News: Diamond partnerships extend into new season at Rotherham United

Rotherham United's innovative commercial deal which sees businesses come together as "Diamond Partners" is continuing into the new football season.

Last year the deal enabled the Millers to have the Rotherham Hospice logo proudly emblazoned across the chest. For the the 2024/25 season, the kits will feature another Rotherham charity, Bluebell Wood Children's Hospice.

AESSEAL, Hughie Construction, IPM Group, Mears Group and Steelphalt formed the alliance to become this season’s Diamond Partners and, in turn, provide Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice with the opportunity to be front and centre on the first team kits throughout the upcoming campaign.

Based at North Anston, Bluebell Wood provides care and support to families who have a child who has a life limiting condition and is not expected to live into adulthood.

Steve Coakley, Commercial Director at Rotherham United, said: “We are immensely proud to say that we will proudly carry the Bluebell Wood logo and the message that it holds around the country with us as our main front of shirt sponsor this season, which has once again been made possible thanks to the kindness of five Diamond Partners.

“On behalf of everyone at Rotherham United I want to reiterate how truly grateful we are to AESSEAL, Hughie Construction, IPM Group, Mears Group and Steelphalt for once again being so charitable with their own resources to facilitate this amazing Diamond Partnership. Their kindness – particularly in the current financial climate – should not be underplayed and having seen the impact of this arrangement for the Rotherham Hospice last season, we know how much this will mean to everyone associated with Bluebell Wood.

Advertisement
“To elaborate on that point, this partnership represents much more than a shirt sponsorship agreement. Not only does it align with all of our values and beliefs as a club that we recognise the role we have to play at the heart of the community, it will also significantly increase the public profile of Bluebell Wood and present them with a number of fundraising opportunities that might not previously have been possible.

“It goes without saying that we will look to maximise that exposure and use our own status both as a club and in our community work to ensure that our second year of having a group of Diamond Partners on-board is as successful as the first.”

Heidi Hawkins, Bluebell Wood's Chief Executive, added: “We are absolutely thrilled to be Rotherham United’s new Diamond Partner for 2024/2025. The new shirts look amazing and having our logo proudly on the front means such a lot to everyone at Bluebell Wood as well as all the families we support in Rotherham and beyond."

Rotherham manufacturing success story, AESSEAL will gift Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice all the hospitality and other benefits that are part of the sponsorship package.

Josie Lewis, IT and Project Manager of AESSEAL plc, and lifetime supporter of Rotherham United, said: "Rotherham United and its associated charitable arm, the Rotherham United Community Trust, are a great community asset it is for Rotherham, and AESSEAL is proud to associate our brand with them.”

Bluebell Wood website
RUFC website
AESSEAL website

Images: RUFC

Read more...

News: Kit deal supports charity goals for club and business community

In a first for the club, Rotherham United has signed an innovative commercial deal which has seen six businesses come together as "Diamond Partners."

It means that for the 2023/24 Championship season, the Millers will have the Rotherham Hospice logo proudly emblazoned across the chest.

The club hopes that by establishing this Diamond Partnership of businesses that the profile and subsequent fundraising for the Rotherham Hospice not only continues, but accelerates.

The partners are AESSEAL, Equisolve Consulting Ltd, Hughie Construction Ltd, IPM Group, Mears, and Steelphalt.

Rotherham United Commercial Director Steve Coakley said: “For the forthcoming 2023/24 Sky Bet Championship campaign we were determined to look at doing something different, innovative and community-based because we felt that best represented what Rotherham United is all about.

“This unique partnership will be the first of it’s kind in Rotherham United history. It has allowed us as a club to provide a platform for an allegiance of business associates to unite in the name of charity to become our first ever Diamond Partners."

“We are simply using the vehicle of our status as a Sky Bet Championship club alongside our responsibility as a community-driven organisation at the heart of the town, to facilitate this opportunity for six businesses who absolutely mirror those beliefs.

“As a club we have always tried to shout from the rooftops in local circles about the amazing service that the Rotherham Hospice provides to our local community and beyond, but thanks to our new Diamond Partners, we will now be taking the hospice name and branding around the country with us and broadcasting it to the global audience that the second tier of English football attracts.

“The key goals and objectives for our front of shirt sponsorship for 2023/24 were to be innovative and different whilst steering clear of sectors that would cause any element of controversy or division amongst supporters and we truly believe this unique collaboration is something which everyone will be right behind.

“However, this could only be achieved by getting the type of buy-in from like-minded organisations who were selflessly willing to forego having their own branding displayed and we will forever be thankful that these six pioneering businesses have enabled this to happen.

“The six businesses have been aptly named our ‘Diamond Partners’ as we feel that is reflective of the role they have in our community. The Hospice is one of the jewels in the crown of our town and we are proud beyond words to have agreed this historic business deal in their name.”

Advertisement
The only adult hospice in Rotherham for the people of Rotherham, Rotherham Hospice is an independent charity and requires a staggering £3m per year to allow them to continue to carry out this invaluable service.

Rotherham Hospice Director of Income and Communications Stephen King said: "Everyone connected to Rotherham Hospice would like to thank Rotherham United for their unbelievable support. This partnership will have a huge impact on our patients, families, volunteers, and staff. This partnership will bring the people of Rotherham together in support of their hospice.

"What makes this even more special is the support of the local businesses who have made this possible. Their generosity means that it will be our logo sitting proudly on that famous red and white shirt. The exposure Rotherham Hospice will receive next season is incredible."

