Durham CICs

Offers a variety of heritage craft courses, including willow work and blacksmithing, aimed at fostering creativity and preserving traditional craft skills. They provide hands-on learning experiences for the local community, helping individuals of all ages engage with crafts using locally sourced materials. Additionally, they operate a mobile sawmilling service to assist with local wood projects, making it easier for residents to utilize fallen trees and other wood resources. Their annual event, Northern Bowl, brings together crafting enthusiasts for a weekend of learning and community building.

Active Future Durham CIC offers sports coaching and multi-sport sessions for children and young people in Consett, with a strong emphasis on promoting physical activity and healthy lifestyles. They provide inclusive programs tailored for various age groups and abilities, including specialized activities for children with disabilities.

Provides bespoke support to organizations addressing domestic abuse, including training and consultancy services to enhance responses and empower victims. Their work is informed by extensive expertise in safeguarding, housing, and survivor-informed practices.

Offers accredited training courses and support services aimed at personal and professional development for individuals and groups in the Consett area. They focus on reducing isolation and fostering meaningful connections within the community. By collaborating with local organizations, they address mental health and social challenges, helping individuals develop skills and overcome barriers. Their commitment to building inclusive communities is evident through their various programs designed to uplift individuals and families.

Provides educational theatre and interactive workshops designed to enhance children's skills in science, technology, engineering, arts, and maths (STEAM). They cater to schools, birthday parties, and community groups, focusing on creative pedagogy and the integration of arts in learning. Their workshops aim to develop key life skills, foster positive mental and physical health, and instill a love of learning among children. Operating primarily in Consett and surrounding areas, they also offer continuing professional development courses for educators, emphasizing innovative teaching methods.

Provides wellness support and life coaching specifically designed for LGBTQ+ individuals, including those on remand at Durham Prison. Their services include 1:1 support sessions, wellness retreats, and workplace talks aimed at fostering inclusivity and personal growth. The organization emphasizes creating a safe and understanding environment for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. They also run the Out & Out Program, which is fully funded by the Big Lottery Community Fund, to further support the LGBTQ+ community.

Offers a variety of dance classes for children from preschool age to advanced levels, including ballet, contemporary, tap, and musical theatre. The company focuses on fostering creativity, confidence, and community engagement among young dancers in Birtley and the surrounding North East England area. Their inclusive approach ensures personalized support for every dancer, creating a positive environment for learning and growth. Special events and performances are also organized, enhancing the overall experience for participants.

Provides support for local artists and organizations in County Durham through various community arts initiatives. Their activities include organizing the Spennymoor Mural Festival, developing legal mural spaces, and offering consultancy for arts and culture events. They empower both emerging and established creatives while enhancing community engagement through collaborative art projects. The CIC focuses on fostering a vibrant arts scene that benefits the local community and promotes creativity.

Offers community songwriting workshops and performances that empower individuals from diverse backgrounds to share their stories through music and lyrics. They specifically support marginalized communities and those who are socially isolated, fostering creativity and cultural participation. Operating primarily in the North East of England, Citizen Songwriters aims to break down barriers and strengthen community connections through the arts. Their unique approach encourages participation and creativity, regardless of prior musical experience.

Provides mental health support and resources specifically tailored for entrepreneurs and small to medium business owners in County Durham. Their services include education, training, and consultation aimed at helping individuals manage stress, anxiety, and burnout. They focus on creating a nurturing environment that addresses the unique challenges faced by business owners, promoting both personal and professional growth. By raising awareness of mental health issues, they aim to reduce stigma and foster a thriving community of resilient entrepreneurs.

Promotes sustainable practices and combats climate change in Durham by providing resources, workshops, and support to residents, businesses, and organizations. Their initiatives focus on reducing carbon footprints and enhancing environmental awareness within the local community. They empower individuals and communities through education on sustainability, biodiversity, and waste reduction strategies. Additionally, they advocate for energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy to foster a carbon-neutral future.

Helps businesses and communities in the North of England tackle the biodiversity and climate crises through practical actions and initiatives. They offer consultancy support for creating net zero plans, training programs focused on climate action, and community events like the Dalton Park EcoFest. Their unique Pollinator Parks® initiative aims to support biodiversity and restore natural habitats. They serve local residents, families, and businesses, providing resources and support to reduce environmental impact.

