people who share my interests and understand the value of this time together. These aren’t superficial relationships—they’re genuine connections built on shared purpose and mutual support. I never want to miss a session because each one reinforces my sense of belonging and gives me something positive to focus on beyond my own recovery.
I’ve learned new skills I never expected to develop, from companion planting techniques to seasonal crop rotation. My confidence has grown alongside the vegetables in our beds. And there’s profound joy in the simple moments: the satisfaction of a successful harvest, the camaraderie of our tea breaks, and yes, even the pleasure of sharing Jaffa cakes with friends who’ve become an essential part of my week.
Green and Grow has given me more than improved fitness or horticultural knowledge. It’s restored my sense of purpose and shown me that recovery isn’t just about healing—it’s about growing into something new. Every Thursday, I’m reminded that even after life’s most difficult chapters, there’s always room for fresh growth.

I never thought I’d be sitting here, writing about where I am today. For so long, I believed this kind of life—working, feeling confident, being accepted—just wasn’t meant for someone like me.

School was brutal. The bullying got so severe that eventually, I had to be separated from my peers entirely. I learned in isolation, completely cut off from everyone else. When I left school, I was determined not to let that define me. I went to college, hopeful for a fresh start, but the same patterns followed me there. Bad experiences seemed to find me wherever I went. Still, I didn’t let it stop me.

I tried work next. I really tried. But then I experienced an assault that left me with PTSD. That could have been the end of it—maybe it should have been—but something in me refused to give up. I engaged with a welfare-to-work provider and threw myself into courses: health and safety, customer service, IT, English. I kept pushing forward, even when I didn’t know where I was going.

Then 2022 came, and everything changed. That was the year I had my daughter, Scarlett. She’s absolutely everything to me. My partner and I are together, but I still live at home with my mum—it’s where we need to be right now. But 2022 was also the year I lost my beloved dad. He died suddenly, and it shattered me. He was my best friend. My family had always been my secure place and losing him felt like losing my anchor.

I didn’t have time to grieve properly. I had a baby to care for, nappies to change, sleepless nights to survive. But somewhere in that fog of new motherhood and overwhelming grief, I made a decision: I wanted to make my dad proud.

This year, I saw a post on Facebook for a placement at ICT doing admin. I didn’t hesitate—I applied straight away. And honestly? I have loved every single minute of it. Everyone has been so helpful and supportive. I haven’t been afraid to ask questions, which is huge for me. I felt accepted for who I am, maybe for the first time in my life.

I’ve always suffered from anxiety. It’s been my constant companion for years. But not once—not once—have I felt that familiar anxiety coming into this placement. It has genuinely changed my life. I am so, so grateful. I never thought I’d be accepted for me, but I was welcomed without judgment.

David was a legend. He taught me so many skills—employability stuff like how to write a CV and a cover letter. I passed everything I learned on to my boyfriend, and he’s actually started work now using my advice. How incredible is that?

And then—I got a job. A real job, with a housing organisation – my dream. I was nervous at the interview, I won’t lie, but I used everything I’d learned at ICT. I actually did it.

I’ve been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, autism, ADHD, and PTSD. For years, I genuinely thought I’d be on benefits all my life. I’d accepted that as my reality. But now? Now I can live without that constant worry hanging over me. I have a future I never dared to imagine.

I wish everyone could experience what I’ve experienced—to be accepted for who they are, exactly as they are. I feel confident now. I feel empowered. I know I’m different, and I can’t change that. But I’ve learned that I don’t need to. Before, I’d be scared to leave the house. Now? Not anymore.

I hope—I really hope—I’ve done my dad proud.

