Author: Laura

Energy Know How

Laura/ / Energy Know How, Good News Stories, In Your Community

By The Energy Know How Team, Sharon Smith, Lynn Clarkson and Madiya Shokat

We first met Mr O in March 2026 at the social supermarket in Rotherham, where he previously volunteered and now attends because he cannot afford enough food. 

During a general conversation about saving energy, he mentioned arrears on his British Gas account. We emailed him a link to the British Gas Energy Trust so he could apply for support. Later that day, Mr O replied asking for help to complete the application, which we agreed to provide. We then arranged a further meeting for the following week. 

Mr O is a tenant of Rotherham Council and had always had prepayment meters for his energy, he limited his consumption to what he could afford whilst maintaining a debt repayment on his electricity. Back in December 2024 his gas meter was replaced with a new meter which he assumed would offer the same prepayment facility however although it appears from the photograph, to be a prepayment meter, it is not in prepayment mode, and his in-house display confirms this.  

Mr O has attempted to get this sorted and made a few calls to British Gas. Mr O has several health issues including a disability which makes using the telephone very difficult for him and he cannot always get his message across clearly – his speech difficulties means that face to face contact is easier. He also has a hole in his heart and suffers from anxiety which is being exacerbated by his current situation. 

As a result of the meter not being set up (and still not working) in prepayment mode, Mr O now has gas arrears of over £1200.00 which he cannot afford to pay. 

He receives Universal Credit but gets no additional money for his health issues as he is considered fit enough to work. He receives less than £350 per month for his Universal Credit Allowance after rent and water – due to a court order and water arrears – are deducted from which to pay his energy bills, food and all other household expenditure. 

He has had financial difficulties before but worked hard to clear these and had only water arrears and electric until this issue with his gas.

He is receiving phone calls almost every day about his outstanding balance and this is impacting on his anxiety. He has asked the operatives at British Gas to remove the gas supply to stop the calls, this cannot be an acceptable resolution. 

We have undertaken the following actions to try and help improve Mr O’s situation: – 

  • We have applied on his behalf to British Gas energy trust for help to clear his gas arrears and are awaiting a decision on this which could take 6-8 weeks. 
  • We have also applied to Yorkshire Water Community trust fund to ask for his remaining water arrears to be cleared which would stop the deduction for water arrears and give him an extra £20.00 per month on which to live. He currently has only £30.00 per week for food and if he needs any clothing or shoes, this must also come from this food budget so he cannot afford both. 
  • We have applied to the center for sustainable energy to request some free top up vouchers that he can use on his electricity prepayment meter to alleviate a little pressure on his financial situation and am awaiting their decision. 
  • A formal complaint has been made to British Gas and we have asked them to explain why the meter was not set up in prepayment mode and why after several requests it still hasn’t been done. We have also asked them to refrain from contacting Mr O until the outcome of his British Gas Energy Trust application is known. 

He has tried to switch to an alternative provider to get a prepayment meter that works so he can ration his usage to what he can afford – this switching request has been declined, and he cannot currently afford a repayment plan. 

He is on the priority services register and has multiple health issues, and his health is deteriorating because of this situation. 

Due to our support:

  • The center for sustainable energy granted 3 x £49.00 top up vouchers to enable him top up his electricity meter and take a little pressure off his finances 
  • Yorkshire Water trust cleared his arrears of £80 allowing the deductions to stop from his universal credit for water arrears 
  • British Gas gave £200.00 as a ‘goodwill gesture’ however this was deducted from his gas arrears, and they then proceeded to send his debt to a debt collection agency causing him more stress, This was recalled after our intervention. 
  • British Gas Energy Trust paid off his arrears of £1,104.00 on 30th May 2026. 

All that is left to sort is to request (again) that Mr O’s prepayment meter be put into prepayment mode to allow him to top up his gas going forward and to prevent this situation from arising again. British Gas have been emailed this request, and we are awaiting their response. 