Promotes local heritage and arts through community-focused initiatives, events, and educational programs. They engage residents of Consett and surrounding areas, fostering pride and connection to their cultural history while providing opportunities for participation and learning. The organization hosts various events and meetups for creatives, encouraging community involvement and volunteerism. They also share local stories and heritage, enhancing the cultural narrative of the region.

Provides Musical Theatre performances, workshops, classes, and activities across the UK, focusing on inspiring creativity and self-expression among individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Provides hands-on, practical support to small businesses in the North East through regular online networking meetings, one-on-one business coaching, and workshops on essential topics such as online selling and visual marketing. They aim to foster collaboration and growth among local entrepreneurs, helping over 160 small businesses thrive in the region. Their dynamic approach includes member podcasts and a variety of events designed to address the unique challenges faced by small businesses today.

Provides adult day care services for individuals with learning, physical, and sensory disabilities, focusing on promoting social inclusion through personalized support and meaningful activities.

Promotes tennis participation and skill development through a variety of programs, including adult and junior sessions tailored for individuals of all ages and abilities. They collaborate with local organizations and schools to create inclusive opportunities that enhance physical fitness, mental well-being, and social connections within the community. Their initiatives aim to make tennis accessible to everyone, fostering a love for the sport while improving overall health and community cohesion.

Organizes an annual performing arts festival in Durham City, providing a low-cost platform for new, emerging, and experimental artists to showcase their work. The festival supports local talent and engages the community by offering diverse performances that celebrate creativity and artistic expression. It benefits both artists and audiences in County Durham and the wider North East, fostering a vibrant cultural scene. The festival encourages participation from various artists and sponsors, creating opportunities for collaboration and community involvement.

Offers a range of health and fitness activities aimed at promoting well-being for children and adults. They provide school provisions, holiday clubs, and community groups that focus on enriching sporting activities and nutritional education. Operating primarily in Durham and the North East, they strive to support individuals and families from diverse backgrounds in leading active and healthy lives. Their approach includes collaboration with expert coaches and health providers to ensure safe and enjoyable experiences for all participants.

Offers personalized 1:1 tutoring services for children and young people in the Great Lumley and Chester-le-Street areas, focusing on enhancing academic performance and building confidence. The organization provides tailored educational resources to support students who may be struggling in their studies, ensuring sessions are customized to each child's unique strengths and needs. Elevate Tutoring emphasizes a collaborative approach with families and schools, working to empower children to realize their full potential. They are committed to fostering an encouraging environment where students can thrive academically and personally.

Delivers live and online performing arts experiences, focusing on theatre productions that tour across the North of England, particularly in the North East. They provide tailored educational programs to schools, aiming to inspire and empower local communities, especially young people, through creativity and artistic expression. Their initiatives include northern premieres of plays and original works, fostering a love for the arts in underserved areas. The company has received multiple awards for its contributions to the arts, highlighting its commitment to quality and community engagement.

Provides accredited training and non-accredited workshops aimed at empowering women and girls across the North-Eastern region. They focus on personal development, confidence-building, and well-being, while also offering alternative educational provisions for young people aged 13-16 who face barriers to traditional schooling. Their Level 1 Beauty Therapy programmes help these young individuals re-engage in education and prepare for future employment opportunities. The organization is based in Durham and is part of the GTD hub.

Offers training and support focused on digital inclusion, helping individuals and organizations enhance their digital skills and confidence. They provide award-winning online courses, frameworks for running digital inclusion programs, and ongoing support for project managers and digital champions. Their services target vulnerable groups, including those facing poverty and low self-esteem, and they operate across various sectors including public, private, and voluntary organizations. With over 25 years of experience, they aim to tackle the digital divide through practical advice and measurable impact.

Offers a range of community-focused services including a gym, café, and event spaces that cater to local residents of all ages. The community centre serves as a vibrant hub for social interaction and well-being, providing activities that promote health and community engagement. It is particularly known for its welcoming atmosphere and quality facilities, making it an ideal location for gatherings, fitness, and casual visits. The centre also hosts various events and activities aimed at fostering community spirit and connectivity among residents.

