ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 1st January 1970 ) By - gramcin (Registered User)

Outreach Locations

Here is a list of Outreach Locations for your Stepping Stones advisers

CHEETHAM HILL Jobcentre Plus Office - Natalie Gill
36 Crescent Road
Cheetham Hill
Manchester

Opening Times:
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm
Wednesday 10:00am to 5:00pm

Please call in or telephone us on 0161 253 8740 or 07891 682660

FULMEAD Sure Start Centre – Natalie Gill
Off Waterloo Road
Cheetham Hill
Manchester

Opening Times:
Thursday 10:00am to 12:00noon

Please call in or telephone us on 07891 682660

NEWTON HEATH Jobcentre Plus Office - Ruth Penter
1009 Oldham Road
Newton Heath
M40 2EP

Opening Times:
Mon to Fri

Please call in or telephone us on 0161 253 2867

MILES PLATTING LIBRARY - Wendy Turnbull, Rita Moloney
Miles Platting Library
Varley Street
Miles Platting
MANCHESTER
M40 8EE

Opening Times:
Tuesday 10:00am - 4:00pm

FAST JOBNET, CHEETHAM HILL ROAD - Danny Gibbs
Fastjobnet
389 Waterloo Road
Cheetham Hill
Manchester
M8 9AB

Opening Times:
There is an outreach facility available very Wednesday afternoon if required.

Phone to make an appointment 0161 740 3399

CHEETHAM OPPORTUNITIES - Danny Gibbs
Cheetham Opportunity Centre
Cheetham Hill shopping parade,
Cheetham Hill M8 5DP

Opening Times:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 9:00am – 5:00pm
Wednesday 10:30am – 5:00pm
Friday 9:00am – 4:00pm
Phone to make an appointment 0161 720 8268

FOUTAIN STREET JOBCENTRE PLUS - Danny Gibbs
Fountain Street
Manchester

Opening Times:
Friday 10am till 1pm

Interested clients can book an appointment with the staff at the jobcentre or
Tel: 0789 1682670

STEPPING STONES SHOP, HARPURHEY - Garry Murry, Trevor Hawitt, Gemma Armstrong
311 Moston Lane
Harpurhey

Opening Times:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 9:00am – 5:00pm
Wednesday 10:30am – 5:00pm
Friday 9:00am – 4:00pm

STEP AHEAD, BESWICK PRECINCT - Julia Molloy, Shahid Ramzan, Jon Pritchard
Step Ahead
25-27 Stilton Drive
Beswick
Manchester
M11 3SB
Opening times:
Monday - Thursday 9.00am - 5.00pm
Friday 9.00am - 4.30pm
Please call in or telephone us on 0161 223 4213
INTENSIVE SUPPORT PROJECT, CUTHBERT CENTRE OPENSHAW - Mandy Fahey
Unit 1, The cuthbert Centre
877 Ashton Old Road,
Openshaw,
Manchester,
M11 2NA

Opening times:
Monday – Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 4.30pm

Please call in or telephone us on 0161 231 0165 / 0440

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 1st January 1970 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

Parent Poetry

You Helped Me

You helped me through when life was tough
When finally babe I'd had enough
You helped me escape when I was in pain
You gave me the chance to start again

Thank you babe for all you have done
For showing me that life can be fun
You helped me achieve my one true dream
I know together we make a good team

Thank you my love for saving me
Just being there you set me free
When I was feeling hurt and blue
You were the one who saw me through

I love you dearly you're my best friend
With you beside me I know I'll mend
Your character is gentle, loving and mild
Our love is strong even now we have a child

Written by Pamela Carter.
Surestart Cheetham Parent.

Michelle

ReplyReply Posted: (Tuesday 14th December 2004 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

Have Your Say

Let us know your views and opinions on Stepping Stones and the services they offer.

* Did you get the help you needed
* Are the staff helpful
* Did you get help with your CV and Job interview preparation
* Was your benefit affected
* Was the training useful
* Did you feel comfortable entering the Stepping Stones office

Michelle

ReplyReply Posted: (Tuesday 14th December 2004 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

Is public transport access to health services good

North Manchester Patient and Public Involvement Forum have recently met with Cllr Roger Jones, Chairman, GMPTE to discuss concerns on access to public transport for the local community that have to travel across the city of Manchester to hospital appointments and attend health services. The Forum are due to meet the Chairman again and would like to raise your concerns to the Chairman directly. Do you have a burning concern or question on access to public transport to attend a hospital appointment - if so call 0845 601 8074 (local rate charge) or email ppi_forum@btconnect.com. Many thanks and the Forum looks foward to hearing from you, Val Bayliss-Brideaux, PPI Forum Co-ordinator.

ReplyReply Posted: (Tuesday 14th December 2004 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

Stop Junk Mail coming through your letterbox!

If, like me, you are inundated with useless, irrelevant and irritating piles of unsolicited mail on your doormat day after day you CAN do something about it!

Go to this website and get yourself on the Mail Preference Service list. You do need to re-register after a while (a year or so - you\'ll know when the time comes as your mat will start filling up again!)
www.mps-online.org.uk

ReplyReply Posted: (Tuesday 14th December 2004 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

PPI Forums in Manchester

Since the 1st December 2003, Patient and Public Involvement Forums have been set up for each PCT and NHS Trust in Manchester and have already recruited members and started to meet.

Why get involved? To make a difference locally.

Forum members will play a vital role in making sure patients'and the publics' views are heard and acted on by all those involved in making decisions about health.

Are you interested? Please contact PPIH, Black Health Agency, Gaddum House, 6 Great Jackson Street, Manchester, M15 4AX for an application pack or call 0161 214 3909.

ReplyReply Posted: (Tuesday 14th December 2004 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

Health Issues Hotline - 0845 601 8047

Manchester Patient and Public Involvement in Health Forums would like to hear your views about health and health services in your area.
Do you want to share a good experience of a health service in Manchester? Is there a service in your community that you feel should be offered to other patients in Manchester? Do you wait too long for an appointment? Do you know who to talk to if you have a concern or complaint? How do you feel about the health of your local community and what can be done to improve it? Do you have a concern or complaint that you would like to share? Would you like to be involved in the work of the forums in Manchester?
You do not have to give us your details but if you would like us to contact you about an issue, please leave your name, phone number, address or email address at the end of your message.
The 8 Manchester Patient and Public Involvement Forums are independent and aim to bring the views of local people to the heart of health service decision-making, and help ensure that people have equal access to health services.

BHA/PPI Team, Gaddum House, 6 Great Jackson Street, Manchester, M15 4AX Email: ppi_forum@btconnect.com

ReplyReply Posted: (Tuesday 14th December 2004 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

Manchester Health Authority

The Manchester Health Authority websitewww.manchesterhealth.co.uk includes useful information about existing and proposed health services for Manchester. Worth keeping an eye on for public consultations so that you can have your say about how the community health needs are served.

ReplyReply Posted: (Wednesday 15th December 2004 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

New Site!

Welcome to the newly designed mpac community portal site.

