A REHAB charity has launched a campaign to help vulnerable people tackle the effects of isolation and loneliness during lockdown.

Street Soccer Academy is raising funds for a ‘Connections Centre’ at the charity’s new HQ at The Mill on Bury Road.

The centre will help people who are suffering from complex needs - including homelessness, mental health problems - as well as ex-offenders and people recovering from addiction.

Since 2005, the venture has worked with thousands of individuals across the north west, currently providing help and support to around 400 people across Greater Manchester and Lancashire.

Simon Murphy, chief operating officer, from Breightmet, said: “Above all else the one thing 2020 taught us all is the value of human interaction. Those moments in our everyday life, that we all probably take for granted, that make our very existence manageable.

“For most of us, these connections exist throughout the many layers of our lives, whether it’s the very intimate interaction we enjoy with our close family and friends or the more professional exchange that exists with work colleagues or business contacts.

“For many of our beneficiaries these vital connections are either non-existent or dysfunctional.”

The centre will allow the charity to work with service users to help them reach their full potential, while maintaining sustainable, healthy lifestyles. The charity helps individuals work through issues related to homelessness, physical and mental health problems, unemployment and learning needs.

Service users are referred onto the academy's programmes by the NHS, accommodation providers and the Job Centre before they engage in a coach education and personal development programme.

Simon added: “As with many sports clubs the involvement in team sports allows for meaningful relationships to develop and positions of trust to be established between service users, staff and volunteers.

“It is from these relationships that the charity works with beneficiaries to try and address the needs that hold them back from achieving their full potential in life.”

The fundraiser has so far reached £795 of its £2,500 target.

Those wishing to support the campaign can donate here.