Teenager Jen* became aware that she was different to her friends and that they no longer wished to hang around with her. She was socially awkward and no longer seemed to fit in.
When her mum discovered Autism Bedfordshire and its evening social group Wanted Fun, she described it as “a godsend”.
Shortly after her father died suddenly from cancer, Natalie couldn’t bring herself to ask her grieving mum for money for a winter coat. Her dad had been the bread-winner, and mum was struggling. The 11 year old was shivering while trying to play with her school friends at break time, and kept catching colds and becoming unwell.
Every year, thanks to funding from Luton Rising, Age Concern Luton is able to help nearly 1,500 elderly or disabled residents of the town with free repairs, maintenance and general assistance.
We are looking for local Luton residents to be the voice of the Luton DART, giving you your chance at a moment in the spotlight. It could be your voice that is heard on the recorded announcements on the Luton DART, and in the Luton DART terminal.
Last week, Luton Rising’s Engagement Director, Orlagh Ennis and Social Media Coordinator, Rosie Copperwheat visited the Salto Gymnastics facility in Sundon Park, Luton and met with Salto’s COO, Carl Richardson.
Hospital can be a disturbing environment for anyone, and for nine-year-old Jessica (not her real name) a visit led to serious and long-term problems that needed expert help to resolve.
After over a year of events and creativity grinding to a halt, in February 2022, we launched the start of a fund to support the return of community events in Luton. Thanks to our community’s fantastic efforts to bring vibrancy, generosity of spirit and creativity back to local neighbourhoods , the Luton Rising Special Events Community Award Fund 2022 has been able to support over 14 events across the breadth of the community so far.
Luton Rising is delighted to be able to celebrate the fantastic success of our apprentices, who were promoted to full time staff members earlier this month. This is a huge milestone for our apprentices, who have worked hard over 12 months to develop their skills through training and professional work experience.
Following the first round of funding to support community events in Luton, we are delighted to announce that round two of the fund is now officially open.
With the special bank holiday to celebrate Queen Elizabeth’s 70 years on the throne taking place on 2 and 3 June, Lutonians across the town will be joining in the festivities and fun, as well as joining in the International Carnival. Roughly 30 street parties will also be taking place as people take the opportunity to be part of this momentous historic occasion for the nation.