Author Archives: Community

  1. RUCST | Job vacancy – Casual Sports Coach (Evening & Weekends)

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    Rotherham United Community Sports Trust are seeking to appoint an enthusiastic, charismatic and dedicated individual to join our coaching team – This role mainly requires the individual(s) to work evening and weekends.

    We are a diverse Trust that respects differences in race, disability, gender, faith background or personal circumstances we welcome all application. We want everyone to feel valued and included in the football community and to achieve their full potential. The trust is opposed to any discrimination and commits itself to the redress of any inequalities by taking positive action where appropriate.

    Job Role:  Casual Sports Coach (Evening & Weekends)
    Hours:  0 Hours, Casual
    Salary: £10 per hour, inclusive of holiday pay.

    How to apply:
    Download Job Description here

    Closing date: 28th of May 2021, 12noon. 
    Interview date: TBC

    Please send a copy of your CV to jobs@rotherhamunited.net, if you require any more information please contact Jamie, Head of Community at Jnoble@rotherhamunited.net.

    This job description is not to be regarded as exclusive or exhaustive. It is intended as an outline indication of the areas of activity and will be amended in light of the changing needs of Rotherham United Community Sports Trust. Employment is subject to the provision of proof of eligibility to work in the UK.

    RUCST is committed to safeguarding and promoting welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expects all staff to share this commitment.

    As part of this commitment to providing a safe environment for our young people, we require all candidates to undertake and return a satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate. RUCST will assist with the application for, and pay for the process of, a new DBS for staff members where required.

    Criminal Records Disclosures

    We recognise the contribution that former or ex-offenders can make as an employee; a person’s criminal record will not, in itself, debar that person from being appointed to this post. Candidates will be given the opportunity to provide us with information on their criminal record, which will be treated in the strictest confidence. Suitable applicants will not be refused posts because of any offences which are not relevant to the role and which do not make them a risk in the role for which they are applying.

    Equal Opportunities

  2. NEWS | RUCST partner with Places Leisure to launch Mini Millers Rotherham

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    Rotherham United Community Sports Trust are delighted to announce that they will be working as an exclusive partner with Places Leisure to provide high quality football and sports activities in Rotherham’s first class leisure venues.

    The club has always had great links with Places Leisure with the first team regularly using the facilities including the swimming pools and spinning rooms, and now the Trust will be working in partnership with Places Leisure for a number of years by expanding this partnership further to provide more opportunities for children and families in Rotherham.

    Mini Millers is the youngest element to the Future Stars Talent Pathway and is linked by the Trust to the Rotherham United Academy and aims to start children from just 18 months old learning the FUNdamental’s of good physical activity and football skills using the Rotherham United philosophy which is the golden thread through our footballing offer.

    Rotherham United Academy now has 30% of their intake from 8 years old who have come through the Future Stars pathway and this continues to grow term on term.

    Currently Mini Millers and Future Stars is ran from Parkgate Astro, Rawmarsh and the AESSEAL New York Stadium and now the link with Places Leisure offers more weekly football sessions in the Town indoors to ensure the weather is never a factor.

    Head of Community Jamie Noble said: “It is more important than ever to offer these additional Future Stars and Mini Millers sessions due to impact of Covid. We are passionate about wanting to get people active and enjoying sport again.”

    “Since returning to play we have been inundated with parents wanting their children to get involved in football with the Millers and after having conversations for over a year now is the time to expand our football offer using the great partnership we have with Mark Rawding and Emily Newman. The Facilities they provide are some of the best in the town and as the towns professional club we want to make sure we are using the best facilities and the centres at Maltby, Aston and soon to be the Town Centre are ideal. “

    Football Development Coach Adam Pilgrim said: “I’m delighted that we have the opportunity to be able to expand our programme in partnership with Places Leisure. I’m sure this partnership will have a really positive impact in our community as we continue to get as many young people as possible engaging in sport again after a difficult year. All of the coaching team are keen to get out around Rotherham providing quality sessions where the kids can play the best game in the world with a smile on their faces. We are all UEFA B licensed coaches and we know how important it is to get the FUNdamentals right.”

    Places Leisure have operated in the town for many years and are extremely passionate about helping local communities stay physically active and emotionally engaged in fitness, sport and wellbeing.

    Mark Rawding Contract Manager for Places Leisure said: “We are thrilled to be supporting the mini millers sessions within our facilities, working in partnership with Rotherham United Community Sports Trust to help engage with local communities in delivering physical activity sessions for young people”

    Mini Millers sessions will now take place on:

    • Mondays at Maltby Leisure centre from 09:30-10:30 for children aged 18 months-3 years old
    • Thursdays at the New York Stadium from 09:30-10:30 for children aged 18 months-3 years old, with a later session at 16:00-17:00 for 2-4 year olds.
    • Saturdays at Parkgate Astro from 09:00-10:00 for 2-4 year olds.
    • Sundays at Aston Leisure Centre from 09:00-10:00 for 2-4 year olds.

