Category: Rotherham Ripple Effect

By The Ripple Effect Team, Sam Dixon

“WOW Rotherham celebrates women, girls, trans and non-binary communities of Rotherham.” 

Since 2022, the WOW (Women of the World) Rotherham festival has brought the community together to celebrate women, girls, trans, and non-binary people. Open to individuals from all walks of life, the festival focuses its celebrations on culture, community, and entrepreneurialism. 

The vibrant weekend featured a diverse host of activities, events, talks, debates, and live entertainment. 

To bring people together through creativity, the Rotherham Ripple Effect joined forces with the team from REMA (Rotherham Ethnic Minority Alliance) to provide interactive, accessible activities for all attendees. The collaborative space was buzzing with energy as visitors decorated cakes, crafted stick puppets, and painted suncatchers. A talented Henna artist also joined the team, sharing positive energy and good fortune through stunning, bespoke designs. 

We had a world map displayed where people could come and put a pin in the map of where they were from. Rotherham Ripple Effect was introduced lightly; one particular lady was interested in listening to what the project is about and said it sounded like it was a very good project and was needed. She was asked if she wanted to be involved at some capacity and stay in the loop about the project to which she was not overly enthusiastic about so I gave her a leaflet and told she could reach out if she had any more questions about the project.  It seems the people who show interest in the work we are doing are on a spectrum. There are people who tell us the project sounds brilliant yet still don’t really want to be involved or stay in the loop about it. They just like projects like this exist and it gives them some sort of peace. Overall, the festival was a true reflection of what Rotherham can achieve when the community pulls together. It served as a powerful reminder of how vital it is to stand together, celebrate diversity, and support women and the issues that affect them every single day. 

By The Ripple Effect Team, Sam Dixon

Mental health doesn’t exist in a vacuum; it impacts every layer of our daily lives, influencing how we think, feel, and connect with the world around us.

Mental health challenges can affect everything from physical wellness and sleep patterns to a persons’ ability to maintain employment, pursue education, and navigate daily life. The collective mental well-being of individuals in a community shapes the strength of it. When mental health needs go unmet, communities experience deeper social fragmentation, increased pressure on local healthcare and support services. 

Around the national mental health week staff and volunteers from REMA and the Rotherham Ripple Effect supported community sessions to help individuals recognise how their community can support better mental health. These sessions also show another example of the things that bring us together rather than divide us. 

Yoga session and coffee morning. – Yoga uses a combination of movement, controlled breathing and meditation that helps to promote better sleep and improve stress levels. This session concentrated on breathing and relaxation, showing participants techniques they can use in their everyday to re-focus and re-centre themselves. 

Pilates session – Pilates is a form of exercise designed to engage with and improve core muscle tone, which helps improve posture, ease back and joint pain and boost flexibility. Alongside mindful breathwork this activity will help to reduce stress. The session covered exercises that could be replicated at home with firm reminders to never over stretch yourself beyond what is comfortable, and the importance of warming up and cooling down. 

Walk with Ladies group – Ladies who attend Fridays toddler walk as well as other ladies from the community attended this walk.  It was great to see the ladies bring along their toddlers in pushchairs and take part. The walk was full of life with everyone chatting away. It was a good way to interact with women and get to know them on a better basis.  A Sudanese Lady Neelam spoke to was sharing her child’s love for biryani, a Pakistani Asian dish so we talked around this.  She shared with Neelam her story about how her husband travelled by boat to this country and how she had to wait 12 days to receive news from of his safety.  She explained how she didn’t know if he was dead or alive which is exactly the kind of heart touching stories we are looking for on Rotherham Ripple Effect project.  I told her about our project and hinted at if she wanted to be involved in any way, maybe telling her story.  She was ecstatic about wanting to share thing so I will keep that rapport with her and see how and if she can and wants to be involved and how to do this in the most comfortable way. 

Rother Valley Country Park – Two trips were lucky enough to visit the local reserve at Rother Valley. But they had very very different experiences. The first group experienced temperatures of around 13 degrees and winds, it was “freezing”, whereas the second group had a lovely sunny day and no coats were required. 

Engaging in these trips has given Neelam and Sam a chance to get to know the groups better as well as them getting to know us. This was successful with the Kashmiri women’s group as all the ladies were receptive to us and talked to us about many different things and we build rapport with multiple ladies who we hadn’t known before.    

The first trip with the ladies’ group from the Unity Centre focused on a walk round the lakes for those that were able, shared food and a Tai Chi session that helped all attendees feel relaxed. 

Unfortunately, the same level of rapport wasn’t quite possible with the Kurdish group although we got to know the leader of the group a little better which is good as she has a good connection with the group.  The group seems very closed off and enjoy staying in their own bubble and celebrating their own culture. The language barriers also make it hard to talk to many of the ladies as they know very little English. It was still worth going as lots of ladies still saw us and will hopefully recognise our face in the future and know who we are when we put more events on.  

