Failsworth MP Angela Rayner has visited an Oldham charity to find out more about the services it offers.

Positive Steps, based in Oldham, provides integrated support services, careers information, advice and guidance for young people aged 13 to 18, or up to 25 years old for those with a special educational need or disability.

The MP met young people taking part in woodwork and hairdressing sessions and spoke to them about how support from Positive Steps is helping them to stay on the right track.

The visit took place on Friday, January 13.

She was also given a tour of the bike workshop, where young people from partner schools are invited to help restore old bikes before they are donated to local good causes.

Bikes are then sold at the Positive Cycles shop in the town centre – or lent for up to a month as part of the ‘Bike Library’ scheme.

ALSO READ: Borrow a bike for free under new scheme in Oldham.

Angela Rayner said: “It was fantastic to see the great work being done at Positive Steps and meet young people who are really benefitting from the support on offer.

“The traditional education path is not for everyone and some young people can become disengaged if they are not offered the appropriate support.

“Positive Steps prioritise reducing the amount of young people Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET) to build their confidence and resilience so they can progress in a way that suits them.

“The pandemic caused so many problems for young people and we have seen increased levels of mental health problems, isolation and missed opportunities so the dedicated outreach team at Positive Steps really are doing vital work to make sure no one is left behind.”

ALSO READ: Positive Steps chosen as official charity partner of AFC Oldham.

A spokesperson for Positive Steps said: “Angela Rayner visited the Positive Steps office on Union Street in Oldham on Friday.

“The visit was to know more about the initiatives their Careers Guidance and Support Services have been taking to help young people across Tameside and Oldham into education, employment and towards a better path in life.

“On the visit, she was taken across the building and Angela had the opportunity to see workshops taking place and she was able to interact with some of the young people.”