TheCOMMUNITY CONNECTOR
Hello! Welcome to the Spring 2025 Community Connector,
the newsletter for everyone in Darnall, Tinsley, Attercliffe and Handsworth - keeping you up to date with all the exciting things happening in the area ! As the days start to get longer and warmer in this edition there’s an update from the East Local Area Committee about the projects they have been funding (p2), learn all about the new Lord of Tinsley (p3) and read how Phillimore Community Primary School is celebrating their 100 year anniversary (p5). There’s also a feature written especially for us by housing charity Shelter, focusing on overcrowding (p17).
And we’re celebrating Iftar events (p13) as well as looking forward to Easter (p6). There’s so much going on in the area! We love hearing from you and content is always welcome. Do get in touch if you have something you’d like to share for the next edition or your views and feedback on this edition. Send your news, stories and information to: communityconnectordarnall@gmail.com
Tu je jarné vydanie vášho bulletinu! Obsahuje veľa informácií o miestnej oblasti a o podpore, ktorá je k dispozícii v našej komunite.
Iftar at Oasis Academy Don Valley Waa kan daabacaadda gu'ga ee warsidahaaga! Waxay ka kooban tahay macluumaad badan oo ku saabsan degaanka iyo taageerada laga heli karo bulshadayada.
This newsletter has been published and distributed thanks to funding and support from: If you need a large print version of the newsletter, please contact us at the email address above, and we will provide one.
Funded by Sheffield City Council’s Economic Recovery Fund
Local Life
The East Local Area Committee manages the local Ward Pot grant scheme and has funded some wonderful local projects this year, such as children’s boxing sessions at The Thunder Project CIC, Coffee Mornings on Thursdays with Sheffield Young Explorers, IT equipment for users at Galeed House and staff at Darnall Well Being, improvements at Tinsley Allotment, a Tinsley Eid celebration, Tinsley Ramadan food packs and care packages, and lots of activities throughout the year for young people, via local providers such as DESA and Darnall FA. Please follow us on Facebook at East Sheffield Local Area Committee.
The East Local Area Committee has funded the re-installation of the festive lights to display during Eid, Easter and Christmas 2025. We are also working behind the scenes to make improvements locally with our partners.
LAC with partners planning local clean ups and design measures to reduce litter and flytipping
Operation Steel, a South Yorkshire Police initiative, was carried out with officers from the South East Neighbourhood Policing Team, working with colleagues and partners to disrupt criminality.
Ten people were arrested, five vehicles seized for a variety of offences and one stolen vehicle was recovered.
During the operation, 1,200 packets of counterfeit cigarettes were seized from businesses in the area, along with more than 400 illegal vapes.
Operation Steel is a show of strength in Sheffield which sees partners come together and disrupt criminality that we know is taking place through our day-to-day policing work.
We are committed to tackling all forms of criminality in Sheffield and we are stronger with your help. If you suspect criminal activity is
Seized by the police happening near where you live, work, or regularly visit in Sheffield, report it to us online or by calling 101. Together, we can make the city a safer place for everyone.
The Sheffield Directory www.sheffielddirectory.org.uk is a website created for the people of Sheffield and hosted by Sheffield City Council. It brings together all the information that adults, families, professionals and volunteers might need in one, easy to access place. It is available 24/7 and provides details on the universal services on offer in our city, empowering everyone to get the right help at the right time. It is made up of two parts: Advice and Information Pages, and Directory Listings. The Information Pages are split into topics, and give useful advice and updates on council, voluntary and community services.
The Directory Listings hold a wealth of organisations, services and groups, their location and contact details. Users can search using key words in a search box, and results can be filtered. The site includes an accessibility tool, Recite Me, making it accessible for all.
Visit the Sheffield Directory now to find out what support is on offer in your local area: www.sheffielddirectory.org.uk
Tinsley Life
Shaffaq Mohammed has been introduced into the House of Lords as Baron Shaffaq Mohammed MBE – Lord of Tinsley, in recognition of his work for youth work, public service and local government. A proud moment for his family and friends, and for Tinsley.
Born in Kashmir, he came to Tinsley at the age of four with his family, who worked in the steel industry. Shaffaq’s first job was at the Co-op in Hillsborough. Starting as a YTS trainee, he went on to become their youngest ever manager, managing multiple stores. He went on to study Business at the University of Sheffield. Shaffaq then became a youth worker, dedicating himself to creating pathways for disadvantaged young people to access work and education opportunities. He subsequently gained a post graduate diploma in Youth and Community Work at the University of Huddersfield, as part of his commitment to work with young people and local communities.
Locally, Shaffaq chaired Tinsley Forum campaigning for better services for local people, taking a hands-on role with many local initiatives including securing the Tinsley One Stop Shop as a community asset and supporting Tinsley Advice Service. He has been instrumental in securing funding for equipment for the local youth club and supporting the installation of defibrillators at Tinsley Forum and Sheffield Road Mosque. He is still engaged with local initiatives and is a Trust board member in Tinsley, supportive of the work that takes place across the ward.
