Community Hall Face-lift An open day celebrates the revamp of Community Hall on Wordsworth Avenue.

9

An afternoon at the Museum The young writers create ‘Vox Pops’ for Museums Sheffield’s latest exhibition.

12SOAR have worked closely with the Council over the last five years to secure £4.7m of funding to design and build a state of the art purpose built Enterprise Centre which includes office space, light industrial units and artist space as well as meeting space and conferencing facilities. We had the official launch on Friday 9th December when the building was opened by Sir Bob Kerslake former Chief Executive of Sheffield City Council and now Head of the The Civil Service. Local MP David Blunkett also spoke at the event with Council

Leader Cllr Julie Dore. We had over 100 VIPs and guests with live music, nibbles and champagne.

‘We’re really pleased with the interest we’ve had so far in the Centre’ said Centre Manager Sarah Larssen. ‘We’ve had lots of enquiries and our lettings are going really well. Businesses based in the building have told us how much they like the building and how being based with and talking to other tenants in their building has helped their business’.

Meet the tenants on page 6…

SOAR Works is a Success!£4.7m business centre gets off to a flying startThe building opened to tenants in November last year. Since then we’ve let over 21 units to a range of local businesses and are filling up fast.

In this issue…

Cooking on a BudgetEat healthily and save money at the same time!

5

5Alive5Alive is financially supported by Sheffield City Council, SOAR, Sheffield Homes, NHS Sheffield and the North East Community Assembly

Your community magazine serving North Sheffield

www.soaregen.org.uk

TAKE ME

I’M FREE!

February 2012

2 5Alive email 5alive@soaregen.org.uk

5Alive is a not-for-profit, community magazine produced by Southey and Owlerton Area Regeneration.

We offer competitive advertising rates with introductory offers for new advertisers and discounts for local businesses and new business start ups.

SOAR Works Enterprise CentreKnutton Road, Sheffield, S5 9NUTel: 0114 213 4065 Email: 5alive@soaregen.org.uk

www.soaregen.org.ukwww.facebook.com/soaregenwww.soarworks.co.uk

Dear ResidentsWe have settled in nicely in our new home at SOAR Works Enterprise Centre. We celebrated in style at the Grand Opening in December with live music, a lovely buffet and special guests.

We’re really pleased that the centre is getting so much interest from potential tenants and we’ve already let 21 units! All the tenants are gradually getting to know one another and the centre is beginning to feel alive with activity, especially since the opening of La Petite Cafe in the atrium, which encourages everyone to leave their individual offices in search of a bacon sandwich or one of their scrumptious daily specials.

On a more serious note... these are very difficult and demanding times for anyone who is looking to re enter the job market. SOAR is very busy making a difference to people lives delivering employment training and job search across the North East of the City. See Page 3 for more details.

The Learning Zone continues to deliver a range of courses and activities, see page 4 for details. If you have any ideas for new courses or activities please contact sheila on 232 6211 or email sheila.bhandal@soaregen.org.uk

The new SOAR website is now live with up to date information regarding services and activities. Take a look at www.soaregen.org.uk.

The SOAR Team x

Would you like to represent your community?SOAR has vacancies for Trustees to represent Hillsborough, Parson Cross, Firth Park and Shiregreen.

Your role will be to help SOAR deliver and develop its health, employment and training services. Your local knowledge and contacts will be invaluable in this respect. You will be able to learn new skills: finance, management, team working, decision making, etc.

There are 10 board meetings per annum that you will be expected to attend. Full training and support is provided to all Trustees, including meeting and travel expenses.

If you are interested please contact Sue Harris on 213 4065 or email sue.harris@soaregen.org.uk

La Petite Café

Now Open 9.00am—2.00pm Monday to Friday at the SOAR Works

Enterprise Centre on Knutton Road

Serving hot drinks, breakfast, sandwiches and daily specials.

POP IN AND RECEIVE A FREE CUPPA ON PRODUCTION OF THIS ADVERT

Are you over 60?Not ready for a lunch club, but

fed-up of having nowhere to go?

