Jodie’s got the magic touch

Brimming with enthusiasm... Jodie Barber

Pride in Oldham
A WOMAN whose enthusiasm, passion and belief inspires young people, has been nominated for a Pride in Oldham award.

Jodie Barber from Greenacres, works at Union Street’s youth centre for Oldham Council’s integrated youth services.

Her official job title is senior empowerment and participation manager, but to youngsters she is a therapist, secretary, personal assistant, surrogate mum and friend.

When Becca Dale, a member of the youth council, lost her younger brother in a car accident, Jodie supported each member of the group and it was with her support that the Every Life Matters Campaign, begun.

She has been nominated for her outstanding contribution to young people and developing community cohesion in Oldham.

Her boss, Debbie Lyons told us that she is a fantastic worker and is dedicated to the cause that she believes in.

She said: “She’s a great role model for young people — a real inspiration.”

Oldham’s youth mayor Chantel Birtwistle, who nominated Jodie for the award said: “Jodie is the knight in shining armour for her young people, who might be worried, scared, upset, and have no-one to turn to, but they always know that Jodie is there whenever we need her.

“Jodie is an incredible woman with this amazing ability to tell what mood you’re in as soon as you walk in the room.

“It makes her the incredible youth worker she is.

“Nothing we say is ever going to be enough to express how grateful we are to Jodie, but we hope that if she’s nominated or even wins this award, it will be big step in helping us get there.”

Jodie, who has worked with young people for 15 years, said she was “gobsmacked” to be nominated.

“I’ve just been doing my job and I love it. I get satisfaction from it every single day when I see what these young people achieve.

“I’m moved to be nominated.”