Aspirations Program Registered Charity 1195424

07/03/2026

We're here at today in the Royals, with our many family fun games, we've got a tombola, lucky dip, "ducky" dip 🦆 and a chance to win some lego sets! Come say hello!

07/03/2026

We are celebrating Southend City Day outside poundland in the Royals, please pop along and say hello if you're around ❤️

05/03/2026

Empowering Women, Enriching Lives: Carries Outreach's Commitment to IWD 2026

This International Women's Day, Carries Outreach reaffirms its dedication to empowering women and promoting equality. The global theme, "Give To Gain," resonates deeply with our mission to support women in overcoming challenges and achieving their full potential.

Today, our women's service celebrated with a special Pamper Day 💅. The ladies enjoyed hair cuts, manicures, and pedicures, along with gift bags and a lovely lunch. It was a wonderful opportunity for them to relax, connect, and feel valued.

At Carries Outreach, we're implementing this theme through several initiatives:

- Lived Experience Mentorship leadership & staff, women who have navigated similar challenges, offering guidance and support from a place of understanding.
-Community Events Hosting events and campaigns that promote women's empowerment and raise awareness about key issues.
- Partnerships Collaborating with organizations to amplify our impact and create opportunities for women.
- True co-production, inviting women to be involved with strategic planning & truly implementing thier idears.

As a leader with lived experience, I'm passionate about creating spaces where women can thrive. My own journey has given me a perspective and empathy, allowing me to connect with and support women in meaningful ways. I still give my time to women no matter the demands of my role - all our attendees know me.

Our goal is to create a ripple effect, inspiring women to support and uplift each other. By giving our time, resources, and expertise, we gain a stronger, more resilient community.

And we get to witness, women supporting women! Giving to gain !

Join us in celebrating the strength and determination of women everywhere 💪.

27/02/2026

27/02/2026

Thank you to everyone that has showed an interest in our recently advertised job roles. We have received over 250 applications and have now closed the window for new submissions.

We are incredibly grateful and overwhelmed by the high volume of interest. It is wonderful to see so many people eager to join our team.

Shortlisted applicants will be contacted in due course.

24/02/2026

The Aspirations Art Exhibition

We are very excited to announce that we will be hosting a charity art exhibition later this year, raising awareness of addiction and recovery, which will be taking part during National Recovery Month.

We are holding an open call for creatives of all backgrounds and medias the opportunity to take part. Whether you’re emerging or established, we would love to see your vision.

🖼️ Exhibition Dates: 1–30 September 2026
📍 Venue: The Forum, Southend
📅 Application Deadline: 1 April 2026

This is your chance to:
✨ Showcase your work in a public exhibition
✨ Use your creativity to spark important conversations
✨ Support recovery and help raise vital funds for a local charity
✨ Connect with a community of artists

Email francesca@aspirationsprogram.org.uk for the artist brief and more details.

ArtForChange CreativeCommunity Southend CharityExhibition ArtWithPurpose

24/02/2026

The sun is out 🌞

Spring is calling 🪻

Your running shoes are waiting 👟

Sign up for one of our charity runs and make your miles mean more!

https://www.aspirationsprogram.org.uk/event

17/02/2026

We are taking part in ! You can find us in The Royals on Saturday 7th March along other community stalls. Come and enjoy everything our city has to offer!

17/02/2026

_Operations Manager - Aspirations Day Program_
_Reports to:_ CEO
_Location:_ Southend-on-Sea
_Hours:_ Full-Time (37 hours/week)
_Salary:_ £37,000 per annum + 6% pension

_Job Purpose:_
The Operations Manager is responsible for the day-to-day operational management and effectiveness of Aspirations Day Program's services, administrative functions, and charity log system. The role ensures leadership, supports high service performance, and achieves contract requirements and KPIs.

_Key Responsibilities:_
- Oversee operational management of services and administrative functions
- Manage Health and Safety, HR, Safeguarding, and regulatory compliance
- Lead and manage staff, including recruitment, induction, and line management
- Manage charity log system and ensure data accuracy
- Support CEO with strategic planning, budgeting, and reporting
- Ensure regulatory requirements are met and manage risk concerns
- Develop relationships with external organisations and stakeholders

_Person Specification:_
- Proven operations management experience
- Leadership and management qualification (e.g. ILM, CMI)
- Excellent organisational and communication skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and work flexibly
- Experience with charity log systems and data management
- Experience working with vulnerable individuals or in safeguarding
- Experience working with trauma-informed frameworks

_What We Offer:_
- Competitive salary with 6% pension contribution
- 28 days annual leave per year
- Opportunity to support a great cause and make a difference
- Flexible working hours
- Professional development opportunities

_How to Apply:_
Please send your CV and a covering letter to
Info@aspirationsprogram.org.uk.

We look forward to hearing from you!

16/02/2026

🌸 Celebrate International Women’s Day with Us 🌸

Join us for a special community celebration recognising the achievements, strength and contributions of women in our society.

📅 Friday 6th March 2026
📍 Victoria Shopping Centre, First Floor, SS2 5SP
🎟 FREE Event, 👉 Register now: www.welcome2theuk.com/iwd

This year’s theme, Give to Gain, celebrates the power of sharing knowledge, support and experiences within our community. The day is designed to bring people together to connect, learn and inspire one another.

✨ What to expect
* Official opening by Bayo Alaba MP
* Live performance from Southend Chamber Vox Choir
* Inspiring speakers and interactive workshops
* Fitness and wellbeing sessions
* Creative activities including bracelet making, vision boards and hair accessory workshops
* Networking with local organisations and around 30 community stallholders
* Pop up café and entertainment throughout the day

There is something for everyone, whether you want to learn a new skill, meet new people, build confidence or simply enjoy a positive and welcoming space.

📧 iwd@welcome2theuk.com

📞 01702 808 579

13/02/2026

Thank you to everyone who attended our annual valentines me, it was a lovely night, which raised £700 thank you, Lucy Watts, for organising, and thank you to Leigh Tandoori for the amazing food.

And another thank you to everyone who donated Raffle Prizes we can't raise these vital funds alone❤️

11/02/2026

Thank you to the incredible Karen Marie Johntson who delivered an outstanding 2-day training on Communication, Boundaries & Team Connection in Trauma-Informed Services!

Our team of 35 came away with invaluable skills and insights to enhance our support for those we serve and amongst each other. What really stood out was how held and supported the whole team felt by the trainer, even when exploring some really challenging topics - that takes skill!

If you're looking to level up your team's approach to trauma-informed care, I couldn't recommend Karen more!

Big shoutout to our amazing team for showing up, being vulnerable, and committing to growth - you guys are amazing.
"Shame dies when stories are told in safe places" - this training created that safe space, and we're grateful for it.

Huge thanks also to East Street Catering for the delicious lunches that kept us fueled and happy, and to The Palace Hotel for hosting us in such a lovely setting - perfect combo!

Thanks again Karen for an unforgettable experience - looking forward to seeing the impact!