Petrus launches art projects in Rochdale Exchange

Petrus, dedicated to supporting the homeless

The Petrus Community is gearing up to launch two art projects next month, as the homeless charity opens its doors in the Rochdale Exchange Shopping Centre.

Petrus has teamed up with the Rotary Club of Rochdale to showcase art and photography whilst teaching locals upcycling skills in two empty units at Rochdale Exchange.

Liz Varey, of The Petrus Community, which provides residential and day support services for homeless people in the Borough of Rochdale, said the new Petrus space is going to be a fantastic way to let Rochdale people know all about what Petrus do and its dedicated projects.

She said: “We can’t wait to open our doors at Rochdale Exchange next on the 6 March.”

“Throughout our time at the centre, we will be showcasing original artwork by local artist, Geoff Butterworth, and photography by John Cannell.

“Whilst the exhibition is open the artwork will be available to buy and we are so pleased that 30% of those purchases will be split between Petrus and the Rotary Club of Rochdale.”

Community organisation, Worn Reborn, will also be getting involved and helping to run the weekly upcycling workshops in the charity’s second unit.

Liz Varey: “Worn Reborn will be working alongside Petrus to teach people how to create fashion items as well as repair and alter them.

“This project is entirely dedicated to increasing the confidence and wellbeing of participants through fashion, textiles and yarn crafts, so we are expecting to see some fabulous creations.”

The Petrus Community is also appealing to service users of the charity and those looking for a new opportunity to come along and volunteer within the art exhibition.

Liz added: “Both art projects are not only to help raise funds for Petrus, but also to make us a part of the central community by encouraging community engagement and increasing volunteering opportunities in Rochdale.

“We feel giving people a chance to volunteer with us can really allow people to increase their skills, confidence and general wellbeing whilst experiencing any type of disadvantage.

“We would like to thank the Rotary Club of Rochdale for working in partnership with us as well as Rochdale Exchange for providing such a fantastic space for us to launch our latest projects.”

Lorenzo O’Reilly, Rochdale Exchange Shopping Centre manager, said he is delighted to be able to welcome The Petrus Community to the centre in March.

He said: “In 2016, Petrus were involved in receiving a share of our Santa’s Grotto funds and we found that they are a truly vital organisation for disadvantaged people in the town.

“The charity has some fascinating projects in order to help people find safe, secure and quality housing within the area and we think these two art projects are a brilliant way to add to those services.

“We can’t wait to see the brand-new exhibition in the centre and we look forward to seeing the people of Rochdale learning new skills in the Petrus units.”

The Petrus Community units will be open at Rochdale Exchange Shopping Centre near Home Bargains from Monday, 6 March.

To find out more about upcycling sessions and volunteering opportunities, please contact Liz Varey at Elizabeth.varey@petrus.org.uk