😎 It's cracking the flags out there, so this is an ideal weekend to get out and about across our borough!

There are so many incredible places to explore across our Greenheart; from our beautiful Flashes and our incredible Green Flag parks (such as Mesnes Park in Wigan, Pennington Hall Park in Leigh and Ashton's Jubilee Park) to our Bee Network paths and canalways, ideal for an afternoon stroll.

And if you want to get out there and make a difference, there's still time to get involved in this weekend's Memory Walk at Pennington Flash. Scroll down to find out more 👇

It's important to stay safe in the sun and look out for vulnerable residents during this spell of hot weather. Click here for some handy advice from the national 'Beat the Heat' campaign.

Have you picked up your copy of Borough Life? 🥰

The new spring edition of Borough Life magazine is out now, and as usual it's packed full of news, features and what's on information - including a preview of the amazing visit of THE HERDS to Pennington Flash in a few weeks.

You can pick up a copy of the magazine at public buildings and community venues across the borough, or check it out on our website. 

Memory Walk this weekend! 👟🫶

If you’re looking for something to do this Sunday (22 June) and fancy a day out with a difference that MAKES a difference, then please join us at Pennington Flash for this year’s Be Well Memory Walk in support of the Alzheimer's Society.

Our fabulous fundraisers are always such wonderful occasions, when people come together from all over the borough to share stories, remember loved ones and do their bit in the battle against dementia by raising vital funds for research and support services. 💙

There are two fundraising walks to choose from (20mins or 1hr depending on your ability), both starting at 11am (with registration at the rear of The Hide Coffee House from 10.15am). You can download a sponsorship form and get your friends and family to pledge their support, or simply make a donation in one of our collection buckets or via our official Just Giving page.

There’s also a special orienteering challenge for little ones (just ask us for a sheet at the registration station) and lots for the whole family to enjoy – so bring a picnic or grab a sweet treat from the café… it’s definitely looking like ice cream weather!

It’s FREE to take part (all donations welcome, no matter how big or small) and you don’t need to book – just turn up! Those who do sign up in advance, however, will be guaranteed a certificate of participation and anyone who also donates £10 or more will also receive a special Memory Walk souvenir tote bag.

Meet our support worker Kim...🤩

...she was looking for extra work alongside her part time job as her children were getting older. She then ended up leaving her part time job to work full time in care and currently works as a support worker.

“I like working in care because it gives me great job satisfaction knowing I'm making a difference to people's lives," she says. "I help them stay and live in their own homes and feel safe and supported.

“I'd recommend working in care for many reasons. A few being you get a good work balance around your family life with great hours, you are able to work in your community, and every day is different.“

Looking for a change of direction with your career? Been thinking about getting back into work? We have lots of different care roles available. We’ll provide specialised training and help you to develop the skills you need to work in social care. No previous experience needed!

More from communities...

🚭 The Be Well Stop Smoking Service team will be headed out on a summer roadshow from the end of this month (30 June – 4 July), so if you’ve been thinking about quitting then watch out for them at a venue near you… offering free information and advice, plus CO readings to check your lung health. Keep an eye on Be Well's Facebook page for full details. You can also find out more about how the service can help you quit on the Be Well website.

🛟 Looking to make a splash with your career this summer? Why not learn to be a lifeguard with Be Well?! If you’re a strong, confident swimmer looking for a career in leisure, dive in and boost your CV with a National Pool Lifeguard Qualification. Places are currently available on our five-day courses at Wigan Life Centre on the following dates: 21-23, 28 & 29 July 2025; 4-6, 11 & 12 August; and 18-20, 25 & 26 August. Spaces are limited - so be quick to avoid disappointment! Find out more on the Be Well website.

❤️ Want to learn more about growing your family through adoption? Join Together for Adoption for a FREE virtual event on Saturday 28 June (9.30am). The team will talk you through the adoption process and you’ll also be able to ask any questions you may have about adoption. Book your place on eventbrite.