Testimonials

The restoration of Memorial Park has far surpassed my expectations, both in the quality of the improvements and the remarkable level of community interest and engagement throughout the project’s development. This initiative has fostered valuable partnerships between the Friends of Memorial Park, the local school, the Great Harwood Branch of the Royal British Legion, and the local Council’s Parks Service. As the Chair of the Friends of Memorial Park expressed, it has also helped to reignite a strong sense of community spirit within the town. The project’s success has been a key factor in the park earning the prestigious Green Flag Award for 2024-2025, setting a new standard for excellence that will serve as a benchmark in the years to come. Mark Cassell-Pickup – Senior Parks Development Officer, Hyndburn Borough Council – September 2024.

”This popular, riverside footpath linking into Burrs Country Park has suffered with waterlogged conditions for several years. There have been logistical problems, such as the need to gain access across private farmland and the proximity of the Irwell that have prevented any meaningful improvements to the path. Rachael and Martin took on the project, liaised with the contractor and the landowner and facilitated drainage improvements ,resurfacing, revetment and partial clearance of the path together with the replacement of damaged fencing. All this was achieved to the satisfaction of the landowner and to the benefit of the many users of the path who no longer need to wear wellington boots to use the path. Hundreds of compliments have been paid by those users, both when out using the path and on social media. The project would not have been possible without the knowledge and professionalism of the contactor and the organisational and diplomacy skills of Rachael and Martin.” David Chadwick – Public Rights of Way Officer, Bury Council – May 2024.

”It has been brilliant working with Proffitts, they took away so much stress and as a small community group we don’t have the capacity or expertise to do many of the things they have done for us, like bid writing, community consultation and developing plans, maps and costings, Its been a tremendous help and the playground the community now has is fabulous and much celebrated. It brings us together and is a meeting place for all ages which was exactly what the community group wanted. Martin and Rachael are so easy to work with and we have learnt so much from the experience of working with them.” Emma Speed – Summerseat Village Collective – April 2024.

”Civic Pride Rossendale have liaised with Rachel and Martin throughout the project. Due to Covid and changes in land ownership the process has been more drawn out than it normally would have been. Civic Pride Rossendale were kept involved and kept in the loop at all times, and Rachel and Martin are always very courteous and attentive to any queries we ever have. The contractors that carried out the task worked hard in difficult climatic conditions in the run up to Christmas, taking pride in the work they were carrying out, and were always cheerful with us. There are still a few jobs left to do but these are due to waiting for the correct time of the year to carry them out. Proffitts were key to translating the vision we had for this footpath into a reality, and I look forward to seeing the flourishing planting there in the years to come. Equally I look forward to working with the team on future projects.” Sue Shuttleworth – Chair, Civic Pride Rossendale – May 2023.

”Proffitts have worked alongside St Anne’s PCC for the past year to assist in the process of obtaining a substantial grant to fund key elements that need repair/refurbishment in our church. We have been enormously impressed with Proffitts enthusiasm on this project, and without their guidance we would not have obtained grant funds. We always found Proffitts to be extremely courteous and polite; quick to reply and politely persistent in chasing us to do what was needed. We look forward to taking this project forward in the next few months and would recommend the services of Proffitts to any organization who are looking to raise funds from external sources.” St. Anne’s PCC – August 2022.

”Just a quick note to say a very memorable day yesterday when my 5 year old mastered riding her bike with no pedals or stabilizers. Got me learning a little about the history of Clod Lane Park. It is a lovely clean and peaceful place. Thank you so much for your efforts.” Local Resident – Haslingden – June 2022.

”The team from Proffitts was a key part of delivering this project within very challenging timescales. They enabled effective community involvement and helped to develop proposals well-suited to individual sites. Responsive, friendly and professional, working with Martin, Rachael and Clare is like having an extended team.” Anne Hourican – Senior Environmental Initiatives Officer, Hyndburn Borough Council – June 2022.

