Oldham businesses recently came together at The Brew in Fitton Hill to learn how they can support Spark Oldham in creating opportunities for local young people. The networking breakfast, held on 30 April, was organised by Spark Oldham in partnership with The Casey Group, and it aimed to demonstrate how social value partnerships can benefit both companies and the community.

During the event, attendees heard about the social value calculator, a tool that measures the impact of business donations and practical support. Spark Oldham explained that contributions are more effective when focused on youth initiatives, and this measurable impact can help companies prove their social value when applying for contracts that assess such commitments. This approach aligns with growing requirements for businesses to showcase their positive influence on local areas.

The breakfast also highlighted ongoing work to support young people in Oldham through employment, training, and personal development. Through the partnership with The Casey Group, Spark Oldham has already employed three young people, with a fourth set to start in June. These roles provide valuable experience and help bridge the gap between education and work, addressing local skills shortages and building a stronger workforce.

Young participants at the event spoke about how the support from Spark Oldham has boosted their confidence and preparation for work. They emphasised the practical help, mentoring, and training received, which have made them feel more equipped for the job market. This feedback underscores the tangible benefits of the program for individuals and the broader community.

Kim Rogers, founder of Spark Oldham, shared her vision for social value. "Social value is about real change for young people who need opportunity, guidance, and belief," she said. "It's not just about ticking boxes; it's about transforming lives and communities."

John Walmsley, social impact executive at The Casey Group, expressed his commitment to the partnership. "We walked through the Spark door and met Kim and saw the passion and energy that they have for the young people and what they were doing was making a big difference, and we wanted to be part of it. We wanted to be a massive part of it because that is exactly what we are about in our ethos of transforming lives," he said, emphasising the alignment of values between the two organisations.

Spark Oldham is a community interest company focused on youth development, wellbeing, and volunteering in Oldham. The Casey Group complements this by creating jobs, skills, training, and volunteering opportunities in the areas where it works, ensuring that social value translates into real-world benefits for local residents.

For Oldham businesses, getting involved with Spark Oldham offers a direct way to contribute to community resilience while meeting social value targets in procurement processes. The partnership model shows how collaborative efforts can amplify impact, providing a blueprint for other companies to follow.