Leeds City Forum

05/01/2025

Leeds City Council Celebrates Local Figures Recognized in King’s New Year Honours List. Leeds City Council extends Heartfelt Congratulations and gratitude to all the local dignitaries recognized in the King’s New Year Honours List. This year’s King’s New Year Honours List showcases a range of eminent individuals recognized for their significant contributions across various fields. Among the honorees are several notable figures whose efforts have made lasting impacts on their communities and the country as a whole. Numerous well-known personalities and unsung heroes from the city have been acknowledged for their exceptional contributions to communities and individuals in Leeds and beyond. In the sporting arena, Leeds cyclists Tom Pidcock and Katy Marchant have been honored with an OBE and MBE, respectively, for their medal-winning performances at the 2024 Olympics. Additionally, Paul Caddick, chairman of Leeds Rhinos and founder of the Caddick Group property and construction company, has been awarded an MBE for his contributions to sport. Congratulations to all the remarkable individuals awarded in this year’s King’s New Year Honours List. Your dedication, excellence, and service have truly made a significant impact in your communities and across the nation. Your achievements are an inspiration to us all, and this recognition is a well-deserved acknowledgment of your contributions https://leedsstar.co.uk/our-city/leeds-city-council-celebrates-local-figures-recognized-in-kings-new-year-honours-list/

05/01/2025

Leeds Library Showcases 540-Year-Old Illustrated Manuscript to Start the New Year. A breathtaking 540-year-old manuscript, the Horae Beatae Mariae Virginis, or Book of Hours, is set to be displayed in Leeds. Created around 1480 and written on fine vellum, this manuscript is adorned with forty-six vividly illuminated images that illustrate monthly duties and zodiac signs. Originating in the 13th century as a popular devotional tool among the affluent, this remarkable book was intended to guide individuals in maintaining a strict routine of tasks and prayers from the comfort of their homes. Next week, to celebrate the New Year, Leeds Central Library will display this ancient manuscript alongside a selection of historic calendars and almanacs from its collection. Leeds Libraries stand as pillars of the community, providing essential services that go beyond the traditional scope of lending books. They enrich lives, foster a sense of community, and provide spaces where all individuals can learn, create, and grow. Whether through access to information, cultural programming, or community support, Leeds Libraries ensure that every citizen of Leeds has the opportunity to thrive. The Book of Hours will be on display at Leeds Central Library from Jan 7, 2025 https://leedsstar.co.uk/books/leeds-library-showcases-540-year-old-illustrated-manuscript-to-start-the-new-year/

A breathtaking 540-year-old manuscript, the Horae Beatae Mariae Virginis, or Book of Hours, is set to be displayed in Leeds. Created around 1480 and written on fine vellum, this manuscript is adorned with forty-six vividly illuminated images that illustrate monthly duties and zodiac signs. Originati...

05/01/2025

Child’s Play: New Outdoor Scheme Brings Joy and Positive Impact to Leeds Community. A new outdoor play and learning initiative has added excitement to a local community while highlighting Leeds City Council’s ongoing dedication to ensuring children and young people have the best opportunities to thrive and grow. The new initiative, named ‘Play Together, Talk Together’, features seven interactive installations prominently located at the Compton Centre Community Hub & Library in Harehills. These nature-inspired installations were created by Playful Anywhere and Play Explore Art, following a commission by a partnership between Leeds City Council and Nesta, the UK’s innovation agency for social good. Each installation is uniquely equipped with elements like laminated images, sensory panels, and sound tubes, designed to foster meaningful interactions between children and their caregivers while supporting the development of early language and communication skills. Stepping stone trails create a physical pathway connecting the installations to the Compton Centre, enticing young visitors to delve into the children’s library and further ignite their imaginations with books and storytelling https://leedsstar.co.uk/child-friendly-leeds/childs-play-new-outdoor-scheme-brings-joy-and-positive-impact-to-leeds-community/

A new outdoor play and learning initiative has added excitement to a local community while highlighting Leeds City Council’s ongoing dedication to ensuring children and young people have the best opportunities to thrive and grow. The new initiative, named ‘Play Together, Talk Together’, featur...