In 2005 he became a Lib Dem Sheffield councillor, focusing on building a more supportive and inclusive community, becoming leader of the Liberal Democrat group in 2011 - a role he still holds today, as a councillor for the Ecclesall ward. Awarded an MBE for his political service in 2015, he served as an MEP from 2019 to 2020, where he advocated women's rights, environmental sustainability, human rights and civil liberties. In 2021-22, he chaired a Carers Commission, to develop new policies to support paid and unpaid carers.
Tinsley Community Allotment
Spring has arrived in Tinsley and we have re-started our Friday sessions at the Community Allotment! Everyone is welcome to come along between 1pm and 3pm to help us grow organic fruit and vegetables. Find the entrance in the car park behind Tinsley Forum, 120 Bawtry Road. You can get involved by doing some gardening jobs, such as weeding, watering and sowing seeds. If you prefer, you can just come and sit in our green space to have a cuppa and a chat. We enjoy sharing ideas about growing food and different ways to Tinsley allotment
cook and eat it. Just drop in to say hello or contact us at tinsleyallotment@gmail.com Our Friday sessions are term time only, but keep an eye on our Facebook page to see details of family events that we run in the school holidays.
Contact Tinsley Forum based at One Stop Shop, 120-126 Bawtry Road, Tinsley, S9 1UE. Tel: 0114 244 4887 or email admin@tinsleyforum.co.uk for free employment support, help and advice for work and training based in Tinsley.
Lord of Tinsley
Baron Shaffaq Mohammed
Local Life
Walk to School Week
South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard has launched his second Walk and Wheel Challenge for all primary schools in the region, in a special collaboration with Living Streets. The Mayor’s Walk and Wheel Challenge 2025 takes place during Living Streets’ national Walk to School Week, between 19 and 23 May 2025. This unique South Yorkshire collaboration means that the first 100 South Yorkshire primary schools joining the challenge will receive a free resource pack for KS1 and KS2 classes – including stickers, activity tracking charts, bookmarks and fun activity sheets. The South Yorkshire challenge will also include a prize draw for participating schools to win scooters, bikes, and cycling workshops with Ed Clancy, South Yorkshire’s Active Travel Commissioner. This year’s challenge builds on the successful Mayor’s Walk and Wheel Challenge in 2024, part of the Mayor’s Year of Active Travel. In total 78 schools across South Yorkshire were involved in last year’s event.
The Walk and Wheel Challenge encourages every primary school child in South Yorkshire to walk, wheel or cycle to school each day, to become more active and healthier. The challenge forms part of the Mayor’s key manifesto commitment to make South Yorkshire the best place in the country to walk, wheel and cycle for our children, with an ambitious plan for active travel with schools at its heart.
The Sheffield Museums Green Connections Project aims to support people in S9 to get involved with the Museums and the natural science collections, to explore and enjoy the natural environment and heritage around us, and to raise awareness of environmental matters. Throughout 2025, we’re running nature walks and talks, wildlife surveying, displays and collections handling sessions in Darnall and S9, and tours of Weston Park Museum. If you’re interested in getting involved, developing displays with us, or have ideas for other nature-based activities, we’re keen to hear from you. What we do is up to you! Contact us: ruthe.heskin@sheffieldmuseums.org.uk
Why not join us on one of our Thursday nature walks?
All run from 11am to 1pm:
24 April Bowden Housteads Wood
22 May 70 Acre Hill
29 May Sheffield and Tinsley Canal (dragonflies)
26 June Sheffield and Tinsley Canal (dragonflies)
31 July Sheffield and Tinsley Canal (dragonflies)
21 August 70 Acre Hill
28 August Sheffield and Tinsley Canal (dragonflies)
Have Your Say Sheffield is the digital engagement website for Sheffield City Council. It is an opportunity for you to comment and feedback on projects and proposals that may affect you. You can search for projects using key words or you can browse projects by Hub. The Hubs are based on our Policy Committees, plus a Hub for the Local Area Committees.
Darnall Life
Phillimore Community Primary Celebrates 100 Years!
2025 marks a momentous occasion for Phillimore Community Primary School, as it celebrates 100 years since first opening its doors on 26 January 1925. A century of education, memories and community spirit will be honoured through a series of special events planned throughout the year. Children will have the opportunity to explore different periods of history from the past 100 years, deepening their understanding of how Phillimore has evolved over time. As part of the celebrations, the school will also focus on giving back to the wider community by raising money for the Sheffield Children’s Hospital Crescent Moon and Snowflake Appeals, supporting both Ramadan and Christmas initiatives.
A special 100 Year Movie Night will be hosted for children, providing a fun and engaging way to raise funds for this meaningful cause. Later in the year, the annual Summer Fair will take on a centennial theme, bringing together families, friends and community members for a memorable celebration. As we look back on the school's rich history, we also invite past pupils and staff to a coffee morning in October, where they can reconnect and enjoy a slideshow presentation, showcasing Phillimore’s journey over the years. We warmly encourage anyone with stories, memories or photographs from their time at Phillimore to share them with us. If you have something to contribute, please get in touch at: office@phillimore.sheffield.sch.uk. Let’s come together to make this milestone year one to remember!
