First Choice Homes customer becomes the housing associations April Hidden Hero

Deborah Thornton SMCT and Tanisha Rigby FCHO

A First Choice Homes Oldham (FCHO) customer who helps run the Sholver Community Centre and takes part in local litter picks is the housing association’s April Hidden Hero.

Volunteer Debbie Thornton is the chair and bookings secretary of the centre. It is home to a host of local groups including FCHO’s The Bread and Butter Thing affordable food initiative.

The 52-year-old is regularly involved in community litter picks and is also a member of FCHO’s Customer Engagement Network where she shares her views and experiences to help shape services.

The mother-of-one from Sholver received her certificate and a £50 voucher at the community centre earlier this month.

“I’m over the moon to receive this and really grateful to First Choice Homes for giving it to me, it means a lot to be thought of,” she said.

“I do what I do because I want to make a difference in my community. Helping others genuinely brings me joy and right now it feels more important than ever to build a strong sense of community."

Miss Thornton was nominated for the award by FCHO customer involvement officer Tanisha Rigby.

“If you ask people in Sholver and Moorside what makes their community centre work so well, Debbie’s name often comes up,” she explained.

“She gives a huge amount of her time to helping the centre remain a welcoming place where people can meet, connect and support one another. 

“What makes Debbie a Hidden Hero is the dedication she shows to the people around her. She volunteers her time, supports local initiatives and helps create opportunities for neighbours to come together.”

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