Barnsley Life – Free Newspaper – Issue 8 – Feb/Mar 2022 by LifeNewspapers

BARNSLEY Life FREE PAPER - Feb Mar 2022 - Issue 8

Inside

A Night at the Lamp Room

Money Matters Special

Great food at the Crown and Anchor followed by a show at the Lamp Room P4

Experts explain how to make informed decisions in the current climate P14 - 17

Building Materials on the Rise

Thinking of Going Veggie?

Why are materials going up and what does this mean for home owners? P12

Why not try our two recipes to see how delicious vegetarian food can be? P20

Expenses claimed by Barnsley MPs amount to almost £1m The Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA) recently released data showing costs claimed by Barnsley’s four MPs in the 2020/21 financial year exceeded £928,000. A Member of Parliament enjoys a basic annual salary of £81,932, which remained unchanged from the previous year, but they are also able to claim allowances to cover the costs of undertaking their constituency work and representing their constituents, which will include covering the expenses of running an office, employing staff and travel. John Healey (Wentworth and Dearne) incurred the highest costs of the four at just over £254,000, followed closely by Miriam Cates (Penistone and Stocksbridge) at £241,578 and Dan Jarvis (Barnsley Central) at £235,720. Stephanie Peacock (Barnsley East) claimed £196,533, which was the least amount claimed from Barnsley’s four MPs. The budgets for MP expenses are closely controlled and overseen by IPSA and published

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• Dan Jarvis (Barnsley Central) on a regular basis on their website. The expenses allow each MP to employ a small team to support the MPs in representing and supporting

• Stephanie Peacock (Barnsley East)

their constituents, which accounts for the largest proportion of expenses. Many MPs have seen a large increase in requests for

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P2 Feb Mar 2022 - Barnsley Life

Barnsley Life - Feb Mar 2022 P3

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P4 Feb Mar 2022 - Barnsley Life

Friday night fun with great food and theatre

After a long week at work sometimes it’s difficult to get motivated for a Friday night out but I’ve found making the effort is worth it to get the weekend started for a lift in my mood and a swing in my step. Last week my friend and I had tickets booked at The Lamproom Theatre for ‘Rock the West End’ so we coupled that with a cheeky cocktail and meal at The Crown and Anchor

in Barugh Green. Perfect! I am a fan of this traditional pub, especially at this time of year I like to get cosied up beside one of the fires and my husband enjoys the selection of ales. There’s a good list of cocktails too and my friend and I sipped on a delicious raspberry daiquiri – that certainly helped to put the week’s worries to bed! The menu is always good and

I do believe it changes seasonally – plenty of choice from pies and burgers to their popular ham hock. I had the salmon fillet with rainbow chard, sautéed potatoes with brown shrimp and caper butter it was extremely delicious and not too heavy. My friend chose the chicken supreme; chicken breast on the bone with potato fondant, kale and wild

mushrooms – she loved hers equally. I know the sticky toffee pudding is great there but I wanted sweets in the theatre so I left it at that… The theatre was packed and boy I can’t tell you how great it felt to be back at a theatre! Aren’t we lucky to have such a great little theatre in Barnsley… Every seat was full from small children to the more elderly and this made for

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a terrific atmosphere. I had heard from a friend that LS productions who were performing were a great local company whose productions were always popular and good fun and they definitely were! The performance was a selection of songs from West End musicals; some well-known and some less familiar, all sung with great energy by the talented cast. Throughout we enjoyed

clapping and singing along, and for the finale we all stood and danced and sang - Friday night never felt so good! So reluctantly we left with massive smiles, feeling uplifted and full of absolute joy. Back home and settled with a cuppa in my pjs, but to be honest still buzzing from the show, I opened the laptop and perused The Lamproom ‘s calendar – two shows booked!

Barnsley Life - Feb Mar 2022 P5

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P6 Feb Mar 2022 - Barnsley Life

Barnsley Council’s proposed budget boosts investment in communities Cllr Sir Steve Houghton CBE, Leader of Barnsley Council, said: “We present this budget after another year of uncertainty. A year where we’ve continued to support our borough’s response to the pandemic while striving to provide Barnsley with a strong future. “And despite this, we’re in a reasonably strong financial position. I’m not sure how many other local authorities can say that they have a balanced budget for this year and next. It’s a great achievement, a testament to our staff and a position that I’m sure other councils are envious of. “Our vision is to make Barnsley the place of possibilities, a place that fosters and grows ambition across our communities, and we’re absolutely focused on bringing this to life. Our budget proposes to boost investment for people and their places; in our Principal Towns and Local Centres, creating opportunities for new jobs and better homes, while supporting the people who need our help the most. “However, we’re still faced with considerable financial uncertainty and many risks and challenges ahead due to labour supply issues, inflation, Government funding and levelling up plans, and moving forward from the pandemic, which puts significant pressure on our resources and increased demand on frontline services such as Adult and Children’s Social Care services. “Our budget proposals are well planned and researched, and we remain vigilant, preparing for every financial scenario and managing our resources with a long-term future in mind.” Barnsley Council’s 2022-2023 budget proposals will be discussed at Cabinet on Wednesday 9 February, before being considered, and formally approved at Budget Council on Thursday 24 February. Read the full papers on our website. Proposed key investments to Barnsley’s communities: • A £30 million Principal Towns and Local Town Centres programme including a £10 million upfront boost to kick start the programme from 2022-2023. This will help communities and businesses thrive and make visible improvements in our local areas. • Actively progressing further external funding opportunities, including a major investment in transport infrastructure across the borough as part of the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority sustainable transport programme. • An additional £2 million on top of the annual £15 million programme, to improve our highways and roads. • An additional clean up team to pressure wash pavements, repair, replace street furniture and replace waste bins covering Principal Towns, Local Centres and the town centre. • Additional grass cutting in parks and open spaces, cultural venues, cemeteries and the crematorium. • £19.1 million for Barnsley’s social housing to make sure that homes are maintained to a decent standard. • A further £11.5 million investment in housing including fire safety improvements on the back of Grenfell and a new housing

development within Goldthorpe as part of the wider Goldthorpe Town Plan. • Additional investment to build a state-of-theart Youth Zone for young people to discover their talents, develop their skills and reach their full potential. • Investment to support children and young people to access SEND services. • A £500,000 contribution, with a full investment of £2.5 million to develop a centre for vocal excellence which will serve as a new home for the world-famous Barnsley Youth Choir. • Significant additional investment in core Adults and Children’s Social Care, including employing additional children’s Social Workers to improve the time spent engaging with children and families. This will help Social Workers to really understand a child’s needs, experiences and to help make the right decisions for children at the right time. Key points from the proposed 2022-23 budget: • We are able to set a balanced budget for 2022-2023 with a plan in place for 202324. • This year’s budget will include almost £27 million investment in day-to-day front line services and over £56.2 million of one-off capital investment. • To balance our budget for 2022-2024, we’re proposing to deliver £6.5 million of efficiencies across the council, looking at changing the way we deliver our services to meet our residents’ needs. • The council’s element of the council tax is proposed to increase by 3.5% to help support the rising pressures in Adult Social Care. This breaks down to: 1) 2% specifically for adult social care services to help continue to provide highquality care for frail and vulnerable people and to help meet increasing demand as the population ages. 2) 5% to pay for core services, such as road maintenance, bin collections, recycling, library services, fostering and adoption, school transport. • This means that households will see a weekly increase in the council’s element of the council tax of 71 pence for properties in band A and 83 pence in band B. • 15,000 households on the lowest incomes will continue to receive additional council tax support of £125 and will see no increase to their council tax bill meaning the maximum discount for those eligible is 92.8%. Key highlights from what we’ve previously invested: • Additional investment saw the opening of our fantastic Glass Works in September 2021 and there are exciting plans for even more shops, restaurants, and leisure facilities this year. • Over £40 million in external funding secured to support major redevelopment across the borough, including creating an active travel hub at The Seam, redevelopment of Eldon Street and Goldthorpe and further investment within the town centre. • Ongoing works of more than £1 million to improve flood defences at Lang Avenue, Wombwell and across the borough. • £174,000 into upgrading Barnsley town centre CCTV system to make sure our town is welcoming and thriving for visitors. • £200,000 to protect our beautiful borough

by clearing graffiti, fly-tipping, contaminated bin rubbish removal, street cleansing as well engagement and support to residents. • £75,000 into our successful Mockingbird Project to support foster families through peer support, including regular joint planning, training, and social activities. • £45,000 into mental health and physical activity, this included launching the Moving Mental Health Forward scheme to help organisations create a positive mental health culture and access training and funding. • £35,000 to support Hoyland to become the first smoke-free high street in Barnsley, creating a smoke-free generation and protecting children’s health.

• Over £3 million of the £5 million set aside as part of our Principal Towns investment, included opening a new high street garden in Cudworth, which transformed a derelict toilet block into a high-quality public space for residents to experience. • Creation of a new reception at Barnsley Crematorium. • £316,000 to upgrade Barnsley Metrodome’s heating system, which reduced its annual carbon emissions by 1,500 tonnes and created a greener leisure centre for visitors. • £1 million as part of our town centre car parking investment, included extended free parking from 5pm during the week, and for three hours at weekends, so visitors can enjoy the town centre for longer and support local businesses. • £64,000 for flood defences installed at homes in Lundwood and all highway gullies in the area have been inspected and maintained to help protect our residents from future flooding.

