Greater Manchester Probation Trust

Comnmunity Payback Offers “Lifeline” to Elderly in Bolton

11 Jan 2010

OFFENDERS carrying out Community Payback have been clearing snow and ice from around the perimeter of a Bolton care home.

A total of 68 residents live at St George’s Court, off St George’s Road, and many were left housebound after the big freeze descended on the country earlier in the week.
On Friday half-a-dozen offenders, under supervision by the town’s probation service, braved subzero temperatures to remove snow and ice, and to spread grit to make the area safe.
Paula MacLeod, Community Support Officer, is the warden at St George’s Court, and said: “The work they’ve carried out is absolutely brilliant and I can’t thank them enough because it’s provided a lifeline for the residents.
“Many of the residents couldn’t walk up the path to get to the bus stop. Obviously a fall can have serious consequences.
“We have a massive car park and it’s been a nightmare trying to get it cleared so cars can gain access. It now means it’s much easier for health carers and visitors.”
Bolton’s Community Payback team, with support from Bolton Council, are also carrying out other clearance projects across the town. Crompton Building Supplies has also donated half a tonne of grit to the scheme.
Mrs MacLeod added: “The team has been ever so friendly, they’ve even pushed cars and vans that were stuck on the car park to get them free.
“It’s a real punishment, I wouldn’t want to be out there in this weather chipping ice.
“Myself and the residents are all thrilled to bits.”
She called the Justice Seen, Justice Done hotline to recommend the project, which was then carried out by the Community Payback team, run by Greater Manchester Probation Trust.
Councillor Sufrana Bashir-Ismail, Executive Member for Cleaner, Greener, Safer, said: “We are delighted that the Community Payback teams gave assistance to vulnerable older residents who have been isolated in their homes following the severe weather conditions.
“This complements the previous and ongoing work that Community Payback has been doing to improve the environment and benefit the communities of Bolton.”
Steve Dyson, Community Payback Officer, added: “We are delighted to help, and will be carrying out similar projects on Sunday and for as long as the snow lasts.
“The offenders have done themselves proud by the amount of work they have put in during freezing temperatures, and they are clearly paying pack to the community against which they offended.”
Members of the public are encouraged to recommend projects for Community Payback on 01204 335500 or payback@bolton.gov.uk