Please let us know your thoughts on the site ie: design, navigation, content, colour etc.

Thank you for taking the time to reply.

Michelle

ReplyReply Posted: (Wednesday 15th December 2004 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

Regeneration in HLM?

Does anyone have any up to date information on the regeneration projects going on in the HLM area?

If you do, please post them up here.

Kind Regards

Michelle

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 16th December 2004 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

Herbie Rides Again?

Herbie the community mobile fruit and vegetable van, is once again bringing healthy treats to people of Miles Platting and Ancoats.

For more information about the van and the services it will be offering contact MERCi on 0161 273 1736.

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 16th December 2004 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

Stepping Stone Project

Offer support and guidance for anyone in receipt of incapacity related benefit. Advice and guidance available at Miles Platting library every Tuesday 10.00 to 4.00 pm or at Newton heath Jobcentre on a daily basis.

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 16th December 2004 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

Victim Support

Victim Support and Witness Service Greater Manchester helps people, who have, through no fault of their own, fallen victim to or witnessed a crime.

For further information, please ring the area office on 0161 727 1376 or email admin@victimsupport-gm.co.uk

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 16th December 2004 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

Public Transport Access to Health Services

North Manchester Patient and Public Involvement Forum have recently met with Cllr Roger Jones, Chairman, GMPTE to discuss concerns on access to public transport for the local community that have to travel across the city of Manchester to hospital appointments and attend health services. The Forum are due to meet the Chairman again and would like to raise your concerns to the Chairman directly. Do you have a burning concern or question on access to public transport to attend a hospital appointment - if so call 0845 601 8074 (local rate charge) or email ppi_forum@btconnect.com. Many thanks and the Forum looks foward to hearing from you, Val Bayliss-Brideaux, PPI Forum Co-ordinator.

ReplyReply Posted: (Wednesday 19th January 2005 ) By - gary2 (Registered User)

looks good

The new site looks really good and is much easier to use. well done. Just wondering where all the audio content went ?

Gary

ReplyReply Posted: (Wednesday 19th January 2005 ) By - gary2 (Registered User)

ICT training

I am interested in doing some training on PC's. Any idea on where I can go in Miles Platting. I know there is Victoria Mill but I prefer something a bit less formal.

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 17th February 2005 ) By - lindygra (Registered User)

What Can Stepping Stones do for me ?

What Can Stepping Stones do for me ?

what services do they have ?

how can they help ?

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 17th February 2005 ) By - gramcin (Registered User)

Background to Stepping Stones

The project is an exciting opportunity for the residents of Manchester. It is funded by Manchester City Council via Neighbourhood Renewal Funding and aims to bring work focused assistance to Manchester residents who are not working currently because of sickness or disability. There is currently no mainstream funding available to this group of people beyond the initial work focused interview when a new claim is made.

The project is managed by Job Centre Plus and delivered in partnership with the Employment Regeneration Partnership (ERP). It employs a large team of personal advisers to offer help through training advice, motivation and other routes to help customers to move into or closer to work. Supporting this activity is an extensive marketing campaign and solid efforts to make links with many partners who touch the lives of this group.

Graeme

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 17th February 2005 ) By - gramcin (Registered User)

Steps into work

These are the steps taken to help you into work !!!

* One to one confidential personal advise, conducted in professional yet informal setting, where you can discuss your issues

* Financial support to help you back into work and training

* Ongoing support. Our advisers will visit you in work or training if you wish and keep in touch so that if any unforeseen problems arise once you start work we are still there to help

* Support with learning, for occupationally related and other courses. If you feel you're not quite ready to take up formal training, why not try a taster workshop first, which will help boost your confidence before you move on

* Lots of free training opportunities

* Help with basic and key skills

* Fast Track access to "New Deal" for Disabled People

* Help to liaise with other agencies where appropriate on your behalf. These could be things like speaking to potential employers, sorting medical issues, debt or housing

* Help with childcare

* Bonus payment when you have worked for 13 weeks in a fulltime job

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 17th February 2005 ) By - gramcin (Registered User)

Guidance on permitted work

If you are receiving any of the following benefits below then here are some guidance notes that are taken from the Stepping Stones publicity.

For individual cases, I suggest you contact your local adviser

Benefits:

* Incapacity Benefit
* Severe Disablement Allowance
* National Insurance Credits due to incapacity
* Income Support due to incapacity

If you are working on the benefits mentioned, you may be able to:

* Work for less than 16 hours a week and earn up to £78 each week for a fixed period of 26 weeks (This amount applies from October 2004 & changes in October each year)

Extend this for a further 26 weeks if you are working with:

* A Job Broker
* Disability Employment Adviser
* If you provide evidence suggesting that the work that you are undertaking will lead to an improvement in your ability to engage in work of 16 hours or more each week

How will permitted work affect my benefit entitlement ?

General Rule:

It will not affect:

* Incapacity Benefit
* Severe Disablement Allowance
* National Insurance Credits
* Disability Living Allowance

It Will affect:

* Income Support
* Housing Benefit
* Council Tax Benefit

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 17th February 2005 ) By - gramcin (Registered User)

Frequently Ask Questions (FAQs)

The Forum on Stepping Stones will soon be moderated by Stepping Stones Advisers, this will be your chance to ask for information without having to contact Stepping Stones personally through fear of loosing your benefit.

Hopefully this will enable you to explore the opportunities of Stepping Stones and dismiss any fears you have before coming to see us

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 24th February 2005 ) By - gramcin (Registered User)

Websites: Stepping Stones & Benefits

Stepping Stones

Helping Manchester Residents who are unemployed through sickness or disability back into work

New interactive website coming soon

http://www.steppingstonesintowork.info/

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 24th February 2005 ) By - gramcin (Registered User)

Disability Living Allowance: are you missing out?

You don't have to be 'disabled' to claim disability living allowance !!!