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P8 Feb Mar 2022 - Barnsley Life

Building materials are set to rise across the UK in 2022 Why is the cost of materials so high? Prices for building materials across the UK have been soaring over the last year. Increased demand and supply issues as a result of Brexit and lockdowns are just a few of the factors that have caused prices to fluctuate massively.

What does this mean for home renovation projects? Mike Fairman, CEO of Checkatrade, said: “The current global raw materials shortage has had a profound impact on the UK trade and construction industry. Soaring demand, the impact of Brexit, continued pandemic recovery and shock factors like forest fire threats in North America are all reasons behind the shortages we have seen. Our recent consumer research* has revealed that awareness of the shortages is low, with only a small percentage of Brits (22%) claiming to have heard of the shortages and understanding how they could affect them. However, many have already experienced its impact, with 21% of respondents* experiencing delays in either their jobs being started or completed due to a shortage of raw materials. The property and home renovation market has been booming over the last year and demand shows no sign of slowing down – in fact we’ve had 49% more consumer searches so far this year than in the same period last year**. With this in mind, we’d recommend that homeowners factor potential future shortages into any upcoming projects they plan to undertake on their homes. In particular, they should make sure to speak to tradespeople when planning a project to discuss timelines and should be careful to use reliable sources such as Checkatrade to find vetted, reviewed tradespeople. We know our trade members are keen to work with their customers to find ways to overcome these issues, including trying to find alternative materials that could be used.”

What material costs have been affected? There is a range of materials that have increased in price due to the shortages, such as: 1. Timber 2. Cement 3. Insulation 4. Plywood 5. Roof tiles Some materials will be easier or harder to get hold of, depending on where you are in the UK. When getting quotes for your project, it’s always worth asking tradespeople if they’re having trouble getting hold of any materials and what this will mean for your work.

What do material shortages Will building materials mean for tradespeople? come down in price? The shortage of materials and rise in demand is causing just as many headaches for tradespeople. It’s making it harder to accurately price jobs and causing scheduling issues on projects of all shapes and sizes. If you’re quoting or planning for a job, you can help overcome these issues by: 1. Ensuring all designs and plans are signed before ordering materials and being less What do material shortages flexible on revisions. 2. Buying commonly used materials in mean for consumers? advance and working with other The shortage of materials is having an impact tradespeople to share materials where you on a wide range of jobs across the board. The have excess supply. main things to consider when booking in work 3. Separating the cost of materials and labour is that you could be facing: on jobs to make it clear to customers where the increased cost is from. 1. Longer waiting times 4. Providing an estimate instead of a fixed 2. Higher quotes quote, with a caveat that prices may 3. Quotes changing (prices can change quickly change based on the market rate. when the job is quoted in advance) 5. Putting time limits on quotes, or charging the material costs directly to the customer Checkatrade member, Neil Rogers of Honeywood at the time of purchase. Joinery said, “I was told by my local merchants if 6. Building longer lead times into jobs. you’re pricing up a job and it’s longer than a 7. Utilising alternate composite or PVC month away, add on another 15-20% on your materials where traditional materials are price for more timber inflation prices.” not available. One way to combat rising prices and shortages is to get a quote for all the materials before starting any work and pay for them upfront. You can then store them until the work begins. It’s also worth seeing if there Article courtesy of are any alternative materials that you can use.

It’s hard to say if/when materials will come down in price. For as long as the demand is high and the supply is short, the prices will be higher. Be sure to check in with your tradesperson throughout the process from quote to build and get advice from them on the best way to plan your project.

Key takeaways 1. Material costs are fluctuating at a rapid pace, so factor in extra costs to your budgets and plans. 2. There are shortages of materials which may affect if a tradesperson can take on your job, or do it in the time frame you are hoping for. 3. Get multiple quotes for your project to find the tradesperson that’s right for you. *Research conducted by Opinium on behalf of Checkatrade. Total sample size was 2,003 UK adults. Survey conducted online between 4th June and 8th June 2021. Includes just the respondents who have experienced delays in starting/completing home improvement projects over the last 12 months **Data captured between 1 January – 31 July 2020 vs 1 January – 31 July 2021

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P10 Feb Mar 2022 - Barnsley Life

Barnsley Hospice is based in Gawber on Church Street, S75 2RL. It has been providing compassionate, specialist care for people in Barnsley with progressive, life-limiting illnesses, and their families, since 1994.

For more information about Barnsley Hospice go to www.barnsleyhospice.org or contact us on 01226 244244 or email enquries@barnsley-hospice.org

Hospice launches new service to support people with life-limiting conditions People living with life-limiting illnesses which cannot be cured can now be referred to a new support and wellbeing service at Barnsley Hospice. ‘The Orangery’ at Barnsley Hospice is now open and providing support and advice to patients living with active and progressive conditions such as cancer, respiratory disease, heart disease, Parkinson’s and motor neurone disease. This free service is not just for end-of-life care, but for patients with life-limiting illnesses at any stage in their journey. It aims to help them cope with symptoms such as breathlessness, fatigue and anxiety whether these are current or anticipated. The Orangery’s services include complementary therapies (to help relieve symptoms) short programmes (to develop selfhelp techniques to cope with symptoms) and meet-up opportunities (to chat with others and

share mutual support and experience). Complementary therapy and wellbeing lead Diane Gledhill-Cragg said: “The Orangery’s services are designed to help patients cope with the physical, emotional and psychological impacts of their condition; as well as tackle practical issues and support advance care planning. Our aim is to help people cope with the demands of their life-limiting health condition and live their lives as well as possible as their illness progresses. We very much look forward to welcoming people to The Orangery in 2022.” Th Orangery replaces and enhances previous ‘day services’ provided at the hospice prior to pandemic lockdowns. Its base is a newlyrefurbished space within Barnsley Hospice which opens on to its own garden area and has facilities for refreshments, and free parking. Its services are provided by qualified

complementary therapy and wellbeing therapists, working closely with other specialist palliative care professionals within hospice. Every patient referred to The Orangery will have an individual support and wellbeing package designed for them to help cope with their illness and manage symptoms in their own way. People living in the Barnsley borough and registered with a Barnsley GP are eligible to access hospice services. Patients must be referred by their GP or a community nurse or a hospital/community-based palliative care professional. The Orangery plans to offer its specialist care and support in person in its dedicated room within Barnsley Hospice. This will be subject to COVID-19 guidance and restrictions. The option to join programmes via video link will remain. Anyone interested in accessing The

Orangery’s support and well-being service is urged to talk to their GP or health professional to ask about being referred. Contact 01226 244244 ext 225 or theorangery@barnsleyhospice.org with any queries.

Hospice Catering receives five star review! Barnsley Hospice's catering team received a five star rating following a recent inspection. Environmental Health came on a routine visit to the hospice to review the kitchen's food hygiene rating and judged hygiene levels remained outstanding, awarding the highest 5-star rating. Sue Cassell, Catering

Team Leader at the hospice, said: “The hygiene and safety of our kitchen are of the utmost importance to

everyone here at the hospice. We pride ourselves on the care we take in achieving the highest standards, and we are glad that this was reflected in our latest food hygiene rating.” The hospice catering team provide nutritious and delicious food for patients at the hospice – catering for everyone’s tastes and dietary requirements.

A group of Barnsley College students have visited Barnsley Hospice Retail Hub to gather clothes for a sustainable design challenge The second-year fashion design students were tasked with choosing five denim items and one other piece of clothing from our pre-loved clothing range. They must now transform these materials into a new one-off, couture outfit. The coursework assignment is to use their charity shops finds to create a new garment inspired by the theme of either ‘Barnsley’ or the ‘Human Body’.

Course tutor Amy Basry said: “The project is all about sustainability and creativity. We’re so grateful that the retail hub has let us come long today to choose from the donated

clothing in their amazing warehouse and we’re excited to see what our students will make with them.” The students must now complete their creations and their work will be assessed as part of their UAL Extended Diploma in Creative Practice in Fashion. Barnsley Hospice Retail Hub is open MondaySaturday 9am – 4pm, based at Dodworth, on Fall Bank Industrial Estate.