    Future stars mixed sessions will take place on:

    • Wednesdays at Parkgate Astro from 6pm-7pm for ages 15-16 years.
    • Fridays at Parkgate Astro from 4:45pm-5:45pm for ages 5-8 years.
    • Saturdays at Parkgate Astro from 9am-10am for ages 5-9 years, with a later session at 10am-11am for 10-13 years.
    • Sundays at Aston Leisure Centre from 10am-11am for ages 5-7.

    Future Stars GIRLS sessions will take place on:

    • Mondays at Parkgate Astro from 6pm-7pm for ages 5-11 years.
    • Wednesdays at Wickersley School from 6pm-7pm for ages 12-14 years.
    • Wednesdays at Parkgate Astro from 6pm-7pm for ages 15-16 years.
    • Sundays at Aston Leisure Centre from 11am-12pm for ages 5-11 years.

    To book online, click HERE.

    For more information, email apilgrim@rotherhamunited.net

  3. NEWS | RUCST’s Spring Bank Holiday camps return

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    This spring bank holiday we are running our two camps; Future Stars Football camp at Wickersley School and Holiday Hunger Multi-sports camp at Parkgate Astro.

    Future Stars Football Camp

    Our Future Stars football camp is for boys and girls aged 5-14. This camp is for children of any ability level, and the camp includes training sessions, fun games and competitions that are all delivered by our fantastic UEFA qualified coaches.

    This camp will take place from 10am-3pm on Tuesday 1st June- Friday 4th June at Wickersley School.

    This camp costs £15 per day, or £50 for the week. Click HERE to book online.

    Holiday Hunger FREE Multi-sports Camp

    This is a FREE multi-sports camp for any children aged 8-16 who require support with food and activity over the spring holiday period.

    This camp is part of the Holiday Hunger campaign, and includes a free hot meal. 

    This camp will take place from 10am-3pm on Tuesday 1st June- Friday 4th June at Parkgate Astro.

    Click HERE to book online.

    Bookings close on Friday 21st May, so book now to avoid disappointment!

    For more information, email participation@rotherhamunited.net or call 01709 827767.

  4. NEWS | RUCST celebrate Football Welcomes month with an inclusive match at Parkgate Astro

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    Rotherham United Community Sports Trust celebrated Amnesty International’s ‘Football Welcomes’ month in April with an inclusive ‘United 4 Communities’ football match at Parkgate Astro.

    Football Welcomes month celebrated the contribution that refugees and asylum seekers make to football within communities in the UK. Football can give people a sense of belonging, and this is incredibly important for those who have had to flee conflict and persecution.

    RUCST organised a friendly 9v9 football match at Parkgate Astro, with the teams made up of our regular attendees to our United 4 Communities sessions, some RUCST staff and a few participants from our mental health sessions.

    This friendly match enabled us to celebrate the diverse communities that can be brought together through the universal love of football within Rotherham.

    As a club and a community, we all have a role to play in showing solidarity with people who have had to flee their homes and rebuild their lives in another country.

    Inclusion manager Trudi Race said:

    “For a long time now the Trust has supported refugees and asylum seekers through fitness and football related activities and we have witnessed first-hand the benefits that this can bring to the whole family, not just the players. Today has been a great event, promoting cohesion and inclusivity which is at the forefront of our values”.

  5. NEWS | NCS grads ‘Box Of Kindness’ project puts smiles on vulnerable faces

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    As part of their social action project, some of our NCS graduates worked with a charity called REMA to create some small boxes that were filled with items to send out to people in the community to spread positivity and encourage cohesion within the community. These boxes were donated to vulnerable and isolated people across many different areas of the community.

    A group of around 8/10 NCS Graduates (aged 16-18) put together a few different items for the boxes such as quizzes, letters, games, playlists and crafts. RUCST received some funding from the Legacy Fund from NCS Trust that helped us to buy small items such as note pads, packs of cards, colouring pencils, puzzle and colouring books and craft items for the young people to make items for the boxes.

    We are delighted to see our social action project put smiles on so many faces in what has been such a tough and trying year. Well done to our NCS grads!

  6. JOB VACANCY | Diverse Communities Engagement Officer (2 posts available)

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    Rotherham United are seeking to appoint an Innovative and charismatic person to work within its expanding Community Sports Trust with a specific focus on engaging with Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic residents.

    The Covid-19 pandemic has both highlighted and exacerbated the inequalities faced by Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. We are looking for a Diverse Communities Engagement Officer who has experience in community engagement and who can plan and deliver a diverse range of activities that will support Black, Asian and minority ethnic adults 19+ (and their families) to move closer to employment and/or improve physical and mental wellbeing.

    This person will have a passion for equality and will contribute to ensuring the Trust is inclusive, diverse and promoting cohesion in all aspects of our work. 

    Job Role:  Diverse Communities Engagement Officer (2 positions available)
    Hours:  15 hours per week
    Salary: £21,000.00 (FTE)

    How to apply:
    Download application form here
    Download Job Description here

    Closing date: 28th of May 2021, 12noon. 
    Interview date: TBC

    Please send a copy of your job application to jobs@rotherhamunited.net, if you require any more information please contact Jamie, Head of Community at Jnoble@rotherhamunited.net.