Rotherham United Chairman Tony Stewart added: "Our support for the Rotherham Hospice is something that we have been incredibly proud of throughout the club's history and we have taken great pride in the way that we have looked to innovate in the ways in which we have backed their fundraising efforts.

"Our Honorary Life President John Breckin has been the driving force behind ideas such as the 'Give the Hospice a Hand' fixture a couple of seasons ago and has done brilliantly to establish a summer charity cricket game each year involving the first team, to name just two events we have been extremely proud to support.

"As a club, we are constantly looking to evolve, whether that be on the pitch, off it, or in the community and this concept to bring some of our entrusted club sponsors together as 'Diamond Partners' ranks right up their with our most satisfying achievements to date in the charity sector.

"On behalf of everyone at Rotherham United I would like to wholeheartedly thank the six businesses that have made this unique proposal a reality.

"I truly believe that the rest of the football world will sit up and take note of this commercial innovation and hopefully this may prompt more clubs to follow suit in pledging their support to charity in a similar manner."

RUFC website
Rotherham Hospice website

Images: RUFC

Read more...

News: Smartphone initiative for Rotherham’s asylum seekers

Mears Foundation is partnering with Rotherham-based engineering company, AESSEAL to help asylum seekers temporarily housed in the town to communicate with their families and support groups.

Together, the two organisations are funding the purchase of more than 800 basic smartphones in an initiative that recognises the social and emotional needs for connectivity of a group that has experienced extreme hardship during their journey to the UK.

At any one time around 600 people, including individuals and family groups, are in temporary accommodation in Rotherham while their asylum claims are processed. The asylum seekers come from various part of the world, including from conflict regions such as Afghanistan and Syria.

For over ten years, Mears has been the main contractor delivering services in the north of the borough as part of a multimillion pound repairs and maintenance service contract on behalf of Rotherham Council.

The Mears Foundation is the independent, charitable, grant-making arm of Mears Group. Mears Group provides accommodation and support for asylum seekers on behalf of the UK Home Office in Rotherham and across Yorkshire.

Advertisement
Heather Tyrer, General Manager of the Mears Foundation said: "We are proud to be partnering with AESSEAL to provide important support for asylum seekers to communicate and get online. When people arrive in the UK, often fleeing persecution, providing a link for them to be able to speak to relatives, find out about their new local area and to make new connections, is literally a lifeline."

AESSEAL Managing Director, Chris Rea added: “The company heard about the project and wanted to help. These are displaced people and families with the same needs for emotional support and connectivity that we all have. It’s a joined-up world and smartphones give them access to information and important family and social support”, he added.

"We also wanted to ensure that, whatever the outcome of their case to remain in the UK, that they retained positive memories of Rotherham and its people."

Mears website
AESSEAL website

Images: Mears

Read more...

News: Which Rotherham companies are the best to work for?

A number of Rotherham-based companies have been named in the UK’s "Best Companies to Work For" in 2022.

The recognised scheme, which has previously been associated with The Sunday Times, has new, quarterly League Tables that are generated when organisations survey their employees – and it's their responses, based on Best Companies' unique 8 Factor methodology – that determines how engaged their people are. This produces an index score used to rank positions on the League Tables.

LifeSkills Solutions was the highest ranked local firm. The head office is based in Rotherham with other sites in Basildon, Lowestoft, Leeds and a fifth centre opening in Sheffield this August. The company deliver Study Programme and Traineeships for over 1,000 learners per year across a wide range of vocations. The awards made it a double celebration as LifeSkills celebrated their 20th anniversary last month and have worked with over 22,000 learners since it’s formation.

It is the ninth time the company has made the list.

LifeSkills was recognised as the 26th best small company to work for in the UK, achieved a 5th place finish in the education sector category and was voted as the 10th best company to work for in Yorkshire and Humberside. A total 94% of staff agreed that the organisation is keen to help people from disadvantaged backgrounds and 90% of staff stated their manager cares for them.

Spencer Fearn, owner of LifeSkills Solutions, said: "We are absolutely delighted to be recognised in such a coveted awards yet again. As well as the national, local and sector placings it was pleasing to see us noted as the highest ranked education provider in the best small companies’ awards and recognised as an outstanding company to work for. We have a great team of people at LifeSkills who are passionate about creating brighter futures for our learners."

Advertisement
The Nicholas Associates Group, which has its headquarters in Rotherham, entered the Yorkshire and Humberside list at 24. It was 43rd in the National Best Mid-Sized Companies to work for in the UK and 26th in its sector - recruitment.

Bruce Allen, Finance Director - Nicholas Associates Group, said: "Throughout the pandemic, in the most difficult of times, I was immensely proud of how we banded together and actively demonstrated incredible support, dedication and solidarity for each other and our business. Our survival and success is down to the forbearance & dedication of every single member of our team."

KP Snacks is at 41 in Yorkshire and Humberside. One of the largest snack makers in the UK is headquatered in Slough but has a significant manufacturing site at Hellaby in Rotherham. Nationally, KP ranked 19th in the Best Big Companies to work for in the UK and 2nd in the food and drink sector.

Mears Group, which has its HQ in Gloucester but a significant operation in Rotherham due to its housing contract with the council was ranked at 53 in Yorkshire, 14th nationally in the Best Big Companies to work for in the UK and 7th in the construction and engineering sector.

LifeSkills website
Nicholas Associates website
KP Snacks website
Mears website


Images: LifeSkills

Read more...