Learning for Work Learning for Life Article + Interview with Dave

Learning for work, learning for life is a programme created through Inspiring Communities Together to empower, equip and ensure people from all walks of life have the tools and support to be successful in not only just work but life. Having started with a general focus on community living in 2012, Inspiring Communities have been able to help 1000s of people from children to the elderly. In current day Learning for Work, Learning for Life has been an extension of an already established ethos and effort towards supporting people who have been out of work or looking for an opportunity to support them on the path towards employment. Work experience through our placement programmes spans across a 5-weeks covering the foundations across each area and giving students a hands-on approach to tasks and working on various projects and tasks that help to build up CV’s and portfolios. 

Each area of work provides a range of options to choose from such as Administration, Childcare, Marketing and Comms & Information and Environmental. Each area of work is designed to provide an environment that reflects the generic working day in those roles so interns have a better idea of what to expect before going into the working world helping students strengthen personal and professional skills that are helpful for the working world and adjusting to the office setting work environment. Both staff and students are well supported as we aim to provide an inclusive environment that accommodates all and provides a place for wellbeing and care. 

Over the 5-week duration this requires 2.5 days in office where students gain digital skills, work-based training, core training. We make sure accessing these programmes are easily accessible through hosting a Work Placement Fair where people can learn more about the programme and talk to the team who provide insights and answers for any questions and queries. The placement fair takes place at the Salford Innovation Forum.

For many young people and adults alike, finding employment and having the right skills and experience is a big issue with many out of work and struggling to secure jobs. This has meant a lack of confidence in many people as there are high barriers to entry in the current work climate. Within the Salford area this is unfortunately the case. As of 2023 studies showed that Salford’s employment rate was 8%, 4.1% higher than the employment rate for England (3.9%). With much effort and initiatives by the Salford Council, there has been progress in the current day to tackle this. 

Through Learning for Work, Learning for Life, Inspiring Communities is on a mission to support people in the search for work and equipping individuals with skills for not only work but for life. We aim to do this one placement at a time making sure every student feels confident and empowered to take a leap into the world of work assured that they can make a difference having gained the experience and skills necessary on our placement programme. One of our most recent placement students on the Administration placement secured an Admin role on the 4th week of the programme.

On the other side of Learning for Work, Learning for Life, our development workers share their personal journeys supporting students on the programme. Our full time Development Worker Dave started out in the community supporting individuals, something he really found fulfilment in and pushed him to go from a part-time worker to full-time. Here is the interview below: 

What started your journey to becoming a development worker?

“On a one day a week programme I worked with the elderly in the community, this was during a post covid research programme in a local community centre. This is where everything began really, it gave me an insight into what a community looks like. We would have cooking, hairstyling, bingo classes and other fun classes. It really opened my eyes to seeing different people’s lives of all ages and backgrounds.”

What was that turning point during the role that made you want to join full time?

“During an exhibition at Salford Museum I was seeing what had been achieved and the impact on people. Seeing and hearing about all the work done at the time, I also realised that it was something I enjoyed, and it aligned with what I valued so I could see myself doing the same things and made the move from part-time to full-time.”

What is the most challenging thing you have faced being a development worker?

“Transitioning from more hands-on, fast paced, and physical jobs to a slower paced and structured office role as someone with ADHD, was quite challenging as I was used to high pressure environments in previous roles. It’s definitely still an adjustment for me. Taking wellbeing walks around the office helps me and an inclusive environment like Inspiring Communities really makes an effort to accommodate not only my differences and needs but everyone that works here too.”

Do you have any positive stories to share since being in this role?

“During a photography project with the Dunhill Medical Trust  ‘Developing Age-Friendly Communities in an Emergent Post-Pandemic World’, I was working with students in the photography programme where they were sharing their experiences on various topics like ‘What helped them feel better during covid?”, “What they missed from Covid”. Each week there would be a new Topic to cover. One great topic was ‘The People that Matter to Me.’ The students took pictures of family and pets that shared great memories with them during that time. Some really positive feedback I got from a student was that I had changed their life as a result of the programme. I look back on that memory fondly.”

What are 3 pieces of advice you would give to someone who wants to become a development worker?

