Blog

Celebrating a year of support across the Borough of Rochdale

Throughout the month of April, we’re focusing our stories on the many wonderful projects and events some of our member organisations have been able to provide to their communities thanks, in part, to either grants received, support, training or advice from our Funding team at Action Together.

We help our members find, and secure, funding right across Oldham, Rochdale and Tameside but our story below shines a light on the Rochdale Communities Fund, which we’re delighted to say has now been providing grants for Rochdale based groups for almost a whole year! 

The Rochdale Communities Fund is a mutual fund to invest in and strengthen Rochdale Borough’s VCFSE sector. It funds groups and projects which directly benefit local people and communities, delivered by VCFSE organisations with roots in the borough.

Various grants comprise the Rochdale Communities Fund, each with their own focus. From Micro Grants which help groups to support individuals, families and communities, with a focus on challenging poverty and driving equality and promoting health and wellbeing to our Food Solutions Fund which supports groups in providing emergency and immediate food offers, as well as the longer-term sustainability of food providers. Find out more about each of the grants on our website: Grants Awarded in Rochdale

Here we share the enormously successful story of Rochdale Mayfield ARLFC who received funding from the Micro Grants Fund for their ‘Building the Future’ programme.

As the main community Rugby League club in the Borough, they felt they had responsibility to promote and encourage young children into the sport to ensure player participation increases year on year. The funding they received enabled them to launch their Building the Future programme which provides a fun and engaging environment to introduce children from local primary schools to the sport of Rugby League. 

Qualified coaches from the club, and the professional game, provided schools with six-week blocks of Rugby League delivery for classes during, and after, curriculum time. All sessions were high energy and focussed on fun, with children learning core rugby league skills and improving their fundamental movement skills with an emphasis on teamwork and personal development.

The success they’ve had following the launch is incredible. Twenty of the children who participated in one of the programmes have taken up the sport and are now part of the Mayfield family. They have been delighted with the numbers of participants and told us each programme got better each time. The project not only provides children with an amazing opportunity but also gives their young coaches valuable experience working with children from a variety of community areas and backgrounds

If you have an idea just waiting to get off the ground please contact us at: funding@actiontogether.org.uk and find out how we can help you with support to get you started and shape your vision into a fundable project, guidance to ensure your funding application is successful and highlight the training and support services we have on offer.

As part of our Funding Campaign this April we are pleased to bring you news of a fantastic fund on offer for organisations with strong connections to Darnhill, Rochdale thanks to Greater Manchester Violence Reduction Unit.

The Community-Led Approaches Programme from the GMVRU, and 10GM is being administered by Bolton CVS and is a community-led approach to violence reduction. This means the Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) works closely with communities to understand the strengths, challenges, and needs of the community and determine how local investments will be made.

Several boroughs across the city-region have already received funding from the VRU as part of its investment in community-led programmes, outlined in Greater Manchester’s Serious Violence Action Plan and expressions of interest are now invited from organisations with strong connections with Darnhill to form an alliance to work together to develop the key areas identified.

The key focus of the programme is ensuring that young people and stakeholders come together, focusing on a strength-based approach, to identify what’s going on, what’s not happening and to develop ideas from within the community to inform projects and activities.

The aim for outcomes for young people living in Darnhill as result of this funding include:

• Improved aspirations
• Improved access to activities and opportunities
• Improved mental and physical wellbeing
• Improved relationships between young people and their parents/carers
• Improved sense of pride, respect and belonging in their community

Expressions of interest should bring together a partnership of voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations who can achieve these outcomes in Darnhill. The delivery proposals need to prioritise young people aged 8-25 years and the grant offer is up to £100,000.

If you are a community organisation with links to Darnhill and feel you could work together with other groups to put a project in place, please see the information below on how to make an application.

For more information on how to apply, please visit: www.boltoncvs.org.uk/funding/greater-manchester-violence-reduction-unit/

There is also an information packed ‘Meet the Funder’ session planned for Monday 15 April, 1pm-2pm, where you can find out about:

• Eligibility for investment
• How to apply for the funding
• How to work as an alliance
• How the project will be monitored
• Deadline for applications
• Any questions you might have about the Darnhill VRU

You can register HERE to join the online Meet the Funder.

Find out more about the VRU Community-Led Approach to Violence Reduction project: gmvru.co.uk/community-led-approach/ 

You can learn more about the strategy behind this programme through the Greater Than Violence Strategy: gmvru.co.uk/greater-than-violence-strategy/

Action Together’s Funding your ideas Campaign will be taking over this April! Throughout this month, we will be sharing success stories from our member organisations who have received grants, helpful tips to ensure your funding application has every chance of being approved, and highlighting the support services we offer that you should be taking advantage of!

ROYTON & CROMPTON OVER 60’S GROUP

Project name: Celebrating the freedom of post covid

Funding: One Oldham Fund Cost of Living Support Grant (micro grants £1,000)

To kick off our Funding Campaign, we would like to share Royton & Crompton Over 60's Group's story.

Royton & Crompton Over 60's Group are an Oldham based group that meet on a weekly basis, and aim to social isolation and loneliness. The group do a variety of activities such as crafts, games, entertainment, but also welcome those who would just like to sit and talk.

Following the post covid period, which lots of members of the group found difficult, Royton & Crompton Over 60's Group wanted to organise a special day by the seaside to help lift spirits and ‘blow the winter cobwebs off’. For this, they planned for a coach trip to Southport with a hot carvery meal at a hotel and an afternoon of leisurely activities.

This would be attended by 52 members of the group, who were also involved in the planning of what they would like to do, which sparked much excitement.

With the cost-of-living crisis weighing heavily on everyone, Royton & Crompton Over 60's Group also wanted to offer a free meal to celebrate Mother’s Day, so that members wouldn’t have to eat alone.

Following a successful application process and support from the Action Together team, Royton & Crompton Over 60's Group were awarded £1,000 from the One Oldham Fund Cost of Living Support Grant Application.

The group were delighted to receive this grant and we’re able to celebrate freedom post covid as planned.

If your group would like support with a funding application, please contact us at funding@actiontogether.org.uk

Sunday 31 March marks this year’s annual International Transgender Day of Visibility. The day is dedicated to recognising the resilience and accomplishments of the transgender community, while also raising awareness about the discrimination and violence still faced by transgender people.

According to Stonewall’s LGBT in Britain Work Report (2018), a third of trans people reported being the target of negative comments or conduct from work colleagues in the previous year, with higher rates of harrassment and bullying being faced by disabled and/or Black, Asian and minority ethnic trans people. As a sector of organisations which are committed to tackling injustice in our communities, we can lead the change in developing welcoming and inclusive workplaces for our transgender colleagues and service users. 

Here are some actions you could take, and how we are embedding them at Action Together:

1. Brush up on your language. We recognise that there can be some anxiety over saying the ‘wrong’ thing, so we are working on including glossaries of terms in all of our EDI documentation to support colleagues in feeling confident with their choice of words. You can find some helpful terms to get started at the bottom of this document.

2. Make respecting pronouns the norm. All of our email signatures contain the sender’s pronouns, and you will hear many of our colleagues introduce themselves by name and pronoun in meetings. This normalises sharing pronouns, so when a transgender or non-binary person shares theirs, they won’t stand out as the ‘only one’.

3. Assess how inclusive your policies are. Our policies are constantly under review so we can ensure that policies relating to parental leave, harrassment and bullying, and health and wellbeing provide explicit protection for employees of all genders.

4. Provide inclusive facilities. Gender-neutral toilets are available at both our Oldham and Rochdale offices, with Rochdale also providing gender-neutral shower rooms. We actively work with the building managers of our office sites to improve the inclusivity of the facilities available to our employees.

5. Create opportunities for feedback, and act on it. Our new supervision template includes dedicated questions relating to EDI, and we regularly survey our teams to ask how we can be a more inclusive organisation. We are working on formalising our feedback procedures outside of these specific opportunities, including ensuring each locality has at least one dedicated equity and inclusion champion, and creating an anonymous online reporting procedure. We also report back to employees when action is taken so they can trust their voices are being heard.

6. Develop a culture where learning is encouraged and facilitated. We have dedicated spaces for employees to share information and resources about different experiences and perspectives. 

Helpful terms - remember, individuals know themselves best, so try to use the language they use to describe themselves!

Gender - the social norms typically associated with members of a particular sex/an individual’s identity in relation to these norms e.g. man, woman, non-binary etc.

Sex - the physical characteristics used to categorise people based on their genitalia, chromosomes, and hormones e.g. male, female, intersex.

Intersex - an adjective used to describe somebody who was born with a combination of male and female genitalia/chromosomes/hormones. Many intersex people are unaware of their intersex status, as doctors frequently determine sex based on external genitalia alone.

Transgender - an adjective used to describe any person whose gender doesn’t match the sex they were assigned at birth. This can include trans men, trans women, non-binary people, etc.

Non-binary - an adjective used to describe an individual who doesn’t identify solely with the terms man or woman. This can include agender (people who don’t identify with any gender), gender fluid (people whose identity is not fixed), and other terms. 

Cisgender - an adjectives used to describe any person whose gender does match the sex they were assigned at birth e.g. women who were assigned female at birth, men who were assigned male at birth.

Pronoun - a word used to refer to a person in place of their name e.g. he/she/they. People’s pronouns can, but do not always, reflect their gender.

AFAB - stands for Assigned Female At Birth, and means that a person’s original birth certificate said they were female. Some trans men and non-binary people may use this term to explain that they were given the label of female when they were born.

AMAB - stands for Assigned Male At Birth, and means that a person’s original birth certificate said they were male.  Some trans women and non-binary people may use this term to explain that they were given the label of male when they were born.

14 March 2024 marks Social Prescribing Day, a time to celebrate Social Prescribing and the thousands of local voluntary groups, activities and services supporting people’s health and wellbeing.

Anne-Marie was referred to our Oldham Social Prescribing team after losing her mum and becoming quite isolated and low in mood. She has learning difficulties and needed support to improve her socialisation and mood. 

She met with her Social Prescriber as she needed support with benefits, independent living/housing information, social groups, employment support and education. 

Anne-Marie shared a bit about her journey with Oldham Social Prescribing...

"My name’s Anne-Marie Jones, I’m 28 years old and I live in Oldham.

I started having problems with my mental health and it got to the point where I couldn’t cope anymore. So, I went to the GP and got referred over to Oldham Social Prescribing.

Once I got referred, Debra from Oldham Social Prescribing phoned me up and invited me to have a chat. We’ve had lots of regular catch ups since then.

I’d been applying for PIP and with the help of the Social Prescribing, I’ve been able to get it! They’ve also helped me look into more social groups get and out of the house more.

I get a lot of support though Social Prescribing, and it’s nice to have someone to talk to.

Debra has been a great, and such a big help to me.

My hopes for the future are to get myself into a job in retail, or maybe even youth work.

I feel a lot better than I was a few months ago, now I’m getting the right support and help.

For anyone who’s been in a similar position to me, I’d say get in touch with your GP.  I’m not sure where I’d be without the help of Oldham Social Prescribing."

Social Prescribing has helped Anne-Marie access local groups and activities and education classes. She also regularly visits Oldham Leisure Centre and she now attends multiple sessions at MENCAP in Drama, Dancercise, Music Therapy. She is also participating in English, Maths, Dyslexia classes at Lifelong Learning.

After accessing a referral from her GP, Anne-Marie is in the process of being fully assessed as this is something that she was never able to do.  She is now receiving the appropriate benefits .

Anne-Marie has made lots of progress thanks to her commitment and the services she was able to engage with.

To find out more about our Oldham Social Prescribing service, please click here 

International Women’s Day is an annual event celebrated on 8 March, and is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women's equality. IWD has occurred for well over a century, with the first IWD gathering in 1911 supported by over a million people. Today, IWD belongs to all groups collectively everywhere.

This year’s theme is #InspireInclusion, encouraging us all to consider how we can make the world inclusive to all women.