News: Mears on its social value in Rotherham

Mears, the UK's market-leading housing and care company, is leading by example when it comes to social value in Rotherham.

For over ten years, Mears has been the main contractor delivering services in the north of the borough as part of a multimillion pound repairs and maintenance service contract on behalf of Rotherham Council.

The authority and wider partners have signed up to a social value charter for Rotherham which has the aims of increasing local spend, SME and voluntary sector spend, the number of apprenticeships in the borough and the number of employers paying the living wage.

Andrew Chambers, general manager at Mears, explained that his company "doesn’t believe in lip service and leads by example."

Chambers said: "We work in close partnership with our client and have several partnership projects that have a broad positive impact on many lives both directly and indirectly. This could range from aesthetically improving a communal space to giving isolated older people a Christmas lunch.

"We also do a lot of work that focuses on training and helping people find employment through the Local Employment Activity Forum (LEAF) or helping guide children on to the right career path.

"We have taken an active part in developing the Women in Trades toolkits for schools and in shaping the future for women into construction.

"It makes us proud to know that we will have helped many people get on the employment ladder or given them direction in their careers."

Advertisement
During the Covid pandemic, Mears was able to host the LEAF event virtually as well as conduct several online work experience training sessions for the young people in Rotherham.

Mears opened a national training academy in Rotherham in 2016. 49 young people have taken up training opportunities since 2010 with a completion success rate of 81% - 40 young people with a recognised qualification and work experience.

Mears also offers two volunteering days a year to staff who can also get support from the Mears Foundation, the independent charitable arm of the group.

Chambers added: "Everyone of us in the branch believes that giving back to our communities and making a positive difference is the right thing to do.

“I am very proud of my local community and its people and will always take the opportunity to promote pride in Rotherham wherever and whenever I can.

“For us in Rotherham, we will continue our work in the community and help promote a borough where people can grow, flourish and prosper.”

Mears website

Images: Mears

Read more...

News: ENGIE replaces Fortem on £60m Rotherham contract

Energy and services specialist ENGIE has been appointed to provide a £60m repairs and maintenance service on behalf of Rotherham Council.

The contract, which begins on 1st April 2020, will see ENGIE provide responsive repairs, adaptations, void works and estate management services to 9,800 homes across the south of the borough. In addition, ENGIE will also provide gas, mechanical and electrical maintenance work and a number of capital improvement schemes across the wider Rotherham area.

Rothbiz reported in February that the contracts were up for renewal.

Mears will continue as the main contractor delivering services in the north of the borough, as it has for the past nine and half years. ENGIE has been appointed as the new main contractor in the south of the borough, which is currently held by Fortem. Both contractors will provide a repairs service, make empty properties ready to be re-let, a caretaking service and making adaptations to homes when required.

The contract will begin with an initial duration of five years, which would be extended to a further five years dependent on high performance.

It is expected that the work programme will create more than 100 apprenticeships for local people, over the ten-year period, as well as 40 new jobs and more than 90 work experience placements for young people. ENGIE has also committed to a number of engagement opportunities with local schools, colleges and universities.

Advertisement

Martin Smithurst, Divisional Chief Operating Officer at ENGIE UK, said: "We are very pleased to have been chosen to form this exciting partnership with Rotherham Council. We have a proven track record of providing an excellent repairs and maintenance service, as well as helping our partners address their housing, social value and climate emergency-related priorities, and I'm sure that this programme will be no different.

"ENGIE has a long history of working within the borough, so it's great that we can continue to do that through this partnership. We look forward to working with our partners for many more years to come to create, improve and maintain homes and places across Rotherham."

Councillor Dominic Beck, Cabinet Member for Housing at Rotherham Council, added: "The repairs and maintenance delivery providers we appoint are extremely important and I am confident we have recruited an excellent partner in ENGIE with a strong track record.

"We are delighted to award one of the Council's housing repairs and maintenance contracts to a company that has shown they have the highest standards of service delivery which in turn will mean our tenants enjoy high quality accommodation. Another key factor in the tender process was that the successful companies must demonstrate how they will add social value to the community.

"We want to work with companies that give back to the communities that they work in, who promote a borough where people can grow, flourish and prosper, and strengthen the skills of the local workforce and support people into jobs."

Mears staff will continue as they are. Staff working on the current Fortem contract will be transferred under TUPE arrangements to Engie. When the new contract starts it is expected that staff will stay on existing or similar terms.

Mears website
ENGIE website

Images: ENGIE

Read more...

News: Millers extend Mears deal

Rotherham United have extended the business partnership with Mears Group, who have signed a new deal which will see them continue as the club's away shirt sponsors.

The Mears branding first appeared on the Millers' change strip in the 2017/18 season and will now remain a prominent feature until the conclusion of the 2019/20 campaign as a result of the new agreement.

Morrison Facilities Services, the company that maintains council properties in Rotherham, was acquired in 2012 by Mears, the UK's leading provider of social housing repairs and maintenance services.

This new deal further strengthens the relationship between the two parties, who are already in regular contact with the Mears National Training Facility based at the AESSEAL New York Stadium.

The Millers will soon be unveiling the designs of the two strips that they will wear on the road next season, which will proudly sport the Mears Group logo across the front following the signing of the new agreement.

Advertisement

Steve Coakley, commercial director at Rotherham United (pictured, left), said: "We are delighted to have agreed a deal that takes the shirt sponsorship into a third season.

