Agenda item

Darton East – held on 14^th July and 11^th August 2020

Darton West – held on 15^th July 2020

Old Town – held on 11^th August 2020

St Helen's – held on 20^th July 2020

The meeting received the notes from the Darton East Ward Alliance held on 14^th July and 11^th August; Darton West Ward Alliance held on 15^th July; Old Town Ward Alliance held on 11^th August; and St Helen's Ward Alliance held on 20^th July. 

Further updates included:

Darton East – The Ward Alliance has continued to meet virtually.  The Healthy Holidays Programme is in place to provide support over the school holidays.  A ‘grab bag’ offer has been put in place, publicised through social media and leafleting.  However uptake has been limited.  This has been changed to offering fruit and veg boxes, but again with a low level of uptake.  It is unclear as to why this is – it could be indicative of a low level of need or that people are too proud to accept help.  The defibrillator at Lidl Mapplewell has now been installed, is up and running and has already been used, which shows that there is a level of need for it.  

Darton West – There is a degree of frustration about the length of time taken to install a defibrillator, which was ordered some time ago but has only just arrived.  Berneslai Homes will be installing it soon.  There is a need to keep a watchful eye on the situation in the Ward as winter develops.

Old Town – It was reported that efforts are being made to get sponsors for Christmas trees so that expenditure can be redirected to other areas, given the current situation.  Members of the Ward Alliance have discussed opportunities to help community members struggling with their mental health.  Sugden Recreation Area has experienced increased usage and there are several groups of YP using it.  A number of footpaths in the area have been widened to encourage active travel.  Work at the Fleets has been delayed due to staffing over lockdown, update with be sought form Yorkshire Wildlife Trust. 

St Helen's – A number of healthy activities have taken place.  Free school meals vouchers have been matched by the Community Shop.  Discussions have taken place with various organisations and bodies about Christmas, as it may not be possible to have the usual community events.  New ways of reaching children in the ward will have to be developed.  Litter picks with TWIGGS have taken place, within Covid Guidelines.  Hanging baskets were placed just in time and have uplifted the ward during this challenging time.

Members were also reminded of the requirement for Ward Alliance minutes to the received by the Area Council.

RESOLVED that the notes of the respective Ward Alliances be received.