Our Projects
Christian Restoration Manchester runs various community projects to support and uplift those in need throughout Greater Manchester.
Asylum Seekers
CRM has been running projects that support over 630 Black African men, women, young people and the wider community in one-to-one support projects, group activities and emergency support in Blackley, Greater Manchester. We do this by bringing people together men, women, youths and older people—in inclusive spaces where support and collaboration thrives. Our space connects people of all ages and backgrounds, fostering understanding and unity.
Read more →No More Knives
Knife crime and the devastating impact it has on lives is never far from the headlines. The No More Knives tour is heading into high schools to show young people there is another way. We partnered with local churches combining music with powerful stories and teaching. We deliver lessons and assemblies that equip young people with the skills and knowledge they need to say no to knives and start to discover their full value and identity. And all this is done in partnership with the local police force and Councils.
Coffee Drop In
We are excited to say that we have resumed our Coffee Drop In again. We meet in our building Hall at 451 Victoria Avenue, Blackley, M9 8PJ every Wednesday from 11am to 3pm. Feel free to come and join us for a coffee/tea and chat. If there is anything you think we can help you with or give you some guidance on, come along and ask. We will always try to answer and help you there and then but if not we will find a way to help. The Coffee Drop In is also for anyone wanting to pop in for some company and a friendly chat.
No County Lines
County lines is not a new thing. You may have heard about it on the news or in TV shows like Hollyoaks. But beyond the headlines and scripts, it's a stark reality for many young people. Here we unpack the truth about County Lines and how we work to restore the hopes of children being forced to carry drugs across the country.
Community Foodbank
We have been running a Community Food Bank for 15 years. When the announcement came in March 2020 that the UK went into a lockdown, we were able to support over 2,500 families in North Manchester partnering with Manchester City Council. Our goal was to support families, the poor and vulnerable in our communities who had been hit hardest by the financial impact of Covid-19. Read more →
MEN, WOMEN & YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
We have found many of the people we know in our community struggling with Depression, Anxiety, stress, and other disorders. Sometimes it is difficult to know if someone is struggling, as it can be hard for people to open up to others about their mental health, even if they want to. But you might have noticed changes in a friend, family member or colleague, or know that they have gone through a hard time recently.
Whether you've noticed that they are struggling or they've opened up to you about their mental health, it can still be hard to know what to do or say. Here are some simple things that could help:
Initiating the Conversation
Starting a conversation about mental health can be a big, daunting step. If you're not feeling confident, starting small with a "how are you" or sending a funny video and letting them know you're thinking of them can be helpful. Checking in with them often can encourage them to share how they're feeling.
If you're feeling up for it, find a calm and comfortable environment to talk, and say something like, "Hey, I've noticed you've been going through a tough time. Do you want to talk about it?" Opening up can be a relief, and knowing you're there to listen can mean the world to your friend or family member.
Practicing Active Listening and Empathy
When your friend or family member opens up, be an active listener. Put away distractions and show you're listening and that you care by paying attention.
Sometimes, even if you don't fully understand what they're going through, it can make a huge different just to let them speak without being judged. You can say things like, "That must be so difficult," "I really get why it made you feel that way," and "I'm here for you". Remind them that it's okay to feel the way they do and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Focusing on Self-Care
Supporting someone you care about can be emotionally intense, so make sure you take care of yourself too. Set boundaries for when and how you can support your friend if it gets overwhelming. Remember to make time for things you love and to recharge yourself too. Speaking to a trusted adult or a mental health professional yourself can also be helpful.
Sharing Personal Experiences
Sometimes, sharing your own experiences can make others feel more comfortable opening up. It helps to know that we're not alone in our struggles. At the same time, as the conversation is about supporting them, remember to focus on listening to them and avoid turning it into a discussion about yourself.
It's important to remember that while you can do all of this perfectly, it is your friend or family member's choice if they want to open up to you, and when and how they wish to do it. Be patient with them and know that all you can do is provide them with the space and time.
CRM Football Club
Our flagship football project in Greater Manchester gives an opportunity to reach 100 young people every week through football. We are an FA registered football Club and we play in the South Manchester and North Manchester football Leagues. We understand the transformative power of sports in shaping young minds and bodies. Football, in particular, stands out as an activity that offers an array of physical, mental, and social benefits for young people.
Musical Instrument Schools
We are excited to say that we provide guitar lessons, keyboard lessons, drum lessons in Higher Blackley Manchester! We really believe that anyone can learn how to play a musical instrument. This is why we offer these lessons to everyone from beginners to advanced players. We tailor our lessons to fit around your age and level. Improving confidence is just as important as improving technique. That's why we continuously give encouragement and advice to all our pupils to enhance their skills, therefore providing them with an enjoyable and worthwhile experience.
Higher Blackley Boxing Club
Below please find information about the boxing club and if you would like to join. The club can only accept members bookings by email. For more information please contact Ben on benjamindgort@hotmail.com with your name and the sessions you would like to book. Sessions need to be booked up to 7 days in advance.