Marsden donates £3k to support women’s well-being across Pendle

The Marsden Building Society Charitable Foundation has awarded £3,000 to the Female Friendship Forum to fund weekly well-being sessions for women over 50 in the Pendle area.

The Female Friendship Forum provides positive experiences for isolated women struggling with their mental well-being. This donation will help the project reach and engage with women over 50 throughout the Pendle area.

The funds will help deliver activities such as yoga, self-defence, arts and crafts, sewing, talks on self-care, and the chance to get closer to nature. The sessions aim to support increased self-confidence, a positive outlook on life, improved physical and mental health, as well as opportunities to build new friendships.

Rob Pheasey, Chief Executive of the Marsden Building Society, said: “Mental health is just as important as our physical health, so providing mental well-being sessions within our communities is vital. This initiative offers a valuable lifeline for women in the Pendle area who need a helping hand in improving their well-being. Through the Marsden Building Society Charitable Foundation, we’re proud to support valuable projects like this, which improve the lives of people living within our local communities.”

Farida Ahmed, Chair of the Female Friendship Forum, added: "The funding provided by the Marsden has allowed us to deliver a variety of activities to women in the area to benefit their health and well-being. We look forward to continuing to work with the Marsden in the coming years."

Since launching its Charitable Foundation in 2023, Marsden Building Society has awarded 22 grants, totalling just over £60,000. The funds are managed by the Community Foundation for Lancashire, which works closely with organisations to help ensure their charitable donations have the greatest impact where they’re most needed.

The Marsden Building Society Charitable Foundation aims to support projects in Lancashire focussed on three key themes: financial well-being, societal inclusion, and the environment.