Oldham charity OPAL celebrates its 40th anniversary in style

The OPAL charity celebrated its 40th anniversary with a fabulous party at the Queen Elizabeth Hall in Oldham.

They had a very entertaining DJ, Phat Pat, who played a wide range of music and fun party games.

There was also a buffet with a variety of dishes and plenty of cake.

OPAL (Oldham Personal Advocacy Limited) is a charity based in Oldham that supports people who have learning disabilities and autistic people to gain the same life chances as everybody else.

People who have learning disabilities/autistic people are often overlooked and their opinions not heard; OPAL has challenged and advocated so that people’s voices are heard when decisions are being made about them and their lives.

Chief Executive Michelle Anderson said: “Celebrating 40 years of OPAL was amazing.

"We have supported hundreds of people in Oldham throughout the years, and many of them came along with their carers, family and friends to dance the night away and to see old friends.

“We thought it was important to acknowledge all the people who made OPAL what it is today.

"Over the years, we have developed a dedicated volunteer Board of Trustees, an equally dedicated staff team, advocates, student social workers and volunteers who have supported people to improve their lives and be a part of their community.”

OPAL offers day services which are fun and engaging, and people can develop skills or learn new ones.

There are computers, iPads, craft sessions, karaoke and much more! OPAL has partnered with Wheels for All and their Bike Buddy programme, providing eight adapted bikes that allow all people to take part in physical activities; this has proved widely popular with individuals.

‘OPAL Move’ is a free programme which gives people a chance to improve their physical and mental health and have fun over the course of eight group sessions.

There are places available for all services.

Please get in touch with a staff member at OPAL or email if you would like more information.

OPAL’s services run 10am-4pm, Monday to Friday, at the Link Centre, Union Street in Oldham, OL1 1DZ

More details are on the website: opal-advocacy.org.uk

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