Local good causes come together in major fundraising initiative

Caitlin Hawkin, Coliseum; Clare Taylor, Action Oldham Fund; Claire Crossfield, Madhlo; Laura Tomlinson, Maggie’s; Michael Unsworth, Kingfisher School; Angela Higham, Dr Kershaw’s Hospice and Susan Pownell, Action Oldham Fund

Six organisations close to the heart of Oldhamers, have come together in a major fundraising initiative.

Based around the national celebration of 'Giving Tuesday' (November 28), Action Together, Dr Kershaw's Hospice, Kingfisher School, Maggie's, Mahdlo and Oldham Coliseum, are working collaboratively.

The joint work has received the support of the Stoller Charitable Trust.

Sir Norman Stoller said: "All six are working so hard for the good of the borough and the Trust will be happy to make sure every pound raised is doubled so that the good work can continue and Oldham thrive.”

'Give Local Oldham' will run throughout December and into January with a series of bucket collections and raffles.

During Give Local Oldham there are bucket collections planned at Tesco Huddersfield Road and Oldham Athletic whilst there will be collections right through the pantomime season at the Coliseum (...oh yes there will!).

The joint team is also running major raffles thanks to the generous support of staff at New Charter Housing and Oldham Council.

Joint working in the charity sector is certainly working for the good of Oldham and its people.

Examples of joint-working initiatives include Kingfisher School’s involvement with Mahdlo to improve and enhance its Ability Zone provision in a bid to increase participation of children with special needs.

Mahldo has also been working with Oldham Coliseum to inspire young people through the magic of theatre.

The Coliseum provides yearlong workshops for Mahdlo members, giving them the opportunity to learn new skills and explore different techniques, create and devise their own piece of theatre and perform on the Fairbottom Street theatre’s stage.

Kevin Shaw, the Chief Executive and Artistic Director at the Coliseum said: “Give Local is a fantastic opportunity to showcase work that truly benefits and changes the lives of the people of Oldham.

“We are proud to join in the fun and help to raise awareness – join us in helping change the future of our town.”

The cast of ‘Dick Whittington’, this year’s Coliseum pantomime, are dropping in on staff and patients at Dr Kershaw’s Hospice.

Bernie Byrne, centre head at Maggie’s, said she was particularly pleased that the collaborative work was a wonderful opportunity to come together to raise awareness of the amazing work whilst having some fun raising funds that all can share.