05/01/2025

Congratulations to all Honorees of The Compassionate City Awards. Janet Wilcock, a devoted foster carer from Leeds who specializes in caring for babies affected by drug or alcohol withdrawal, was celebrated as the Unsung Hero of the Year at the Compassionate City Awards ceremony held at Leeds Civic Hall. The Compassionate City Awards recognize individuals and organizations for their efforts in positively impacting their communities and advancing the council’s vision of making Leeds the best city in the UK. Janet, who fosters through Foster4Leeds, has dedicated over 22 years to fostering approximately 70 infants born addicted to drugs or alcohol. She provides care from birth until they are one to two years old, at which point they usually move on to adoption. Janet Wilcock, a Leeds foster carer specializing in babies born with drug or alcohol dependencies, plays a crucial role that demands immense dedication and skill. These infants require intensive 24-hour care due to their health conditions at birth. Janet’s efforts are supported by a network that includes friends, family, and social workers. In the Community Sports Project of the Year category, Farsley Celtic Deaf FC took home the award. Hyde Park Source was also recognized for their exceptional contributions, receiving the Environmental Achievement of the Year award. The organization operates seven different weekly volunteer gardening groups, including two hosted at Leeds Museums and Galleries’ sites: Leeds Industrial Museum and Kirkstall Abbey. They consistently foster an inclusive environment where community members are encouraged to participate in gardening sessions, build friendships, and enjoy nature https://leedsstar.co.uk/our-city/congratulations-to-all-honorees-of-the-compassionate-city-awards/

Janet Wilcock, a devoted foster carer from Leeds who specializes in caring for babies affected by drug or alcohol withdrawal, was celebrated as the Unsung Hero of the Year at the Compassionate City Awards ceremony held at Leeds Civic Hall. The Compassionate City Awards recognize individuals and orga...

05/01/2025

New Affordable Housing Development Honors Leeds Pioneer at 54North Homes Inauguration Ceremony. Yorkshire’s 54North Homes recently inaugurated a flagship affordable housing project, Leonora House, with a ceremony that drew numerous attendees. This £12 million development features 58 modern apartments, including 28 one-bedroom, 25 two-bedroom, and five three-bedroom units, all designated for social rent in Leeds. Situated on Railway Street close to the city center, the building is named in honor of Leonora Cohen OBE, a Leeds native, textile worker, and renowned suffragette who lived from 1873 to 1978. Leonora House meets the latest dementia-friendly home standards set by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA), aligning with the region’s commitment to accessible living spaces. The development is equipped with modern amenities including electric vehicle charging stations, a secure bicycle storage area, beautifully landscaped gardens, ample car parking, and solar panels on the roof. Leeds is proactive in addressing the diverse housing needs of its population. Alongside new development, the city is renovating existing properties to meet modern standards of living. These renovations are crucial in preserving the architectural heritage of Leeds while ensuring that all housing is safe, comfortable, and suitable for contemporary living https://leedsstar.co.uk/homes/new-affordable-housing-development-honors-leeds-pioneer-at-54north-homes-inauguration-ceremony/

Yorkshire’s 54North Homes recently inaugurated a flagship affordable housing project, Leonora House, with a ceremony that drew numerous attendees. This £12 million development features 58 modern apartments, including 28 one-bedroom, 25 two-bedroom, and five three-bedroom units, all designated for...

