Rochdale’s Christmas Toy Appeal raised in Parliament

Rochdale MP Paul Waugh has brought Rochdale’s 'Giving Back' Christmas Toy Appeal to the attention of Parliament, urging action on the growing child poverty crisis.

His remarks highlighted the importance of the long-running campaign, which provides festive gifts to disadvantaged children, and prompted praise from Leader of the House of Commons Lucy Powell, who recognised the appeal’s vital role in supporting struggling families.

Organised by Rochdale Borough Council’s “Giving Back” charity, the appeal has become a local mainstay, helping families ensure that every child has a present to open on Christmas Day.

Last year, more than 6,000 toys were donated and distributed across Rochdale, providing holiday cheer to thousands of children. With nearly 50% of children in Rochdale now living in relative poverty, the appeal continues to serve as a critical source of support for families.

 

 

In Parliament, Mr Waugh noted the essential role the appeal plays in Rochdale, stating that: “Rochdale’s ‘Giving Back’ Christmas Toy Appeal ensures that children from disadvantaged backgrounds have a present to open on Christmas Day.” He added: “But with nearly half of children in Rochdale affected by poverty, a robust government child poverty strategy is essential to prevent children from going without – not just at Christmas, but all year round.”
 

Read more: Rochdale’s Christmas Toy Appeal returns to bring festive cheer to struggling familiesPublished: 13 November 2024

Lucy Powell, the Leader of the House, echoed Mr Waugh’s sentiments and extended her thanks to Rochdale Council staff and the appeal’s founder, Helen Walton, for their dedication to the campaign.

She expressed concern for children living in poverty, saying: “He is right; it is a shame on our country that so many children still live in poverty, without presents at Christmas and, in many cases, without food on the table.

"That is why we formed the child poverty taskforce. We are determined to reduce these inequalities and ensure that the scourge of child poverty is eradicated.”

 

 

The appeal, which has been supported by Rochdale Council employees since its inception, relies on community donations of new, unwrapped gifts suitable for children up to 16 years old. Donations can be left at collection points across Rochdale, including local libraries, YourTrust leisure centres, Rochdale Riverside, RRG Toyota on Edinburgh Way, and the Crown Oil Arena.

According to organisers, gifts for babies and teenagers are especially needed, as these age groups were underrepresented in past donations.

• The deadline for donations is Friday 13 December 2024.