Rochdale

Volunteer Voices 2024, Meet Findel

Employer Supported Volunteering, or Corporate Volunteering, is where the employees of an organisation take time to volunteer during work hours, or organise volunteer activities. Action Together works with local groups across Oldham, Rochdale and Tameside to develop volunteering projects and roles, and then matches workplaces that want to volunteer with local organisations who need their help.

Last year Action Together were approached by Hyde-based Findel Education with a request to help them find an opportunity for their staff to get involved in volunteering.

We were already supporting our member organisation Hattersley Projects to recruit new volunteers by advertising their volunteer opportunities through the volunteering directory on our website, social media and volunteering emails. This quickly found six new volunteers to support their projects, helping them get involved in gardening, woodwork, painting, and learning new skills around sustainability and growing flowers, fruit and vegetables.

As part of of our Employer Supported Volunteering offer in Tameside, we then linked Hattersley Projects with Findel Education, and a team of four employees attended for a volunteer day.

Sharmain, Volunteer Lead at Hattersley Projects, said;

"They cleared the space beside our entrance and planted flowers to make the area more welcoming. The difference it has made is huge and we have had nothing but compliments about the first impressions walking into our site.

A massive thank you to Katie, Maria and Paul who worked tirelessly in the heat to make a huge difference to an area of the centre and a big difference for their community. It’s employers and people that volunteer here who make the biggest difference and can help us in many different ways. Thanks also to Action Together who supported us, and who continue to do so."

group of women in front of delivery van saying 'the bread and butter thing'

Following their volunteer day at Hattersley Projects, Findel Education continued their drive to support local charities, and Action Together connected them with Community Matters.

Community Matters is run through the Hattersley Community Hub and helps support families across Tameside. The aim of the campaign was to help families in need by providing pencil cases filled with stationery to children to use as part of their learning. For many families the cost of stationery is one that very few can afford. This appeal goes a long way in ensuring children have the equipment they need to learn and that they don’t feel that they are missing out because they don’t have some of the things that other children do.

Claire Greave from Findel Education said;

“We were more than happy to donate 100 filled pencil cases to their cause as it’s important to us here at Findel that we support children’s education however we can. Part of our ethos ‘growing education for generations’ is to ensure that everyone gets a fair chance, and that’s why campaigns like these ones really matter. Thanks to Jacqueline and Janet for visiting and we can’t wait to hear how this campaign makes a difference.

Action Together helps bring people and communities together and we simply wouldn’t get to hear about all these amazing charities and groups if it wasn’t for you, so thank you!”

Findel were thrilled to support and, following their initial involvement with Community Matters, they have gone on to support them on more occasions - with donations of toys and games at Christmas to distribute across the community, and with another employee volunteer day supporting The Bread and Butter Thing in Hattersley!

Want to know more?

If your team would like to volunteer together, find out more about Employer Supported Volunteering at: www.actiontogether.org.uk/ESV

two women holding gifts of toy donations

Volunteer Voices 2024, Meet Samson

We are thrilled to hear, in his words, how Samson's volunteering journey is flourishing, the huge benefits he's bringing to the community, and the personal sense of achievement and wellbeing he's taking from his role.

Samson told us;

“I am originally from Rwanda. I have been in England since 2022. Being part of the Tameside community, I feel a moral obligation to contribute to its development in any way. I have undertaken the process of volunteering with New Life Church for the role English Conversation Facilitator. I speak English, French and Swahili fluently. I also have intermediate level of Luganda (largely spoken in Uganda).

The role involves teaching basic English on an agreed topic, encouraging learning through conversation and practice. Learners are from Tameside communities who need help to improve their communication in English.

Action Together was my lightening candle and entry gate into volunteering. They walked me through the volunteering process and made the necessary arrangements and connections for me to begin volunteering. They also regularly provide useful information through their resourceful website and eBulletins.”

Volunteer Voices 2024, Meet National Gas

In November 2023, as part of of our Employer Supported Volunteering offer in Rochdale, we successfully placed employees from National Gas with The Bond Board. National Gas approached us expressing their wish to undertake a volunteering day to support a local group that really need that extra help. After speaking with several groups, one that stood out to was The Bond Board.

The Bond Board has been operating in Rochdale since 1993 and is a registered charity that exists to reduce homelessness by getting people on low incomes into private rented accommodation. One of many support initiatives they offer is their regular 'Quid's In' coffee mornings at St Andrews Church in Rochdale, and they were in need of volunteers to support in the kitchen as well as front of house.

National Gas were more than happy to support and, since volunteering in November, they have developed quite a partnership and have since returned to volunteer again for The Bond Board in January this year!

group of five young people in community centre smiling

Emma Bellis, National Gas said;

“I just want to say a big thank you for allowing myself and my team to come and volunteer on Wednesday, we had a great time!

We really enjoyed having an opportunity to understand The Bond Board, the super hard-working team you have there and also meet the people who depend on your services. Also thank you Action Together for helping set this up for us.”