Darnall Alloment Project
Galeed House
Great news - Darnall Allotment Project has finally got a new plot! But we have a long way to go to get it up and running. We will be planning and rebuilding from scratch, but hopefully we will manage to grow some veggies this year, too. We will be on the Ouse Road allotment site off Staniforth Road. Follow our progress on our social media pages. Facebook https://www.facebook.com/darnallallotmentproject Instagram https://www.instagram.com/darnall.allotment/ We continue to meet every Friday at the Ouse Road allotments. If you would like to come and get involved please get in touch: Contact Sarah at darnallallotmentproj@gmail.com tel: 07415 025919 or complete our online form https://forms.gle/QYvvZK52EjJgnQLKA
Are you new to Darnall? Do you want to make new friends? You are welcome to our activities or to just come in, say hello and see what we have to offer at Galeed House at 75 Nidd Road, S9 3BB.
Galeed House is a place of friendship for everyone in Darnall. All our activities are free and open to all. We have a new project: a homework and study club for children and young people – there are volunteers at the House to help with questions, as well as it being a quiet, calm place to study. There is no need to apply or register for any of our activities – just come along, everyone is welcome! For more information, visit our website: www.galeedhouse.org.uk Activities schedule: Homework Club (aged 7-16) - Mondays 5.30pm-6.30pm Men’s English Classes - Mondays and Wednesdays 10am-noon Women’s English Classes - Tuesdays Beginners 10am-11am Women’s English Classes and Tuesdays Intermediate 11am-noon Women’s sewing/English conversation, games and free Halal lunch Thursdays 10.30am-1pm Activities mainly run in term time. Tel: 0114 244 4832 or 07710 671175
Supporting Sheffield Children’s Hospital
Local Life
Church of Christ in Darnall had the joy and privilege of welcoming children from High Hazels Academy to learn about Easter and Lent – here’s a little of what they discovered.
What is Lent?
Christians are in a special time of year called Lent. It started with Shrove Tuesday (or Pancake Day) when we clear out some of the food that some will fast from during the next few weeks – hence cooking pancakes and having sweet toppings. In cultures around the world, Shrove Tuesday is celebrated in different ways –including carnivals. Mardi Gras is the same day and means Fat Tuesday – a day when all the fatty/sugary foods are eaten alongside the carnival with masks and colourful costumes.
The next day is Ash Wednesday, and that is the day when a time of 40 day fasting Shrove Tuesday starts for Christians. Some will go to church and during a special service, they will receive ashes on their forehead – to remind us of our mortality and to begin the 40 days with a time of reflection.
Lent lasts 40 days (not including Sundays) and is a time of fasting and preparation for the feast of Easter. Some people will fast from all food during the day, others will give up one particular food like meat or sugar. Others will use the time to give up something like watching TV or social media. The reason is to give time to focus and pray. Also during Lent, churches in Sheffield – including Darnall and Attercliffe – are walking all the streets and praying for all the roads and places in Sheffield. What is Easter?
Easter is the most important feast for Christians (alongside Christmas) as it remembers the death and rising back to life, of Jesus. His death on a cross is remembered on the Friday – Good Friday, when in Sheffield, many churches will join together to walk into the city centre and meet outside the Town Hall to pray. You may see groups of people carrying crosses into the city centre this Good Friday (18 April). You will notice churches have crosses, as a reminder of Easter. The children searched around the church, to see how many crosses they could find.
On the Sunday, Easter Sunday, we will gather together and celebrate Jesus rising again. Some churches have an early morning gathering, to watch the sun rise and to begin the day, singing and praying and may even have a bonfire or fireworks. Traditionally, it is a time for people to be baptised – when they make a commitment to their Christian faith.
Easter eggs, Easter bunnies and chicks are not religious symbols of Easter, but are used to celebrate and represent new life, which is the promise of Easter for Christians. In some countries, eggs are painted or decorated with dyes and some places hold egg rolling races – where eggs are rolled down a slope. Hot cross buns are spiced buns that are eaten at Easter and have a cross on the top – delicious with butter! So this Easter, if you see people carrying crosses on Friday, or see people up early on Easter Sunday, they are likely remembering part of the Christian story and celebrating the promises of Easter.
Good Friday in Sheffield city centre
Local Life
News from the Canal and River Trust
Thanks to the hard work of volunteers from our partner organisation, The Friends of the Blue Loop, we have made further progress with improvements to the towpath of the Sheffield and Tinsley canal. Although we are still awaiting delivery of further supplies of the crushed granite used for resurfacing, we have in the meantime extended essential preparatory work beyond the Worksop Road aqueduct and towards Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park. Our efforts continue to be greatly appreciated by towpath users, including walkers, runners and cyclists. Towpath work Our volunteer Towpath Rangers continue to litter-pick on a daily basis to help provide a safe and welcoming environment along and around our beautiful canal.
