Heywood's Social Lounge opens its doors

Ryan Banks gets cooking at the Social Lounge with Colette Crookes from the council’s Learning Disabilities Service

A new youth centre for learning disabilities has opened its doors in Heywood.

The ‘Social Lounge’ aims to be a place for people with learning disabilities to meet and have fun.

The lounge offers Wii games, table tennis, pool and a place to have lunch and relax with friends.

There are also plans to expand activities further and open in the evenings and weekends.

Christine Knox who uses learning disability services at Stamford Street said:
“It’s really good. I like the food and meeting people. People can play table tennis, pool and play on the Wii - I want to have a go on the fitness board.”

Rochdale Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care, Councillor Robert Clegg said: “This is a major boost for people with learning disabilities and their families as we continue to develop a range of flexible, accessible services that are attractive, welcoming and build on the support local community services offer.”

The Social Lounge will also be run by the people who use it.

Ryan Banks is one of five volunteers expanding their culinary and business skills by helping to run the Social Lounge café on weekdays.

Mr Banks said: “I’m doing an NVQ in catering and love making bread and curries. Volunteering here will be a big help towards my main goal which is to get a job in future.”

The Social Lounge is currently open Monday to Friday 9.30am until 4pm.