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BOLTON Street Angels - who help town centre night time revellers -need a helping hand in their search for a new base. The volunteers are having to relocate because their current premises are being transformed into student accommodation. The Angels have been based at 91 Bradshawgate for three years, paying a peppercorn rent under a government scheme to help not-for-profit organisations set up in vacant commercial units, which they would not otherwise be able to afford. The chairman of Bolton Street Angels Clare Gore said: “There is no doubt that being at 91 Bradshawgate has allowed our organisation to help many more vulnerable people in the town centre. “We have assisted around 220 people per year since we moved in. The shop is close to the action and provides us with a base for our volunteers as well as a safe space for anyone who needs it.” Kevin Hegarty, of Ideal Site Ltd, said: “The Angels were a pleasure to deal with and in a bad letting time were ideal tenants which gave us a credit on the rates. The Angels always kept our property in perfect condition.” But the development of the site means the organisation needs a new office. Bolton Street Angels has recently been awarded a grant from the Big Lottery Fund Awards for All programme. Ms Gore said: “The grant means that we can continue our good work for longer. It is also great recognition of the work that we do. It shows that we are valued. The grant will pay for training for the volunteers and cover general expenses. “We also have a small amount to help us with the relocation costs such as planning permission or minor repairs.” The Angels have been praised by the community, local police, the Greater Manchester Police and Crime Commissioner and the Prime Minister. Ms Gore said: “We have come so far since we began in 2008 and I am determined to keep us going. “We have 30 dedicated volunteers who give their time for free and help so many people whilst also decreasing the burden on public services.” The Angels are looking for a unit in the areas of Bradshawgate, Churchgate, Bank Street or the area of Deansgate, near to Prestons of Bolton. Landlords or agents who can help should contact Andrew Holden on [email protected] Comments are closed.
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ROC Angels - an initiative of ROC (Redeeming Our Communities)
Charity - 1139817 / Registered Company - 7327258 Postal Address: ROC Angels, c/o The King's Centre, Park Rd, Halifax, HX1 2TS E-Mail: [email protected] (founder / CEO) / Phone: 07725501465 |