Disability living allowance (DLA) can make a big difference to people's lives. Receiving DLA can lead to additional payments of benefits such as income support housing benefit, council tax benefit and tax credits. If someone provides care for you, your award of DLA may also entitle them to claim carer's allowance. In addition, DLA is tax free and you can spend it on anything you want. Yet the government have estimated that fewer than half of all those who are eligible actually claim. Why should that be?
One problem is the name. Many people with MS, for example, don't consider themselves to be 'disabled' and so never consider claiming DLA. In fact, you don't need to be disabled. Thousands of people with long-term health conditions get DLA simply because peeling vegetables is often difficult or painful for them. Other common misconceptions are that you can't get DLA if you work, claim other benefits, have savings or haven't paid national insurance contributions. In reality, none of these things matter.
So, if you're under 65 and your MS affects your day-to-day life, it's worth looking into whether you could make a claim. (People of 65 or over can claim a similar benefit called attendance allowance).
Could you be eligible?
If you think you might be eligible, you can get a claim pack by calling the Benefits Enquiry line on 0800 882 200.
Help with your claim
The claim pack is a dispiriting 37 pages long. But, if you have access to the internet, you can download and print off a very detailed guide to filling it in fromwww.benefitsandwork.co.uk . The guide also tells you more about how the qualifying conditions work.
In addition, there are more than two thousand advice agencies around the UK who may be able to help with form filling.
These include:
* Citizens Advice Bureau. To find out your nearest CAB, check your local phone book under 'C' or visitwww.nacab.org.uk
* Disability Information Advice Lines (DIAL's), staffed by disabled people. Call 01302 310 123 or visitwww.dialuk.org.uk to find out if there's a DIAL near you.
* · Independent Advice Centres. You can get information about local centres from UK Advice on 0207 489 1800.
* There may be someone at your local MS Society branch who can help with form filling and, in addition, share their experiences of claiming DLA with you. If you need branch details, telephone the MS National Centre on 020 8438 0700. A local branch might also help with the emotional side as the whole process of claiming DLA can be lengthy and depressing, with no guarantee of success at the end of it.
* MS Helpline. The Disability Rights Officer may also be able to help.
Making your case
When you're filling it in, try to give as much detail as possible. Don't just say 'I get very tired.' Instead, explain what the fatigue feels like, how long it lasts and how long you need to rest in order to recover. Try to give examples of when you've had problems, e.g. when you overdid something and your health suffered as a result. Also try to suggest a way in which someone could help: 'If someone was with me they could help me wash my back / pull on my underwear, socks and trousers / help me up out of chairs.'
If you can get a letter of support from a health professional such as your GP, neurologist or MS nurse, this can make a big difference. It's important to keep your GP and / or MS nurse up to date with your condition. Letters about the difficulties you face written by your partner, friends, relatives, neighbours or work colleagues can also help.
It may take several months before you get a decision on your claim. If you're not happy with the result you can appeal against it. But do bear in mind that your award can be reduced or taken away altogether at an appeal, so get advice. Your chances of success, however, are good: more than 50 per cent of all oral hearings end up with the claimant winning a higher award of DLA.

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 3rd March 2005 ) By - maryb (Registered User)

Manchester Fort Shopping Centre

Im Parent With Three Children . I find it really dangerous for me and my children to cross the road and car park as the pavement are very narrow.

why is there no cash machine ?

why the cafe is small and can they extend the hours ?

do other parents face the same problems as i do. please post your reply here.

maryb

ReplyReply Posted: (Friday 8th April 2005 ) By - gramcin (Registered User)

Unemployed Residents in East Manchester

We are a company that have just secured a new contract specifically aimed at Unemployed residents within East Manchester. The contract is to deliver a job-brokerage service within the local community.

This means that we have Employers with vacancies across Manchester - that are to be filled solely with Unemployed residents with post codes across East Manchester - and we are now in a position to market our service.

We will be assessing each candidates level of employability, and place those that are job-ready and those that are not we will refer them to other colleagues within our organisation for any training requirements - after which they will be re-directed to ourselves for placements with employers.

We will also be offering classes such as Interview techniques, C.V. preparation, to name a few. Also there will be support and guidance on hand to find the right job.

The residents can either attend our drop-in centre based at 1319 Ashton Old Road, or meet us at one of the local centres - which we hope one to be yourselves.

This is a totally free service to the residents within East Manchester.

Mr Andrew Suddons
Employment and Regeneration Partnership
The Workshop
6-10 Hanover Street
Manchester
M4 4AH.

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 28th April 2005 ) By - paulc (Registered User)

Have your say in health issue!

Patient and Public Involvement Forums are the best way to have an influence in the way your local health service is provided.

There are PPI Forums for every NHS Trust in England and, although Forums are completely independant of the NHS, they play an active role in health related decision making within their communities.

Typical tasks include: obtaining views from the local community about health services, monitoring the effectiveness of local health services and influencing decision making by providing recommendations on local health issues.

If you would like to find out more information or apply to become a member, please call the Commission of Patient and Public Involvement in Health on 0845 120 7111 or visit www.cppih.org

ReplyReply Posted: (Wednesday 18th May 2005 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

North West Planning Aid

Planning and development in towns and cities affects everyone who lives and works in them, from the building of major retail and housing developments to the refurbishment of a local playground. But if faced with a planning issue or problem many people would not know where to start due to uncertainty or unfamiliarity with the planning system, procedures, legislation etc. North West Planning Aid can offer free, independent town planning advice to people and groups who need support but cannot afford to pay a planning consultant.

A key aim of Planning Aid is to build people's knowledge and confidence with the planning system so that they are better prepared to deal with future issues.

More than ever before, local people and communities are being consulted by Local Authorities and other bodies on planning and development in their areas. Their Community Planning programme helps communities to understand and play a role in the planning process, particularly on issues affecting local areas and neighbourhoods.

Their Community Planner and Volunteers can simply give advice to groups or can get involved in designing and delivering a wide range of practical activities to help them improve their areas.

Key elements of the Community Planning programme include:
* Running information events and presentations aimed at helping people understand the planning system.
* Helping communities to develop their ideas for regenerating their neighbourhoods.
* Educational projects with school children and young people.

To find out more call the Advice Line on 0870 850 9804, email nwco@planningaid.rtpi.org.uk or go towww.planningaid.rtpi.org.uk

ReplyReply Posted: (Tuesday 31st May 2005 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

Reduce Crime - Call the Police

If you have any information which might help the police continue to reduce crime in North Manchester. Please use the following telephone numbers:

Charlestown and Higher Blackley
Inspector Mark Hamilton
Tel: 0161 856 4028

Moston and Harpurhey
Inspector Ron Orr
Tel: 0161 856 4502

Crumpsall and Cheetham
Inspector Julian Snowball
Tel: 0161 856 3925

Or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

ALL CALLS ARE FREE

Michelle

ReplyReply Posted: (Wednesday 1st June 2005 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

PROJECT IN PARTNERSHIP

What happens when a referral is received?
Once a referral has been received, support staff will arrange to meet with the person referred to carry out an assessment of their needs and provide them with more information about the service. Should their needs meet the criteria of the service, support will be offered and an indication of when it is likely to commence.

Referral forms can be obtained by contacting our office at the address below.

Other services provided by People First
People First also provide floating support services for people with mental health issues in Manchester; for homeless families and single people in Tameside, Asian women with mental health issues living in Rochdale, and “young people at risk” Vale Royal. For more information contact the head office at the address below.

What is Supporting People?
Supporting People is a Government Initiative aimed at enabling people with housing related support needs to live independently in the community. It offers vulnerable people the opportunity to improve their quality of life by providing positive services, which enable them to have greater independence and control in making choices within their lives.


People First Housing Association
179 Royce Road, Hulme, Manchester M15 5TJ
Tel: 0161 226 1917, Fax: 0161 232 8422

Email: admin@peoplefirsthousing.co.uk

ReplyReply Posted: (Tuesday 21st June 2005 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

Any regeneration plans for Burnage?

Hi

Does any know if any regeneration work is being carried out in the Burnage area?

Michelle

ReplyReply Posted: (Tuesday 28th June 2005 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

Does anyone....

have any local history information they would like to share with us on this forum.

