Speaking Up for Action, which supports adults with learning difficulties in Sheffield, has generated funds of £15,000. The grant has been made by the Lloyds TSB Foundation for England and Wales through its Community Priority programme.
In the past year, Speaking Up for Action has supported 35 regular members with learning difficulties and between 70 to 80 who attend the monthly Sheffield People’s Parliament. The funding will support the role of the business support officer, Sarah Bullivant. Sarah focuses much of her time mentoring SUFA’s members helping them gain new skills which will help towards future paid employment.
Carol Townsend, project co-ordinator at Speaking Up For Action said, “The role is vital to support so many individual members but also looking at ways of generating additional income to keep the support service available. It is great knowing that the role is financially covered for the next year.”
Steve Robinson from the Lloyds TSB Foundation for England and Wales said, “It was apparent when we visited that the role is very much ‘hands on’ working closely with SUFA’s members. We are delighted to help them grow this support.”
Speaking Up For Action is currently recruiting for volunteers for day to day support and for its management committee. Anyone interested, particularly those with financial, disability, teaching or mentoring experience should call Carol or Sarah on 0114 272 7723.
The Lloyds TSB Foundation for England and Wales supports charities that help disadvantaged people to play a fuller role in the community. Local or regional charities with an income of £1million or less in Yorkshire can find out more about the funding criteria and grant programmes at www.lloydstsbfoundations.org.uk.
