Success for Deeplish Community Centre summer playscheme

Date published: 03 September 2019

A special playscheme run by Deeplish Community Centre provided four weeks of activities for children and young people this summer.

More than 120 children and young people participated in exciting and challenging activities, focusing on health and wellbeing, engagement and empowerment, whilst being aware of child safety.

Over 25 volunteers dedicated their time in working and supporting the during the summer holiday scheme, which saw visits to Hollingworth Lake, Alexander Park in Oldham and Heaton Park, Manchester.

The visits were designed to connect young people with local cities and towns and build their confidence, physical fitness and geographical knowledge.

Operations manager, Sohail Ahmad said: “All children and young people were eager and happy to visit new places and parks. They built confidence, friendship, knowledge and were very actively engaged during our operation times.

“I am pleased to say that every child made their best efforts and fully participated in all activities.”

The playscheme also worked with Greater Manchester Police and the local neighbourhood police team to learn about ‘stranger danger’ and personal safety, whilst the children responded well in a question and answer session with police officers.

This year, playscheme volunteers also provided interesting talks and discussions about STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and maths), and an open sports day was held to organise challenging and fun activities.

Special guests Mayor Billy Sheerin, leader of the council Allen Brett, former Mayor Mohammed Zaman and Councillor Janet Emsley attended the final day of playscheme, which celebrated the success of the summer programme.

The Mayor was welcomed by children from Milkstone and Deeplish and informed how the playscheme worked, before he signed and presented certificates to the children alongside Councillor Brett.

Children received certificates for completing their Healthy Heroes tasks, good behaviour, performance and achievements during the summer playscheme, including awards for: sports, science, arts, literacy, participation, best dressed and happiest child.

Mayor Sheerin said: “I am pleased to attend this event and I am moved by the children’s participation and achievements.”

He also thanked and presented certificates to all volunteers for supporting the project.

Former Mayor Mohammed Zaman presented certificates to volunteers for their dedication and support for the playscheme. He also presented a cheque for £350 to playscheme, from his charity fund during his year as Mayor, to help and support playscheme children achieving their objectives.

Mohammed Saleem JP chair of Deeplish Community Centre said: “We are very proud to see such a successful and well attended pay scheme run by Deeplish Community Centre volunteers. 

“It’s always pleasing to see children engaged, active and achieving their full potential in a safe and friendly environment.

“This playscheme is one of the popular projects which is always in demand and we are committed to providing suitable activities and programmes as in demand from the local community.”