At Action Together, we believe in the strength and impact of our communities. Across Oldham, Rochdale, and Tameside, our members are doing fantastic work to support women, and we want to celebrate this. Here are just some examples of the incredible resources available in our communities:

Oldham

The Oldham Women’s Network is made up of groups who offer a range of support and services for women, including skills development, access to clothing, children’s activities, multi-lingual therapy, friendship and connection, English classes, and fitness classes. More information, as well as a directory of groups, can be found here - Oldham VCFSE Women’s Network | Action Together

GM South Asian Women’s Out of Hours Support has a helpline for South Asian women who are feeling isolated or suffering from domestic abuse, forced marriage, poor mental health, and would like to improve their mental health and wellbeing - Greater Manchester South Asian Women's Out of Hours Support » Women's voices must be heard! (gmsaw.co.uk)

Rochdale

Rochdale Women’s Welfare Association are celebrating 40 years of supporting women and girls this week, and offer English classes, a girls’ club, a safe space warm hub, and counselling, amongst other services, with a particular focus on women from BME backgrounds - Home - Rochdale Women’s Welfare Association (rwwa.org.uk)

The Touchstone Tapes podcast have featured some amazing Rochdale women, including our very own Nichelle Cutler, in their International Women’s Day episode - 7. Women in Rochdale - The Touchstones Tapes | Podcast on Spotify

Your Trust at Rochdale Leisure Centre are running an event on Friday 8 March 9am-3pm to celebrate the day, socialise and have fun with fitness. No booking is required for activities and it is open to all including non-members - International Women's Day at Rochdale Leisure Centre - Your Trust (yourtrustrochdale.co.uk)

Wonderfully Made Woman in Middleton (Wonderfully Made Woman – Lighthouse Project), Flourishing Vines in Middleton, and Knit and Natter at Heywood Library (Knit and Natter and Crochet Chatter Group - Heywood Library | Rochdale Borough Council) all operate around school hours and welcome young children along with their mums.

De Butterfly offer services such as counselling, community activities, and mentoring for BAME women - Home | De Butterfly CIC

Tameside

The Water Adventure Centre (WAC) runs weekly sessions on Mondays for girls and young women, with female youth workers and the opportunity for participants to decide what activities they would like their funding to be spent on - Water Adventure Centre (WAC) - Young Women's Evening

Holy Trinity Community Centre offer ESOL classes for women with little or no English who may be unable to access formal education - ESOL Classes : Holy Trinity Church & Community Centre, St Peter's Ward, Ashton-under-Lyne (htccc.org)

Diversity Matters North West offer multiple services for ethnic minority women such as mentoring and employment skills training, with the option to choose to work with female members of staff - Projects – Diversity Matters NW

Lindley Educational Trust runs weekly meetings and activities as well as day activities and residential trips for girls and young women, with female youth workers acting as role models - Lindley Educational Trust

The Oldham Community Lottery is fantastic fundraising channel, which voluntary and community organisations based in Oldham have been taking advantage of through registering as a 'Good Cause', allowing supporters to give regularly and with ease!

Supporters who sign up to play the Oldham Community Lottery are given the opportunity to select which registered Good Causes they would like to support, and these organisations receive proceeds from the ticket sales. Players are also given the chance to win incredible prizes each week! 

Since launching in July 2023, the Oldham Community Lottery has had 56 organisations register as Good Causes, one of which being Firwood and District Residents Association.

FADRA was formed in 2008 at the North Chadderton Estate by people who felt that there was a need for a community group to organise and arrange activities for the benefit of all residents. At the time there were no public spaces or facilities that could help to create a community and bring residents together.

Since joining the Oldham Community Lottery in July 2023, FADRA have raised £358.50! (Figure dated February 2024)

We caught up with Graham Taylor from FADRA to share their experience of the Oldham Community Lottery and how the funds have been used to support them. 

"I helped to set up a similar lottery, operated by Action Together, at a local primary school as part of the PTA group that I was involved with. I knew it worked there so recommended it to our FADRA committee.

We are saving the funds raised so that we can use them to set up an activities day in our Community Woodland during the Easter holidays. This day would celebrate the opening of our new Wildlife Biodiverse Pond when we will bring in a professional to organise a pond dipping experience alongside some other outdoor nature related experience. We will be inviting the Mayor of Oldham to officially open the new pond and event."

The Oldham Community Lottery encourages volunteer and community organisations based within Oldham to register to become a 'Good Cause', and raise vital funds through incentivised giving today!

"It was quite easy to set up. From memory, we had to apply then soon after we completed our registration along with our bank details and a short story about FADRA. Then we became one of the good causes in Oldham. We then told all our residents about our involvement and how we would receive 50p from every ticket played. We continue to regularly promote our involvement in the Oldham Community Lottery via our Facebook page.

To other organisations thinking about becoming a good cause...It's a no brainer! It doesn't cost anything. Your good cause is promoted via the lottery with little input from yourselves. It elevates the status of your cause as being part of something bigger in Oldham."

To register your organisation as a Good Cause, please visit www.OldhamCommunityLottery.co.uk/good-causes

Click here to purchase tickets to support the Firwood and District Residents Association.

If you have any queries, get in touch:
email: support@oldhamcommunitylottery.co.uk
tel: 01613 972030 (Our support line is open 9am - 5:30pm Mon - Fri)

Action Together can help your organisation from the first spark of an idea, through to being ready to find and secure funding and then on to getting your amazing project off the ground. We can support you in planning what you want to achieve, deciding what your funding needs are, and ensuring the sustainability of your project.

We're committed to supporting and empowering our communities, securing investment that supports local action, removes barriers and helps to get funding to where it is needed most. We believe that investment is at the heart of building fairer, stronger communities and, by securing funding for community projects, we can create more opportunities for people to thrive and improve social outcomes.

Our Rochdale Communities Fund is a prime example of this, and the diverse, community-focused projects it has funded are really inspirational.

Micro Grants making an impact

Our Micro Grants form a huge proportion of the funding allocated from the Rochdale Communities Fund, and the voluntary organisations, community groups and social enterprises who have received this are making a significant difference in Rochdale, creating positive social change and supporting local communities. Thanks to funding from Rochdale Borough Council Public Health team, we offer Micro Grants of up to £1,000 to help the VCFSE sector to support individuals, families and communities in the Rochdale Borough. 

Throughout 2023, funding from our Micro Grants enabled numerous Action Together members to deliver their diverse range of projects and activities to communities across the Rochdale Borough.

From an 'Eid Science Extravaganza' and a 'Film Festival to a 'Yoga and Wellbeing Programme' and a 'Building the Future School Programme' we have been inspired by the many amazing things the Micro Grants have funded. Take a look at some of the fantastic success stories so far...

Rochdale Mayfield ARLFC
With their Micro Grant funding Rochdale Mayfield ARLFC delivered their 'Building the Future School Programme' which provides a fun, engaging environment to introduce children from local primary schools to the sport of Rugby League. Coaches from Rochdale Mayfield ARLFC and Rochdale Masters are out in the local community providing six-week blocks of Rugby League delivery for classes during, and after, curriculum time. Follow them on social media to find out more about this Programme, and the many other activities they offer: twitter.com/Mayfieldrl If you, or your organisation, would like more information please email: info@rochdalemayfield.com or members@rochdalemayfield.com and one of their team will be in touch.

Strawberry Moon CIC
Strawberry Moon Wellness CIC provide free, or affordable yoga and wellbeing services to improve pre/postnatal wellbeing, and post traumatic growth support for families who have experienced baby loss. Their funding from the Micro Grants enabled them to deliver 'The Peaceful Pregnancy Project', a six-week yoga and wellbeing project, running two yoga classes per week - one pregnancy yoga class and one rainbow pregnancy yoga class (pregnancy after loss). Find out more about their project: www.strawberrymoon.org.uk/community-projects-collaborations

Rochdale Science Initiative
Back in March, Rochdale Science Initiative CIC held an Eid Science Extravaganza 2023 thanks, in part, to their Micro Grant. With a focus on climate change, keynote speakers from Manchester Metropolitan University and community leaders the event was a huge success. Making science more accessible to diverse communities and attended by more than 1,400 the event featured science stalls and activities, including a planetarium - all with the aim of bringing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to ethnic minorities. Check out their review of the event: www.rochdalescience.co.uk/news/rochdale-science-extravaganza-2023/

Kashmiri Productions
Kashmiri Productions delivers community projects which promote culture, language, history, heritage and provides training to groups or individuals. They were funded through the Micro Grants Fund to organise a not-for-profit film festival in July at Reel Cinema Rochdale. The AJK Film Festival provides a platform for filmmakers and communities to come together and aims to promote Kashmiri culture, language and identity through moving image with films held in Urdu, Punjabi, Pahari, Pothohari and English languages. The event was attended by the Deputy Mayor of Rochdale, local councillors and residents, with people also travelling from Bradford, Preston, Blackburn, Bolton, Huddersfield, Ashton, Manchester and Oldham.

Hamer Boxing Club
The funding awarded to Hamer Boxing Club enabled them to deliver free Cost of Living Boxing Session to its members. As part of these sessions, the Club also offered the opportunity for private, one-to-one chats with their coaches and staff about Cost of Living and any challenges their members were facing. They felt they were in the ideal position to offer support as some people felt more comfortable talking to them about their issues, rather than speaking with professionals or the Council.

Stars and Stitches
Stars and Stiches CIC provides community art workshops and professional art therapy for those with disabilities and other stigmatised experiences. They aim to provide a safe space and support people to live their life to its’ full potential by overcoming their difficulties through community arts and art therapy. They utilised their Micro Grant to run a six-week project creativing collaborative art with their participants with the theme of 'Journeys'.

New Seed Fund launches in Rochdale

From evidence published in the State of the Sector Report, we know that 77% of VCFSE organisations in Rochdale borough are micro-organisations, receiving an annual income of less than £10,000. With this in mind, we are launching our new Seed Fund, with easy access grants of up to £500. As part of the Rochdale Communities Fund, our 'Seed Fund' is aimed at Rochdale based micro-organisations and community groups who are unconstituted.

Find out more: www.actiontogether.org.uk/new-seed-fund-launches-rochdale

Could we help you?

Could we help your organisation with your next project or idea? We can help you:

• get all the things you need in place before you apply for funding
• write successful funding bids
• win tenders
• diversify your income streams
• become more financially sustainable

Contact our team on: 0161 339 2345 or email us at: development@actiontogether.org.uk

The Oldham Community Lottery is fantastic fundraising channel, which voluntary and community organisations based in Oldham have been taking advantage of through registering as a 'Good Cause', allowing supporters to give regularly and with ease!

Supporters who sign up to play the Oldham Community Lottery are given the opportunity to select which registered Good Causes they would like to support, and these organisations receive proceeds from the ticket sales. Players are also given the chance to win incredible prizes each week! 

Since launching in July 2023, the Oldham Community Lottery has had 51 organisations register as Good Causes, one of which being Friends of Royton Linear Park.

The Friends of Royton Linear Park are a very active volunteer group within Linear Park, helping to preserve the wildlife of the area, encourage community enjoyment and carry out essential maintenance in the park.

Since joining the Oldham Community Lottery in July 2023, Friends of Royton Linear Park have raised £193! (Figure dated January 2024)

We caught up with Shirley, to share their experience of the Oldham Community Lottery and how the funds have been used to support them. 

"Adele from Action Together came to one of our committee meetings and told us about the Oldham Community Lottery. Although we’d previously held a couple of events and applied for funding to a number of organisations , we have no ‘regular’ income. The Oldham Community Lottery also gives our members a means of supporting us if they can’t volunteer their time to our projects. And, of course, they might just buy a winning ticket!

Thanks to the Oldham Community Lottery, we have been able to purchase tools - spades, hoes, trowels etc for our Gardening Group."

The Oldham Community Lottery encourages volunteer and community organisations based within Oldham to register to become a 'Good Cause', and raise vital funds through incentivised giving today!

"It was easy to register and we were quickly up and running. We also had support via the video and Action Together.

Join the Oldham Community Lottery - you’ll have access to marketing materials, regular updates on super draws and extra prizes and it’s a great way to get your community supporting you! "

To register your organisation as a Good Cause, please visit www.OldhamCommunityLottery.co.uk/good-causes

Click here to purchase tickets to support the Friends of Royton Linear Park.

If you have any queries, get in touch:
email: support@oldhamcommunitylottery.co.uk
tel: 01613 972030 (Our support line is open 9am - 5:30pm Mon - Fri)

The 2023 Tameside Toy Appeal was hugely successful once again this year thanks to the support and generosity of the wonderful people of Tameside. The volume of donations and support for the appeal ensured that every nominated child received a gift for Christmas, and the goal for the Just Giving campaign was smashed!

