Volunteer Fair brings local groups together at Number One Riverside

Wednesday, 11 June 2025 13:44

By David Murphy

Dozens of community groups gathered at Rochdale's Number One Riverside today, Wednesday 11th June as Action Together hosted a Volunteer Fair to connect residents with vital local causes.

A wide range of charities and organisations attended the Volunteer Fair at Number One Riverside, where Rochdale residents were invited to discover volunteering opportunities and access local support services.

Organised by Action Together, the event brought together groups including Petrus, Samaritans, The Bond Board, Rochdale Mind, Roch Valley Radio and more. Each organisation aimed to raise awareness of their services and recruit new volunteers to help strengthen their work across the borough.

Roch Valley Radio used the opportunity to appeal for volunteers in a variety of roles, including reporting, administration, event support, behind the scenes production, and on-air presenting. The dedicated community station and news outlet plays a key role in local broadcasting and public engagement and depends on local volunteers to thrive.

Rachel Culshaw from The Bond Board, which works across Rochdale and Bolton, spoke to attendees about the organisation’s work helping people at risk of homelessness to find homes in the private rented sector. The charity also supports landlords through a bond certificate scheme to make tenancies more accessible.

“Our support covers everything from helping people find somewhere to live, to sorting out benefits, managing money, and dealing with rent arrears or poor housing conditions,” she said. “We also help with furniture, contacting specialist services, and providing emotional support to people who are isolated or struggling to cope.”

The Bond Board works closely with those in need of housing or support to reduce homelessness and improve access to safe, stable homes. Their presence at the fair highlighted the broad range of support available in Rochdale.

Residents were encouraged to get involved in whatever capacity they can, whether helping on a helpline, running a support group, or backing up operations behind the scenes.