Story: Molly Butler
Arriving to find a buzzing atmosphere at the Vestry Hall on Friday 7th March, we did a round of the stalls (and buffet), and gained insight into the wealth of educational and social activities for women in the area.
We spoke to Nicky Reed of the Workers’ Educational Association (WEA), who told us that there were new courses in public speaking and active citizenship beginning after Easter. We then spoke to Louise Hill of Burngreave Opportunities. They are based at Forum House on Spital Hill and offer free advice to people seeking work. They have a wealth of information for people actively seeking work in the area.
Aisha Jones of SAVTE (Sheffield Association for the Voluntary Teaching of English) described their six week course for people wishing to teach English on a voluntary basis. They find a suitable placement for the trained volunteers. Teaching is usually on a one-to-one basis in the student’s home. “I’m learning something new each day as a volunteer,” said Aisha. She also said that anyone interested in volunteering as a teacher should contact SAVTE. Teaching qualifications are not needed.
Finally, we spoke to Fatima Musa of the Black Women’s Health Network (BWHN), who runs a group at the Furnival on Verdon Street every Tuesday from 10 to 12 noon. All women are welcome and they can learn about healthy cooking and eating, complementary therapies and health information.
Overall, we saw a good mix of organisations and the stallholders felt it had been a successful day, with around 200 people through the door.
Contact details:
WEA – 0114 275 2623 Burngreave Opportunities – 0114 275 5106 SAVTE – 0114 241 2765 BWHN – 0114 271 6971.