The Bond Board said;

“It was so good to welcome four Employer Supported Volunteers from National Gas with us at our Coffee Morning today. They got stuck in with supporting our existing volunteers in the kitchen and helping to manage our donations table. They enjoyed it so much they want to come back! A big thank you to Action Together for facilitating what will hopefully be a brilliant ongoing partnership.”

young woman and man smiling helping in community kitchen

Volunteer Celebration Fund | Our success stories from 2023

As part of this years’ Volunteers’ Week celebrations, we launched our ever popular Action Together Volunteer Celebration Fund for 2024.

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 2023.

All Sufficient Sanctuary

All Sufficient Sanctuary hosted their Volunteer Celebration Programme in September 2023. The celebration started with a welcome speech by Chair; Veronica Afemikhe. In her speech, she thanked the volunteers for their selfless efforts in the last year and also highlighted some of the achievements in the period under review. This include the record number of people All Sufficient Sanctuary were able to reach in last year.

Volunteers were presented with a Certificate of Commendation and gift vouchers, to thank them for their contributions. Food and drink was also provided at the celebration, and the cutting of the celebration cake was a notable highlight of the event.

All Sufficient Sanctuary also used the opportunity to introduce new people into the volunteer workforce.

large group of people cutting cake at a celebration event

Royton and Crompton Over 60’s

Royton & Crompton Over 60’s hosted a fabulous celebration lunch for 44 of their volunteers. The volunteers were treated to a fish and chip lunch which, "went down a treat!" followed by a variety of sweets, cheese and biscuits and a large celebration cake. The group also gave volunteers a Gift of a Bush for their gardens and a goody bag with a variety of items such as chocolates, note book and pen.

"We all had a wonderful afternoon celebrating and may thanks go to Action Together and their team for the support we receive, especially from Adele who is a gem.

Our volunteer members, many who live alone, state that having a lunch together is the highlight of their week. Friendships are formed over the weeks, and even more so over the intimacy of a meal. Thanks you so much for your support."

older people's group smiling holding gift plant pots

SAWN

To celebrate their volunteers' contribution, SAWN took advantage of a lovely summers day and held a barbeque at GROWE, their community Orchard in Failsworth. The volunteers were able to enjoy delicious food and were also presented with a certificate of achievement to recognise their commitment and contribution to SAWN’s services.

"Without the volunteers' commitment we would not have been able to deliver services, such as the Furniture hub, Agatha’s Space, SARATI and other services within SAWN.

All the volunteers really appreciated getting together to enjoy the barbecue, cake and the good weather. Our oldest volunteer, Mama Norma, who helps out in the furniture shop said, '' I don't know what I would do without SAWN... you are my family! If it wasn't for you I would be sitting at home in my front room watching the traffic go by with my cat Whitey all day long. Instead, I get up and I come down to the mill where I feel useful, and I appreciate feeling loved and supported by my SAWN family.''

The application was very simple and straightforward - thank you Action Together for all your support. We know we can ring any one of your staff for advice and guidance and this is very much appreciated."

group of people sat in circle on garden chairs at a barbecue under gazebo

Oasis Hub Oldham

Oasis Hub Oldham sent out official invitations to their volunteers inviting them to a Volunteer Celebration. On the day, they went and purchased an afternoon tea-style lunch with sandwiches, wraps, salad, cakes, and drinks. They decorated the tables at Northern Lily with tablecloths and set up the food table.

Volunteers arrived to a wonderful lunch, and each volunteer was called out to the front to receive their personalised certificate and chocolates, and were applauded and celebrated for their hard work.

The fun also continued as the group then went out and collected fruit from the orchard (apples, pears, blackberries) to make fresh fruit juice in the outdoor juicer. They also visited the therapy pygmy goats, brushed, fed, and had cuddles with them. At the end of the day, everyone was given a bag full of fruit and veg to take home.

"Everyone had a wonderful time! The project was a success, the highlights were giving out the certificates and celebrating every volunteer individually.

"It was an amazing day loved everything about it had such wonderful people there to celebrate wit.h " Vikki Jackson

"It was good because everyone was there that we know. I like the goats and the food and also enjoyed picking the apples." Sofia Wood (young neurodiverse volunteer)

"I enjoyed the day and felt appreciated for my work volunteering." Sarah Miller

Fatima Women’s Association

Fatima Women's Association treated 20 volunteers to a celebration meal, where they conducted a presentation, talked about the remarkable success of FWA for over 32 years, shared past and present stories and presented certificates to the volunteers.

"It was a successful event which was appreciated by everyone present."

group of women smiling holding certificates

Chadderton Together

Chadderton Together created Lydia’s Tearoom, in Foxdenton Park, in 2021. This tearoom is now a busy and thriving not for profit community hub and cafe. They operate the café with willing volunteers who freely give up their time by volunteering. This essential help allows the café to remain open five days each week.