We held an Open Day at Tinsley Marina on Saturday 15 February, including free canoe sessions and wellness walks down the lock flight. Our Sport England funded ‘Tinsley Marina Canoe Hub’ will be up and running this summer to provide canoeing sessions for local community groups.
Outdoors Volunteering Sessions with Sheffield & Rotherham Wildlife Trust
Come and join an outdoors volunteering session. These ‘gentle’ sessions are suitable for all levels of confidence and experience and don’t require high levels of physical strength. The activities involved in these sessions will vary from gardening, pulling weeds, raking, cutting vegetation and sweeping. We always have a tea and coffee break with refreshments provided! You can join as many or as few sessions as you like. There is no obligation to commit to regular volunteering (but I hope you enjoy it so much that you do). This is a great opportunity to visit some beautiful sites around Sheffield and Rotherham and learn more about the landscape.
Schedule:
First Friday of the month - Victoria Hall (Stafford Road) 10am-noon (gardening)
Second Tuesday of the month - Sunnybank 10am-noon (volunteering)
Third Tuesday of the month - Crabtree Ponds 10am-noon (volunteering/ wellbeing)
Fourth Tuesday of the month - Carbrook Ravine 10am-noon (volunteering)
Gloves, safety glasses and tools will be provided and you’ll be trained in safe use. Waterproof jackets, trousers and suitable footwear can be provided, just let me know beforehand.
Volunteers can receive up to £10 reimbursement for lunch and public transport per session, please provide receipts. Car lifts can be provided to the site, ask in advance. Book in advance, online: wildsheffield.com email m.thimm@wildsheffield.com or call 07517 054447
Sheffield Young Explorers (SYE) has been actively supporting the community with initiatives designed to bring people together, strengthen cultural identity, and promote well-being.
Recent Highlights:
Weekly Coffee Mornings (funded by East LAC) – providing a warm space, hot food and a supportive environment for women. From April.
Cultural Identity Sessions – helping young children explore their heritage and strengthen their roots.
Walks in Kashmir Garden (funded by Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park) – encouraging wellbeing with weekly walks, hot food and drinks. April and May.
Upcoming Plans:
HAF Programme in April – A fun and enriching holiday programme for children in Darnall and Tinsley.
Youth Consultation & Community Research (with VAS SY-NC) – Engaging girls aged 12-18 and families to better understand their needs.
With a busy few months ahead, SYE remains committed to creating safe, welcoming spaces for the community. A huge thank you to our funders, partners and supporters for making this work possible. Stay connected for more updates!
Darnall Well Being
Did you know that Darnall Well Being has been supporting people in the local community for 25 years? Founded in 2000 by local GP Dr Jack Czauderna, this local charity was one of the
first in the country to offer a social prescribing programme. Starting from a small office in an empty shop in Darnall, we have been based at Darnall Primary Care Centre since the building opened.
What is Social Prescribing?
Social Prescribing is an approach that connects people to activities, groups, and services in their community to meet the practical, social and emotional needs that affect their health and wellbeing. Social prescribing link workers give people time, focusing on ‘what matters to me?’ to support people to take control of their health and wellbeing in ways that work for them.
What does Darnall Well Being do?
People come to us through GP referrals - or they can get in touch with us directly. We offer group activities like a walking group, chairobics, circuit training, craft - and we’ll soon have Pilates, too! We also run support groups for people living with Diabetes, Dementia, Persistent Pain or Long Covid. And we can offer individual support to people who need it, for instance with losing weight, quitting smoking, or managing a long term health condition or low mood.
Darnall Well Being’s AGM this year will take place in November and will be a big celebration of everything we have done and everyone we have supported over the past 25 years. If we have helped you or a family member in the past, please get in touch - we would love to hear your story! We also want to hear from volunteers who have been involved with Darnall Well Being at any time - how did we help you? What difference did volunteering with us make to your life? Some people will have made new friends, others will have gone into employment or gained confidence - whatever your story, we’d love to hear it!
If you would like to try any of our groups, please get in touch to book: These are our latest group sessions, and more are coming soon!
0114 249 6315
dwb.enquiries@ darnallwellbeing.org.uk
And you can stay up to date with all the latest news about our groups on our website: https://darnallwellbeing.org.uk/
Or follow us @darnallwb:
Introduction & background
The ‘Discover Darnall’ project is funded by Sheffield City Council’s Economic Recovery Fund, which aims to boost local businesses by encouraging people to shop locally. The ‘Discover Darnall’ project wants to change current perceptions about Darnall, to return community pride for residents and businesses, encouraging more people to spend more time in Darnall. The project is hosted and led by Darnall Well Being. The 3 main themes are: Urban Street Scene, Marketing & Promotion, and a Litter Campaign.
Street Scene Improvements
2 new litter bins have been installed along with 3 colourful planters on the Prince of Wales Rd/Main Rd junction Festive lights have been purchased and have already been put up for Christmas and Eid.
3 new murals are in the process of being designed and painted. The locations are: AF Dobson’s, Aries Lighting and Britannia Rd (next to Darnall Library)
Green Spaces
We are planning on installing 3 planters outside Darnall library along with a planting scheme at the new community garden space next to Darnall Fisheries on Main Rd.