"We are in regular contact with our friends at Mears, who have a heavy presence both here at the stadium and in and around the local community, they're held in very high regard.

"It is fantastic that we will be able to continue to work with David, who has been incredibly supportive in a number of ventures with the club.

"To have such a successful national PLC organisation on board is fabulous for the reputation of both parties and I am sure this new deal will see both ourselves and Mears continue to grow."

David Miles, chief executive officer at Mears (pictured, right), added: "The relationship that we have built up with Rotherham United over the years has been incredibly mutually beneficial and we are tremendously proud of our association with the club.

"The football club shares so many of our beliefs and we had no hesitation in extending what has been a partnership that has continued to flourish over time.

"The club are particularly active in the local community, as we are, and those values are paramount to us in our decision making when it comes to business partners.

"I am sure that over the course of the next season our relationship will continue to grow and I am hopeful that both parties are able to remain prominent at the heart of the local area."

RUFC website
Mears website

Images: RUFC

Read more...

News: Rotherham Council repairs contract up for renewal

The long term, multimillion pound contract to repair, maintain and invest in Rotherham Council's housing stock is up for renewal.

Tender documents show that the authority is looking to procure two service providers to partner with to deliver repairs, maintenance, compliance and investment works to properties plus communal areas, community centres, boiler houses and garages.

Given a value of £24m, the tender is broken down into two lots, one for North and one for South. The contract is set to start on April 1 2020 and run for five years.

Rotherham's current council housing stock of circa 20,500 dwellings is a mixture of low and medium rise accommodation, with a small amount of high rise stock. These include both traditional and non-traditional forms of construction.

Advertisement

In 2010 the authority first went out to the private sector.

From a base at Templeborough, Fortem works with the Council to deliver a repairs and maintenance service to 10,500 homes in the areas of Wentworth South, Wentworth Valley, Rother Valley West and Rother Valley South.

The company, then known as Willmott Dixon's property repairs and maintenance specialist, Willmott Dixon Partnerships, secured the five and a half year contract worth £58m with possible extensions up to 2020.

Morrison Facilities Services began a £60.5m contract to maintain council properties in 2010 to repair and maintain 13,000 properties in Rotherham North, Rotherham South and Wentworth North. Mears, the UK's leading provider of social housing repairs and maintenance services, acquired the company in 2012.

Mears operates a national training centre inside Rotherham United's New York Stadium. Discussions have been held around Fortem creating a new academy and bringing additional jobs to the borough.

The deadline for submitting tenders for the new contract is February 14.

Mears website
Fortem website

Images: Fortem

Read more...

News: Chamber members spread Christmas cheer

The Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber Annual Christmas Dinner, attended by 150 guests, raised over £1,000 for local charities.

Guests attending the Christmas dinner helped to raise funds in support of the Chamber's Charity of the year, City Hearts, and the President's Charity Fund through a tombola and raffle, which saw prizes donated by Chamber members.

Held at Tankersley Manor in Barnsley and sponsored by NPS Barnsley, Mears and MKB Solicitors, guests took part in the event which included entertainment from award-winning comedian Lea Roberts.

During the evening over £1,200 was raised, with £720 being donated to City Hearts and a further £550 being raised for the Chamber's President's Charity Fund. In addition to raising funds on the evening, the Chamber is calling on its members to donate warm clothes and gifts which help the vulnerable individuals supported by City Hearts.

Donations can be made at the Chamber's Rotherham office based at Genesis Park, which is acting as a collection point for donations.

Advertisement

Jenny Gilpin, founder of City Hearts, said: "We rely on the generosity of supporters and are grateful for the donations made. All proceeds raised at the Chamber event will go towards our Christmas Appeal, where for many of the families with us, this will be the first Christmas they have spent safe and loved in a long time. The donation will help us to bring the gift of hope to special families this year.

"City Hearts was founded to support and empower vulnerable individuals including those who, through no fault of their own, have become victims of trafficking or entrapped into modern slavery. We would like to sincerely thank everyone who purchased a raffle ticket on the night as well as those who have donated clothing to our Christmas Appeal."

Andrew Denniff, Chief Executive of Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber, added: "We've enjoyed a successful twelve months, during which time we have welcomed new members of staff to the organisation, seen our membership grow and despite difficult trading conditions for many of our members, there seems to be renewed optimism in many areas as we look towards 2018. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all of our members who have supported our events programme this year and for the generosity they have shown in helping those who are less fortunate.

"At this time of year, we believe it is more important to give than receive and I would like to thank all of our members who attended this year’s Christmas Dinner and donated so generously to a very worthy cause. We held a few more festive events throughout December, helping to increase the impressive total raised on the evening."

Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber website

Images: Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber

Read more...

News: Employment event back at Magna

Students and jobseekers are invited to attend the LEAF (Local Employment Advisory Forum) event, which will be held at the Magna Science Adventure Centre in Rotherham next week.

The free event on Monday November 13 is being held for the fifth year running and brings together local businesses and organisations with hundreds of vacancies, showcasing employment and training opportunities in the area, as well as providing advice on how to gain the skills employers are looking for.

Last year, the event attracted over 1,400 people, including school and college students and jobseekers, wanting to find out about local training and employment opportunities. Some even received job offers on the day.

LEAF is not just a traditional jobs fair - it has a focus on helping people progress in the right career as well as supporting young people to make the right choices when planning their career pathways. It is suitable for anyone aged 13 years and upwards, as well as those currently seeking work.