Chadderton Together used their funding to host a celebratory luncheon. This luncheon acknowledged the band of regular Lydia’s Tearoom volunteers as a way of saying “Thank you!” for all their hard work, time and commitment that they freely given to Chadderton Together and the cafe. The luncheon was an amazing success and a wonderful way to meet up and chat on a more social basis.

"Had a wonderful few hours at the Hunt Lane Tavern being treated to lunch and drinks with fellow volunteers. Thank you Action Together for making it possible. So nice for volunteers to be appreciated in this way." Mags Hughes

"Great afternoon lovely company and delicious food. The volunteers are greatly appreciated and had a well deserved treat. Big thank you to all who were involved." Mary Wilk

"Being a volunteer at Lydia's Tearoom is something which I enjoy immensely. I work with lovely people and we all enjoy our time with each other. Our recent lunchtime get-together at the Hunt Lane Tavern was very much appreciated. As well as the lovely food and drink which was provided for us, it gave us the opportunity to socialise as a group. I certainly enjoyed the opportunity to be part of the group. Many thanks to everyone who helped to make this happen." Jean Warner

women at a celebration lunch sat around round table eating food

Volunteer Celebration Fund 2024 Information

We are very happy to share that all the funds for the Volunteer Celebration Fund 2024 have been successfully allocated to organisations in Oldham, Rochdale and Tameside, to support them in celebrating their dedicated volunteers.

If you have any queries, please contact our Funding team on: 0161 339 2345 or email: funding@actiontogether.org.uk

Mental Health Awareness Week | Funding Opportunities

Mental Health Awareness Week takes place between 13-17 May 2024 - an important week to shine a light on mental health and break down stigma.

Action Together secure investment that supports local action, removes barriers and helps to get funding to where it’s needed most.

This week, we would like to highlight the funding opportunities we have available for member organisations who support individuals to help better their wellbeing:

graphic illustration of hands holding flag banners in the air with various logos

Barchester Healthcare Foundation

The Foundation aims to make a difference to the lives of older people and other adults with a physical, learning or mental disability; supporting practical solutions that lead to increased personal independence, self-sufficiency and dignity. The aim of this fund is on connecting or re-connecting people with others in their local community. Applications that combat loneliness and enable people to be active and engaged will receive highest priority.

Grant amount: from £100 to £2,500
Deadline: Applications may be submitted at any time

Bally's Foundation

The main focus of the Foundation is on providing grants and funding to organisations to preserve and protect the wellbeing of individuals suffering from mental health issues.

Grant amount: Funding is at the discretion of the Foundation
Deadline: There are no application deadlines

Douglas Arter Foundation

Grants are available to UK registered charities for projects for the benefit of people of all ages with physical and mental disabilities within the UK.

Grant amount: Funding is provided at the discretion of the Trustees. Previous grants have been for between £500 and £2,000, with the majority being given in the £250 to £500 range

Deadline: Applications may be submitted at any time

Sir Jules Thorn Charitable Trust - Ann Rylands Small Donations Programme

The Sir Jules Thorn Charitable Trust offers grants to UK based charitable organisations which offer practical and emotional support to improve health and care for; older people, people with disabilities or living with serious illness, people needing palliative and end-of-life care, or people facing challenges with mental health, social exclusion or homelessness

Grant amount: up to £5,000
Deadline: Applications may be submitted at any time

CRH Charitable Trust

The funding is for charitable activities that seek to support children, young people and adults with mental illness and mental disability in north west England.

Grant amount: There is no specific maximum or minimum grant
Deadline: Rolling programme

Synergi Small Grants Fund

The funding aims to support grassroots campaigning at the intersection between abolition, mental health and racial justice.

Grant amount: £5,000 are available
Deadline: 30 May 2024

Funding support for you

If you have any queries about the funding available from Action Together, please emailing our Funding team at funding@actiontogether.org.uk

If your group would like support with a funding application, please email our Development team at development@actiontogether.org.uk

South Asian Heritage Month and KYP

Join us as we mark South Asian Heritage Month 2024, by sharing some stories from our Action Together member organisations to highlight the richness and diversity of their South Asian Heritage, and find out just what this celebration means to them.

Here's our interview with Rochdale based KYP, a leading community/voluntary organisation, who are celebrating a staggering 44 years of providing services and support to the communities of Rochdale!

group of employees from KYP smiling in front of green, white and gold happy birthday balloons

Can you tell us about yourself and your organisation?

Kashmir Youth Project (KYP), founded in 1979, is a prominent VCSE organisation based in central Rochdale. As an independent charity with a rich history spanning over four decades, KYP is well recognised and trusted in the community and is committed to fostering the development and economic regeneration of South Asian and other ethnically diverse communities in the borough of Rochdale. We strive to empower people to achieve their potential, enhance their prosperity and live sustainably.