Barnsley Life - Feb Mar 2022 P11

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MARCH 3rd Thurs 5th Sat 6th Sun 7th Mon 9th Wed 10th Thurs 12th Sat 13th Sun 15th Tue 16th Wed 17th Thur 19th Sat 20th Sun 21st Mon 23rd Wed

Harrogate & Knaresborough Chester Skirlington Market & Bridlington Thirsk & Wetherby Trafford Centre Straford-Upon-Avon Blackpool Whitby Richmond & Ripon Skipton Shopper Durham Bury Market Liverpool Pickering & Whitby Cleethorpes

£15 £15 £15 £15 £15 £20 £15 £15 £15 £15 £18 £15 £15 £15 £15

26th Sat 27th Sun 28th Mon

Lancaster & Morecambe York Shopper Scarborough Bakewell & Buxton

£15 £15 £15 £15

APRIL 2nd Sat 3rd Sun 5th Tue 7th Thur 9th Sat 10th Sun 12th Tue 13th Wed 16th Sat

Skegness Bridlington & Skirlington Market Chorley Market & Barton Grange Ripon & Harrogate Scarborough Lake Windermere Cleethorpes Bury Market Blackpool

£15 £15 £15 £15 £15 £20 £15 £15 £15

17th Sun 18th Mon 19th Tue 20th Wed 21st Thur 23rd Sat 24th Sun 27th Wed 28th Thur 30th Sat

Skegness £15 Whitby £15 Bridlington £15 Chester Zoo inc Coach Tickets Adult £39 Child £35 Shrewsbury £20 Beverley Market £15 Llandudno £20 Scarborough £15 Southport £15 Skegness £15

MAY 1st Sun 2nd Mon 4th Wed 5th Thur 7th Sat

Liverpool Whitby Skipton Southport Skegness

£15 £15 £15 £15 £15

8th Sun 10th Tue 11th Wed 14th Sat 15th Sun 16th Mon 17th Tue 18th Wed 19th Thur 21st Sat 23rd Mon 24th Tue 26th Thur 28th Sat 29th Sun 30th Mon

Lake Windermere Lancaster & Morecambe Bury Whitby Blackpool Pickering & Scarborough Cotswold’s Tour Bridlington Shrewsbury Cleethorpes Bakewell & Matlock National Arboretum & Litchfield York Skegness Bridlington Whitby

TOURS 2022 28 Mar - 1 Apr

MARCH 7 - 11 Mar 7 - 11 Mar 7 - 11 Mar 7 - 11 Mar 14 - 18 Mar 14 - 18 Mar 14 - 18 Mar 14 - 18 Mar 19 - 20 Mar 19 - 20 Mar 21 - 25 Mar 21 - 25 Mar 21 - 25 Mar 24 - 28 Mar 26 - 27 Mar 28 Mar - 1 Apr 28 Mar - 1 Apr 28 Mar - 1 Apr

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28 Mar - 1 Apr 28 Mar - 1 Apr

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£226 £260 £276

APRIL 3 - 7 Apr 4 - 8 Apr 4 - 8 Apr 8 - 11 Apr 11 - 15 Apr 11 - 15 Apr 11 - 15 Apr 14 - 18 Apr 15 - 18 Apr 15 - 19 Apr 16 - 17 Apr 18 - 22 Apr 18 - 22 Apr 18 - 22 Apr 18 - 22 Apr 18 - 22 Apr 20 - 24 Apr 25 - 29 Apr

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SHOWS AND EVENTS 15 June 2022 25 June 2022 16 July 2022 22 October 2022 Various Dates Various Dates Various Dates -

NYMR Train Pickering to Whitby Footloose the Musical Singing in the Rain Musical Joseph & His Technicolour Dreamcoat Harry Potter Studios Tour Emmerdale Village Tour Coronation Street Studio Tour

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25 - 29 Apr 25 - 29 Apr 25 - 29 Apr 25 - 29 Apr 25 - 29 Apr 25 - 29 Apr 29 Apr - 2 May 30 Apr - 4 May

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P12 Feb Mar 2022 - Barnsley Life

Public views sought on new green development in heart of town centre Barnsley people are being asked for their views on innovative plans to develop an eco-friendly business and community district in the heart of the town centre. New plans for The Seam digital campus include energy-efficient housing, green open spaces, improved facilities for cyclists and walkers and a multi-storey car park with electric vehicle charging points. The Seam is already home to two Digital Media Centres and Barnsley College’s SciTech building. Its car park is used by commuters and shoppers and many have also visited the Covid-19 testing centre located on this site in recent months. Proposals to develop the area have been drawn up by Barnsley Council and sustainable design consultants Arcadis, working with BDP Architects. The aim is to build new facilities around the existing business and learning centres to create an ‘urban village’ using the latest ideas in landscape and building design and digital technology to create a safe, smart and sustainable living and working environment. Cllr Tim Cheetham, Barnsley Council’s Cabinet Spokesperson for

Regeneration and Culture, said: “We are putting forward a range of new and future-focused ideas for The Seam and would love to gain the opinions of people who already use the site whether they work, study, visit or simply park here. “Our plans are bold and aim to push current boundaries and use technology, data and highquality design to create a vibrant neighbourhood where people can live, work, learn and explore new ideas.” The proposals being considered include a new 400 space multistorey car park with, initially, 40 electric car charging points and new smart technology which will enable drivers to check ahead for spaces. Also on the drawing board is a network of green spaces and walkways designed for environmental and community benefit with smart lighting and security features. An ‘active travel hub’ is proposed where cyclists and walkers can access safe bike storage, shower and toilet facilities, bike, electric bike and scooter hire plus a green commuters’ café. Finally, a new energy-efficient

housing development is planned for the site which will incorporate innovative ideas in low-carbon design and construction to support greener living. The Seam is a two-minute walk from Barnsley’s Transport Interchange and covers an area which extends either side of County Way between Regent Street and Old Mill Lane. The council aspires to be carbon

neutral across the authority by 2040 and across the borough by 2045 and this development aims to champion energy and resource efficiency, support the move to more sustainable transport options and create well-planned green spaces for people and the planet. Cllr Cheetham said: “We’re keen to gain public comment on these proposals to help us develop this part of Barnsley town centre for the

future.” The public consultation on The Seam will run throughout February. The results will then feed into the next stage of the design works. There will be a further opportunity to comment at the planning permission stage. The Seam consultation can be completed online or hard copies can be reviewed at the Library @ The Lightbox in the town centre.

Ambitious flood action plan launched to tackle climate emergency in South Yorkshire Barnsley Council today proudly announces its role in a powerful new alliance to reduce flood risk and tackle the climate emergency head on. The Connected by Water Action Plan will help protect homes and businesses in Barnsley and across South Yorkshire from the impacts of flooding. The plan was first conceived after floods devastated parts of South Yorkshire in 2019. As the water subsided, communities, businesses and senior leaders realised they were experiencing the impacts of climate change firsthand and made a commitment to work together to tackle the issue. A new partnership was formed with Barnsley Council alongside Doncaster, Rotherham and Sheffield Councils, the Environment Agency, Yorkshire Water and the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority working together on an action plan for the region. It combines 144 actions and 100 projects with a total investment of £400 million to better protect over 17,000 homes, businesses and infrastructure across South Yorkshire.

In Barnsley, projects include: • Lundwood Flood Alleviation Scheme • Barnsley Culvert Programme • Worsbrough Reservoir • Church Street, Darton • Low Valley (Bulling Dyke) • Low Valley Flood Alleviation Scheme • Netherwood Road bank strengthening • Culvert Replacement Programme, A637 in Darton

South Yorkshire Mayor, Dan Jarvis officially launched the plan today at a virtual event, with guest speakers including Barnsley Council Chief Executive Sarah Norman, Floods Minister Rebecca Pow, Chair of the Environment Agency Emma Howard Boyd, and Yorkshire Water Chief Executive Liz Barber. An online public consultation is now underway as one of the aims of the action plan is to work with communities to deliver it. People will have the opportunity to view the plan in full and give their comments by accessing it online at connectedbywater.co.uk The consultation will be open until 11 March. Leader of Barnsley Council, Cllr Sir Steve Houghton CBE, who also attended the virtual event, said: “This is a hugely important plan for the people of Barnsley. This brings together all the organisations which have the greatest responsibility to tackle the risk of flooding, and it’s a huge step forward to be working together so closely to protect homes and businesses. “Flooding has impacted many families and businesses within all too recent memory, and in Barnsley, our immediate priorities will of course be the impact on Barnsley residents and businesses. “What’s at the core of this plan though, is the importance of working together to understand and respond to the bigger picture of how water flowing through the rivers and streams of our landscape ignores borough boundaries. We really are all connected by water.” South Yorkshire Mayor, Dan Jarvis MP, said: “After the devastating floods across South Yorkshire, I fought for government funding to

protect us from a repeat of the scenes we saw in 2019 – securing £80m which has helped towards the launch of today’s flood catchment plan to protect the region. “This ‘living plan’ will continue to evolve based on what we learn over the coming months and years, but it will always ensure that we protect homes and businesses across South Yorkshire from the devastating impact of flooding. “A key part of this is using natural solutions to cut flood risk, like tree planting and land management, because it doesn’t just tackle flooding, it helps with nature recovery and gets us closer to our target of Net Zero carbon emissions by 2040 at the latest. Climate change is leading to increased rainfall and rising sea levels which hugely increase flood risks, but by introducing nature-based solutions to the mix we can break the cycle.” Floods Minister Rebecca Pow said: “This plan is a crucial step forward in improving the climate resilience of communities across South Yorkshire, which I hope will avoid a repeat of the devastating impact the November 2019 flooding had on people and businesses across the region. “Aided through more than £110 million in government funding, this plan is part of our record £5.2 billion investment over the next six years to better protect 336,000 properties across England and build on the 66,000 homes in Yorkshire already better protected since 2015.” Emma Howard Boyd, Chair of the Environment Agency, said: “In the autumn of 2019, I spoke to farmers and communities whose lives had been turned upside down by the South Yorkshire floods. For every £1 spent on flood protection we

avoid around £5 in property damages. As climate shocks accelerate, the Connected by Water Action Plan will help secure investment to better protect thousands of properties and key economic and transport infrastructure. Nature based solutions are also an important element of the plan and will help reduce flood risk, enhance water quality and support nature recovery.” Liz Barber, Chief Executive of Yorkshire Water, said: “We’re looking forward to continuing our partnership approach to flood alleviation, with the Connected by Water partnership. The potential of this partnership goes way beyond benefits for one area or organisation, it’s about delivering wider benefits for all of our customers in South Yorkshire.” An online public consultation is now underway as one of the aims of the action plan is to work with communities to deliver it. People will have the opportunity to view the plan in full and give their comments by accessing it online at https://consult.environmentagency.gov.uk/yorkshire/connected-by-water-sout h-yorkshire-action-plan/ The consultation will be open until 11 March.