Read our full news article here: www.actiontogether.org.uk/2023-tameside-toy-appeal-huge-success

Thousands of toys and gifts were donated to the appeal by the amazing people of Tameside, local businesses, schools, churches, community groups and charities. We were overwhelmed by the generosity shown and by the sheer number of people wanting to help those most in need within our communities.

The Appeal wouldn’t be what it is without our dedicated team of volunteers. Our Toy Taxi Drivers helped us collecting donations of toys and gifts from the many drop-off points across Tameside, and by delivering them safely to the Children’s Centres. We were astounded, and very fortunate, in 2023 to have lots of local people sign up to become Toy Appeal Volunteers, as well as great Tameside charities such as Ashton United in the Community who offered their support too.

We smashed our JustGiving Fund target and all of the money raised was used to buy gifts for the appeal. Most years we find that we are low on gifts for teenage boys and very young babies and the JustGiving Fund donations enables us to fill in any of those gaps. 

We had a really great selection of official drop-off points for the 2023 Appeal, located all across the borough. The luxury of having so many drop-off points made it easier for more people to make donations and it also helped us to promote the Appeal far and wide.

2023’s Festive Fundraisers left us speechless! Between them they raised well over £5,000 for the Appeal which they used to purchase toys and gifts for Tameside families. We loved seeing Kathy and Olivia return to support us, as they have done for many years. We were also very pleased to welcome Harrison, Tom and Aaron to the Tameside Toy Appeal Team for 2023.

Our fundraisers are incredible people that go out of their way to make a difference. Each year we create a special video to sum up just how much impact this wonderful appeals has, the difference it makes to so many families across Tameside and to show our appreciation to everyone that has supported us in our mission. You can watch that video HERE.

Warmhearted Tameside children stepped up to support the Appeal

One of the most touching elements of the Appeal was the amount of Tameside children who wanted to 'do their bit' and be involved. Our Action Together team and volunteers visited many schools, children’s hubs and community centres and had the privilege of meeting some of Tameside’s incredible young people. It has been very inspiring hear these children talk about how they want to help other children.

These young people have made a massive difference. They have helped us by donating epic amounts of toys and gifts to the appeal and, because of them, the profile of the Tameside Toy Appeal was raised to new heights. They have gone above and beyond and we are truly grateful!

From individual fundraising to organising collections within their schools, there were some really heartening stories...

Olivia Kenyon individually raised over £900 for the Appeal, making necklaces, snap bands and badges. Olivia sold her homemade items to raise money which she then used to buy brand-new toys for those children living in poverty here in Tameside. Tameside Radio Reporter, Mark Andrews, spoke to Olivia when she visited Hyde Children’s Centre to drop off the toys. Hear her interview HERE.

“I started fundraising in 2020, during lockdown. There were lots of kids that were not going to get anything for Christmas, I wanted to make sure they did. I have carried on fundraising every year since then”  Olivia Kenyon - Age 9

Eleven year old 'festive fundraiser' Harrison Tucker raised £500 for the Appeal by giving up chocolate for Stoptober. He then used the money raised to buy lots of toys and gifts for families that need them the most. Watch Harrison talk about why he wanted to support the Appeal HERE.

“I decided to do Stoptober and give up chocolate. I started raising money through sponsorships and then went out and bought lots of toys. It makes me happy knowing that there will be children with smiles on their faces on Christmas Day because of what I’ve done to help.”   Harrison Tucker - Age 11

Numerous local businesses pledged their support once again

The Appeal was incredibly fortunate to have the support of so many local businesses. In fact, we had more business supporters in 2023 than any other year, and because of this we saw huge amounts of toys being delivered to the Children’s Centres in Tameside. 

It was great to have the continued support from the businesses that work with us every year, and it was amazing to work with lots of new businesses too. 

We had a fantastic number of official Tameside Toy Appeal drop off points dotted all across the borough, which made it even easier for the public to make donations of toys and gifts. 

We also received several very generous donations of money to our dedicated JustGiving Fund from local businesses, and were able to smash our fundraising goal. Every single penny of the money raised was used to buy toys and gifts for those children most in need in Tameside.

In addition, many local businesses choose to host toy collections for their staff members, clients and customers to take part in. We have been blown away by the generosity shown, and the number of people wanting to help others and make such a difference. 

Here's what some of our supporting businesses had to say about their involvement;

"It warms our hearts that we are honoured to support the Tameside Toy Appeal for the second year in a row. Our community has many families facing difficult times, living in poverty, and Christmas can be incredibly challenging for them as they struggle to provide presents for their children. Shockingly, over a third of Tameside children are living in poverty. Winter will be harsh, and some families must choose between heating and eating. We wanted to help make a difference this Christmas, so we donated £500, and each team member donated gifts too.”  The EF Group

“We have supported the Tameside Toy Appeal for four years. We are proud as a business to be able to support the Tameside community, and we look forward to being able to do it again in the future. This year we donated £500 to the appeal so that toys can be provided to the families most in need within our communities.”  Besseges (Valves, Tubes and Fittings) Limited

"Incredibly proud of our team! We’ve been working with Action Together for over five years, to help provide a gift for children in the local community, through the Tameside Toy Appeal. Even as a global organisation, we’ll always strive to make a positive impact to those on our doorstep in Greater Manchester.”  Brother UK

The work carried out by our member organisations to tackle the impact of food poverty never ceases to amazes us. Here we're delighted to showcase how Rochdale based Army of Kindness are making a huge difference to the lives of vulnerable and homeless people.

Their Winter Season evening food kitchen, funded partly from our Rochdale Communities Fund Food Solutions Grants, provides free, hot meals each Thursday between 5pm and 6:30pm for those who are homeless, vulnerable or in need at St Andrews Methodist And United Reformed Church.

Around 100 people are currently accessing the service every week, including more than 25 vulnerable families who, in addition to the free winter meals, are receiving food parcels from Army of Kindness thanks to donations that the charity receives from Coalition of Kindness.

Last week, The Mayor and Mayoress of Rochdale visited Army of Kindness to see their kitchen in action and were impressed to see how much of a positive impact the group is having. 

Army of Kindness will continue their free hot food offer throughout the festive period, including Christmas Day from 12pm-4pm. The normal Thursday evening kitchen operates on a walk-in basis for anyone who may require their services, however, to attend on Christmas Day please book your place your place by calling Sheraz on: 07940 470705 or email: sheraz@armyofkindness.co.uk

We caught up with Mohammed Sheraz from Army of Kindness to reflect on their wonderful project and how the Rochdale Communities Fund had enabled them to continue their free, Thursday hot meal offer;

"Army of Kindness would like to thank Action Together for this funding, it is going to enable us to continue to provide extra meals and food as we face an increasing demand for our service.

We are currently seeing lots of families attending now, along with their children, just for the most basic of needs - a hot meal and a hot drink.

We are so grateful for this grant as it is such a lifeline for so many of the families, and referrals we are working with in Rochdale during this winter period. Thank you again!"

You can learn more about our Rochdale Communities Fund Food Solutions Grants, and the projects that have benefitted from the latest round of funding here: www.actiontogether.org.uk/rochdale-communities-fund-food-solutions-grants

Can you help?

Army of Kindness is also currently running its Winter Appeal, and you could make a real difference with your donation. The charity are calling for donations, in new or excellent condition, of warm hats, gloves, scarves, coats, jumpers, hoodies and sanitary products. If you can help, please drop off at St Andrews Church (next to Leisure Centre), Entwisle Road, Rochdale OL16 2HZ on Thursdays between 4:30pm and 6:30pm.

Food Support Signposting in Rochdale Borough

Rochdale's Food Solution Network are working hard to ensure food security exists so all people, at all times, have physical access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food. 

In partnership with current food providers, Rochdale Council and Action Together have developed this signposting resource that will help groups, individuals and families get access to food in the borough.

Should you need any further information and support around food, please contact: development@actiontogether.org.uk

Our Rochdale Communities Fund Food Solutions Grants have been fuelling innovative community projects across the borough to address food insecurity and in recent months we have awarded more than £104,000 to 27 community groups and organisations to support their amazing work addressing food insecurity across Rochdale borough.

Here we shine a light on one of our member organisation, and the recipients of this funding, charity organisation Caring and Sharing. Their mission is to empower disadvantaged groups and make a positive difference to the lives of the less privileged in their community. 

The grant they received has been used to continue their provision setting up a pantry to offer culturally appropriate food to refugees, asylum seekers, and other disadvantaged groups is a vital lifeline for many.

Founder and CEO, Nicky Iginla, told us what the Food Solution Grant had meant to them;

The Food Solution Grant has been an active means of lowering hardship in our community, which automatically enhances social cohesion. As an inclusive community, we have been able to maximise our potential of bettering the wellbeing of the people in our community, by provision of healthy cultural appropriate foods, as a way of caring and sharing with one another other. Feedback from the people in the various communities we serve, has shown that the radiance of your generous support goes beyond the smile, happiness and self worth of the people, to building a community of support system.  

Our Food Solution Program supports both low-income earners and unemployed individuals. Thank you greatly for your continuous support in making a positive impact in our community. 

You can learn more about our Rochdale Communities Fund Food Solutions Grants, and the projects that have benefitted from the latest round of funding here: www.actiontogether.org.uk/rochdale-communities-fund-food-solutions-grants

Food Support Signposting in Rochdale Borough

Rochdale's Food Solution Network are working hard to ensure food security exists so all people, at all times, have physical access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food. 

In partnership with current food providers, Rochdale Council and Action Together have developed this signposting resource that will help groups, individuals and families get access to food in the borough.

Should you need any further information and support around food, please contact: development@actiontogether.org.uk

Action Together’s Social Prescribing Team are deeply rooted within Tameside and its communities; this allows us to build on our knowledge and strengthen our growing networks with the various community provisions Tameside has to offer. Social Prescribing is a non-urgent and non-medical service.

Alan's Social Prescribing Story

Alan was referred to our Tameside Social Prescribing service by Rufia, Complex Care Coordinator at Ashton Primary Care Network (PCN). Rufia was one of 452 referrers from a variety of different services who connected the people they support with our Social Prescribing team in the last year.

Alan had told Rufia he was feeling disconnected from the community. After his referral, we connected Alan with Sue, one of our Social Prescribing Officers. Find out more about Sue.

Sue is our Social Prescribing officer for Denton, Audenshaw and Droylsden. Although Alan lives and is registered with a GP in Ashton, Sue was able to support his referral. Although our Social Prescribing Officers are community-based in areas across Tameside, our team are flexible and able to respond to demand in different areas if there is an increase in referrals. Due to the way our team work closely together across Tameside, our local knowledge is extensive and reaches beyond the boundaries of their working area. Last year, our team connected Tameside residents with 455 groups, activities and services both within their neighbourhood and across the wider borough.

Sue initially spoke to Alan over the phone to find out more about him and what he wanted to achieve. Alan's overall goal was to find out more about what's going on locally.

Alan also shared that his wife had passed away a number of years previously. They had enjoyed cycling together, but Alan had given their bikes away after her passing.

Sue provided Alan with a range of information on local services and activities, including AgeUK – Wellbeing Walks, Tameside Libraries Chess Club (at Ashton Library), The Together Centre, The Shed, and The Community Cycle Circuit in Ashton.

Alan expressed an interest in the Cycle Circuit, so Sue contacted Active Tameside, who deliver the sessions. She found out more about the sign-up process, times and sessions to make attending less daunting. Alan then visited the Cycle Circuit to check it out ahead of a session. It's important that our Social Prescribing clients are ready to engage before they begin a new activity, and we work with all our clients to prepare before they try something new. While we provide connections and information, it's the people we work with who take the next step to make a change in their lives. With the support provided by Sue, Alan was able to do just that.

After attending a session, Alan has become a regular at the Cycle Circuit's Monday sessions. He cycles 10k every week, and has taken up completing laps on a racing bike.

"I'm really benefitting from the sessions. I've lost half a stone and am feeling great!"

He's supported by Gary, Active Tameside's Cycle Circuit coach, with regular contact from Sue to see how he's getting on. Gary commented on the difference he has seen in Alan over the past few weeks, and how he is more confident on the bike seems more healthy. Alan is also socialising more with others attending the sessions, too.

