Fresh hope for worried playgroup

THE scout hut at the rear of Springhead Community Centre

A SPECIAL needs playgroup under threat of closure has been handed a lifeline.

Saddleworth special needs playgroup needs to find an alternative base after the NHS decided to sell off its existing home in Springhead.

And after the Chronicle reported the group’s plight, chairman of Trustees Liz Brocklehurst said: “We have had quite a few people come forward and offer help.”

The scout hut at the Springhead Community Centre is looking like a viable option for the group, although it would need a lot of work to accommodate the youngsters who meet four mornings a week.

Other possible venues include Lydgate Parish Hall, Springhead Congregational Church and St Barnabas in Clarksfield, after the vicar heard of the group’s dilemma and offered support.

The NHS has also offered money to help the group move.

Liz added: “The NHS has done this in recognition of the service the group provides and we’re extremely grateful.

“We feel much more optimistic about the future, people have even contacted us wanting to do fundraising events forus.”

Although the building currently housing them could be sold off as soon as April, the group is hoping that it can stay on until July, before starting fresh in September.

Liz said: “We are really touched by how many generous hearts there are out there. It’s been lovely to see the good in people in times of difficulty.”

A meeting of the Board of Trustees for the registered charity will take place on March 14, when a relocation decision will be made.

Councillor Barbara Beeley said: “It’s brilliant that the local community is getting behind them.

“Often voluntary groups go unrecognised, this group takes children from all over Oldham and it’s a worthy cause.

“It’s great to see that support.”