SUMMARY

YAFA is a community based charity that supports children, young people, women and families in Upperthorpe, Netherthorpe and Langsett and surrounding areas. We provide a wide range of services focused on community development, education, wellbeing, youth engagement and practical support. Our aim is to create safe, welcoming and inclusive spaces where people can access help, build confidence, develop new skills and feel connected to their community.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Community development is at the heart of YAFA's work. We listen to the local community and use that understanding to create projects and activities that respond directly to local needs and priorities. This approach has enabled us to develop a wide range of services and opportunities that bring people together, reduce isolation and support the wellbeing of children, young people, women and families.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

YAFA delivers a strong programme of educational support for both adults and young people. We work in partnership with Sheffield City Council's Family, Adult and Community Education Service (FACES) to help deliver ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) classes for women, supporting local women to improve their language skills, confidence and access to opportunities. In addition, YAFA runs a community language school, established in response to local demand, with over 100 pupils between the ages of 5 to 13 years old.

We also provide focused academic support for children and young people through GCSE English Language, GCSE Maths and SATs booster sessions.

These programmes are designed to help students build confidence, strengthen subject knowledge, improve exam technique and achieve better educational outcomes. Our GCSE support covers both English and Maths, including Foundation and Higher pathways, while SATs support is tailored to Year 6 pupils preparing for their exams.

YOUTH ACTIVITIES

YAFA offers a range of youth activities that give young people a safe and positive space to take part in enjoyable, structured activities and build strong social connections. Our youth club supports boys aged 13 to 17 through activities such as sports, games and group engagement in a fun and welcoming setting. We also run Her Space, a girls' club for young girls aged 10 to 17, providing a safe environment where they can talk, take part in creative activities, build friendships and strengthen their confidence. These clubs help young people feel supported, valued and connected to their community.

WELLBEING AND SOCIAL SUPPORT

YAFA also creates spaces that support emotional wellbeing, peer support and community connection. We host women's groups, community meals, Tea with Auntie, and other community-based gatherings that give people the chance to meet others, share experiences and reduce isolation. We also support a men's mental health group, providing a dedicated space where men can come together in a supportive environment. These activities are an important part of building stronger, healthier communities and ensuring that people have access to informal support networks.

SKILLS DEVELOPMENT

In addition to education and wellbeing, YAFA provides opportunities for people to learn practical skills that build confidence and independence. Our sewing classes are a good example of this, helping participants learn how to sew, alter and mend clothes while growing in confidence using sewing machines. These sessions encourage creativity, self-development and the sharing of skills within the community.

ADVICE AND GUIDANCE

YAFA also offers direct advice and practical support to local residents. Through our advice service, people can access help with general advice, form filling, housing and benefits guidance, signposting to relevant services, and wider family or community support. This service helps people address everyday challenges in a friendly, trusted and accessible environment.

OUR OVERALL PURPOSE

Overall, YAFA exists to empower local people and strengthen the community. We do this by providing education, youth provision, wellbeing support, women's activities, practical advice and opportunities for community-led development. Everything we do is rooted in creating opportunities, building confidence, reducing isolation and helping people of all ages work towards brighter futures.