Alternative Futures Group short listed for charity of the year

AFG Chief Executive Neil Campbell (centre) with from l-r, Mashuda Monnan, Andrew McGibbon, Christine Whittaker, Rebecca Winstanley and Steven Leslie White

Alternative Futures Group (AFG), a charity that supports people in Rochdale, has been short listed in this years Charity Times Awards for Charity of the Year.

Every year, the charity helps more than 1,100 people with learning disabilities and mental health needs across the North West. In Rochdale the charity has helped residents start online radio shows, meet rugby players and has launched a café run by people with learning difficulties in Thrum Hall Methodist Church.

Work done by the charity is achieved by providing around the clock support within the community, in peoples home or in one of eight specialist hospitals.

Neil Campbell, Chief Executive of Alternative Futures Group said: “We are delighted to have been short listed for what is widely recognised in the sector as a very prestigious award. It is a testament to the 2,500 people who work here and do such a tremendous job in often challenging circumstances.

“Its been a fantastic year with so many highlights including a two year partnership programme with Gambian charity Mobee.”

Two Rochdale support workers have been heavily involved with the work undertaken by AFG in Gambia. Mashuda Monnan and Les White were amongst a group of five support workers who set out on one of the first trips to Gambia for a two week study tour last year.

Neil added: “Several of our staff have already been to Gambia where they stay with families in their compounds and during the day help at local hospitals and clinics. They’ve been able to develop new skills and techniques and apply them in practice here, as well as get involved with other initiatives and projects.

“The project provides a first rate opportunity for both organisations to work together and raise awareness of mental health issues in Gambia and to share best practice.”

AFG is also working in partnership with Community Circles, Dementia Friends and Pure Innovations.

The awards ceremony will take place on Wednesday 22 October at the Lancaster London Hotel.