Litter Campaign
We have commissioned OD Create and Graft Creative to produce a litter campaign which will include flyers and videos to encourage the community to take pride in keeping their area clean.
Marketing and Promotion
We have had lamp post banners installed to promote Darnall, along with a business directory advertising the shops on the main high street. Plans for a launch weekend to re-discover Darnall, with videos to promote the local businesses and a voucher scheme to encourage people to use their local shops.
THE GREAT DARNALL CLEAN UP
Meet us at Darnall library from 10am for our community litter pick. It’s time to get Darnall clean and tidy!
Free litter pickers
Street entertainers
New Darnall murals
SAT19 APRILth 10am-2pm
New community planting
‘Discover Darnall’ discount vouchers
Free tea and coffee
Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park
The Iftar held at Oasis Academy Don Valley was organised by Oasis Academy Don Valley staff, students and parent task force, Oasis Sheffield Hub and Sodexo. Thanks to everyone involved.
What is Iftar? Iftar is the name of the meal eaten by Muslims at sunset to break their fast during Ramadan. It is the main meal of the day for those who are fasting.
Sheffield Eagles RLFC and The Eagles Foundation hosted their second Open Iftar, following their match against Doncaster. The Iftar was an opportunity for the local community to come together in the spirit of unity and inclusivity. Around 100 members of the community attended the game before gathering to observe Maghrib prayer and break their fast at sunset. The event was made possible with the support of Sheffield TUC, DESA, Sheffield Eagles Supporters Association and Indus restaurant.
Located at Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park, Canon Medical Arena is a state-of-the-art venue that hosts a range of sports, entertainment and community events. Home to the Sheffield Sharks, Sheffield Hatters, and Sheffield Steel Netball Club, the arena is designed to bring people together through the power of sport. Seating for over 2,000 spectators for basketball and more than 3,000 for boxing, alongside versatile event spaces, it continues to be a hub for local and national events. Use the QR code to check out the exciting upcoming events and join us for unforgettable experiences!
Come along and support Barnsley Womens FC in their final home game of the season against Worcester City Women FC, at the Steel City Stadium, at Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park on Sunday 13 April, 2pm kick off. Tickets £5 adults, £2.50 students and free for children.
Gary Swift, a member of Stephen Harrison Snooker Academy, has won the Disability World Snooker Championship picking up a gold medal in Thailand. Gary is coached by Stephen Harrison who also coaches Darren Taylor who picked up a bronze medal at the Championship. Two medalists, not bad for a small academy based in the east end of Sheffield! The Snooker Academy now has over 200 people with disabilities that use its facility each and every week to practice their snooker skills and play in National competitions. Celebrating
The Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre launched a new policy report titled Delivering the Prevention Legacy for the NHS: Innovations that Help People Move at Westminster. The report sets out the urgent need to prioritise prevention in healthcare and the role of physical activity in tackling health inequalities. The launch event was opened by Sheffield MPs Clive Betts and Abtisam Mohamed, alongside Dr Simon Opher, while Darnall Well Being Chief Executive Lucy Melleney joined Baroness Sater, Richard Stubbs and the AWRC’s Prof Rob Copeland on a panel which discussed the importance of centring communities in a prevention-focused healthcare system. Read the report at:
https://www.shu.ac.uk/advanced-wellbeing-research-centre/about-awrc/prevention-legacy
The launch
Celebration Iftar at Oasis Academy Don Valley
Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park
The Olympic Legacy in Action community day returns for the fourth year this summer to Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park. This year’s event will be held on Sunday 15 June, from 11am to 4pm. The free inclusive and accessible event is for people of all ages and abilities. Come along, have fun, try a new sport or activity and boost your health and wellbeing.
Sports and activities already confirmed for the day include: archery, basketball, boxing, canoeing, capoeira, climbing, cricket, cycling, football, ice skating, netball, paddle boarding, rugby and weightlifting as well as henna art, face painting and arts and crafts. As part of the day Sheffield Children’s will also be hosting a range of activities and an interactive stall for people to learn more about the benefits of movement and healthy eating. No need to book, just turn up on the day. Ample free car parking. Many thanks to Westfield Health for sponsoring the day again this year.
The Community Stadium at Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park has been officially renamed Steel City Stadium, celebrating Sheffield’s industrial heritage while embracing its future as a global centre of excellence for innovation in sport, health and wellbeing. Opened in 2022, the stadium is a multi-purpose venue for sport and business. With its 3G pitch and 2,044-capacity grandstand, it hosts professional, community and grassroots sports teams as well as serving as a thriving hub for innovative and high-tech businesses.
Are you a community group, organisation or charity? Is your group based within a 3 mile radius of Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park? Are you delivering physical and mental wellbeing activities? Would you benefit from a grant of up to £1,000? If so the Legacy Fund could be for you. To find out more and how to apply go to: www.sycf.org.uk/grants-to-organisations/sheffield-legacy-fund/
Community funding leaving a sporting legacy in Darnall
One local group to benefit from the Legacy Fund is Darnall Education and Sports Academy (DESA). New sporting sessions are being delivered in Darnall to improve the health and wellbeing of local young people thanks to the community funding.