The organisation was established by a group of young people to assist individuals and communities adjust to the impact of the decline of the textile industry and the closure of mills in which many people of South Asian origin were employed. The initial focus was to provide advice on benefits & welfare rights and support people find alternative employment. The focus very quickly shifted (based on emerging needs) to raising youth aspirations, learning new skills and promoting access to further education.

woman wearing head scarf using sewing machine

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

We have a solid track record of engaging with and providing support to individuals from South Asian backgrounds (Pakistan, Kashmir, Bangladesh) and to those from other diverse and marginalised communities (including refugees and asylum seekers from Afghanistan, Ukraine, Syria, Somalia, etc).

KYP’s support to the communities culminates in:

Over 30 years of employment and skills training to the local community – including Community Learning, AEB, Apprenticeships and SSFW.

30 years of providing on-site childcare through our Little Gems Nursery

Over 15 years of delivering Adult care through the Unity House / Apna Ghar facilities

Over 15 years delivery of Ethnic Minority Business Support

Successful delivery of the AMIF programme (including ESOL, Integration, LIUK support) reaching over 964 people over four years

711 TCN’s, 182 Afghans, 71 Ukrainians (78.9%) achieved either Life in the UK or ESOL qualification.

30 years of managed workspace for new business startups and existing businesses

Our current provision includes:

Adult Education – Childcare, Health and Social Care, Maths and English

Little Gems Nursery - a 37-place community Nursery

KYP Pantry – Providing culturally and religiously appropriate food

Advice and Welfare Service – Free bilingual face to face service

Job Club – Employability support

Apna Ghar – Day care for older men and women

Social Prescribing – Referrals from network partners

Community Facilities – Community functions and events

Restart Programme- Employability and ESOL courses

Tackling Health Inequalities – Addressing Health and Wellbeing for BAME Women

GMCA/WEA – Community Engagement and progression opportunities

Rochdale Ethnic Communities Network – KYP Leads this network of organisations and Leaders

GM Ethnic Communities Network – KYP is part of the Leadership Group and is represented on the Board of Directors

Rochdale Diversity Awards – KYP manages and hosts these prestigious Awards

group of women in sewing class working on patterns

What is KYP doing for South Asian Heritage Month?

We're holding several events including;

Celebration of Women’s Voices through Creative Writing (Poetry) in collaboration with the Hard Pressed Heritage Project run by Commonword | Tuesday 23 July 2024 at Kashmir Youth Project.

Celebrating and showcasing the contributions of people from South Asia to Rochdale and wider society in collaboration with Crescent Community Radio | Tuesday 13 August 2024 at Kashmir Youth Project.

woman at desk doing calligraphic writing

Why do you feel it is important to celebrate South Asian Heritage Month?

It's important to celebrate South Asian Heritage because:

It acknowledges and values people’s heritage and culture

It instils a sense of pride and promotes positive self-identity

It acknowledges people’s contribution to the borough (and British society)

It instils civic pride, citizenship, and a sense of belonging (to the borough of Rochdale/wider society)

It fosters unity and harmony

It creates an opportunity for social inclusion, and sharing of knowledge/culture

It provides an alternative perspective to what people may have assumed, or been taught in school

What change would you like to see in Rochdale that would benefit the South Asian community?

Often, due to historic and political tendencies, people of South Asian heritage are misrepresented or stereotypically depicted.

Many first generation people of South Asian heritage who came in the early 1970s settled in locations close to the textile mills in the borough. These localities, over time, have steadily declined and the people within these neighbourhoods have been caught up and find themselves in disadvantage due to the neighbourhood and lack of investment within such localities. This has spiralled downwards and the neighbourhoods have featured in the Indices of Multiple Deprivation for over two-three decades. Few individuals and families have overcome barriers and managed to become socially mobile, but quite a sizeable proportion of the South Asian community fall within the poverty trap due to location, circumstances, lack of suitable education, lack of skills, lack of opportunities, etc, due to years of oversight by the public and statutory sector failing to address the root causes.

We would like to see these inequalities and root causes addressed and challenged so that the next generation of young people do not have to suffer the consequences, so that they too can benefit from the opportunities and values Great Britain espouses.

We would like to recommend the recognition of the Kashmiri community in Rochdale for its contribution to the borough.

We would also like to recommend the recognition of the Kashmiri community as a separate group with its own language, culture and Heritage and not to be included in the category of British Pakistani when services are planned.

community group of women with arms in the air and backs to the camera

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

Many first and second generation of South Asians have lived and grown up in Rochdale and consider themselves as active citizens of the borough. This their home and future. They are an integral part of the community and contribute to the local economy and social infrastructure. They are proud to be 'Rochdalians' and love the borough and the country. The experience, resilience, perseverance and determination is enough to inspire others; this needs to be showcased and celebrated alongside any other specific contributions they have made to make their borough and country a better place to live and work in.

