Tireless Maria just can’t stop helping

A TIRELESS volunteer, who has helped hundreds of families and carers in the borough, has been nominated for a Pride in Oldham award.

Maria Aspin (pictured), from Watersheddings, has been chairman of the Oldham Support Group for the Carers in Autism (OSCA) for the past seven years.

Around 100 families are group members, with youngsters aged three to 20 enjoying regular get-togethers.

The group holds activities and days out for families during the school holidays, while regular drop-in sessions are held once a month for carers.

Former secretary Cathy Williams nominated her colleague, saying: “As well as caring for her own family, Maria is always there for everyone and is very supportive of families and members. She puts herself out there to make sure everyone has a good time. She is an all-round stalwart and central to the group.

“I don’t think members realise the amount of hard work that she does and how much goes on behind the scenes to put on days out and events.”

Maria, a mum-of-three whose son, Paul, has severe learning difficulties, traits of autism and is registered blind, was stunned to receive the nomination.

She said: “I’m proud to be nominated but it is a real team effort to keep the group going. I couldn’t do it without the whole team including, Cathy, and the treasurer Sharon Roscoe.

“I get so much satisfaction chairing the group and knowing that other families are benefiting from getting involved. It’s not just about the activities and fun days out, it’s making sure people are getting the right information, education and help, and that their voices are being heard.”