About Us

OPAL is a charity based in Oldham that has been supporting people with learning disabilities since 1983.

OPAL’s mission is:
to work with people with a learning disability and autistic people to make sure they have a voice in shaping services so that they can have the same life chances as everybody else.

In May 2023, OPAL celebrated its 40th anniversary by inviting everyone who has been involved with OPAL to an event. It was amazing to see so many people come to celebrate the great work that OPAL does.

OPAL’s Staff Team

Michelle Anderson

Chief Executive Officer
Joined OPAL in 2014.
Michelle joined OPAL as a registered social worker in 2014. She is also a Stage 1 and 2 practice educator who assesses the practice of social work students during their placements.
In June 2021, Michelle was appointed CEO. She is responsible to the Board of Trustees and manages the charity’s day-to-day operations. She ensures that people with a learning disability and autistic individuals are at the heart of all of OPAL’s activities.

Catherine Rafferty

Service Manager
Joined OPAL in 2001.
Cath is in charge of managing the day service. Her responsibilities include ensuring that everything is in place for people to choose and participate in activities, learn new skills, and have fun. Additionally, Cath is a qualified advocate who works with individuals to assist them in speaking out and making informed choices.

Angela Clarke

Advocacy Coordinator
Joined OPAL in 1999.
Angela is a qualified advocate and is responsible for OPAL’s advocacy support hub. Angela works with advocacy clients to help them understand the choices they have so they can make informed decisions.

Neil Dockerty

Social Worker
Joined OPAL in 2018.
Neil is a registered social worker and practice educator for OPAL’s social work students. He supports members of the OPAL Crew and delivers the Learning Disability Friends project.

Steph Beaumont

Day Service Coordinator
Joined OPAL in 2008.
Steph is OPAL’s day service coordinator. She plans and organises activities with group members and assists people in choosing how they want to spend their time with OPAL. Her artwork and creative skills help produce fabulous and fun displays for our centre. She is also a qualified further education teacher.