Rochdale Christmas Toy Appeal returns to brighten festive season for children in need

Wednesday, 12 November 2025 12:22

By David Murphy

Thousands of vulnerable children in Rochdale are set to receive festive cheer again this year, as the council's annual Christmas Toy Appeal launches with collection points across the borough.

Rochdale Borough Council has launched its 12th annual Christmas Toy Appeal, calling on residents to donate new, unwrapped gifts to support children from low income families. Organised by the council’s staff-run Giving Back charity, the campaign runs until Friday 12 December.

The appeal has become a vital lifeline for families struggling through the cost-of-living crisis. Last year, a record 7,000 toys were distributed to children who might otherwise have gone without. Donations can be left at local libraries, Your Trust leisure centres, or designated drop-off points including the Rochdale Riverside management office, The Trade Centre UK at Sandbrook Park, and The Hornet on Helmsman Lane.

Council policy advisor Helen Walton, who founded the appeal and was awarded a British Empire Medal for her efforts, said:

“Every single donation ensures a child has a gift to unwrap, something that might not happen otherwise. For many families this winter, Christmas is something they simply can’t afford.”

Organisers are encouraging the public to buy sustainable presents and to shop locally. Gifts for babies and teenagers are especially needed, as these age groups received fewer donations in previous years. Suitable gifts can also be ordered online and sent directly to the appeal’s base at Number One Riverside.

Councillor Rachel Massey, cabinet member for children’s services and education, urged residents to join the effort:

“No child should wake up without a gift on Christmas morning. The kindness I see each year is overwhelming. You can bring magic to a local child’s life just by buying one extra present.”

Since launching in 2013, the appeal has delivered festive gifts to thousands of children and teenagers across Rochdale. This year’s campaign is again supported by Rochdale Football Club, Your Trust, and a growing number of local businesses, including STM Agency, Hunter Price and The Trade Centre UK.

Donate to Roch Valley Radio

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something happening in our Borough?

Let us know by emailing newsdesk@rochvalleyradio.com

All contact will be treated in confidence.

More from Local News

Rochdale Council chief exec accused of ‘grinding’ on young care leaver during drunken awards night

Rochdale council is under pressure after it emerged that its chief executive, James Binks, was subject to a disciplinary investigation into inappropriate behaviour toward a young female graduate during his previous role at Manchester City Council.
Michael Bamford named Man of Rochdale 2025 for outstanding community service

Michael Bamford, the founder of Re-Use Littleborough, has been named the Man of Rochdale 2025 in recognition of his tireless efforts to support those in need both locally and abroad.
Decision made on rebuilding homes destroyed by massive gas explosion

Three terraced houses destroyed in a huge gas explosion are to be rebuilt ‘like-for-like’. The homes, on Nelson Street in the Fishpool area of Bury were at the centre of a major blast at around 11am on February 28, 2024.
Hundreds of new homes controversially approved for Littleborough

Hundreds of homes will be built on former green belt land in the heart of Littleborough.
Man arrested at Manchester Airport in Heaton Park synagogue terror probe

A seventh person has been arrested in connection with the deadly terrorist attack on Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue, Greater Manchester Police have confirmed.
Teenage musician sets sights on top Manchester music college

BUDDING performer Isla Connell has been singing and playing instruments since primary school and is now hoping to land a place at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester.
Heywood AODS honours retiring President after 40 years at the helm

Heywood Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society has paid tribute to its long-serving President, Keith Greenwood, during a surprise celebration marking his retirement after four decades of dedicated leadership.
Businesses warned of budget ‘moment of truth’ as tax fears mount

A senior insolvency expert has warned that businesses in Rochdale and across the UK are facing a pivotal week, with fears that the upcoming budget could unleash damaging tax hikes across multiple sectors.
Fire and light transform Rochdale as Christmas countdown begins

More than 10,000 people visit town hall for spectacular three-day festival and lights switch-on
Man arrested after pedestrian hit in serious collision in Bury town centre

A man has been arrested on suspicion of drug driving after a pedestrian was struck by a vehicle at a major junction in Bury town centre.
Mayor reflects on a busy first half-year of community, culture and commemoration

I am halfway through my mayoral year and it has been an inspiring and insightful six months. I have been to every part of the community, across our township areas of the Pennines, Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale, visiting businesses, schools, care settings, charities, voluntary organisations, seeing at first-hand what makes our borough the amazing place it is to live, work and grow up in.
Reform UK councillor backtracks after falsely claiming Roch Valley Radio insulted him

A Rochdale councillor has retracted a claim he made on social media, after attributing a critical remark to Roch Valley Radio without verifying the source.