We would love to hear your ideas on how we could provide you with somewhere

to go and something to do…

Call us on 0114 213 4069 or call in and ask for Danny or Julie

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SOAR is delivering employment training and job search across the North East of the City for anyone who is looking to re-enter the job market. We have a team of qualified trainers and employment advisors helping people secure long term paid employment. We are delivering the following training courses:

Skills for JobsA 12 week course that prepares people with the skills they need to apply and gain employment, they also get a qualification from completing the course to put on their CV. Call 213 4065 for more information.

BTEC Award in Work SkillsWe are working closely with Sheffield College delivering a 2 week intensive Application and Interview Skills course, this is a routeway for people to access the colleges industry specific courses, delivered as a routeway into employment. Call 213 4065 for more information.

The SOAR Work ClubOpen to anyone receiving a work related benefit. We have a dedicated employment advisor supporting customers in job searches, completing application forms, writing CV’s and sending cover letters.

Monday 10-30am – 1.30pm Stocksbridge Library, Manchester Road, S36 1DH

Wednesday 9.30am – 12.30pm & 1.30pm - 4pm SOAR, 14 Knutton Road, S5 9NU

Thursday 9.30am - 12.30pm One Stop shop, 19 Bellhouse Road, Firth Park, S5 6HJ

Thursday 2pm - 4.30pm Chapeltown Library, Nether Ley Avenue, S35 1AE

For more information contact Janice at SOAR on 213 4065/ 07956 605 618 or email janice.wilson@soaregen.org.uk

Employment & Training Support at SOAR Please send in your poems and

letters for publication. Send them by email to emma.shepherd@soaregen.org.uk

I used to have a comfort zone where I knew I wouldn’t fail. The same four walls and a busy home were really more like jail.I longed so much to do the things I’d never done before, but stayed inside my comfort zone and paced the same old floor. I said it didn’t matter that I wasn’t doing much.I claimed to be so busy with things inside the zone,But deep inside I longed for something special of my own. I couldn’t let my life go by, watching others winI held my breath, and stepped outside and let the change begin.I took a step and with new strength I’d never felt before, I kissed my comfort zone goodbye and closed and locked the door. If you’re in a comfort zone, afraid to venture outRemember that all winners were once filled with doubt!A step or two and words of praise can make your dreams come true,Reach out for the future with a smile, success is there for you. Carla Lucas

Readers’ Poems

We’re adding two new dance classes run by Lois of Sharon Berry’s School of Theatre Dance.

The first is a re-working of our ‘Dance 2 B Fit’ course giving it more zing. It will take place on Wednesday’s from 10am — 11am at a cost of £3.00 per session.

The second is a ‘Beginners Adult Tap Dance’ class, which has already attracted a lot of interest. It will run Tuesday evenings from 8:15pm — 9:15pm, also at £3.00 per session.

Dance shoes will not be provided, but all you really need is a pair of flat, hard-soled shoes to get started.We provide a friendly environment for everyone with hot drinks and refreshments during most of our classes. Come to the St Thomas More Community Centre and see what we have to offer you.

Don’t forget that we also provide many office services such as faxing, photocopying and printing!

New Courses at Parson Cross Forum

4 5Alive email 5alive@soaregen.org.uk

The Learning Zone continues to be busy with many new events beginning in January. These included the Power to Change Programme and two new courses for people looking to get back into work.

Along with the regular WeightWatchers sessions every Wednesday we also welcomed a new Slimming World session, which is being held every Monday morning. The first floor Community Rooms and Classroom, which are available for hire at an hourly rate, have been booked for a number of ‘one-off’ events, including interviews for a new care home opening in the area, meetings and a monthly Labour History Group.For further details of What’s on at The Learning Zone, go to SOAR’s facebook page or pop into see us.

We’ve been open for six months and we want to know how we’re doing and what you want to see happening. Join us for tea, cake and a chat about the library and activities taking place at the Learning Zone.

Wednesday 22nd February, 10am - 12noon Everyone welcome. For more information, contact Dan at the Library on 0114 203 9533.

Regular Library Activities at The Learning Zone

Homework ZoneEvery Day 3.30—5pmOffers a safe and welcoming space to work, free printouts, friendly and helpful staff to support and suggest the best books and websites to help you with your homework, incentives for attending.