Over 60 exhibitors will be on hand from 12.30pm until 3.30pm, ranging from Morrison Mears, Liberty Steel, Webhelp, New York Bakery and Rotherham NHS to provide information on current vacancies, knowledge of their industry, advice on how to gain the skills needed by employers and how to be successful in presenting yourself to a prospective employer.

Sectors represented include food manufacturing, engineering, health and social care, construction, armed forces, hospitality, warehouse and logistics.

Advertisement

Following last year's event, careers adviser Sarah Sykes from Aston Academy said: "Our students really enjoyed attending the LEAF event and found it beneficial. One of our students was able to find out more about the NHS and Rotherham College health apprenticeships. She had the opportunity to talk to staff from both organisations and she was really buzzing about it afterwards.

"At one point the student and I talked to an employer together and the student was thrilled to get positive feedback about her demeanour from the employer. When we returned to school she was motivated to complete her UCAS Progress application form and as she had found out the information at the event she was able to apply for the relevant course and apprenticeship opportunities."

A morning session is open to Rotherham schools and is by invitation only, with around 400 young people expected to attend.

During the afternoon session which is open to the public, there will also be business start-up support and advice available as well as help with writing a CV. The winner of Rotherham’s Young Entrepreneur of The Year Award will also be announced.

Cllr Denise Lelliott, Cabinet Member for Jobs and the Local Economy at Rotherham Council, said: "This is a great opportunity for young people and job seekers to find out more about the opportunities on offer to them in Rotherham and further afield."

Andy Chambers, general manager at Mears in Rotherham, said: "We are pleased to once again host the LEAF event along with our partners in Rotherham. We have always supported local employment initiatives and set up the Local Employment Advisory Forum to enable local people to find out more about improving their skills and offering information to help them succeed in their training and employment goals."

The event is sponsored by Mears and Rotherham Council, delivered in partnership with Jobcentre Plus, with event patrons; Phoenix Enterprises, University Centre Rotherham and Barnsley College.

Images: RMBC

Read more...

News: Rotherham charity's new place of peace

A unique partnership between Rotherham Council and construction companies, Fortem and Mears, has played a key role in creating a new home for homelessness charity, Shiloh.

An official opening ceremony recently took place at the old Weighbridge building on Station Road, with Rotherham's Mayor Cllr Eve Rose Keenan also unveiling a special plaque commemorating Shiloh's 25 years serving the local community.

Moving from Sheffield Road to the council's former weighbridge at Masbrough, the facility will provide support to vulnerable people who are going through a difficult period in their lives, including homelessness, by providing them with the life skills needed to get back on their feet.

Meanwhile, the Big Lottery funding will enable Shiloh to expand its work, as well as help the organisation provide around 20,000 meals a year.

Advertisement

John McDonnell, Chairman for Shiloh (pictured welcoming volunteers and guests), said: "The way that churches, individuals and businesses contributed in various ways to make sure the project was completed was fantastic. Even businesses who would normally be competitors, worked tirelessly together on the project. We asked a decorating company for some rollers and brushes and they sent in a team of decorators.

"RMBC staff left their PCs and desks, rolled up their sleeves to paint, clean and get the place ready. Then there was that lady, who day after day, jumped on a bus to Shiloh, tirelessly cleaning and cleaning everything. The Rotherham community are so kind hearted!"

Fortem and Mears work with Rotherham Council to deliver a repairs and maintenance service to homes across the borough.

Fortem undertook extensive works to the electrics, refurbished the toilet blocks and re-commissioned the heating system, including the installation of a new boiler.

David Coldwell, general manager of Fortem Rotherham, said: "Our work in the communities of Rotherham brings us in contact every day with those who are less fortunate. It has been a pleasure helping Shiloh update their new premises, which will enhance the wellbeing of the residents who use the building and provide a lifeline for those experiencing hardship."

Mears also undertook extensive building and structural works to help transform the premises.

Andrew Chambers, general manager of the Rotherham branch, said: "We are proud to have been part of the transformation of Shiloh's new premises and their continuing journey in supporting local people who find themselves in need.

"We have huge admiration for Shiloh's work and look forward to continuing our work through our partnership with the Council to leave a lasting legacy in the community."

Shiloh website

Images: Shiloh

Read more...

News: Millers extend partnership deals

Rotherham United have extended the Club partnership with long standing affiliates Ben Bennett until the end of the 2020/21 season.

Ben Bennett Jnr is an Eastwood-based steel strip manufacturer that has had a long association with the football club. It has held the Family East Stand sponsorship at the AESSEAL New York Stadium since the £20m facility opened in 2012, and as part of the new agreement the Ben Bennett name and logo will remain for the next four years.

Mr Bennett (pictured above, right), whose company has spanned six generations of the Bennett family, said: "We're delighted to be continuing our affiliation and, whilst we've been relegated this season, we're still immensely proud of what the Club has achieved in recent years and to have this wonderful stadium here in Rotherham is just fantastic.

"We're really happy to have our family name continue to be displayed at what is a truly marvellous ground here at AESSEAL New York Stadium."

Mark Hitchens, head of commercial at Rotherham United (pictured above, left), added: "It is rare in football to have such a partnership like the one we enjoy with Ben Bennett and his family. I have personally enjoyed over ten years working with the Bennett family, but their association with this football club goes back decades before my time here.

"Their love for the Millers is as strong now as it was back in the 1950s when Mr. Bennett attended his first Rotherham United match. They really do love their football, and have become part of the fabric of this club."

