Celebrating Network for Europe’s Legacy

We are delighted to celebrate the remarkable legacy of Network for Europe and its decades long commitment to the voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector.

Positive impact

For many years, Network for Europe championed fairness, clarity and accessibility in European investment across the region. Their influence helped VCFSE organisations navigate complex systems and secure vital support, to deliver life changing projects in communities that needed them most. As the organisation now steps back, we want to acknowledge the positive, long-term impact they leave behind.

Announcing the grant winners

We are also pleased to announce the winner of the Network for Europe Legacy £500 Grant, created to continue their mission by supporting organisations that carry forward their values.

Town in the Town

Town in the Town, based in St Helens, has been awarded the grant for their exceptional Hope United project. The project supports refugees and asylum seekers, notably through their football team, Hope United FC, which trains and plays in partnership with organisations including St Helens College and St Helens Town AFC. Through sport, the project encourages community connection, wellbeing and integration.

Jak's World Forever

Jak’s World Forever, based in Salford, also received a £100 award to support the delivery of three holistic one to one grief and life support sessions. These sessions are designed for Polish-speaking women aged 18 and over who are experiencing bereavement, trauma or ongoing life challenges.

Lifetime Achievement Awards

In a heartfelt and unexpected moment at our celebration event, we were thrilled to present Lifetime Achievement Awards to Andy Churchill and Ann Marie Wrigley, recognising their outstanding contribution to the sector and their long-standing dedication to the VCFSE sector.

Both have played instrumental roles in shaping the landscape of European investment across the North West. Their expertise, advocacy and unwavering commitment have supported countless organisations and ensured that voluntary sector voices were heard at every level.

Their recognition was met with deep appreciation from colleagues across the region, reflecting the immense respect they have earned over the years.

Warren Escadale, VSNW Chief Executive, said: “We’re proud to honour that legacy and to recognise the incredible contributions of Andy and Ann Marie, who have given so much of themselves to this work. Their dedication has strengthened our region and inspired so many of us along the way.

“The values that Network for Europe championed remain central to our mission at VSNW. We will continue to advocate for fair, accessible and community-led investment that strengthens the voluntary sector for years to come.”