Chats with Changemakers with Kate Duffy from Junction Point CIC

Kate Duffy of Junction Point CIC
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Let us inspire you as we interview North East Changemakers; ranging from Community Champions to Social Enterprise Founders to Charity Leaders. They share their origin stories and how make a difference in their community. So grab a cup of tea and enjoy!

  1. Jun 11

    How One Small Charity is Tackling Domestic Abuse in the North East: Catherine Marchant

    In this episode of Chats with Changemakers, host Kate Duffy speaks with Catherine Marchant, CEO of Impact Family Services, a charity dedicated to supporting adults, children and young people affected by domestic abuse. Catherine shares her journey from the Civil Service into charity leadership and how a short-term role at Impact Family Services became a long-term mission to help break cycles of domestic abuse within local communities. The conversation explores the realities of leading a small charity, including funding challenges, income diversification, balancing multiple leadership roles, and the importance of workplace support for those experiencing domestic abuse. Catherine also reflects on the lessons she has learned throughout her career and why listening to yourself can be one of the most important leadership skills of all. Key Takeaways • Breaking the cycle of domestic abuse requires prevention, education and long-term family support. • Small charities can create significant impact through innovation, partnerships and community engagement. • Diversifying income streams is essential in an increasingly challenging funding environment. • Workplace domestic abuse training can help employers better support their staff. • Strong leadership relies on trusted teams, good governance and adaptability. • Work-life balance is essential for long-term sustainability and effectiveness. • Listening to yourself and embracing change can lead to greater fulfilment and impact. • Community support plays a vital role in sustaining local charities and services. Chapters 00:00 Catherine's Journey to Making a Difference 03:55 Launching Impact Family Services 06:58 Mission and Operations of Impact Family Services 09:46 Funding Challenges and Strategies 13:07 Balancing Multiple Roles 16:00 Wisdom and Lessons Learned 19:10 How You Can Support Impact Family Services 24:19 Breaking the Cycle of Domestic Abuse 25:14 Innovative Income Generation Strategies 25:41 Personal Growth and Change 25:56 Chats with Changemakers Outro Useful Links Connect with Catherine Marchant and Impact Family Services Websitehttps://impactfs.co.uk/ LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/catherinemarchant/ Workplace Domestic Abuse Traininghttps://impactfs.co.uk/education-training/ Follow Impact Family Services on social media to help raise awareness of domestic abuse and support their mission. Instagram https://www.instagram.com/impactfs.co.uk/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/impactfamilyservices/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/impact-family-services/ Donate toiletries, hygiene products, gifts, arts and crafts materials, or funds to support families accessing their services. https://impactfs.co.uk/support/ Take part in fundraising events such as the Great North Run or organise your own challenge event. https://www.greatrun.org/events/great-north-run/ Connect with Kate Duffy and Junction Point CIC ● Website: https://junctionpoint.co.uk/● LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kateduffyuk/● Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/junctionpointuk● Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/junctionpointcic/ Check Out Our Level 2 in Starting & Developing a Social Enterprise Qualification https://junctionpoint.co.uk/level-2-starting-a-social-enterprise-qualification/ Join the Free North East Changemakers Community https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1YA7oQVvd3/

    26 min

  2. May 28

    How Music Can Change Lives and Build Confidence: Philip Drew on Southside Music

    In this episode of Chats with Changemakers, host Kate Duffy speaks with Philip Drew, founder of Southside Music, a purpose-led music tuition business helping people across South Tyneside build confidence, creativity, and connection through music.Phil shares how years working in the corporate telecoms world left him searching for something more meaningful. What began as a weekend piano teaching role alongside his corporate career eventually became a bold leap into self-employment and community-focused entrepreneurship.The conversation explores the realities of building a purpose-led business from scratch, including the challenges of self-funding, navigating uncertainty, and growing demand in the early stages. Phil also discusses the importance of accessible music education, the decline of creative opportunities in schools, and his vision for scholarship-funded tuition for people from disadvantaged backgrounds.Key TakeawaysPurpose-led businesses can create meaningful local impact without being a CIC.Music education can improve confidence, wellbeing, creativity, and connection.It is never too late to learn a new skill or pursue a new direction in life.Building a business requires resilience, adaptability, and thorough research.Social impact and financial sustainability can successfully work together.Adult learning and creativity are often overlooked but hugely important.Community support and word-of-mouth are essential for grassroots businesses.Accessible creative opportunities can help reduce inequality and isolation.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Phil’s Journey into Purpose-Led Work00:51 Leaving the Corporate World Behind03:26 Discovering the Impact of Music Tuition 06:08 The Birth of Southside Music08:04 Why Music Education Matters10:02 Creating Scholarships and Accessible Tuition11:39 Choosing the Right Business Structure14:25 Lessons Learned from Starting a Business16:55 How the Community Can Support Southside Music18:40 Why Music is for Adults Too21:24 Reflections on Purpose-Led Business and CreativityUseful LinksConnect with Philip Drew and Southside MusicFacebookhttps://www.facebook.com/share/1Cea5XgbjX/Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/south_side_music_?igsh=ZTUxM2tpeHRqNzU4LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-drew-6161a8192?utm_source=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=member_androidConnect with Kate Duffy and Junction Point CIC● Website: https://junctionpoint.co.uk/● LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kateduffyuk/● Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/junctionpointuk● Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/junctionpointcic/Check Out Our Level 2 in Starting & Developing a Social Enterprise Qualificationhttps://junctionpoint.co.uk/level-2-starting-a-social-enterprise-qualification/Join the Free North East Changemakers Communityhttps://www.facebook.com/share/g/1YA7oQVvd3/

