Oldham community champions receive PM's Points of Light award

Two women from Oldham who set up a community interest company to support vulnerable members of the local community, particularly parents, have received Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s daily Points of Light award.

Charlene Burns and Kim Rogers set up ‘Real Education Empowering Lives (REEL CIC)’ to offer a range of services for people in need across Oldham.

They include women's enrichment work, family support groups, father's group, parents and toddler groups, wellbeing and fitness activities, positive activities for children and young people, and bespoke support to meet individuals needs.

They also provide crisis support, such as helping over 1,500 people receive emergency clothing, essential baby and home items, as well as engaging with the elderly and vulnerable to reduce social isolation, alongside food interventions and further support.

Congratulating Charlene and Kim on their award, Jim McMahon, MP for Oldham West and Roydon, said: “Last year I spent some time with 'REEL CIC' and saw first-hand just how dedicated they were to improving the lives of people on Fitton Hill and how much thought they put into the work they were doing particularly with families with young children.”

Charlene said: "It is with great pride and honour that I have received this special recognition by being named as a Point of Light.

"I am extremely proud of the diverse range of work we do at 'REEL CIC' that meets the needs of the communities we work in.

"Our swift response and agility during the pandemic meant we were able to support those who needed it the most.

"We could not have achieved all that we have without our wonderful team, our volunteers and the community’s support.

"Thank you for this award and thank you so much to all those who have understood our vision and supported our work.

"Every one of you who have given your time, energy and passion to make a difference to other people's lives, this award is for us all.

"You are all awesome.

"Teamwork makes the dream work."

Kim said: "I am absolutely delighted to receive this award for Team Reel.

"I feel privileged to have worked with an amazing community at a time when so many people needed support with their mental health and wellbeing.

"I am proud of how quickly our team came together and responded to supporting the community, especially those in crisis during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"This work couldn’t have been achieved without the dedication and passion of the Team Reel staff and volunteers, for this I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

"Thank you for this Points of Light Award - we will continue to engage, encourage and empower individuals to live a purposeful life."

The Prime Minister’s UK daily Points of Light award was first launched in April 2014 to recognise outstanding individuals making a difference where they live.

Charlene and Kim are the 1,705th and 1,706th individuals to be recognised.

As the UK unites to fight the spread of coronavirus, the award is focusing particularly on people serving their community through the pandemic.

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