Special-needs playgroup a close-knit community

play leaders Sue Jones, Kath Humphries and chairman Liz Brocklehurst with youngsters at the group

OVER 40 years of providing help for tots with special needs has seen a charity scoop a Pride In Oldham nomination.

The Saddleworth Special Needs playgroup is based in Cooper Street, Springhead, and meets mornings, Monday to Thursday.

Originally funded by the Saddleworth Women’s Institute it has since relied on donations and local generosity to stay operating.

Sue Jones, who has been a playgroup leader for 30 years, said: “To be nominated just proves that our service is still needed.

“The children are so young and many families are just coming to terms with a diagnosis that can feel really isolating.

“We’re all about providing respite, information and support for the families.”

Fears were raised earlier this year when the NHS decided to sell off the building that houses the group, but it has since found alternative premises in Lydgate.

The group, which operates as a registered charity, always has a waiting list and takes youngsters with and without special needs.

With four members of staff, nine trustees and a wealth of willing locals ready to give up their time, it is a close-knit community that has blossomed with time.

Sue added: “We’ve had such a wonderful band of volunteers over the years, including mums who have been looking for something to do and have stayed for years. We have such a lovely atmosphere at the group.

“The volunteers are so important — we couldn’t succeed without them.

“This nomination is partly down to them and I’m so pleased they have been recognised.”