Help a child with their reading

SUPPORTING WITH ONE-HOUR OF READING A WEEK, YOU CAN MAKE A HUGE DIFFERENCE TO A CHILD. VOLUNTEERING IN SHEFFIELD, PARTICULARLY IN S5, S13, S9, AND S36, IS GREATLY NEEDED.

Volunteering as a reading mentor is an immensely rewarding endeavour.

Sheffield City Council’s ESCAL Volunteering programme, part of the Virtual School for Children Looked After, is actively seeking Reading Volunteers to provide one-on-one support in literacy. By joining this initiative, you can have a significant impact on the confidence and selfesteem of children in care.

Currently, we have 76 amazing volunteers who are making a positive difference to the lives of over 260 children and young people across the city. Our children have shared some lovely feedback about their time with Reading Volunteers, with comments such as “you make it seem easier” and “I can understand the story better”, sentiments commonly echoed by the students.

As a Reading Volunteer, you not only contribute to improving children’s reading skills but also gain valuable skills yourself, such as teaching, communication, and active listening. We still require additional support from volunteers to assist several schools, particularly in specific areas of Sheffield such as S5, S13, S9, and S36. Whether you are interested in becoming a Reading Volunteer or know friends or family who would like to offer their support, we would be thrilled to hear from you! Teaching experience is not a prerequisite as we provide free training, resources and guidance to all volunteers. By dedicating just one hour of your time each week to reading with a child, you can make an enormous difference in the lives of struggling readers in Sheffield. You can visit www.sheffield.gov.uk/readingvolunteers

Bear in mind: If you want to become a Reading Volunteer, you should consider some points:

• You must be over 18 years old to volunteer – however, there is no maximum age!

• You must be able to speak and read English to support a child in school

• You must commit to at least an hour of your time a week to a local school

• We ask that you support a school for a minimum of ten weeks for the commitment to children you are supporting

• All volunteers will require a specific DBS check – this is free of charge and will be carried out during a central, face to face training session

To register your interest or find out more, please contact: 0114 205 2219, ESCALVolunteering@sheffield.gov.uk or visit www.sheffield.gov.uk/ readingvolunteers

RESIDENTS AT FIRTH HOMES ARE ONE BIG FAMILY.

The Sheffield Firth

Almshouses (Firth Homes) were founded in 1869 by industrialist and philanthropist Mark Firth. The original buildings were replaced in 1969 with the more modern homes that remain today. Some of the original features have been preserved however, such as the stained glass window which has recently been restored.

Firth Homes is a warm, welcoming and friendly community based in the leafy suburb of Nethergreen. The homes are on a bus route and within walking distance of plenty of shops, cafes, parks and other local amenities. Residents say:

“Firth Homes is a family, where everyone looks out for one another” and “the homes are lovely”.

During the pandemic, and when restrictions would allow, the residents enjoyed meeting in the landscaped gardens for a coffee and a catch up. The residents are glad to be able to meet up now in the community hall for regular coffee mornings, cards, bingo and art club.

Residents have recently held an arts and crafts fair for the local community and showcased some very impressive work. This year the residents have also enjoyed a party for the coronation of King Charles and a trip to Cleethorpes including a paddle in the sea.

Visit www.thesheffieldfirthalmshousesfirthhomes.co.uk to find out more.