Caring and Sharing Rochdale’s VIP Over 50s Group collaborated with the Geller Institute of Ageing and Memory, and the University of West London on a research project exploring the experiences of African and African Caribbean communities living with memory problems and supporting more inclusive care.

Discover how our ESOL classes in Rochdale help learners build practical English skills, grow in confidence and prepare for employment while becoming more connected to their local community.

Be part of the conversation. Join CAS on May 6 for our NRPF community event in Rochdale.

Our CAS facilitator leads participants through a Creative Connection arts session, inspiring creativity and engagement in the community.

Creative connection session at CAS Rochdale Hub.

CAS CEO standing in front of the CAS Hub in Rochdale, representing community support and wellbeing initiatives.

Men’s Wellbeing Session with Cartwheel Arts

When people talk about “starting over”, it often sounds inspiring, like a clean slate, a fresh chapter, a moment of empowerment. But for many survivors of domestic abuse and exploitation, especially those with uncertain immigration status, starting over isn’t just difficult,  it’s dangerous, confusing, and deeply isolating.

At Caring and Sharing, we see this reality every week in our Immigration Drop-In Support Sessions. Women (and men too) show up carrying invisible scars. Some have fled violent partners. Others have escaped forced labour or trafficking rings. And nearly all of them are navigating a system that, frankly, doesn’t always know how to care for them properly.

When Safety Comes at a Cost

One of the cruelest ironies for survivors with insecure immigration status is that seeking safety can actually put them at further risk. Imagine finally finding the strength to leave a harmful situation, only to realise that:

• You might have no legal right to public funds.

• You could be facing deportation because your visa is tied to your abuser.

• You’re being told by authorities that your experience is “complicated” or “not urgent enough”.

• You don’t know who to trust, or even what your rights are.

That’s not freedom. That’s fear in a new form.
And let’s not forget language barriers, cultural stigma, and the very real threat of retribution from traffickers or abusive partners. Survivors often live in silence because speaking up feels like stepping into even more uncertainty.

“But why didn’t they leave sooner?”

We hear this question far too often. The truth? It’s not that simple. Many survivors we support have been strategically isolated — cut off from friends, family, finances, or even their passports. They’ve been told lies about what will happen if they reach out for help: “They’ll arrest you”, “They’ll take your children”, “You’ll be deported”.
So when someone finally does walk through our doors, we don’t take that lightly. It takes unimaginable bravery to speak up, especially when you’ve been made to believe your voice doesn’t matter.

The Rochdale Reality

In Rochdale, the challenges faced by survivors are compounded by systemic barriers. The Rochdale Borough Domestic Abuse Needs Assessment highlights that domestic abuse is a gender-biased crime, with 91% of high-risk cases referred to the Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) service being female. Additionally, 59% of these cases involved individuals under the age of 35 .

Furthermore, the Rochdale Borough Council’s Domestic Abuse Strategy acknowledges the disproportionate impact of domestic abuse on women from ethnic minority backgrounds, particularly those with insecure immigration status. These individuals often face additional hurdles in accessing support services due to language barriers, cultural stigmas, and fear of deportation .

What Freedom Actually Looks Like

Freedom, in our world, starts small.
It looks like a confidential conversation with one of our trusted partners from Greater Manchester Immigration Aid Unit (GMIAU), where someone learns, often for the first time, that they have rights, not just needs.
It looks like connecting a survivor to emergency housing that doesn’t ask invasive questions or make them feel “less than” for needing help.

It looks like walking someone through the Domestic Violence Rule or the National Referral Mechanism, explaining in plain language how to get the protection they deserve.
And it looks like sitting side-by-side with someone, not across a desk, while they reclaim their power, their story, and their future.

No One Should Have to Choose Between Safety and Status

Let’s be clear: surviving abuse or exploitation should not disqualify anyone from safety, dignity, or justice. But the system doesn’t always get that. That’s why community organisations like ours are essential. We show up in the gaps. We help people feel seen. And we work with partners who understand that legal advice is only one part of the healing process.

We Believe You. We’re With You.

If you’re someone reading this who is feeling trapped or unsure, please know this: you are not alone. There are people who will believe you. Who will advocate for you. Who will sit with you in the hard moments and walk with you toward something better.
And if you’re someone with the power to help; as a volunteer, a donor, a professional, or just a compassionate neighbour, your role matters too. Because every voice raised in support of survivors chips away at a system that has too often failed them.

This work isn’t easy. But it’s necessary. And every time someone walks from fear into freedom, even just a few steps forward, we’re reminded why we do it.
Let’s keep making space for freedom to be more than just a dream. Let’s make it real.