Advertisement

Rotherham United has also confirmed that long-standing partners, Mears Group, has signed a deal to become the club's away and third shirt sponsors until the end of the 2018/19 campaign. A new home shirt has recently been unveiled.

Mears is the UK's leading provider of social housing repairs and maintenance services and maintains council properties across the borough. It is the sponsor of the South Stand at AESSEAL New York Stadium, and last year opened its National Training Facility, across five floors, within one of the units at the stadium.

Steve Coakley, commercial Director at Rotherham United (pictured below, left), said: "We have always enjoyed a successful working relationship with Mears which really has flourished since we've been here to the AESSEAL New York Stadium.

"We are thrilled to furthermore enhance what is already a fabulous partnership with such a successful National PLC organisation, we're all truly delighted."

David Miles of Mears (pictured below, right), added: "Mears is delighted to be extending our highly valued Partnership with Rotherham United Football club, our community centric initiatives and how we both wish to do business is very aligned and these values are important to us when finding the right partner.

"Rotherham is a beacon for building and supporting local sustainable communities, through its tireless work, to which, Mears is very proud to be associated with the club."

The Millers has also extended its partnership with local company CRB Doors in association with DG Doors, who will continue their association with the club until the end of the 2017/18 campaign.

The company, who have bases in Parkgate and Sheffield, have supplied and maintained all the shutters and fire doors at AESSEAL New York Stadium since 2014.

Chris Barnes of CRB Doors, said: "We're delighted to be extending our association with the club for another season, having really enjoyed our relationship over the last few years."

Rotherham United website

Images: RUFC

Read more...

News: Work begins on Shiloh's new home

Big-hearted local firms have come together to provide a helping hand at Shiloh's new home in Rotherham.

Moving from Sheffield Road to the council's former weighbridge at Masbrough, Shiloh provides its guests with access to a wide range of services free of charge, including hot meals, washing facilities, laundry facilities, counselling services and clothing.

Outgrowing its current Westgate facilities with the lease due to expire, the Council, in partnership with its main repairs and maintenance contractors, Willmott Dixon and Mears are now finalising the delivery plan for a full modernised refurbishment programme of the weighbridge, which will enable Shiloh and its partners to expand on a range of essential  services they deliver to Shiloh's guests (clients) now, and for many years to come.

The building project is also being supported by John Box Associates who offered their professional services at no charge and designed the conversion and got the plans passed and through building control.

John Goodyear and Company Ltd has also come on board to ensure the whole building process proceeds safely and efficiently.

If that wasn't enough, the Probation Service also offered their help and has already started the makeover, changing the appearance of an old dilapidated 1960's building to giving it a bright and modern look inside and out.

Advertisement

With the delivery plan almost complete, Madam Mayor, Lyndsay Pitchley was more than pleased to initiate the start of the major undertaking by hitting the first brick.

John McDonnell, services development manager at Shiloh, said: "Seeing our guests progress and become self-reliant, with some starting to volunteer and others getting employment, is so rewarding. However we soon realised we needed more rooms for mentoring, classes, activities and hairdressing etc. We will be able to do all that and much more in the new Shiloh."

"We recently had a funding campaign to purchase a new kitchen for the new Shiloh, this was a tremendous success and the new kitchen will be installed shortly. A big thanks to all you generous folks who donated.

"We are still needing some help to pay for a shower room, and also for the floor coverings we will need for the large dining room and kitchen, so if you can support us again please get in touch."

Shiloh website

Images: Shiloh

Read more...

News: Mears opens national training academy in Rotherham

Mears, the UK's leading provider of social housing repairs and maintenance services, has officially opened its new national Training Academy at the AESSEAL New York Stadium in Rotherham.

In 2012, Mears acquired Morrison Facilities Services, the company that maintained council properties in Rotherham, as part of £60.5m contract signed in 2010. The five and a half year deal, with four possible one-year extensions, is to repair and maintain 13,000 properties in Rotherham North, Rotherham South and Wentworth North.

Opened on site of the former Guest & Chrimes foundry on the edge of Rotherham town centre in 2012, the £20m stadium was built with a number of units and space for commercial and community uses and to host a variety of events.

Taking nearly 9,000 sq ft of space in the main stand, the Training Academy delivers accredited apprenticeships for those starting a career in construction and social housing repairs and maintenance, as well as providing training for those currently working in the industry.

Advertisement

Housed over five floors, the facility has three dedicated workshops, classrooms, meeting rooms and an IT suite. It runs courses on plumbing, electrics, roofing, carpentry, joinery, plastering, and painting and decorating for up to 120 people per day.

The Rotherham Academy is a national training facility and is run by in-house training company, Mears Learning, which also operates a new training academy in Brentwood, Essex.

Graham Eden, executive director of Mears, said: "We have opened the Training Academy as part of our ongoing efforts to address skills shortages in the sector. It is estimated that 230,000 new tradespeople will be needed in the UK by 2020.

"The main objective of the Training Academy is to support unemployed young people and adults of all ages and sexes to gain skills for employment. It will also include a new business and management school and, in the future, offer purpose-designed courses and services to our clients."

Advertisement

Cllr. Dominic Beck, Cabinet Member for Housing at Rotherham Council, added: "The Council is delighted one of our main partners has decided to create its national academy in Rotherham, which will add real value in terms of employment opportunities and further benefits to the local economy.

"If we are to meet the requirements for housing in Rotherham, it is essential we have skilled and expert local tradespeople. Giving young people a chance to gain skills will not only help them gain employment, but also help us fill the skills gap to meet the growing demand for affordable housing."

