Accrington-based charity ‘Spring into Action’ is holding its first fashion show fundraiser and the funds raised will help people with learning disabilities find love and friendship.

The fashion show, at the Civic Arts Centre and Theatre in Oswaldtwistle on 11 March, is being organised to coincide with International Women’s Day.

The event will begin with a live modelling exhibition performed by the organisation’s volunteer ambassadors, of the charity, of affordable ladies’ clothing and accessories for all fashion types, by clothing company ‘Your New Wardrobe’.

The bar will be open throughout the evening and after the modelling, guests will have the opportunity to browse the clothing items and accessories, whilst listening to live music with Dawn Vickers who is also a director of the community interest company.

Ticket proceeds, money raised on the night and 20% of all clothing sales will be donated to the charity’s Meet and Match services, which gives those with learning disabilities support in meeting new people and forging friendships and relationships.

As Valentine’s Day approaches Spring into Action managing director Lucy Hamlin says: “Everyone should be able to have meaningful friendships and relationships but for some adults with learning disabilities that is not always easy to achieve. 

“Our Meet and Match services give people who may need some extra support, with an opportunity for people to get out and meet new people for friendship or relationships in a safe way.

“We provide personal introductions and supported meet-ups, as well as running social events to people to have a night out, which are supported by our fantastic volunteers”

An LGBTQ+ social meet up hosted by Meet N Match (Facebook/@MeetNMatchNW)

Jason, a member of Meet N Match says: “I've been on Plenty of Fish and Tinder and had bad experiences because I don't know the rules and people don't understand me, so this service is really helpful and I wanted to say thanks for helping me.”

David, another member says: “I absolutely love being a member of Meet N Match. Everyone is very helpful and kind, I just wanted to say thank you for everything that you are doing for me”

Samantha Nott, Events & Marketing Coordinator said: “We are very grateful to everyone who supports our work and we are so excited about our first live event this year. It’s time to celebrate what life is all about - love, support and nurturing relationships. And fun of course!

We have chosen to host this fundraiser at the Civic, because it is where we ghost one of our amazing nights out as well as being a community based local venue”

To support this worthy cause, and have some fun at the same time, please purchase tickets, which cost £10 each, at https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/civicartscentre/t-onqodm.