Community gathers for celebration in Busk area of Chadderton

FCHO colleagues, with Zakir Ahmad, Cllr Taylor and colleagues from Mahdlo and Action Together

First Choice Homes Oldham (FCHO) has funded a community celebration to mark a successful series of events throughout August in the Busk area of Chadderton.

The housing association has been working with groups like Oldham Play Action Group, Action Together and the council in a bid to foster pride in the area and deter anti-social behaviour.

The first event was a litter pick followed by summer play sessions, delivered by Oldham Play Action Group and funded by FCHO that offered sports, arts and crafts, and family activities throughout August. 

FCHO then donated £500 for the celebration this Thursday on Kempton Way and Newbury Walk that was attended by councillor Eliane Taylor and the chief executive of the local Yuvanis Foundation, Zakir Ahmad.

FCHO director of asset investment delivery Laura Branthwaite said: “Days like this are a great way to celebrate some real improvements in community spirit in Busk.

“But the work we are doing in partnership is long-term and about so much more than a clean-up or a single activity.

"It is about building pride, trust and stronger connections within our neighbourhoods by working together with community groups and residents to create safe, welcoming places to live. 

"By investing in community-led initiatives, FCHO not only tackling issues like anti-social behaviour head on but also giving families and young people the chance to thrive in vibrant, supportive communities.”

Mr Ahmad added: “I grew up in this community and I’m heavily invested in the area, as my family are still based here.

“Events like this are important to bring the community together.

"Neighbours on the same street don’t often know each other in areas like this, so activities and days such as this create a platform to bring people together, make meaningful connections and get children involved with positive activities.”

FCHO’s ASB team will continue the work into the autumn and winter by addressing rough sleeping and drug-related concerns its customers have reported in the area, Mrs Branthwaite explained.

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