Look Ahead in the North 2026

Look Ahead in the North (LAN) is a residential weekend taking place each year at The Calvert Trust, Kielder. The event sees members from all of the Northern branches of Headway come together to enjoy a weekend of activities and socialising.

In 2026 the event took place from 13th-15th March. We had 30 people from Headway Tyneside join us this year!

Outdoor adventures

For the adventurous of us, there was no shortage of adrenaline-inducing fun! With amazing drops on the king swing, twists and turns on the zip coaster and scary ascents on the high ropes. To those who got involved we admire your bravery!

There were bull’s eyes hit in archery, axes swung in axe throwing and bells rang at the top of climbing walls. There were so many outdoor activities to choose from put on by the amazing staff at the Calvert trust. We also had a visit from the Birds of Prey centre, introducing us to some of their cutest owls!

Evening Entertainment

Friday night started off with the annual quiz, despite two fantastic Headway Tyneside teams, we didn’t podium this year, time to get revising for the next one. The worst top competition retuned this year, the crown going to Sonia for an absolutely diabolical t-shirt!

Live music from Headway Berwick followed in the evening, topped off with karaoke which was somehow even better than last year – we had the return of old favourites and a brand-new rendition of ‘It wasn’t me’ by Matty that had us all in stitches!

Indoor activities

There was so much to do inside – we had a new activity of willow weaving this year where we made beautiful willow dragonflies. It was a lovely new activity where we could take our craft home with us.

We also loved the new LAN Jukebox ran by David from Headway Northumberland. This gave us a special opportunity to play and talk about the records that mean something to us. A special spotlight on Dave and Sue, who brought in a record featuring a song from Dave’s former band.

African drumming returned this year, continuing the musical theme to the weekend, along with our 1920’s Charleston dance class ran by Jo!

Memories to last a lifetime

LAN 2026 was a great experience, allowing our members and carers to get involved in fun activities. This weekend is so valuable, and we are so thankful we are able to offer such an opportunity to our members.

To Rathbones for their funding and everyone who provided support for LAN this year – thank you! We couldn’t do it without your support.

Click on the gallery below to see some of our favourite pictures from the weekend.