Young people involved in our Oldham Co-operative (ad)Venture project have launched an appeal for messages of support to be given out alongside care packages this festive season. The project supports young people aged 16 - 30 with disabilities, learning difficulties and autism to make a difference in their community, and collectively they decided to use the opportunity to spread messages of hope across the borough. 

The scheme, made possible through the Workers Educational Authority (WEA) ESF Community Grants 2019 – 2021 fund, has seen four young people take part in the first cohort, with all sessions held online and a focus on developing the confidence and skills of all those who take part.

Messages of support

The pandemic has sadly meant that the social action which normally forms a large part of the project couldn't take place in person, however all the young people felt that sharing messages with care packages would provide a welcome uplift to all those who may have fallen on difficult times. The messages will accompany packages set to be distributed by The Bread and Butter Thing, who are a charity that makes life affordable for people on low incomes.

Pip Sayers, Associate Project Co-ordinator said:

Throughout the entire project, all the young people have expressed a passion for supporting those most in need within their community. Through spreading messages of support and solidarity this Christmas they're hoping to bring joy to anyone who's finding things difficult right now.

How you can join in 

You can submit a supportive message of your own, such as a Christmas card, handwritten letter or a simple email by contacting [email protected]. The deadline for submissions is Monday 21 December.

Be part of the next cohort

Would you like to be part of the next cohort of young people, or know someone who'd be interested? Then you're in luck, as applications are now open! Visit our dedicated webpage to find out more.

Find out more about Co-operative (ad)Venture Oldham