The New Pioneers Men’s Lab is a grassroots community initiative based in Rochdale and Heywood, focused on supporting men’s mental and physical wellbeing through inclusive group activities, peer support, and positive social engagement. The aim was to create a safe, welcoming space where men of different ages, backgrounds, and life experiences could connect with others, engage in healthy habits, and build resilience in a non-judgemental environment.
The project addresses the increasing issue of male social isolation, particularly among those from marginalised or low-income backgrounds. Many of the participants face barriers to wellbeing, whether through unemployment, poor mental health, or limited access to support. Men’s Lab was created to empower individuals to take ownership of their wellbeing and to foster community cohesion through meaningful, low-pressure activities.
The Men’s Lab meets regularly for a variety of sessions tailored to the group’s needs and interests. These include fitness classes, nature walks, outdoor activities, and creative workshops, often led by community volunteers or local professionals. One of the core principles is peer support – men are encouraged to share their experiences, listen without judgement, and build connections through honest conversation and shared challenges.
A key development in the project’s growth has been the partnership with Calder Valley Line Community Rail Partnership and Northern Trains, which provided the group with Community Rail Train Passes. This enabled members to take part in group train trips to places like Hebden Bridge and Blackpool – destinations they may not have otherwise been able to access.
These journeys offered more than a change of scenery. They became opportunities for bonding, stress relief, and community connection. For many men in the group, stepping outside of the daily routine and travelling as a group helped them to reconnect with the wider world, reduce anxiety, and find joy in shared experiences. Train travel also removed the cost barrier, making the programme accessible and inclusive.
The Men’s Lab has had a clear and measurable positive impact. Participants have reported improvements in confidence, mental clarity, physical health, and motivation to try new things. Many have formed friendships and support networks that extend beyond the group sessions. For some, Men’s Lab was a first step in re-engaging with their community or seeking further help for mental health concerns. From a sustainability perspective, the project encourages low-carbon travel, promotes active lifestyles, and fosters local partnerships that create lasting social
value. The use of public transport aligns with the goals of reducing isolation without increasing environmental impact, showing how wellbeing initiatives and sustainability can go hand in hand. The project also reflects broader social change by challenging stigma around men’s mental health and showing the power of community-based, culturally sensitive responses to wellbeing.
The New Pioneers Men’s Lab is a shining example of community-led, sustainable change. It shows how simple tools – shared spaces, peer connection, and access to public transport – can make a profound difference in people’s lives.
We’re thrilled to share the fantastic news that Friends of Sowerby Bridge Railway Station have been awarded Gold and Best in Category for Railway Stations and Transport Hubs at the Yorkshire in Bloom Awards 2025, held on Thursday 25th September.
This prestigious recognition is a testament to the dedication, creativity, and care shown by the incredible volunteers who lovingly tend to the station. Their efforts ensure Sowerby Bridge remains not only a vital transport link but also a welcoming and attractive space for the many passengers who pass through every day.
A heartfelt thank you to all involved for your ongoing commitment — your work continues to bloom brightly and inspire our entire community.
We’re delighted to celebrate Todmorden’s golden success at the Yorkshire in Bloom 2025 awards! The town proudly received a Gold Award and was crowned Best Large Community, recognising the dedication and creativity that make Todmorden truly shine.
A special congratulations goes to our charming scarecrow entry, Jean, who won in the Dig for Victory category – a lovely nod to community spirit and green-fingered fun.
These awards reflect the incredible effort of all the volunteers, supporters, and local champions who help make Todmorden beautiful year-round. Your hard work has not gone unnoticed.
Three cheers for Todmorden – a town that truly blooms with pride!
We were proud to join Friends of Littleborough Stations (FOLS) and members of the local community in marking 40 years since the reopening of Smithy Bridge Station. First reopened in 1985, the station has become a much-loved hub, connecting people, places, and memories for four decades.
Held at Smithy Bridge Methodist Church, the celebration was a heart-warming tribute to all those who campaigned for the station’s return and those who continue to support its role today. The event was beautifully organised by FOLS – with special thanks to Richard Lysons, whose passion and dedication made the day truly memorable.