    24 min

  3. May 14

    Changing Lives Through Textile Recycling: Afi Dometi on Africawad

    In this episode of Chats with Changemakers, host Kate Duffy speaks with Afi Dometi, founder of Africawad Recycling CIC, a social enterprise turning unwanted clothing into employment, opportunity, and empowerment for women in the UK and overseas. Afi shares how her own experiences of isolation and adapting to life in the UK inspired her to create Africawad. What started in her living room has grown into an international operation using textile recycling to support employment, confidence, mental wellbeing, and economic independence. The conversation explores the realities of building a purpose-led organisation, from scaling operations and accessing social finance to overcoming setbacks and staying focused on impact. Afi also introduces the idea of “social profit” — measuring success not just through money, but through lives changed and futures created. Kate reflects on the power of social enterprise as a vehicle for transformational change, and how Africawad balances environmental impact with meaningful community support. Key Takeaways Purpose-driven businesses can create impact far beyond their original mission. Social enterprise can support environmental, social, and economic change simultaneously. Determination, courage, and adaptability are essential when building something meaningful. Creating opportunities for connection and confidence can transform lives. Recycling can become a powerful vehicle for employment and empowerment. Social profit can be measured through lives changed, not just money earned. Community support, collaboration, and asking for help are vital for growth. Financial sustainability and social mission can successfully coexist. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Afi’s Mission 01:16 A Calling to Help Others 04:36 The Birth of Africawad Recycling CIC 06:32 Supporting Women Through Opportunity and Connection 08:40 Lessons in Determination and Leadership 11:01 Growing from a Living Room to an International Operation 13:14 Creating Global Impact Through Recycling 15:03 Challenges, Resilience and Social Finance 15:52 How to Support Africawad 16:55 Reflections on Social Profit and Purpose-Led Business Useful Links Connect with Afi on LinkedIn https://uk.linkedin.com/in/afi-dometi-39319134 Visit the Africawad Website:  https://www.africawad.org/ Donate Clothes to Africawad Here: 203 High St, Gosforth, Newcastle upon Tyne NE28 7RS Check Out Our Level 2 in Starting & Developing a Social Enterprise Qualification https://junctionpoint.co.uk/level-2-starting-a-social-enterprise-qualification/ Connect with Kate Duffy and Junction Point CIC ● Website: https://junctionpoint.co.uk/ ● LinkedIn:   / kateduffyuk   ● Facebook:   / junctionpointuk    ● Instagram:   / junctionpointcic    Come and join our free 'North East Changemakers Community' on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1YA7oQVvd3/

    20 min

  4. Apr 23

    The 30th Birthday Crisis That Built a Charity: Phil Douglas on 10 Years of Curious Arts