KYP is proud that amongst the founder members of the organisation, we have a few honoured dignitaries; Lord Qurban Hussain of Luton; Mohammed Habeebullah OBE; Shahid Malik (former General Manager of KYP) elected MP who became the first Muslim heritage Minister in 2007.

There are a number of other prominent people who have started their career in KYP such as Councillor Dalaat Ali, Deputy Leader of the Council; Cllr Iftikar Ahmed – Portfolio Holder for Health, Abdul Hamied – Deputy Director Strategic Partnerships – NHS England. etc

food bank stocked with lots of food and provisions

Funding Campaign | Seed Fund offers easy access grants in Rochdale

This April, our Funding Campaign aims to bring you stories and information about the multiple support offers we have available – whether that’s a focus on a specific grant, details of the advice and support we provide or access to our funding focused training.

Today we want to share with you the details of our recently launched Seed Fund in Rochdale. We’ve already received, and funded, several successful applications but are excited to spread the word so that more amazing projects can be supported across Rochdale, so if you’re a small community group looking for funding to get your community project off the ground this could be perfect for you!

Part of the Rochdale Communities Fund, our 'Seed Fund' offers easy access grants of up to £500 to Rochdale based micro-organisations and community groups who are unconstituted to support individuals, families, and communities in the Rochdale Borough.

Informal groups, of at least three people, actively engaging with an Action Together Community Development Worker, working towards constitution, and who have not already received a Seed Fund will be able to apply for this funding.

Your project must fall within one or more of the following priorities:

Challenging poverty and driving equality

Supporting people and communities to get back on their feet and take more control over their lives – i.e. practical support, advice or peer support
Reducing inequalities and helping more people reach their potential
Strengthening 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
Building strong relationships in and across communities

We are thrilled to report there are already several Rochdale based groups who have been successful in accessing this grant, and are beginning to make great progress with their projects.

Boro Bees

One example is the wonderful project over at Boro Bees in Littleborough. Earlier this month our Community Development Worker Julie met with co-founder, Mark Harris, to discuss the support we can offer and the grant available for new groups through our Seed Fund Programme.

We will be able to provide resources, guidance, and tools that will help Boro Bees thrive and make a positive impact in the community. It's truly inspiring to see the passion and dedication of everyone involved in this project. Boro Bees are not just creating a space for bees to thrive, but they are also fostering a stronger, more sustainable community.

community meeting between two people around a laptop

The Seed Fund is a fantastically easy to access grant, without the need for lengthy, complicated application forms. To apply you’ll need to meet with one of our Community Development Workers to discuss your idea and answer some basic questions about your project. The Community Development Worker will then complete an application on your behalf, and submit the application for a grant decision.

You can apply if:

you are a social action group or micro group locally rooted or actively working in the borough of Rochdale; and
you are a member of Action Together CIO
you have not already received a grant through the Seed Fund
you are working towards becoming a formally constituted group and receiving support from a Community Development Worker

If your group is based in Rochdale or Pennines, please contact Julie Durrant: julie.durrant@actiontogether.org.uk

If your group is based in Heywood or Middleton, please contact Fi Oakes: Fi.Oakes@actiontogether.org.uk

For more general information, please either call 0161 339 2345 and ask for Hayley Tomlinson or please email: hayley.tomlinson@actiontogether.org.uk

South Asian Heritage Month and Yuvanis Foundation

Here's our interview with Zakir Ahmad, CEO of Oldham community organisation, Yuvanis Foundation, an organisation who have been committed to empowering and uplifting individuals from diverse BAME backgrounds since their launch in 2009.

community group of people smiling at event

Can you tell us about yourself and your organisation?

I have been leading Yuvanis Foundation, a grassroots charity based in Chadderton, for over 14 years. Our organisation is dedicated to supporting the South Asian community and tackling inequality within our community. We focus on improving health equity, providing sports and recreational opportunities, and fostering social inclusion for individuals from diverse backgrounds. Our initiatives are designed to bridge gaps, create connections, and build a sense of community that transcends cultural and socio-economic barriers.

group of children sat on floor watching children's entertainers

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

One of our significant achievements is the establishment of wellbeing hubs, including our Women’s Hub, Youth Hub, and Men’s Hub. These hubs offer tailored programs that address physical health, mental wellbeing, and personal development. For instance, our Women's Hub has been instrumental in improving the mental and physical health of women from underserved and disadvantaged Ethnic Minority communities in Oldham.

We also organise various activities such as weekly football sessions, cycling sessions, and holiday activities that have positively impacted the lives of young people. Our cycling initiative is a noteworthy example. Through it, we have trained eight volunteers in leading cycling groups; trained multiple groups of women to cycle for the first time; engaged more than 50 young people in cycle maintenance and confidence building group cycle rides.

teams of children in coloured bibs lining up to play games on indoor football pitch

Why do you feel it is important to celebrate South Asian Heritage Month?