We were honoured to welcome a number of distinguished guests, including Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Janet Emsley, Marilyn Ogden, MP Paul Waugh, members of the Northern team, and Karen Hornby from the Calder Valley Line Community Rail Partnership. Each shared reflections on the station’s past, its importance to local travel, and its bright future ahead.
As Marilyn Ogden reminded us, the reopening wasn’t without resistance – some councillors initially opposed the idea. But community belief and perseverance won the day, and Smithy Bridge Station has since become a key part of the Calder Valley Line and wider network.
Today, the station is more than just a place to catch a train – it’s a community asset, brought to life by volunteers, residents, and local groups who maintain its welcoming presence. Events like these remind us how stations can reflect and nurture the communities they serve.
As we look to the future, exciting changes are on the horizon. From 2028, Rochdale Station will be integrated into the Bee Network, Greater Manchester’s new transport system with seamless tap-in, tap-out technology and integrated fares. Smithy Bridge and Littleborough will follow in 2030, bringing even greater accessibility and opportunity to local passengers.
A huge thank you goes to everyone who helped make this celebration special – from those who reopened the station 40 years ago, to the dedicated volunteers who care for it today. Here’s to many more years of connection, collaboration, and community at Smithy Bridge Station!
New Artwork from Local Pupils Brightens Up the Station
Low Moor Station is now full of colour and creativity, thanks to the fantastic pupils from Low Moor C. of E. Primary School.
Working together with the Calder Valley Line Community Rail Partnership, the pupils created a series of cheerful and imaginative artworks that are now on display at the station. Their work adds a welcoming and friendly feel to the space for passengers and the local community.
This lovely project shows how important it is to involve young people in shaping public spaces. From ideas to finished artwork, the pupils showed great enthusiasm and creativity.
A big thank you to all the pupils and staff involved – your artwork has really brightened up Low Moor Station!
The aim of this project was to create a practical, accessible learning resource that helps members of the public understand how to use Northern Trains’ automatic ticket machines — a process that can often be intimidating or confusing, particularly for older passengers, individuals with additional learning needs, or those unfamiliar with rail travel in the UK.
The project was developed through a unique partnership between Calderdale College, Calder Valley Line Community Rail Partnership, and Northern Trains, with a focus on youth involvement, digital skills development, and community support.
Young people were placed at the heart of this initiative. A group of media and digital skills students aged 16–19 were invited to plan, script, film, and edit a short video tutorial explaining how to purchase a train ticket using the Northern Trains’ self-service ticket machine. Through this task, the students were not only supporting wider community accessibility but also building their own confidence and workplace-ready skills.
The overall aim was two-fold:
What Happened
Over the course of several weeks, students from Calderdale College’s media and digital studies programme worked in teams to create the video tutorial. They were supported by teaching staff, the Calder Valley Line Community Rail Partnership team, and Northern Trains, who provided access to ticket machines and advice on ticketing processes.
The project began with a planning phase, where students researched common difficulties faced by rail passengers when using ticket machines. Many noted that unclear menus, unfamiliar payment options, and lack of guidance made the machines especially challenging for people with limited English, older people, and those without prior experience of rail travel.
From there, the students developed a storyboard and script, keeping in mind the need for clarity, simplicity, and friendly tone. Filming took place at a local station with Northern’s ticket machine. Students acted both in front of and behind the camera, learning how to operate filming equipment, take clear shots, manage sound, and guide a narrative.
After filming, the teams moved into the post-production phase, editing the footage using industry-standard software. The result was a polished, easy-to-follow video that now lives on YouTube and community rail digital channels, and is being shared via social media, community events, and school engagement programmes.
Throughout the process, students were supported not just as learners, but as collaborators — contributing their voices, ideas, and energy to a resource that continues to make a real difference.
Results
The impact of this project was felt on multiple levels. For the students, it was a chance to work on a real-world assignment that showcased their abilities. Many reported improved confidence, teamwork, presentation skills, and technical expertise. It gave them a tangible portfolio piece and helped them understand the value of community-focused work.
The video has also proven to be a valuable resource for passengers of all ages and backgrounds. Community rail groups, schools, and social care networks have begun sharing the video with those who may be apprehensive about travelling by train. It has helped break down a barrier to travel that often goes unnoticed — the uncertainty of how to buy a ticket.
