Windfall a huge help for charity

A LOCAL charity that fights for the rights of people with learning disabilities has scooped a £39,000 grant.

Oldham Personal Advocacy (OPAL) has received the money to support its work to secure fair treatment for anyone with learning disabilities.

The money has come from the Lloyds TSB Foundation for England and Wales which awarded £137,000 to Oldham charities in 2008.

OPAL, which is based in Ashcroft Court, helps people to get their voices heard by those that plan and deliver services.

The charity also offers support for people facing immediate problems with issues such as housing, finance and its work brings significant benefits to the everyday lives of its clients.

The funding will support the ongoing costs of an advocate who is an existing member of the OPAL team.

In conjunction with additional funding from The Learning Disability Partnership Board in Oldham the charity will increase the number of people it works with by more than 25 per cent in 2009.

OPAL chief executive Camilla Guereca said: “We will now be able to provide support in a range of areas such as access to finance, housing, learning and support with health issues and independent living.

“It is one of the fundamental rights of all members of society to have their voice heard.

“With the appropriate advice and support, people with learning disabilities can gain access to services, achieve independence and make a huge difference to how public services are delivered in Oldham.”

If you would like to find out more about the work of Oldham Personal Advocacy please visit their website at www.opal-advocacy.org.uk or phone 0161 633 5544.