The award-winning Rotherham United Community Sports Trust (RUCST) is also opening a training facility at the stadium, fitting out three floors with classrooms, office space and a health / activity floor.

Rotherham-based Burgess Commercial is acting on behalf of the landlord, R U Estates, and have also secured a letting with the TTC Group taking 2,200 sq ft of space.

Mears Group website

Images: Mears

Read more...

News: NYS to become Trust's training ground

The award-winning Rotherham United Community Sports Trust (RUCST) is set to develop the skills of future prospects from a new state of the art facility at the AESSEAL New York Stadium.

The Trust is relocating from Mangham House on the Barbot Hall Industrial Estate which has been its home ever since the club's departure from Millmoor in 2008.

Opened on site of the former Guest & Chrimes foundry on the edge of Rotherham town centre in 2012, the £20m stadium was built with a number of units and space for commercial and community uses and to host a variety of events.

The Community Sports Trust already utilises the stadium for a wide variety of its initiatives. These include activities that promote health and well-being, health screening and job clubs. It was recently nominated for the Johnstone's Paint Community Club of the Year at the Football League Awards, the award it won back in 2012.

RUCST delivers BTEC Level 2 & 3, Apprenticeships, Foundation Degree and alternative education programmes. The move has been planned for the last couple of years, but with approval earlier in the year for 7,000 sq ft of space in the West stand to be used for education purposes, work has been in full swing.

Advertisement

The new facility will extend over three floors. Three classrooms for educational provision will have the latest educational equipment enabling the students to study to their full potential.

A health / activity floor will have two reaction walls, gym equipment such as kettle bells, vipr bars and medicine balls. Along with this, it will have multi-functional gym exercise equipment, sprung floor and a mirrored wall for dance sessions.

Office space will include 17 desks to accommodate both RCUST staff and community coaches in a hot desk style along with meeting areas and kitchen facilities.

Jamie Noble, head of community at RUCST, said: "2016/17 will be a fantastic year for everyone at the trust, being in the stadium with the club is a huge step in the right direction and it can only improve the fantastic work we are already doing. Not only will this facility provide an amazing place for our staff to work, it will offer the community new facility to partake in our provision.

"Rotherham United Community Sports Trust would like to thank Mears Group (Rotherham) for their continued support throughout the planning and building of this fantastic facility, without their help this would not have been possible."

Also in the West stand, 8,800 sq ft over four floors has been kitted out with project bays and classrooms for Mears Learning. Mears, the UK's leading provider of social housing repairs and maintenance services, maintains council properties in the borough. Taking on Full Circle Learning Limited and with facilities on Thames Street, the new Mears training centre is at the stadium where it sponsors the South stand.

Paul Burgess of Burgess Commercial, acting on behalf of the landlord, R U Estates, said: "We are delighted to conclude the letting of accommodation to the Trust after many months of discussions. The presence of the Trust will undoubtedly add to the vibrancy of the stadium and also enable their good work, to continue."

Recent lettings within the New York Stadium include 8,848 sq ft of office and training accommodation to Mears and 2,200 sq ft to the TTC Group.

Plans, submitted by Signet Planning on behalf of RU Estates Ltd, stated: "Since its opening in 2012, our client has continually sought to attract proposals for non-football related activities within the stadium complex in order to improve its viability and to encourage a wider range of uses..., the objective being to make the stadium a more integral part of Rotherham rather than just having it being used on matchdays."

RUCST website
Burgess Commercial website

Images: Rotherham United

Read more...

News: Mears Group extend stadium sponsorship

Mears Group has extended the deal with Rotherham United to sponsor the South Stand at AESSEAL New York Stadium for another three years.

Morrison Facilities Services, the company that maintains council properties in Rotherham, was acquired in 2012 by Mears, the UK's leading provider of social housing repairs and maintenance services. The company began a £60.5m contract to maintain council properties in Rotherham in 2010. The five and a half year deal, with four possible one-year extensions, is to repair and maintain 13,000 properties in Rotherham North, Rotherham South and Wentworth North.

The stand, previously known as the Morrison Stand since the £20m stadium opened in 2012, will undergo a name change, taking on the title of the parent company Mears.

Alan Long, executive director of Mears Group (pictured, right), said: "Rotherham United Football Club share our values in working closely with local people and local communities. That's why we are proud to extend our partnership for another three years."

Steve Coakley, commercial director at Rotherham United (pictured, left), added: "I am very excited to have extended our contract with a brand as well respected as Mears Group and am very proud that our South Stand will once again carry their name.

"This announcement once again demonstrates how far we have come commercially as a football club and the involvement of nationally recognised businesses like Mears reiterates the growth of Rotherham United Football Club's reputation. 

"The deal completes the extension on sponsorship agreements on all four stands at AESSEAL New York Stadium, and with the same companies committing long-term it shows that we have a fantastic working relationship with our commercial partners and long may that continue."

Also at the Championship club, e-commerce website developer and on-line marketing specialists, Purpose Media, has signed a community partnership deal with Rotherham United's Community Sports Trust that will benefit young people and enable them to gain valuable skills that will help them secure a future career.

The Trust is a community development programme that works across the borough of Rotherham in deprived areas with different communities and age groups. Through the power of football it promotes physical and emotional health, healthy eating, healthy lifestyle, learning, confidence building, social integration and community cohesion. In 2012, Rotherham United was named the Coca-Cola Community Club of the Year at the Football League Awards.

