Be a volunteer and make someone’s day

People from across the borough with big hearts and some time to spare are being asked to sign up for a new voluntary scheme, aimed at supporting children and young people with disabilities.

Rochdale Council is on the look out for volunteers for their ‘Befriending Scheme’, which enables children aged between 8 and 19 to be accompanied on a wide range of activities. These could include evening classes, swimming lessons, trips to social events or joining an activity club.

Launching in the New Year, the Befriending Scheme will be a voluntary service, but helpers will be paid for expenses incurred. Anyone over the age of 18 can apply and full training will be given. The council is looking for people with a couple of hours to spare on a regular basis during the week, at weekends or in school holidays.

Councillor Irene Davidson, cabinet member for children, schools and families, said: “Local volunteers play a very important role helping shape the lives of young people in our borough and this is another valuable way that you can get involved and make a difference to a child’s life. We’re looking for people who can support and encourage our young people to lead as normal a lifestyle as possible – as well as making a really important contribution to others, it’s also likely to be a rewarding experience for yourself.”

If you would like to volunteer call 01706 646760 for more information and an application form.

A regular drop-in session for parents and carers of disabled children will also be held from January for anyone who finds it difficult to make time for themselves. The session will be held at the Carers’ Resource centre on Water Street, Rochdale, between 11am and 1pm on the last Friday of every month. Organisers promise lots of topical information, health checks and pampering sessions! A light lunch will also be served.