Importantly, this project is an excellent example of meaningful youth engagement in community rail. Rather than simply being consulted or included at the last stage, the young people led the project from start to finish. Their creativity, insight, and digital skills helped address a practical community need, while the partnership with Northern Trains ensured the project’s relevance and reach.
This initiative shows how engaging young people in purposeful, supported projects not only builds their skills and confidence, but also creates lasting tools for inclusion and accessibility. It embodies the spirit of community rail — connecting people, breaking down barriers, and helping the next generation contribute to public life in ways that are both empowering and impactful.
New Pioneers Project welcomed guests to a heartwarming Summer Garden Party held at the beautiful Spotland Community Centre Gardens in Rochdale. It was a day filled with sunshine, community spirit, and shared memories — a true celebration of life, growth, and local connection.
The event brought together friends, neighbours, and special guests, including the Mayor of Rochdale, who officially opened the gardens in honour of Veronica Jessop (also known as Farhat Choudhury). Veronica was a much-loved local figure, known for her tireless dedication to supporting families and strengthening the community. Her legacy of compassion and determination continues to inspire those who knew her.
Guests enjoyed a relaxed afternoon outdoors, complete with delicious food — burgers, chips, and great company. Volunteers from the New Pioneers team prepared the meal with love, bringing everyone around the table to celebrate friendship and remember a true community champion.
It was particularly moving to hear stories from Veronica’s family, who shared reflections on her work and the many lives she touched. The garden, now thriving with colour and care, stands as a lasting tribute to her generous spirit and the support she offered to so many.
This event was also a chance to showcase the strength of community partnerships. The Calder Valley Line Community Rail Partnership was proud to support this event as part of our ongoing commitment to encouraging community connection, wellbeing, and inclusion through rail-linked projects and spaces.
From a vibrant garden in Spotland to train-connected neighbourhoods across the Calder Valley, moments like this remind us of the power of local people coming together — to honour the past, celebrate the present, and grow something meaningful for the future.
A special celebration took place in Rochdale this weekend, marking the official unveiling of Rose Hope – a beautiful new public artwork commissioned by the Calder Valley Line Community Rail Partnership as part of Rochdale’s Town of Culture 2025/26.
Set against the backdrop of our local railway heritage, this project reflects the spirit of connection, creativity and optimism that runs through our work across the Calder Valley.
Rose Hope was designed with community in mind – a collaborative effort that celebrates not only art in public spaces but also the people who bring them to life. The unveiling was a joyful occasion filled with colour and energy. Families and volunteers from the New Pioneers Project were at the heart of the day, sharing in the festivities and reminding us of the importance of inclusion and togetherness.
There was live music, party bags for the children, delicious refreshments, and most importantly, a strong sense of community pride. The event brought together local residents, artists, and supporters in a shared celebration of what can be achieved when creativity meets collaboration.
We extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who took part and supported this project – from its conception to this unforgettable launch event. Together, we are continuing to shape welcoming, vibrant spaces across the Calder Valley Line.
New Pioneers Project Men’s Lab from Spotland, Rochdale, enjoyed a fantastic day out with a train trip to one of the most charming towns along the Calder Valley Line – Hebden Bridge.
For many members of the Men’s Lab, this wasn’t just about a change of scenery – it was about connection, exploration, and community. Travelling together by train allowed the group to enjoy the scenic journey, share personal stories, and simply spend quality time with one another outside of their usual routine.
Once in Hebden Bridge, the group spent the day exploring the town’s independent shops, riverside views, and cultural landmarks. The relaxed pace of the trip encouraged conversation, laughter, and reflection — all essential to the project’s mission of promoting mental wellbeing, social confidence, and active lifestyles for men in the community.
These kinds of rail-enabled experiences are at the heart of what community rail is all about: making train travel more accessible, inclusive, and meaningful for everyone. By supporting groups like the New Pioneers Men’s Lab, the Calder Valley Line Community Rail Partnership continues to connect people not only to places — but also to each other.
We’re proud to have supported this uplifting journey and look forward to many more community connections on the line.
