Story: Khadija Ilyas
I am a resident in Burngreave who has seen major changes in the area, not only from an employment perspective but also environmentally. Burngreave has in the past been seen as a ‘no go area’ but recently improvements have placed it on the Sheffield map. These improvements are due in part to the hard work that has been put in place by Burngreave New Deal for Communities (BNDfC).
Eight years ago we had pot holes, crime was at a maximum, a major element of postcode prejudice existed, schools were at a low achievement level etc. Burngreave New Deal for Communities recognised the needs of the community as a whole, has worked to make a difference and is having a direct impact in the area, rather than simply talking about it, they have shown some action.
I lost my 20 year old son, Ibrahim, two years ago due to a shooting, but before the shooting I am pleased someone gave him an opportunity to better himself. When Ibrahim left school he had no significant qualifications but BNDfC gave him an opportunity to prosper and offered him an apprenticeship with set qualifications, this was something that was not available to him through mainstream routes.
My other son is now working for Kier which BNDfC arranged and my other two children have aspirations of becoming architects and designers.
I’d like to say thank you for investing in my kids and giving them and other kids in the area an opportunity to shine and having faith in them.
I hope people stop using politics to destroy all the good things that BNDfC have done.