In today’s digital world, knowing how to use a computer isn’t just a useful skill, it’s essential. From job applications and online banking to accessing healthcare and government services, digital literacy opens the door to opportunities and independence. Yet, many in our community still face barriers to digital inclusion. At Caring and Sharing Rochdale, we’re working to change that.

Every Monday, our hub comes alive with learning during our Computer Literacy Sessions. These workshops are open to everyone, whether you’ve never touched a computer before or simply want to build your confidence with basic digital tasks.

Our goal is simple: to bridge the digital divide by providing friendly, accessible ICT support to those who need it most. We understand that not everyone had the chance to grow up with technology, and that’s why our approach is patient, practical, and empowering.

What We Cover

Our sessions focus on everyday digital skills, such as:

– Using a computer or tablet

– Creating and managing email accounts

– Browsing the internet safely

– Filling out online forms

– Accessing public services and local resources

– Using word processing tools like Microsoft Word

At CAS Rochdale, we’re passionate about equipping every child, every individual with essential computer skills, because every child deserves to be confident and capable in today’s digital world. Whether you’re helping your child with homework or applying for your first job, we believe these skills are key to unlocking opportunities and building a brighter future.

Participants receive hands-on guidance from our dedicated volunteers and staff, who take the time to work with each individual at their own pa

The Impacts So Far

We’ve already seen some incredible transformations. Older adults are now able to video call family abroad, parents are confidently managing their children’s school portals, and job seekers are submitting online applications with ease. These victories may seem small, but they’re life changing.

Why It Matters in Rochdale

Rochdale is home to a vibrant and diverse population, but like many towns across the UK, some residents face digital exclusion due to age, language barriers, or financial limitations. For newcomers, especially those from migrant communities, accessing essential services can feel overwhelming without digital confidence. Our workshops are designed with these local challenges in mind, offering a welcoming space for people to gain skills and build independence. By equipping people with digital tools, we’re strengthening our entire community.

How You Can Help

Digital inclusion is a community effort, and there are many ways to support this mission. If you have time to spare, consider volunteering with us. If you have unused laptops or tablets, we’d gladly accept them to support learners without devices. And if you know someone who could benefit from our sessions, please send them our way. The more we come together, the more we can bridge the gap.

If you or someone you know could benefit from improving their ICT skills, join us every Monday at our hub. At Caring and Sharing Rochdale, we believe digital inclusion is a right, not a privilege, and together, we’re closing the gap.

Engaging in (participatory arts), encourages connections to others, feelings of belonging, and shared identity in a community. These creative arts (music, dance, theatre, creative writing, museums, and heritage) also foster personal development and community and civic awareness – Daykin et al. (2021).

At Caring and Sharing Rochdale, creativity is more than just a pastime, it’s a pathway to healing, connection, and discovery. Our Creative Connection Workshop sessions are designed to celebrate Rochdale’s rich textile heritage while nurturing well being and building community through the power of arts and crafts.

These sessions are far from your typical art class. As soon as participants walk in, they’re greeted by a warm, welcoming atmosphere where creativity flows as freely as conversation. From weaving intricate patterns to designing beautiful textile pieces, each activity is hands-on and guided with care, allowing everyone, regardless of skill level, to learn, grow, and shine.

Throughout our sessions, we’ve explored Rochdale’s textile legacy, not just by talking about it, but by actively bringing it to life. We’ve explored natural motif repeat patterns, drawn from the world around us, and used them to design vibrant, expressive fabrics. These artistic explorations connect us to the past while allowing each person to put their own creative spin on Rochdale’s rich traditions.

But the magic of the workshop isn’t just in the art we create, it’s in the stories we share and the laughter that fills the room. As hands work on colourful threads and textures, hearts open up. Personal memories are exchanged, new friendships blossom, and a sense of belonging starts to weave itself into the very fabric of the group.

A study published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found significant improvements in mental health outcomes among participants engaged in art therapy.

Engaging in arts and crafts has been shown to improve mindfulness, reduce stress, and increase overall well being. It encourages us to slow down, be present, and find joy in the process. Whether it’s the repetitive motion of weaving or the satisfaction of completing a unique piece, these small moments have a big impact on mental and emotional health.

At Caring and Sharing Rochdale, we believe that everyone has a creative spark, and when we nurture that spark in the community, it lights up something truly special.

So whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just curious to try something new, our Creative Connection Workshop welcomes you with open arms. Come for the art, stay for the stories, and leave with a heart just a little fuller.

Creativity heals. Community connects. And together, we create something truly beautiful.