You may wish to post up memories of the old days with us. It could be anything from the War to simply playing in the streets of Gorton.

Local history is always an interesting read and people of all ages can share their experiences here.

Michelle

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 30th June 2005 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

Starfish

Health Cooking:
Demonstrations and basic practical sessions preparing nutritious, inexpensive and tasty meals.

Health Eating:
Interactive and motivational workshops fpr changing diets, and understanding and improving health.

Creative Art & Ikebana:
Explore new, artistic and cross-cultural ideas.. discover the natural environment.

Literacy & Numeracy:
Reading, writing, arithmetic and communication skills.

We work with all groups of all ages if you would like more information or to book a workshop please get in touch with us at Starfish, PO Box 430, Lancashire, PR6 8WR. tel: 0771 511 2880 emails: starfishonline@btinternet.com

Michelle

ReplyReply Posted: (Monday 11th July 2005 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

Community Channel Viewers Press Red to Volunteer

Television viewers will be able to donate their time without leaving their sofas in a new Community Channel service. Launched to mark the Year of the Volunteer, the service enables digital satellite viewers in the UK to press the red button while watching the Community Channel and enter a menu that lets them search for volunteering opportunities in their locality. All viewers need to do is punch in their postcode and the results will appear on their TV screens.
The database of volunteering opportunities behind the interactive TV application is powered by http://www.do-it.org.uk, a service managed by leading online charity YouthNet.

ReplyReply Posted: (Monday 11th July 2005 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

St. John Ambulance Greater Manchester

We need leaders for the development of our young people.
They are the future of our organisation
Could you help a young person achieve more? Do you want to achieve more? Can you find some spare time to have some fun?
We have young people who need leaders NOW!
Our young people start from the age of 5 years old
Contact us by writing to :-
The Principle Youth Officer. St. John Ambulance. St. John House Egerton Rd. Fallowfield. Manchester M14 6XX. Or e-mail: ACC-Youth@gman.sja.org.uk
We will then invite you to an open evening to discuss your and our future together.

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 14th July 2005 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

Volunteers from the Refugee/Asylum Seeker Community Wanted

HARP Community Engagement Pilot is looking for volunteers from the refugee/asylum seeker community to become involved in researching the mental health needs of their community.

This is an exciting opportunity to:
* Be involved in a pilot of national significance
* Train as a researcher in mental health and research
* Gain an optional university qualification
* Ensure your community has the opportunity to influence mental health provision in Manchester
* Identify the needs of your community and report them to a wide range of people who are planning services around health and social care.
* Be supported by HARP

If you are interested and available to start soon, please contact Elaine Dixon, Harp Service Manager on tel: 0161 232 6200, mobile: 07764 942094 or email: harpedixon@aol.com

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 14th July 2005 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

Green Streets

Would you like to green your street?Through street trees, hanging baskets,
planters and environmental art your street can be transformed into a
healthy, vibrant and green place. Green Streets a Red Rose Forest initiative
can help you achieve these through working with you or your community group
to:
o Consult with local residents and raise support for your scheme
o Secure funding for your project
o Organise physical implementation
o Arrange a community event
o Provide guidance on maintenance
If you want to know more about Green Streets in Manchester, please contact
Jess or Sarah at Red Rose Forest on 0161 8721660 or visit us atwww.redroseforest.co.uk

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 14th July 2005 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

Greater Manchester Sports Fund

The Greater Manchester Sports Fund was launched recently and is now accessible to all. Greater Manchester Sports Fund will help aspiring young sportsmen and women through the support invested by AGMA, by individual donors, corporate partners and other grant-giving trusts. The fund will work with the National Governing Bodies of Sport to identify young athletes and help them to achieve their sporting potential. This intervention can often be the difference between a talented athlete staying with their chosen sport or quitting.
To be eligible for a Greater Manchester Sports Fund grant, applicants must be competing at National, Regional or County level or have the potential to do so with appropriate funding and be between the ages of 12 and 21 years.
For more information about the Greater Manchester Sports Fund and to apply for funding, please contact the Community Foundation for Greater Manchester on tel; 0161 214 0940.

ReplyReply Posted: (Monday 18th July 2005 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

Youth Music - New programmes

Continuing the success of the previous programmes, Youth Music will be funding music-making activities through three new Open Programmes: First Steps; Make It Sound; Vocalise!

* First Steps - First Steps will fund music-making activities for children aged 0-5. Awards will be between £5,000 and £15,000 for schemes lasting between 6 and 12 months. Projects funded will provide weekly, progressive group music-making activities that are fun and stimulate young children. Groups will be encouraged to explore music from a variety of cultures; and parents, carers and families will be encouraged to develop their own music leading skills and support on-going music-making with their children. Early Years practitioners will also develop their music leading skills within childcare settings, which will enable them to lead music making sessions.

* Make It Sound - Make It Sound will fund music-making activities for young people aged 5-18. Awards will be between £10,000 and £30,000, for projects lasting between 6 and *24 months. Projects funded will include structured music-making activities designed to develop young people's music skills; these will include composition, song writing and/ or improvisation. Priority will be given to organisations targeting children and young people who find it difficult to access opportunities that may help them to develop and progress. This would include young people at social, economic, cultural or geographical disadvantage.
(*Subject to Youth Music's funding being confirmed by Arts Council England beyond March 2007)

* Vocalise! - Vocalise! will fund singing and vocal activities for young people aged 5-18, with the focus being on those aged 8-14. Awards will be between £5,000 and £20,000, for projects lasting between 6 and 18 months. Activities can be tailored for those of all singing abilities and the young people will be encouraged to demonstrate their achievements, for example by performing concerts to their peers, families and the wider community. Projects can explore any vocal styles from traditional choral singing to beatboxing, opera and other vocal traditions from around the world.
Open Programmes applications take an average of three months to process. For more information and application forms contact Youth Music, One America Street London, SE1 0NE Tel: 020 7902 1060 Fax: 020 7902 1061 Email: info@youthmusic.org.uk Website: http://www.youthmusic.org.uk

ReplyReply Posted: (Monday 18th July 2005 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

Activities at JNR8 Youth and Community Centre

Cookery Club - Wednesdays, 4.00pm-6.00pm
Cookery for 7-13 year olds. Join in this fun group to learn basic Cookery skills.

Cookery for 13-19 year olds - Fridays, 5.00pm-7.00pm.
Cook different cuisines with Michael and help organise food fundraisers.

DJ-ing/MC-ing - Wednesdays and Thursdays, 6.00pm-9.00pm.
Grab the mike and spin the decks. Also featuring food and the play station. For 13-19 year olds.

Bike Club - Mondays, 3.30pm-5.00pm.
Bike maintenance and safety for 7-19 year olds. Bring your own bike to fix up or practice on one of ours with Adam, a qualified mechanic.

Sports Training - Mondays, 5.00pm-6.00pm.
Sports activities for 13-19 year olds at Chorlton Leisure Centre.

Thai Boxing - Wednesdays, 5.00pm-6.00pm.
Kickboxing and fitness for under 13s with pros Curtis and Horace.

