Community environmental efforts honoured

COMMUNITY groups from across Rotherham are set to be honoured for their efforts in improving their local neighbourhoods.

RotherFed’s annual Quality Awards take place next Tuesday recognising the many hours of unpaid work that members of tenants and residents associations (TARAs) have put in.

Alan Goy, member development officer for RotherFed, said: “TARAs are all working towards different goals.

“Some want to build greater community spirit and ensure no-one is left feeling isolated, while others are working to reduce anti-social behaviour.

“Other TARAs are trying to improve the health and well-being of the local community, or improve community safety. The awards are the perfect chance to recognise the fantastic work of TARAs, whatever their aims.

The awards, now in their third year, are designed to improve quality standards across Rotherham’s 32 TARAs by providing examples of excellent achievements.

Prizes will be given out in each of five categories: managing groups, financial control, involving the community, communication and equalities.

Mr Goy said: “We have moved the goal-posts this year and are no longer offering a number of Gold and Silver Awards within each category.

“Instead we have increased the prize money and are offering first and second place Gold Awards for each category.

“Our aim is to reward real excellence, dedication and professionalism. Our Gold winners this year, whose names will be revealed at the awards ceremony, have certainly risen to the challenge.”

The awards have been judged by Claire Hawley, federation advisor for Barnsley Tenants Federation and Sneh Soni, customer services and engagement manager with 2010 Rotherham.

They will hand out the awards at the ceremony, at Springwell Gardens Community Centre on Eastwood View, after RotherFed’s AGM.

Call 01709 368515 or email [email protected] to book a place.