Barnsley Life - Feb Mar 2022 P13

THE FOOT HEALTH PRACTICE We have moved!

Julie, Patricia and the Team at The Foot Health Practice are very proud and excited to announce that from early January they have moved from their clinic in Eldon Arcade into the new Glass Works development! “We’ve been delivering first class medical foot care to the people of Barnsley for 14 years, both in the community and from our clinic in the centre of Barnsley. Now we have the opportunity to support even more people from our new home, where we will be providing the same care and services. Our patients and customers already appreciate the care and attention we offer and over the next few years we plan to increase our services and sales lines so that the people of Barnsley will benefit even more.

WE ARE NOW AT: The Glass Works, 9 Cheapside, Barnsley S70 1GW. If you have never taken the opportunity of visiting us before or with the past 12-18 months events haven’t been to see us you are always welcome. The most important thing is that you take the first step, we all deserve to have comfortable feet and to be able to go about our daily lives. So, if you have a foot health problem and would like to book in then please feel free to call us on 01226 293693. You can also visit our website www.thefhpbarnsley.co.uk.

Invest a little in yourself - you deserve it!”

THE FOOT HEALTH PRACTICE

P14 Feb Mar 2022 - Barnsley Life

Taking control of your retirement planning More than 10 million people in the UK squirrel away some money towards their retirement every month. Yet how many of us are confident that what we are saving is enough? Will there be sufficient money to retire when we want - and live how we want in later life? Surprisingly few people are able to answer that question. Although one in four aims to retire at age 60, many simply have no clue what their savings, including their pension, will afford them. Planning when to retire and how to pay for it can certainly be a daunting prospect. It is a big step to go from the security of being employed with an earned income to all of a sudden being retired and relying on your savings, pension benefits and other assets you may have built up. Wouldn’t it be great to actually know that you are going to have enough to pay for the life after work, rather than just keeping your fingers crossed? It is certainly better to have a full understanding of all the

options available to you, in advance of your retirement, so you can make informed decisions and choices. There is something important to note. Your goals, needs and wants in retirement and later life are unique to you, and that is why it is advisable to have a financial plan in place that is tailored specifically for you. Everyone’s retirement looks different. In Lifetime’s expert view there is not a ‘one-size-fitsall’ answer to the ‘what age can I retire?’ question that so many people type into the Google search engine! Over the last few months there has been a 350% increase in internet searches for that very question! Clearly it is a topic that is on the mind of so many workers. But you need to know and appreciate the answers to some other key questions before you start seeking the postworking life. You need to ask yourself just what you want for you and your loved ones when you retire? Is it to keep up the same lifestyle that you currently enjoy? Is it actually to do more, and, for

example, go on two holidays per year instead of one? Is it to treat the grandkids on a more regular basis? Or is it to do less, wind down a bit and take it easy, with less travelling and more time just spent enjoying the garden and ‘pottering about’? All of these things need to be taken in consideration – and placed into your planning. Only you will know what you want your retirement life to be. You need to have that knowledge and focus firmly in mind, and if you discover that your money does not stretch to everything you want, then you have some decisions to make. The usual starting point when it comes to starting a plan for retirement is income and expenditure. However, it can often be difficult for people to envisage what their life will be like in say 10 or more years’ time. That’s why we have retirement planning professionals who use specialist software to give customers an accurate picture of what you need to do in order to achieve your plans, and will give you advice on your best course

of action prior to, and throughout, your life in retirement. That ‘financial picture’ will have a comprehensive breakdown of current lifestyle costs, including essential expenditure, debt repayments, leisure activities, holidays, oneoff expenses etc. It will also incorporate changes, such as the ending of a mortgage and other expenses, and make relevant adjustments. Various different scenarios can be shown, right up to a customer’s 100th birthday. Many people say they expect to retire in their mid-sixties, or close to their state pension age. That means that their retirement income could well have to last for 20 to 30 years. It is a fair chunk of your life! Interestingly, there is a noticeable money gap between retirees who take financial advice and those that don’t. That’s according to a study carried out by a think tank from

the International Longevity Centre UK. The study also found that people who receive advice were likely to be ‘more confident, worry less and are better prepared for retirement’ than those who do not take advice. Your finances determine a lot of your choices in life. We find that those with a financial plan are much more likely to have the necessary funds to realise their goals and objectives in retirement – and to identify obstacles, if any, that need to be overcome. People often seek financial advice because of a specific issue, such as a concern over a pension policy, but right at the heart of that need is one overriding thing: peace of mind. We believe everyone deserves to have someone they can truly trust, to talk to about their money. And be given the right help and guidance to take control of their retirement planning.

Information and article courtesy of Andrew Lodge at Lifetime Financial Management Intermediaries Ltd, www.lifetime-fm.com

Barnsley Life - Feb Mar 2022 P15

BARNSLEY Life Money Matters

Bank of England base rate jumps to 0.5% – find out what the rise means for you • Lenders MAY raise standard The Bank of England has variable rate (SVR) or 'discount' increased base rates to 0.5% mortgages. These move at the whim from 0.25% after the Monetary of lenders. You'll usually be on an Policy Committee (MPC) voted SVR after your fix or tracker ends. A in favour of a rise. The base 'discount' mortgage, meanwhile, rate is used by the central bank follows the SVR at a set rate, eg, if the SVR is 4% and the rate is SVR to charge other banks and minus one percentage point, it's 3%. lenders when they borrow We're checking with the big lenders money – and influences what what they plan to do with SVR rates borrowers pay and savers earn. and will add details to the table Five members of the MPC voted in favour of the rise to 0.5% while four voted to raise rates to 0.75%. The rise marks the central bank's first back-toback increase since June 2004, after it lifted rates from 0.1% to 0.25% in December 2021. The increase also comes on the back of official data published in January that showed inflation had risen to its highest level in more than a decade. The consumer prices index (CPI) measure of inflation hit 5.4% in the year to January. Periods of high inflation often lead to interest rate rises, in a bid to stop or slow people's spending, which may then supress inflation.

According to UK Finance, 74% of all current mortgages are fixed, meaning for the vast of majority of mortgage holders, nothing will change. The key points for mortgage holders are: • Fixes are fixed – but sort a new deal soon now if yours is coming to an end. As the name suggests, rates – and the amount you pay – WON'T change during the fixed period.

on 9 February for tracker products and up to 0.40% on 1 March 2022 for all other variable rate products. • Santander: Rate for Life and Good for If you're on a tracker mortgage. If you're Life accounts will both increase by concerned about this rise, or further 0.25 percentage points rate rises, check now to see if you can switch to a better deal. However, do Many banks and building societies don't check if there are penalties to leave raise rates in response to a base rate your current deal now - many trackers rise. Yet it's worth everyone checking do have them. If not, then you're free to the rate they're getting and seeing if switch to another mortgage. they need to shift their savings.

below. • On a tracker mortgage? Rates will increase. As the name suggests, these 'track' the base rate, so mortgage costs will go up.

What should I do? What you should do depends on what sort of mortgage you have now and whether you're close to the end of your initial mortgage term:

• If you're on a fixed rate. Nothing will change with your existing deal, however, any new deal you remortgage to in future may now be more expensive. If you're close to the end of your current term, you might want to search for a new mortgage Base rate rises may affect some deal now. You can usually lock in a borrowers' mortgages, unless they're on mortgage offer three to six months a fixed rate deal. Savers are usually ahead of time. less affected by base rate moves, but if If you've six months or longer to go on you have savings, a few banks and your fix, you'll either need to wait for building societies are changing their your initial deal term to run out, or pay rates. the charge to leave early. Our Ditch your Mortgage? calculator can help I have a mortgage. What you decide.

happens now?

pay the charge to leave early. Again, our Ditch your Mortgage? calculator can help you decide.

If you do have early repayment charges, • If you're on a fixed rate account, the you'll either need to wait for your initial rate is locked in for a set amount of deal term to run out, or pay the charge time and won't change. Your cash is to leave early. Our Ditch your Mortgage? also usually locked in for the entire calculator can help you decide. term, so you won't be able to switch If looking for a new deal, see our for better rates. Remortgage Guide or First-Time Buyers' • If you've a variable rate account, Guide for help, plus our Mortgage Best then your rate could go up, though Buys comparison tool for the top deals. this isn't guaranteed - each bank or And, if you're in need of a mortgage building society decides on its own broker, visit our Cheap Mortgages guide rates. Yet you can usually withdraw for the full breakdown. cash from these accounts when you want to, so you're free to switch.

I'm a saver. What happens now? The base rate increase could affect all types of savings account. In general, savers benefit from base rate rises – although most savings rates are still relatively poor and rates didn't go up much after the last rise. However, unlike mortgages rate rises, which many lenders have confirmed will be coming in over the next few months, most major providers are still deciding what to do with their savings rates. We have heard from a couple of building societies that they'll be raising rates, and will add in any others over the coming days:

If you are thinking of switching... Whatever rate you're on currently, it may be worth waiting a few days to see if best-buy rates rise in response to the base rate before switching. These are our current top picks, but they could change at any time.

