A new community hub has been launched in Bolton.
The project is the result of a partnership between Endeavour, a charity supporting those affected by domestic abuse, and Irwell Valley Homes, a not-for-profit social landlord.
The Endeavour Hub, located on Calvert Road in Great Lever has already started offering activities for locals.
Bolton South and Walkden MP Yasmin Qureshi helped inaugurate the new establishment by cutting the ribbon.
Irwell Valley Homes owns more than 7,000 homes across Greater Manchester, with about 1,350 in Bolton.
The housing provider's involvement allows residents to meet their neighbourhood officer or tenancy sustainment coach at the hub.
Endeavour supports those escaping domestic abuse by providing a pet fostering service, counselling, mental health support, and specialised programmes for older adults, ethnic minority groups, and young people.
The charity's new community base is already benefiting the whole community, offering craft groups, coffee mornings, and workshops.
These activities are a gateway for community members to access the support they need.
Jill Caldwell, chief executive of Endeavour, said: "The Endeavour Community Hub is for everyone.
"It’s a place for connecting with others, accessing support and is already helping us to widen our reach further to those who need us.
"Our fantastic partnership with Irwell Valley Homes is providing us with a base in the heart of the community - helping us to become more accessible and breaking down the barriers that can exist when people are frightened to take that first step towards change.
"We have seen a huge increase in social isolation and anxiety.
"Through the activities at the hub, we are hoping to help combat this by creating a space where everyone is welcome."
The hub is already making a difference, with conversations during craft activities leading to tailored support from counsellors, outreach workers or assistance with housing issues.
Ms Caldwell said: "We’re excited to see how the venture continues to grow and change to meet the needs of this beautifully diverse local area."
Sasha Deepwell, chief executive of Irwell Valley Homes, said: "We are extremely proud to play a part in this exciting new venture, and delighted to see the building being put to such good use.
"Endeavour have done a fantastic job transforming the place into a welcoming and friendly community hub, which is already such an asset to the local area.
"We know that by working in partnership with other local groups and organisations we can do more for the benefit of the customers and communities we serve, which is why we were so pleased to join together to deliver this worthwhile new project."
Bolton South East MP Yasmin Qureshi also commended the initiative.
She said: "Ensuring that we have a vital resource in the centre of the community is vital and will go a long way to support people across Great Lever and Bolton who need to use Endeavour’s services.
"I want to thank Jill, Sasha and their teams for inviting me to be part of this special day and I look forward to visiting again and meeting with the dedicated staff."
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