Open Arms

Laura/ / Good News Stories, In Your Community, Open Arms

By The Open Arms Team, Maria Jones and Lee Lazenby

A participant who was facing a challenge where they had worked numerous years was struck down with illness which caused them to be in a position where they had been unable to work for several months and would not be able to be able to return to work.  The participant had become depressed due to the illness and had remained at home not wanting to go outside but gained the courage to come to one of the Open Arms sessions. Upon attendance the participant was shy and tearful and was greeted by one of the team who made them feel comfortable who was then able to make progress and talk through their concerns.  This allowed the Open Arms team to provide clear, accurate and easy-to-understand information so that the individual was able to quickly find the answers they needed. Complex details were explained in a straightforward manner, helping them make informed decisions with confidence.  

The participant expressed relief and gratitude after receiving the guidance. They said that after having access to clear information this had reduced their stress and saved valuable time. What had initially felt overwhelming became manageable once the information was presented in an organized and an accessible way.   

Kimberworth Park TARA

Laura/ / Good News Stories, In Your Community, Tenant Involvement

By The Tenant Involvement Team, Rachel Cole, Rob Gooding and Sandra Lonnia

This month marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Kimberworth Park TARA’s community-run charity shop and café.

Thanks to a welcome boost in funding, plans are now underway to completely refresh and revitalise the centre. The first major phase of the project will see the replacement of the ageing furniture with modern, practical furnishings designed to create a more welcoming and comfortable environment for everyone who uses the facility.

The improvements are about much more than appearance. By rethinking how the space is used, the new layout will help the team make the most of the available floor space and improve the overall flow of the centre.

One of the biggest benefits will be within the charity shop. The redesigned layout will allow for additional display areas, enabling the team to showcase a wider range of donated items. This increased capacity means more opportunities for local residents to find great bargains while helping to support a worthwhile cause.

Every item sold generates valuable income that is reinvested directly back into community activities and services. The expansion of the shop will therefore play an important role in helping Kimberworth Park TARA continue to support local people and deliver positive outcomes across the community.

The team is looking forward to sharing updates as the project progresses and to welcoming visitors into the newly transformed space in the months ahead.

Energy Know How

Laura/ / Energy Know How, Good News Stories, In Your Community

By The Energy Know How Team, Sharon Smith, Lynn Clarkson and Madiya Shokat

Kenneth wanted to meet in person after the catch-up café, because he has been struggling to keep up with his electricity bills. Over the past few months, his electricity costs have increased to around £140 per month, which he finds difficult to manage alongside his other living expenses.

Kenneth explained that he often keeps the heating on for long periods because his flat feels cold. He also leaves appliances such as the TV, Wi-Fi router, and laptop on standby overnight. In addition, he frequently uses the tumble dryer rather than air drying his clothes, which increases his electricity use. Kenneth is concerned about his rising bills but is unsure what changes he can make to reduce them without affecting his comfort at home.

We reassured Kenneth that there are several ways he can reduce his electricity usage while still keeping his home comfortable. We advised him to switch appliances off at the wall instead of leaving them on standby. This includes the TV and other electronics, which can use electricity even when not in use. We suggested replacing any older light bulbs with LED bulbs, which use up to 80% less electricity and last much longer than traditional bulbs. We recommended setting the heating to come on only when needed using timers or thermostat controls. Lowering the thermostat by 1°C can help reduce energy costs. Where possible, Kenneth could use an indoor drying rack instead of the tumble dryer. This can significantly reduce electricity usage. Switching off lights when leaving a room can help reduce unnecessary electricity consumption.

We also advised Kenneth to contact his energy supplier to see if he may be eligible for; Energy supplier hardship funds, Payment plans or Energy efficiency support schemes

He felt more confident after receiving the advice. He decided to start by switching off appliances at the wall, using a clothing drying rack instead of the tumble dryer where possible, and adjusting his heating settings.

By making these small changes, Kenneth hopes to reduce his electricity usage and better manage his monthly energy bills.

