Award-winning English project seeks new volunteers to support Rochdale’s learners

Thursday, 21 August 2025 10:15

By David Murphy

A long-running council initiative that helps local residents learn English is appealing for new volunteers to join its team

A celebrated education service run by Rochdale Borough Council is calling for around 20 new volunteers to support local people learning English.

The Talk English project, which celebrated its tenth anniversary last year, offers informal language classes to residents who are taking their first steps in learning English. Delivered in partnership with Hopwood Hall College, the scheme prepares learners for formal college courses and helps them integrate into local life, access services, and even secure employment.

Since launching in 2014, the project has helped nearly 5,000 people from 85 countries improve their English, with volunteers playing a key role alongside trained tutors.

Councillor Danny Meredith, cabinet member for regeneration and housing, said: “Talk English is a vital local service which gives people the tools to transform their lives. Our volunteers are a crucial part of it. Without them, the project would not have stood the test of time.”

Volunteers are asked to commit around two hours a week during term time, with classes held at various venues across the borough. There are no formal qualifications required, only strong communication skills and a willingness to help. Full training is provided.

Current volunteers range in age from 19 to 90. Among them is Theresa Davis, who said: “It’s really satisfying to do something that has such a positive impact on people’s lives. At the start, many learners can only say a few words, but by the end they’re speaking full sentences.”

Ken Bamber, the longest-serving volunteer, added: “The learners are a wonderful bunch of people. For me, the best days of the week are Mondays and Tuesdays when I volunteer with Talk English.”

The council is now actively seeking more people to step forward and help continue the project’s success.

Councillor Meredith said: “This is a great opportunity to meet new people, build friendships, and gain experience in a supportive setting. We are keen to welcome new volunteers into this fantastic role.”

The initiative has received local and regional recognition over the years, including the Diversity in Education Award at the 2015 Rochdale Diversity Awards and the Group of Volunteers Award in 2017.

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer should email talkenglishproject@rochdale.gov.uk to find out more.