Alan is looking to continue at the session and is making plans to get a bike of his own. He's now looking to attend the additional 60 minute Wednesday coach-led ride that starts from the Cycle Circuit and includes routes to Daisy Nook, followed by a brew at the hut at the circuit.

Rufia, who originally referred Alan to Tameside Social Prescribing, commented on how good it is to see the journey of the clients they refer to our Social Prescribing team. She could see how Alan has benefitted from the referral to our team and the connections he has made. Rufia's team also shared that 30% of the patients they are working with are being referred to our Social Prescribing team.

Action Together’s Social Prescribing Team and Community Development Team are deeply rooted within Tameside and its communities; this allows us to build on our knowledge and strengthen our growing networks with the various community provisions Tameside has to offer. Social Prescribing is a non-urgent and non-medical service. Recognising that Social Prescribing is not right for everyone, the team will attempt to redirect people to the appropriate services to ensure they receive support for their priority needs in a timely manner.

Liset's Social Prescribing Story

In December 2022, Liset* contacted our Social Prescribing service by telephone. Liset was a single mother of three young children and lived in temporary housing in Hyde. Liset spoke to our Social Prescribing Administrator, Natalie, about the pressures her and her family were facing due to the rapid increase in the cost of living. With the Christmas holiday fast approaching, Liset went on to explain how she would not be able to afford Christmas dinner for her family.

Prior to this telephone call, our Social Prescribing Team had learned of Haughton Green’s Christmas Foodbank Referral Scheme for 2022. In 2021, the project had provided more than 200 families Christmas dinner to cook at home. The Christmas dinner parcel included a mix of tinned goods, fresh food and enough food and treats to last families throughout the festive period. The project’s priority was to help the most needy families in Tameside. Natalie offered to make a referral to Haughton Green’s Christmas Foodbank, which Liset consented to.

Taking into consideration Liset’s children aged, 5, 6 and 9, Natalie also informed Liset of Tameside’s Toy Appeal. During November/December 2022, Action Together, in partnership with Tameside Reporter and Tameside Council’s Children Centres. Through hard work and dedication from the volunteers, and the generous donations of toys and gifts from Tameside residents, the Appeal enabled 509 families in need across Tameside to give 1,180 children a gift on Christmas day.

Although, the closing date for the Toy Appeal applications had passed by a few days, Natalie telephoned Joanne, the Children’s Centre Co-ordinator in Hyde. Joanne explained that the centre had enough gifts for a family gift box, and kindly offered to arrange this once a referral was made. With Liset’s consent, Natalie completed a referral to the Toy Appeal project.

Furthermore, Action Together’s Social Prescribing team received a variety of donated Christmas gifts from LEAP, through a collaborative project with Dunelm. Natalie teamed up with Social Prescribing Officer for Ashton, Jyoti Mckellar and Social Prescribing Link Worker for Ashton, Tiffany Schofield, to prepare several gift bags for clients who they felt would benefit from it the most. Understanding that Liset was feeling poorly, they offered to deliver it to her home as a one-off exception, since they were driving through the area.

“This will make a huge difference to our Christmas this year!”

A week later, Natalie made her final telephone call to Liset; Liset was able to arrange a lift to Haughton Green’s Foodbank and collect her food parcel which was plentiful and described it as ‘more than enough.’ Natalie notified Liset that her referral to the Toy Appeal had been accepted and gave her the contact details for the Children’s Centre in Hyde. Liset was extremely thankful to have some of the pressure lifted, now that she had the resources to enjoy Christmas with her family. It was agreed that Liset would be allocated to a Social Prescribing Officer, who would contact her in the new year and find out whether Liset was in a better position to start Social Prescribing.

* Name of client changed

What is Social Prescribing?

In short, Social Prescribing helps people to make new connections in their community. 

Our Tameside Social Prescribing Team work with people to help them make new connections in their community. We listen to people to find out what's important to them, what changes they would like to make in their lives, and help identify the best ways to achieve those changes. Our Team connect people to what’s available in their local community, including groups, activities, and appropriate services that they're able to easily access and attend independently.

Our aim is to encourage the people we work with to improve and manage their own wellbeing and we work together with people on a 1-2-1 basis, creating goals to get that person to where they want to be.

We are not support workers, our work is non-medical and non-urgent. We work with people that are motivated and ready to engage with us to make positive changes. Social Prescribing is free and we work with people over the telephone, in community spaces, or by visiting them in their homes.

Tameside Toy Appeal 2023

We're pleased to announce that the Tameside Toy Appeal has returned for 2023 and is set to help families in need across Tameside once again.

You can find out more about this year's appeal, how you can help or how families can be referred to receive support here: www.actiontogether.org.uk/tameside-toy-appeal-2023

National Hate Crime Awareness Week will take place from 14 – 21 October 2023. This is our opportunity to showcase unity within our communities and combat stigma and hate. #WeStandTogether #NoPlaceForHate

What is a Hate Crime?

Hate crimes are acts of violence or hostility directed at people because of who they are or who someone thinks they are. Hate crimes can take many different forms – for example someone may have damaged your property because of the colour of your skin, sent you offensive letters because of what you believe, or behaved violently towards you because of who you love. No hate crime is acceptable. We all have a right to live without fear, hostility and intimidation from others.  - LetsEndHateCrime.com

No hate crime is acceptable, and we all have a right to live without fear, hostility and intimidation. Action Together supports organisations across Oldham, Rochdale and Tameside, and we would like to share the wonderful projects our member organisations have been involved with to help raise awareness.

OPAL Advocacy

Opal Advocacy took a stand against Hate Crime by decorating pebbles with heartfelt messages and trailing them around Oldham Town Centre. Spreading a message of positivity, patience and understanding. 

"At OPAL we are passionate about this project because unfortunately hate crime is something so many people in the LD community have experienced. We look forward to sharing our stories and advice to help raise awareness of this serious issue."

OPAL also created two incredible videos to help raise awareness of the impact of a hate crime and where to find support, click the links below to watch:

• What is a hate crime?
• Where to report a hate crime

Flowhesion

Mighty forces at Flowhesion joined together to have open discussions about hate crime and share their experiences. They channeled their emotions into the artwork below.

Future Directions: The Spice Group

The Spice Group have been getting creative and making posters to raise awareness about hate crime, whilst talking about the topic in a safe way.

"Thank you to Oldham Metropolitan Borough Council and Action Together for supporting us with this project. It's been a great day." 

Oldham Play Action Group 

Oldham Play Action Group shared the art work they have created in play sessions with children. They discussed in Child friendly ways the following topics:

What hate crime is:

 Hate crime is all of these sorts of things. Violence, mean graffiti, damaging property, threatening, horrible letters, phone calls, texts, facebook slagging off, insults, name calling, bullying ​
about …​
 ​
Gender, sex, race, colour, where you and your family come from your nationality, faith is what you believe and if you worship and have a religion, if you are in an alternative subculture like being a goth or a mosher, sexuality who you fancy, because you have any kind of disability.

What is bullying

When someone bullies or hurts someone because they don’t like what and who they are.
It’s hating the most important bits of what makes you YOU. It is an attack on the real you. It makes people frightened, scared, ill, angry, lonely and upset.

Everyone may look different on the outside but we all experience the same emotions on the inside...
Hate crime leads people to these feelings: stress, anger, upset, sad lonely, helpless, hurt, scared, depressed
But being kind can lead to these feelings: happy, elated, excited, loved, cared for, helpful, relaxed, mindful, hopeful

What can we do about it

Anyone can be a victim of hate crime. Anyone can do a hate crime. Don’t be a hater.
Don’t put up with the hate, report it. Tell others what it is and why they should tell. Stand up, speak out tell someone.
Don’t put up with it. If they can do it to you, they will do the same or even worse to someone else.
Don’t think it’s just name calling I can handle that, you don’t have to put up with any hate. If haters get away with little things they’ll move on to bigger things.

Celebrate all faiths, cultures and beliefs! Celebrate all communities!

How we can spread kindness

We have more in common than that divides us!
We can build bridges between people not walls
We have more in common than that divides us ! we really do
We play, we learn, we eat, we have families, we live in Oldham.
We cry, we love, we laugh, we hope for good things, we dream good dreams about the future, we live in Oldham.

What we promise to do: Be kind, Celebrate everyone, Listen, Never judge anyone.

Find out more about hate crime at Let's End Hate Crime – We Stand Together

If you have been a victim of a hate crime, you can find support at Greater Manchester Victims' Services

Check out these funding opportunities focused on groups/organisations wishing to hold events or activities that work towards raising awareness and challenging the behaviours and perceptions of hate crime:

• One Oldham Fund Let's End Hate Crime Grant 23- 24
• Let’s End Hate Crime 2024 Grant Fund Tameside

This week, as part of the 'Saluting our Sisters' theme for Black History Month, we caught up with Nicky T. Iginla, CEO of Caring and Sharing Rochdale. Caring and Sharing Rochdale was founded back in 2017 and is located in both the United Kingdom and Africa. They seek to empower and support the BAME (Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic) community, asylum seekers, and those facing deprivation. They provide essential services for community integration while nurturing the artistic and cultural expressions of our community's youth.

Find out more about their wonderful projects here: caringandsharingrochdale.org

We spoke with Nicky and what Black History Month means to her...

About me, my community, and Black History Month

My name is Nicky Tinu Iginla; I am a highly devoted community leader that has dedicated her life to championing racial equality, intersectionality, and the welfare of marginalised communities. As the founder of the Caring and Sharing Charity Organisation situated in Rochdale, I've taken the initiative to address the systemic challenges faced by the BAME community within Rochdale and its surrounding areas. Our organisation, a beacon of hope for many, serves the marginalised - from asylum seekers and refugees to children affected by ill health and abuse, and even victims of human trafficking.

While many see challenges, I see opportunities - opportunities to empower, uplift, and reintegrate. This belief is mirrored in the charity's efforts to help immigrants and asylum seekers assimilate into their new communities. By offering resources like Signposts and ESOL Classes, along with group activities centred around arts and culture, we have sought to bridge the gap between newcomers and locals, fostering mutual respect and understanding. My commitment extends beyond just direct assistance. Mental well-being, especially in marginalised communities, is an area of deep concern for me. Through the charity, I do not only support those undergoing depression in the BAME community but also shed light on significant issues such as domestic violence, equipping individuals with the knowledge and resources to overcome these challenges. 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, I worked tirelessly to support young people and empower those in an abusive environment to get much-needed help. I took proactive measures, understanding the unique vulnerabilities faced by the community. From wellbeing sessions to befriending services, the objective was clear - no one should feel alone, isolated, or helpless. But my involvement doesn't stop at the boundaries of my charity organisation. I am the Neighbourhood organiser for Rochdale Borough for Manchester International Festival 2021 and 2023. Also, I am an active participant and member of various organisations, including the Independent Advisory (IAG) GMP-Rochdale, Mama's Health and Poverty Partnership, Greater Manchester VCSE Leadership Group, African Women in Leadership Organisation (AWLO), and Greater Manchester Citizens. Each of these platforms represents another avenue for me to advocate, contribute, and effect change. 

One of my most cherished endeavours is my involvement in the Black History Movement. It's not just about celebrating the past; it's about crafting a future where young black individuals can look back and feel proud, knowing their history is rich, their contributions invaluable, and their potential limitless. In essence, I reflect my community - its challenges, its victories, its aspirations. Every day, I strive to uplift those around me, to bring light to issues often left in the shadows, and to ensure that every individual, irrespective of their race or background, has an equal opportunity to thrive.

My inspiration, the change I would like to see in Rochdale, and a word for the black people in Greater Manchester

Michelle Obama inspires me as a black woman with her grace, intelligence and advocacy. Her trailblazing presence shows the strength, resilience, and excellence inhibited in every woman, and I strongly believe that this self-awareness has made me face life's challenges with a positive attitude. In Rochdale, I would like to see better social cohesion within the community, which will make being vulnerable with ourselves possible, to access thoughtful and functional support from the community and individuals. The word of advice for my fellow black people in Greater Manchester is “let love lead”. 

Nicky T. Iginla
CEO - Caring and Sharing Rochdale

Join us as we mark Black History Month 2023 by celebrating the amazing achievements of just a few of the wonderful Black women who are members of Action Together.