ChatterbooksFirst Monday in each month 3.30—4.30pmJoin our exclusive reading group, a perfect place to make new friends and get involved in books, games and talking about books – suitable for 8 to 12 year olds.

BabytimeFridays 10am—11amJoin us to share books, rhymes, songs and toys. For babies, toddlers and their parents and carers.

Parson Cross Book GroupSecond Friday in each month 10am—11amNew books discussion group for adults. Meet new people and get the most out of the books that you read.

Councillor SurgeryThird Saturday in each month 11am—12pmOur local City Councillors are available each month to discuss local issues and concerns.

Opening Hours

Monday 10am—6.30pmTuesday 9.30am—5.30pmWednesday CLOSED Thursday 9.30am—5.30pmFriday 9.30am—5.30pmSaturday 9.30am—1pm

320 Wordsworth Avenue, S5 8NL

Tel: 0114 203 9533Email: parsoncross.library@sheffield.gov.uk

What’s going on at the Learning Zone?

Have Your Say!

I

because...

II

because...Slimming

WorldJoin a warm and friendly group near you today...

www.slimmingworld.com0844 897 8000

MONDAYSParson CrossThe Learning Zone, Wordsworth Avenue, 9.30amTel: Christine on 0114 281 7860

FRIDAYSChapeltownThe Scout Hall, Burncross Road, 9.30am Tel: Christine on 0114 281 7860

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SOAR may be able to help, through its Bursary Grant Scheme. This funding is available to help overcome the barriers that can stop people from learning. It can be used to pay for, or contribute to the cost of:

For more information contact Emma at SOAR on 0114-232-7420 or email: emma.shepherd@soaregen.org.uk

Training Bursary Grants Available!

• Course fees • Childcare • Transport• Required materials• Specialist equipment

• Learning support• Educational visits• Placements• Accreditation

Do you want to enrol on an accredited or vocational course but need help with the fees?

Do you live or volunteer in Southey or Owlerton Area?

First Aid TrainingEmergency First Aid at Work Once a month for 12 months £50

First Aid at Work 3 day course starting on Feb 27th, May 28th, Aug 28th and Nov 26th £150

We can deliver in a venue of your choiceDelivered throughout Southey and Owlerton

For more information or to book a place please contact Lisa Constantine on 0114 213 4065 or email lisa.constantine@soaregen.org.uk

Cooking on a BudgetTuesday 21st February5 week course, 9.30am — 11.30am At Longley 4G Community Centre 41 Southey Avenue, Sheffield, S5 7NN

This course aims to enable those on a budget to eat healthily. The course includes hands on cooking and an awareness of Food Hygiene and understanding food packaging.

This is funded through Sheffield City Council and there is a charge for the course as follows:

Administration fee = £10 (payable by all) Course fees = £2 per hour Learners on JSA or ESA = Course fees remitted

Bursary funding may be available, please phone for details. For enquiries regarding course fees, bursaries or to book your place please contact Sheryl Roberts on 0114 233 2984.

Budget Recipe Penne al’arrabiataThis is my go to recipe when money is a bit tight. It’s really cheap and really tasty too! Feeds 4.

Ingredients:

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 2 medium hot chillies, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, chopped Various chopped vegetables such as courgette, mushrooms, peppers and red onion 2 tins chopped tomato 2 tbsp tomato purée 12oz penne pasta 1 ball of mozzarella, torn into small chunks

Preparation Method:

Heat the olive oil in a pan. Add the onion, chilli and garlic to the pan. Fry for about 5 mins or until onions are soft. Fry the remaining vegetables for about 5-10 minutes. Then add the chopped tomatoes and tomato puree to the pan. Simmer for at least 10 minutes, until the sauce has thickened a little. Season to taste. Meanwhile, cook the pasta for the allocated time. Serve the pasta mixed with the mozzarella chunks and the tomato sauce.

6 5Alive email 5alive@soaregen.org.uk

The Enterprise Centre is filling up and is now home to the following businesses: Aspire SheffieldAspire Sheffield is a social enterprise & registered charity whose primary objective is to provide a stable job and a supported working environment for vulnerable or marginalised people. Their Main business themes are: • Pick, pack and post • Refurbished I.T. Sales (Retail & Online) • Recycling and Reuse

Contact Dave Metcalfe on 0114 285 3788 Salvins Cleaning Management ServicesSalvins provide a complete range of cleaning services, which can be tailored to suite business needs.

