Our second Let’s Talk About Our Kids session was held at Mill About, a beautiful unique coffee shop and bar at Spotland Bridge Mill. The event was full of energy, ideas and imagination as people from across the borough came together to think about what is possible for Rochdale’s children and young people.
Building on the momentum of the first conversation, this session gave people the chance to connect, explore the key themes shared last time and dig deeper into what it would take to turn ideas into something real.
Talking about what really matters
Around the room, conversations were based on important themes including:
- Confidence and self-esteem
- Family and home life
- Pathways into crime
- Joy and belonging
There was a strong sense of hope and opportunity, as well as responsibility, with everyone recognising the role they can play in building a future where every young person feels valued, supported and able to thrive.
Passionate discussions also looked at practical ways to make the borough more inclusive for children, including the need for accessible playground equipment and facilities in every park across the borough, creating spaces where all children can play, learn and feel part of the community.
Cultural food festivals were highlighted as a brilliant way for people from different backgrounds to meet, mix and celebrate the diversity of the borough. There were shared memories of black peas, a popular Rochdale dish. People also talked about the importance of keeping community spirit alive, backing each other up and volunteering for initiatives that benefit everyone.
A night that brought people together
Just like the first session, the evening was far from a traditional meeting. The red curtain material on each table was a reminder to leave work titles at the door and set the tone for open, honest conversation.
To help spark creativity, we used Uno cards, Mario character cards and even Monopoly money when an idea needed a bit of imaginary investment. Laughter, curiosity and shared purpose filled the room.
By the end of the evening, people stood up to share their ideas with the group. It was brilliant to see ideas connect and evolve as others added their unique perspectives. That sense of collective energy, of people genuinely listening and building together was what made the night so powerful.
Richard Harris from Target Fire Protection captured the feeling perfectly:
“What inspired me most? The energy in the room. Ideas flowing. People ready to make change happen. This is just the beginning – a journey to create a future where every young person feels valued and empowered.”
What’s next?
It was fantastic to see so many people keen to meet again. We will be pulling everything together and sharing the next steps shortly, including details for the next meet-up.
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