Winnie Magagula is a tenant that lives at Shaftesbury House. Originally from Zimbabwe, she was living elsewhere in Rotherham when she was rushed into hospital and then moved to a temporary supported living flat on the Shaftsbury estate. She liked it that much she applied for a Council property and has been living in a flat there for about eighteen months.
Winnie is an active member of the Shaftesbury House Tenant and Resident Association (TARA). We spoke with her about the wonderful work the TARA does and the difference it has made to her life.
Winnie got involved with the TARA within two weeks of moving in, joining a bingo session where she was warmly welcomed. Since then, she’s become a regular at the bingo as well as party evenings, shared meals, barbecues, trips to the seaside and days out at other attractions. Beyond the social side, TARA members support each other with practical tasks such as helping assemble furniture. In Winnie’s case, Dennis, the TARA treasurer has been helping her to learn how to use her new mobility scooter (though he jokes she isn’t likely to pass her driving test any time soon!).
Winnie told us that being part of the TARA really helped with the grieving process when her mother sadly passed away. She said she feels happy, relaxed and more secure than she did when she lived elsewhere, and that she looks forward to 4pm on the days when the regular TARA get-togethers take place.
Looking to the future, a keen lover of flowers and plants, Winnie is excited because the TARA is considering what they could do to enhance the estate’s green spaces next year.
Winnie’s story highlights how small acts of connection – like joining a bingo night or sharing a meal – can grow into something much bigger. Through her involvement with the TARA, she’s found friendship, support, and a renewed sense of home.