    This job description is not to be regarded as exclusive or exhaustive. It is intended as an outline indication of the areas of activity and will be amended in light of the changing needs of Rotherham United Community Sports Trust. Employment is subject to the provision of proof of eligibility to work in the UK.

    RUCST is committed to safeguarding and promoting welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expects all staff to share this commitment.

    As part of this commitment to providing a safe environment for our young people, we require all candidates to undertake and return a satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate. RUCST will assist with the application for, and pay for the process of, a new DBS for staff members where required.

    Criminal Records Disclosures

    We recognise the contribution that former or ex-offenders can make as an employee; a person’s criminal record will not, in itself, debar that person from being appointed to this post. Candidates will be given the opportunity to provide us with information on their criminal record, which will be treated in the strictest confidence. Suitable applicants will not be refused posts because of any offences which are not relevant to the role and which do not make them a risk in the role for which they are applying.

    Equal Opportunities

  7. NEWS | Miller Bear shows support for Beat the Street launch day

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    Rotherham United Community Sports Trust celebrated the ‘Beat the Street’ launch day by surprising Thrybergh Fullerton primary school with a special guest appearance from the Millers mascot Miller Bear.

    Beat the Street is a fun, free challenge that will see schools, businesses and community groups around Rotherham compete against each other to see who can walk, run, cycle, scoot or roll the furthest in six weeks.

    This initiative is a healthy, fun and easy way to raise the awareness of your club or group whilst exploring new areas in the community at the same time.

    To track your journey and score points for your team, all you have to do is tap your fob on the sensors called ‘Beat Boxes’ that will be placed on lampposts and street furniture across Rotherham. Players will be issued with a map of where these ‘Beat Boxes’ will be placed, and children will be issued fobs through their schools, or from our club shop here at the Aesseal New York Stadium.

    RUCST’s Head of Community Jamie Noble said:

    “Rotherham United is delighted to be supporting the Beat the Street initiative. Given the last year it’s really important to encourage children and families to get out and about in a safe and healthy way. The boxes are positioned to enable people to stay local but get out of the house and have a bit of fun as a family. I personally am signed up with my two children and have already been able to visit a few of the boxes in my neighbourhood and we are really looking forward to finding more.”  

    Beat the Street is a covid-safe game, as it is played outdoors and is low-risk, contactless and easy to play whilst adhering to social distancing guidelines.

    At the end of the six weeks, the winning teams will receive vouchers worth up to £150.

    Beat the Street will run from April 14th to the end of May. For more information on how to register your organisation or club go to https://www.beatthestreet.me/rotherham/ or email team.rotherham@beatthestreet.me

  8. NEWS | Future Stars return

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    We are delighted to announce the return of our Future Stars provision after a period of absence due to covid restrictions. We will be picking up where we left off, with an abundance of new sessions catering for Mini Millers, Girls only, Open sessions and squads.

    The Future Stars sessions give children from as young as 18 months the opportunity to come and learn new football skills in a fun and safe environment, for the younger participants it gives them a chance to be introduced to football and play new games with their parents whilst also interacting with other children but For the older participants, it gives them a chance to build their skills whilst learning about competitions and making new friends.

    These sessions are designed to be accessible to children of all abilities and include a special skills week where children will be able to take on different challenges in order to gain different levels in that particular area, we will then work through a structured program to help the children move up and progress through the different levels, this will become an integral part of the 10 week program as we feel it is important that the children get some recognition for the hard work they put in to learn new skills.

    The full list of sessions available can be found below;

    Future Stars Girls, Mondays 6pm (Ages 5-11) CLICK HERE – PGA
    Mini Millers, Thursdays 9:30am (Ages 18months-3) CLICK HERE – NYS
    Mini Millers, Thursdays 10:45am (Ages 18months-3) CLICK HERE – NYS
    Future Stars, Fridays 4:45pm (Ages 5-8) CLICK HERE – PGA
    Mini Millers, Saturdays 9am (Ages 2-4) CLICK HERE – PGA
    Future Stars, Saturdays 9am (Ages 5-9) CLICK HERE – PGA
    Future Stars, Saturdays 10am (10-13) CLICK HERE – PGA

    If you would like to find out more information, please contact Adam Pilgrim on 01709827767 or apilgrim@rotherhamunited.net.

  9. NEWS | Millers memorabilia sparks happy memories for elderly fan

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    A Rotherham United fan who first saw a match over seven decades ago got a surprise when her care home received a box of Millers memorabilia.

    Ann Edwards, 84, was delighted to rifle through the RUFC emblazoned mementoes when they arrived at Broadacres Care Home, on Naylor Street, Parkgate, Rotherham.

    Rotherham United Community Sports Trust sent the box as part of their “Tackling Loneliness Together” campaign – aimed at supporting over-70s to reduce or end their feelings of loneliness.

