A charity that transforms lives by helping long-term unemployed people back into the world of work held an open day to officially launch its new brand.
Goodlives — formerly known as Home to Work — welcomed special guests to its horticulture site at the Westlakes Science Park, near Whitehaven, for the event.
The charity rebranded earlier this year to better reflect the growing number of services it offers to those in need in of support in the former Copeland area.
Guests toured the two-acre site, where raised beds, polytunnels and a new outdoor kitchen sit alongside workshop spaces for digital training and upcycling.
Goodlives team members and volunteers delivered a series of workshops and guided attendees through the site, where learners cultivate everything from salad leaves to self-confidence.
Karen Jones, managing director, said: “The rebranding to Goodlives is more than a name change; it’s a reflection of our commitment to empowering individuals and fostering community growth.
“Our new identity encapsulates the essence of what we do – helping people build better lives through practical support and skill development.
“The open day was a testament to the incredible support we have from our community and partners.
“Seeing everyone come together to celebrate our new brand and the positive impact we are making was truly heartwarming. We are excited about the future and the opportunities that lie ahead.”
Goodlives helps around 200 people every year to make the journey from unemployment to being work ready – and in many cases securing employment.
The charity works with long-term unemployed and in some cases, with individuals who have never had a job but are desperate to get into the world of work.
It offers free courses to boost CVs and help individuals grow in confidence. The courses cover areas including woodwork, upcycling, food and nutrition, customer service, online courses, and horticulture.
In addition to the allotment site, it has its main base in Cleator Moor, with a community shop just a few yards down the road.
More than 70 per cent of learners who are supported by Goodlives and go into employment are still employed two years later. One of the reasons for this is the ongoing support provided by the team for six months after work is secured.
Chair of the board, Mark Telford, said: “Goodlives isn’t about teaching someone to fill in a CV – it’s about changing and saving lives.
“We’ve seen people with almost nothing in their corner find purpose, learn new skills and rebuild their self-respect.
“That kind of impact doesn’t fade after a course ends; it ripples out into families and whole neighbourhoods. As chair, I couldn’t be prouder of the lasting difference we’re making here.
“But we should not take this charity for granted. It needs financial support to be able to carry on its vital work, so today I’m calling on businesses large and small to consider supporting Goodlives – as my own business, Forth does – with capital grants or funding pledges.
“We have a shared responsibility to help elevate our communities and the people in them. This is what Goodlives does so wonderfully.”
