Minutes:
John and Wendy Twigg (Twiggs) were welcomed to the meeting to talk about their programme of engagement going forward. It was reported that there has been a positive transition into the new service and the delivery programme is flexible and adaptable. It is now possible, following relaxation of Covid requirements, to invite people to come along to planned sessions, although caution will be exercised. It is hoped that by September this may become easier. Tools have been loaned out to volunteers and it is hoped that new community groups will be formed which will become self-sustaining. The Keep Barnsley Tidy group was set up with help from Twiggs and is going from strength to strength, with an army of volunteers. At Edderthorpe Lane, 3 tons of litter were picked over just one weekend, which is an indication of what can be achieved. It is about strengthening relationships between volunteers, community and the Council.
Twiggs are also involved in an apprenticeship scheme, with apprentices on rotation to ensure they get a variety of experience. Members were very impressed by the hard work and enthusiasm demonstrated by the apprentices.
Work has also been done with other groups such as the Friends of Wilthorpe park. Half term education events involving local schools also took place and will be repeated. It has been necessary to control numbers because of the pandemic but it is hoped that going forward, numbers will not be so limited. Small independent shops have also helped by donating bottles of water etc., for volunteers. It is hoped that this type of support will increase in the future, but at the moment businesses are concentrating on business recovery.
There is an accredited Employment and Volunteer service delivered by Twiggs in Darton Park, working with adults with learning disabilities. Twiggs is an accredited AQA body and certificates can be provided to individuals who can build up the number of units done into a qualification, which can help those seeking employment. The value of the accreditation for individuals cannot be underestimated.
The Great British Spring Clean was very successful, despite the restrictions, with many volunteers and children coming forward to help. There is now less litter on the streets and this type of activity frees up Twiggs' time so they are more able to deliver educational events.
A member raised concerns about the problem with litter apparently generated by students attending Barnsley College and McDonalds, particularly along Canal Street towards the Fleets. Reassurances were given that Twiggs are working with Barnsley College on a couple of projects including around the canal where the car park is.
The Social Media page is updated regularly, giving information about the work that is being done and improving visibility.
RESOLVED that
(i) John and Wendy be thanked for their attendance and contribution and for the valuable work they are doing with the community;
(ii) Detailed plans to be circulated to Members;
(iii) Members should contact John and Wendy when they become aware of areas in need of attention – email contact details will be provided.