    The memorabilia box contained a 2021 calendar, mug, pen, and jersey, which Ann was quick to don when she found it. She said: “Oh I say, isn’t that marvellous.” The box sparked many fond memories for Ann, who recalled meeting her friends at Millmoor every week on matchday when she was a teenager.

    https://twitter.com/RU_CST/status/1382656781407678465

    She said: “Going to the see the matches with my friends are some of my happiest memories. Up the Millers, we would shout. Sometimes, after the matches, we would go round the back of the stadium and chat with the players.“


    As part of the campaign, the RUFC Community Sports Trust is arranging for a first team player to give Ann a video call at the home.


    Emma Schofield, health and wellbeing manager at Rotherham United Community Sports Trust, said: “Working on the EFL Trust’s Tackling Loneliness Together programme over the last eight months has been a true privilege. Being able to offer friendship, support and someone to lean on to those who are lonely or isolated is one of the most important roles we have taken on at the Trust. For people like Ann, the mention of Rotherham United sparks so many happy memories that clearly lift her spirit and take her through emotions of happiness and excitement.“

    “The opportunity to speak with a first team player is always something that excites fans and we hope it is something Ann will be telling people about for weeks afterwards. We also hope that each time Ann drinks from her mug, uses her pen, or wears her shirt, it will be an opportunity to spark those memories and happy emotions. In the words of Ann, up the Millers!”


    Lindsey Grady, home manager at Broadacres Care Home, said: “We’d like to say a big thank you to the Rotherham United Community Sports Trust for sending the memorabilia box. Ann was absolutely delighted to look through the items and put on the shirt. It sparked many happy memories for her, from her younger years attending games with her friends. We’re all very much looking forward to the call from the first team player. We can’t wait to see who it will be.”

    For more information on RUCST’s Tackling Loneliness campaign, click HERE or email health@rotherhamunited.net

  10. NEWS | Youth and Employability Hub proves to be successful in March

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    Rotherham United Community Sports Trust’s new Youth, community and Employability Hub has successfully provided 193 young people with vital employability skills in March 2021.

    The Youth Hub was launched in partnership with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), with the aim to help improve employment outcomes and prospects for unemployed individuals and groups who face complex barriers to work. The Youth Hub at the AESSEAL New York stadium was created as part of the UK Government’s 2021 £30bn plan for jobs.

    RUCST’s Youth and Employability Hub has helped to secure a huge total of 54 new jobs for local young people. We have also successfully delivered 193 action plans that have enabled young people aged 19-24 to create a clear career plan, giving them motivation to find a way forward.  

    These action plans were produced specifically to the needs of each young person, taking into consideration their health and wellbeing, transport access and any potential financial issues that they may face.

    Support from RUCST’s Youth Hub included help with writing CV’s, practice mock interviews, referrals for courses, voluntary work, referrals to business start-ups and apprenticeships (including Kickstart). RUCST also sent out a fortnightly newsletter to 264 young people to provide them up to date information with the provision and opportunities that were available for them to access through the DWP. RUCST also assisted young people to access other local providers in Rotherham.

    The DWP has stated that they have been incredibly pleased with the achievements of the Youth Hub in Rotherham, and are sharing this good practice with other hubs in Doncaster and Sheffield.

    RUCST’s Employability officer Sandra Greatorex said: “In the last 3 months we have been extremely busy contacting young people that needed help and support to get into employment. Each individual was a pleasure to work with, and we had brilliant experiences with finding out about their amazing aspirations for their future. We’ve worked hard to support these local young people, and it is extremely rewarding when we find out they’ve been successful and got a job”.

    This brilliant work will be continued, as RUCST will be launching ‘Career One Stop’ in May, where local young people can meet up and obtain further support from different local providers to help them to progress into employment.

  11. Job vacancy | Inclusion & Diversity Officer

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    Rotherham United are seeking to appoint an enthusiastic, charismatic and dedicated person to work within its expanding Community Sports Trust with a specific focus on engaging with Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic residents.

    The Covid-19 pandemic has both highlighted and exacerbated the inequalities faced by Black and Minority Ethnic communities. We are looking for a Inclusion & Diversity Officer who has experience in community engagement and who can manage and coordinate a diverse range of activities that will support Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic adults 19+ to move closer to employment and/or improve physical and mental wellbeing.

    This is a new position and reflects the Trusts commitment to building a fairer and more representative organisation which offers accessible and culturally relevant provision across our communities.

    This person will have a passion for equality and will contribute to ensuring the Trust is inclusive, diverse and promoting cohesion in all aspects of our work. 

    Job Role:  Inclusion & Diversity Officer
    Hours:  37.5 hours per week
    Salary: £21,000.00-23,000.00
    Contract: 12 month fixed term

    How to apply:
    Download application form here 
    Download Job Description here

    Closing date: 16th of April 2021, 12noon. 
    Interview date: TBC

    Please send a copy of your job application to jobs@rotherhamunited.net, if you require any more information please contact Jamie, Head of Community at Jnoble@rotherhamunited.net.