DESA was awarded £1,000 from Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park’s grant giving programme, the Legacy Fund, by South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation (SYCF).
DESA used the grant to deliver free football sessions at Sheffield Hallam University City Athletics Stadium on Woodbourn Road for more than 40 underprivileged children. It also funded female-only swimming sessions at Ponds Forge International Sports Centre, as well as free access to DESA’s weekly Youth Club at the Starworks. Kamran Din, DESA CEO and director, said: “The Legacy Fund grant has been pivotal to supporting us to set up these new sessions. The money has enabled us to continue our work in the community but also increase our offer enabling us to reach a wider demographic of young people.”
A DESA football session
Steel City Stadium
Local Life
Cancer charities join forces to provide more support
Two of Sheffield’s best-known cancer charities have merged to form a larger charity, with the aim of providing even stronger services to people affected by cancer across the region.
Weston Park Cancer Charity and Cavendish Cancer Care became one charity last month (March 2025). The move allows the new, larger charity to expand its practical support services, improve patients’ treatment experiences and fund even more critical cancer research projects.
The Darnall, Tinsley, Attercliffe and Handsworth area already hosts Weston Park Cancer Charity’s Big Purple Bus on a regular basis,
ensuring that people in the area have equal access to cancer support services. The local Big Purple Bus locations are:
Darnall Prince of Wales Road Car Park – every Friday 9am-12.45pm
Masjid and Islamic Cultural Centre - noon-2pm or Tinsley Meadows Primary Academy School 2.30pm-4pm – every other Friday afternoon
Meadowhall - every 1st Wednesday of the month, 9am-5pm (Orange Car Park)
Firvale Community Hub – every 1st Tuesday of the month, 2pm-5pm
If you are affected by cancer and need support, advice or would like to ask any questions feel free to visit our Big Purple Bus team at the above locations. Find out more: www.westonpark.org.uk/the-big-purple-bus
Need to Contact Your GP? Use Online Requests for Quick & Easy Help!
We want to make it easier for you to get the care you need from your GP surgery. That’s why we’re asking all our patients to use online requests whenever possible. Practices in our area are using Anima and Accurx both of which are easy-to-use online systems to: Request an appointment
Get help for health problems
Ask for prescriptions and test results
Send messages to the GP surgery
Why use Anima and Accurx? Faster service – your request goes directly to the right team, so we can help you sooner. No waiting on the phone – no need to call the surgery and wait in a queue. How to make an Online Request
1. Visit the surgery website and click on the Submit a Request link. 2. Sign up or log in. 3. Fill in a form about your health problem or request. 4. We will review your request and get back to you. If you cannot use Online Requests, don’t worry! You can still call or visit us, but we encourage everyone who can to try Online Requests first. Sevenhills Primary Care Network is a collaboration of practices working together to improve primary care in Darnall, Handsworth and Tinsley.
Talking Therapies is available for anyone feeling low, worried or stressed. We know our feelings can affect work. Did you know we also offer employment support for anyone who is waiting or having treatment with us? Our Employment Support Service provide free, confidential advice and support, helping our patients stay in work, return after a break, or find new job opportunities. They can provide short term support for: *CVs, job searching and applications *Confidence *Employment rights *Reasonable adjustments *Return to work planning *Wellness Action Plans/Workplace Health Passports *Support to speak to your employer about your health
They cannot provide support for: long-term employment support, tribunals (employment or benefit) Legal advice, completing benefit forms, workplace qualifications or training. Call 0114 226 4380.
The Big Purple Bus
Local Life
The Parks & Countryside Service are working to improve our existing parks, woodlands and green spaces across the city. We'd like to gather feedback about recent improvements that have taken place at the following sites:
High Hazels: removal of old external shelter and creation of new seating and gym area
Ellesmere Park: new playground, basketball court renewal, outdoor gym equipment, wider park infrastructure, tree planting
Ecclesfield Park: refurbished playground, tennis courts, wildflower, tree planting, wider park infrastructure
Frecheville Pond: new play equipment, scoot track, seating
Skye Edge: new paths, entrance and boundary improvements
Ponderosa: new play equipment, new paths, entrance improvements, woodland management, path lighting
Oxley Park: new playground, outdoor gym equipment, new paths, landscaping, tree planting, new all wheels park
If you have visited any of these sites please let us know what you think by scanning the QR code and if you have visited more than one site, please complete for the site most local to you or the site you visit most often.