Matt Wheatcroft, managing director at Purpose Media, said: "I played a lot of sport when I was young, so I know from my own experience that when faced with to much spare time on my hands it would have been easy to follow a wrong path. Community programmes help to fill that time with learning experiences that provide skills that will be of more value to a future employer."

Jamie Noble, head of community at Rotherham United, added: "Local businesses play a vital role in supporting our work in the voluntary sector so I am really pleased that Purpose Media have become a community partner. By engaging with them we also benefit from their knowledge and expertise which helps us deliver community initiatives that really do work and change lives."

Rotherham United website
Mears Group website
Purpose Media website

Images: RUFC

Read more...

News: Rotherham Local Employment Advisory Forum

Rotherham businesses are coming together later this month to highlight local career and skills development opportunities.

Mears, the company that works on a council housing repair and maintenance contract in Rotherham, is sponsoring its third annual series of Local Employment Advisory Forums (LEAF) across the UK and the event in Rotherham will take place at the Magna Science Adventure Centre on November 17 and is being jointly hosted with Rotherham Council.

Businesses will get the opportunity to speak to young people and job seekers about the employment opportunities they may have within their companies, and the employability skills and qualifications needed to access them. Those seeking to improve their skills and receive advice on returning to the employment market are invited to come along to the Rotherham LEAF to obtain practical support and find out more about careers.

The event will focus on young people for the morning session and adult jobseekers and college students in the afternoon.

A whole host of local organisations including businesses, social housing landlords and charities will be on hand to offer guidance on employment and gaining skills and qualifications needed for work. There will be 70 business exhibiting, the event will be a fantastic opportunity to receive free face-to-face advice from organisations and find out more about working in different sectors and what employers are looking for from candidates. Also in attendance is the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) with Boeing's Manufacturing Transporter (pictured), the unique travelling showcase for advanced engineering.

As the job search can be particularly hard for people who have never worked and for those who have been out of the job market for a while, people attending the event will be able to receive information on skills required for particular roles within local businesses, along with interview tips and practical advice on CV writing and job applications. There is also an opportunity for attendees to find out about local employment vacancies in the area.

Alan Long, executive director at Mears, said: "Mears set up Local Employment Advisory Forums to provide advice on employment, skills and training. We believe that offering information, advice and guidance is a step towards tackling worklessness and assisting people on their journey to employment.

"We are delighted to host this event and work with our partners in Rotherham to support local people to find out more about improving their skills and finding out more information to help people succeed in setting and achieving their training and employment goals."

Mears website
Rotherham Council website

Images: AMRC

Read more...

News: Ballot for industrial action in Rotherham

Staff working on a council housing repair and maintenance contract in Rotherham are being balloted over possible industrial action.

Construction union UCATT, alongside other local government unions Unite, GMB and UNISON are involved in a dispute with Morrison Facilities Services Ltd.

Morrison began a £60.5m contract to maintain council properties in 2010. The five and a half year deal, with four possible one-year extensions, is to repair and maintain 13,000 properties in Rotherham North, Rotherham South and Wentworth North. The firm was acquired by Mears in a £24m deal in 2012.

UCATT said in a statement that the dispute is over a large number of industrial relations issues including: the re-instatement of dismissed operatives; company policies and how they are implemented; how human resources handle disciplinary issues; vehicle checks not being made in work time; the storage of work tools on a workers' own premises and; threat to de-recognise unions and unacceptable behaviour towards shop stewards.

Rob Morris, regional secretary for UCATT, said: "UCATT has done everything possible to try to resolve these issues without resorting to industrial action. However management have refused to recognise our concerns so we have had no option but to seek a mandate for strike action from our members."

As part of the Rotherham contract, Morrison opened its Yorkshire Training Academy on Thames Street that provides training for all of the company's apprentices in Yorkshire, currently around 40 students, as well as training initiatives for the local community.

Earlier this year the care sector part of the Mears Group was awarded new contracts by the NHS Rotherham Clinical Commissioning Group to deliver continuing healthcare.

Mears website

Images:

Read more...

News: Mears acquires Morrison

Morrison Facilities Services, the company that maintains council properties in Rotherham, has been acquired by Mears, the UK's leading provider of social housing repairs and maintenance services.

Morrison, which has in excess of 2,500 employees, delivers services to social housing clients in the UK.

It began a £60.5m contract to maintain council properties in 2010. The five and a half year deal, with four possible one-year extensions, is to repair and maintain 13,000 properties in Rotherham North, Rotherham South and Wentworth North.

The £24m acquisition adds further to Mears' current portfolio of more than 500,000 properties.

In a joint statement, both companies said that "the Morrison contract base fits well with Mears' structure and service delivery ethos. The acquisition increases Mears' capability and experience of running very large contracts. The enlarged Group will combine expertise and resources to deliver the best possible service for our customers."

David Miles, chief executive at Mears Group, added: "This is an exciting acquisition for Mears and we look forward to welcoming Morrison staff to the Mears family. I am confident that this will bring benefits for clients, tenants and staff.

"We will work closely with all partners to ensure a smooth a transition as possible towards an integrated, sustainable, customer focussed group."

As part of the Rotherham contract, Morisson opened its Yorkshire Training Academy on Thames Street that provides training for all of the company's apprentices in Yorkshire, currently around 40 students, as well as training initiatives for the local community.

Morrison website

Mears website

Images: morrisonplc.com

Read more...