A new initiative designed to link up community-minded businesses and grassroots organisations has had an amazing debut year.
Community SOS has seen dozens of projects that make a real difference delivered with the helping hand of firms who are looking to give something back.
The support can range from redevelopment, repairs and maintenance works to financial advice or training. Whatever is required, the Community SOS team are the experts in making those all-important match-ups.
Councillor Chris Ready, cabinet member for communities and neighbourhoods,said: “Our voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector here in Wigan Borough give so much. And we’re also blessed to have many businesses that prioritise their social value work and like to make important contributions.
“The projects supported through Community SOS range in size and type, but they have all made a real difference. We can’t wait to see how it progresses next year.”
Here are some of the success stories from the first year of the Community SOS scheme. If you would like to
get involved in the scheme for 2025 or to find out more, e-mail: matchmyproject@wigan.gov.uk
Aspull Olympic Wrestling Club + Rothwell Plumbing Services
When the well-renowned club was struggling with a hidden leak, RPS engineers Ged and Danny stepped in.
After learning about all the amazing work the club does in the community; supporting young people and producing its fair share of wrestling
champions, they did more than just fix the leak.
They re-fit all the pipework and replaced and re-fit the radiators in the wrestling room, making the space safer and more comfortable for the athletes to train.
Club director Andrea Wood said: “They went above and beyond. I can’t even begin to say how thankful we all are and what an incredible job has been done.
“Thank you to everyone involved, we are beyond grateful.”
Heath Street Methodist Church + Connolly Ltd
A meeting room at the Golborne and Lowton site needed a makeover after suffering with some damp issues.
After Connolly’s had finished, the flexible space was completely redecorated with extra storage and furniture added.
This all means that church volunteers now have a new space for their community partners and groups to all use.
Merly’s Kitchen + Connolly Ltd
This match-up saw Connolly’s step in when the team at Merly’s – a community interest company based in Tyldesley – was looking to transform their garden allotment.
The work will help Merly’s keep their food pantry well stocked and establish a mental health awareness area.
Founder Samantha Lowry said: “Connolly’s has worked with us to build an amazing asset for which we are very grateful and will benefit the community for years to come.”
Garswood Hall Bowling and Community Club + Jewsons
This much-loved location offers a warm and friendly atmosphere for visitors and is the home of a social isolation project.
To help with the extension of the club, an outside area required clearing and levelling off.
Builders merchants Jewsons offered their support to clear the site, paving the way for the club to move a big step forward with their plans.