Outstanding work at Rochdale soup kitchen

Photo: Bismillah Production

Rochdale soup kitchen

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The "outstanding" work carried out at the Rochdale soup kitchen has been highlighted by a local production company.

The short film was shot on Wednesday (7 February) by Bismillah Production to create awareness of the soup kitchen and how it benefits those who require its services. The film also features interviews with volunteers, including Councillor Chris Furlong.

Producer Zain Ul Islam, 18, said: “We have been making videos for the past few months together. I know the guy who started and runs the soup kitchen personally and he wanted us to take his video project with him.

“We decided to do it as it’s for such a great cause and so people would know what it is and how it benefits the needed public.”

Councillor Furlong added: “It is a perfect example of excellent positive community cohesion in action for the benefit of all in our community, but especially for those that need help the most.”

The soup kitchen, operated at the former Magistrate’s Court by Rochdale Community Partnership (RCP), has been operating for just over two years and has 50/60 regulars who drop by for a hot meal and tea or coffee each week. The group also signposts users to other services or agencies dependent on individual needs, such as the NHS, Rochdale Boroughwide Housing, drugs or alcohol services, and the homelessness team.

RCP's Mohammed Sheraz said: “At Rochdale Community Partnership, we’re forever grateful for individuals, businesses and organisations that give us their kind contributions to help us sustain the soup kitchen.

“Our users come in every week from 5.30 to 7.30 and we provide a hot meal and food for them. It’s not just about the hot meal, it’s about having a conversation: most of them just want someone to listen to them.”