    This job description is not to be regarded as exclusive or exhaustive. It is intended as an outline indication of the areas of activity and will be amended in light of the changing needs of Rotherham United Community Sports Trust. Employment is subject to the provision of proof of eligibility to work in the UK.

    RUCST is committed to safeguarding and promoting welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expects all staff to share this commitment.

    As part of this commitment to providing a safe environment for our young people, we require all candidates to undertake and return a satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate. RUCST will assist with the application for, and pay for the process of, a new DBS for staff members where required.

    Criminal Records Disclosures

    We recognise the contribution that former or ex-offenders can make as an employee; a person’s criminal record will not, in itself, debar that person from being appointed to this post. Candidates will be given the opportunity to provide us with information on their criminal record, which will be treated in the strictest confidence. Suitable applicants will not be refused posts because of any offences which are not relevant to the role and which do not make them a risk in the role for which they are applying.

    Equal Opportunities

  12. Job vacancy | Vocational Education Officer

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    Rotherham United are seeking to appoint a highly motivated and passionate Vocational Education Officer to work within its expanding Community Sports Trust.

    In response to the emerging challenges that our community faces as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Trust are looking to recruit a Vocational Education Officer to coordinate and deliver a range of employability programmes in partnership with the English Football League Trust and the DWP. This role has been developed to help people within Rotherham access support and training to secure employment opportunities or reskill for alternative careers.

    This person will be passionate about supporting people in their journey into employment through further education. The programmes will provide an opportunity for unemployed people in Rotherham to access training and work experience to enable them to gain the skills and confidence to gain employment. The post holder will therefore have a broad range of experience in building relationships with individuals from a range of backgrounds, alongside an ability to build and maintain relationships with employers.

    Job Role:  Vocational Education Officer
    Hours:  37.5 hours per week
    Salary: £21,000.00-23,000.00
    Contract: Permanent subject to annual targets

    How to apply:
    Download application form here 
    Download Job Description here

    Closing date: 23rd of April 2021, 12noon. 
    Interview date: TBC

    Please send a copy of your job application to jobs@rotherhamunited.net, if you require any more information please contact James, Education Manager at Jmahoney@rotherhamunited.net.

    This job description is not to be regarded as exclusive or exhaustive. It is intended as an outline indication of the areas of activity and will be amended in light of the changing needs of Rotherham United Community Sports Trust. Employment is subject to the provision of proof of eligibility to work in the UK.

    RUCST is committed to safeguarding and promoting welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expects all staff to share this commitment.

    As part of this commitment to providing a safe environment for our young people, we require all candidates to undertake and return a satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate. RUCST will assist with the application for, and pay for the process of, a new DBS for staff members where required.

    Criminal Records Disclosures

    We recognise the contribution that former or ex-offenders can make as an employee; a person’s criminal record will not, in itself, debar that person from being appointed to this post. Candidates will be given the opportunity to provide us with information on their criminal record, which will be treated in the strictest confidence. Suitable applicants will not be refused posts because of any offences which are not relevant to the role and which do not make them a risk in the role for which they are applying.

    Equal Opportunities

  13. GIRLS FOOTBALL | ‘Weetabix Wildcats’ sessions launched with RUCST

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    Is your daughter aged 5-11 and interested in playing football in a fun and friendly environment? If so, look no further! Weetabix Wildcats is the place to be.

    These sessions are all about making new friends and trying something new in a sociable, non-competitive environment. Weetabix Wildcats is designed for girls who want to give football a go for the very first time or want to play with other girls their own age. Most importantly, Weetabix Wildcats is all about having loads of fun and meeting new friends.

    To book on to our first session on Wednesday 14th April, click here or email mwhite@rotherhamunited.net . The session will run from 6pm-7pm at Ruby Cook Recreation Ground, Flanderwell Lane, S66 4DL.

  14. NEWS | Mature Millers receive extra funding in aim to combat social isolation

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    The Mature Millers Walking Football Association are delighted to have received £5000 from South
    Yorkshire’s Community Foundation to allow them to support current and new older adults in getting
    active and reducing social isolation.


    The Mature Millers Walking Football Association will use the money to meet twice per week for a
    game of walking football followed by the chance for a coffee and a good catch up. The sessions are
    open to those aged 50+ and are a great way to continue your love of the beautiful game.


    Whilst the game is a little slower than regular football, don’t be fooled by the term ‘walking
    football’. The players still get quite a sweat on and it’s certainly a chance for your team spirit and
    competitive side to shine through. With separate sessions for males and females the project will give
    the opportunity for people to continue playing football, return to the game, or even give it a go for
    the first time.

    Session details can be seen below:
    Male
    Mondays
    11.45am-12.45pm
    Parkgate Astro
    Starting Monday 12th April


    Female
    Thursdays
    6.00pm-7.00pm
    Parkgate Astro
    Starting 15th April

    More sessions to be added in May 2021.