“Have a person-centred approach when dealing with people, understand they are human, and people make mistakes.”

“Be organised because you’re dealing with people’s lives.”

“You can only do so much so don’t be too hard on yourself.”

If there is anything you could change about the role, what would it be?

“I’d say having less paperwork, rather more hands-on work in the community and doing more creative work and projects. I especially enjoy community days where we get people out to do face painting at the nursery with the kids, bingo, exercising with the elderly, tech games etc. We’ve also in the past during these community days have had circus clown acts, violinists, choirs, and song performances. It’s a really great time.”

In Current Day:

“Dave is now a part of the People and Place team at Inspiring Communities Together working as mentor for the Learning for work, learning for life placement programmes helping equip individuals to find work and gain employability skills and life skills too such as CV Writing, IAG wellbeing support.”

Andrew Salter, one of our long-standing ICT volunteers, was recently shortlisted for the Heart of Salford Community Champion award!

Andrew’s nomination demonstrates gratitude and reinforces the importance of volunteering in creating stronger, more cohesive neighbourhoods. It also provides an opportunity to publicly celebrate individuals who go above and beyond, further encouraging others to contribute to the collective good.

Andrew uses his time with ICT enhancing local urban and greenspaces by keeping our community cleaner, greener and safer! For over two years he has worked with us in local parks and communities ensuring where we live, work and play are suitable to do so!

Andrew doesn’t just dedicate his time to Inspiring Communities Together but to other local organisations, groups and primary schools. The impact Andrew has wherever he volunteers is profound and often transformative. Andrew brings energy, dedication, and fresh perspectives, which can significantly enhance the effectiveness and overall experience of volunteering.

Andrew you are the true definition of a Green Champion and we are super proud of you!

watch the video here

At Inspiring Communities Together, we believe that true health goes beyond medical treatment—it’s about connection, support, and empowerment. Social prescribing is at the heart of our approach, focusing on holistic well-being by linking individuals with services and activities that promote mental, physical, and emotional health.
Social prescribing connects people with local resources, from support groups to physical activities, and everything in between. Whether it’s joining a walking group, learning new skills, or finding community-based support networks, social prescribing helps individuals take control of their health journey in meaningful ways.
Our work has been deeply embedded in Salford’s vibrant communities since 2014. Through our diverse programs, we provide safe spaces where people can connect, share experiences, and build resilience. We’ve seen firsthand how these programs help people find new purpose, break free from isolation, and enhance their overall well-being.
One of our community members shared:
“Before joining the group, I felt really isolated. Now, I have a new sense of belonging, and my confidence has grown so much.”
This is just one of many success stories that highlight the power of social prescribing in transforming lives.
Our Programmes of Work
✅ Neighbourhoods – Creating opportunities for residents to engage in community gardening, events, and local projects that strengthen social connections.
✅ Aging Better – Supporting older adults in Salford through social activities, group meetups, and exercise programs to reduce loneliness and promote well-being.
✅ Children and Families – Providing resources for parents, caregivers, and children to access support networks, workshops, and after-school programs.
Celebrating Social Prescribing Day
This Social Prescribing Day, we are proud to reflect on how our programs transform lives and build healthier communities. Together, we can create lasting change!

At Inspiring Communities Together, we believe that learning is a lifelong journey that empowers individuals and strengthens our community. As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, we are proud to showcase the impact of our ‘Learning for Work, Learning for Life’ (LFWLFL) programme, which provides valuable placement opportunities for local people looking to gain experience, develop new skills, and progress in their careers.

Through this initiative, we support individuals in gaining practical workplace experience, helping them build confidence and prepare for long-term employment. It’s not just about finding work—it’s about creating sustainable career pathways that enable people to thrive.

LFWLFL placements can consist of opportunities in Administration, Communications and Marketing, Childcare, and Environmental work, providing a broad range of skills and experiences to help individuals progress in their chosen career paths.

