Jigsaw’s Neighbourhood Engagement Team hosted a range of fun-filled activities for families in our communities over the half-term holidays.
In Ashton, Officer Minaz Aslam organised a week of activities for local children with Lindley Education Trust.
Children got stuck into arts and sports classes, swimming sessions, cycle track and a visit to Jumparooz inflatable park. They were also treated to a tasty pizza lunch at Ashton Grill.
Officer Joanne Shaw teamed up with Marie Clegg, Jigsaw’s Neighbourhood Plans Administrator, and organised half-term craft sessions at the Oldham Community Grocers.
Children took part in autumn themed crafts, making their own light up lanterns alongside mini autumn wreaths and pebble art. All those who attended also received a free lunch to help combat holiday hunger.
Resident Rose Akhter commented: “I am so grateful for the sessions you provide in the school holidays when money is very tight, my sons have had a great time.”
Officer Gemma Batchelor partnered up with Rainbow Surprise and Manchester Active to deliver a week of activities for local children in Crumpsall.
Around 50 children attended each session at Crumpsall Lane Primary School, taking part in sports, LEGO, games, Halloween crafts with food provided.
Gemma also worked in partnership with Communities for All and local organisations to support the North Manchester Health Fair at Khizra Mosque in Cheetham Hill.
Around 200 people attended the event which offered a range of free health and wellbeing activities, including children’s activities, sports sessions, health checks and healthy cooking demonstrations. The event helped bring local families together while promoting healthy lifestyles and community wellbeing.
At the Buttermere Community Centre in Chorley, Officer Tracy Townson hosted a holiday hunger event with Chorley Buddies to help families struggling with the cost of groceries over the holidays, and the team handed out 25 packed lunches.
Tracy also organised a cost-of-living event at Coppull Library, providing a tasty lunch of chickpea curry and handing out £10 vouchers for a local zero waste shop and winter warmer packs to residents.
Over 30 people attended the event, which was supported by Cllr Julia Berry, Jigsaw volunteer Chris Tayor and other organisations including Chorley Buddies, Chorley Council, Debt Crises and Advice team, Credit Union and Lancashire Council.
The local knit and natter group also knitted and crocheted hats, scarves, gloves and blankets to those who attended, while partner agencies delivered useful advice to residents around managing the cost of living, particularly over the winter months.
