Darnall Ward Labour Councillors

24/10/2025

Today we celebrated the end of a fantastic term full of achievements!

Women from across Darnall and Tinsley have completed Computer and Digital IT courses, and many have gone on to enrol in Health and Social Care and English courses. They’ve also been busy creating wildlife havens in the local area and building strong networks and friendships to empower each other.

I am really pleased to have worked with the Council’s FACES (Family and Adult Community Education) team to bring adult education opportunities right into the heart of Darnall ward.

23/10/2025

It was really good to meet Brian at Living Waters Christian Fellowship yesterday and hear more about the new Job Club in Darnall.

The Job Club is free and open to anyone unemployed or looking for a new role. It offers:
• Small group courses and one-to-one coaching
• Help with CVs, online applications, and computer skills
• Confidence-building in a friendly environment
• Free breakfast, tea, and coffee

Details:
• Where: LWCF, 81 Main Road, Darnall
• When: Every Tuesday, 10am

Contact: Brian Coleman – [email protected] 07909 598 426

22/10/2025

🚦 Community Update: Road Safety - Darnall

We had a really positive meeting last night to discuss local concerns about road safety on Darnall Road.

A huge thank you to Ali Shah, Syd Khan and local residents for their continued efforts in working closely with the council to ensure safety measures are introduced.

What’s Happening Next

• Traffic Data Review:
The council is currently analysing local traffic data to decide which safety measures will be introduced.

• Community Speed Watch:
Local residents will soon take part in Speed Watch training — helping to collect valuable data and act as a visible deterrent to speeding.

• New Safety Equipment:
Cllr Naz and Cllr Lea have agreed to fund a Vehicle Activated Sign (VAS) worth £10,000. This will be rotated between Staniforth Road and Darnall Road to alert drivers and encourage safer speeds.

• Next Steps:
Another meeting will take place in December to review progress and discuss longer-term safety solutions for the area.

Thank you to all residents and partners who continue to work together to improve our community of Darnall.

24/06/2025

My stance on the Welfare Reform Bill:

I have long supported the principle that our welfare system should evolve to better support people into work, where possible, and to ensure it remains fair and sustainable for the future.

However, I do not believe that the current proposals — particularly those affecting Personal Independence Payment (PIP) — strike the right balance. PIP is not only an in-work benefit; it also supports many people who are currently out of work due to long-term health conditions or disabilities. It enables individuals to live independently and, where possible, move toward employment. Reforming it without a full and transparent consultation risks serious unintended consequences for those who rely on it most.

That is why I have added my name to the amendment calling for the Government to pause this legislation until a proper consultation has taken place. I said at the time of publication that I could only support the Bill if it was shaped by the voices of disabled people, carers, and the organisations that represent them. That has not happened — and without that process, I cannot support the legislation in its current form.

This is not a decision I take lightly. I recognise the Government’s concern about the number of people currently out of work — particularly the fact that over one million young people are not in education, employment, or training. That is a serious issue, with long-term consequences for their health, wellbeing, and future prospects, as well as for our economy and public services. But we must not address one challenge by creating another.

Welfare reform must be done with disabled people, not to them. I urge the Government to reconsider its approach and commit to a full consultation. We can and should reform the welfare system — but we must do so in a way that protects the dignity, independence, and livelihoods of those who depend on it.

https://commonsbusiness.parliament.uk/Document/95731/Html?subType=Standard

— Clive Betts MP
Member of Parliament for Sheffield South East

18/03/2025

07/03/2025

It was great to meet the women from Darnall Unity Hub today and hear their amazing ideas for transforming their garden into a wildlife-friendly space! A fantastic example of partnership working with Sheffield & Rotherham Wildlife Trust and the local community—coming together to support nature and create something special.

Watch this space! 🌿🐦🐝

Cllr Zahira Naz

26/02/2025

East Sheffield Area Committee Meeting Update – Housing & Anti-Social Behaviour

Today’s meeting addressed key issues such as housing and anti-social behaviour, with council officers on hand to assist. These meetings provide a platform for residents to voice concerns and shape local services.

Join us at the next session to make your voice heard!

Cllr Zahira Naz and Cllr Mary Lea

25/02/2025

Had a wonderful time with Cllr Mary Lea at the Somali Development Group, where we were invited to share food and hear from the amazing women who have been learning new skills and gaining new experiences.

It was inspiring to hear how these opportunities are building confidence, strengthening the community, and opening doors for the future. We had great conversations about their aspirations and how we can continue to support learning, development, and community cohesion in the Darnall ward.

A huge thank you to everyone who welcomed us so warmly—we’re excited to see what’s next for this fantastic group!

Cllr Zahira Naz

21/02/2025

I visited Tinsley forum to see the Knife Bin with local women to discuss the rising concerns around knife crime. The conversation was divided—some believe these bins help, while others feel they don’t address the root causes. But one thing was clear: everyone is worried, and everyone wants real solutions.

Knife crime doesn’t happen in isolation. Poverty, inequality, and lack of opportunities all fuel violent crime. If we truly want safer communities, we need to invest in youth services, education, and support for struggling families—not just reactionary measures.

As a local councillor, I will continue to raise these concerns and push for real action to tackle the root causes of crime.

Cllr Zahira Naz

01/02/2025

Join the campaign to get a banking hub in south east Sheffield.

Woodhouse Residents Banking Hub Survey We were recently informed that the Lloyds branch in Woodhouse was closing down. Clive Betts MP, Councillor Mick Rooney and Councillor Alison Norris have collectively written to the Lloyds CEO to urgently ask for a meeting and a review of this decision that will...

28/01/2025

Earlier this month I visited Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice.

They do incredible work for those whose lives are cut short, as well as offer vital breaks for families and children who have serious disabilities.

It is a wonderful organisation that deserves nothing but our full support.