A key part of our commitment to workforce development is also reflected in our own team. We are excited to highlight the internal progression of three of our current apprentices who are actively contributing to our organisation while furthering their education and career prospects:

• Joanne Inglis – ICT Level 5 Business Management Apprentice

From leaving school, Joanne had always been in the catering industry until the arrival of her first child in 2009 and her second in 2010. This led to a brief period away from work, during which she came across Inspiring Communities Together and volunteered in the Food Matters programme in Salford.

After this time, she returned to work at a hotel until an opportunity arose through Inspiring Communities Together for a food development worker role, helping people get back into employment. She stayed in this role until the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, when she transitioned to working with the Age Well team, delivering Tech and Tea online and then in the community.

In April 2023, Joanne had the opportunity to apply for the job of a Trainee Programme Manager (Neighbourhoods), which included the opportunity to complete a Level 5 in Operational Management. Over the years, she has enjoyed the various types of work she has been involved in and hopes to continue doing so.

• Naomi Cassidy – Level 3 Childcare Apprentice

Naomi, a local resident of Lower Kersal, joined Inspiring Communities Together in 2023 initially as part of Salford City Council Job Match scheme. Securing a one-year apprenticeship later that year, Naomi started her journey to complete a Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Qualification, which she achieved in July 2024.

Naomi has remained at Inspiring Communities Together and is now working on achieving a Level 3 qualification in Early Years. “I absolutely enjoy working at Yogurt Pots, where I get the opportunity to make a real difference every day. It’s so rewarding to contribute to the development and well-being of the children in our care!”

• Daniela Davies – Level 2 Childcare Apprentice

Daniela is passionate about early years childcare, especially how young children develop and learn. Her first work placement involved working with children, an experience she loved and wanted to pursue further. After her placement ended, she transitioned into an apprenticeship when a position became available, and she has now started her Level 2 Childcare Apprenticeship with Yogurt Pots. In her free time, Daniela enjoys staying active with her dog, Dexter, and participates in 5k runs every Saturday.

These apprenticeships not only provide practical skills but also open doors to further qualifications and career advancements. By investing in our team’s development, we are fostering a culture of growth, innovation, and opportunity within Inspiring Communities Together.

As we mark National Apprenticeship Week, we celebrate the achievements of our apprentices and encourage others to consider the benefits of work-based learning. If you or someone you know is interested in gaining experience through our ‘Learning for Work, Learning for Life’ (LFWLFL) programme, we would love to hear from you!

We are also excited to share a special video that highlights the journey and impact of our ‘Learning for Work, Learning for Life’ programme.

Watch it here:

Together, we can continue to build a stronger, more skilled, and resilient community.

For the first two weeks in January, Inspiring Communities Together was joined by Dakot to help clean the streets of Langworthy. This joint effort resulted in the collection of 42 bags of rubbish, with a primary focus on the Langworthy Road car park. The clean-up initiative aimed to improve the local environment and enhance the quality of life for residents.

Many of Dakot’s members travelled from various locations to assist with the clean-up, demonstrating their commitment to community service and environmental stewardship. Their dedication and hard work have made a significant impact on our community, and we are immensely grateful for their support.

The clean-up effort was not just about removing litter; it was also an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of keeping our streets clean and the positive effects it has on the community. Volunteers from both Inspiring Communities Together and Dakot worked tirelessly, braving the cold weather to ensure the streets of Langworthy were spotless.

“It’s heartwarming to see our community come together for such a worthy cause. The collaboration with Dakot and the efforts of our Green Champions have been instrumental in making this clean-up a success,” said a representative from Inspiring Communities Together. “We hope this initiative inspires others to take pride in their local environment and join us in future clean-up events.”

A huge thank you to our Green Champions and Dakot for helping us achieve this impressive clean-up! Your efforts have not only made Langworthy cleaner but also fostered a sense of community and shared responsibility.