• Up to 0.71% easy access. Investec pays the top easy-access rate of 0.71%, though you must save £5,000 or more to open the account. • Up to 1.4% with a one-year fix. Union Bank of India pays the top one• If you're on a standard variable rate year fixed rate of 1.4% and its (SVR) or 'discount' mortgage. If account can be opened online with you're on the SVR you're free to £1,000 or more. remortgage to a new deal at any time. • Principality: Will increase variable • Up to 1.62% with a two-year fix. It's worth checking if you can, as Charter Savings Bank pays the top savings rates for existing account SVRs tend to be pricey. two-year fixed rate of 1.62% and its holders on 1 March, by 25 percentage If you're on a discount mortgage account can be opened online with points, with a small number which has gone up, you may be able £5,000 or more. increasing by 0.1 percentage point. to remortgage without penalty, but do • West Brom BS: Will increase savings check. If not, you'll either need to wait rates by up 0.25 percentage points for your initial deal term to run out, or

Original articles can be found on the website moneysavingexpert.com

P16 Feb Mar 2022 - Barnsley Life

Major energy bill changes A must-read to clear up mass confusion about the dire 54% price cap hike, new £200 loan-not-loan, whether you should now fix, the £150 council tax rebate and more...

The markets do seem to suggest the price cap will drop in April 2023, and indeed the Chancellor told me that he'd been looking at that data when deciding policy (which I suspect is what the new 'loan-not-loan' in point 4 below is about).

individuals or households or buildings, it's about bills. You have to take it if you pay for electricity this year. You have to pay extra for it if you pay for electricity in future. It's not regulated via the Financial Conduct Authority. It doesn't go on your credit file.

After an awful six months, with millions seeing their energy firms go bust, the nation faces a onceunthinkable, but still catastrophic and disastrous, 54% rise in bills in April. Below are 10 must knows to hopefully clarify things.

And of course, while a war in Europe is worrying for a whole lot more than just energy prices, if the Russia-Ukraine conflict escalates substantially, that's likely to see wholesale prices ramp up further.

It's an energy levy (like the green infrastructure levy added to bills). First there's a negative levy reducing bills, then a levy added to them. While for people whose home-situation doesn't change it will feel like a £200 loan repaid at £40/yr, for others there are bizarre outcomes, eg...

3. There are NO tariffs meaningfully cheaper than the price cap Before the energy world changed last October, I always said the price cap rate 1. On 1 April the energy price cap rises 54% - you'll pay half again on top of what was pants, so switch to something cheaper. Today there are no tariffs you pay now (up an average £700/yr) The vast majority of homes in England, Scot meaningfully cheaper than the price cap and Wales (NI doesn't have a cap) are now and the cheapest open-market fixes are all more expensive than the 1 April price cap. on price-capped, default standard variable tariffs - pretty much anyone who isn't still When the rate rises in April, as it's a cap, on a fixed deal. firms can choose to charge less, but most main suppliers have always priced their As we've long predicted, on Thursday, we standard tariffs within a couple of quid of it. got the hideous news it'd rise an I don't see that changing unless wholesale unaffordable-for-many, poverty-inducing 54%, for six months from 1 April. The rise is rates rapidly drop. down to the fact the algorithm is partly based on wholesale energy prices and they 4. In October a loan-not-loan will reduce bills by £200, then raise them by £40/yr exploded during the August to January for 5yrs from April 2023 (not N. Ireland) assessment period. Yet, remember, the The Chancellor announced three new price cap is misnamed... measures on Thursday. What's looking to be the most controversial is what he called There's NO MAX you can pay on energy. a £200 "energy bills rebate" for ALL Use more, pay more. What's actually households in Eng, Scot and Wales. capped are electricity & gas standing There's been much confusion about this, in charges and kWh rates. brief though there are two elements here... To show the scale of magnitude, someone with average direct debit use currently pays • In around October 2022: EVERY ELECTRICITY BILL will be reduced by a flat £1,277/yr (£1,309/yr prepay). From 1 £200 (though a consultation may mean it's April, they'll pay £1,971/yr (£2,017/yr paid across a few months, not in one go). prepay) - a £693/yr rise (£708/yr). There is no choice - YOU CAN'T OPT OUT. 2. If things stay as they are, the October Prepay users will get the money via their smart meter, voucher, cheque or similar. price cap will rise another 20% on top As most energy decisions are made for at For those with small bills, the flat £200 will least a year, it's worth knowing what rate have a big impact; for those with big bills, a the crystal ball currently shows for the 1 little one. October price cap - based on wholesale energy costs over February to July. • From April 2023: EVERY ELECTRICITY BILL will have a £40/yr levy added to it, and If wholesale rates stay roughly where they are right now, we would see a rise again in that will happen for five years to effectively repay the initial discount. And in a reverse October of 20% on top of April, taking the to October, for those with small bills, the rate for someone with average use to flat £40 will have a bigger impact than for £2,365/yr. Though it should be noted, those with big bills. regulator Ofgem is consulting on changing the cap more frequently so the October rate While many are calling this a loan, it isn't. It's automatic, not optional. It isn't linked to may not last the full six months.

very expensive band D properties in London, and some people with low incomes in band E homes. He didn't mention though that councils are allowed to increase the tax by up to 3% in April, which would add £57/yr to a typical band D property's bill, eating away some of this.

6. Not due the council tax discount but struggling? You may be able to get 'discretionary help' Many homes are exempt from council tax, as are all-student households and student nurses, and some of those households won't get the £150. So there will be a £144 million discretionary fund distributed via local authorities in England that should - LOSERS: Five people share a house in Oct cover some of those cases and those who then separate. They get 1 x £200 discount slip through the net, but we don't have off their bill. They then all move out and live eligibility criteria yet. alone. From the following April all five of them will have bills £40/yr higher. Similar PS: The Chancellor called me two days for those moving out of parents' houses in before the announcement to get my the five years. thoughts. He wouldn't tell me what his - WINNERS: Two singles live alone in Oct, then meet. They each get a £200/yr discount, then they move in together, so they've only one bill, and it'll just have one £40/yr added. Ultimately, I believe the Chancellor is taking a big gamble that energy bills will drop rapidly by April 2023. If they don't, this is a lose-lose of high bills with an added levy on top - political dynamite. I'm already hearing protests. A staggering 80% of 44,000 votes in my Opt out? Twitter poll said they'd opt out if they could (though that poll's NOT statistically representative so more research is needed). I think we may see changes in the consultation.

plans were but did say: "Sadly no system is perfect". So, mindful of those excluded from Covid support, I said: "Then why not set up a discretionary fund for the edge cases?" He perked up and said: "That's a great idea". 7. Is it time to ditch the price cap and get a fix? (Spoiler alert: for most, no) For months, for most the right thing to do has been 'nothing' as then you either stay on the price cap or move to it when your cheap fix ends (or your energy firm goes bust).

So let's look at the price cap. What we now know is that the current price cap is due to go up 54% on 1 April. Now as there is actually no price cap, I'm going to explain this by what an average user would pay. But 5. Households in England in council tax of course, if you use more you pay more, if bands A to D get £150 rebate in April you use less you pay less. Today, that's towards energy increases £1,277 a year, but from 1 April, it's £1,971 The other rabbit the Chancellor pulled out a year – a rise of £693 a year, or £708 a of his hat last week was a £150 council tax year for those of you on prepay. rebate for homes in England in bands A to D (about 80% of homes), to be paid in April. "But we have to look a year ahead. So what He chose council tax because energy bills are household bills, so council tax is a decent proxy, and bands A to D reach many lower and middle-income homes. Indeed the independent Resolution Foundation said it's on the progressive side, though isn't without challenges. The Chancellor admitted to me, it's not a perfect system, as some get it who don't need it - after all, council tax is based on 1991 valuations so there are now some

happens on 1 October when it changes again? Well, that's based on wholesale rates from the beginning of this month until the end of July. And we don't know [yet what these prices will be]. But what we can see is if those wholesale rates stayed where they are right now, in October there would be another rise of 20% on top, putting rates for typical use over £2,300 a year. For those who had a cheap fix last year, it's nearly two and a half times more.

"So of course the question you will ask me is: 'Should I be sticking on the price cap? Should I fix?' Well, I've done the numbers, I've had to make a lot of assumptions. I don't have a crystal ball. "If we assume that in October, the price cap stays at where it is in April, you would have to find a fix that was less than 44% more expensive than where we are right now for it to be worth fixing. If we think it's going to go up in October as that line shows by 20%, you need to find a fix that is no more than 59% more than the price cap today. "And let's have a look at the fixes. The cheapest fix right now is 68% more than the current price cap, way more than the 1 April price cap, and even more than my high-end scenario of it going up by 20% in October. "Now of course anything can happen. But there isn't any market fix that you should be going for right now. Maybe some existing customers in certain circumstances with high or low use might find one. But the big message for most people – DO NOTHING. Stick on the price cap. Don't fix. Do nothing is still the answer. 8. Warm home discount to rise £10, to £150 (woop-de-woop) though wider eligibility criteria will be expanded The warm home discount is paid to many on low incomes, including pensioners. The Government says it will continue with plans to increase it by £10 (not exactly huge since it's been the same for eight years, while energy prices have more than doubled in the last year alone). It also plans to extend the eligibility criteria so an additional 780,000 households will qualify, but we don't yet know who. Likely it'll be more people on means-tested benefits. 9. Energy price hikes will be hell for many. If you're already struggling to pay, some help may be available... Even with the Government announcements, as I told the Chancellor directly, I still believe some will be left with the choice of freeze or starve. Citizens Advice reports record numbers asking for energy help, and that's before April's huge hikes. 10. The other way to cut bills, is, obviously, to use less... Our energy saving guide on the right will help with the simpler stuff, such as turning your thermostat down and cutting shower time.