These include office cleaning services, sparkle cleans, high level reach and wash window cleaning, gutter cleaning, abseiling services, commercial window cleaning, jet washing, builders cleaning, ironing services and PAT (portable appliance testing).

Contact Craig Salvin on 07946 559 794

TAG Nucleus Tag Nucleus deliver solutions to the many problems that face small and medium sized businesses in the area. Using their extensive experience, to drive growth, improve performance and substantially increase the value of individual businesses.

They also provide marketing support and can develop your brand and website and offer business support to help your business grow. To find out more contact Gary Chamberlain on 0114 213 4060

Innovest Competition

TAG Nucleus has also launched their Innovest Competition. They are looking for the next entrepreneur. All you have to do is fill in the application form online and the winner will get over £30k of support over the next year to realise their business ambition. To find out more visit www.sheffieldnorth360.com

Sheffield North 360

TAG Nucleus are also working in Partnership with SOAR to develop Sheffield North 360. An innovative and very affordable way to increase sales and prospects for all sizes of businesses.

It is a membership based organisation but it offers exceptional benefits which drive tangible sales opportunities. If you are in North Sheffield or want to do business in this area, this is a complete business marketing package in one place.

Visit www.sheffieldnorth360.com for more details.

Automotion MechanicsSince opening Auto-Motion at SOAR Works Chris has had much success working on all makes and models of vehicles and has a growing number of satisfied customers from the local and surrounding areas. Tenants of SOAR Works have also taken advantage of the convenience of having a mechanic located in the building and have had the ease of leaving their vehicles at Auto-Motion with no disturbance to their working day.

Auto-Motion offers a range of affordable services including repairs, diagnostics, arranged MOTs, services, valeting and much, more. For more information contact Chris Bell on 0753 363 9161 Solar4HomeSolar4Home provide support and advice for Energy Conservation and Efficiency including:

• Cavity/loft insulation & voltage management • Under-floor heating based on renewable fuels • Home Solar Electricity Generation System Kits • Solar Thermal Domestic Hot Water Systems • Air Source Heat Pumps

They also have a Trade-counter and showroom open to public and trade at SOAR Works. For more information contact Shahid Rehman on 0789 559 5653

Meet The Tenants SOAR Works Enterpise Centre

5Alive 7

Chapel Town GlazingChapeltown Glazing provide the following services:

• Domestic & Commercial Work • Conservatories & Porches • Fascia, Soffits, Guttering, Dry Verges • Glazing in UPVc, Timber & Aluminium • Shop Fronts • Bespoke Mirrors Fitted • Safety & Fire Glazing Specialists

They are also a council approved contractor! For more information contact Gayle Drayton on 0114 213 4090 Fun2BounceFun2bounce is a professional bouncy castle hire. They supply inflatable bouncy castles for children and larger castles for adults. They also have a Bucking Bronco or Rodeo Bull available to hire.

If you want something different why not try there Sumo Suits suitable for adults and kids, with delivery to Sheffield, Rotherham, Barnsley and surrounding areas.

For a professional, reliable and courteous service, hire a quality decorated bouncy castle from Fun2bounce Sheffield’s premier bouncy castle hire company, we are available seven days a week. All castles and slides are RPII or P.I.P.A tested. For more information contact Calum Stewart on 07884 084 980

Automative Valeting SuppliesAVS supply a range a valeting supplies to make your vehicle look brand new including:

• TFR • Aerosols • Car Polishes • Tyre Dressing • Cleaning Cloths • Chamois

For more information contact Ernest Baxby on 07834 996 545 Southey & Owlerton Area RegenerationSouthey Owlerton Area Regeneration is a community regeneration charity proving a wide range of services across north east Sheffield including, heath projects such as stop smoking, healthy eating, debt advice and counselling.

Employment Services such as CV support, job clubs and support to progress back into work and training projects. SOAR also manages The Learning Zone and our Bellhouse Road Office in Firth Park. Through their trading arm SOAR Enterprises we have developed and manage SOAR Works Enterprise Centre.

