Recent Press Release:

A charity based in the heart of Dewsbury Town Centre is at risk of closing.  Dewsbury and District League of Friendship, or Howlands as it is more affectionately known as, has supported disadvantaged adults in and around Dewsbury for 73 years.  It is based in a beautiful building at the top of School Street and to many is a place of refuge, safety, friendship and belonging.  In recent times Howlands has faced an uncertain future as funding has dried up from many sources.

Mark Boocock, a part-time Development Officer at Howlands said, “It has become increasingly frustrating to try and find funds to simply help sustain the wonderful work that a small group of paid staff and many generous volunteers do at this centre.  There seem to be far fewer opportunities for funding out there. Most Central Government and Local Authority funding has been squeezed due to budget constraints.  The demand from an ever-growing number of charities has increased way beyond what the supply of charitable funds and other sources of income can satisfy.  It’s sad to say, but we may be very close, weeks even, from the closure of what is a lifeline to many people in our local community.  We are not talking huge amounts of money here; we’re looking at 5-figure sums, circa £50,000 a year to fund a gap in income and expenditure for a charity that easily gives back more than that through helping people overcome loneliness and social isolation.”

Howlands, known for its tireless efforts in supporting disadvantaged adults, plays an essential role in our community by tackling loneliness and social isolation. The organisation is a key part of Dewsbury Town Centre, with the building being the only community centre in the heart of Dewsbury.  Originally, the charity came about through an idea to create workshops to provide recreation and handicrafts for disabled people.  With support from various organisations the League of Friendship grew and eventually took residence in a former Victorian Primary School building at the top of School Street in the early 1960s.  Over time the organisation’s constitution has adapted to the interests of those attending and now covers a broad area of helping disadvantaged people who suffer from loneliness, social isolation and/or marginalisation.  The centre is also host to many other local charities and groups who are able to run events and sessions in excellent facilities for people in North Kirklees.  Included in these groups are charities and organisations helping people with mental health issues, people with breathing difficulties, new families who are struggling, people who are building their lives and social skills, and many more disadvantaged groups of people.  There are upwards of 8 other local groups and charities that rely on Howlands being a place they can operate from.  All age ranges find help through support that is run from Howlands with upwards of 200 people a week accessing help through the centre.  Howlands really is a haven of support for many who are suffering from a whole range of issues that disadvantage them in today’s society.

A recent survey of Howlands attendees asked why is Howlands special?  Almost everyone answered that it feels like a family coming here and the social inclusion and interaction is “priceless”.  Most respondents sadly shared that if Howlands was no longer open they would likely stay at home on their own, some saying they would probably just stay in bed.  One attendee said, “I would probably sit alone looking out of the window watching the world go by.”, and many spoke of how depressed they would be without the company, love and kindness they get at Howlands.

Jane, an attendee for the past 2 years, is in her fifties and struggles with paranoid schizophrenia.  She is also extremely shy and introverted.  Her social worker told her about Howlands and since coming initially just one day a week, Jane has found a sense of belonging.  She also reports that since coming to Howlands, Jane has not had an admission to hospital, something that didn’t seem possible before.  We are proud to have played a part in helping Jane, who feels that without Howlands she would likely struggle with her illness and social anxiety and worries that she may not survive. 

“Howlands saved my life, it truly did.  I love the place. The staff are wonderful people and I just feel calm and safe when I’m here.” – Jane, Howlands Attendee

We wholeheartedly echo attendees’ feelings. Howlands is a vital part of our community and it needs our support now more than ever. This community hub is a lifeline for many, offering a sense of purpose, a safe space, and the opportunity to feel part of something greater.  We are desperately seeking donors and supporters, whether it be local businesses or individuals wanting to help out.  Please HELP OUR HOWLANDS!

For more information on Howlands, please visit our website at www.howlands.org.uk.

Help Howlands Campaign | HOWLANDS

Anyone wishing to contribute can do so via the following link:

https://checkout.justgiving.com/lr0wh9il4y

or Text HOWLANDS to 70085 to donate £3.