SPARK Oldham, based in Fitton Hill has received an £8,000 grant from the Resilience Fund.
This funding will enable SPARK to implement various community-driven projects aimed at promoting wellbeing, resilience, and a sense of belonging among local customers throughout 2025.
With a core mission to create an inclusive environment where individuals feel welcome and valued, SPARK Oldham is dedicated to providing opportunities for the community to thrive.
Their initiatives are designed to empower customers, create connections and enable access to essential services that contribute to healthier living.
The funding will support a range of projects that target different parts of the community, creating connections and promoting wellbeing:
- Women’s Support Group – A 10-week wellbeing project focusing on building confidence and self-belief. The group will encourage individuals to form new friendships and support networks, with attendees trained to become buddies or champions in the future.
- Pre-school Group – The Baby Boogies sessions will provide a safe space for parents and carers to bring their preschool children, promoting social skills and child development while allowing adults to make new friendships and improve their mental wellbeing.
- Family Cooking Session – This 10-week programme will teach families how to prepare nutritious meals on a budget, empowering them to make healthier choices while being mindful of their budget.
- Youth Activities – SPARK will conduct outreach to engage young people in the community, identifying their needs and preferences to enhance existing provisions and create new opportunities.
- Street Games – Families will have the chance to participate in play street sessions, utilising road closures by the local authority. Community members will be recruited and trained to plan and deliver these sessions, promoting ownership and involvement.
- Monthly Coffee Mornings – These gatherings at local schools will invite health and community services to share information and promote their offerings, creating a network of support for customers
- Volunteer Training – SPARK will provide training for adults and young leaders in essential areas such as Health and Safety, First Aid, and Food Health Safety, actively recruiting volunteers to support the various activities throughout the community.
- Men’s Support Group – A weekly group providing a safe space for men to meet, share experiences, and build friendships, addressing the challenges they may face.
- Community Champions – Customers will be engaged to become community champions, advocating for local needs and linking with existing steering groups to ensure that the community’s voice is heard.
With the support of the Great Places Resilience Fund, SPARK Oldham is set to make a significant impact on the lives of local customers.