For more information about SOAR’s services or to enquire about space contact the Centres Team on 0114 213 4120 or visit www.soaregen.org.uk

Parson Cross & Foxhill Advice ServiceThey are now based at the Enterprise Centre, aswell as on Wordsworth Avenue.

They offers advice on benefits, employment, housing, consumer, tax, debt, child support and relationship breakdown.

They can offer home visits. They help with reviews, represent at tribunals and have specialist workers for benefits and debt. Yorkshire ArtspaceYAS have three units at SOAR Works for Artists.

To enquire about artist space contact Rachael Dodd at YAS on 0114 276 1769 Street ForceSheffield City Council are moving a small Street Force Team in who maintain the green spaces around Parson Cross. La Petite CaféThe café is now open in the atrium, serving tenants and the community with tea, coffee, snacks and hot meals. Please call for more information or to pre-book on 07930 073 326.

For more information about any of the businesses in the Enterprise Centre, or for a look round call in or contact the main reception on 0114 213 4120

8 5Alive email 5alive@soaregen.org.uk

I Am My Community is gaining momentum with over 400 people telling us what they love about Firth Park, Shiregreen & surrounding area. In response to your views and needs we have supported:

• Local Lunch Club around providing additional transport and activities for its members

• Shiregreen Children Centre in taking young families to Western Park museum

• SOAR’s Employment team to run a new Job Club out of One Stop Shop at Firth Park

This is only the start; we will be arranging a ‘good old knees up’ to celebrate what everyone loves about their community… likely to be in March 2012 so watch this space!

If you would like to get involved in this exciting project or try out volunteering as a Health Champion, please contact Marisa Leiva on 0114 244 0401 or pop into our One Stop Shop, 19 Bellhouse Road.

Local GPs together with doctors from Sheffield Children’s Hospital have put together a booklet for parents of under five year-olds, which will be distributed via nurseries and SureStart centres. The aim of the booklet is to provide clear advice about a variety of common conditions and illnesses.

Richard Oliver, a GP at Ecclesfield Group Practice says ‘We all know how worrying it can be when a child falls ill and this booklet aims to give parents the most appropriate information needed to deal with the illness, whether that’s treating the child at home or bringing them in to see the GP.’

The booklet is free and will be available in the next couple of months.

The CommonConditions Booklet

This page is funded by NHS Sheffield as part of the Healthy Communities Programme Health and Wellbeing

In the last issue we introduced a new GP signposting system that was being developed by SOAR in partnership with Sheffield North East Community Assembly (NECA).

The aim of the project is to improve awareness of local public health services and improve communication between GP surgeries, voluntary organisations and local residents. We are now launching the first phase of the new referral system in Shiregreen Medical Centre on Bellhouse Road and will be piloting it with several members of staff until the end of February. We will then be rolling out the final version to other surgeries in the NECA area over the next few months. Patients of Shiregreen Medical Centre who may benefit from this service will be referred to Paul Nash, Health Trainer, for advice and signposting to local services for support with employment & skills, welfare, social networks, healthy lifestyles, coping & self management, and families & parenting.

For more information about this project contact Becky Gunn or Guy Weston on 0114 2134065 or email GPsignposting@soaregen.org.uk.

SOAR are Launching the first phase of the GP Referral Scheme

Word is Getting Around

5Alive 9

Sheffield Homes

St Paul’s Church and Community Hall on Wordsworth Avenue now has new windows, electrics and flooring following the four-month refurbishment, which was made possible thanks to funding from Sheffield Homes.

To celebrate, organisers held a coffee morning at the Community Hall so visitors could see for themselves how the building has been transformed. St Paul’s Community Hall was built in 1949 and for ten years served as a

church until St Paul’s Church was built in 1959. It has always been a focal point for community activity, with around 300 people currently using it every week.

Other organisations that have made donations towards the project include Sheffield Town Trust, Church Burgesses Trust, Paul’s Praise and Wilkinsons.

“The building work was much needed,” said Sheila Beatson, Secretary of the Church Hall.