Weekly Activities
Sunday Services: 11am–12.30pm in person or online (Facebook and YouTube) – all ages welcome
Grace Café: Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays 10am–2.30pm, serving hot refreshments, snacks, soups and sandwiches
Grace Tots Playgroup: Fridays (term time only) 9.15am–11.30am, drop-in session
Handsworth Foodbank (referrals only): Tuesdays noon-2pm; Thursdays 4-6pm Up coming events
Good Friday Service: 18 April 7pm–8pm, a night to reflect on the sacrifice of Jesus Easter Service: 20 April 11am–12.30pm in person or online (Facebook and YouTube) – all ages welcome
For more information visit gracechurchsheffield.co.uk, call 0114 293 9699; or email hello@gracechurchsheffield.co.uk Grace Church, 1 Richmond Road, Sheffield S13 8TB
CodeYourFuture offers free tech training for people facing barriers, such as low income, refugees, asylum seekers, and others who struggle to access the training they need to find jobs in tech. CodeYourFuture Introduction to Digital course is currently running. No previous experience required. It covers practical GenAI, data analysis, and building and deploying websites in the cloud. You will also receive support online and at in-person workshops in central Sheffield led by industry professionals.
The course takes 20 to 40 hours to complete and serves as a gateway to more advanced programming courses. All courses are free and financial support is available for eligible students. Learn more: https://codeyourfuture.io/ become-a-student/
Lord Mayor at High Hazels Park
Help and Support
The Community Connector has teamed up with Shelter to provide a series of articles about housing. In this edition we look at the issue of overcrowding. Legal rules around overcrowding are sometimes known as ‘statutory overcrowding’. There are three rules to see if you are overcrowded, however only one needs to apply.
(1) Sharing a room (2) Number of rooms (3) Size of rooms
Under legal rules the below count as rooms you can sleep in: bedrooms, living rooms and dining rooms, box rooms, studies or home offices.
Rooms that DO NOT count are: bathrooms and toilets, small kitchens and utility rooms and any room that is less than 4.65 square metres (50 square feet).
You might not be classed as overcrowded even if you do not have enough bedrooms.
Rule one - Sharing a room
Your home is overcrowded if two people have to sleep in the same room and they are: not a couple of a different sex
Children under the age of 10 do not count. They can share a room with anyone.
Rule two - Number of rooms
You are overcrowded if you have less rooms than you need for your family or household. First count your bedrooms, living rooms and other rooms you can sleep in. Do not include any rooms that are less than 4.65 square metres (50 square feet). Next work out how many people count as living there.
Do not include family members who are only staying temporarily. Under this rule: anyone aged 10 or over counts as one person, children aged one to nine only count as half a person and babies under one year old do not count at all
Rule three - Size of the rooms
You are overcrowded if the rooms are too small even if you have enough rooms.
Only measure bedrooms, living rooms and other rooms you could sleep in. Do not count any room that is less than 4.65 square metres (50 square feet).
If your home is overcrowded under any of these rules you could:
get priority on the council housing register ask for a transfer if you already have a housing association or council home
You could count as homeless if you are overcrowded and there are other serious problems with your home. For example, damp or dangerous conditions. Landlords and agents break the law if they allow tenancies to become overcrowded.
If your home becomes overcrowded because your child reaches the age of one or 10 you should apply to the council for a larger home.
To check if your home is overcrowded by law or to apply to the council for a larger home:
Local Life
Sheffield Mencap and Gateway run popular Gateway social clubs on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, 6.30pm to 8.30pm. The clubs are welcoming and fun, a space for adults with learning disabilities or autism to come along, meet with friends and make new ones. Our coffee bar and disco are relaxed spaces to socialise in, have a drink and a dance and play bingo! We also run baking and art activities. Our Monday and Wednesday groups are for age 30+ plus. Classes on Tuesday evenings are for people aged 18-30.
Sheffield Mencap and Gateway is at Norfolk Lodge, Park Grange Road, Sheffield S2 3WF www.sheffieldmencap.org.uk/
Developed in consultation with SENDing Voices, the guide brings together the full-time post-16 programme offer available for young people working at Level 2 and below when entering post-16 education. Designed with young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities in mind, the guide aims to help them envision their future, recognise their strengths, and explore career paths that interest them. We recognise that further work is needed to enhance the accessibility of this guide - and plans are in place to do so - we also acknowledge the urgent need for a resource like this for our young people. Scan the QR code to read the report. The guide will be updated and published annually, and will soon be available on our Local Offer, ensuring access to the most up-todate version. The post-16 landscape is constantly evolving. While we have worked closely with providers to ensure the accuracy of this guide, course information is subject to change.
Planning Your Post-16 Journey: A Guide for Young People
Local Life
As SCCCC celebrates the first birthday of their Placement Support Service (PSS), it reflects on its impact on the community. Over the past year, the service has made a significant difference in the lives of many individuals and families, providing essential support and guidance during challenging times. The service ensures a neutral, person-centred approach tailored to the individual’s circumstances, health challenges and desired outcomes. The service ranges from offering light-touch information to comprehensive support in viewing properties, completing applications (including online) and moving into a new residence.
Working closely with Health and Social Care teams, the Service empowers patients and their families with more information, choice and say in their housing options. This is crucial in facilitating smooth transitions from hospital, respite, or intermediate care to more manageable housing, ultimately improving quality of life and reducing hospital re-admissions and care visits.
The charity, offers a trustworthy and unbiased perspective. For information email: helen.richmond@scccc.co.uk or call: 0114 3086356.
