A THEATRICAL organisation and a charity are extending a crowdfunding appeal to raise funds for a theatre for young carers in Oldham.

Wild Things Performing Arts CIC has joined forces with Positive Steps to deliver a new youth theatre that will provide acting, singing and dance lessons to young carers across the borough.

The initial eight-week crowdfunding appeal, which raised £5,800, has been extended and is once again accepting one-off donations and regular monthly donations with an aim to raise £15,000.

There are thought to be up to 500 young carers in Oldham, with children as young as eight taking care of an adult or another relative on a daily basis.

When the appeal launched, youth worker on Positive Steps' young carers team, Julie Brewis, said: “Because of their caring responsibilities, young carers are sometimes not as confident.

"It can have a big impact on them socially.

"I think Wild Things will help them to be more confident, encourage them to be more open and build self esteem."

Wild Things has been offering community performing arts tuition for more than 10 years in the borough and want to offer young people a space to be creative, have fun and spend some time away from their adult responsibilities.

The organisation will also be holding an auction on its Facebook page with multiple pantomime tickets to see Sleeping Beauty at the Queen Elizabeth Hall up for grabs.

To donate click here.