“We organised the coffee morning so people could see the new improvements and help us celebrate a building that has served its local community for many years and will hopefully continue to do so for years to come.”

Claire Lane, North Area Manager at Sheffield Homes, said: “After many years service, I hope this refresh will help breathe new life into a much-loved building.”

Open Day celebrates revamp of popular Community Hall

My name is Kath Horner and I work for NHS Sheffield. I will be working in Shiregreen and Firth Park to look at ways to better provide support, awareness, activities and listening to people who have dementia.

• There is an acute lack of awareness and understanding of dementia amongst the public.

• There are a number of different activities local to Shiregreen and Firth Park that people with dementia could be encouraged to attend with some support.

• People who are worried about their memory need support to be able to seek an early diagnosis from a GP. People who have been diagnosed with dementia could benefit from someone to accompany them to a GP or hospital appointment.

• Listening to people with dementia is important. We want to know what sort of support/ activities people would like to be involved with.

I will be around and about in Shiregreen and Firth Park from January 2012. I hope to meet as many people as possible to help me with this work. Contact me on 0114 305 1049.

Understanding Dementia

A popular community hall at Parson Cross has been given a new lease of life following a £16,382 facelift.

Mystery man shells out for old folks’ festive doAn anonymous philanthropist has donated more than £3000, so that 100 elderly people could enjoy Christmas Lunch within the stately surroundings of Tapton Masonic Hall.

The mysterious benefactor approached people including SOAR’s Advocacy Worker, Julie Bramall. She was asked to recommend suitable recipients, to avoid his kindness being used to subsidise normal day care and social support. In turn she told him about some of the vulnerable and lonely people with whom she works.

10 5Alive email 5alive@soaregen.org.uk

Regeneration Team

The North East Community Assembly have granted £8,000 for activities to be provided for young people in the Learning Zone and outside on the public square. The activities will be taking place from February until the end of March and will be provided by the library, Sheffield Futures and other agencies in the area. There will be a range of activities for all ages and interests. Go into the library (in the Learning Zone) to find out more about what is happening and when.

There are already numerous activities happening already — details in the table below. Later in the year there will a series of dance activities happening on the public square for all ages and some new public art to enjoy in and around the District Centre… more information coming soon!

For more information about the Regeneration activities taking place in your neighbourhood please visit www.sheffield.gov.uk/regeneration

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAYBadminton1.30-2.30Yewlands

Badminton 1.30-2.30Chaucer

War Hammer Games Club Library

Basketball 2-3pm St Thomas More School

Chatterbooks Book Group (8-12 yrs) First Monday of the Month - Library

Library Activities 3pm - Closing

Library Activities 3pm - Closing

Library Activities 3pm - Closing

Library Activities 3pm - Closing

Library Activities 3pm - Closing

After School Homework Support - Library

After School Homework Support - Library

After School Homework Support - Library

After School Homework Support - Library

After School Homework Support - Library

Football 3-4pmYewlands

Basketball 3-4.30pm Yewlands

Badminton & Table Tennis 5-6pm St Thomas More

SITC Chaucer 4.15-6pm

Badminton 4.30–6pmYewlands

Street Based Teams 6-9pm Learning Zone

Sheffield FuturesMeynell Youth Club 6–9pm

Sheffield FuturesMeynell Youth Club 6–9pm

Sheffield FuturesMeynell Youth Club 6–9pm (S club 5 only)

Sheffield FuturesMeynell Youth Club 6–9pm

Funding granted for activities at Chaucer District Centre

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Next Public MeetingThe next public business meeting of the North East Community Assembly will be held on Wednesday 21 March 2012 at Shirecliffe Community Centre, 349 Shirecliffe Road, S5 8XJ.

The meeting runs from 6-8pm and you are invited to share a sandwich with your local Councillors from 5.30pm.

Full minutes and the agenda for this meeting will be published at www.sheffield.gov.uk/northeast from 14 March.

Community Assemblies

Many of the parks and opens spaces across the area are receiving an environmental makeover. One of the most challenging sites that have received additional maintenance is Tongue Gutter which is a naturalistic green space which runs parallel to Deerlands Avenue.

The area is one of the most challenging spaces in the area to maintain, as over recent years the area has suffered from repetitive fly tipping which has been costly to remove.