Black History Month has been celebrated every year for over thirty years, and is an annual commemoration of history, achievements and contribution of Black people (those with African and Caribbean heritage) in the UK.

The theme for this year's Black History Month is 'Saluting our Sisters' and, throughout the month, we are delighted to be bringing you the personal stories of some fabulous women who are championing their organisations and achieving brilliant things in their communities every day. These women are making outstanding contributions, challenging the systems and paving the way for change. We're here to acknowledge them, salute them and amplify their voices.

Each week we'll be speaking to one of our Action Together Members and sharing their inspirational, passionate, and insightful story.

First up, we spoke with Patrice Johnson from Tameside-based Finding My Way CIC. Her organisation is on a mission to engage with prison leavers, like Patrice herself, by providing a helping hand and believes everyone deserves a second chance. They provide unparalleled resources, real world skills and values to help and support prison leavers of all genders to pursue healthy, fulfilling and productive lives once back in society.

Here's our interview with Patrice...

In response to the 'theme 'Women’s Empowerment' in sixty words or less, can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I'm self-confident, productive, optimistic, a go-getter, a fear-tackler, caring, unafraid to stand up for what one believes in, proud, unbothered by what others say or think, and true to one's self that respects people from all backgrounds, religions, race and gender. 

What have you done for your community which you would like people to know about?

It’s a new Community Interest Company. Learn about about our mission and the services we offer: www.findingmywaycic.org

What does Black History Month mean to you?

To uplift and support the achievements of Black and minority women, and to build understanding and awareness of the contributions of Black women to the world. 

For black history month this year, the theme is ‘Saluting our Sisters' OR 'Matriarchs of Movements' which aims to highlight the crucial role that black women have played in shaping history, inspiring change, and building communities. Can you tell us about a black woman who has served as inspiration in your life?

Oprah Winfrey is considered a role model to many individuals because of her tough childhood, wonderful charity work, her schools, and the true relationships with her fans. Oprah stands out among many people on her ability to feel others' pain and help those people get through their troubling times.

Viola Davis is a child who grew up in abject poverty, this cause is close to Davis' heart. She has also been active in giving back to Central Falls, Rhode Island, the community where she grew up and to which she contributes her passion for acting. 

What change would you like to see in Tameside that would benefit the Black community?

More businesses or community interest companies ran by black women, men or mixed raced. 

And finally, what would you say to black people in Greater Manchester to inspire them to make a difference in the community or wider?

There is always light. If only we're brave enough to see it. If only we're brave enough to be it.

Patrice Johnson,
Founder - Finding My Way CIC

Social Prescribing recognises that health is not just about treating symptoms, but also about improving a person's overall quality of life - considering their physical, mental, and social needs. It empowers individuals to take an active role in their own health and wellbeing by providing them with the connections and resources in their community to help them achieve their goals.

Results that are making a difference

Throughout the month of July, our Social Prescribing Team in Tameside have facilitated an amazing 415 client connections to 159 different opportunities. It's really great to hear the wonderful client feedback which is regularly coming back to us about the impact it is having on people's lives. Below are just a few of the inspiring stories we've received in recent weeks.

Jackie's Story - “Don't give up at the first hurdle” 
Jackie's husband is a client of our SP Officer for Denton, Audenshaw and Droylsden, Sue Pomfret. Jackie's husband suffered a brain injury and engaged with Social Prescribing to 'get back on track'. Initially Jackie's husband was reluctant to become involved in the activities and make the connections we linked him to but, she says, he persevered and he really enjoyed it!

He was connected with a bowling session at Victoria Park, Denton. On the first week he went with his wife, the second a friend took him and by the third week the he went independently via Ring ‘n’ Ride (another service that Sue had connected him with. 

Jackie told us "The bowling thing has been brilliant for him. Last week he came back joyous. Basically, if I can pass on any advice it's ‘don’t give up at the first hurdle’.

Nevia's Story - “I lost my partner and felt alone, but Liz made me feel better!” 
Nevia was referred into Social Prescribing by her GP in March 2023 as she was feeling isolated, lonely, and felt disconnected from the community following her 12-month cancer care review.  Nevia’s fiancé had sadly passed away and, in addition, she had experienced physical health problems causing her to become more isolated. 

Nevia explained to our SP Officer, Liz, that she felt that she was ready to get back out into the community and enjoy more activities. She said was a very creative person and was skilled in cake decorating. Nevia was a Christian and her religion and the church community were very important to her. Liz worked with Nevia to identify options for activities to help her achieve her goals, of attending groups to help with her isolation, loneliness and disconnect. Nevia chose to attend Phantasmagoria and drumming classes and has progressed to attending many more sessions on her own. Nevia was also referred to Lisa, our Volunteer Officer in Tameside after she commented that she'd like to get involved in volunteering again and has now chosen to volunteer with the Women’s Centre.

Since working with Liz, Nevia noticed an improvement in her wellbeing and commented that she is feeling better “Until I lost my partner I felt alone, but Liz made me feel better. It was good to get to find out about what is happening and to meet people.  

Yasmin's Story - “Thanks so much. Without your help, I would not have got the advice which I have been struggling to get for months.” 
Yasmin, a 37-year-old new mum was referred to Social Prescribing by her medical professional, Yasmin’s referral noted that she had ‘problems coping’. Yasmin was assigned to our SP Officer Jyoti, who took the time to listen to Yasmin about the challenges she had been experiencing. Alongside adjusting to being a Mum, Yasmin was also adjusting to living in the UK, having recently moved from Romania.

Yasmin confided that she had felt let down with other healthcare professionals, who hadn’t supported her when she had sought advice on where to go for diet and health advice for her baby. Jyoti explained to Yasmin about Healthwatch Tameside. Yasmin appreciated the information and consented to a referral being made to the Healthwatch team. Alongside this, Yasmin also wanted to focus on meeting other parents in her local area. Jyoti provided details of the nearest Baby Clinic and local parenting groups.

Since being referred to Social Prescribing and, additionally, being connected to Healthwatch Tameside Yasmin has received contact from a Paediatric Dietician, connecting her with the support she had been seeking for months. Yasmin commented to Jyoti “I feel very supported and more confident in what I need to do for my daughter and her diet.” 

Yasmin's 'Wellbeing Scores' (questions we ask at the start and end of a person’s time with the Social Prescribing Team to see if a person’s wellbeing has improved) highlighted that she was feeling happier, more worthwhile, and more satisfied with her life since working with Jyoti. At the start, Yasmin scored herself as '10 - feeling very anxious' but at the point of closing she scored herself as '0 - not anxious at all'!

What is Social Prescribing?

In short, Social Prescribing helps people to make new connections in their community. 

Our Tameside Social Prescribing Team work with people to help them make new connections in their community. We listen to people to find out what's important to them, what changes they would like to make in their lives, and help identify the best ways to achieve those changes. Our Team connect people to what’s available in their local community, including groups, activities, and appropriate services that they're able to easily access and attend independently.

Our aim is to encourage the people we work with to improve and manage their own wellbeing and we work together with people on a 1-2-1 basis, creating goals to get that person to where they want to be.

We are not support workers, our work is non-medical and non-urgent. We work with people that are motivated and ready to engage with us to make positive changes. Social Prescribing is free and we work with people over the telephone, in community spaces, or by visiting them in their homes.

At Action Together we are committed to supporting and empowering our communities. We secure investment that supports local action, removing barriers and helping to get funding to where it is needed most. We believe that investment is at the heart of building fairer, stronger communities. By securing funding for community projects, we can create more opportunities for people to thrive and improve social outcomes.

Collectively we have the power to make things better, addressing the impacts and root causes of poverty and inequalities. Our vision of enabling fair and much needed investment is evident across all our localities in Oldham, Rochdale and Tameside, with hundreds of voluntary and community groups and organisations benefitting each year.

A successful first quarter of investment for 2023

Some of our most thriving funding opportunities are our community-focused funds and we are delighted to report just how successful our Rochdale Communities Fund has been so far this year.

During the first quarter of 2023 our Rochdale Communities Fund Micro Grants have provided funding for 19 unique community projects that are really making a difference to the people of Rochdale Borough. This allocated investment totalled more than £19,000 and has enabled our member organisations to deliver a fantastically diverse range of projects and activities.

From wellbeing and mental health sessions to academic support and food parcels we have been inspired by the many amazing things the micro grants have funded. Here are just a few examples;

Become United
Become United is a charity, led by Black Minority Ethnic (BME) people. They used their grant to deliver a series of 'BAME Women's Wellbeing Sessions' focused on different arts and crafts activities and incorporating various wellbeing practices.

Kirkholt Community Church
Kirkholt Community Church opened their building as a Warm Welcome Space to reduce the effects of social isolation, build friendships and boost mental health and wellbeing. They offer free breakfasts each Tuesday morning and have also have just started up a Men’s Space which runs at the same time as their ‘Welcome Space’ each Tuesday morning from 9am-11:30am with darts, table tennis, cards, dominoes and other games.

Lamet Habayeb Association
Lamet Habayeb Association delivered informal mental health and wellbeing sessions to women from their community to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and the need to seek professional advice. The sessions were needed because of the stigma associated around the issue of mental health in Arabic culture, where women find it difficult to discuss, even with close relatives.

Rochdale Dawah Centre
Rochdale Dawah Centre set up a Homework Club, in partnership with local schools and community groups in Rochdale, for BAME Teens, which aims to provide additional academic support to students from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds who are preparing for their exams.

Smallbridge Pantry
Smallbridge Pantry is a food members club, established in 2007 to tackle food poverty, where local people can buy food items at subsidised cost. Their grant has enabled them to purchase and maintain the levels of produce available to their community.

Action Together Grants and Membership Administrator Hayley Tomlinson said:

"I'm so thrilled that this round of funding from 2023 Quarter 1 has benefitted so many wonderful causes. It's great to know that the work we do to secure this investment is directly improving quality of the life for members of our Rochdale community."

More about our Rochdale Communities Fund

Thanks to funding from Rochdale Borough Council Public Health team, Action Together offers micro grants of up to £1,000 to help the voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise sector to support individuals, families and communities in the Rochdale Borough.

As there are limited funds, applications from micro and small groups for these micro grants are prioritised.

To be able to apply, the project must fall within one or more of the following priorities:

Challenging poverty and driving equality 

• Support people and communities to get back on their feet and take more control over their lives i.e. practical support, advice or peer support 
• Reduce inequalities and help more people reach their potential 
• Strengthen community voice and action on the things that matter most to them 

Promoting health and wellbeing  

• Enabling people and communities to support their social, mental and physical wellbeing  
• Challenging health inequalities through working with marginalised groups whose needs are not being met by existing services 
• Build strong relationships in and across communities 

Applications for Rochdale Communities Fund Micro Grants

After a temporary period of paused applications, we are delighted to announce that this Fund will re-open on Monday 3 July 2023.

Who can apply 

Applications are welcomed from voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) groups locally rooted or actively working in the borough of Rochdale; and have a turnover of less than £100,000 are a member of Action Together CIO (membership of Action Together is free, register here: www.actiontogether.org.uk/become-member) and are formally constituted. If groups are still working towards their constitution, Action Together can offer a micro grant of up to £500.

Make your application for 2023 Quarter 2

Grants of up to £1,000 are available.

For more details, guidance notes and an application form, please visit our website: www.actiontogether.org.uk/rochdale-communities-fund-%E2%80%93-micro-grants-%C2%A31000

Should you need more information, please call: Hayley Tomlinson on 0161 339 2345 or email: hayley.tomlinson@actiontogether.org.uk

As part of this years’ Volunteers’ Week celebrations, we launched our ever popular Action Together Volunteer Celebration Fund for 2023. 

The fund invites VCFSE groups from Oldham, Rochdale and Tameside to apply for a grant of up to £500 to host an event or activity to celebrate and say thanks to their volunteers. It really is the perfect opportunity for your organisation to honour every one of your volunteers, celebrate their achievements and their fantastic contributions that make a difference within our communities.

We’re sure you have heaps of wonderful ideas and plans already but if you needed any inspiration, just take a look at these amazing activities that our members were able to deliver using grants from our Volunteer Celebration Fund during 2022.

Cycling Imaam Club

The Oldham-based Cycling Imaam Club encourages members of the local community to be healthy by cycling and hiking and promotes good physical and mental health to its members. 