    Club Secretary Chris Baker said:
    “At the Mature Miller’s WFC we are so grateful to the SYCF and the financial contributors for helping
    us continue and grow the walking football community. The mental and physical benefits are
    immense, so get up from your sofa and join us!”.


    What are you waiting for? To book a place contact health@rotherhamunited.net or call 01709
    827767.

  15. NEWS | Limited places remaining for summer return of Fit Millers programme

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    Rotherham United Community Sports Trust are once again providing supporters with a platform to get healthy ahead of the summer through their popular Fit Millers programme which begins again in May.

    Are you aged 35-65 and want to tackle your weight? Make a change in the company of like-minded Millers this summer by enrolling for a 13-week fitness journey this May as part of our Fit Millers programme – all whilst doing so at the club’s home at AESSEAL New York Stadium!

    The club will be running programmes for both men and women this year which kick off on 20th May and 17th May respectively and still have limited places available should you wish to sign up.

    The project is derived from the EFL’s Fit Fans initiative and uses interest in football to attract adults aged 35-65 to a 13-week healthy lifestyle multi component programme delivered by coaching staff at their local professional football club charity.

    Lockdown has been tough for us all and you won’t be the only one who has put on a few extra pounds throughout the last 12 months, however, Fit Millers will bring together others in a similar situation and those looking to generally just get fitter.

    The programme aims to help football fans achieve significant long-term improvements in weight loss, physical activity, diet and psychological wellbeing.

    The men’s programme gets under way on Thursday 20th May 2021 with sessions running from 6pm until 7:30pm, whilst the women’s kicks off on Monday 17th May 2021 and also runs from 6pm until 7:30pm.

    If you are interested and would like to sign up please email fitmillers@rotherhamunited.net or health@rotherhamunited.net

    Places are free to and are available on a first-come-first-served basis.

    Rotherham United Community Sports Trust’s Health Co-ordinator Ryan Canadine explained that he is looking forward to welcoming physical groups back to AESSEAL New York Stadium and the opportunity to bring people together with a common goal of getting fitter this summer.

    Ryan said: “It will be fantastic to see groups of both men and women back together for the latest Fit Millers programme”.  

    “Whether you’re looking to shift a bit of lockdown weight or generally just improve your overall health and wellbeing, Fit Millers provides a comfortable and positive social environment to do just that. 

    “We are all here with the common goal of improving our mental and physical wellbeing and the togetherness that has come about as a result of these groups in the past has really helped individuals within them to push on and achieve their targets. 

    “The groups have already proven to be incredibly popular again this year and whilst we do have places left, they are limited, so if you want to join us in May, make sure you get your names down at the earliest possible opportunity. 

    “I look forward to meeting participants new and old this summer as we look towards returning to a more ‘normal’ way of life.” 

  16. NEWS | RUCST recruit young people through the Kickstart Scheme

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    Rotherham United Community Sports Trust  (RUCST) take advantage of the governments Kickstart Scheme in partnership with the English Football League Trust and Job Centre Plus.

    RUCST first recruit, Laura has started her Kickstart journey this week, joining the team as an Administration Assistant.

    Laura Boulding is 22 years old, last year she completed a 3 year degree studying photography and media. Progressing into employment, she began her role as a Care Worker, providing personal and domestic care within her community. Despite extremely enjoying it, she left after 3 months due to instability in the pay. From this role she ended up unemployed for 6 months.  She was referred by her Work Coach to Sandra Greatorex, Employability & Skills Officer at Rotherham United CST to undertake an Information, Advice & Guidance session and produce an action plan. This helped with different resources and made her think of different outlets e.g. volunteering. Creating an action plan also provided a clear focus for the meetings with her Work Coach. Laura was made aware by her Work Coach of the Kickstart vacancy at Rotherham United CST as an Administration Assistant. She had mixed emotions of nervousness and excitement once an interview was offered as she really wanted the job. This would enable Laura to gain the experience she required to progress her career in an office environment. Laura was successful, despite having no previous experience within administration. Two weeks later she started her new employment.

    Gary Bricknell, Operations Manager at RUCST said “We are delighted to have appointed Laura through our Kickstart Scheme, She has various transferable skills that will provide the trust with much needed support over the next 6 months. Laura will hopefully be the first of many young people we support through this initiative”.

    If you require any more information, please contact community@rotherhamunited.net or 01709827767.

  17. JOB VACANCY | Diverse Communities Engagement Officer

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    Rotherham United are seeking to appoint an Innovative and charismatic person to work within its expanding Community Sports Trust with a specific focus on engaging with Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic residents.

    The Covid-19 pandemic has both highlighted and exacerbated the inequalities faced by Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. We are looking for a Diverse Communities Engagement Officer who has experience in community engagement and who can plan and deliver a diverse range of activities that will support Black, Asian and minority ethnic adults 19+ (and their families) to move closer to employment and/or improve physical and mental wellbeing.

    This person will have a passion for equality and will contribute to ensuring the Trust is inclusive, diverse and promoting cohesion in all aspects of our work. 