05/01/2025

Ready for the Future: Scott Hall Leisure Centre Unveils Modernized Gym. Scott Hall Leisure Centre has reopened following significant upgrades to its gym facilities. The gym has undergone a complete refurbishment, featuring new flooring, lighting, and decorations. Additionally, Leeds City Council has invested in cutting-edge equipment, including the latest gym machines for comprehensive workouts and a new interactive mini sled track. The revitalized gym is expected to draw a substantial number of new members. This increase in membership is anticipated to support the ongoing operation of the health and wellbeing facilities by generating essential revenue for the council. In recent years, significant enhancements have been made to leisure centers, with gym facilities at Rothwell, Wetherby, Armley, and Morley Leisure Centres all recently upgraded. Plans are now in motion to make further improvements at John Smeaton and Holt Park Active. The council’s ongoing investment in its leisure centers is part of a broader initiative to promote active and healthy lifestyles across all age groups and backgrounds. This is achieved by offering more affordable memberships compared to many private sector options. Active Leeds currently operates 16 leisure centers, 12 gyms, and 14 pools https://leedsstar.co.uk/sport/ready-for-the-future-scott-hall-leisure-centre-unveils-modernized-gym/

Scott Hall Leisure Centre has reopened following significant upgrades to its gym facilities. The gym has undergone a complete refurbishment, featuring new flooring, lighting, and decorations. Additionally, Leeds City Council has invested in cutting-edge equipment, including the latest gym machines f...

05/01/2025

Leeds City Council’s 2025/26 Budget Proposals Strained by Soaring Social Care Costs. Leeds City Council has put forward its initial budget proposals for this year, planning to achieve additional savings of around £106.4 million as a result of rising costs and demands, particularly in social care, for the 2025/26 fiscal year. Like many other local authorities nationwide, Leeds is grappling with significantly higher costs to maintain services and a growing demand, particularly in the realm of social care. This includes care for vulnerable children and adults. The council is experiencing challenges in managing the needs of looked after children, especially those who are most vulnerable and require expensive external placements. Additionally, there is a rising demand for adult social care services, particularly for the elderly, adults with learning disabilities, and individuals requiring mental health support. The savings proposals reviewed in October and December are expected to lead to a reduction of 243 full-time equivalent positions within the council. There is a strong commitment to consulting with unions to avoid, minimize, and mitigate compulsory redundancies. However, the substantial financial challenges anticipated for the 2025/26 fiscal year may make such measures unavoidable. Moving forward, Leeds City Council expects to find additional savings of £35.2 million for the 2026/27 fiscal year and £29.6 million for the 2027/28 fiscal year https://leedsstar.co.uk/money/leeds-city-councils-2025-26-budget-proposals-strained-by-soaring-social-care-costs/

11/12/2024

🔊 Buildings will be lit up in red, white and blue tonight and the French flag will be flying from Civic Hall to mark the UK-France Local Government Forum.

Taking place in Leeds on 12 and 13 December, co-hosted by Leeds and Bradford City Councils and supported by the West Yorkshire Mayor, the forum is an opportunity for mayors, leaders, cabinet members, councillors and more to meet, share knowledge and be part of a dialogue with their French counterparts.

"This year’s forum will focus specifically on social inclusion and placemaking and will be extra special in this 120th anniversary year of the Entente Cordiale, which ushered in a new era of cooperation between Britain and France. The ties between the UK and France are deep, historic and vital, and it is the partnerships between our communities that sustain and enrich those ties." -Gov UK website

06/12/2024

Welcome to our vibrant community. We are thrilled to have you join us at www.LeedsStar.App, your go-to hub for all things Leeds. Whether you're looking to engage in lively discussions, stay updated with local events, or explore the myriad of opportunities Leeds has to offer, you've come to the right place. Connect with fellow members, share your experiences, and let’s make our community stronger together. We look forward to seeing your contributions and celebrating the spirit of Leeds with you https://www.LeedsStar.App

24/11/2024

It may be cold outside, but you can get a lovely warm feeling by taking part in CHSF's Christmas Raffle! ❄️🎄🎅

There's some great prizes up for grabs...
💷 £1,000 CASH in time for Christmas!
🤑 £250 CASH
🍸 Meal for two with sharing cocktail at The Alchemist worth £125
🥩 £100 voucher for Estabulo restaurant
🛍️ £50 M&S voucher

👉 Tickets are £10 for a book, or £1 each: www.chsf.org.uk/christmas/ 👈

Thanks so much to everyone who has already taken part, is selling tickets on our behalf and to the generosity of those who donated the prizes!

