Find out this week's news from Oldham Council

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A fantastic results day
Students across the borough received their A Level, BTEC and T Level results yesterday, and there were some fantastic results from Oldham Sixth form College, Oldham College, North Chadderton, Crompton House and Blue Coat schools.

Oldham’s children looked after and care leavers had some incredible results, with many getting what they need to get started at university, begin apprenticeships or launch their career journeys.

Although overall grades are slightly lower than those awarded by teacher assessment in 2021, the comparison between 2019 and 2022 shows increases for Oldham pupils at A*- A by 8%, A*- C by 5.7% and A*- E by 0.3%.

If you or someone you know has just picked up your results and are thinking, “what’s next?”, our website has lots of useful information: Taking your Next Steps ([link removed])
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A brand-new festival showcasing work made by Oldham's South Asian communities
Through a series of dynamic projects that bring artists and communities together, Khushi will take over the Coliseum, Oldham Library and Parliament Square, presenting a rich mix of events for everyone.

All Khushi events are free to attend.

The event takes place next week on Wednesday 24, Thursday 25 and Saturday 27 of August. For further information and a full listing of events is here ([link removed]) .
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Ukraine Independence Day
Wednesday 24 August 2022 marks 31 years since Ukraine declared independence from the Soviet Union and six months since Russia invaded the country.

Oldham is showing it's solidarity with the people of Ukraine by raising the Ukrainian flag above the Civic Centre. Throughout the day, we’ll be sharing inspiring stories of local Ukrainian voices and stories of the hosts across our social channels. If you are currently hosting a Ukrainian family and would be happy for us to share your story, please contact the communication team (mailto:[email protected] )

There will be a host of events taking place across Greater Manchester. On Wednesday 24 August at the Ukrainian Cultural Centre there will be a family fun day ([link removed])
Ongoing issues with fireworks
Unfortunately we continue to receive complaints about fireworks being set off in the middle of the night. Leader of Oldham Council, Cllr Amanda Chadderton, said: “We are aware of the issue with fireworks in Oldham and we continue to work with Greater Manchester Police to tackle.

“Fireworks are a nuisance and can be very disruptive, especially for young families and pet owners. As an Oldhammer myself, I am frustrated by the problem as well. Those setting them off need to stop being selfish and think of others.

“The use and possession of fireworks comes under The Fireworks Regulation 2004. This is a police power and only they can enforce this law. After a number of residents got in touch with me this week I’ve personally spoken with Oldham’s District Commander Chief Superintendent Chris Bowen about enforcing the law, but it is very difficult to police without exact locations.

“Our Environmental Health team has written to wedding venues advising them of their responsibilities, but we now believe that it’s individuals letting the fireworks off rather than the businesses themselves.

“If someone is letting off fireworks on their property between 11pm and 7am and outside of specific occasions listed under the Fireworks Regulations Act 2004, we urge you to contact GMP with the location by calling 101” ([link removed])

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GCSE results day is almost here
Is your child, or a young person you know, awaiting their GCSE exam results this week? With anxiety levels running a little higher than usual this year, it’s good to know that the right advice is on hand – should you ever need it.

We’ve been working with Positive Steps ([link removed]) to put together some useful information that links to a variety of different services in Oldham, just in case you know someone that needs a bit of a helping hand in taking their next step ([link removed])

Connect with us on Social Media
Oldham Council is on Twitter ([link removed]) , Facebook ([link removed]) , Instagram, ([link removed]) TikTok ([link removed]) and LinkedIn ([link removed]) . Join our followers and get the latest news, events, alerts from across the borough, business, regeneration, employment opportunities and much more.
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Customer experience survey – tell us what you think
We’re asking residents across Oldham for your thoughts on the services and support we provide.

We want to know what’s important to you when you’re seeking help or support from us. What works well, what doesn’t work well, and where can improvements can be made?

Your opinion matters, and we will be using the information you give us as we develop our new Customer Charter and continue to deliver services focused on you – our residents.

Please take the survey now, and share it with family and friends. It should take no longer than five minutes to complete ([link removed])
Take the energy price cap survey
Citizens Advice Oldham, want to find out how people are feeling after the news of energy bills increasing again.

Based on their data, Citizens Advice has seen more clients with energy problems in the month of June 2022 alone, compared to previous years.

They want to understand the issues that you are facing and your concerns for the upcoming months. ([link removed])
Do you know what to look out for when dealing with loan sharks?
If the answer is no, you’re not alone.

Money lenders have to be authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to lend money legally. Money lenders who aren’t authorised by the FCA are breaking the law. They are known as loan sharks.

With cost of living continuing to soar, loan sharks will be circling…They often pose as friends offering to help you out when money is tight and look for opportunities take advantage of financial desperation.Learn how you can spot the warning signs of illegal lenders ([link removed])

If you’re struggling financially, remember, We Can Help ([link removed])
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Are you out of work, on a career break or looking to move into a new industry?
#SkillsBootcampGM offers free training to people aged over 19 living and working in Greater Manchester, resulting in a guaranteed interview with a local employer.

The training is flexible to your needs and is a direct response to the challenges we know businesses in the city-region are experiencing.

Although all residents over 19 years can benefit, we’re placing a high focus on ensuring priority groups have access to this fantastic opportunity including;

1. Low paid and unemployed/not in work
2. Veterans
3. Ex-offenders
4. Women
5. Ethnic minorities
6. Over 50s
7. Those returning work after a break/maternity leave
8. People living with a health condition/disability

The latest training is brand new, so more industries will continuously be added ([link removed])
Dirty food businesses closed until standards improve
Oldham Council has closed 10 takeaways over the last few weeks after they failed routine food hygiene inspections - potentially putting residents at risk. ([link removed])

Environmental Health officers regularly visit premises, including takeaways, restaurants and sites where food is prepared, across the borough to check they are up to standard.

The majority are clean and are maintained to a good standard. Unfortunately, a small number fall below this.

Our staff found uncontrolled pest infestations including mice and cockroaches - or both - in some of the premises they recently visited.

The businesses will remain shut until they have been re-inspected and food hygiene standards have improved.

Further investigations are ongoing so the businesses cannot be named at this stage. Further legal action could take place.

The council is urging all food businesses to employee a professional pest control company and also that they keep their premises clean and carry out their own checks.

If you know of any premises that are dirty or unclean then please contact the council’s Food Safety team (mailto:[email protected]) or call 0161 770 2244.

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