    In this episode, Kate Duffy is joined by Phil Douglas, the Chief Executive & Producer of Curious Arts, an LGBTQIA+ arts, youth, and heritage charity based in the North East. As the organisation celebrates its 10th anniversary, Phil reflects on its evolution from a small social venture in 2016 to a robust Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO). With over 15 years of experience developing inclusive artistic projects across the North, Phil shares the personal spark that led him to start Curious Arts—a desire to be a "good human" and address the gap in authentic representation. Beyond his work with Curious Arts, Phil is a passionate advocate for Queer Arts, Outdoor Arts, and Dance, and serves as a Trustee for Mortal Fools and Birkheads Wild. In this conversation, Phil discusses the "growing pains" of professionalising a charity, the importance of staying steadfast to your mission, and the significant new responsibility Curious Arts has taken on: the custodianship of Newcastle Pride. (And yes, we also touch on his love for festivals, human rights, dogs, and cake!) Key Takeaways The Power of Listening: Curious Arts conducts an annual community listening exercise to ensure their work remains a response to genuine need rather than mainstream trends. Navigating Structural Change: Insights into the transition from a Company Limited by Guarantee to a CIO to better align with the funding landscape and partner expectations. Planning with Purpose: The challenge of financial forecasting in a volatile climate and the importance of laying down "anchors" in your planning, even when the future feels unpredictable. Avoiding Founder Syndrome: Phil discusses the importance of succession planning and decentering leadership to ensure the organisation’s mission outlasts its founder. Values Over "Shiny Things": A reminder to stay steadfast to your core mission rather than chasing funding for projects that don't align with your values. Chapters 00:07 – Welcome and introduction to Curious Arts.01:21 – Phil’s "Why": Turning 30 and seeking a generative purpose.02:48 – Moving from local authority work to creative entrepreneurship.04:53 – The birth of Curious Arts and the first pilot festival in 2016.08:28 – The transition to a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO).12:16 – Looking ahead: The next 10 years and shared leadership.14:34 – Pearls of Wisdom: Values, planning, and asking for help.17:35 – Call to Action: Supporting local Prides and LGBTQIA+ organisations.19:47 – Kate’s Outro: Reflections on succession, finance, and purpose. Useful Links Connect with Phil on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/curious_phil/ Connect with Curious Arts on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/curious_arts/ Connect with Newcastle Pride on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newcastlepride.uk/ Connect with Phil on LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/phil-douglas-72222a92 Visit the Curious Arts Website:  https://curiousarts.org.uk/ Visit the Newcastle Pride Website:  https://www.newcastlepride.co.uk/ Connect with Kate Duffy and Junction Point CIC ● Website: https://junctionpoint.co.uk/ ● LinkedIn:   / kateduffyuk   ● Facebook:   / junctionpointuk    ● Instagram:   / junctionpointcic    Come and join our free 'North East Changemakers Community' on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1YA7oQVvd3/

    23 min

  5. Apr 9

    From “Just a Hobby” to a Social Enterprise Changing Lives: Yulia Dzenkovska, Mint Stitches CIC

    In this episode of Chats with Changemakers, host Kate Duffy speaks with Yulia Dzenkovska, a creative social innovator exploring both craft-based wellbeing and the growing role of AI in social impact work. Yulia shares her journey of building Mint Stitches CIC, and how a personal passion for creativity evolved into a mission-driven organisation focused on empowerment, inclusion, and mental wellbeing. The conversation explores Yulia’s non-linear path to finding her purpose, highlighting the role of experimentation, reflection, and tools such as Ikigai in shaping direction. She discusses the realities of early-stage social entrepreneurship, including balancing multiple roles, maintaining strategic focus, and navigating uncertainty while building something meaningful. Alongside her work in the creative and community space, Yulia reflects on her transition into AI-focused roles, and how developing digital skills has opened up new opportunities to support organisations and sustain her wider impact. She shares the challenges of balancing income-generating work with mission-driven projects, and the importance of staying adaptable as opportunities evolve. Yulia also highlights the value of community-led design, explaining how listening to real needs helps shape programmes that are relevant and impactful. Looking ahead, she shares aspirations to expand Mint Stitches CIC into more intergenerational work, including initiatives supporting people living with dementia. Key Takeaways Personal passions can evolve into impactful social enterprises through experimentation and reflection. Finding direction is often non-linear, with tools like Ikigai helping to clarify purpose over time. Creative practices can support mental health, connection, and community building. Developing digital skills, including AI, can open new pathways for impact and sustainability. Balancing income and purpose is a key challenge for early-stage social entrepreneurs. Community needs should guide the design and evolution of meaningful programmes. Networking, collaboration, and continuous learning are essential for growth and opportunity. Chapters  00:00 Introduction and Personal Mission 03:42 The Birth of Mint Stitches 06:32 Navigating the Social Enterprise Landscape 09:16 Balancing Multiple Roles 12:12 Lessons Learned and Future Aspirations 15:11 Call to Action and Community Engagement 19:29 Introduction to Mint Stitches and Its Mission 20:23 Finding Your Purpose: The Ikigai Tool 22:15 Community-Led Initiatives and Growth Mindset 23:33 Outro Useful Links Visit the Mint Stitches CIC Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/p/Mint-Stitches-CIC-61571478217708/ Sign Up to The Mint Stitches CIC Newsletter https://tr.ee/92_7fR8Syy Visit the Mint Stitches CIC Instagram Page https://www.instagram.com/mintstitchescic/ Connect with Yulia Dzenkkovska on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdzenkovska/?originalSubdomain=uk Check Out Upcoming Mint Stitches CIC Workshops https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/mint-stitches-cic-107432885581 Check Out The Mint Stitches CIC Ebay Page https://www.ebay.co.uk/str/mintstitches Connect with Kate Duffy and Junction Point CIC ● Website: https://junctionpoint.co.uk/ ● LinkedIn:   / kateduffyuk   ● Facebook:   / junctionpointuk    ● Instagram:   / junctionpointcic    Come and join our free 'North East Changemakers Community' on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1YA7oQVvd3/

