Join the conversation about the future of Barnsley

People are encouraged to ‘think bold’ in their responses when talking about what the future of Barnsley could hold.

Barnsley Council together with a range of partners from health, business, education and the voluntary sector organisations have launched the Barnsley 2030 conversation, to listen to people’s stories of the borough and to create a thriving future for everyone.

Responses will help to build a picture of what people think is unique about the borough; the challenges people feel they are facing and their future ambitions. This will provide an understanding of what the borough’s priorities should be for the next ten years, with the drive to make the Barnsley borough a place where people can realise their potential and be inspired to create a better life.

People can have their say in a variety of ways:

• Barnsley CVS are supporting community researchers who are out and about in communities, talking face to face with people and groups.
• Workshops and focus groups are being held specifically for public, private and voluntary sector organisations.
• Paper surveys are available for people to complete and post back.
• Online survey.

Councillor Sir Steve Houghton CBE, Leader of Barnsley Council, said: “Barnsley 2030 is the perfect opportunity for people to get involved and shape the future of the Barnsley borough. I encourage you to take part in these conversations, as the Barnsley 2030 priorities will influence yours and your family’s future.

“We need to build on Barnsley’s strengths and tackle challenges together so that we can make it a place where everyone benefits from the growth and regeneration happening across the borough. We’re looking towards the year 2030 because we think this will give us enough time to make some real positive change. We want the whole borough, not just the council, to transform and develop turning our borough-wide ambitions into a reality.

John Marshall, Chief Executive of Barnsley CVS, said: “We are delighted to be involved in Barnsley 2030. This is a real chance for people to make their voices heard. As the champion of the community and voluntary sector we are looking forward to hearing all the inspiring thoughts for the future.”

Amanda Garrard, Berneslai Homes Chief Executive, adds: “It’s really important for our tenants and staff to get involved in the Barnsley 2030 conversation.  We will be encouraging them to come along to the workshops and focus groups, so they can contribute to the future vision of our town.”

Yiannis Koursis, Principal and Chief Executive of Barnsley College, adds: “As a major education provider and employer in Barnsley, we are keen to find out what local people want the town to look like in the coming years.

“The College’s vision is to Transform Lives and the education and training we provide for the community in Barnsley and beyond is key to shaping the town’s future. We are looking forward to hearing about the challenges people are facing and the ambitions they hold, so that our future offer can help to support this.”

If someone needs support to complete the survey either for reasons relating to disability or a communication support need, or if they would like to request an Easy Read version of the survey, please direct them to Teresa Gibson or Rachel Neale at Barnsley CVS on 01226 812813. If they are Deaf or hard of hearing they can text 07476340270.

Library staff across the borough can offer guidance and support people to people wishing to complete the online survey using the computers within the library.

Please take a few minutes to complete the survey here

For more information, visit www.barnsley.gov.uk/barnsley-2030.