Celebrating South Asian Heritage is crucial as it acknowledges the rich cultural contributions of the South Asian community to the broader society. It fosters a sense of pride and identity among South Asians, promoting cultural understanding and appreciation within the wider community. By celebrating our heritage, we also highlight the challenges faced by South Asians, encouraging solidarity and collective action to address these issues. It's a way to honour our past, celebrate our present, and inspire future generations to uphold our values and traditions.

group of women and girls gathered round a table

What change would you like to see in Oldham that would benefit the South Asian community?

I would like to see increased investment in community-led initiatives that address the specific needs of the South Asian community in Oldham. This includes better access to health services, educational opportunities, and employment support tailored to our community's unique challenges.

I also envision a more inclusive and cohesive society where cultural diversity is celebrated, and systemic barriers to equality are removed. Strengthening partnerships between local authorities, businesses, and community organisations, like Yuvanis Foundation, is essential to drive this change and ensure sustainable development.

girls wearing headscarves writing and drawing at table

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

To the people of South Asian heritage in Greater Manchester, I would say, your unique experiences and cultural heritage are invaluable assets. Use them to make a positive impact in your community. Get involved, volunteer, and support local initiatives. By contributing your time, skills, and resources, you can help build a stronger, more inclusive society. Remember, every small action counts and collectively, we can create significant change. Let's celebrate our heritage not just through words, but through actions that uplift our community and inspire future generations.

group of cyclists wearing helmets overlooking lake with passenger boat on it

South Asian Heritage Month 2024

South Asian Heritage Month seeks to commemorate, mark and celebrate South Asian cultures, histories, and communities. It first took place in 2020, and runs from 18th July to 17th August each year.

The purpose of the month is to understand the diverse heritage and cultures that continue to link the UK with South Asia.

You can find out more about South Asian Heritage Month here: southasianheritage.org.uk/about-the-south-asian-heritage-month/

Free to Be Me

Celebrating 5 years this year, the theme is 'Free to Be Me', where everyone is invited to celebrate the beauty of simply being yourself. Individuals, communities and organisations are encouraged to embrace differences in heritage and culture and truly foster inclusivity. 'Free to Be Me' will mean something different to everyone but in essence, it focuses on sharing similarities, honouring differences, and providing a platform to highlight diverse voices.

With this in mind, we're thrilled to bring you some information from the many amazing community groups across Oldham, Rochdale and Tameside who are marking South Asian Heritage Month with activities or events of their own.

Throughout the month, we'll also be bringing you some wonderful, personal stories from some of our members that highlight the richness and diversity of their South Asian Heritage...watch this space!

Rochdale Events and Activities

Organisation	Event Information	Date/Time	Location
Living Well	Rochdale Town Hall will come alive with the vibrant colours, sounds, and traditions of South Asian arts and crafts, fashion, music, and acts. The event celebrates some of the work Living Well have done, and the partnerships they've created in the South Asian community. Register for your FREE tickets: eventbrite.co.uk/e/rochdale-south-asian-heritage-festival-tickets-946087141107	Thursday 15 August 2024, 10am-12:30pm and/or 1:30pm-4pm	Rochdale Town Hall
KYP	Celebration of Women’s Voices through Creative Writing (Poetry) in collaboration with the Hard Pressed Heritage Project run by Commonword.	Tuesday 23 July 2024	Kashmir Youth Project, Unique Enterprise Centre, Belfield Road, Rochdale OL16 2UP
KYP	Celebrating and showcasing the contributions of people from South Asia to Rochdale and wider society in collaboration with Crescent Community Radio	Tuesday 13 August 2024

Tameside Events and Activities

Organisation

Event Information

Date/Time

Location

Tameside, Oldham and Glossop Mind

Community Connections Event - join TOG Mind for talks, music and demonstrations and more along with Diversity Matters North West / Active Tameside / Khush Amdid / The Red Cross

Find out more: www.facebook.com/TamesideOldhamGlossopMind

Wednesday 24 July 2024, 10am

216-218 Katherine Street, Ashton-under-Lyne, OL6 7AS

Get involved

If you are a group or organisation with South Asian culture why not use this month to share your story with the world? It is a great opportunity to celebrate and showcase the rich cultural heritage of South Asia and come together to appreciate the beautiful stories and traditions of those with South Asian heritage.

The South Asian Heritage Trust have a fabulous toolkit to help you decide on what to plan, and how to come together to celebrate. Find out more: www.southasianheritage.org.uk/events-toolkit-2023/

Refugee Week 2024

Refugee Week is the world’s largest arts and culture festival celebrating the contributions, creativity and resilience of refugees and people seeking sanctuary. Established in 1998 in the UK, this annual festival aligns with World Refugee Day, celebrated globally on June 20th. Refugee Week is for everyone. It’s a community-powered festival and everyone can get involved!