Barnsley Life - Feb Mar 2022 P17

HOW TO SAVE ENERGY 1. Turn your thermostat down This is one of the easiest things to do on this list. For each degree you cut the thermostat, expect to cut bills by 4%-ish, or about £65 a year on average for a typical home. Of course, it might cause some arguments with family, flatmates or fussy pets, but the World Health Organisation says that 18 degrees is enough for healthy adults, with slightly higher temperatures needed for the very old or young. So consider popping on a jumper at home and seeing what temperature your household is comfortable at. And while we're talking heating, a common debate is whether it is cheaper to leave the heating on low all day, rather than just turning it on when you need it. The Energy Saving Trust is adamant you should only have your heating on when required. 2. Fit a free water-saving shower head Reducing your water usage can cut bills for those on water meters, help the environment, and reduce energy costs too, as when you use less water, you usually heat less water. There's no shortage of free water-saving gadgets available from water firms. What you can get depends on where you live and varies throughout the year. If you balk at the idea of having shorter showers or showering less often – the easiest way to save – a water-saving shower head may be your best bet. We can't promise you won't still be told to hurry up by impatient family members, but you will have more money in your pocket. For a typical family, it's a 2%-ish saving, or about £35 a year on average for a typical home. And if you're not on a water meter, you can get one fitted for free in England and Wales. 3. Don't assume all energy-saving light bulbs are equal LED uses about half the energy of the bigger fluorescent spiral 'energy-saving bulbs'. Obviously turning 'em off when

Original articles can be found on the website moneysavingexpert.com

The savings aren't huge, around £10 a year for modern machines, but can be much more with old ones. You could also try doing your washing on a colder setting. 7. Think 'how many cuppas am I making?' The more water you boil, the more energy you use. Be conscious about this when filling the kettle, so you don't overfill. Simple, but effective, with a saving of £8 a year possible.

you're not in the room helps too. There will be an initial outlay, but you should recoup it fairly quickly. 4. Turn draught detective Walk round your home spotting window and door draughts. Decent draught-proofing can cut 2% off energy bills, so about £30 a year on average for a typical home. This applies to chimneys too, where you can get a 1.5%-ish further reduction. Again, this is subject to an initial outlay, but you will make it back over time. Some also say that putting clingfilm on your windows can help trap the heat in to stop it escaping. And oddly enough, the Energy Saving Trust told us putting clingfilm on windows actually works. It says adding a second layer, as long as it's transparent and airtight, will make a difference. But some may just want to keep using clingfilm for their sandwiches. 5. Cut your shower time Cutting just a minute off your shower time could save £75 a year in energy bills, and a further £105 a year in water bills if you have a meter – £180 a year for an average four-person household. Try buying a shower timer to keep your eye on the ball (or just set an alarm on your phone). You could also sing along to a shorter song while you're in there – those within earshot may thank you. 6. Wash more clothes less – and try not to use the tumble dryer Try to do one fewer load of washing a week and make sure you fill up the machine each time. No more washing just one shirt or dress that you need for a big night out.

Some Forumites even recommend buying a smaller kettle, so you aren't tempted to overfill. But if you can be strict with yourself with your larger kettle and only fill it with what you are going to use, you shouldn't need to. 8. Don't leave your devices on standby (though it's not the problem it used to be) Switching off your devices is better than leaving them on standby, of course, as otherwise you're using energy for something you're not making use of. But it's nowhere near the problem it once was. The Energy Saving Trust says you can save £40 a year by switching devices off standby, but we reckon this figure is a bit overblown. It's EU law that TVs and other devices made since 2013 can't use more than 0.5 watts in standby mode. To show the scale of it, a TV watched four hours a day and left on standby the rest of the time would cost 77p a year. 9. Use radiator thermostats Don't heat the whole house when you're spending all day in one room. Thermostatic radiator valves are an extra control which you can use to set the temperature of each individual room (other than where your main thermostat is). When the temperature in that room rises above what's set on the radiator valve, it will stop water flowing through that particular radiator – the boiler will still be on to heat other rooms, but it will use less energy. Installing them and using them with your thermostat allows you to control the temperature room by room, and could save you almost 6%, so about £85 a year on average for a typical home, although an initial outlay is needed.

P18 Feb Mar 2022 - Barnsley Life

S B U P T S O L ’S Y E L S N R BA Carrying on from last month’s page we have another selection of old pubs from Barnsley’s past Pictures from the facebook page Barnsley’s Lost Pubs and Google Street View

Barnsley Life - Feb Mar 2022 P19

WE’RE STRONGER TOGETHER As we get further into the New Year it’s a good time to remind people of the various things Age UK Barnsley do. They provide a number of services across the Barnsley Council area. These include social inclusion services combatting social isolation and loneliness, a free Information and Advice service, Men in Sheds projects and a Day Care Service. The services are available to anyone over 50 living in the Barnsley area, with the benefits advice focusing on State Pension age benefits. That’s just the tip of the iceberg, Age UK Barnsley are working alongside many local partners to

help make things happen for the people of Barnsley. Here’s just a flavour of some of the things that are happening:

Age Friendly Barnsley Barnsley has joined the UK network of Age Friendly communities and working together we want everyone in Barnsley to enjoy healthy and active ageing. Healthier Communities at Barnsley Council are working with Age UK Barnsley and other partners, including South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive, Barnsley Clinical Commissioning Group, Barnsley Dementia Action Alliance, Barnsley

U3A and other local voluntary organisations. It’s about making the most of life and annual highlights include the Love Later Life events taking place in late September/early October.

Space (Barnsley Carers Service). Some services are Dementia specific and others are Dementia friendly running across client groups. More details can be obtained by calling 01226 776822.

Barnsley Third Sector Dementia Alliance

BOPPAA (Barnsley Older People Physical Activity Alliance)

This is a partnership of six locally based organisations who work together to provide a combined service offer for people living with dementia and their carers. The alliance members are Alzheimer’s Society, Age UK Barnsley, BIADS, Butterflies, Crossroads and Making

BOPPAA is bringing together organisations offering physical activities to help co-ordinate and promote what is on offer to Barnsley’s over 50s. This will include Walking Sports (Football, Cricket, Netball etc.), social walks,

gym/indoor based activities, pool based activities and dance. The Alliance will also ensure Barnsley’s older people have the chance to have their physical health assessed by Functional Fitness MOT assessors who can help them access relevant physical activity opportunities in their area. Jane Holliday, CEO Age UK Barnsley, had this to say: ‘Whilst we can do a lot of good as an individual local charity we are proud members of the local voluntary sector here in Barnsley working together under the umbrella of Barnsley CVS striving to achieve the best we can for the people of Barnsley.’

Contact Age UK Barnsley on 01226 776820 email: enquiries@ageukbarnsley.org.uk or for their Information & Advice Service ring 01226 776825 email: information@ageukbarnsley.org.uk

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BARNSLEY Life

Recipe Page

Broad Bean, Dill and Hazelnut Risotto METHOD 1. Put the stock in a pan, bring to a simmer and keep on a low heat to stay hot until you need it. Add the thicker dill stalks to the stock to infuse.

Ingredients: 1 litre veg stock (use GF stock if required) ½ x 28g pack dill, stalks and fronds separated, fronds chopped 1 tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp butter 1 leek, finely sliced 200g risotto rice 150ml white wine 50g soft cheese 50g Italian hard cheese or Parmesan, grated 300g double-podded broad beans 25g hazelnuts

2. Heat the oil and half the butter in a deep frying pan. Fry the leeks for 10 minutes until tender. 3. Stir in the rice, coating the grains in the oil. Toast the rice for a few minutes, then pour in the wine and bubble until it's nearly all evaporated. 4. Add the hot stock (you can discard the dill stalks now), a ladleful at a time, continually stirring. Let the stock be completely absorbed by the rice before adding another ladleful. 5. When the rice is tender and most of the stock is used (you may not need all the stock, depending on the width of your pan), about 25-30 minutes, stir in the soft cheese, grated hard cheese and remaining butter. Season well and add half the dill fronds, and all the broad beans. Cover the pan with a lid or

baking sheet, turn off the heat and leave to rest for 10 minutes. The broad beans will gently cook in the residual heat. 6. Meanwhile toast the hazelnuts in a small pan, until lightly golden, then roughly chop. Scatter the risotto with more dill and the hazelnuts to serve.