Mariam\'s Youth Club - Mondays, 6.30pm-8.30pm.
This group has lots of fun activities for young women with disabilities, aged 9-19. For more information ring Maria or Jane on 0161 881 8116.

Young Men\'s Group - Tuesdays, 6.00pm-9.00pm.
Thought provoking group work sessions and discussions on all areas of life for young men aged 13-19. Food provided.

Youth Club - Wednesdays and Thursdays - 7.00pm-10.00pm.
Come to play pool, surf the net or just chill. Run by Ossie, Cynthia and Barry.

Contact Katrina, WHIZ-OUT Project Manager for more information on 0161 881 3744, unless otherwise stated.

JNR8 Youth and Community Centre is at 82 Cromwell Avenue, Whalley Range, Manchester, M16 0BG

ReplyReply Posted: (Friday 22nd July 2005 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

Alltogether.info discussion forum -

Here you can continue to discuss local community radio

ReplyReply Posted: (Monday 1st August 2005 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

Appeal for more African Caribbean blood and bone marrow donors

Currently, there are approximately 16000 BME people on the UK bone marrow registers. To make this representative of the community and to give black cancer sufferers a chance of life, at least 45,000 BME people need to register in the UK.
A number of blood registration clinics have taken place in Manchester, to enable potential donors to be identified. This is an ongoing process, and if you are interested in finding out more please contact Elaine Mills at Support4Progress@aol.com or on 07947 594728
More information is also available at the African Caribbean Leukaemia Trust website: http://www.aclt.org

ReplyReply Posted: (Monday 8th August 2005 ) By - michelle (Registered User)

Salford Heart Care Support Group

Are you interested in making a difference for your local charity?
The National Association of Hospital and Community Friends is working closely with Salford Heart Care Support Group to assist in the strategic development of the Charity.
We need professional, skilled people to help us. Do you have the following skills that could help us:
* Organisational Development
* PR & Marketing
* Finance
* Fundraising/sales experience
* Volunteer Management
* IT/Website Design & Development
If you can help, you will become a member of our Strategic Development Committee who are required to meet once a month in the evening.
Marion or Jean: 0161 707 7402.
Give us a call now this is your turn to make a valuable difference!

ReplyReply Posted: (Monday 15th August 2005 ) By - jane (Registered User)

Manchester Independent Living Service

An Introduction To Manchester Independent Living Service
(MILS)

You may, or may not have heard of MILS, but by sparing two minutes of your time and having a read through this, you will have an insight in to, who we are and what we do.

MILS is a project of Manchester Care & Repair, who are a local non-profit organisation working primarily with older people who own their own home.
Both Care & Repair and MILS share the same philosophy, that being;

That we want all older people in Manchester to have the independence and quality of life that comes with a warm, safe, secure and comfortable home.

MILS can enable and promote this; through the packages of short-term practical assistance and help it is able to offer, to older people [60+], who live, as owner-occupiers and private tenants, within the qualifying districts of Manchester.

So, if you're 60+, an owner-occupier or private tenant, and live within any of the following areas;

Ancoats, Ardwick, Bradford, Cheetham, Clayton, Crumpsall, Gorton, Gorton North & South, Harpurhey, Levenshulme, Longsight, Miles Platting, Moston or Newton Heath

and feel that you would benefit from some short-term practical assistance and support with independent daily living, give us a call. *

Given our extensive working knowledge and contacts database, our team of caseworkers, who will visit you in your own home, are able to advise and inform you of what services are out there and support you in accessing them.

No charge will be made for this service, however donations are gratefully accepted.

So, if you're, one of the many who's confused by what's out there and how to get it, give us a call, we'll listen to what you have to say and take it from there - nothing ventured, nothing gained!

We look forward to hearing from you

MILS at Manchester Care & Repair
[0161] 872 5500

Manchester Care & Repair Unit 14 Empress Buildings 380 Chester Road Manchester M16 9EA

*If you don't meet these criteria, you may still contact us, as we may be able to offer telephone support in signposting you to the appropriate agencies, which can advise or help you further.

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 18th August 2005 ) By - jane (Registered User)

Architectural Heritage Fund (AHF)

The AHF is a registered charity, founded to promote the conservation of historic buildings in the UK by providing advice, information and financial assistance in the form of grants and low interest working capital loans for projects undertaken for the benefit of the community by building preservation trusts and other charities. Only organisations with charitable status are eligible for financial assistance from the AHF. Any charity with a qualifying project is eligible to apply for an Options Appraisal Grant, a Refundable Project Development Grant or a loan, but the AHF's other grants are reserved for BPTs - charities established specifically to preserve historic buildings. Financial assistance is available only for buildings that are listed, scheduled or in a conservation area and of acknowledged historic merit. Projects must involve a change either in the ownership of a property or in its use.
For more details contact: The Architectural Heritage Fund, Clareville House, 26/27 Oxendon Street, London SW1Y 4EL.
Tel: 020 7925 0199
Fax: 020 7930 0295
Email: ahf@ahfund.org.uk
Website: http://www.ahfund.org.uk

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 18th August 2005 ) By - jane (Registered User)

EMERGE is looking for volunteers

EMERGE Recycling are looking for people to volunteer as Community Recycling Champions.

EMERGE is a not-for-profit community business promoting the idea and practice of the "3Rs" of waste management: REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE. We work to tackle Greater Manchester's growing waste problem, to improve the local and global environment, boost the local economy, create jobs and training opportunities and support local communities. A major part of our work is collecting materials for recycling from over 55,000 Greater Manchester households.

What's a Community Recycling Champion?
A volunteer who acts as a contact point between local residents and EMERGE Recycling within an agreed area. They help to promote and improve the local recycling service provided by EMERGE.

Why should I be interested in doing that?
As a Champion, you'll be helping to make a real difference in your local community. You'll receive new skills and training, meet like-minded people and have a vital input into local plans.

What sort of things would a Champion have to do?
As a minimum, distribute publicity materials to neighbours, and gather feedback from neighbours about the recycling service they receive. Depending on how much time you have to spare, you could also keep an eye on how much/how well the service is being used locally, have input into local waste management plans, and/or occasionally attend relevant local meetings to ensure that waste issues are being considered.

But I don't know enough about waste or recycling!
Don't worry, we will give you full training on the three Rs of waste management (Reduce, Re-use, Recycle), and prepare you for almost anything that people may ask you. You'll also be supported by EMERGE's Community Recycling Liaison Worker, who'll be on the end of the phone if you need them! You DON'T need to be a recycling expert, you just need to have an interest in it and believe that it's important.

I'm interested, but am I the right person?

You're just the person we're after if you are:
* Interested in recycling and/or supporting the local community
* Available to be contacted by other residents or EMERGE on a day to day basis (usually by phone), and prepared to contact EMERGE in return as appropriate.
* Able to attend occasional relevant meetings, training sessions, etc.
* Able to commit time to all the tasks required
* Willing to keep a record of important information
* Friendly, polite and approachable
* Willing and able to learn new things

The following are helpful, but not essential:
* Knowledge of the local area.
* Links/previous involvement with the local community
* Existing knowledge of recycling and a commitment to the 3 Rs (reduce, reuse, recycle) of sustainable waste management.