In September 2022 they hosted a ‘Chaii and Chat’ Volunteer Recognition Evening which was a huge success, with their volunteers saying they were delighted that their efforts had been appreciated and noticed.

Leader, Atiq Rahman, said,

“The event increased our bond and also gave us the motivation to continue with our aims. The winter season is a challenging period for communities to stay active. We hope to motivate and inspire people to continue to stay fit.”

The Oldham Band Lees

The Oldham Band Lees used their grant to celebrate all their volunteers by presenting them with a cup and a certificate, thanking them for their support during their impressive journey to The National Finals at The Royal Albert Hall in 2022.

Outta Skool

Outta Skool is a community organisation based in Oldham which has been providing sports and health programmes for adults and children for more than 10 years.

Thanking their volunteers in December 2022 the group held, what they described as, their ‘biggest annual celebration yet’. We caught up with Founder, Moinul Islam, and he told us;

“We usually celebrate just 2-3 volunteers each year but with this funding we were able to dedicate a segment of our Awards Evening to the importance of volunteers and award every single volunteer, regardless of how much contribution they made. The funding put a smile on 18 people’s faces and we have no doubt that they will continue to volunteer. Since the event we have had more young people and adults approach us for volunteering opportunities.

This project highlighted the important roles that volunteers play within our organisation. By the end of the event the audience of 220 people understood exactly how we manage to offer our services for free, or a nominal fee. We were able to make every single volunteer feel special.”

Fatima Women’s Association

Back in September 2022 and partly thanks to the grant they received from our Volunteer Celebration Fund, Fatima Women’s Association honoured their volunteers with a Celebration Meal at a local restaurant.

During the evening, they conducted a presentation and talked about the remarkable success of Fatima Women’s Association for over 31 years, sharing past and present stories. Twenty-four volunteers benefitted from the celebrations and shared their feedback with us. Here are just a few of the volunteer comments…

“Our celebration events are always very special. FWA values every individual.”

“In our centre we understand the value of living in a multi-cultural, diverse society where every individual is valued and respected.”
 

Dr Kershaw’s Hospice

Action Together member Dr Kershaw’s Hospice used their grant to hold a wonderful Volunteer Celebration Evening in December 2022 at North Chadderton Bowling and Social Club.

Their volunteers had a great time and commented;

“The Christmas volunteer social was so thoughtful and very much appreciated. The volunteers support such a range of areas at Dr Kershaw’s and this was my first opportunity to meet with other volunteers - it was amazing to see so many people having such a lovely time. Everyone I met and had opportunity to talk with thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated the event. Thanks to Leanne and Nicky for the wonderful organisation and looking after the volunteer team so well.”

Reel CIC

Reel CIC (REAL EDUCATION EMPOWERING LIVES) hosted a Volunteer’s Tea Party to thank and celebrate their volunteers and received glowing feedback which confirmed their event had been hugely successful, not only in honouring their contributions but making them feel valued and giving them the chance to meet other volunteers and share experiences.

“A couple of hours just dedicated to recognising the work that we do was lovely. The food was delicious but then to be handed a bag of gifts was surprising and greatly received! I’m very proud to be part of the team.”
 

Volunteer Celebration Fund 2023 Information

For more information on this years’ Volunteer Celebration Fund see our website: www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer-celebration-fund-2023-action-together or contact our Funding Team on: 0161 339 2345 or email: funding@actiontogether.org.uk

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 31 July 2023. However, applications to this fund may be closed before that date if all available funds have been allocated. Any funds awarded must be spent by 31 December 2023.

Action Together Ambassador, Ron Smith

Ron began volunteering with Action Together during the coronavirus pandemic in May 2021, saying “I want to just help out and have something to do”.

Ron was willing to get involved to help the community get vaccinated and decided to help out at local Vaccination Clinics across Oldham as a Vaccination Guidance and Support Volunteer.

Ron was that friendly face when people dropped in for their vaccines. He kept the queue in order, checked people were eligible for a vaccination and referred any medical queries to the Clinical Team. Ron volunteered very closely with the Clinical Team, always checking for procedure changes, how many vaccines they could give that day and always followed the Government guidance at all times.  

He was always there to reassure people and share his experience and stories. This helped people feel more comfortable and welcome at the clinic. One member of the public said, “You are all true heroes, thank you!”

During his time with Action Together Ron has now been promoted to Volunteer Ambassador. He chose to take on more responsibility and had gone on to manage the volunteers, including welcoming and training new volunteers.

If you are considering volunteering Ron says;

"Give it a go! You are always supported and you're never left on your own. Through volunteering I’ve enjoyed meeting new people, getting out and about and learning more about Coronavirus and the procedures around it.”

Since volunteering Ron is more aware of what is available to do in his local community. He recently volunteered at a local fun day to promote the benefits of volunteering.

Ron has now joined the team at a local Volunteer Hub. He is there to share his knowledge and skills within the local community of Oldham. Why not visit to speak to Ron and the team about volunteering opportunities available to you?

Community Response Volunteer, Helen Hopkins

Helen Hopkins was a Community Response Volunteer (CRV) for Action Together. A Community Response Volunteer supports the local community when facing crisis or in need of emergency support.

"I volunteered with the purpose of gaining work experience. I was hungry to be out of the house and doing something in my community. The Food Bank and the volunteers had to cope with me whilst I was studying through exams and assessments. They helped me to keep calm prior to an exam or an assessment, as I find exams and assessments that are timed a little stressful. Volunteering helped to distract me from my studies which, with doing a Medical Administration Diploma, was at times stressful. One of the volunteers, who was a teacher, gave me tasks I could practice in preparation for a proofreading task I had to do as part of one of the assessments. The other volunteers at the Food Bank also helped me through the challenges I was facing, during the pandemic and especially throughout the third lockdown. It was wonderful to be able to help people and be out of the house. It was a good feeling to be described as a Social Care Worker when it felt like all I was doing was doing was packing bags of food for people in need."

"Volunteering with Action Together at the Vaccination Clinics, especially at the OBA Vaccination Clinic, second-dose Pfizer in April, has indirectly got me a job. It enabled me to be accepted at the interview stage for the NHS work-based academy, that was in partnership with The Manchester College. I know for the intake of the NHS work based academy that I was part of over 100 who attended interview. Out of the 100 who were accepted and had passed the Maths and English assessments, 27-28 people got to the stage of doing the Health and Social Care course which was classroom based and the qualification attached to the NHS work based academy programme, which was also in preparation for the work placement. At interview I was able to give real exapmles from my time at the Vaccination Clinic, last April. This led to the pre-employment coordinator at MFT Manchester Foundation Trust, allocating me a work placement in the Eye Hospital of Manchester Royal Infirmary. After just 20 days of placement at the Eye Hospital they decided they liked me and are willing to train me up more, but this time on the bank and in a paid capacity."

"My desire is that people should view volunteering, especially those that are not working, to see volunteering as part of looking for work. Volunteering is more than work preparation. It gives people examples that they can use in application forms and most importantly at interview. Just job searching and looking for work does not give those examples. The value of volunteering is very much and sadly underrated. Every hour doing volunteering will, for that alone, have been worthwhile! Thank you for the experiences.

Administration and Event Volunteer, Sarinah Khaliq

Sarinah took on a volunteer role, volunteering from home to support Action Together with their administration tasks during hybrid working. 

"I volunteered with the purpose of gaining work experience and helping Action Together with their administration tasks. I was able to step forward and do my bit. I was amazed about all the different aspects of a volunteer support officer’s job role. I felt volunteering would be good to gain experience, confidence and self esteem. I started helping out by entering details on CiviCRM and then moved onto researching Action Together website so that I could pass on the knowledge I had gained to my fellow sixth formers and the wider community. The impact the Volunteer Centre makes to people’s lives is truly inspirational. It’s so meaningful and they do change people’s lives."

"My experience of being a volunteer with Action Together has been a positive one. It has provided me with some structure, kept my administration skills up to date and allowed me to maintain connections with people. The thought that I am hopefully giving back and being useful in a small way. I am truly impressed with how inclusive the team is through engaging with volunteers, supporting them and promoting volunteer opportunities.

Currently I am an Event Volunteer and am called upon when the Oldham Volunteer Centre at Action Together takes part in open days, fun days, presentations and general outreach in the community. This works perfect around my current sixth form priorities and I can be flexible with the event volunteering.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to volunteer."

Thursday 9 March is Social Prescribing Day, an annual celebration of Social Prescribing, recognising link workers, local community groups and regional and national organisations which support people’s health and wellbeing.

Action Together hosts Social Prescribing services in Oldham and Tameside. We support residents in both boroughs to improve their health and wellbeing by connecting them with community activities, voluntary groups, and support services. Sally* was referred to our service because of health challenges linked to her housing situation. This is her story.

Sally is 65 years old and lived alone. She was referred to Social Prescribing by her Housing Officer as she was feeling very lonely and isolated. She was suffering with low mood and suicidal thoughts, and had been put in touch with Social Prescribing for social activities in Oldham.

Sally’s only daughter lived in Rossendale, and she wanted to move closer to be nearer to her family. However, she had been told she didn’t have a housing need and would be on the waiting list for approximately five years.

Social Prescribing Link Workers work with people to find out more about their challenges, interests and what they want to achieve. They offer practical, social and emotional support to people, listening to their needs before connecting them with local community and voluntary groups offering a range of activities and services.

 A Social Prescribing Link Worker chatted with Sally to find out more about her. Sally said she was feeling really low and felt like there was no solution for her. Although she had been referred for social activities, through discussion with her Link Worker Sally shared that what really mattered to her was to be near her daughter. Sally also shared that her dog had passed away six weeks earlier, and she felt like she couldn’t face day-to-day life anymore on her own.

Despite the circumstances being different to the original referral, her Link Worker adapted to what Sally needed and helped Sally address the root cause of her health challenges.

The Link Worker agreed a course of action with Sally, and spoke with her housing provider to find out if they had any vacant properties in the Rossendale area.

Sally and the provider found accommodation in Rossendale and the Link Worker supported Sally to apply for property. The application was successful, and the Link Worker then helped Sally find a removal company.

Within a few months Sally had moved into her new property near to her daughter. The new accommodation also has on-site social activities - the original prompt for the Social Prescribing referral - through which Sally made new friends.

Sally said,

"You saved my life! When I was told it would be five years on the waiting list to move near my daughter I had given up.

"I cant thank you enough, you don’t know how much you have helped me. I’ve already met my new neighbour who is lovely! 

"My new property is less than a mile from my daughter and it's changed my life and given me a reason to live.

"It’s the best thing that has happened to me and I would never look back - thank you."

There are a number of ways to access Social Prescribing in Oldham:

• Visit https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/oldham-social-prescribing
• Phone: 0161 339 2345, then Option 1 (Monday - Friday, 9am - 4pm)
• Email: gmicb-old.socialprescribing@nhs.net
• Complete a self-referral form: https://sites.elementalsoftware.co.uk/app/WebObjects/SR.woa/cms/oldham_r...
• Speak to your GP

*Name changed

Social Prescribing connects people to opportunities and support in the local community. We work with our clients on a 1-2-1 basis for a period up to 24-weeks, and we provide people with time and space to work on ‘what matters to me’.

The people who use the Social Prescribing service often face various challenges, and our Social Prescribing teams aim to help people address these challenges to improve their health and wellbeing. This is Audrey's story.

Audrey was referred into Social Prescribing for bereavement support, and for the isolation and loneliness she was experiencing. Audrey was assigned to Becky, one of our Tameside Social Prescribing Officers.

In a telephone call Audrey and Becky discussed accessing social groups, but Audrey declined due to her health conditions. She told Becky that she has regular calls from family and neighbours, and she was very grateful about staying connected with the people she was closest to.

Becky spent time speaking to and getting to know Audrey, who revealed that her main challenges were transport and finances. Audrey was unable to use public transport and relied on taxis to visit her family, but she was struggling to manage the cost. In a telephone call Becky asked Audrey what matters to her and what she felt would help her wellbeing. Audrey replied, "I know that just being able to see my family will improve my wellbeing". However, Audrey had recently had to cut down on visiting her family due to the cost of transport, and had to make the choice to spend money on food and bills instead.

Audrey had lots of support from her granddaughter, but her granddaughter is also a carer for her mum, and Audrey shared that she didn't want to be a burden to her family.