    Job Role:  Diverse Communities Engagement Officer
    Hours:  37.5 hours per week
    Salary: £21,000.00

    How to apply:
    Download application form here
    Download Job Description here

    Closing date: 9th of April 2021, 12noon. 
    Interview date: TBC

    Please send a copy of your job application to jobs@rotherhamunited.net, if you require any more information please contact Jamie, Head of Community at Jnoble@rotherhamunited.net.

    This job description is not to be regarded as exclusive or exhaustive. It is intended as an outline indication of the areas of activity and will be amended in light of the changing needs of Rotherham United Community Sports Trust. Employment is subject to the provision of proof of eligibility to work in the UK.

    RUCST is committed to safeguarding and promoting welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expects all staff to share this commitment.

    As part of this commitment to providing a safe environment for our young people, we require all candidates to undertake and return a satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate. RUCST will assist with the application for, and pay for the process of, a new DBS for staff members where required.

    Criminal Records Disclosures

    We recognise the contribution that former or ex-offenders can make as an employee; a person’s criminal record will not, in itself, debar that person from being appointed to this post. Candidates will be given the opportunity to provide us with information on their criminal record, which will be treated in the strictest confidence. Suitable applicants will not be refused posts because of any offences which are not relevant to the role and which do not make them a risk in the role for which they are applying.

    Equal Opportunities

  18. NEWS | Joe Mattock speaks to Greasbrough Primary students as part of the Primary Stars initiative

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    Rotherham United Community Sports Trust have supported Greasbrough primary school by hosting a sports day in order to raise funds for their school.

    The Trust were able to support the school with their fundraising efforts through the Premier League Primary Stars Sports day Programme. 

    In preparation for the sports day, Rotherham United defender Joe Mattock spoke to the pupils via zoom in order to offer tips on how to stay motivated and be the best version of themselves. He answered lots of questions prepared by the pupils about football, fitness, training and achieving their goals.

    The pupils had collected sponsorship prior to the day in order to take part in an obstacle course challenge delivered by RUCST coaches Ben Bagshaw and Jordan Mayor. All the money raised is set to go towards building an outdoor classroom, which will allow the pupils to continue to access top quality learning in a safe environment.

    A Greasbrough Primary teacher said:

    “The children thoroughly loved talking to Joe Mattock and asking questions. Jordan and Ben were stars helping us out today with the obstacle course too. Thank you for your support. It has been nice to have support back in school from the community.”

    If you’d like to get your school involved in similar projects, don’t hesitate to contact participation@rotherhamunited.net or visit our website www.rucst.co.uk for further information.

  19. NEWS | Warne shows his support for EFL’s You Vs Train Campaign

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    Rotherham United are proud to partner with the EFL trust and Network Rail to deliver the You Vs Train project for the second year running.

    The aim of this project is to raise awareness about the dangers of trespassing on railways, and how we can reduce the likelihood of any future trespassing.  

    RUCST are working directly with young people in the community in order to encourage young people to understand the dangers of the railway and the risks that they pose to themselves, their friends and their families when they step on a track.

    Rotherham United’s manager Paul Warne encourages local young people to “spread the word” in order to discourage railway trespassing. “Every year thousands of people risk their lives by stepping on the train tracks, and unfortunately these have increased during lockdown.”

    Over the last 12 months, RUCST have delivered 500 face to face awareness sessions at our partnered schools and RUCST holiday camps. We have also supplemented this learning with weekly support, reminders and activities on social media.

    Remember, everyone loses when you step on the track.

  20. PARTICIPATION | Get your School active with RUCST

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    Our sports participation department at RUCST are on a mission to increase the participation in football, sport and physical activity in schools across Rotherham.

    At RUCST, we are committed to working with children from an early age to ensure they have the opportunity to experience a range of sports and physical activities which will set them up for a longer, healthier and happier life. 

    We are passionate about helping children to create positive physical activity habits that they will carry with them into adulthood.

    Here are some of the projects we run that your school can get involved with:

    Premier League Primary Stars

    This project uses the appeal of the Premier League and professional football clubs such as RUFC in order to inspire children to learn, be active and to develop important life skills.

    Premier League Primary Stars is designed to appeal to and benefit both boys and girls from year one to six in primary schools, with age appropriate resources mapped to the national curriculum.

    Primary Stars is available to every Primary School in England and Wales, and it provides free digital resources to cover subjects from maths and English to teamwork and sport.

    School competitions range from football tournaments to reading challenges; and club delivery includes support to improve teachers’ confidence in delivering PE sessions. Premier League values underpin everything on offer, encouraging children to be ambitious, inspiring, connected and fair.

    Joy of Moving Programme

    The aim of this programme is to ‘increase movement among children across the world’.

    The Joy of Moving Programme is a key component of the Ferrero CSR programme, which has enabled us at RUCST to deliver FREE Sport and Health sessions to year 5 + 6 pupils to over 30 primary schools across Rotherham.

    The project aims to deliver key health messages to pupils in preparation for their transition to secondary school. These messages help to provide them with a wealth of knowledge around nutrition/healthy eating, the human body, general health, sport and exercise and the importance of hydration.