This year, Refugee Week will run from Monday 17 to Sunday 23 June and the theme is 'Our Home'. From the places we gather to share meals to our collective home, planet earth: everyone is invited to celebrate what our Our Home means to them. Find out more about the 'Our Home' theme here: refugeeweek.org.uk/theme-2024-ourhome/

We're proud to say there is an abundance of support across Oldham, Rochdale and Tameside. Together, this Refugee Week, let’s practice our solidarity and make Our Home a more welcoming, safe and sustainable place for all. Whether you build your own event or activity around a simple act or simply take part during Refugee Week, you’ll be part of a movement of people everywhere taking small steps to create a big change.

Our information below captures some of the amazing events happening throughout the week in our communities, and the support that continues throughout the year. We hope you find this inspiring and can get involved in whatever way you can.

refugee week 2024 illustration graphic of people in house made from tropical leaves

Oldham Events and Activities

Organisation	Event Information	Date/Time	Location
Action Together	Funding News! A new strand of our One Oldham Fund for VCFSE groups and organisations that are locally rooted or actively working in Oldham is 'Creating Pathways to Volunteering for Asylum Seekers and Refugees'. Formally constituted members of Action Together can apply for up to £3,000 to support asylum seekers and refugees to engage in volunteering. More details about this grant, and how to apply will be released soon but you can register to attend our Meet the Funder session HERE	Thursday 18 July, 11am-12pm	Online via Zoom
British Red Cross	Refugee Week Event featuring henna, sewing and craft, gardening workshop, face painting, lunch and refreshments with live music from DJ Sarmad.	Thursday 19 June, 10am-2pm	Oldham Baptist Church, OL1 1BA
Oldham Council	Sanctuary Seekers Hub Celebration Event including food, activities, gaming and signposting of their services.	Thursday 20 June, 1pm-3pm	Failsworth Library

Rochdale Events and Activities

Organisation	Event Information	Date/Time	Location
British Red Cross	Refugee Week Celebration with photography and banner exhibitions. Throughout the event there will be food, music, face painting, henna and more. There will also be crafts with Touchstones Museum. For more details contact: lorrainekerr@redcross.org.uk	Monday 17 June, 10am-2pm	St Mary's Church, St Mary's Gate, Rochdale OL16 1AP
The Culture Co-op	Artist talk with Curators Viktoria Bavykina and Maksym Gorbatsky, Photographer Igor Chekachkov, and Director of Open Eye Gallery Sarah Fisher. To book a place please contact: info@theculturecoop.org by 17 June.	Tuesday 18 June, 4:40pm-6:30pm	Ukrainian Centre, Mere St, Rochdale OL11 1HJ
Rochdale Borough Council	Free event for refugees, local residents who are interested in finding out more about the refugee experience and volunteering opportunities, professionals and practitioners. Find out more: Refugee Week Celebration	Wednesday 19 June, 10am-1pm	Number One Riverside, Smith Street, Rochdale OL16 1XU
Hope Football	RAFC welcomes Asylum Seekers and all refugees to Hope Football Club, and they are holding a football tournament on Wednesday 19 June. They also hold weekly sessions every Wednesday, 5pm-7pm. Find out more: www.rochdaleafccommunity.org/hope-football/ or contact: liz.cotterill@rochdaleafc.co.uk	Wednesday 19 June	Rochdale AFC Community Trust, Crown Oil Arena OL11 5DR
KYP	Kashmir Youth Project will be holding an Eid-al-Adha festival with activities including henna painting, arts, crafts and more. Please contact: Asma@kyp.org.uk as numbers are limited.	Thursday 20 June, 1pm-5pm	KYP, Unity House (Apna Ghar), Belfield Road, Rochdale OL16 2UP
ESOL Hopwood Hall College	ESOL at Hopwood Hall College is going to transform their department into different rooms of a home for a STUDENT ONLY event with health and well-being activities such as football, netball, crafts and relaxation. There will also be a 'swishing event' where learners can take items of clothing, toys or other household items for free.	Thursday 20 June, 10:30am-2pm	Hopwood Hall College OL12 6RY
Cartwheel Arts	Cartwheel Arts will be at The Whitworth Art Gallery with a Pop-up Art exhibition using Refugee Week 2024 theme of 'Our Home'. The exhibition explores the rich heritage crafts flourishing within Rochdale's vibrant communities with experience of forced migration. Get free tickets here: Gallery of Sanctuary-Refugee Week Celebrations at the Whitworth	Thursday 20 June, 4pm-8pm	The Whitworth, Oxford Road Manchester M15 6ER
Skylight Circus Arts	Skylight Circus Arts are holding week-long schedule of family sessions for refugees and people seeking asylum at Broadfield School, with the option to become involved in events throughout the Summer too. Contact info@skylightcircusarts.com for full details.
Touchstones Rochdale	Dumpling Day, a community celebration of dumpling delights from around the world. Sample an international variety of dumplings, join in with exciting dumpling-themed activities and enjoy a range of music in celebration of our diverse community. Find out more: www.yourtrustrochdale.co.uk/dumpling-day/	Saturday 22 June, 11am-3pm	Ukrainian Centre, Mere St, Rochdale OL11 1HJ
Culture Co-op	Home: Ukrainian Photography, UK Words Tour showcases work from 15 Ukrainian photographers who reveal Ukrainians’ current experience, and fundamental human values that underpin our idea of ‘home’: family and friends in a safe space, the beautiful landscapes, culture, and identity.Find out more: www.theculturecoop.org/home-exhibition	Sunday 2 June - Wednesday 10 July	Various locations, see link for full details

Rochdale Support Services

Organisation Information

Where in Rochdale?