    24 min

  6. Mar 26

    Building Resilient Young Minds: Lisa Cryer, BlueJay Wellness CIC

    In this episode of Chats with Changemakers, host Kate Duffy speaks with Lisa Cryer, a scientist-turned-social entrepreneur dedicated to improving youth mental health and wellbeing through innovative, preventative approaches. Lisa shares her journey from a career in scientific research to education, and ultimately into social enterprise, where she now focuses on empowering young people with tools to support their emotional resilience. The conversation explores how Lisa’s personal experiences and professional transitions shaped her mission, including her time working in childhood illness research, her passion for teaching, and her eventual move into wellbeing after experiencing burnout. She discusses the founding of BlueJay Wellness CIC, and how the organisation delivers programmes centred around mindfulness, yoga, breathwork, and sensory tools to support early mental health intervention in schools and community settings. Lisa also reflects on the importance of understanding your “why” as a guiding principle, drawing on frameworks such as Start With Why and Ikigai to explain how purpose can sustain both personal motivation and organisational direction. Key Takeaways Lisa Cryer’s journey from scientist to social entrepreneur demonstrates how diverse career experiences can combine to create meaningful social impact.Early intervention is key in youth mental health, with preventative approaches like mindfulness and yoga helping to build resilience.Understanding and staying connected to your “why” is essential for sustaining purpose in both personal and professional contexts.Programmes that incorporate mindfulness, breathwork and sensory tools can support personalised wellbeing for children and young people.Collaboration over competition strengthens social impact initiatives and enables broader reach within communities.Creative tools, including storytelling and children’s books, can play an important role in engaging young audiences in mental health awareness. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:47 Meet Lisa Cryer 01:28 From Scientist to Educator 03:30 Discovering a Passion for Teaching 04:40 Leaving Teaching & Finding Wellbeing 05:22 Starting BlueJay Wellness CIC 06:30 Supporting Young People’s Mental Health 08:00 Mindfulness in Schools & Sensory Tools 09:00 Working with Different Age Groups 11:30 Measuring Impact & Building Toolkits 14:23 Entrepreneur Journey & Lessons 15:30 The Power of “Why” in Business 16:30 Maze vs Labyrinth Mindset 18:00 How You Can Support Lisa’s Mission 19:00 Children’s Books & Literacy Work 20:00 Collaboration Over Competition 20:58 Final Thoughts & Key Takeaways Useful Links Visit the BlueJay Wellness CIC Website https://bluejaywellness.co.uk/ Connect with BlueJay Wellness CIC on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/BlueJayWellnessCIC/ Learn More About Roundabout Rabbits roundaboutrabbits.co.uk Connect with Lisa Cryer on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/warren-milburn/?originalSubdomain=uk Ready ‘Start with Why’ by Simon Sinek https://www.amazon.co.uk/Start-Why-Leaders-Inspire-Everyone/dp/0241958229 Connect with Kate Duffy and Junction Point CIC ● Website: https://junctionpoint.co.uk/ ● LinkedIn:   / kateduffyuk   ● Facebook:   / junctionpointuk    ● Instagram:   / junctionpointcic    Come and join our free 'North East Changemakers Community' on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1YA7oQVvd3/

    24 min

  7. Mar 12

    How Donated Laptops Are Changing Lives Around the World: Warren Milburn, The Million People Project