Sounds great! What do I do now?
We need to make sure that you have a genuine interest in the post, and the time available to do it. Contact Seb on 223-8200 or seb@emergemanchester.co.uk to arrange a meet-up.

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 18th August 2005 ) By - jane (Registered User)

Carers Advice, Information and Advocacy Service

An innovative new service has been launched for carers in Manchester. The carers advice, advocacy and information service supports carers whose family members or friends are being cared for in residential care, nursing care or are long stay NHS patients. This a free service available to carers and professionals in the city of Manchester.
Carers will be able to access appropriate information to enable them to be aware of their rights and the rights of their friends or relatives. The service will support carers in negotiating with professionals when there are concerns about the standards of care being provided or when carers are struggling to get their voices heard.
Advice and information is available by telephone, email or post. Direct advocacy and outreach work will also be available to carers when issues require more input
For further information or to access this service contact:
Sally Francis, Carers Advice, Information and Advocacy worker, Gaddum Centre on 0161 214 3933 or alternatively email carersgaddum@hotmail.co.uk

ReplyReply Posted: (Monday 22nd August 2005 ) By - jane (Registered User)

Free Training for health and social care groups

Free training is available for Independent Voluntary Sector/community organisations' staff and volunteers that are offering Health and Social Care Services to their service users.

Funding for learning and development needs and qualifications is available from the National Training Strategy Grant and this is free to organisations that meet its criteria.

In order to establish if your organisation is eligible for this funding, please contact Nazneen Khan on the address below to discuss your organisations learning and development needs.

Nazneen Khan, Learning andDevelopment Officer, Learning and Development Service, Manchester Children, Families and Social Care, Victoria Mill, 10 Lower Vickers St, Miles Platting, Manchester, M40 7SH. Tel 0161 203 3200, fax 0161 203 3210 or email: nazneen.khan@manchester.gov.uk

ReplyReply Posted: (Tuesday 13th September 2005 ) By - jane (Registered User)

NEW - Brownley Green Credit Union Office

Wythenshawe Credit Union is opening a Brownley Green Credit Union Office at Brownley Green Methodist Church & Gym, Broadoak Road, Benchill on Friday 9th September from 10 am to 12 noon & every Friday with Counselling on Finance & Debt or Personal Matters.

Call in and find out more about the simplicity and advantages of banking and borrowing the Credit Union way.

For enquiries ring 0161 436 2347.

ReplyReply Posted: (Tuesday 13th September 2005 ) By - jane (Registered User)

Financial Support for Young Parents

The aim of Care to Learn is to give financial support to teenage parents (including dads) who want to continue their education or training, or are returning to education or training and need help with the cost of their childcare.

Who can get help?
A young parent can receive support with their childcare if they are:
* aged under 19 years; or
* started a course before they were 19

For help or more information call the Care to Learn team at Manchester on 0161 234 7269.

ReplyReply Posted: (Tuesday 13th September 2005 ) By - jane (Registered User)

Trainers and Consultants Direct

NACVS has relaunched Trainers and Consultants Direct (TCD). This popular free service helps voluntary and community organisations search for trainers, consultants, temporary and project managers, and non-managerial supervisors.

Users can search TCD by specialism, fee or geographical region. It contains comprehensive details for 150 trainers and consultants, including organisations with which they have worked, a personal profile and relevant qualifications. Groups can also download a free guide that helps them through the tendering and contracting process.

Trainers and Consultants Direct can be found at:
http://www.trainersandconsultantsdirect.org.uk

If you are interested in registering with the directory contact tcd@nacvs.org.uk

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 15th September 2005 ) By - jane (Registered User)

Volunteer Opportunities at SNAP

Do you genuinely like young people and want to help them achieve in life?

SNAP (Rusholme) is currently looking for a number of teaching staff and core project workers, paid and voluntary, to deliver and assist with English and Maths lessons (up to GCSE level), PHSE, IT and all other aspects of the project.

Alternatively we would welcome contact from any organisations who would like to work with the project and our young people. We are also hoping to set up links with other agencies who would like to deliver appropriate art, drama, PHSE and sports based programmes here at the project.

Please contact us on 0161 224 4261 if you think we can work together in any way to improve the life chances of these young people.

We are looking for energetic individuals with relevant backgrounds (e.g. teaching, youth work, psychology) to join our dedicated team. If you believe you have the necessary skills and personal attributes to work in an educational setting with young people who exhibit challenging behaviour, then please don't hesitate to contact us.

CONTACT:
SNAP, Trinity House, Grove Close, Rusholme, M14 5AA
Telephone: 0161 224 4261
Email georgina@trinityhouse.org.uk

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 15th September 2005 ) By - jane (Registered User)

Volunteer Supervisors Required at YASP

Do you have a few hours to spare each week? Do you have experience of supervising people (maybe children, volunteers or young adults) Do you know how to cook? If the answer is yes, please read on.

YASP (Young Adults Advice & Support Project) is looking for volunteers to help supervise the day to day running of its Internet Cafe. The role will involve supporting young adults in food preparation, cooking, serving customers, cleaning and planning. It will also involve signposting and working with the young adults who use the Cafe.

This is an ideal opportunity for someone who may be wishing to gain experience of working directly with young adults, may be looking for a suitable 'stepping stone' to further their career or is looking for something new and exciting to do during the week. All volunteers will receive regular supervision and support.

All YASP staff and volunteers are subject to a Criminal Records Bureau disclosure.

If you would like an Application Pack or an informal chat about the post please contact Martin Stanier (Cafe & Therapeutic Activities Manager) on (0161) 221 3054. Alternatively, please email martin.stanier.yasp@harp-project.org.

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 15th September 2005 ) By - jane (Registered User)

Sunrise Volunteers

Are you living in Manchester?
Want to meet and help refugees?
Are you available weekdays, for a few hours?

If yes, then MRSN has opportunities for volunteers to assist refugees who have just been granted permission to stay in the UK. You will assist one or two refugees at a time and help them deal with the problems they will face as they settle in the UK. You will be invited to attend social events with other volunteers, refugees and community members.

Previous experience is not necessary as we provide training. Reasonable English is required and we appreciate volunteers who can speak a second language.
Volunteers from all backgrounds are welcome.

Want to learn more; Call Hassan on 0161 232 7420 or email volunteer@mrsn.org.uk

ReplyReply Posted: (Monday 19th September 2005 ) By - jane (Registered User)

Re: Once We Were Africans…

tes

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 22nd September 2005 ) By - gramcin (Registered User)

Website needs your comments !!!

Have you used the Steppingstones website and not wanted an adviser to contact you, please can you tell us why. Steppingstones are looking to find out if you found the help, information and support that you required and how the website helped you.

Please can you send some feedback about the site, you can send this information anonymously through the website or you could post your comments here on this forum.

