It was first associated with and supported by Rochdale Council as long ago as early 1960ies. Pakistan Welfare Association (Rochdale) has survived as an organisation for over 60 years, despite the many challenges it has faced, this bears testimony to its resilience and durability, more importantly, it reflects the value it has provided at various times for the Pakistani community.

In the 2021 Census, the Pakistani community at around 31,630 was the largest ethnic minority group in Rochdale representing 15% of the population. A community that has faced many hardships across almost five generations in Rochdale. It is well documented that a community’s identity is multifaceted. The Pakistani community that has made Rochdale its home has played an important role in the social, economic, environmental, and political life of Rochdale ’s rich fabric. As an organisation, PWA (Rochdale) has endured and developed despite reduced funding opportunities and the impact of austerity on both its community and as an organisation.