Category: Open Arms

By the Open Arms Team, Lee Lazenby and Janet Malsch

Over the two-week Easter school holidays, we ran six community events at Open Arms aimed at families. These were free to attend and most had food as well as refreshments provided. Rotherham Healthy Holidays were keen to support these family activities too and offered to part fund the sessions.
The first of our Easter events kicked off at Dalton Parish Hall with the introduction to the very talented Mr Dan who hopefully we will be seeing more of going forward at our upcoming events throughout 2024/2025.

He has such a remarkable memory, able to remember all the children’s names who took an active part on what turned out to be one of our most successful and enjoyable workshops to date, not only in our eyes but both adults and children attending the Circus Workshop.

Mr Dan completely changed his persona as soon as he put on his circus attire.
They say pictures say a thousand words and the feedback received at the event was fantastic.

By The Open Arms Team, Lee Lazenby and Janet Malsch

Martin, a visitor facing newfound challenges after the end of a relationship and finding himself homeless, sought assistance from the housing team at Riverside House. As he waited his turn, he stumbled upon the Open Arms stall.

We offered Martin a steaming cup of coffee and some biscuits. Grateful for the warmth both literal and figurative, Martin began to open up about his struggles and the hurdles he faced.

What started as a chance encounter blossomed into a heartfelt conversation lasting nearly an hour.  Martin found comfort in sharing his burdens, feeling heard and understood.

Expressing his gratitude, Martin thanked the Open Arms team for their compassion and for treating him with dignity during a vulnerable moment.  We extended the invite and said, he is always welcome for a chat here and, if he needs any assistance Citizen Advice would be available for him.