Free fun InTheCity

University’s city centre shop is hosting a range of free creative and information sessions for members of the public

Do you want to learn a new skill or gain some advice? Or do you need a central Preston location for your event? 

If so, then the University of Central Lancashire’s (UCLan) city centre shop is the place to go. Over the coming months, a variety of free events are taking place including technology workshops, upcycling furniture days, knitting afternoons and drop in advice sessions. The space can also be used by members of the public for community events.

The weekly activities are based InTheCity, located by the Lune Street entrance to St George’s Shopping Centre.

Lee Macneall, UCLan Engagement and Outreach Officer, said: “The InTheCity initiative is a great project for the community to engage with. Over the coming months, the shop space will see a range of different community events takin place to help benefit the strong bonds between the University and the people of Preston. A major aspect of the two room space is that the community can hire this space for free, helping keep event costs down and pennies in people’s pockets. The project is all about giving back and we’re extremely excited to get started.”

Between 1.00pm and 3.00pm every Monday, a knitting circle takes place so whether you are a beginner or confident enough to go it alone, you are welcome everyone to join the fun. The sessions are run by a local artist who will teach you all you need to know.

If you need information regarding housing, employment benefits or debt then call in between 10am and 12noon every Wednesday. A joint initiative between Citizens Advice and the University will see law students working alongside Citizens Advice staff to take part in free face-to-face drop-in sessions.

Every Thursday from 10.00am and 1.00pm sees the Savvy Surfers workshop where you can learn at your own pace how to use a range of different technology, be it from your smartphone to the internet.

Upcycling is the aim on Fridays when we take old and tiresome furniture and give them a lick of paint and a quick varnish to make them as good as new. All furniture will then be sold on with all proceeds going to local charities. This project is in collaboration with UCLan Centre for Volunteering however anyone is welcome to come and join in the creativity. The session runs from 10.00am to 4.00pm.

On Tuesdays and over the weekend the venue can be hired for free.

To find out more or to book the space please contact Lee via telephone on 01772 895373,   email at [email protected] or Twitter @UCLanWhatsOn