Special event at Rochdale Infirmary supports the vulnerable

13 December 2022

Rochdale Care Organisation hosted a special ‘Reaching Out’ event to support the most vulnerable people, including families and the homeless in our community.

The event was supported by system partners, including Big Life Group, Health Watch Rochdale, Rochdale Health Alliance, public health, and colleagues from Rochdale Care Organisation and the Local Care Organisation.

Those who attended were given hot food and drinks, warm clothing, covid and flu vaccinations, and haircuts.

There was also free healthcare advice and treatment at the event, which took place in Outpatients on 6 December.

The event was attended by over 100 people and families in need and there were around 25 volunteers supporting on the night.

Organiser Jackie Heatley, Interim Divisional Director of Nursing/AHPs at Rochdale Care Organisation, said:

“It was great to welcome so many people in need and to see them benefitting from the advice and support being offered. It’s nice to be able to make a positive difference, to help save lives and improve lives, especially in the run up to Christmas and at a time where many are struggling.”

The event was fully funded through charitable support from the hospital workforce, system partners, local community, and businesses, including Comfy Quilts in Middleton, Tesco, Rochdale Lions Club, M&S, Iceland Food Warehouse, Kingsway Park High School, and Falinge School.

There were many items left over from the event and these have all been donated to vulnerable families and homeless charities across the borough.

Jackie added:

“A huge thank you to all our colleagues and local businesses who came together to support the event. The kind donations received were overwhelming. Seeing those less fortunate receive hot food, warm clothing, flu and covid vaccinations, haircuts, wound care, alcohol and mental health support was heart-warming, and demonstrated how committed our colleagues are to making sure the most vulnerable members of our community are provided for.”   

Lynette Cook from the Volunteer Service said:

“To see how this event has grown over the last seven years is amazing, bringing in more services from the NHS and community, all working together in partnership to help those in a time of need. It really does make a massive difference to people's lives and helps to spread awareness.”

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