”Proffitts were engaged by the Project Team with the aim of bringing the Ramsbottom War Memorial Project to a final successful conclusion. Rachael and Martin took to the task with enthusiasm and professionalism. Their work with the Team and their interaction with Bury Council and the Manchester Diocese of the Church of England undoubtedly provided much needed impetus We are highly delighted with the result.” Martin Wiggam – Ramsbottom Memorial Project – April 2022.

“Once again, many thanks to Rachael and all at Proffitts for managing this project on our behalf. We’re always confident using Proffitts knowing that they have the knowledge and experience to cover the design specification, tender and then on-site management of the works with contractors. And they’re also very nice people to work with too!” Mike Stapleford – Charity Manager & Social Enterprise Development – Prospects Foundation – July 2021.

“The play area in Newchurch had been neglected for some time and members of the Newchurch Village Community Association took it upon themselves to do something about it but had no idea how to go about it. Proffitts came on board and guided us through the whole process from start to finish; they helped with form filling, grant applications, designs for the play area, tendering for contracts and then were there every step of the way during the build. The end results are amazing and I would thoroughly recommend Proffitts to any Community Groups looking to improve their local area”. Simone Cudworth – Newchurch Village Community Association – March 2021.

“The success of the Stoops wheeled sports area could not have been achieved without the support and expertise of Martin Proffitt, who helped to develop the project, led the design consultation with young people, secured over £125,000 of funding and helped manage the project through to completion”. Simon Goff – Head of Green Spaces and Amenities – Burnley Borough Council – November 2019.

“Martin played a crucial role in the design & development of the plans for Hargher Clough Park, which included identifying & accessing various sources of funding. He displayed a detailed understanding of the processes needed to engage local people in an effective manner & I am happy to offer a very positive recommendation for Martin & Proffitt’s CIC”. Chris Keene – Director – Stoops and Hargher Clough Community Centre – November 2019.

“Northwich Town Council have worked with Proffitts over the last few years and have always found them to be professional, efficient and knowledgeable. Our last project involved a total transformation of the Northwich Cenotaph which encountered some issues due to the nature of the project. However these issues were resolved quickly so that the project could meet its completion deadline of Remembrance Day. I would have no hesitation in using Proffitts for any future projects.” Chris Shaw – Town Clerk – February 2019.

”Well done Martin and Proffitts – a really friendly, innovative, efficient and community orientated organisation. Hopefully, work with you again in the future on another project in Pendle!” Kieron Roberts – Service Development Officer, Parks & Recreation (Environmental & Recreation Services) – September 2018.

”The team at Proffitts – Investing in Communities have helped the Greenmount Village Community group complete a Play Area project that we have struggled to get off the ground some time. They worked with us to secure the last stage of funding, after 4 years of trying which amounted to 40% of the budget. This single act helped the Community move from desire to outcome. Proffitts then helped take our ideas and design the play area, introduced us to reliable contractors and worked with all of the partner organisations to manage the on-site work from start to finish. Even when Martin and Rachael were presented with unforeseen problems – including the arrival of “The Beast from the East” – they worked hard to make sure that everything was delivered on time, and to budget. Our village now has a wonderful new play area that the residents and visitors are thrilled with. We’ve transformed a tired, unused area in to an area full of fun and laughter for local families. Proffitts are a small team, but they can accomplish a lot with their drive and determination from help with securing funds right through to making local spaces better for everyone who lives here.” Alistair Waddell – Chairman Greenmount Village Community – May 2018.

”Having worked with Proffitts on previous projects we knew when Greenmount Village Community Association requested their team came on board that we would have trustworthy, professional people to work with; and they certainly didn’t disappoint. The project really moved on when Proffitts joined the team.” Mike Bent – Parks and Countryside Manager, Bury Council – May 2018.

