Voluntary counselling organisation celebrates 15 years of supporting Oldham residents

Side by Side Counselling, a local voluntary organisation, celebrated its 15th anniversary.

The service, which opened in 2007, offers free counselling to anyone over the age of 17 in Oldham and Ashton.

To date, they have supported over 2,000 clients and have offered almost 16,500 counselling hours.

The service provides face-to-face sessions from locations in Oldham and Ashton every week and also offers phone sessions so people can receive support from their homes or other safe space.

Unlike many mental health services, Side by Side Counselling does not limit the number of sessions a person can receive and offers support until individuals feel ready to move on.

The service, which is run entirely by volunteers and is funded through donations, also supports trainees to achieve diplomas, degrees and masters courses in counselling.

Over the years, Side by Side Counselling has worked alongside Oldham Council, The Women’s Project, Ancora and ABL Health to reach out to the most isolated people within the community and support them with issues such as anxiety, depression, bereavement and loss, addictions, sexuality and relationship problems

Luke Entwistle, one of the founders of the organisation, said: “Counselling is something that could help any of us at some stage in our lives.

"However, after Covid and lockdown, there are many more people struggling with their mental health.

"Counselling gives people the chance to explore any issues in a safe, positive environment, with a therapist they can trust beside them”.

Cllr Mike Glover, the Civic Mayor of Tameside, who attended the celebration event, said: “It is amazing how many volunteers are doing so many important jobs.

"It is difficult to find the right words to express the level of gratitude for the work of local volunteers.

"It is usually not until there is a crisis in someone’s life that people need these services.

"At the moment, there is a prevalence of mental ill health and worries, so it is important to recognise all the good work that is being done to support local people during these difficult times.

"Thank you to all the volunteers doing so much good work.”

To access free counselling or find out more information, people can contact Side by Side Counselling on 07376 799797 or 07342 144238, or at: www.sidebysidecounselling.co.uk

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