Students land two prestigious awards... Warmth charter launching

BARNSLEY College are celebrating after two students were crowned winners in the Association of Colleges Student Awards at this year’s annual conference.

Sport student, Victoria Prendergast, grabbed the top spot for the Higher Education Student of the Year award which celebrates students who stand out from the crowd and have gone above and beyond whether in college or their local community.

A Level student, Safaa Shreef, won the Student Green Commitment award which is awarded to students who have made a significant impact on sustainability, biodiversity and green skills at a variety of levels.

Principal, Yiannis Koursis said: “I am incredibly proud of Safaa and Victoria’s achievements, as I am of each and every one of our students.

“I would like to congratulate them on their win, which is down to hard work, dedication and an unshakeable belief that they can make a difference against all odds.”

BARNSLEY Council’s affordable warmth charter will be launched next week.

The scheme aims to highlight what is on offer for residents to keep warm during the winter months, in light of rising energy costs and the cost-of-living crisis.

The Warm and Well event will take place in Barnsley Market next Monday from 8.30am to 2pm.

Representatives from Berneslai Homes will be promoting their warm and welcoming spaces, and their Tenants First Service will be offering help and support to tenants who are struggling with the rising cost of living.

Coun Robert Frost, cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, said: “In Barnsley, we want everyone to have access to the right support at the right time and place so problems can be tackled early and they can enjoy life in good physical and mental health.

“The scale of the current cost of living crisis is unprecedented.

“We know this winter will be difficult for many of our residents, and we are looking to maximise the impact of the help we can provide by giving them good information and guidance and signposting the financial support and advice available.

“We want the charter to bring organisations together to improve access to affordable warmth in people’s homes.

“I hope to see many of our partners signing up for the pledge.”