All Looks Good for the YCA
by Rob Smith

Last month the Messenger reported the Yemeni Community Association’s (YCA) victory in their complaint against the Council (Council cuts complaint upheld). This month I visited their centre on Burngreave Road.

On entering, the noise of children was audible. “What had been three single rooms have now been renovated into one space and remodelled into a crèche,” explained Abdul Shaif.

The ideology of this centre was established back in 1970 by members of the Yemeni Steel Workers’ Association.

“Discontent at underhand treatment within the steel industry meant our elders established their own union. They began by paying £50 per month each and in 1972 bought this centre for £12,000.”

Corporal Saleh Alfata [7657], one of the Association’s founder members, served in the British Army from 1955–67.

“I was a steel worker then, and paid my £50. Investing and running the centre gave us a reason to be here and I’m proud of the development it’s now making.”

I then met Anesar Shabin a tutor and support worker, who teaches English and supports those looking after elderly, sick or disabled family. Intesar Hanash, a crèche assistant, told me how much she enjoys her work and gets a lot of pleasure being here.

Moving upstairs towards five newly-refurbished classrooms, one already full of Muslim women, I was introduced to Val Christopher of Sheffield College, who’s been running accredited English courses in the centre since 1999.

Sheffield College working with the YCA have had success in qualifying up to 150 adults between here and Attercliffe. “People feel more at ease and comfortable in their own environment than in the College.” suggested Val.

Ashwa Abdula, a Tutor in English, explained that they have split sessions – mornings for women and afternoons for men. Diane Hameed, acting study support coordinator added, “It has become a vital need for Muslim women, not to only learn English, but to meet and socialise with other women, who often find themselves isolated.”

Project manager Naser Yahwa, explained more about the challenge he has faced and the help they've received from BNDfC.

“New Deal are helping the study support project and we also have a bid in to further develop the YCA. We aim to professionalize this centre and acquire further skills that will help us deliver an even better service.”