Millionaire’s Custard Caramel Chocolate Trifle METHOD 1. Pour the ready-made custard into a pan, add the caramel and chocolate and heat over a low heat, mixing together until smooth and melted. Pour into a bowl and leave to cool, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin forming. 2. Put the double cream, icing sugar and vanilla extract into a separate bowl and whip together to form soft peaks. 3. Slice the Swiss roll into 1cm round slices and then place a layer of slices into the bottom of a large serving dish about 20cm in diameter and 10cm deep (glass is best so you can see the layers). Add half of the custard mixture and spread evenly, then add a 5. Top with a layer of brownie bites and the layer of shortbread biscuits. Add a third of the remaining whipped cream. Drizzle over some whipped cream and then drizzle over a third of the chocolate sauce, the rest of the caramel sauce and caramel sauce. any decoration you fancy, such as sprinkles, or 4. Repeat with another layer of Swiss roll slices, the chocolates! other half of the custard, another layer of shortbread 6. Leave the trifle in the fridge to set for about 1 biscuits, a third of the whipped cream and a third of hour before tucking in. the caramel sauce.

Ingredients: 500ml ready-made vanilla custard 100g ready-made caramel 100g milk or dark chocolate, chopped 600ml double cream 2 tbsp icing sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 x jumbo chocolate Swiss roll 500g shortbread biscuits 300g caramel sauce For the topping: 1 x packet brownie bites 100g chocolate sauce chocolates sprinkles

Barnsley Life - Feb Mar 2022 P21

Work begins on development of 35 homes Work has started on a new development of 35 homes providing a mix of houses, bungalows and apartments in Barnsley. The development, off St Michaels Avenue in Monk Bretton, will provide a mixture of homes for social rent, private sale and private rent. Sixteen of the new properties will be low carbon, constructed with sustainable features and energysaving technology such as air source heat pumps instead of mains gas. Barnsley Council named Esh Construction as the appointed contractor after the scheme was procured through YORhub’s YORbuild2 framework. Esh Operations Director, Simon Woodward, said: “Across our construction projects we aim to maximise the social and economic benefit for the local community.

Throughout this scheme we will aim to procure a local supply chain, employ a local workforce and support community initiatives. “We are delighted to commence work on the first new-build housing development Esh will deliver for Barnsley Council, marking a significant milestone in our growth across the Yorkshire region.” The development was given the goahead by planners in December 2020 and will provide 24 two, three and four-bedroom houses, 7 two-bedroom bungalows, and 4 two-bedroom apartments. It forms part of the council’s housing strategy to increase the supply of affordable housing and private rented homes to deliver a diverse range of properties and tenures to help create sustainable communities. Cllr Tim Cheetham, Barnsley

Council’s Cabinet spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture, said: “The government says that we must provide 21,524 new homes by 2033, and we’re dedicated to making sure our borough will have sustainable, quality housing, so you can live in the right house for you. “I’m delighted we’re now able to get moving on these exciting new homes which will help us achieve that.” Esh Construction will work in partnership with Jefferson Sheard Architects and MJM Consulting Engineers. Construction work is now underway with the first new homes being available for residents in Spring 2023. To enquire about the new homes for sale on this development, please contact William H Brown, Barnsley on 01226 733456.

No matter what the weather is – stay active this Febru-welly Febru-welly is coming back for the second year, and it’s here to encourage families across the borough to stay active this month, no matter what the weather is. This is part of the What’s Your Move campaign, which encourages all people across Barnsley to move

more for good mental and physical health. Families are invited to participate and join in an online competition by sharing their pictures in three categories – the biggest splash, the bestlooking wellies and the muddiest wellies, on Facebook and Twitter using

the hashtag #BarnsleySplash. The winners will be announced in early March, and the authors of the best pictures will win some great prizes. Cllr James Andrews, Cabinet Spokesperson for Public Health, said: “Since the beginning of the pandemic, we’ve learned to

appreciate our time outdoors, and remaining active has been essential for our mental and physical wellbeing. “Febru-welly is fun, and we would like you, your friends and family to join in and explore the great outdoors no matter what the weather is.”

For more information about Febru-welly and on how to participate in the photo competition, please visit the What’s Your Move social media pages on Facebook and Twitter.

THURSDAY 5PM - 9PM FRIDAY 5PM - 9.30PM SATURDAY 4PM - 9.30PM SUNDAY 5PM - 8.30PM

P22 Feb Mar 2022 - Barnsley Life

Barnsley couple urge others to make a will and support the hospice Former Worsborough Common publicans Fred and Mary Robertson are encouraging people to get around the making their will this month (February). During Barnsley Hospice’s Make a Will Month local people can make their will in return for a donation to the charity. Have you booked your appointment yet? Latest research shows that three in five UK adults have not made a will despite it being highly recommended to do so by solicitors. Fred and Mary are former licensees and ran the White Bear and Prince of Wales Feathers in Worsbrough Common for many years. They have made and updated their wills as part of the hospice’s Make a Will Month in previous years, and encourage others to take part in this year’s annual fundraiser. Mary said: “We’ve never had any hesitation

whatsoever about making a will and keeping it up-todate. We had to make some changes when we moved house, got new grandchildren and so on. “It just feels better to keep on top of it and have it all sorted. Making and updating our will in Barnsley Hospice Make a Will Month allows us to look after our own family whilst supporting others at the hospice after we are gone.” Now, living in Pogmoor, Barnsley, have been married 48 years and have two children and five grandchildren. Make a Will Month allows Barnsley people to make a will with a choice of seven participating solicitors firms – and instead of paying a fee to the solicitor, make a donation to the hospice. The solicitors kindly waive their fees during February to support this annual fundraiser which raised £8,000 for the hospice last

year. Jessica Rowbotham, wills and probate solicitor at Ison Harrison in Regent Street, said: “We are very happy to be supporting Barnsley Hospice's Make a Will Month. Everyone who makes a will through this initiative can ensure the people they wish to benefit from their assets do so after their death, whilst also supporting Barnsley Hospice which provides invaluable and exceptional care to the people who need it most in our local area.” A few Make a Will Month appointments in February are still available - please contact Ison Harrison Solicitors; Peace Legal Limited (Wombwell) Best Solicitors; Bury & Walkers LLP; Elmhirst Parker LLP; ; Pennine Law Solicitors, and Wosskow Brown LLP. If you miss the chance this year, don't worry look out for Make a Will Month in February 2023.

Barnsley Life - Feb Mar 2022 23

SAGARS 365, KEEPING CONSERVATORIES WARM IN WINTER AND COOL IN SUMMER Many conservatory owners have installed additional heating but become concerned about rising energy bills. They may have considered a solid tiled roof but been put off by the cost – this is where Sagars 365 can help.

well as keeping the heat out in summer. The cost is less than you might expect. With this month’s 25% discount, insulating a 3m x 3m, polycarbonate roofed, lean to conservatory starts at just £1,899 including VAT. With interest-free credit you could spread the The family-run Yorkshire cost over 6 or 10 months based company use their (subject to approval). The revolutionary insulation work is typically completed system to turn conservatories in one day and you can into rooms that can be used choose either a tongue and every day of the year by groove PVC or premium minimising condensation, plastered finish. Sagars reducing noise in bad 365 is a company that you weather, reducing heat loss can trust - they have an in winter by over 90% as overall ‘Excellent’ rating on

Trustpilot, they’re a Which? Trusted trader and offer a 10-year guarantee. All the work is carried out by Sagars inhouse team. No deposit required. If you’re looking to keep your conservatory warm in winter and cool in summer, call Sagars 365 on (XXXXX) XXXXXX to 01226 229417 arrange a free, no obligation survey and quote.

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P24 Feb Mar 2022 - Barnsley Life

BARNSLEY Life Puzzle Page

clues for this issues quick crossword

sports word search Golf runninG cyclinG cricket fishinG

weiGhtliftinG netball hockey squash skatinG

snooker tennis ruGby football swimminG

Clues Across

Clues Down

1. Surgical tongs (7) 10. Removal (11) 11. Aping (7) 12. Voluntary fees paid (9) 13. Norse god of thunder (4) 14. Greek B (4) 16. Disfigure (6) 18. Perform duties (9) 20. Hold dear (7) 22. Soil (5) 23. Cord worn around the neck (7) 24. Acquiring (9) 26. Short of money (4,2) 29. Son of Noah (4) 30. Examined by touching (4) 31. Ephemeral (9) 34. I'm bored (anag.) (7) 35. Becoming slower (mus.) (11) 36. Spanish inquisitor (7)

1. Jokingly (11) 2. Censure (7) 3. Give out (4) 4. Isolated from others (10) 5. Unfeelingly (4,1,5,2,5) 6. Erred (6) 7. So-so (4) 8. Minute piece of silicon (9) 9. Embed (5) 15. Northern European country (7) 17. Plant of the iris family (7) 19. Inconsiderate (11) 20. Talkative person (inf.) (10) 21. Helplessly drunk (9) 25. Spanish or Portuguese (7) 27. Nice (6) 28. Harsh, unadorned (5) 32. Hut (4) 33. Shape (4)

sudoku There is just one simple rule in Sudoku. Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box.

