30th anniversary launch

Backup formally launched the start of its 30 year anniversary this week with a VIP breakfast in the Mayors Parlour. Councillor Linda Thomas hosted the event in Bolton Town Hall to mark the milestone of this local homeless charity celebrating the Pearl anniversary. The attendees listened to a presentation from the CEO Maura Jackson talking about the history of the charity, its current portfolio and plans for the year. The service began as Bolton Young Persons Housing Scheme in 1992 with a partnership between the charity and Irwell Valley Homes whose CEO Sassha Deepwell was at this launch. In 30 years 1000s of young men and women have benefited from accommodation and support and moved on to live independent and impactful lives. 9 of whom have been employed by the charity, the most recent to join the payroll a brand new DWP Kickstart funded trainee support worker.

The attendees included Backup Guardians; Lesley Morgan, Becci Martin from Boo Coaching, Belinda Beaver from JOG consultancy and Faz Patel from The Best of Bolton. Bolton at Home, University of Bolton are also among our 30+ Guardians. Public Health, Childrens Services and CVS were also represented. We were also joined by Lynne Sprigings, our previous CEO and long time supporter. The Chair and Vice Chair of the Backup Trustee Board Dr Steve Sharples and Lisa Tulip were also there. 

2 young residents from the Backup scheme joined the event and talked directly to the group about their experiences resulting in them being homeless; and how Backup has made a positive impact on their lives. Both stories were heart warming and uplifting both making reference to the brilliant staff team who make them feel cared about. “Jay”, 19, told us that he was only back in contact with his family because of the support he received. He said he tried to get help for a while, his college tutors were helping, but once referred he was accommodated within a couple of days.  “Natasha” said she felt safe, and that’s a first.

The Leader of the Council Councillor Martyn Cox, Councillor Andy Morgan, Bolton at Home CEO Jon Lord OBE and Amy Varle from Socially Homes were some of the others supporting the event. Dr Steve Sharples, Chair of the Backup Board of Trustees, said he was delighted to see such a mix of residents, colleagues, supporters, Trustees and Guardians here to start this important year some of whom have supported Backup since the start.

The food was amazing as always by Sushmas Snacks and wonderful cakes from Celebration Cakes (Nicola Pearson.)