A LEIGH based charity was given a shout out by Labour leader Kier Starmer in a speech declaring to get "Britain's future back".

Earlier this month, Leigh and Atherton Labour candidate Jo Platt welcomed Keir Starmer to the North West to meet business and community leaders for a roundtable discussion about Labour’s five missions for government.

The meeting included charity and business representatives from Leigh, with Compassion in Action making such an impression on the Labour Leader that it was mentioned in his speech on civil society at St John's Church in London.

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Leigh Journal: Leigh and Atherton Labour candidate Jo Platt welcomed Keir Starmer to the North WestLeigh and Atherton Labour candidate Jo Platt welcomed Keir Starmer to the North West (Image: Labour)
In his speech about the benefits of civil society and the "people on the ground with skin in the game", the Leigh Road charity was mentioned as a standout story that offers hope and support to local residents.

Mr Starmer said: "There is [an]other story. The story that gives me hope. The story of ordinary people in this country doing what our government hasn’t done. Looking out for each other. Looking after one another.  

"The story of charities that have met the needs of local people – like Compassion in Action. 

"I met the founder, Pam, a couple of weeks ago, and she told me how it started. Initially as a foodbank and now as a hub for the local community providing food, accommodation, and training for those who need it. 

"Everywhere I go, I hear stories of courage, compassion and community. Stories of service that could fill every paper in the country."

Leigh Journal: Leigh Leopards players dropping off donations for the charity's Christmas appealLeigh Leopards players dropping off donations for the charity's Christmas appeal (Image: Compassion in Action)
Founded in 2006 in Lowton, Compassion in Action has been involved in countless community projects over the years such as foodbank initiatives, Christmas present appeals, accommodation signposting, training programmes, furniture and clothing donations, and mental health support.

Working across Leigh, Atherton, and Lowton, the group was awarded The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2014 and featured in the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Pageant Album and King Charles' Coronation and 75th Birthday Commemorative Album.