FROM making Christmas presents on a shoestring to batch cooking and repairing old clothes, a new series of free workshops is coming to Ashton Library to help make your money go further.
The sessions will cover a range of practical skills, including budgeting, affordable cooking, clothing repairs and upcycling, with advice available for people facing financial difficulties.
The programme is being funded through the Crisis and Resilience Fund and was initially aimed at a targeted audience before being opened up to the wider public.
Alongside the workshops, residents will also be able to access regular drop-in sessions and pop-up stalls run by local support organisations.
The upcoming sessions include:
- Shashiko Mending – Monday, November 2, 10am to midday
- Eat Well for Less – Wednesday, November 4, 10am to midday
- Applique Makeover – Monday, November 9, 10am to midday
- Batch Cooking on a Budget – Wednesday, November 11, 10am to midday
- Christmas Gifts from Scraps – Monday, November 16, 10am to midday
- Make Every Penny Count – Wednesday, November 18, 10am to midday
- Cooking Without a Fridge – Wednesday, November 25, 10am to midday

All sessions will take place at Ashton Library and are free to attend, although booking is essential as places are limited. Bookings open two weeks before each individual session.
Councillor Hugh Roderick, Tameside Council’s Executive Member for Finance and Resources, said: “The Helping Hand workshops are a great opportunity for residents to pick up money-saving tips, learn new skills and connect with local support services. We encourage anyone interested to book a place and come along.”
Councillor Leanne Feeley, Executive Member for Lifelong Learning and Culture, added: “This is the start of a fantastic programme that will be delivered across Tameside’s libraries. We know many residents will benefit from these sessions, which are a great addition to the activities and support already available through our libraries.”
The programme aims to make practical money-saving advice and support more accessible to residents, while giving people the chance to learn useful skills that could help ease pressure on household budgets.
To find out more and book a place, visit www.eventbrite.com/cc/helping-hand-workshops-4872804/