Find solutions on page 29

MYSTERY DOG ILLNESS SEES NORTH OF ENGLAND ‘SPIKE’ A mystery illness in dogs which was previously linked to beach walks has been spreading among canines inland. Some owners have said their dogs have vomited and suffered diarrhoea due to an unknown sickness after walks. The British Veterinary Association said reports of the bug had "spiked" in Yorkshire and the North East, with cases "more widespread than usual". Dog owners have said most cases were mild, with only a few animals needing veterinary treatment. A spate of cases of dogs in coastal areas becoming ill following walks on nearby beaches had previously been reported. But the British Veterinary Association said more cases were now being reported to vets much further inland and involving dogs who had not been to a beach. Dog walker Ali Cutting said a quarter of the animals she regularly walked had been hit by the bug, and it was unclear

from where they had caught it. Ms Cutting said: "Most of them have been mild, but one of my dogs, Rocco, had it quite badly. He had to go to the vets for four or five days, but thankfully all OK now." Meanwhile, Helen Reed, from Leeds, said Rex, her three-yearold springer spaniel, became ill two weeks ago. "On Sunday, it just started with diarrhoea and we thought he might have picked something up on his walk, eaten something a bit funny. "Then, on the Monday, he was just being sick absolutely everywhere." Rex did not need treatment at a vets, but Ms Reed said it was important for dog owners to keep a close eye on their pets. The British Veterinary Association said at the moment there was not enough evidence to firmly determine where the sickness had come from after cases were first reported near beaches. Association president Dr

Barnsley Life - Feb Mar 2022 25

Justine Shotton said: "We are aware of a recent spike in cases of dogs falling ill from gastroenteritis-like symptoms in several parts of Yorkshire and North East England. "Vets see gastroenteritis cases relatively commonly in practice, but numbers seem to be increasing and more widespread than usual." Dr Shotton added that while most cases were mild, some dogs "may need hospitalisation with a drip". It was possible the current virus was a seasonal illness, Dr Shotton said. "We saw something similar a couple of years ago and the latest data from the University of Liverpool's veterinary surveillance database points to the spike being part of normal seasonal variation at the moment. "Our advice to concerned owners is to contact their local vet for prompt treatment if their dog shows any signs of illness, such as vomiting and diarrhoea," she said.

HOME VISITS Are you struggling with your eyes, vision or glasses but unable to attend a Specsavers store to get checked? Did you know Specsavers can bring the test to you? If you meet the criteria to qualify the Specsavers Home Visiting team can visit you and conduct your eye test in the comfort of your own home.

You will qualify for a home eye test if you are unable to get to a store unaccompanied due to a medical condition and fall into one of the following categories: • Over 60 • Under 16 • In full time education aged 16, 17 or 18 • Receive benefits such as Income Support, Employment and Support Allowance, Jobseekers Allowance, Universal Credit • Diabetic • Over 40 with a family history of glaucoma As a front line service supporting the NHS we are still operating despite the Covid19 pandemic. All our teams are equipped with full PPE and will always enter your home wearing this. We are an experienced team. Our two directors are Mel Wilson (Ophthalmic Director) and Emma Taylor (Customer Service Director). Mel qualified as an optometrist in 1998 and has worked in store for large chains and independent businesses. She found her passion for domiciliary work 4 years ago and has been part of the home visiting team ever since. Emma is a qualified dispensing optician and, like Mel, is very experienced having worked in the industry for 13 years both in store and, more recently dedicating herself to the domiciliary team. Emma and Mel are passionate about their work and, along with their team of friendly,

knowledgeable optical assistants, are committed to helping people in the community. We often get asked how a home visit test works. And it’s really quite straightforward! Firstly, a full general health history is taken. We then take a look at your existing glasses so we can check the current prescription. This helps us understand a little more about you and compare your current prescription to your new one. We perform a range of eye health tests including the glaucoma test and a health check of the front and back of the eye. Next, we start to understand if your prescription has changed. This process is quite similar to what you will have had done in store. We use a trial frame a and range of lenses to check how well you can see the test chart. Our test chart, though, is on a tablet!

Mel Wilson Once this has been completed we can then make recommendations taking into account your home situation and visual requirements. We have a large selection of frames some of which you will see in store and some of which are domiciliary specific. Our offers and pricing are also the same as in store. Our testing kit has a range of low vision equipment and we’re are happy to demonstrate how this works and could benefit you. This includes low visions aides for both distance near vision. Once you have chosen your new glasses, they are placed on order and generally delivered and fitted within 14 days. A full at home aftercare service is available so we can look after you and your glasses between appointments!

If you feel you qualify for a home visit or want any more details, please call us on 01226 982517 where Christina or Kelly will take your call in our Barnsley based office.

Book your appointment now at - www.specsavers.co.uk/homevisits

P26 Feb Mar 2022 - Barnsley Life

Barnsley Life - Feb Mar 2022 27

Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT)

Are you h A having i ttrouble bl sleeping? l i ?F Feeling li stressed, tressed, anxious, worried or have low mood generally? It’s important to look after your mental health as well as your physical health. However you’ve been affected by the pandemic, it’s OK K not to be OK. We offer treatment face to face, on the phone, online, via interpreters and using British Sign Language. IAPT is still here with support for everyone aged 16+ registered egistered with a Barnsley GP.

Visit www.barnsleyiapt.co.uk or call 01226 644900 4900

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P28 Feb Mar 2022 - Barnsley Life

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BARNSLEY Life FREE PAPER - Dec Jan 2021/2022 - Issue 7

Inside

Notton Woods

Getting Winter Ready

A relaxing winter woodland walk on the doorstep P6

How to avoid winter disasters as the temperature plummets P8

Restaurant Review

AFC Pogmoor Fundraiser

A midweek visit to Darton’s Balti Palace P7

The under 16’s were taken on by Poggy All Stars veteran’s team P21

Covid Memorial unveiled A bronze memorial sculpture has been unveiled in Barnsley to commemorate those who have lost their lives or loved ones during the continuing pandemic, as well as serving as a tribute to key workers and unsung heroes. ‘Reverence’ features seven figures cast in bronze, including a young girl, older man, volunteer, nurse, carer, police officer and a teacher. The inspiring figures span all generations and communities and represent the real, ordinary people who have been affected, and continue to be affected, by the pandemic. The unique artwork has been created by acclaimed sculptor Graham Ibbeson in collaboration with Lockbund Foundry, with poet Ian McMillan providing the emotive words ‘Barnsley’s fierce love holds you forever in its heart’. Drawings of key workers by local school children have been turned into a stunning bronze panel, which decorates the plinth. Guests including HM Lord Lieutenant Professor Dame Hilary Chapman, Lord Bishop Sentamu PC of Lindisfarne and Masooli, local MPs and Members of Barnsley Council, together with representatives from the Council and key partners, joined bereaved families, key workers and members of the public in Barnsley’s new Glass Works Square for the unveiling ceremony.

Celebrated gospel singer Janine Dyer opened the event with a rendition of Amazing Grace and there were several speakers and readings, ending with Lord Bishop Sentamu PC of Lindisfarne and Masooli who delivered a message of hope before he and Dame Hilary, together with key workers, unveiled the artwork. The sculpture is one of the first permanent Covid memorials in the world and unique because it features ordinary working people who are hugely under-represented in public art. Council Leader Sir Steve Houghton, CBE said: “This memorial project is an enduring work of art to remember those we’ve lost and to commemorate the incredible efforts of those that worked, and continue to work, so tirelessly to look after us and keep our communities going. “It is a tribute to the real heroes of the pandemic, the ordinary working people of Barnsley and the country as a whole. Working people as a group are vastly underrepresented in public art and we are proud to be at the forefront of recognising them in this sculpture.” Barnsley Hospital Chief Executive Dr Richard Jenkins said: “It’s wonderful to see this tribute to the hard working people of Barnsley who dedicate themselves to serving their community. Everyone working in healthcare has been greatly affected by the pandemic, and it is right to

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take time to reflect on the variety of people and professions that have brought us this far.” Sculptor Graham Ibbeson said: “This is a memorial to people who have passed and in recognition of those who keep this country going. It’s a sculpture of hope and will be the first permanent memorial of its type in the country. I was honoured to give my time to be involved with this project.” Ian McMillan said: “I’m proud that this memorial will be a tangible reminder for generations to come of

the terrible times that visited us and how we stared them in the face and, despite terrible losses, carried on.’ ‘Reverence’ is part of a wider project of remembrance and reflection organised by Barnsley Council and partners including Barnsley Hospital, Berneslai Homes and the region’s emergency services. An exhibition linked to the Covid Memorial Project will be on display in the new Gallery@ The Glass Works, allowing for ongoing reflection and messages of commemoration and support.

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P30 Feb Mar 2022 - Barnsley Life

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Inside

Room

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to mak Experts explain how 17 ent climate P14 decisions in the curr

Thinking of Going

You wouldn't driv ea

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y le s n r a B y b d e im Expenses cla £1m t s o lm a o t t n u o m a MPs iamentary The Independent Parl (IPSA) Standards Authority data showing recently released nsley’s four costs claimed by Bar 2020/21 the in MPs Labour ed financial year exceed £928,000. ent enjoys A Member of Parliam ry of a basic annual sala ained £81,932, which rem previous unchanged from the able to also are they year, but to cover the claim allowances r thei king erta costs of und and constituency work ents, stitu con r representing thei covering the which will include e, offic an expenses of running travel. employing staff and and orth John Healey (Wentw highest Dearne) incurred the just over costs of the four at closely by £254,000, followed istone and Miriam Cates (Pen 1,578 and Stocksbridge) at £24 ey Central) at Dan Jarvis (Barnsl nie Peacock £235,720. Stepha med (Barnsley East) clai was the least £196,533, which Barnsley’s from amount claimed four MPs. expenses The budgets for MP ed and are closely controll

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e f i L Y E L BARNS A Night at the Lamp

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Extension

Barnsley Life - Feb Mar 2022 31

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P32 Feb Mar 2022 - Barnsley Life