Carlisle & North Cumbria CICs

Offers tailored equine courses aimed at promoting physical activity, personal development, and confidence among young people, particularly those facing challenges such as ADHD. Participants engage in hands-on interaction with horses in a nurturing environment, which helps them recognize their strengths and achieve personal goals. The organization operates as an approved alternative learning provision and collaborates with ASDAN for course accreditation, ensuring quality and recognition of their programs. Their mission centers on providing a safe and supportive space for young people to develop skills at their own pace.

Offers a welcoming space for cultural exchange and mental well-being support, specifically aimed at immigrants and local residents in Carlisle and Cumbria. The organization facilitates community forums where individuals can connect, share experiences, and access valuable resources. Afrikana CIC addresses challenges related to cultural adaptation and community inclusion, promoting open dialogue and understanding among diverse groups. Their initiatives foster a stronger, more inclusive society, empowering both new arrivals and long-standing residents.

Provides community support for families and adults with disabilities, including those facing mental health issues, ADHD, and autism. They operate a hub in Carlisle where adults can connect and a youth centre for children to play in a safe environment. The organization offers access to professional guidance and advice on various aspects of disabilities. Additionally, they organize fundraising events to support holiday activities and provide sensory toys tailored to the needs of children, helping families navigate the challenges of disability care.

Offers unique alpaca and llama experiences, including interactive activities and camping, while providing lifelong care for rescued animals. The organization aims to promote well-being and connect visitors with the natural beauty of the Lake District through engaging initiatives. They support the local community by running projects like a community garden, making their services accessible to diverse visitors. Their mission includes rehoming alpacas and llamas, ensuring they receive the best care in a welcoming environment.

Offers a versatile venue for hire that serves as a community hub in Beckermet, catering to local groups and businesses. The facility includes a kitchen, bar, and flexible spaces for events, recreation, and social gatherings. It aims to foster social connections and enhance community well-being through diverse programs and volunteer-led initiatives. The Reading Rooms provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for all residents and visitors in the area.

Organizes an annual literary festival in Carlisle that showcases a diverse range of authors and poets. The festival offers local residents and literature enthusiasts opportunities to engage in discussions, readings, and events that celebrate the joy of books. It fosters community connections through a series of engaging activities and special events, including a book club and gallery exhibitions. The festival aims to promote literacy and a love for literature among attendees of all ages.

Focuses on reducing carbon emissions and enhancing climate resilience through community-led sustainability projects in Brampton. They engage local residents in initiatives such as increasing community woodlands, maintaining peat bogs, and planting orchards and wildlife gardens. Their efforts aim to lower the area's carbon footprint while fostering biodiversity and environmental awareness. The CIC serves the local community by encouraging participation in various eco-friendly projects that contribute to a net zero carbon future.

Branch Out Education CIC promotes physical and mental wellbeing through community events, Forest School activities, and tailored outdoor learning programmes, primarily supporting children and families in the Penrith area. Their services include campfire cooking, games, crafts, and team-building activities, all designed to foster social and emotional development in a natural woodland setting.

Organizes community engagement activities aimed at enhancing the health and wellbeing of residents in Whitehaven. These activities include litter picks, social gatherings, and other initiatives that foster a supportive environment for local residents. The group promotes kindness and collaboration within the Bransty community, helping to strengthen community ties and improve overall quality of life. They focus on creating opportunities for residents to connect and participate in meaningful community service.

Provides a unique cultural venue that combines heritage, arts, and community engagement at Brougham Hall in Penrith. The CIC supports local artisans by offering craft shops and a café, creating a space for visitors to explore the historical site while enjoying local crafts and refreshments. They aim to foster cultural heritage and promote small businesses, while also encouraging the preservation of traditional crafts. The venue is family-friendly, welcoming children and dogs, and offers a rich historical experience for all visitors.

Focuses on restoring agriculturally poor land by planting a diverse range of plant species, including trees and scrub, to promote environmental sustainability and biodiversity. They aim to rehabilitate abandoned or unproductive land, particularly in the Workington area, creating habitats that support local wildlife and ecosystems. The organization emphasizes a holistic approach to land management, encouraging the restoration of bogs and heathlands alongside tree planting initiatives. By locking their assets, they ensure that all donations are dedicated to ongoing ecological projects, fostering a long-term commitment to nature recovery.

Carlisle Community Help Community Interest Company provides vital support to individuals and families in Carlisle by addressing food affordability through a network of community hubs. They assist approximately 250 people weekly by offering access to affordable food and essential services, helping those in need within the local community.

Preserves the memories of local servicemen and women from Cleator Moor who served in the First and Second World Wars. This community-driven project involves meticulous research and documentation, creating a comprehensive digital memorial to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice. The initiative encourages community engagement by inviting contributions from residents to share stories and information about local heroes. Through this work, they foster historical awareness and ensure that the sacrifices of these individuals are never forgotten.

