Families at Bishopton Community Centre made Diwali cards, decorations and clay lamps at an Orbit event. The organiser says it brought neighbours together.
Families in Bishopton made colourful Diwali cards, decorations and clay lamps at a celebration in Bishopton Community Centre, run by the housing provider Orbit.
The event was organised by Poonam Chaudhry, Orbit’s Community Coach for Stratford. It was a chance for residents to learn more about Diwali, the Festival of Lights, which is celebrated over five days by Hindus, Jains and Sikhs and marks the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.
Children spent the session making lamps and decorations, and the hall was dressed with garlands, bells and a table laid out for the festival.
“A lovely way to bring neighbours together”
Ms Chaudhry said: “It was wonderful to see children and families coming together to celebrate Diwali and learn more about what the festival means.
“Events like this are a lovely way to bring neighbours together, celebrate the different cultures and traditions within our communities, and give children the opportunity to learn while having fun.
“The children really enjoyed getting creative with their cards and lamps, and it was great to see everyone getting involved. This event forms part of Orbit’s wider commitment to supporting inclusive communities and creating opportunities for people to connect with their neighbours.”
One resident who went along said: “We don’t explore religions and beliefs as much in the community as a whole, so it’s nice to see Orbit taking a stand on inclusivity and togetherness.”
Among those who joined in was Bishopton resident Ann Pye.
Help on offer for Orbit tenants
Staff from Orbit’s local team were at the centre to talk to people about Better Days, its free support programme for Orbit customers. Orbit says it covers employment and training, managing money, mental health and other issues.
Orbit is a not-for-profit housing group. It says it has more than 46,000 affordable and social rent homes across the Midlands, the East and the South of England, and supports more than 100,000 customers.
What it means for you
If you rent from Orbit in Bishopton or elsewhere in Stratford, the Better Days help is free: details are on the Orbit customer hub.
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