Sparth Community Centre awarded £3,240 in National Lottery funding

Sparth Community Centre, Rochdale

Sparth Community Centre is celebrating after being awarded £3,240 in National Lottery funding to support its work with promoting the teaching of English as a second language among women in the local community.

The community centre, located on Norman Road, Rochdale, will use the cash to re-open its popular ‘Let’s Learn’ class, which funding cuts forced to close in March of this year.

The class focuses on teaching English as a second language, but also incorporates social issues and fun activities that promote the health and wellbeing of the participants, increase their confidence, skills and self-belief, and enable them to better integrate into the local, multi-cultural community.

The new funding from The National Lottery Community Fund, which distributes money raised by National Lottery players for good causes and is the largest community fund in the UK, will see one ‘Let’s Learn’ class every week, including an exercise session, for up to 15 learners.

Craig Halstead, the community centre’s manager, said: “We’re delighted that The National Lottery Community Fund has recognised our work in this way.

“Now, thanks to National Lottery players, we will be able to re-open our ‘Let’s Learn’ Class in September.

“As well as improving their spoken and written English, together with their tutor and guest speakers, learners will explore issues that affect their daily lives, issues such as healthy eating, diabetes, stroke awareness, heart disease, cancer awareness, first aid and safety in the home, and will have the opportunity to take part in a weekly exercise session.”