“Everyone at Peers Clough would like to say a very big thank you to all involved with the Build the Past dry stone wall project held here this spring. It was undoubtedly the highlight of our year. We met so many enthusiastic volunteers and we loved welcoming the children from Water school to learn about their area and heritage. Alan Rhodes, the master waller did a superb job, building, teaching and revealing to us the wildlife and geology on our doorstep. Making a connection with the Larks of Dean quire was very special, and of course none of it would have been possible without the team from Proffitts and Heritage Lottery. Thank you so much”. Chris Thomas – Peers Clough – October 2017.

“I was lucky enough to get an opportunity to fulfill a lifetime ambition to learn and hopefully acquire some skills in the art of Dry Stone Walling. I was only able to attend on two days but the whole experience, with such an excellent Tutor and craftsman, lived up to all my expectations. I came away with the confidence to attempt my own projects, having benefited from working alongside a real expert and great teacher, who was able to pass on his skills and instructions with such clarity and understanding. A fantastic course. Thank you”. Gareth Potter – Volunteer – September 2017.

“Thank you so much for today. We were all so impressed with the amount of effort and organisation which you all had put in. The children loved the experience and gained new skills. We live in such a beautiful part of the country and we often take it for granted. Today reaffirmed this view. Rachael – thank you so much for all your efforts in making today happen”. Mr Willan – Headteacher – Water Primary School, Rossendale – October 2017.

“Proffitts made the whole project management process easy and supported us in all aspects of the work”. Roger Plum – Connecting people to Hyndburn’s Natural Heritage Officer – June 2017.

“An excellent, well managed project which has helped to restore part of our heritage. the facilities were ideal and the catering was very good! I enjoyed the session so much I attended on four separate days. Alan was a great tutor and I certainly learned a lot about dry stone walling. I have spoken to many runners and walkers who have been up to Liver Hill since the walling was completed and they have been very complimentary about the newly restored wall. The stile is now more substantial than it was and the wall blends into the landscape as if it has been there for years.” Andy Ellis – Volunteer – November 2017.

“I really enjoyed working on this project and getting the local children at the local primary school involved aswell. Proffitts were great to work with” Jill Klee – Housing Officer, Accent Group – June 2017.

“I’d learnt very little from other housing projects. There wasn’t anything to worry about because the staff from the housing project would fill in my claim forms (because it was quicker for them to do it) I’d pay my £10 a week and then I’d just sign the form. I didn’t really understand or value the support I was receiving. However, with the support from Proffitts and the Empty Homes programme, I’ve learnt new skills to prepare myself for independent living. I’ve really appreciated the support and time that they have spent going through the forms with me and showing me how to fill them in independently. At first, it was scary but after a few weeks it just clicked and now I understand the value of budgeting, especially as I’m a mum. I can’t thank Proffitts enough.” Kirsty – Tenant – Empty Homes Project – July 2015.

”It wasn’t just us who thought it was a great night – here’s some feedback from our diners last night. Full bellies and happy faces all round!” “The pop up restaurant project was a very good idea – it was good fun. Please repeat!” “A fantastic experience for the young people involved. Absolutely wonderful cuisine, beautifully presented and a lovely atmosphere. It should be a regular dining experience!” “A very good idea to give young people experience of being a restauranteur in the local area. The dining experience was a good as anywhere – the food was excellent. I would like to see the concept spread further”. “I think its a brilliant idea for young people to get involved and interested in cooking. Judging by the atmosphere and success, its an ace concept! The setting was lovely (especially our waitress), good level of interest and service towards customers, good choice and quality of food. I highly recommend this should be repeated and grown into a permanent idea”. Read more of the feedback on the link below ‘Home’ – Visitor Feedback – March 2016.

“The Friends of Copperas Field in Droylsden have a very ambitious master plan but were getting frustrated that a number of funding bids were being turned down. They discovered that the Council had successfully engaged with Proffits for several environmental projects in the borough and invited Martin Proffitt along to discuss the possibility of his organisation helping the Friends Group with funding bid. The Friends Group were impressed with Martin’s approach and agreed for him to work on some priority projects they wished to progress for the Fields. To date we have secured £75k from two external submissions and have a third bid lined up for submission to Sport England. The Friends Group are impressed with the developments to date and look forward to continuing its partnership with Proffitts and Tameside Council to further develop the facilities at Copperas Field for the benefit of our local community.” Ian Cochrane – Integrated Neighbourhood Manager West Tameside, Tameside MBC – January 2015.