We are learning from our experiences from this project that communities that come from historical backgrounds of prejudice and persecution have a harder time opening up to outsiders and view services with distrust. With these communities it is important that we recognise these facts, try to learn and understand the background, and spend time engaging with activity with no specific pressures.

By The Ripple Effect Team, Sam Dixon

This year, something truly special happened. As Lent and Ramadan began at the same time—both guided by the lunar calendar—we saw a unique opportunity to bring people together in a meaningful way. 

Our Eid and Easter Event, held at St James Church in East Dene, was part of the Rotherham Ripple Effect project—a partnership between REMA (Rotherham Ethnic Minority Alliance) and Rotherham Federation (RotherFed). The project was created with a simple but powerful vision: to create a ripple effect of positivity, where connection, understanding, and community spirit can spread far beyond a single event. And that’s exactly what we witnessed. 

We welcomed people from a wide range of backgrounds. Some attendees were born in England with deep-rooted family ties here, while others had heritage connected to countries such as Pakistan. We were joined by members of Kurdish, Sudanese, Pakistani, Eritrean, and British communities. This rich mix of cultures was reflected not only in the people, but also in the food we shared—from traditional dishes to familiar favourites like fish and chips. 

The event began with an introduction from the Vicar, who spoke about the meaning of Lent and Easter, offering insight into a time of reflection, sacrifice, and renewal in the Christian faith. This was followed by an introduction to Ramadan and Eid by Azizzum, CEO at REMA, who shared the significance of fasting, charity, and spiritual growth in Islam. 

To encourage meaningful interaction, we introduced discussion cards that explored similarities between Lent and Ramadan, as well as themes such as charity and giving. What followed was one of the most powerful parts of the day—open, honest conversations. People didn’t just participate; they engaged deeply, sharing perspectives, asking questions, and learning from one another. 

Some of the conversation had been recorded by staff and individuals. 

“Charity has got to start at home because if you aren’t financially secure in your own and your family how can you be expected to help others? Within Islam we follow the following order 

This translates to meaning that we ensure our own are secure, not with excess wealth but have the means to live well. Then we will support our direct neighbours and the people within our community. For example, supporting a family that we know well that are struggling. Then we will support the wider community”

“I have stopped eating fried things all together. I have also cut down on sweets, but I still enjoy a little everyday” 

“It would be hard for us to give up a lot of things. Crisps, cakes, Chocolate biscuits chocolate, Ice cream, cheese, yoghurts, fizzy drinks, fried chicken, sweets.” 

“My partner gives me motivation to keep going and don’t give up so easily” 

“No, I don’t struggle. I’m used to it. I keep my routine normal during Ramadam including my exercise sessions.” 

The feedback we received highlighted just how impactful these conversations were. One attendee shared that she hadn’t realised that in Islam there are multiple forms of charity, including both compulsory and voluntary giving. Another mentioned that she didn’t know some Christians choose to give something up for the 40 days of Lent. These moments of discovery captured exactly what the event set out to achieve—greater understanding. 

One attendee described it as “the best event I’ve ever attended,” which truly reflects the atmosphere of warmth and connection that filled the room. 

More community feedback. 

“Pleasant community Connections.” 

“Thank you for a lovely afternoon and we look forward to the next event” 

“Met lots of people, had a good chat” 

“I am going to remember the beautiful people, the warm welcome and general great ambience everyone created. I was surprised how friendly and approachable everyone was” 

“Amazing event. Everyone was so lovely and it was great to learn about everyone” 

“I was surprised by (learning) both faiths are so similar, and we question each other faiths and learned the qualitys we had similar” 

“I really enjoyed today. We sat on a mixed table and spoke about Zakaat, the Christians then asked questions. We learnt about the similarities of Lent and Ramadan. I was surprised at the turnout! A very Successful event. Thank You.” 

The one negative thing that people said was organisation around the food was lacking, not everyone felt they had the opportunity to try everything/ get a fair share. However, with the turnout being what it was, most felt that a fantastic job was done considering. 

“Nobody expects EVERYONE to turn up when you plan this type of community event!!” 

Phil, CEO of RotherFed, concluded the event, bringing the day to a thoughtful close. Attendees also completed evaluation forms, offering valuable feedback that will help shape future events. 

To end the day on a joyful note, everyone left with an Easter egg—a small gesture that symbolised celebration, generosity, and shared experience. 

The Rotherham Ripple Effect is about more than just one event. It’s about creating moments like these that inspire connection and allow positivity to spread—person to person, conversation to conversation, community to community. 

At the same time, the Rotherham Ripple Effect also recognises the importance of creating safe and respectful spaces where people can talk openly about differences. It’s not just about celebrating what we share, but also about giving people the opportunity to explore more challenging topics, express their thoughts, and better understand one another’s experiences. 

As part of this project, there are also opportunities for people to get involved in a way that suits them. Whether through volunteering or simply taking part in events, individuals can choose how much or how little they would like to contribute. Every level of involvement helps to grow the ripple and strengthen our community. 