This information does not have to be very long, all that’s needed is shown below:

1. Found the relevant information on the site
2. Used the contact numbers provided
3. Went to an outreach location
4. Went to Job Centre Plus
5. Used the links on site

You can also send in your suggestions about any other information that you need to improve the service

Website: http://www.steppingstonesintowork.info

Contact Stepping stones: Click me

Anonymous Feedback: Click me

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 22nd September 2005 ) By - jane (Registered User)

Young Black Peerspectives

Hello every one!

Name is Doris Mangara, i am a Health Development Worker for New Young
Refugee and Asylum Seeker Health Initiative from Young Black Peerspectives.

I am working with young men and women refugee and asylum seeker communities
age 16-25 year olds and unaccompanied.I educate them about sexual health
awareness, delivering sexual health session, challenge the barriers that
prevent them accessing health services, providing advice and guidance which
the group experiences.

Providing resources and develop a pilot project where the Action Resaerch
into the needs of and mapping of refugee and asylum seeker communities will
take place.

Young Black Peerspectives also offer a drop in service at Kath Locke
Community Resource Centre between 10-12pm and 4.30 -5-30pm wher young
people can get sexual health advice, Free condoms and pregnant testing.

Doris Mangara
Health Development Worker
Kath Locke Centre
123 Moss Lane East
hulme
Manchester
M15 5DD
Tel : 0161 455 1502

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 22nd September 2005 ) By - jane (Registered User)

Barclays Spaces for Sports Local Hero Awards

Barclays Spaces for Sports is investing £30 million to create sustainable sports facilities in communities across the UK. It is the single biggest investment in grassroots sport by a company ever in the UK.

With their charity partners and in consultation with local communities, they're funding over 150 Barclays Spaces for Sports over the next three years.

They're helping local communities transform neglected land into the sporting facilities they want - from a skateboard park to a football pitch or multi use games area. They provide initial funds, supply equipment and help establish sporting activity at the site.

They are also helping many young teams by providing coaching kits worth £750, which include t-shirts, fleeces, cones and whistles. They are providing 1200 coaching packs per year, donating them to teams and groups who have the greatest need, targeting disadvantaged areas in the UK. To find out if you are eligible to apply please contact The Football Foundation on 0800 0274221 or email enquiries@spacesforsports.org.uk

This is a pack of coaching equipment and clothing, which can be used for a variety of team sports. Each kit includes: Training bibs, Training cones, Whistles, Water bottles, Stop watches, T-shirts, Baseball caps, Coach's jacket, Coach's clipboard, First aid kit, Team bag and tote bags.

The new £30m community investment programme Barclays Spaces for Sports, as
well as the prestigious Barclays Premiership Player and Manager of the Month awards, have inspired the creation of the Barclays Spaces for Sports Local Hero award. This honour is for the unsung heroes who tirelessly support grass roots sport in communities across the UK. Deserving recipients could be anyone from a long-standing groundsman [sic] to a coach who works endlessly to develop players or someone who drives the minibus or who has made the teams sandwiches for years! In recognition of their efforts Barclays will present to each winner a limited edition silver medal and a donation of £1000 to the team or charity of their choice. If you would like to vote for someone you feel really deserves a Barclays Spaces for Sports Local Hero Award, please complete the nomination form available from their website and return to the address provided.

Tel: 0800 0274221 Email: enquiries@spacesforsport.org.uk or go to http://www.barclays.co.uk/spacesforsports/

ReplyReply Posted: (Monday 26th September 2005 ) By - jane (Registered User)

Regeneration Meeting

Anyone with questions about regeneration in Miles Platting can air their views at a meeting next Thursday.

Campaign group Residents Against Demolition are inviting all members of the community to come along to the Church of the Apostles, Ridgeway Street, Miles Platting on Thursday 29 September at 7.00pm

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 29th September 2005 ) By - jane (Registered User)

New resources to support ethnic minority women in the workplace

Ethnic minority women can face stereotyped attitudes about their race and culture, as well as their gender, that can prevent them from getting the jobs and careers they would like.

The Equal Opportunities Commission has produced two leaflets to help fill the advice gap. One is for women themselves, available in 8 languages, the other is for advisers. To order free copies of the leaflets contact the EOC helpline on 0845 601 5901 or email info@eoc.org.uk

ReplyReply Posted: (Monday 3rd October 2005 ) By - jane (Registered User)

Warm Front Grants

Warm Front is the Government's main grant-funded programme for tackling fuel poverty. The scheme was launched in June 2000 and before its name changed to Warm Front, it was called the Home Energy Efficiency Scheme.

What measures are available under the scheme?

A Warm Front grant of £2,700 or £4,000 (if oil central heating has been recommended) can provide a package of insulation and heating tailored to each property.

For more information go to http://www.defra.gov.uk/environment/energy/hees/

ReplyReply Posted: (Monday 3rd October 2005 ) By - jane (Registered User)

Art in the Park!

Heaton Park, near Middleton & Prestwich, is being host to the newest arts venue in Manchester!

Magnificent improvements have been made to the buildings and landscaping of the park after it received an £11 million+ grant. Heaton Park has once again become a magnificent place to spend time and observe the changing landscape through the seasons. Breathe the fresh country air, enjoy the views from 'The Temple' - Manchester's highest point - and indulge yourself in the local history that has touched so many people in Manchester over the decades.

There will be drawing and painting workshops running every month in the newly refurbished classroom in the Farm Centre. The workshops are aimed at adults of all abilities. For more information, please call Brian Raymond on 07816 791023. He will be happy to send you a leaflet with details of dates, costs, etc.

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 6th October 2005 ) By - jane (Registered User)

The PAD Scheme

Professional Development for Chinese Artists

Chinese Arts Centre is launching a new programme called the PAD Scheme [Professional Artists Development], supported by the Esmee Fairbairn Foundation that aims to provide new or emerging Chinese artists, with a programme of professional development to strengthen their artistic practice and career.

The PAD Scheme will offer artists a wide range of opportunities and training, such as career advice, artist surgeries, portfolio sessions, mentoring, advice on writing fundraising applications, putting together a proposal, marketing, selling your work and how to exhibit nationally and internationally.

The scheme is open to Chinese artists working in various artforms, who live or work in the UK. The culmination of this project will be a touring exhibition, profiling best of the UK's emerging Chinese artists.

Make it happen!
For further information and application details, please contact Deborah Chan, PAD Scheme, Programme Manager at Chinese Arts Centre on: pad@chinese-arts-centre.org

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 6th October 2005 ) By - david (Registered User)

Comments

It would be great to know what people think of this site.
Post your comments here.

ReplyReply Posted: (Monday 10th October 2005 ) By - jane (Registered User)

Proposed Community Hall in Blackley

We are starting an exciting project to build a community hall inside St Peter's Church Blackley.

Verbally people have expressed their support and desire to use such a hall. There would be a good sized hall, kitchen and all will be accessible for disabled people.
We hope to provide a computer facility and an upstairs hall which will be useful for smaller groups or conference faciltiies.

This would be available for hire on either a regular basis or one off.

We believe that the area around St Peter's Church - Blackley Village, Dam Head, Charlestown will benefit from the services you can offer.

