A new project has come to Bolton which could be a "fantastic opportunity" to help people on probation get back to normal life.
This comes with the launch of the Bolton PoP-in project at Silverwell House, of Silverwell Street, which will act as a hub for people readjust back into society after release from prison.
It will be run by Bolton Community Advice, whose staff and volunteers have worked hard to make it a reality.
Chief executive Steve Fisher said: “Since we achieved charity status two years ago, we have seen a huge rise in people needing our help in the town, particularly the number of people on probation who often lead chaotic lives and aren’t always to navigate the services they need to help them.
“This project is a fantastic opportunity for us to make a real difference.”
The centre was opened at a ceremony last Friday attended by guests and trustees.
Trustee Cllr Nick Peel said: “It’s a great project to have here and it’s a huge gain for Bolton to provide some assistance to people who have served their time and are turning their lives around.”
He added: “In the long term, projects like these actually save the country and the taxpayer a lot of money help to ensure people avoid reoffending.”
Trustee Cllr Nick Peel with chief executive Steve Fisher
The opening was also attended by Bolton Council stronger communities chief, Cllr Mudasir Dean.
He said: “Generally, the advice centre has done very well since its inception, and they’ve really blossomed as an organisation.”
He added: “This particular project is interesting because it reaches a vulnerable population who don’t always get the support they need, so I think it’s a real positive for the residents of Bolton.”
The project has been funded by Greater Manchester Combined Authority.
Steve Fisher hopes that the project will 'make a real difference'
Greater Manchester deputy mayor Bev Hughes said: “It is very important, and one of our priorities, that we provide better support to meet the needs of people on probation or released from prison, to help them turn their lives around.
“The Bolton PoP-in project is a great initiative that will contribute to these objectives and GMCA are pleased to support the project and the services it will provide.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here