If you aren't in a position to buy a ticket, a like or a share of this post is just as appreciated 🙏🩷

16/11/2024

Lord Mayor of Leeds to Host Festive Fundraiser to Support Community Equality. The Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung, is preparing to host a special festive fundraiser in support of the Leeds Community Foundation. Since aligning with Leeds Community Foundation in May, Councillor Katung has been actively working to enhance public understanding of the foundation’s crucial role. Leeds Community Foundation stands as a pivotal force in fostering community development and equity across Leeds. As an independent grant-making entity, the Foundation excels in bringing together various organizations and individuals to channel investments into local communities, aiming to build a more inclusive and fair society. The Lord Mayor's Festive Ball is more than just a social event; it is a celebration of the spirit of Leeds — a city united by a commitment to kindness and community support. It presents an excellent opportunity for the people of Leeds to come together, celebrate the festive season, and make a lasting impact on their community https://leedsstar.co.uk/charity/lord-mayor-of-leeds-to-host-festive-fundraiser-to-support-community-equality/

16/11/2024

Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice’s Christmas Fair Promises Festive Fundraising Fun in Leeds. Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice’s Christmas Fair will bring Festive Fundraising Fun to Leeds next month. Visitors can look forward to a winter wonderland of stalls offering handmade crafts, Christmas decorations, and unique gifts, perfect for stocking fillers and secret Santa surprises. Local artisans and businesses will be showcasing their products, giving attendees the chance to support local craftspeople while finding that perfect holiday gift. The fair will not only be a shopper’s paradise but will also feature a variety of entertainment. Carol singers will fill the air with classic holiday tunes, creating a merry atmosphere. Children will have the opportunity to meet Santa Claus in his grotto, making the event a magical experience for the younger guests. Everyone in and around Leeds is invited to St Chad’s Parish Centre on Saturday 7 December, as Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice brings back its Christmas Fair — a festive event for all ages and an opportunity to support the charity. With free of charge entry, the Christmas Fair offers crafts and creative activities, live music, festive fundraising stalls, and much more https://leedsstar.co.uk/charity/sue-ryder-wheatfields-hospices-christmas-fair-promises-festive-fundraising-fun-in-leeds/

16/11/2024

Middleton Park Lodge Nursing Home Spreads Joy on World Kindness Day. Middleton Park Lodge Nursing Home marked World Kindness Day with a heartwarming initiative, setting out to spread positivity and kindness throughout their local community. The dedicated staff organized numerous activities and gestures of goodwill to brighten the day of both residents and neighbors alike. Middleton Park Lodge, a member of the Orchard Care Homes group which manages 23 facilities across the Midlands and North of England, celebrated World Kindness Day with enthusiasm and a commitment to community goodwill. Originating in 1998, World Kindness Day was created by the World Kindness Movement to emphasize the importance of good deeds and the universal value of kindness. To all the wonderful residents of Middleton Park Lodge Nursing Home: May your days be brightened by the love and kindness that surround you, and may your hearts always feel the warmth of connection and care. We would like to wish you moments of joy and laughter, memories that bring smiles, and peace that fills your soul. May each day bring new reasons to celebrate the beauty of life, and may you always know how deeply valued and loved you are https://leedsstar.co.uk/lifestyle/middleton-park-lodge-nursing-home-spreads-joy-on-world-kindness-day/

16/11/2024

Progress Update on Leeds’s Health and Housing Programme. Leeds continues to make strides in its innovative Health and Housing Programme, aimed at boosting public health through improvements in housing conditions. This programme, integral to addressing health disparities in the city, has made notable progress in various initiatives over the past year. One of the standout projects within the programme is the weatherproofing scheme. This initiative, funded by Leeds City Council and delivered by Care and Repair Leeds, has significantly improved living conditions for the city’s most vulnerable residents. By targeting homes privately owned by individuals with disabilities, long-term health conditions, or the elderly, the scheme has upgraded 45 properties in 2023/24 with plans to enhance 55 more by March 2025. The improvements in heating and insulation have led to reduced energy costs and markedly better physical and mental health outcomes for the occupants. As the Leeds Health and Housing Programme progresses, it consistently showcases the significant benefits of integrating health and housing strategies on the overall well-being of its residents. This initiative is paving the path towards a healthier and more equitable city, demonstrating the crucial link between quality housing and improved public health outcomes https://leedsstar.co.uk/health/progress-update-on-leedss-health-and-housing-programme/

Leeds continues to make strides in its innovative Health and Housing Programme, aimed at boosting public health through improvements in housing conditions. This programme, integral to addressing health disparities in the city, has made notable progress in various initiatives over the past year. One....

