Latest news with #PositiveActionInTheCommunity
Yahoo
13-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Teenager finds clear direction in life after help from YES Hub
A young Pendle man has found a clear direction for his life thanks to Pendle YES Hub. The Hub, managed by Active Lancashire and Positive Action in the Community on behalf of Pendle Borough Council, offers free support and training to 16–24-year-olds to help them gain confidence and employment. Abdul-Raheem Araf was referred to the YES Hub in August 2024 by his work coach as he navigated uncertainty about his future. Approaching his final year of college, the 17-year-old struggled with low confidence and anxiety over his next steps. His initial goal was to find part-time work, but he was also eager to gain a clearer sense of direction for life after education. Upon joining the Hub, staff quickly recognised the pressure Abdul was under and supported him in accessing NHS mental health drop-in sessions. This was a crucial first step in helping him improve his well-being and explore new opportunities. Abdul-Raheem Araf (Image: Abdul-Raheem Araf) As he began to engage more with the support on offer, he took part in a series of confidence-building activities, including outdoor adventure sessions, indoor climbing sessions and songwriting workshops. Abdul found that the physical activity sessions and wellbeing support in collaboration with local partner organisations helped him to reduce stress and gain a clearer sense of direction for his future, whilst connecting with other young people facing similar challenges. Abdul said: 'I've been supported in many ways, and it's really helped build my confidence. The YES Hub's outdoor activities have given me some mental stability and provided a helpful distraction from anxiety. I also attended their counselling sessions, which were great when I needed someone to listen and offer advice.' READ MORE: Act of betrayal as man stabs friend 20 times over unpaid £20 debt READ MORE: Education boss to monitor pupil attendance after school bus shake-up Throughout his time at the Hub, Abdul also received ongoing guidance from a dedicated work coach to explore the barriers he had faced in securing employment. With a CV and interview skills, Abdul secured part-time employment at Banny's in Colne. He has also been able to realise his dream of becoming a Paramedic – something he had felt was beyond reach before he accessed the YES Hub's support. As Abdul prepares to begin studying paramedic sciences, he continues to work part-time and attend the YES Hub to destress and socialise with others. Councillor Asjad Mahmood, deputy leader of Pendle Borough Council and Nelson Town Deal board member, said: 'The support Abdul has been offered has made a significant difference and helped him achieve something he never imagined. 'He is proof that initiatives like Pendle YES Hub really do help young people to overcome barriers when offered the right support. We wish him all the best for the future.'
Yahoo
19-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Bury boss to celebrate anniversary with Lake District challenge
A Bury business owner is making a huge splash in Lake Windermere to celebrate the third anniversary of his company. Jobstore UK owner Gary Bradley has announced he will undertake a 5km open water swim in the late on June 13 to raise vital funds for charity partner, Positive Action in the Community (PAC). Since its inception, Jobstore UK has established itself as a 'different kind of recruitment agency', prioritising its social mission alongside commercial success. The company focuses specifically on giving easy access to 'good, meaningful work' to everyone and providing dedicated support for veterans transitioning to civilian careers. Gary Bradley will take on a swimming challenge in Lake Windemere (Image: PAC) This has contributed to consistent year-on-year growth figures of 50 per cent and then 70 per cent. Mr Bradley said: "Reaching our third anniversary feels like a truly significant moment worth celebrating. "I am incredibly proud of the entire team's hard work and dedication, which has enabled us to exceed our targets and build something genuinely impactful. "Our success is built on the trust of our fantastic clients and the engagement of countless candidates who connect with our mission. "Our partnership with Positive Action in the Community is central to our identity. "Supporting an organisation that delivers so much value across the region reminds us exactly why we do what we do – recruitment with a conscience. "To further support their vital work, I'll be taking on a personal challenge: a 5km open water swim in Lake Windermere." He added: "Given some recent health issues, this will be particularly demanding, but it's for a cause close to our hearts, and any support would be hugely appreciated. "I am finding it difficult getting back into shape, but I'm up to 1,000m at the moment and only have to add another 4,000 to be able to complete the full swim." Read more: Friends set to complete hike for much-loved cause Bury-based family business expands with acquisition of wholesaler Funds raised will directly benefit PAC's programmes supporting individuals and families across the region affected by youth homelessness, domestic abuse or mental health challenges. Mr Bradley also thanked key partners who have contributed to Jobstore UK's success, including Orbital Design and ATTAIN Digital for website development, Better Networking Hubs for ongoing support, and Back Office Support Services for essential operational functions. Jobstore UK recently launched a new website at to celebrate the anniversary. To donate to Gary's fundraiser, visit
