Just one more sleep until Illuminate - and here's what you can look forward to
Illuminate, our annual free celebration of light now in its eighth year, makes a dazzling return this weekend with a sparkling programme of events and activities.
The family-friendly festival features breathtaking light installations, interactive activities, and performances from talented artists.
It takes place across Oldham town centre, Gallery Oldham and Oldham Library from 6pm tomorrow, opening with a parade of hundreds of lanterns creating a river of light through the town centre from the Civic Centre to the Old Town Hall.
Get creative at Oldham Library and Gallery Oldham by joining Oldham Play Action Group to make your own light-up works of art, and Tim Simpson's Light Painting workshops to let you play with light and create art in the dark.
Then make sure you join us on Sunday from 6.30–9.30pm at Northern Roots eco-park for an illuminated journey into the future.
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“She sat and listened. This has made a massive difference”
One parent said her daughter 'came out of her shell' thanks to free sessions provided in their home through our Oldham Family Hubs.
Real Enhanced sessions are for children under five who are not in an educational setting, and parents have spoken of the positive impact they have had on their family life at a 'Cuppa and Chat' drop-in.
At-home sessions support with development and help to get children ready to learn.
Mum Natalie Boardman said about family practitioner Lauren Eaton: “Seeing someone regularly and playing has made a massive difference."
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Are you a new parent and feeling anxious? This free course is for you
A Baby Bonding course is also available through our Family Hubs offer, which is particularly helpful if new or expectant parents are feeling anxious or worried.
"Every week Austin has had a big sleep afterwards because of all the fun we both have," said one mum who recently completed one of our five-week courses held at Hope Methodist Church, Failsworth. Baby Bonding supports parents and parents-to-be to develop a strong bond and relationship with their baby, from before they are born through the early stages of their life. New courses are starting at 1.30–2.30pm on Tuesday 4 March at Stanley Road Family Hub, Derby Street, Chadderton, OL9 7HX, and 1.30–2.30pm on Thursday 6 March at Spring Meadows Family Hub, Leamington Street, Littlemoor, OL4 2RN. To register please email [email protected]
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Oldham Council reaffirms support for Armed Forces community
We are proud to renew our commitment to the Armed Forces Community by re-signing the Armed Forces Covenant.
This pledge ensures serving personnel, veterans and their families receive the support that they deserve.
Council Leader Cllr Arooj Shah attended the signing with the Mayor Zahid Chauhan, alongside senior council officers, members of the Armed Forces, including Major Eddy Hardaker, two cadets and Louisa Blakemore from the Ministry of Defence.
She said: "Oldham has always stood proudly with our Armed Forces. Their dedication and sacrifices deserve not only recognition but meaningful action."
Key commitments include:
· Ensuring they are not disadvantaged when accessing public services.
· Providing additional support for those who are injured or bereaved.
Oldham Council, the proud holder of the Silver Award in the Armed Forces Employer Recognition Scheme, is increasing its support for veterans as it works towards securing the prestigious Gold Award.
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Helping to get Oldham working
If you're employed and managing a health concern, the Get Oldham Working Workwell Vanguard can support you.
They are offering free support to help you achieve a healthier balance between work and life.
You can get access top personalised guidance from your own adviser, therapy and counselling for up to 26 weeks, bespoke health plans with Oldham Community Leisure and employment and volunteering opportunities.
Contact the team to find out more by phoning 0161 770 4674 or emailing [email protected]
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Have Your Say on Plans to Improve Travel in Oldham and Royton
We’re working with Transport for Greater Manchester to plan major improvements to make journeys in Oldham and Royton quicker, safer and more reliable – and we want to hear your views.
TfGM is developing proposals to improve bus routes, walking, and cycling facilities along key roads, including the A627 and A671. These changes aim to reduce congestion, improve bus services and make sustainable travel easier. With £50 million in funding, plans include upgraded junctions, safer crossings, improved bus stops and better cycle routes.
The consultations are open until Monday 31 March, with drop-in sessions in both Oldham and Royton town centre.
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Gathering information for traffic safety
Next week, we’ll be carrying out video surveys around Lyndhurst Primary School to gather important data on traffic patterns and safety.
We'll be at the school on Monday 24, Wednesday 26 and Friday 28 February from 7–10am and 2–5pm each day.
Cameras will be located on Hollins Road at the junctions with Heron Street and Lyndhurst Road.
Please be aware that these surveys are for data collection only, no personal information is recorded and all data remains strictly confidential. |
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Helping to get your community moving - could you benefit?
Wheels and Walks is a new programme by Transport for Greater Manchester helping community groups to inspire more people across the region to walk, wheel and cycle.
Local groups can apply for up to £5,000 in funding to run activities, plus access training, networking and expert advice to keep things going beyond the funding period, and drop-in sessions are being held where you can find out more.
Come to Oldham Library on Greaves Street from 11am–1pm on Wednesday 26 February.
And an online session will be held from 12–12.45pm on Thursday, 27 February. To join click here.
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