However the site offers benefits that are not available in other green spaces in the area. Tongue Gutter offers some great routes for walkers and cyclists and forms part of the Trans Pennine trail. It also offers a wide range of bio diversity which makes for a unique ecology in the area. As the site is so vast work has

taken place on Tongue Gutter West which is a section that runs from Wordsworth Avenue to Holgate Avenue. The work has been undertaken by a partnership, with contributions from the Councils Parks team, Green Estates and the Community Assembly Neighbourhood Environmental Action Team. The work has included the thinning of the wooded areas through chain saw work, defining the paths to make the site more accessible and removing historic litter and fly tipping.

Further work will take place on this section to install new signage to improve the entrances over the coming months. If you would like further information regarding the environmental work on this site please call Dean Fearon on 273 6843.

Environmental Improvements in the Southey and Firth Park Wards

New Money Available for Community GroupsCommunity First is an £80m government-funded initiative that will run for four years, until March 2015 (over £500,000 is available in this Assembly area). The programme will help communities come together to identify their strengths and local priorities in order to plan for their future and become more resilient. It will fund both new and existing community groups. If you require more information about how your community group can apply for funding please see our website or contact us (closing date is 27th Feb 2012 for this first round).

Over the period 2011 to 2012 the assembly has paid out over £98,000 to local community groups, community festivals and for activities for young people. More detailed information is available on the website.

New Car ParkFor many years residents who live along Ecclesfield Road have had to park on this busy road. Now they have a spacious new car park which has been funded completely by the North East Community Assembly.

Contact North East Community AssemblyNorth East Community Assembly Firth Park Library 443 Firth Park Road Sheffield S5 6QQ

Email: communityassembly northeast@sheffield.gov.uk Tel: 0114 203 7562

Blog: www.sheffield.gov.uk/ northeastnews Website: www.sheffield.gov.uk/northeast

New car park, Ecclesfield Road

Tongue Gutter 2012

12 5Alive email 5alive@soaregen.org.uk

Welcome to our Young Writers Group section, working in partnership with Museums Sheffield and Parkwood Academy teachers and students. Big thanks to everyone involved…

Me and my family were invited to Rockingham Speed way by an Clio Cup driver called Darren Wilson who races for the team 20Ten Racing. When we got to Rockingham, Darren picked us up in a golf cart, which every driver gets to drive when they are picking up a guest or if they want to learn the circuit. Darren came 11th in his race but he got a trophy because he won the masters class in the championship. After he collected his trophy, we had a picture taken with him. His hospitality was excellent and it was a brilliant day out! I managed to obtain Damon Hill’s autograph, and we also saw Lewis Hamilton, who was there to support his brother Nic Hamilton in the Clio Cup.

I’m looking forward to next year’s World Series at Silverstone, hopefully Darren and his team will be there. Thank you Darren and 20Ten Racing for a brilliant day.

By Jordan Ward

Young Inspectors is organised by the Childrens Voices Project in Sheffield City Council. The aim of the project is to inspect activities and places to go for young people in Sheffield. In young inspectors we have had meetings with Max Bellwood from the project and done a day’s training at Hillsborough to find out how to inspect. We have also spent some time getting to know each another as a group and, as you can see, we have been bowling. Soon we will be going ice skating and we are all looking forward to getting started on our inspections. We think that the work we will be doing is very important and will help improve activities for all young people in the area.

By Ellie Santhouse & Chloe Mann

The Young Inspectors

A Day out atRockingham Speedway

My name is Diana Mohammed. I’m from Parkwood Academy, and in December 2011 there was an opportunity for a “Vox Pops“ project in the Millenuim Galleries organised by Lisa Parkes from Museums Sheffield. I instantly wanted to know more, therefore I went. We worked in teams of three and had to ask members of the public what their opinion was on family. There were four questions and it was very interesting to discover how people felt and thought about family. It was very enjoyable and I liked it a lot. All the recordings we made and the information we gathered will be used at an exciting new exhibition The Family in British Art which will be on display at the Millenium Gallery from February 2012.

By Diana Mohammed

Vox PopsMillenium Galleries 2011