There is no other facility in the area to meet educational, age support groups, Refugee support, Mums and Toddlers etc.,

If you believe that you would use such a facility please will you write to me saying so.

This will not commit you to using it but it will help us in justifying re-ordering this Grade 2 star listed building for community use to Manchester Diocese, English Heritage , the Georgian
Society and the Victorian Society.

Yours sincerely
Reverend Hilary Evans
St Peter's Vicarage
14 Hill Lane
Blackley
manchester
M9 6PE

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 13th October 2005 ) By - jane (Registered User)

Public transport travel training

The travel training service has been mainly aimed at persons with disabilities or learning difficulties but GMPTE are willing to meet any organisation dealing with client, so we can have a look into who could benefit from it a volunteers or awareness raising. BME communities or even Surestart parents

Please reply back to me, if you feel your North Manchester clients could benefit from either training or awareness of Public transport, so I can measure the interest and get something organised.

Nick Hunter
Economic Strategy Team,
North Manchester Regeneration Team,
Manchester City Council,
15 Moston Lane
Moston
Manchester
M9 4AD
Tel 0161 277 8831
E- Mail n.hunter@manchester.gov.uk

ReplyReply Posted: (Monday 21st November 2005 ) By - jane (Registered User)

Help! Volunteer cooks wanted

Northenden Community Lunches are looking for volunteer Cooks to help provide 30 - 40 3-course meals every 2nd Wednesday of the month.

They have excellent kitchen facilities and a friendly well organised team of volunteers.

Contact: Bill or Barbara Joughin 0161 998 8370.

ReplyReply Posted: (Thursday 1st December 2005 ) By - jane (Registered User)

Age Concern Manchester's Money Maze Project Going Strong!

Age Concern Manchester's Money Maze project has been in operation since May 2005, and is making a real difference to the lives of hundreds of older people in Manchester. Since its launch, Money Maze has helped over 860 people across Manchester claim over £250,000 in extra benefit, meaning a better quality of life for the recipients and adding considerable value to local economies.

Over £2 billion of benefits go unclaimed every year by those aged 60 or over, often because people don't realise that there are entitled to it, or are put off by the thought of having to complete a lengthy form. The Money Maze team is fully trained in the benefits system, and can offer free, impartial & confidential advice on the range of benefits available and the options available for receiving money.

The service can offer:

Advice over the telephone for general enquiries, call free on 0800 027 57 87

Free factsheets to help with managing finances

Help with obtaining and filling out claim forms

One-to-one advice at our Swan Street Office in the city, or at one of our regular outreach sessions at Wythenshawe, Beswick and Harpurhey

Home visits for clients that are unable to visit us

Assistance with opening or managing Bank, Building Society or Post Office accounts.

The service is available to those over 60 throughout North, Central and South Manchester, and also to their families and carers. To find out more, call free on 0800 027 57 87 or pick up a leaflet in any Age Concern shop.

ReplyReply Posted: (Wednesday 14th December 2005 ) By - Patty (Registered User)

ActiveAdvice - Employment Advice and Guidance

An Active Advice Worker is available in libraries across Manchester to give one on one information, advice and guidance sessions to disabled people about: training; employment; education; skill development; and support & advice. The opportunity is yours! If you have a physical disability, learning disability or mental health issue, ask one of your local library staff about ActiveAdvice, an appointment can be made to suit your individual needs.
For more information contact Patty on 0161 234 1946, or email p.doran1@manchester.gov.uk.

ReplyReply Posted: (Saturday 17th December 2005 ) By - TRIM (Registered User)

Timber Recycling Volunteers Needed

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES IN TIMBER RECYCLING
TRiM (Timber Recycling in Manchester) is a community business set up to collect and put to good use timber that would otherwise be sent to landfill.
If you would like to help develop recycling in the city, we offer volunteering opportunities and training in all aspects of timber recycling. This can include:
* Going out on site collections
* Grading and sorting timber
* Timber sales
* Designing and making things
* Research and PR
No skills or experience are required - just enthusiasm for bringing a social and environmental benefit to the city. We pay travel expenses, provide lunch and offer a chance to work hard, be appreciated and have some fun!
Interested?
Tel: 0161 223 4400
Email:info@timberrecycling.org

ReplyReply Posted: (Sunday 8th January 2006 ) By - Col (Registered User)

Speeding Cars down Grangethorpe Drive

What can we do about cars racing down Grangethorpe Drive despite the speed bumps? It's only a matter of time before something very sad happens.
Is it OK to put up our own signs? It will take years for the coucil to do anything......

ReplyReply Posted: (Tuesday 10th January 2006 ) By - jane (Registered User)

Advocacy for Disabled Refugees and Asylum Seekers

Dear everyone

The Horn of Africa Disabled Society (HADS) has been set up in July 2005, with the aim of providing services of advocacy and language translation to disabled and non disabled people living in Greater Manchester.

We are disabled people ourselves and we would like to support disabled people including refugees and asylum seekers living in Greater Manchester.

We are now setting up a translation team consisting of disabled people who can speak minority languages; therefore we are recruiting people to get involved in our team. Currently the languages we can provide are: English, Somali, Swahili, and Kurdish.

Contact:
The Horn of Africa Disabled Society
Mohamed - 07904 390 473
Bahman - 07751 705 467

Address:
The Windrush Millennium Centre, 70 Alexandra Road, Moss Side, M16 7WD

ReplyReply Posted: (Tuesday 10th January 2006 ) By - jane (Registered User)

Ethical Consumer Magazine

We need help with admin, research, marketing, writing and design. Based in Hulme.

Contact Mary Rayner on 0161 226 2929 or through
mary@ethicalconsumer.org for more details.

For more information about Ethical Consumer go to http://www.ethicalconsumer.org

ReplyReply Posted: (Tuesday 10th January 2006 ) By - jane (Registered User)

Big Lottery Fund - Reaching Communities

Minimum grant: £10,001
Maximum grant: £500,000
Total available: year one £100m

We have launched Reaching Communities, an exciting new England wide programme that will provide funding to help improve local communities and the lives of people most in need.

Communities are at the heart of Reaching Communities. We want to fund projects that respond to needs identified by communities, and actively involve them. We want to fund projects that help those most in need including those people or groups who are hard to reach. We will give support to those projects we think best meet their communities' needs.

The three-year programme will make up to £100 million available in 2006-07, with future budgets being set annually.

Reaching Communities will give grants of more than £10,000 and up to £500,000, including a maximum of £50,000 for capital grants. We have set a maximum overall project size of £750,000 and £200,000 for the total capital element within a project. We will fund projects for up to five years.

We want to bring about the following changes as a result of our funding through this programme.

* people having better chances in life, including being able to get better access to training and development to improve their life skills
* strong communities, with more active citizens, working together to tackle their problems
* improved rural and urban environments, which communities are better able to access and enjoy
* healthier and more active people and communities.

You can apply to Reaching Communities if you are:
* a registered charity
* a voluntary or community group
* a statutory body, (including schools)