Havok Bike Park CIC operates a dedicated mountain biking facility in Durham, offering a range of trails and events designed for riders of all skill levels. The park aims to promote outdoor activity and community engagement, benefiting local cyclists, families, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Develops a collection of 100 circular walking routes across County Durham, each accompanied by stories that highlight the region's history and heritage. Their initiatives promote physical activity and community engagement, encouraging exploration of the area's natural and cultural treasures.

Offers immersive experiences in Viking history through hands-on training in sword, axe, spear, and shield combat, while recreating the everyday life of a Viking settlement. Engages individuals and families in community-building activities that inspire curiosity and foster connections.

Provides a creative sanctuary for young people aged 9–17, focusing on self-expression and community building through art, music, and various workshops. The organization emphasizes support for LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, and creatively-minded individuals, fostering a sense of belonging.

Offers tailored boxing and fitness classes, including personal training and group coaching, designed to enhance strength, skill, and confidence for individuals of all fitness levels.

Lightopia Community Interest Company is dedicated to enhancing community spaces in Durham through the provision of modern lighting solutions. They focus on supporting local businesses and residents by offering accessible and innovative lighting designs that brighten homes and public areas.

Offers a range of outdoor activities aimed at promoting mental and physical well-being, including guided walks, yoga sessions, and mindfulness practices. The organization focuses on supporting individuals facing social isolation, regardless of their socio-economic background, by providing accessible opportunities to connect with nature. Operating in the North East of England, they create inclusive environments that encourage personal growth and community engagement through nature-based experiences. Their unique approach emphasizes the transformative power of mindfulness and outdoor adventure.

Offers tailored hypnotherapy services to help individuals overcome anxiety, stress, phobias, and chronic pain, utilizing specialized techniques like Hypno-CBT® and NLP.

Provides vocational skill training and tailored employability development for young people, enhancing their engagement and outcomes through contextualised education. Their programs facilitate progression into further education, apprenticeships, or employment.

Provides a range of support services for UK veterans and their families, including education and training, employment support, mental health assistance, housing aid, and initiatives to combat food poverty. The organization is veteran-led and operates in the North East of England, focusing on helping individuals transition from military to civilian life. Unique programs such as 'Back on Track' and 'Walking Football' promote community engagement and physical well-being. Their mission emphasizes compassion, integrity, and community, ensuring that no veteran is left behind.

Offers high-quality swimming lessons for individuals of all ages and abilities, focusing on building confidence and improving swimming skills in a safe and engaging environment.

Provides accessible recreational activities and support services for children and young people aged 5 to 16 with disabilities and long-term health conditions. Their offerings include engaging events such as petting zoo days, which promote social interaction and personal development in a supportive environment. Based in Houghton le Spring, they focus on creating inclusive experiences that empower their beneficiaries. The organization also features a dynamic blog sharing inspiring stories from individuals they have assisted.

The Craft Cabin North East C.I.C. offers creative workshops and activities, including half-term crafts and community art initiatives, designed to engage children and families in the Chester-le-Street area. Their programs promote creativity, social interaction, and inclusivity, benefiting local residents of all ages.

Provides tailored training and skills development for young people and adults facing challenges in traditional educational settings. Their services focus on building confidence and equipping individuals with essential skills for future employment, facilitating a pathway back into mainstream education and meaningful post-16 opportunities. The curriculum includes a balanced mixture of practical and academic teaching, aimed at supporting students in their personal and educational growth. Located in Chester-le-Street, they are committed to inclusion and making a lasting difference in the lives of their students.

Provides advocacy and support for individuals with disabilities and complex needs, focusing on pathways to meaningful employment and social inclusion. The organization empowers young adult carers by offering tailored resources and community engagement to help them achieve their goals.

Offers boxing and fitness classes tailored for individuals of all ages and abilities in the North East of England, including areas such as Gateshead, Blaydon, and Hexham. The organization focuses on promoting physical health and emotional well-being, particularly for local youth and those looking to enhance their fitness. Union Jab provides professional coaching, personal training, and a welcoming environment to encourage community participation. They also offer a first class free to new members, making it accessible for everyone to join.