Family reaching out event at Rochdale Infirmary a huge success

The event, held at Rochdale Infirmary's Outpatients department, saw a strong turnout from the local community.

Colleagues from across Rochdale came together to host a summer Family Reaching Out Event, aimed at supporting families in need.

The event, held at Rochdale Infirmary's Outpatients department, saw a strong turnout from the local community.

The day featured free hot food, ice lollies, and a range of fun activities for children, including games, glitter tattoos, nail painting, a chance to hug the pug, and even an opportunity to meet Rochdale’s very own princess.

Attendees also had access to a wealth of free advice and support on topics such as healthy eating, exercise, water safety, and sun care, along with information about free activities available throughout the summer.

With the new school year fast approaching, families were able to pick up free school uniforms, stationery, and other essentials.

The event was fully funded by donations from hospital staff, system partners, the local community, and businesses, including Krol Corlett Construction, The Princess Party Experience, and Deeplish Community Centre. Contributions also came from local hairdressers Zoe, Emma, and Shannon.

The event was further supported by system partners, including Living Well, Healthwatch Rochdale, Rochdale Food Bank, Rochdale Carers, public health teams, volunteers, and colleagues from Rochdale Care Organisation and the Local Care Organisation.

Generous donations of sanitary and dental products were also provided by Asda and Tesco Rochdale to support the event.

Over 200 people and families in need attended the event, with around 25 staff members volunteering their time to help out on the night.

Organiser Jackie Heatley, assistant director of nursing at Rochdale Care Organisation, said: “It was great to welcome so many families and to see them benefitting from the advice and support being offered.

"It’s nice to be able to make a positive difference, to help those in most in need, especially in the run-up to children going back to school.

“A huge thank you to all our colleagues and local businesses who came together to support the event.

“The kind donations received were overwhelming. Seeing those less fortunate receive hot food, new school uniforms, toys, haircuts, wound care, and support for health and wellbeing was heart-warming, and demonstrated how committed our colleagues are to making sure children and members of our local community are provided for.”