Energy Know How

Laura/ / Energy Know How, Good News Stories, In Your Community

By The Energy Know How Team, Sharon Smith, Lynn Clarkson and Madiya Shokat

Lynn paid a visit to the baby and toddler group at Springwell Gardens to establish if the group lead felt that people attending the group would benefit from speaking to RotherFed’s energy team.  The facilitator of the group confirmed that it would be a good idea and was very welcoming.  The group ran for one hour and was well attended therefore Sharon who was in Springwell helped out to ensure that we spoke to everyone.  The information was well received, energy saving tips and services and the Green Doctors offer, in particular.  Over half the group felt that they would benefit from a Green Doctor visit to help them with draughty windows and doors together with condensation issues and cold rooms.  After the playgroup finished the lead asked if we would be available to speak to other play groups and gave me venue details and contact for her manager to sort out some visit days. The drop-in session demonstrated that the services we offer are valued and needed in Rotherham.

Open Arms

Laura/ / Good News Stories, In Your Community, Open Arms

By The Open Arms Team, Lee Lazenby

As it was Easter we arranged a free family event – Patsy’s Easter Fun Show at Thrybergh Parish Hall on the 8th of April 2026.   Patsy, the entertainer has delivered several successful events on behalf of RotherFed and now appears to have a following by some of the returners to the Open Arms sessions. Patsy played some games, such as pass the parcel, “go fetch me”, “wrap the bunny” and standing still and carried out some balloon modelling with the children. During her show she gave away prizes which included sweets and bags of chocolate eggs to the children who won the games and she made sure that she did not leave any child out.

RotherFed provided a chocolate egg for Patsy to give away and did a free raffle to win a cuddly toy bunny rabbit. During the event, tea and coffee was available for the adults and orange and mixed berry juice available for the children. Snacks were also provided which included some fruit: oranges, bananas, strawberries, Easter biscuits, chocolate rolls, wafer biscuits, baby-bel mini cheese and mini chocolate bars. These went down a treat with the children and gave them the energy they required to continue with the games that Patsy was keeping them entertained with.

Rotherfed staff filled a box with sweet treats which included mini eggs, milky way chocolates and Easter Haribo packets and let the children take some away with them to eat later. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed this free event.

“Really good entertainment for the kids – thoroughly enjoyable.  Nice to have drinks and snacks for kids.  Staff and Patsy were great with the kids and parents.  Thank you.”

“Excellent, really enjoyed today.  It is the first event our children have been to.  All the children were included in everything.  This will be the first of many.  Thank you.”

“First time we have attended one of these sessions.  Made to feel very welcome.  Kids loved all the interaction.  Brilliant experience for everyone.  Would definitely like to attend future sessions and will be watching out for further sessions to bring the children to.”

“Great for the Community! Love the kids get a snack”

“Very Engaging with all the children.  Fun games for all ages.”

“Always good fund and the kids have a great time.  A fabulous free sessions.  Thanks.”

“Fun and engaging.  Lots of activites for the children.  Also, refreshments offered.  Hosts welcoming and friendly.  My child really loved the entertainment – Patsy.”

Open Arms

Laura/ / Good News Stories, In Your Community, Open Arms

By The Open Arms Team, Lee Lazenby

A lady recently attended an outreach session for support with completing her Personal Independence Payment (PIP) application. Having worked for more than 20 years before leaving her role due to ill health, she explained that this was the first time in her life she had ever needed to access benefits support.

During the appointment, she spoke openly about the uncertainty she was facing regarding future employment. Although she felt she may eventually look for other work, she admitted she was unsure what direction to take next. While looking around the room, she casually mentioned that she thought she “wouldn’t mind working in a library maybe for a couple of days each week.”

At the time, the comment seemed simply part of a wider conversation about rebuilding confidence and considering future possibilities. Unfortunately, there was not an opportunity to speak with her again before she left the session.

A few days later, staff became aware that further vacancies within library settings were expected to become available locally. Remembering the earlier conversation, a decision was made to contact the lady directly to make her aware of the opportunity.

She immediately remembered the conversation and was genuinely uplifted by the news, commenting that it was “the best thing she had heard all week” and that it had really cheered her up.

As part of the discussion, she was also encouraged not to wait for the vacancies to be formally advertised, but instead to contact the employer directly to express an interest in the roles. She agreed this was a good idea and said she would contact the council in the hope of finding out further information about when the positions may become available.

Although similar vacancies had previously been filled, it was unexpected that the roles would potentially be advertised again, making the timing feel particularly fortunate.

