Preston recycling business gets nod, digital skills day at Deepdale, and changes to support for domestic abuse
By Nicola Adam
Published 27th Mar 2026, 05:30 BST
News in brief: Preston recycling business gets nod, digital skills day at Deepdale, and changes to support for domestic abuse
- Preston-based Recycling Lives Services has secured recertification as a B Corporation, reinforcing its position as a purpose-led provider of recycling and waste management services at a time when organisations are placing increasing scrutiny on how waste is handled and reported. Headquartered in Preston, with multiple sites across the city, the organisation has grown from a local recycling operation into a national provider supporting businesses across construction, infrastructure, manufacturing and retail. The company achieved a B Impact Score of 103.5, significantly above the 80-point threshold required for certification and more than double the median score. The announcement comes during B Corp Month, a global campaign recognising businesses that meet high standards of social and environmental performance. Lucas Hargreaves, Projects Director at Recycling Lives Services, said: “ We believe environmental performance and social impact should sit at the heart of a business, not on the sidelines. As expectations continue to rise, organisations are looking for partners who can demonstrate both.”
- BT Group hosted a multi-generational digital skills day in Preston, bringing together students, teachers and older residents for hands-on learning aimed at boosting confidence and tackling digital exclusion. The event comes as new research from BT shows 86% of over 65s want simple, clear guidance to help them understand what's genuine online. Held on 12 March at Deepdale Football Stadium, the event brought together students aged 11–14 and adults aged 55+ for practical digital learning sessions. Students explored digital skills and future careers, with a particular focus on STEM, while older learners received training to build digital confidence, including online safety and everyday digital tasks. Richard Marsh, BT Group’s Responsible Business Director, said: “In Preston we saw the power of bringing generations together - learning from each other while tackling digital exclusion in a practical, human way. Sir Mark Hendrick, Labour MP for Preston, said: “I’m delighted that BT Group has chosen to come to Deepdale to deliver this community event. This is a great example of how improved digital connectivity can support local priorities in Preston and bring social and economic benefits to the area.”
- Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Clive Grunshaw has announced changes to support for victims of domestic abuse. From April 2026, all specialist domestic abuse support will be provided by Domestic Abuse Support Services Lancashire (DASSL). DASSL, a partnership of Lancashire domestic abuse services led by Safenet, already offers safe accommodation and outreach services by working with Fylde Coast Women’s Aid, The Liberty Centre, KEY, Be Free, Emily Davison Centre and HARV. The additional support commissioned by PCC Grunshaw means that DASSL now also provides the Independent Domestic Violence Advocate (IDVA) Service while expanding outreach services to offer longer-term support. Commissioner Grunshaw said: "Any form of domestic abuse is unacceptable and, as Commissioner, I am committed to tackling all forms of violence against women and girls, a key priority in my Police and Crime Plan for Lancashire.