Agenda item

The Area Council Manager introduced the report, noting that performance information for the end of the quarter would be available at the next meeting of the Area Council.

Members heard how the DIAL advice service was still very heavily used and the volunteer who assisted the delivery had been commended at the Mayor’s volunteer celebration event.  It was noted that they not only assisted clients, but gained much from volunteering themselves.

With regards to the Clean, Green and Tidy team, Members noted that the commission continued to work alongside more longer established groups such as the Marketeers and Team Green Moor. In addition a relationship had been developed with Tankersley and Pilley Environmental Group, helping to engage businesses in the area.  Members also noted the work on Annat Royd Nature Reserve.   The Area Council Manager added that work was underway to promote the service with Parish Councils.

Members also noted the work of Twiggs Grounds Maintenance with Incredible Edible outside Penistone Hall and in Watermeadows Park.  In addition, the variety of events to coincide with the Great British Spring Clean was noted.

Members heard of the services agreed through the Supporting Isolated and Vulnerable Older People Grant.  Age UK would be establishing a volunteer befriending service, developing groups aimed at improving health and wellbeing, and also establishing a health and wellbeing network.  Those present heard of the positive feedback from the first network meeting. Noted was the work to try and engage isolated and vulnerable men, with a ‘Men in Sheds’ project being considered.  Also noted was the work with Penistone Grammar School to establish intergenerational projects.

The Penistone Young Voices project was making positive progress, with eight young people engaged. This not only provided them with a qualification which was recognised by universities, but also valuable work experience.

An update on the South Pennine Community Bus Service was provided. This was due to end shortly and a further application to the Working Together Fund had previously been welcomed.  Members heard of the discussions with South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive and with local sponsors, which had yet to be concluded, the outcome of which would feed into any application for funding.

RESOLVED that the report be noted.