Services provided for refugees and people seeking asylum

Aspire 2 Inspire

1c Regent Street, Rochdale OL12 0HQ

Aspire to Inspire offer a newly launched tutoring program for KS1 children, ESOL classes, a Repair Cafe, a food pantry and Qurbani meat distribution. More information: Aspire 2 Inspire

Rochdale and District Mind

The Mind Wellbeing Centre, 3-11 Drake Street, Rochdale OL16 1RE

You can find the full timetable of activities at Rochdale and District Mind here: www.rochdalemind.org.uk/. They continually offer support to new and emerging communities, and specific support for refugees and people seeking asylum.

Tameside Events and Activities

Organisation	Event Information	Date/Time	Location
British Red Cross	Refugee Week Party with a crochet art table, Henna art, nail art, live music performance along with the first performance of their Drama club Refugee/Asylum theatrical play 'Rising from Ashes' and a meal for their service users.	Thursday 20 June	Church of Nazreen, Ashton.

Tameside Support Services

Organisation Information	Where in Tameside?	Services provided for refugees and people seeking asylum
Home-Start HOST supports families in the community with at least one child under the age of five. Every family is different, so their support is holistic and tailored to each family's individual circumstances and needs.	Home-Start HOST main office is based at Ryecroft Hall in Audenshaw. However, they support families across the whole of Tameside and Glossop, and other areas of Greater Manchester including Oldham, Stockport and Bolton.	All of their services are open to any families living in the areas that they cover. They have a Diversity Coordinator who works with families in their home visiting service with a child aged 0-2, whose role is to coordinate support for families who may have barriers to accessing services, such as cultural or language barriers. Their Dad Matters team also have a coordinator who supports families from a diverse range of backgrounds that may experience health inequalities. Many of their volunteers find that their volunteering experience supports them to go on to further training and/or employment as they gain knowledge, skills and experience. They welcome anyone that is interested in volunteering to please get in touch with them, and of course any families that would be interested in accessing support: info@homestarthost.org.uk
Citizens Advice Tameside have a freephone adviceline, Monday to Friday 9am-1pm 0808 27 87805. They are available for online chat. The chat with an adviser online is usually available 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. They also have face-to-face advice access from 16 outreach advice sessions a week across the borough.	Offices are based in Ashton, in Tameside One.	They offer free, confidential, independent, impartial, advice and information on virtually any issue: Welfare Benefits, Consumer, Debt, Housing, Education, Health and Community Care, Immigration (OISC Level 1), Relationship/Family, Utilities. They offer specialist advice services in Debt, Housing, Employment, and Universal Credit claims through their Help to Claim project.
Ingeus creates and delivers services in employment, health, justice and youth.	Moving to new premises in Hyde next month.	Ingeus provide support into employment, such as support with CVs, cover letters, better off calculation, interview skills, mock interviews, job searching skills, support with applications and engagement with our specialist employment advisor who has employers who are disability friendly and neurodiverse.

Events across Greater Manchester

Organisation	Event Information	Date/Time	Location
Macc	GM VCSE Sanctuary Seekers In-Person Event - For Refugee Week 2024, Macc is holding an event on the 20th June. Open to anyone who wants to learn more about recent policy developments, celebrate the great work happening in our communities to support asylum seekers and refugees, and discuss how we can best work together to support people seeking sanctuary in GM. Plant-based lunch and refreshments provided. Sign up here: manchestercommunitycentral.org/civicrm/event/info?id=8646&reset=1	Thursday 20 June, 1:15pm-3:30pm	422 Community Hub, Stockport Road, Longsight, Manchester M12 4EX
WAST	Women Asylum Seekers Together (WAST) are holding Refugee Week Celebrations. Join them for an evening of singing, dancing, storytelling and poetry. Find out more: wastmanchester.com/news-and-blog/refugee-week-2024	Thursday 20 June, 6pm-7:30pm	Manchester Central Library, M2 5PD

Join the movement

And finally, Refugee Week may last only seven days, but the movement towards a kinder, more compassionate, equitable, and joyful world continues all year around. Once June draws to a close, why not carry the spirit and energy of Refugee Week with you and continue to stand in solidarity with people seeking sanctuary. Find out how your group, organisation, school or you personally can 'Join the movement': refugeeweek.org.uk/simple-acts/join-the-movement/

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