Operates a community radio station on 102.7FM, serving Carlisle and the surrounding areas. The station provides a platform for local music, news, and entertainment while engaging the community through volunteer opportunities and discussions on local issues, health, and current affairs. CRFM focuses on informative programming that supports and educates residents, promoting local events and initiatives. The station actively involves local volunteers, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.

Offers film and theatre opportunities, including acting courses and workshops, to support local talent in Carlisle and the surrounding areas. They strive to engage with community members by providing innovative film and TV classes, as well as original theatre projects. Their initiatives empower aspiring actors by enhancing their skills and providing a platform for creative expression, addressing the lack of opportunities in the performing arts sector. The organization works closely with local artists and community members to foster creativity and collaboration.

Offers sustainable clothing solutions aimed at reducing clothing waste in Cumbria through initiatives such as clothing swaps, repairs, and affordable second-hand options. The organization engages local communities to raise awareness about the environmental impacts of textile waste, particularly those caused by fast fashion. They host events and workshops focused on sustainable fashion and the circular textiles economy, encouraging conscious consumerism and responsible garment care. Their programs are designed to benefit individuals and families in the local area who are looking for eco-friendly alternatives to traditional clothing consumption.

Offers home care services and well-being support to individuals in the Wigton area, focusing on enhancing the quality of life for those in need. Their activities include community engagement events like Well-being Wednesdays, which promote social interaction and mental health among local residents. Additionally, they provide creative workshops and operate a thrift shop to foster community connections. The CommuniTea Hub serves as a welcoming space for social activities, helping to reduce loneliness and promote community cohesion.

Facilitates the sustainable management and development of woodlands across Cumbria, offering resources and expertise to landowners, communities, and conservation groups. Their initiatives aim to enhance local ecosystems and foster community engagement through various woodland management projects.

Creates inclusive events and opportunities for individuals with disabilities, learning disabilities, Autism, and neurodiversity, along with their families and friends. Their activities include sensory sessions, cinema outings, open mic nights, and support groups, aimed at empowering participants and fostering community engagement. They operate primarily in the Penrith area and focus on promoting positivity and inclusivity through various community events and support initiatives.

Organizes and manages community events that celebrate art, music, and spoken word in Lanercost and surrounding areas. Supports local residents and emerging artists by providing a platform for showcasing their talents and fostering community engagement.

Fosters local artistic talent by providing a collaborative platform for artists, organizations, and venues. Supports both emerging and established artists through workshops, networking events, and community engagement initiatives, promoting inclusivity and accessibility in the arts.

Offers high-quality early years education and childcare services for children aged 0-5 years in Carlisle. The nursery provides a safe and stimulating environment where children are cared for with love and attention. They focus on supporting each child's development through engaging activities and a high adult-to-child ratio. Additionally, they foster strong partnerships with parents to enhance the learning experience and have established connections with local schools to support children's transition to primary education.

Provides therapeutic services aimed at enhancing the mental, physical, and emotional well-being of individuals in the Workington community. They offer group support, holistic therapies, and specialized assistance for those affected by domestic and sexual abuse, mental health issues, and loneliness. Focused Therapies CIC empowers both adults and children to regain confidence and improve their overall well-being through compassionate, tailored support. Their collaborative approach with other organizations helps to address service gaps and reduce waiting lists for mental health support.

Creates pop-up cultural encounters and offers free creative workshops, known as Art Gyms, for young people aged 10 and above in Cleator Moor. They connect local artists with the community, providing opportunities for participants to engage in the arts and shape future projects. Their mission is to make creativity accessible to all, fostering collaboration and enhancing community engagement through unique artistic experiences. Events include outdoor operas and seasonal celebrations that cater to families and individuals of all ages.

Supports the health and wellbeing of patients, families, staff, and the wider community in North Cumbria through arts in health activities. They offer creative projects and therapies, including art, music, puppetry, dance, and poetry, primarily within NCIC hospitals and community settings. Their initiatives aim to enhance mental and emotional health through artistic expression and engagement, benefiting a diverse range of individuals. Healing Arts collaborates with the University of Cumbria to evaluate and develop new projects, ensuring their work is evidence-based and impactful.

Provides comprehensive HR support and business development services tailored for start-ups and struggling businesses in Carlisle. Their offerings include workshops on HR, leadership development, performance management, sales and marketing, and recruitment. By focusing on ethical employment practices, diversity, and inclusion, they empower local entrepreneurs to build strong, sustainable teams. Kinsella Business Solutions CIC aims to drive economic growth and social well-being within the local start-up ecosystem.