This event was a powerful reminder that, despite our different backgrounds and beliefs, we share common values—kindness, generosity, and a desire to connect. 

And from this one gathering, the ripple has already begun. 

If you’re interested in being part of the Rotherham Ripple Effect and helping us spread positivity in the community, we’d love to hear from you—please contact Neelam (REMA) on 07907877388 or Sam (RotherFed) on 07495352311 for more information. 

By The Ripple Effect Team, Sam Dixon

The Ripple Effect was invited to speak with members of the Ladies BAG group and have a conversation about how people feel about the flags; how safe they feel being residents in Dinnington and we spoke about the divides that exist within the community itself. 

“It seemed like a big thing locally when the flags went up. What did you think?” Members of the group had an awareness of both of the “reasons” behind the flags; however, they felt that locally there was more of a negative focus on immigration as being people’s reason. Not only did flags go up in Dinnington there was a lot of vandalism, individuals painting red crosses on white mini roundabouts and on many white spaces. The general consensus was that its okay to be patriotic but there’s a right way to do it. One resident spoke about the world cup coming up and historically as a family they have always displayed the St Georges Flag. Now they are rethinking what they are going to do as they are afraid of the racist perception that may be reflected onto them.  

“I also wouldn’t give the flag to a charity shop or anything because I’m not sure how people would then see me… or how somebody could use that flag in the future” 

It was recognised that not everyone understands all of the facts and figures surrounding immigration and the impact that it has on the borough as a whole. People see and hear things from social media and by word of mouth that doesn’t always show the real picture. 

“I’ve been on the waiting list for a house for 12 years for a house around here. Whenever I bid on a property It looks like I’m at the top of the list then all of a sudden, I get pushed right down the list. I know when people get status, they are homeless and they need somewhere to live…… But it feels unfair. The system is wrong”

What is it like around here after dark? Are there any areas that you feel more comfortable in than others?” Most members of the group agreed that they don’t go out after dark 

“Its’s full of louts” 

When we discussed this further as a group and asked questions about the perceptions of the “louts” it was accepted that the problem was probably more down to the fact that young people have a lack of spaces to go. Locally there is little to no youth provision, something that is recognised across the community and partnered organisations. 

The conversation moved on to how young people develop their opinions and where their influences come from. It was discussed how much influence has over young people and how people find it easier to hide behind a screen “keyboard warriors” rather than learning how to express themselves effectively. 

The feedback from the session was really positive. The group said they found the session 

“Interesting” 

“Informative” 

“(I am) frustrated at the government and social media” 

“The session has got me wondering why people are more willing to believe the lies rather than the truth” 

“I feel better about understanding immigration” 

“It would be interesting to ask these questions.  Are you proud to be British?, Were you ever?, Are you ashamed?

The conversation carried on a little afterwards talking about “Racial Bias”, where it comes from and someone’s personal perspective/experience can affect whether their view is positive or negative. It was agreed however that with this bias there is no hate attached to it. 

The learning we’re taking away from this is a suggestion from one of the groups that a fact sheet with sources would be a useful tool for people to be able to take away after a session like this. As a project we have already discussed in what form this is going to be produced, and what sources we are going to use that will be recognised by our communities. 

We also were very free in the direction the conversation was going which went off topic too however it gave an informal approach from us which they felt comfortable with, and we enjoyed discussing other topics with them to build rapport. After discussing other topics, we would gently redirect everyone to what we were originally discussing. This approach worked well with this group as they are very talkative and enjoy discussing various things. 

We are hoping to continue having conversations with this group and will hopefully set up another session with different questions. We are hoping to continue building rapport with this group and as they get more comfortable with us, we can ask more interesting questions and see if people do have particular issues with certain aspects of migration policy. We can then answer questions from reliable sources and guide them to better understanding than they already have. 

The group were also open to attending the Eid/Easter party.

By Sam Dixon, The Ripple Effect Project

RMBC and Flux have been working together at the Edward Dunn Centre to deliver a youth club for 11- to 15-year-olds from the Maltby area. The aim of the project is to bring young people together to have fun in a safe environment, connect with others and receive a light meal.  

Around 15 young people attended the January event on a very dark and dismal evening. Chip butties were provided as well as creative and engaging activities. A competition was held to design a logo for the project, and it was won by a young resident who designed a logo that included a sloth. 

Rotherham Ripple Effect did some nail painting and engaged in conversation with some of the young people. We asked. 

It seemed like a big thing locally when the flags went up. What did you think?

What is it like around here after dark? 

Are there any areas that you feel more comfortable in than others?  The young people had quite a lot to say on all matters, it was great to see that they had enough confidence to share their opinions.

It was quite surprising to hear 3 different points of view from young people who live in the same community. This is the first time an engagement has been done through this project, and it will be interesting to examine the wider communities’ thoughts and feelings as the project progresses.