Our approach to Social Prescribing is to work with people on 'what matters to me', and Becky embodied this principle while working with Audrey.

After assessing the importance of Audrey staying connected to her family, and the barrier to doing this in the cost of transport, Becky connected Audrey to Transport for Greater Manchester’s taxi voucher scheme. She also put Audrey in touch with Action Together’s Miles of Smiles community transport service, which helps people who have difficulty using public transport to attend health appointments. The scheme is unique in Tameside as it provides a door-to-door service, ensuring that passengers arrive on time with minimum difficulty.

Becky sourced information on support available in Audrey’s community that would help to reduce the cost of travel, allowing Audrey to see her family more, which meant so much to Audrey. Audrey thanked Becky and shared this about her Social Prescribing experience:

"You have honestly been so helpful! This is going to help me so much and I know I’ll feel better if I get to see my family and not have to worry about the cost of transport."

Audrey only needed one telephone appointment with Becky, but following this single appointment was connected to Transport for Greater Manchester and Miles of Smiles. Becky also provided the information to Audrey in a letter with further detail on the two schemes, alongside a variety of social activities and Becky’s contact details should Audrey wish to receive additional information in the future.

Action Together deliver free Social Prescribing services in Oldham and Tameside. From a one-off appointment to a 24-week programme of support, our teams aim to help people to improve their health and wellbeing by focusing on 'what matters to me'. Find out more:

Oldham Social Prescribing

Web: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/oldham-social-prescribing

Phone: 0161 339 2345, then Option 1 (Monday - Friday, 9am - 4pm)

Email: oldccg.socialprescribing@nhs.net

Craig was an Emergency Response Volunteer, or ERV, in Oldham. An Emergency Response Volunteer supports the local community when facing crisis or in need of emergency support.

Craig volunteered each Sunday at the European Islamic Centre as a Vaccination Volunteer. He spoke to us about his experiences volunteering:

"Before the pandemic I had never heard of Action Together or ever thought of becoming a volunteer. In the pandemic I needed to get out of the house to help with my mental health and give something back to the community. The NHS was struggling which spurred me on to volunteer. As long as I was following all the Government Covid-19 guidelines I would be fine. I would say Covid-19 had a positive impact in my volunteer journey as it empowered me to become a volunteer.

"My duties were supervising the front desk, making sure people had sanitised their hands and replaced their face masks.

"Volunteering has given my self esteem a boost and built my confidence. A member of the public, during my shift, told me I was "a hidden hero" for using my own time to give back to the Oldham community. I am proud and happy that I was able to make a positive contribution during a very tough time.

"As a result of volunteering I have developed new interests, as I now enjoy meeting new people and assisting them. I would say to anyone who has got time on their hands to stay positive and give it a go. The worst that can happen is that you don’t like it, but there are always opportunities to move onto other volunteer roles through the Volunteering team at Action Together. It was a brilliant experience. I was very well looked after, in touch with very friendly staff and never felt pressured. Go on, give volunteering a go!"

Find volunteering roles near you on our online Volunteer Directory.

At Action Together we support voluntary organisations, community groups, and local services in recruiting and retaining volunteers. We spoke to Alison Pywell, Volunteer Coordinator for Oldham Children's Centres, to find out more about what volunteering with them involves. Find opportunities for Oldham Children's Centres here on our website.

“We have a variety of volunteering opportunities available across all 16 of our Children Centres, such as Receptionist, Stay and Play, Right Start and School Nursing Service, Oral Health, Healthy Walks / Pram Walks, Community events volunteer, and so on.

"Volunteers play an integral part of the service and are involved in a wide range of important and rewarding roles. There is no better feeling than to watch a volunteer gain confidence, self-esteem, learn new skills, increase their personal development or see a volunteer move on to paid employment or back into education.

"Our experience with the Volunteering team at Action Together has been excellent. They are always on hand to support or answer questions if needed, and can’t be more helpful to the organisations and individuals they support. They're 100% professional, a friendly and very knowledgeable organisation and staff.

"Volunteers are a great asset to our teams and enhance the fantastic work the practitioners are delivering. We regularly reflect and evaluate the role of a volunteer and will change to meet the needs of the volunteer / service if required.

“Volunteering - do it, it can change your life!”

Of their recent volunteers, 18 have gone into employment and five have secured places at university, including four volunteers who built on their experience to study nursing and midwifery.

There are a number of roles available with Right Start, School Nursing Service and Oldham Children’s Centres:

• Welcoming parents, children and visitors to the centre.
• Answering phone, making calls, responding sensitively and professionally to enquires and providing information, e.g. times of activities, such as groups and baby weigh clinics.
• Undertaking general office tasks e.g. Talk To Us Forms.
• Collect red health books and placing in time order to support the Health Visitors to run their clinics smoothly.
• Data inputting (dependant on role).
• Assisting in creating leaflets/posters and updating display boards.
• Assisting the team in the planning, preparation and delivery of Right Start interventions and universal groups. (Babbling Babies, Stay & Play and Baby Weigh & Play).
• Actively encouraging parents/carers to participate in play activities with their children.
• Our experience with the volunteer centre based at Action Together, Oldham has been excellent, always on hand to support or answer questions if needed, can’t be more helpful to the organisations / individuals they support.  100% professional, friendly and very knowledgeable organisation and staff.
• Assisting the team to evaluate sessions.
• Building positive relationships with families.
• Assisting parents to attend Right Start services and other relevant appointments.
• Assist volunteer coordinator in attending community events across Oldham.
• Assisting the Right Start team in the completion of questionnaires with families/clients.
• Face to face contact with families/clients to discuss change to services and collect and record feedback.
• Making phone calls/sending text messages to families/clients about proposed changes to services and record feedback.
• Support the SEND Team to contact families who have accessed their service.
• Assisting the School Nursing team in the planning, preparation and delivery of school based activities such as the National Child Measurement Programme or school based immunisation programme.
• Assist the School Nursing team with administrative duties including: preparing NCMP packs and photocopying.

Visit Action Together's Volunteering page to find local volunteering roles that match your interest, skills, or area you'd like to develop.

We've recently received a number of enquiries from people interested in setting up a Community Interest Company, or CIC. There are lots of benefits to setting up as a CIC, as well as some challenges to think through.

We've written a guide to CICs below, and we've also recorded this video discussion between an experienced CIC and an organisation thinking of becoming a CIC, which has lots of great insights and advice. 

For advice on the best structure for your organisation, contact Action Together's Development team on 0161 339 2345 or development@actiontogether.org.uk

What is a CIC?

A CIC is a special type of limited company which exists to benefit the community rather than private shareholders.

How is a CIC different from a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO)?

A CIC is a profit-making organisation that uses its profits for public good. That means a CIC is registered with Companies House rather than the Charity Commission. A CIC is taxed like a normal company, whereas a CIO can benefit from a wide range of charity tax concessions.

You can read a factsheet here for more information on the difference between the two.

What are the advantages of setting up a CIC?

• Quick process: online applications can be processed in less than a week
• Cost effective: currently costs £27 to register online
• Simple registration: Registration only requires submission of Articles of Association and one other form: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/community-interest-companies-...
• Directors: A CIC can have paid Directors, whereas charitable organisations are run by unpaid trustees

What are the disadvantages of setting up a CIC?

• Funding: Currently, there are fewer grant funding opportunities for CICs than for registered charities. However, the National Lottery Reaching Communities fund is available to CICs

How do I set up a CIC?

Step by step guidance including a webinar and example documents can be found on the Office of the Regulator of CICs website.

Visit our YouTube page to watch a conversation between Marcus Abraham, who wanted to find out more about the pros and cons of setting up a CIC, and Dani Gaines, who runs a CIC.

Contact us to discuss what the right structure is for you! Call 0161 339 2345 or email development@actiontogether.org.uk

A Community Response Volunteer supports the local community when facing crisis or in need of emergency support. Since the beginning of the Covid pandemic Community Response Volunteers have performed a variety of roles, including knocking on doors to check on residents, volunteering at food banks, and supporting the test and trace and vaccination programmes. We are currently looking for Vaccination Guidance and Support Volunteers.

Helen is a Community Response Volunteer in Oldham. She told us about her experience as a volunteer, and how this experience led to an NHS job role.

"I volunteered with the purpose of gaining work experience. I was hungry to be out of the house and doing something in my community. The food bank and the volunteers had to cope with me whilst I was studying through exams and assessments! They helped me to keep calm prior to an exam or an assessment, as I find timed exams and assessments a little stressful. Volunteering helped me to be distracted from my studies, which with doing the medical administration diploma, was at times stressful.

"One of the volunteers, who was a teacher, gave me tasks I could practice in preparation for a proofreading task I had to do as part of one of the assessments. The other volunteers at the food bank also helped me through the challenges I was facing during the pandemic, and especially during the third lockdown. It was wonderful to be able to help people and be out of the house. It was a good feeling to be described as a social care worker, when all I was doing was packing bags of food for people in need. 

"The volunteering with Action Together at the vaccination clinics, especially at the OBA Vaccination clinic in April, has indirectly got me a job. It helped me to be accepted at the interview stage for the NHS work-based academy, in partnership with the Manchester College. I used an example from the vaccination clinic in my interview, and this led to the pre-employment coordinator at Manchester Foundation Trust placing me in the Eye Hospital of the Manchester Royal Infirmary for my work placement. After 20 days of work placement the Eye Hospital decided they liked me and are willing to train me up more, but this time on the bank and in a paid capacity. At the time of writing I have done two days of paid work.

"Thank you for the experiences."

From Action Together, thank you Helen and all our Community Response Volunteers for your time, effort and energy in supporting the community response to the pandemic.

Find community response and other volunteering roles on our volunteering page.

It's Student Volunteering Week! #SVW2022 

Volunteering can be a great way to gain employability skills, meet people, and make a positive difference in communities. Roles are often flexible and can fit around your studies. There are also regular roles for people who'd like to volunteer somewhere longer term, and micro or one-off volunteering opportunities if you're short on time.

Action Together is the recognised volunteer centre for Oldham, Rochdale and Tameside boroughs of Greater Manchester. We connect people who want to volunteer with organisations looking for volunteers. Students in Manchester can register to volunteer with us and gain experience working in a nearby borough.

We've picked out some current volunteering roles below to showcase the opportunities out there for students, but there are lots more roles available.

You can use our volunteering portal to search for roles near you or linked to your areas of interest: https://actiontogether.org.uk/volunteering

TAMESIDE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

To view all of Tameside’s volunteer opportunities visit https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteering?geographical_area_944%5B%...

Corrie Primary School
Volunteer Gardeners

Corrie Primary school is looking to develop and transform a large section of their outdoor area into a scientific area so that the children can learn more about the natural world. For example, a sensory garden and pond.

Volunteers are needed to support with the maintenance of the school’s grounds. Tasks will include weeding, mowing the paths, planting seeds, bulbs and watering flowers.

There will also be an opportunity to work with the children whilst they get involved in some gardening, growing and wildlife related activities

The maintenance of the grounds will also take place over the school holidays when there are no staff in to look after the plants and local wildlife.

For more information: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer/opportunity/128717

Bee-Amazed Musical Theatre Volunteer
Bee-Amazed Musical Theatre Group

Bee-Amazed is a Musical Theatre Group. They teach singing, dancing and drama to children aged 3-18 years. Each year they do a small Halloween and Christmas show plus a big yearly show at Hyde Festival Theatre. Volunteers will have an interest in Musical Theatre and preferably some experience and skills in the area. They may be asked to help individuals who may be struggling learning with script work, their lines. They may also be asked to help and encourage children who find it hard to concentrate, supporting them to keep focused. They may also be asked to stand in for people who are missing so that the script work can carry on with absent children.
Volunteers will be needed at any of the following venues and times:

• Monday 4pm - 6pm at Heyrod Village Hall
• Wednesday 4pm -7pm at Ridge Hill Baptist Church
• Thursday 4.30pm - 8pm at Dukinfield Baptist Church

For more information: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer/opportunity/126924

Stalybridge Celtic Junior Football Club

Coach
Join our team of volunteer coaches. Groups go from reception age up to year 6. Work alongside experienced coaches and progress to complete your FA level 1 award and eventually take your own group, funding will be available through the network to achieve the level one qualification.

