Every child deserves the best start to life.
We listen to parents and carers, connect them to the support already out there and help local people lead change in their own neighbourhoods.
Becoming a parent should feel like the start of something good. For too many families, it feels lonely, stretched and hard to navigate.
The Bear Hug Project is a Community Interest Company (CIC) set up by local people, for local families. We meet parents where they already are, listen to what they need and walk alongside them to the help that can make a difference. We add to the services Oldham already has, not duplicate them.
Why it matters
41.8% of Oldham children live in relative low income after housing costs, one of the highest rates in the UK.
63.1% of children reach a good level of development by the end of reception, against 68.3% across England.
6.7 infant deaths per 1,000 live births in Oldham, against 4.1 across England.
62% of new parents feel lonely or isolated at least some of the time.
Behind every number is a family. Support exists across Oldham, but not knowing what's on, getting there, trust and isolation keep too many parents from reaching it. We help families through the door.
How we work
Listen. We ask parents and carers what life is really like, and we share what we hear openly.
Connect. We introduce families, warmly and personally, to the support that already exists.
Strengthen. We train local parents and community groups to lead activity in their own neighbourhoods and languages.
Deliver. Where there is a gap no one else is filling, we fill it: stay-and-play, baby massage, parent meet-ups and low-sensory SEND sessions.
Teddy Bear appeal
Every hug opens a door.
This November, help us gift a teddy bear to children in temporary accommodation, refuges and care across Oldham.
Be part of something local.
Whether you can give an hour, share a venue or spread the word, there's a place for you.