All That gets go-ahead

YOUNG Oldhamers are to get their own magazine thanks to the National Lottery.

All That magazine, previously a series of pilot releases, will receive an official launch in February following funding from the Lottery for a year’s worth of free issues. The magazine will continue to be written by young Oldhamers.

Helen Bullough, Big Lottery Fund head of North-West region, said, “We were delighted to award nearly £10,000 towards the training of volunteers to support the launch of All That magazine.

Our funding will help the volunteers provide reporting workshops to young journalists in the community. One of the key aims of the Big Lottery Fund is to build stronger communities — local newspapers and magazines are vital in maintaining and improving community spirit.”

Groundwork’s Volunteer Project Assistant scheme - which allows graduates to get experience within sectors of regeneration - will be sending volunteers to local schools and youth centres to encourage teenagers and young adults to contribute to the magazine. Editorial training is provided by the Chronicle, the magazine’s base.

Gemma Russell, education and communities project officer at Groundwork Oldham and Rochdale, said: “Groundwork Oldham and Rochdale is working in partnership with the Oldham Evening Chronicle to provide voluntary media and journalism experience to young people from the local area.

“All That magazine is written by and for local young people and the production is co-ordinated by these volunteers. It’s a great partnership and a number of the past volunteers have gone on to exciting jobs.

“We would urge local young people to get involved and other organisations to support All That in any way they can.”

The magazine is supported by a wide range of youth organisations across the borough, including Oldham Youth Council.

If you are a teenager or young adult interested in contributing, contact the editorial team on 633 2121, or by email ( schools@oldham-chronicle.co.uk ).

You can also follow the team on Twitter, @AllThatMagazine, for updates and progress.