Oldham News | Main News | Oldham teenagers have teamed up for a walk to thank Children in Need charity for helping them

A group of determined teenagers from the Upturn program are preparing to embark on a four-mile walk to show their gratitude to a charity that has changed their lives.

These inspiring young people, who have benefited greatly from Upturn’s unwavering support, will be walking alongside McDonald’s management and crew members from Middleton and Oldham, as well as students from the Redwood and Springboard Project and Hopwood Hall and representatives from the BBC to raise funds for Children in Need.

Their goal is to lend a helping hand to those who find themselves in a difficult situation.

The event will see participants walk from McDonald’s in Middleton to McDonald’s in Oldham wearing bright yellow patches to honor the fast food giant for giving many people their first taste of the workplace.

This strong show of solidarity is testament to the impact of Upturn, which has helped 167 of the North West’s most disadvantaged people find work or complete their studies.

Upturn received a grant from the BBC’s flagship campaign to empower young people to gain the skills and confidence they need to succeed.

And it was thanks to the support of Oldham’s and Rochdale’s business community, including key partner McDonalds.

Gail Lavery, head talent coach at Upturn, said: “These opportunities are fantastic, they give young people the chance to learn and develop new skills, confidence and work ethics to help them thrive and shine.”

Laura is a typical example of those who have thrived through Upturn Children in Need’s partnership with McDonald’s.

At first she lacked confidence and direction, but she completed a four-week training and placement course, impressing her supervisors so much that she was offered a full-time position.

She currently works at the Middleton restaurant, where the walk will start at 10am this morning (Friday), arriving in Oldham just in time for lunch at 12.30pm.

“Children in Need has raised almost £40 million for good causes over the years,” said Upturn co-founder Maria Williams.

“This is fantastic news for the communities who take this so seriously and for the charities and social enterprises who do so much for our young people.

“But it’s crucial to remember the people behind the fundraising and the numbers – the children and young people whose aspirations and opportunities have been raised, and the business people who support them.

“So if you see our team around today, please do the right thing and help Children in Need!”

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