Celebrating 25 Years of Changing Lives: A Landmark Year for Lincolnshire Action Trust

2025 marks a truly special milestone for Lincolnshire Action Trust: our 25th anniversary.  A quarter of a century ago, we began with a simple but powerful mission: to support people in contact with the criminal justice system and help them build more positive futures. Over the years, we’ve grown, adapted and responded to changing needs, and this year we’ve taken time to reflect, celebrate and plan for the future.

 

A Year of Celebration and Connection

To commemorate 25 years of impact, 2025 has been full of meaningful activities and initiatives that have brought our mission to life in new and visible ways.

Here are some of the highlights so far:

 

A Fresh New Look

We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our refreshed brand, including a new logo and a reimagined website. These updates reflect our modern, inclusive and forward-thinking approach, while remaining true to our values.

 

Giving Back – Staff Volunteering

To mark our 25 years, our dedicated team set an ambitious target of 250 hours of volunteering in 2025, and we’re proud to say we’ve exceeded it! Staff supported local communities and took part in events like the Lincoln Run for All 10k and Lincoln Half Marathon.

 

Recognised and Honoured

In March 2025, we were proud to be named Charity of the Year by the Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce, a testament to the hard work and impact of our team over the past two and a half decades.

 

Celebrations and Coming Together

Throughout the year, we’ve connected with staff, partners and supporters in small and big ways, from 25th anniversary cupcakes to upcoming special events including the Lincolnshire Action Trust Rehabilitation Awards in early November. This awards scheme aims to recognise outstanding individuals, teams and organisations that support rehabilitation and reduce re-offending across Lincolnshire and Humberside.  A celebration evening for staff and trustees is also planned for later in the year.

 

Our Journey Timeline

Launching with the new website is our 25-year timeline celebrating key milestones and stories from our journey, a visual reminder of how far we’ve come and the lives we’ve touched.

 

Reflecting on Our Journey

From humble beginnings, LAT has grown into a leading force for positive change within the criminal justice system. We started by delivering employability support for people on probation in the community, and over time expanded our work to meet wider needs including housing, wellbeing, domestic abuse support, and specialist services for women and girls.

 

We’re proud to have pioneered initiatives that have since inspired similar projects nationwide, most notably the launch of our first Departure Lounge at HMP Lincoln in 2015.  Located within our FIRST Centre (Family Information and Release Support Team), the Departure Lounge is staffed by our dedicated team who mentor and support men who are approaching release and, crucially, continue this support after release from HMP Lincoln.

 

One of our proudest recent milestones was the opening of the first Women’s Centre in Lincolnshire – Women RISE – in 2023, offering holistic support for women at risk of contact with the criminal justice system. We support women who may be experiencing issues such as difficult emotions, isolation, challenging relationships, financial strain, exploitation, unhealthy coping strategies, addiction and mental health issues.

 

The Numbers Behind the Impact

Behind every statistic is a story of someone who took a step forward, found hope, or rebuilt their life with the support of LAT.

•  20,000+ people supported each year;
• 30+ delivery locations across Lincolnshire and surrounding areas;
• Launch of Women RISE in 2023;
• Pioneered the Departure Lounge model in 2015;
• Launch of new programmes tackling housing, employment and wellbeing;
• Expanded support across each stage of the criminal justice system

 

Looking Ahead – Building on 25 Years

While we’re proud of how far we’ve come, we know our work is far from done. That’s why we’re excited to have launched our new Strategic Plan for 2025–2030, building on the foundations of the past to:

• Reach more people
• Deliver support in more locations
• Address wider and more complex needs
• Continue to influence national thinking in rehabilitation and resettlement

 

Join Us on the Journey – Become a Trustee

As we look to the future, we are also looking to grow our Board of Trustees. We’re seeking individuals who share our passion and values, and who can bring fresh perspectives, skills, and commitment to our mission.

 

If you’re interested in helping to shape the next chapter of LAT’s journey, we would love to hear from you. Further details can be found here.

 

A big thank you to everyone who has supported LAT over the past 25 years including staff, volunteers, partners, funders and clients. This anniversary is a celebration of your commitment, compassion and belief in change.

 

Here’s to the next 25 years of hope, progress, and opportunity!