16/11/2024

White Rose Express Christmas Grotto Makes Festive Return to Shopping Centre. The festive season has kicked off at White Rose Shopping Centre with the return of the beloved ‘White Rose Express’ Christmas grotto this weekend. The center is now adorned with steam train-themed decorations, creating a magical Christmas atmosphere. Upon entering the centre, visitors are instantly drawn into the festive spirit, guided by an enchanted train track that leads to Santa Claus waiting in a vintage train carriage. This unique experience will be available every day until Christmas Eve. The holiday excitement extends across White Rose with carnival rides located in The Village, suitable for children aged three to ten. The attractions include tea cups, monster trucks, and bungee trampolines, with rides priced at £3 per child, accepting only card payments. Moreover, the holiday festivities at White Rose will be further enhanced by the return of its family-friendly ice rink starting November 21st. This year, the ice rink is in partnership with JD, which coincides with the grand opening of its larger, upgraded store in the shopping centre https://leedsstar.co.uk/whats-on/white-rose-express-christmas-grotto-makes-festive-return-to-shopping-centre/

The festive season has kicked off at White Rose Shopping Centre with the return of the beloved ‘White Rose Express’ Christmas grotto this weekend. The center is now adorned with steam train-themed decorations, creating a magical Christmas atmosphere. Upon entering the centre, visitors are instan...

15/11/2024

09/11/2024

Lord Mayor of Leeds to Lead Citywide Remembrance Tribute. Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung, the Lord Mayor of Leeds, extends a heartfelt invitation to all to participate in the city’s Remembrance Sunday observances, honoring the servicemen and women who have given their lives for their country. This solemn event is scheduled to take place at Victoria Gardens on Sunday, November 10th. Festivities will commence at 10:50 AM when a group of dignitaries departs from Leeds Civic Hall. They will join a procession that includes ex-servicemen and women, various veterans’ organizations, and active military personnel. This procession will march from Rossington Street to the war memorial, leading the tribute. Remembrance Sunday is more than just a historical commemoration; it is a day to reflect on peace, the resilience of the human spirit, and the enduring hope that from great sacrifice comes a greater appreciation for the value of life and freedom. As communities come together to remember, they also reaffirm their commitment to fostering a peaceful world https://leedsstar.co.uk/our-city/lord-mayor-of-leeds-to-lead-citywide-remembrance-tribute/

09/11/2024

Oxfam Seeks Volunteers in Leeds to Donate Time During Festive Shopping Surge. Oxfam’s charity shops across the UK are bustling hubs of activity where volunteers contribute their time and energy to help combat global poverty and injustice. These shops, which range from high street storefronts to larger superstores and specialized hubs, rely heavily on the dedication and enthusiasm of volunteers to operate effectively. Volunteers at Oxfam shops are more than just staff; they are ambassadors for change, playing a pivotal role in the charity’s mission to create a fairer world without poverty. From sorting and pricing donated goods to creating attractive window displays and interacting with customers, volunteers handle a variety of tasks that are crucial to the day-to-day running of the shops. As Christmas approaches and Oxfam’s four Leeds shops gear up for a bustling season, the charity is reaching out to the community for volunteers. Oxfam is asking locals to contribute their time during the holidays to support efforts in combating global poverty and inequality. Volunteers are welcome to dedicate whatever time they can throughout the festive season and beyond https://leedsstar.co.uk/charity/oxfam-seeks-volunteers-in-leeds-to-donate-time-during-festive-shopping-surge/