”We work with young people who have anger management issues and short attention spans and are not in main stream education. Drug use is also prevalent and sadly, a lot of the young people live in Higher Croft, one of the most deprived areas in England. The Youth Music team worked with a core group of between 6 – 8 young people and considering the work space, this was a real achievement! The group enjoyed the sessions, feeling at ease and gradually growing in confidence. They wrote their own lyrics and beats and managed to create two original songs. One of the group members, Dion, was found to have a great singing voice – a real gem! Dion and Sophie performing live at a music event was a real highlight. With approx. 100 young people in attendance, including friends and family, everyone was wowed by their performance.” YPS workers – Kaleidoscope – April 2015.

”It was a great pleasure to have Richard Jupp, drummer from Elbow, tutor 2 small groups. The session for the younger group went well – we had 4 drum kits set up and Richard was very patient and attentive. You could visibly see the group grow in confidence. We had great feedback from the group who really enjoyed the session and learnt some basic elements of drumming. The next session went well too. The older group much preferred the practical side to the session and enjoyed Richard played more complicated patterns and when everyone was able to drum together. Feedback was positive but to improve the session, drumming with a band may have enhanced it!! I would like to say a big thank you to John from Proffitts for the excellent youth music sessions, and providing such a fantastic opportunity for the young people to meet and play drums with Elbows’ Richard Jupp. And finally, a big thank youfor the support given to the Dig it event. We are in the process of making two of our young people who attended the masterclass into volunteers, with the intention of running two music sessions a week at Kaleidoscope youth center in Blackburn. We appreciate the funding for equipment, particularly the fixing of the mixing desk Again, many thanks for a really positive project.” Alan Garvin – Manager, Young People’s Services, Blackburn – April 2015.

“We are very happy that we were put in contact with Martin Proffitt to help us fundraise for a play area on Copperas Fields. We had become quite downhearted as we had been applying for funding and never achieved larger amounts. We are so happy to have had Martin and his team on board. Thank you for helping us make a positive change to the area – it will be a great asset to this part of Droylsden and will be used by people close by and further afield, we would recommend Proffitts to other organisations and would be happy for them to work on other projects in the area” Graham Halliwell – The Friends of Copperas Field – January 2015.

“Without Proffitts help, Mercer House 1842 Ltd would have not been able to make the great strides forward we have achieved in the last 12 months. With their expertise, we were able to obtain funding from both CLIF and ESF which enabled us to employ a Community Development Worker and a Volunteer Co-ordinator. With these people in post, we have run 25 training courses over a wide range of subjects for the local people of Clayton le Moors and Altham. This has resulted in helping 12 people back into employment and recruited over 150 volunteers – of which 61 are still actively involved in the local community. None of this would have been achieved without Proffitts continual support and backup from their excellent staff.” Nick Collingridge – Director – Mercer House 1842 Ltd – February 2016.

“Great project management – timely and efficient. People lovely to work with. Great at keeping project ticking over.” Shauna Morton – Neighbourhood Manager – December 2012.

“Proffitts has recently project managed the refurbishment of the Memorial Gardens in Facit, Whitworth. Rachael Marsden from Proffitts has worked closely with all involved from the outset, even before funding was in place, and has managed the entire project from identifying the funding to the day-to-day management of the actual refurbishment itself. She has worked particularly closely with members of the Whitworth and Healey Horticultural Society, a group of outstanding local volunteers with limited experience of projects of this size and nature; she has encouraged and advised them and her enthusiasm and professionalism has seen the Society rise to the challenge and ‘blossom’ on every level. The result is an outstanding improvement to the Gardens using funding that no-one else on the project would have had the knowledge or expertise to apply for without her help. I would have no hesitation in working with Proffitts again based on this experience”. Karen Douglas – Whitworth Town Clerk – December 2012.