Are you ready to take control of your digital future? From Wednesday 16 April, FACES (Family & Community Education Services) is hosting weekly friendly and supportive digital drop-in for adults in Darnall. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, this is your chance to become more confident and competent in the digital age. Why Attend? In today’s world, being digitally savvy is essential. From staying connected with loved ones and managing finances online, to accessing job opportunities and learning new skills, digital competence opens doors to endless possibilities. Our drop-in sessions are designed to help you: Learn at your own pace in a relaxed, no-pressure environment
Get one-to-one support with everything from using smartphones and tablets to navigating the internet and online services
Boost your confidence and gain the skills needed to thrive in the 21st century Why Does It Matter? Imagine being able to video call family across the globe, apply for jobs online, or even start your own small business from home. Digital skills aren’t just about technology - they’re about empowerment, independence and staying connected in an increasingly digital world. Join us at Darnall Library, Wednesdays, 10am to 1pm.
Free Careers Service for Adults
The Shaw Trust offers support covering: *CV development; *training opportunities; *interview preparation and performance; *skills and interests assessment; *understanding the local labour market; *job search support; *application form support
To book a one-to-one telephone appointment with professionally qualified careers advisers or to find out more about virtual workshops: call 0114 279 9760 or email adultcareersadvice@prospects.co.uk
Charity’s puppies need you!
Could you support the first steps in a dog’s journey towards becoming a lifechanging assistance dog?
The Sheffield-based Support Dogs charity is looking for volunteer puppy socialisers to provide a loving home and help the organisation to prepare its puppies over their first 14 months of life before they begin full-time training. Someone with an enclosed garden and who is at home for the majority of the day is preferrable. The charity covers all associated costs including food, equipment, bedding and medical bills and you receive one-to-one support throughout the process from its team of trainers.
Support Dogs is a national charity based in Brightside, which trains dogs to help autistic children, and adults with epilepsy or a physical ability, empowering them to live safer, more independent lives.
To find out more, please visit www.supportdogs.org.uk/puppy-socialiser
Support dog
Placement Support Service
Local Food Provision
Food Works Handsworth, Unit 12-14, Portland Business Park, 130 Richmond Park Rd, S13 8HS No membership needed. Just turn up and start shopping.
Opening Times: Sun to Tue 11:00 - 14:00, Wed to Sat 11:00 -15:00
Community Grocery The Hope Centre, Bernard Road, S2 5BQ, 0114 376 7511
Become a member of the Foundation Community Grocery for £5 a year. Shop in the store multiple times a week from just £5 each time.
Opening Times: Monday to Friday: 10:00 -15:00
Food Hub Now Church,Tannery Street, Woodhouse, S13 7LA
Become a member from £5 a year. Then you can shop once a week for just £5.
Opening Times: Tuesday & Friday 10:00 -12:00
FROZEN MEALS FOR £1:
Church of Christ in Darnall Station Rd, Darnall, S9 4JT Friday from 10:00 -13:00
Handsworth Methodist Church 289 Handsworth Rd, Handsworth, S13 9BN Friday from 11:30- 13:00 (term time)
ONLINE COOKING PROGRAMME:
Bags of Taste: https://bagsoftaste.org/our-story/what-we-do/
COST OF LIVING HELP:
Community support helpline: 0114 273 4567
https://www.sheffield.gov.uk/cost-of-living
WELCOME PLACES:
Scan the QR code for more information about opening times and other Welcome Places in the area.
LUNCHES AND MEALS:
SoupandarollatChurchofChrist: Church of Christ in Darnall, Station Rd,S94JT Friday 12:00 -13:00
WomenonlylightlunchatGaleedHouse: Galeed House, 75 Nidd Rd,Darnall,S93BB Thursday 12:00 (termtime)
CommunitymealatStAlbansChurch: St Albans HouseChristianCommunity, 20 Chapelwood Road, Darnall, S9 5AY Sunday1:00 pm
SimpleLunchatHandsworthMethodistChurch: 289 Handsworth Road, Handsworth,S139BN Friday from11:30- 13:00 (term time)
Darnall Lunch Club: Church of Christ in Darnall, Station Road, S9 4JT Tuesday from 11am–1.30pm First visit free, then £5 (inc. 2 course lunch, drinks and activities)
In a diverse city like Sheffield, ensuring access to food is a community effort. Various organisations and initiatives come together to support those in need. Whether you’re facing a crisis, trying to stretch your budget, or simply want to engage with your community, there are numerous places in Sheffield where you can find food provision and support.
ShefFood, Sheffield’s Food Partnership, have created a comprehensive map of all the different options available across the city.
it is important to look at all types of food support, which are defined and explained on our website. For example, reduced-cost shops offer food at reduced or pay-as-you-can prices, making nutritious options more affordable for everyone. They are fantastic places to shop for a lot cheaper, and the organisations often focus on reducing food waste by saving surplus food. It is great for your pocket and the environment, so it is a win-win for all. If you would like to be a part of this movement please contact info@sheffood.org.uk.