Saturday mornings
For more information: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer/opportunity/117754

Stalybridge Celtic Junior Football Club

Videographer

We would like someone with the appropriate skills to film and edit a series of video shorts. Interviewing people at the club, parents/carers of players, and players about what Stalybridge Celtic Juniors means to them.
For more information: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer/opportunity/117755

Stalybridge Celtic Junior Football Club

Tuck Shop Assistant

The Soccer School has a thriving tuck shop selling, toast, hot drinks, snacks and sweets. We need tuck shop assistants to work in a small team serving children and adults.
For more information: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer/opportunity/117753

Pack Assistant (Cub Scouts)
2nd Dukinfield Scouts

Cubs start small but think big, making the very most of what they have and seeking out adventures wherever they go. Throughout their journey, you’ll help them work towards a range of skill-boosting badges and awards. From athletics and astronomy to photography and pioneering, there’s something for everyone to get stuck into.
Tasks the volunteer will be required to do:

• Running games and activities as part of weekly section meetings and other section events.
• Assisting young people to achieve badges and awards.
• Assisting with residential experiences for the section.
• Assisting the section with taking part in a varied, exciting, and safe programme of activities.
• For more information: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer/opportunity/126920

PCrefurb

Digital Champion - The Digital Wellbeing Project

The charity PCrefurb are looking for volunteers to assist in the delivery of a major new digital literacy project supporting community members to get online and grow their digital skills. This project is being delivered by PCrefurb in partnership with the NHS. The aim of the Digital Wellbeing Project is to train up a network of Digital Champions who will help people to develop their digital skills and confidence in using devices to access online services. Clients will be taught how to use services in order to help with day-to-day activities and improve their health and wellbeing.

A lack of digital skills and access can have a huge negative impact on a person’s life causing:

• poorer health outcomes and a lower life expectancy
• increased loneliness and social isolation
• less access to jobs and education It can mean:
• paying more for essentials
• an increased risk of falling into poverty
• lack of a voice and visibility in the modern world
• For more information: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer/opportunity/120047

Ashton United in the Community
Match Day Steward

Match stewards play a vital role in ensuring the safety of spectators and visitors to the club on a match day. As a match steward, you are the public face of the club. You will often be the first point of contact with supporters.
Tuesday evenings and Saturday afternoons
For more information: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer/opportunity/104284

Ashton United in the Community
Ground Maintenance Volunteer
Grounds Maintenance Volunteers are needed help to prepare the Ashton United Football Club grounds ahead of the next football season. Volunteers are needed to help with the ongoing maintenance of the grounds and the area around the club.
Tasks include grounds maintenance, general DIY, painting, cleaning, tidying, litter picking, gardening, general repairs, up keep of the pitch and stands
For more information: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer/opportunity/121057

Ashton United in the Community
Grounds Preparation & Clearance Team Member

The club requires individuals to help with the preparation of the ground for a matchday and assistance with the clear up after a game.
Tuesday evenings and Saturday afternoons
Tasks the volunteer will be required to do:

• To assist with the preparation of the ground for a match.
• To ensure that the ground and its environs are tidy and presentable.
• To assist the ground staff as required.
• To assist with any deliveries.
• To help clear the ground of litter and assist with making the ground secure post-match.

For more information: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer/opportunity/104291

Ashton United in the Community
Ball boy/girl
The club requires assistance to recover balls kicked from the field of play and out of the stadium at Hurst Cross, in the lead up to, during, and at half time of matches.
Tasks the volunteer will be required to do:

• Recovering balls that leave the field of play and returning them.
• Engaging with home and visiting supporters presenting a warm and friendly atmosphere at home games

For more information: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer/opportunity/104290

Feedo Needo
Feedo Needo Food Parcel Distribution Volunteer - Piccadilly Gardens, Manchester
Volunteers are need on Thursday evenings to help Feedo Needo to distribute food parcels to homeless people and people in need in Piccadilly Gardens in Manchester
Thursdays 5pm – 7pm
For more information: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer/opportunity/128399

OLDHAM VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

To view all of Oldham’s volunteer opportunities visit
https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteering?geographical_area_944%5B%...

Church Army

Football Coach Volunteer
Currently there are 3 volunteer positions available – football coaches for Under 7s, Under 9s, and Under 11s. Time: Every Wednesday 3:20 to 5:30pm term time. If you have experience in coaching football, or even with other sports; or you have experience with children’s activities, and basic knowledge of football, then we want you!
For more information: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer/opportunity/128265

Mahdlo Youth Zone

Volunteer Mentors
The mentoring scheme is designed to offer one to one support to young people aged 8-19 (or 25 if they have additional needs). Mentors come from all walks of life and share a willingness to help young people through providing guidance and assistance with any difficulties they may be experiencing. To be a Mentor, you do not need a youth work background, you just need to be a positive role model and are available to give one to two hours a week (which is flexible depending on the young person’s availability and needs, as well as your own). Mentors can make a huge difference to a young person’s life by quite simply being there. They must be able to give 1-2 hours per week and able to commit to supporting their young person over a 12 month period.
For more information: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer/opportunity/127701

Oldham Libraries
Storytelling/Children’s Events Volunteer
To prepare and lead a children’s Storytime session, singing session or assist with story walks.
Tasks the volunteer will be required to do:

1. Assist customer experience assistants with planning and preparation of story times
2. Select new themes
3. Help set up children’s area
4. Take part in or lead story time
5. Assist with Bounce & Rhyme and Baby days sessions
6. Learn and sing nursery rhymes
7. Help tidy up following session

For more information: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer/opportunity/125718

Oldham Libraries

Code Club Volunteer
To support children, aged 9-11, during Code Club sessions. Help children use Code Club projects to make games, animations and websites. Teach a group of 10-15 children simple coding using laptops, tablets and BBC micro: bits. Confirm your own coding knowledge by teaching others.
Tasks the volunteer will be required to do:

• Helping with a Code Club session in a local library
• Setting up Coding Club sessions.
• Helping to prepare sessions each week
• Supporting Children with ICT throughout the term time period.
• Getting children familiar with laptops, computers and micro:bits use in coding.
• Help children make computer games, animations and websites using Scratch, HTML & CSS and Python.

For more information: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer/opportunity/125544

Oldham Libraries
Front of House - Live@thelibrary Volunteer

• To help alongside staff to welcome and support audience members during live@thelibrary events, ensuring productions run smoothly whilst looking after the audience.
• Welcome audience members to events, guiding them to seats in the performance space or other parts of the Centre.
• To check customer tickets on entry to the performance space.
• Being the first point of contact for any audience enquiries or requests for information.
• To assist, if required, with serving refreshments.
• To sit within the performance space at show times and be on hand to offer assistance.
• To assist with issuing and collecting event evaluations.
• To assist the Duty Manager, a member of staff, with fire and health & safety procedure in order to minimize the risk of injury and accident.
• To attend show and event briefings led by the Duty Manager at the start of every volunteering shift.
• To be an active ambassador for the library service and an advocate for live@thelibrary in general.

For more information: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer/opportunity/125716

Oldham Libraries

Reading Friends
Reading Friends volunteers meet with Reading Friends participants, either one-to-one or in a group, to use reading (in any format) as a way of sparking conversations.
Tasks the volunteer will be required to do:

For reading in a group setting:

• Lead group reading activities and facilitate conversation using reading materials as a basis for discussion.
• Make practical arrangements to identify and select suitable materials (books, newspapers, handling objects etc.) which focus on the groups’ interests.
• Prepare other resources as necessary (chairs, tea, coffee etc.) in advance of each session.
• Be aware of and sensitive to the needs of those in the group.
• Ensure everyone is able to contribute to the session and feels welcomed and involved.
• Lead on various themed activities (e.g. memory boxes, etc.).
• Help to clean and tidy up following sessions.

For one-to-one home visiting:

• Make practical arrangements to identify and select suitable materials which focus on the Reading Friend’s interests (books, newspapers etc.).
• Visit the Reading Friend in their own home, on a regular basis.
• Provide companionship and conversation using the reading materials as a basis for discussion.

For more information: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer/opportunity/127242

Oldham Libraries

Digital Champion
To guide customers through basic IT courses hosted on the Learn My Way website and assist customers with their basic IT enquiries and support their use of digital devices.
Tasks the volunteer will be required to do:

• Running LearnMyWay classes in a local library
• Providing general IT assistance to customers.
• Promoting membership of Oldham Library and Information Service.
• Encouraging reading and the use of other facilities within their local library.
• Training complete beginners to help them get started with computers, including keyboard and mouse skills, e-mail and the Internet.
• Promoting lifelong learning and signpost to further programs available.

For more information: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer/opportunity/126911

ROCHDALE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

To view all of Rochdale’s volunteer opportunities visit
https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteering?geographical_area_944%5B%...

Action Together. Community Warehouse – Rochdale
Community Warehouse Volunteer
The Community Warehouse Volunteer role is vital in helping us to deliver support to the people and communities that we serve. You will be responsible for the picking and packing, of food and care supplies, to enable the VCFSE sector in Rochdale to provide emergency supplies to the homes of people in crisis as a result of Covid-19. The warehouse is open on Mondays, 10am – 3pm you can join us just for a morning or afternoon – or both!
For more information: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer/opportunity/127938

Get up and Grow Community Interest Company
Social Media Manager and Content Creator
Creation of content for social media accounts. Schedule content on social media. Engagement with basic enquiries and discussions via social media. Explore YouTube / video sharing platforms. Opportunity to do live social content creation at events.
Tasks the volunteer will be required to do:

• Creation of content for social media accounts
• Schedule content on social media
• Engagement with basic enquiries and discussions via social media
• Explore YouTube / video sharing platforms
• Opportunity to do live social content creation at events

For more information: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer/opportunity/125837
 

Get up and Grow Community Interest Company
Fundraising and Event support
Tasks the volunteer will be required to do:

• Look out for fundraising opportunities
• Help co-ordinate and promote fundraising events
• Handling general enquiries
• Opportunity to support at events

For more information: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer/opportunity/125836

Link4life (Your Trust)

Inclusion and Disability Sports Volunteer
To enable people with moderate to complex learning disabilities to engage and enjoy the sport sessions. The need for high level support means that we would really benefit from support from volunteers in helping these individuals engage with and enjoy the session. This may include things like passing them a beanbag or ball to throw, retrieving balls or beanbags, standing a meter or so away to very gently throw a sponge ball to land on a racket that the carer is helping the individual to hold, or providing prompts and reminders on the activity (example “Anne, see if you can drop the beanbag onto the giraffe picture”) for those who struggle to understand. We rotate weekly between sports, so one week we might play Boccia (but with sponge balls and beanbags as well as Boccia balls), another week we might play rounders using a short tennis racket as a bat, and a sponge ball, and another week we might do football with a giant inflatable stability ball. The volunteer would need a reasonable physical health to be able to pick balls up from the floor and join in with the games.
For more information: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer/opportunity/127096

1st Milnrow Scouts
Squirrel Scout Leader

To enable the Squirrel Scouts to enjoy new adventures; to experience the outdoors, interact with others, gain confidence and have the opportunity to reach their full potential.
For more information: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer/opportunity/127031

1st Milnrow Scouts
Assistant Cub Scout Leader
To assist the Cub Scout Leader to enable the Scouts to enjoy new adventures, to experience the outdoors, interact with others, gain confidence and have the opportunity to reach their full potential
For more information: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer/opportunity/127028

1st Milnrow Scouts
Assistant Beaver Scout Leader
To assist the Scout Leader with activities
For more information: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer/opportunity/127006

Carers Hub - Rochdale
PenPal scheme - writing to Carers
To help combat loneliness and isolation for unpaid Carers. To write to Carers to give them something to look forward to each month. Some carers prefer the written word to emails, texts and video-calls. Would you like to be matched to a carer who would then exchange hand-written letters with you once a month… using good old-fashioned pen, paper and The Post Office?! This service might provide support at a time of loneliness, or it could simply provide a much-needed wellbeing boost (to both carer and volunteer!) Each PenPal Volunteer is provided with a stationery pack (including pen, writing paper and freepost envelopes) upon completion of training, so your involvement will cost you nothing but your time. The Volunteer Hub administer the freepost re-direction, so that the addresses for both you and the carer are kept confidential and un-shared.
For more information: https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/volunteer/opportunity/125094