ROSSENDALE REVEALED

BARRY Hyde, member of the Promoting Rossendale Partnership Board, takes a closer look at The Rossendale Community Support Network THE Rossendale Community Support Network is a brand new initiative that is being established in the Valley as a means of connecting and engaging the many volunteer organisations and groups within Rossendale with a view to developing a strategy for the provision of support to those in our community who are less fortunate than others.

Currently there are a number of excellent groups and organisations that provide much needed support but are often working in isolation.

The initial aims and objectives of the Rossendale Community Support Network (RCSN) are to link these existing community groups and organisation and offer additional material support and expertise through other network members.

There has already been significant interest in the initiative including supermarkets, churches, community groups, supply logistics groups and Citizen’s Advice.

It is envisaged that the development of a communication network for members will result in a more effective delivery strategy for the essential support to those disadvantaged within the Rossendale community.

Through a dedicated Facebook group and other social media, the network will offer opportunities for its members to post requests and information and communicate with other network members.

A further aim of the RCSN is to encourage and enable communities to both donate and distribute much needed food and other products directly within their own communities, to share best practice within the RCSN and provide Valley-wide support through the network seven days a week. The network is also looking into other initiatives that would provide further resource to member groups and subsequently additional support to those within the Rossendale community who are disadvantaged.

If your organisation would like to be a part of this new initiative and benefit from being part of a Valley-wide network please contact Barry Hyde at b.hyde3@ ntlworld.com