    In this episode of Chats with Changemakers, host Kate Duffy speaks with Warren Milburn, founder of The Million People Project, a social impact initiative working to lift one million people out of digital poverty by 2034 through the donation and refurbishment of laptops. Warren shares how the project began during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many families suddenly needed access to technology for remote work, education and essential services but lacked the necessary devices. The conversation explores how the project has evolved from a local effort in the North East of England into an ambitious international initiative, with partnerships developing in South Africa and previous work in Sierra Leone. Warren discusses the practical realities of running the project, including sourcing donated laptops, securely wiping and refurbishing devices, and navigating the logistics of delivering technology to communities that need it most. Warren also reflects on the inspiration behind his work, lessons learned from expanding internationally, and the importance of thinking bigger when it comes to tackling complex social challenges. The episode highlights how access to technology can open doors to education, employment and greater independence for individuals and communities experiencing digital exclusion. Key Takeaways The Million People Project was launched during COVID-19 to help families who lacked access to the technology needed for work, education and daily life. Donating unused laptops can reduce electronic waste while helping people gain access to essential digital tools. Digital access plays a vital role in enabling people to apply for jobs, access services and build new skills. Expanding social impact initiatives internationally brings challenges around logistics, supply chains and local partnerships. Refurbishing technology extends the life of devices while ensuring they are safe, secure and ready for reuse. Collaboration with individuals, businesses and communities is essential to scaling social impact projects. Thinking bigger about solutions can help organisations create wider and longer-lasting impact. Even small donations of technology can create meaningful opportunities for individuals and communities. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Values02:25 How Warren’s Mother Inspires Him03:55 The Million People Project: Origins and Goals06:55 Expanding Beyond Local: International Impact09:58 Challenges and Lessons Learned12:58 Business Model and Operations15:46 Eligibility and Call to Action22:47 Chats with Changemakers 2026 Outro Useful Links The soon to be CIC that manages The Million People Project https://millionpeopleproject.org.uk  The repair and refurbishment arm of the business https://karmabytes.co.uk   The main business - IT services for SMBs that will be a financial pillar of The Million People Project https://infrazen.co.uk  Connect with Warren Milburn on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/warren-milburn/?originalSubdomain=uk Connect with Kate Duffy and Junction Point CIC ● Website: https://junctionpoint.co.uk/ ● LinkedIn:   / kateduffyuk   ● Facebook:   / junctionpointuk    ● Instagram:   / junctionpointcic    Come and join our free 'North East Changemakers Community' on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1YA7oQVvd3/

    23 min

  8. Feb 26

    How a New York Fashion Exec Built a Food Co-op That Changes Lives: The Sunshine Cooperative

    In this episode of Chats with Changemakers, host Kate Duffy speaks with Claire Wayman, founder of The Sunshine Cooperative, a North East UK social enterprise dedicated to local, organic food and community empowerment.  Claire shares her journey from the fast-paced corporate fashion world in New York to creating a cooperative that supports local producers, engages communities, and builds opportunities for those furthest from the job market. The discussion explores the challenges of running a social enterprise, including balancing multiple roles, diversifying income streams, and navigating cooperative structures.  Claire also reflects on the importance of adaptability, co-creation with the community, and innovative approaches to building sustainable businesses that generate meaningful social impact. Key Takeaways Claire’s transition from corporate fashion to social enterprise was driven by a desire to create purpose-driven work.Building strong community networks is central to the success of social ventures.Understanding cooperative structures empowers both founders and members.Diversifying income streams is crucial for sustainability, especially in high street retail.Local, organic food can serve as a powerful tool for community engagement.Adapting to feedback and collaborating with local partners ensures services meet community needs.Even small wins, like connecting people to food and opportunity, create meaningful impact.Passion, persistence, and leaning on your network are key to overcoming challenges.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Claire and Her Journey 05:12 The Sunshine Cooperative: Mission and Operations 10:32 Balancing Multiple Roles in a Social Enterprise 12:42 Understanding the Cooperative Structure 16:44 Lessons Learned and Community Support 23:34 Chats with Changemakers 2026 Outro Useful Links The Sunshine Cooperative Website sunshinecooperative.co.uk Facebook https://www.facebook.com/sunshinecooperative/?locale=en_GB Connect with Claire Wayman on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-wayman-b725b812/?originalSubdomain=uk Connect with Kate Duffy and Junction Point CIC ● Website: https://junctionpoint.co.uk/ ● LinkedIn:   / kateduffyuk   ● Facebook:   / junctionpointuk    ● Instagram:   / junctionpointcic    Come and join our free 'North East Changemakers Community' on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1YA7oQVvd3/

    24 min
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Let us inspire you as we interview North East Changemakers; ranging from Community Champions to Social Enterprise Founders to Charity Leaders. They share their origin stories and how make a difference in their community. So grab a cup of tea and enjoy!

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