“Over the past few years, Whitworth and Healey Horticultural Society has been awarded several small grants, enabling them to make small improvements to the Town’s Memorial Gardens. Early in 2010, the group was introduced to Rachael Marsden from Proffitts and improvements we never dreamt we could consider began to be a possibility. Rachael has spared no effort in her work on our behalf, drawing up plans, arranging the grant of £50,000 from Community Spaces to cover the cost of the work required and overseeing the project. Her expertise and commitment has made the rejuvenation of Whitworth Memorial Gardens possible and is producing a facility for Whitworth residents to enjoy for many years to come. The building work is now complete, new railing are being installed and we are looking forward to Spring 2012, when the planting of new trees, shrubs and perennial plants will be done to complete the work. Thank you Rachael for being such a friend to the Society – we could not have managed any of this work without your help. We hope that we may have the opportunity to work together again.” K. Anita Farrow – Treasurer,  Whitworth and Healey Horticultural Society – December 2012.

“Close Park Friends Group were assigned Proffitts Investing in Communities to help them through the stage 2 of the Community Spaces bid. They did much more than that and were invaluable in the “Gym for All” project. They gave professional advice and guidance, helped out with the contract, tendering process and design, working extremely well with this community group. This has been an excellent project providing an outdoor gym, the first of it’s kind for the Borough of Bury in a Radcliffe park” Mike Bent – Parks and Countryside Manager, Bury Council – June 2012.

“Proffitt’s Investing in Communities have assisted Rossendale Borough Council on a number of occasions. Each time the results have been substantial. Over a two year period and with very little management or resources required Proffitt’s worked closely with community groups across the borough and secured over £300,000 as new investment into Borough owned play areas, parks and open spaces. Without Proffitt’s Involvement these areas would provide limited play opportunities for our residents. The staff at Proffitt’s stand out as being enthusiastic, understanding, approachable and flexible – key qualities when working as an advocate between local government and local people. I would, without question; work with Proffitt’s again as the results always present themselves and the experience has always been a positive one”. Jason Foster – Operations Manager – June 2013

“I’ve enjoyed a good working relationship with Proffitt’s since its formation in 2008. Indeed I had already worked with some of Proffitt’s team members prior to that date. Working as a small, close knit team I can vouch for their level of expertise in their chosen fields, as well as the open and honest way in which the deal with clients. As Proffitt’s indicate on their website, any initial advice and guidance is provided free of charge and I found that this enabled them to look to identify my needs and provide me with the relevant advice and guidance, which is so crucial at the early stages of any project. Over recent years the assistance provided by Proffitt’s has been invaluable in securing investment from the Big Lottery, Groundwork UK and Community Spaces to support a number of community based projects. Proffitt’s has also been actively involved in ensuring the ongoing sustainability of some of these projects. The most recent of which has been the establishment of a Multi Use Games Area (MUGA). This is an excellent all weather facility that was much needed and has provided a local and accessible sporting venue to the youth of Britannia. In conclusion I would commend Proffitt’s to any prospective client, particularly small voluntary, community or residents groups who are looking for opportunities to develop their local neighbourhood for the better and who would welcome some sound and impartial advice that will enable them to realise their goal” Jim Donovan – Chairman – June 2013.

“The input from Proffitts was invaluable. They were very professional and got stuck in straight away providing us with brilliant support and with the young people an enthusiastic and caring ear.” L Mitchell – Neighbourhood Manager – April 2012.

“Proffitt’s have a very good understanding of how to deliver physical and written projects within a very complex stakeholder setting. Proffitt’s communication skills are excellent and this has been demonstrated through the amount of support they have gained and the success in terms of the number of community groups they have helped secure funding. Proffitt’s approach is a consistent one and produces excellent results. I can assure that Proffitt’s would quickly become an asset to any programme of work which they are involved with” J Bustos – Facilitator Coordinator – May 2012.