The conversation served as a reminder of how important simple listening and follow-up support can be. Sometimes a passing comment can open the door to renewed confidence, optimism, and the possibility of a fresh start.

Open Arms

Laura/ / Good News Stories, In Your Community, Open Arms

By The Open Arms Team, Lee Lazenby

A lady recently attended Open Arms Community Hub seeking support with a Personal Independence Payment (PIP) review. She had previously been awarded the standard rate but was unsuccessful in receiving the mobility component. At the time, she chose not to pursue a mandatory reconsideration, however due to her health conditions worsening, she has now decided to reapply in the hope of securing the additional support she needs.

While waiting to arrange an appointment with Citizens Advice for assistance with completing the forms, we spent some time talking and it quickly became apparent that she had been carrying a great deal emotionally as well as physically.

She shared how difficult she had found it to come to terms with her diagnosis and how, over time, she had learned that her prognosis was worse than first anticipated. Prior to becoming unwell, she had enjoyed a successful career holding senior roles for major corporations across the world. She described herself as an independent and respected businesswoman who had spent much of her life helping others develop and succeed.

Now, however, she found herself struggling to ask for help. She spoke openly about feeling that needing support went against the values and standards she had always set for herself. Having always been self-sufficient, she admitted she felt uncomfortable relying on others or accessing financial support, something she never imagined she would have to do.

We reassured her that reaching out for support was a positive first step and acknowledged the courage it had taken to walk through the doors of Open Arms. During the conversation, a range of wellbeing and support options were discussed to help improve both her physical and emotional health.

This included signposting to chair-based exercise groups, chronic pain workshops, hydrotherapy and swimming sessions, and Tai Chi classes, all of which could be accessed through her GP and mental health connector services to support her wellbeing, fitness, balance, and coordination.

Recognising that loneliness and emotional wellbeing can become more difficult during evenings and weekends, we also provided information about Rotherham Safe Space alongside details of local women’s support groups and community coffee mornings across the borough.

All information was also sent via email so she could revisit it in her own time and at her own pace. She expressed gratitude for being listened to so attentively and for being provided with practical, compassionate guidance during what has clearly been a very challenging period in her life.

Canklow Community Tree

Laura/ / Good News Stories, In Your Community, Tenant Involvement

By The Tenant Involvement Team, Rob Gooding & Rachel Cole

After four years of supporting creativity, connection, and community spirit in Canklow, The Community Tree has officially closed its doors at Canklow Pavilion.

While the closure marks the end of an era, the group’s legacy will continue through a generous handover of crafting equipment and resources to the Crafty Talk group in Brinsworth.

The transfer ensures that the tools and materials used to inspire the creative sessions over the past four years will continue to benefit local residents, helping to spark new projects, conversations, and friendships within another grassroots community initiative.

The Community Tree became much more than a creative space during its time in Canklow, offering residents opportunities to learn new skills, build confidence, and connect with others.

While the group’s closure is undoubtedly a loss for Canklow, there is reassurance in knowing that the resources and community spirit fostered by The Community Tree will live on through Crafty Talk and the people it supports.

Digital Volunteers

Laura/ / Good News Stories, In Your Community, Tenant Involvement

By The Tenant Involvement Team, Debra Gill

Mark first contacted us in January 2026. Accompanied by a support worker, he shared that he has Asperger’s syndrome and felt understandably anxious about attending and what to expect. 

Following conversations with Mark’s employment specialist, it became clear that his long-term goal was to find a job and build his digital skills. With this in mind, Mark was matched with our newest digital volunteer, Ali, for one-to-one support. 

Ali gave consideration as to where it was most comfortable for Mark to learn in Riverside Library. Mark chose to learn based at a desktop computer and attended sessions consistently whilst been supported weekly by Ali.

Mark wanted to learn skills to help him apply for jobs online, including how to upload documents for perspective employers. And after the first two weeks he felt more confident and had surprised himself at what he had learned.  

Last week Mark couldn’t attend the usual Thursday session as he had an interview! We are keeping our fingers crossed that Mark is successful, and we hope he continues to use his newfound skills.