Specializes in planning and delivering community-focused events and corporate gatherings across Cumbria, including festivals, private meetings, and large-scale celebrations. They aim to enhance social cohesion and provide economic benefits to local residents and businesses. Their events are professionally managed and tailored to meet the specific needs of clients, ensuring a positive experience for all participants. Through their activities, they foster community engagement and support local economies.

Offers holistic therapies and nature-based activities aimed at enhancing mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing. Their services include Reiki, forest bathing, and shamanic healing, designed to help individuals reconnect with themselves and nature. They provide retreats, workshops, and therapeutic sessions that cater to individuals, families, and corporate teams in the Lake District area. Unique programs incorporate rituals aligned with moon cycles and the Celtic Wheel of the Year to support personal growth and transformation.

Provides opportunities for people of colour in Carlisle to showcase their talents in creativity, business, and community while delivering educational activities and events that increase visibility and representation. Their initiatives aim to inspire and invest in the next generation, challenging traditional views on equality and diversity.

Offers a community hub for various events and activities, including regular yoga classes, Pilates sessions, and a monthly farmers market. They provide a welcoming space for residents and visitors in the Orton area, promoting community engagement and cultural experiences. The facilities include a main hall for larger gatherings and a supper room for smaller meetings, catering to diverse community needs. Additionally, they support local heritage initiatives and provide a prescription collection service in collaboration with Shap Medical Practice.

Organizes live music events in Whitehaven, Cumbria, to showcase emerging local talent and provide a platform for new musicians. They curate dynamic performances that connect artists with local audiences, benefiting both performers and the community.

Organizes community-driven tree planting events in Carlisle, providing hands-on opportunities for local residents, schools, and organizations to engage in environmental stewardship. Their initiatives include free community tree planting days, adventure tree planting experiences in the Lake District, and team-building activities for local businesses, all aimed at enhancing local ecosystems and fostering a connection to nature. They focus on making tree planting accessible to everyone, regardless of experience, and emphasize collaboration with local communities to nurture new forests.

Promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion for marginalized communities in Cumbria, with a particular focus on LGBTQIA+ individuals. They provide advocacy, community engagement, and a platform for information and services tailored to minority groups. The organization fosters a safe environment for communities to celebrate their diversity and works to counter discrimination across the region. Their initiatives aim to improve the lives and rights of diverse communities through support and outreach activities.

Offers therapeutic pottery workshops designed to improve mental health and well-being in a safe and supportive environment. The organization creates bespoke ceramics and sells their own creations through an online shop and local outlets. They cater to individuals of all ages, particularly those seeking mental health benefits and social connections through creative expression. The workshops provide an opportunity for participants to engage in art as a form of therapy, fostering community and personal growth.

Empowers the local LGBTQ+ community in Cumbria through arts projects, community events, and a dedicated magazine that amplifies queer voices and issues. Focuses on fostering inclusivity and collaboration to create safe spaces for socializing and solidarity.

Offers a variety of creative textile workshops and courses designed for individuals of all ages, from children to adults. The CIC provides an educational space where participants can develop their crafting skills, engage in hands-on learning, and explore their creativity through textile arts. Located in Cockermouth, they promote the principles of re-use, repurpose, and renovation, while also selling handmade designer gifts and craft kits. Their experienced team of designer/makers fosters a supportive environment for both beginners and seasoned creators.

Offers accessible short courses, e-learning, and micro-credentials in sustainable forestry and forest management to enhance knowledge and skills in the sector.

Provides tailored support and advice for Autistic adults without a learning disability, focusing on filling service gaps in Cumbria. They assist families of Autistic adults in understanding Autism and maintaining positive relationships, particularly in the Carlisle, Penrith, and Keswick areas. The organization emphasizes the importance of overcoming obstacles and offers resources to help Autistic individuals achieve their potential. Their team includes experienced professionals dedicated to improving the lives of those they serve.

Offers innovative training and retail initiatives aimed at empowering local entrepreneurs and small businesses. They provide tailored resources and educational programs to help individuals develop essential skills, launch their ventures, and contribute to community and economic growth. Their unique approach includes mentorship and hands-on experience for aspiring retailers, fostering a vibrant local economy in Cumbria. Additionally, they operate community-focused projects like the FLAX café, enhancing local engagement and pride.

Offers a range of hairdressing and beauty services, including haircuts, colour correction, and beauty treatments, while also providing education and training opportunities in these fields. They cater to individuals looking to enhance their skills and confidence in hair and beauty, fostering a community-focused environment. Operating in Whitehaven, Cumbria, they emphasize a sustainable approach by partnering with product manufacturers who share their progressive ethos. Their commitment to both people and the planet is evident in their customer-centric services and educational programs.