    If you are interested in any of the programmes listed above, or require more information on how to make bookings, don’t hesitate to contact us at participation@rotherhamunited.net or visit our website www.rucst.co.uk .

    A successful PE session from James Marsh at Thrybergh Fullerton

    Mr Wheeler from Thrybergh Fullerton Primary School said:

    “This year has been a much more challenging year for PE in schools and the offer of virtual lessons from RUCST was very welcome as it offered a bit of variety for our children rather than the same teacher voice they had been listening to for weeks!

    The teachers whose classes accessed these online sessions were all impressed with the manner and professionalism of the delivery and engagement from the members of staff at RUCST.

    Each teacher praised the manner that James Marsh (School Sport Co-ordinator at RUCST) had with the children, and they expressed how engaging and fun the sessions were for their pupils.

    James Marsh’s team spirit and flexibility shone through with his fun and engaging sessions to meet the children’s needs displayed how he is an absolute credit to the organisation he represents. He has built up a brilliant relationship with the staff and students of the school.“

    one of our virtual lessons with Thrybergh Fullerton Primary School

  21. NEWS | RUCST’s Easter Holiday Camps return

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    Join us down at Parkgate Astro or Wickersley School for the return of our face-to-face Easter holiday camps!

    We are running two camps this Easter; Future Stars Football Camp and Holiday Hunger Multi-Sports camp.

    Future Stars Football Camp

    Our Future Stars football camp includes training sessions, fun games and competitions for children of any ability level.

    This camp will take place at Wickersley School from 9am – 4pm. Week 1 runs from Monday the 29th of March to Thursday the 1st of April and week 2 will run from Tuesday the 6th to Friday the 9th of April.

    This camp is for children aged between 5 and 14 years.

    Click HERE to register your interest

    Holiday Hunger Multi-Sports Camp

    This is a FREE multi-sports camp for any children aged 8-16 who receive free school meals.

    This camp will take place at Parkgate Astro from 9am – 4pm. Week 1 of this camp will also take place from Monday the 29th March – Thursday 1st April and week 2 will run from Tuesday the 5th – Friday the 9th April.

    Emma Schofield, Health and Wellbeing Manager at RUCST said:

    “We know how much children and young people across the community look forward to attending our holiday camps and we are extremely excited to get back to our face-to-face delivery.  After such a fantastic response to our Christmas and half-term camps it was important that we continued to offer the option to get active and have fun as well as the support with fresh, healthy food during the school holidays.”

    Click HERE to register your interest

    For more information email participation@rotherhamunited.net or call 01709 827767

  22. NEWS | Virtual Player Hangouts postponed due to Covid-19 outbreak

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    It is with huge regret that this week’s Virtual Player Hangout will be postponed due to the Covid-19 infections within the first team bubble.

    As a club, we are committed to utilising our players for our fans’ benefit, but at this time the players’ health, safety and wellbeing comes first as they isolate and recover from the virus.

    The Virtual Player hangouts will continue as normal in the following weeks upon the completion of their isolation periods.

  23. HEALTH | No Smoking Day: Quitting Doesn’t Have to be Stressful with Fit Millers

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    On No Smoking day 2021, why not sign up to Fit Millers to take control of your physical and mental wellbeing and make positive lifestyle changes with us at RUCST. 

    Stopping smoking is one of the single biggest decisions you can make to living a healthier life. You can quit smoking at any time and even if you’ve smoked all your life, you will see significant improvements to your health within 48 hours of quitting. No Smoking day is on the 10th of March this year. 

    Fit Millers can provide support for quitters who are concerned about putting on weight after quitting, or for motivated people who want to change their lifestyles. This campaign can provide you with lifestyle advice and our partners at Get Healthy Rotherham can offer further support to help people in the community stop smoking. 

    At Fit Millers each week we work through 45 minutes of discussion topics on lifestyle changes such as healthy eating, activity levels, hydration and alcohol consumption followed by 45 minutes of physical activity. The activity sessions are tailored to those new to exercise, or those who have been out of the swing of things for a while. 

    All of us have less control over our lives than we’d like at the moment, but why not begin to take some positive control on No Smoking Day. Smokers- cease this opportunity to look forward to happier, smokefree future! 

    Make the first step of your quitting journey by clicking here: https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/  

    Click here to register your interest in Fit Millers: https://www.rucst.co.uk/health-wellbeing/fit-millers/  

  24. NEWS | Women’s Football- ‘Have Your Say, Play Your Way’

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    If you are female, aged 16 and above and live in the areas of Sheffield & Rotherham, Sheffield FA (SHCFA) invites you to ‘Have Your Say, Play Your Way’. To do this, they are asking you to take part in a survey: https://bit.ly/3kIhNdW and possibly a conversation with them around what your perfect activity or football session would look like.

    With SHCFA’s recent announcement of a newly appointed Women’s Recreational Football Officer comes an exciting opportunity to build up the foundations of female recreational football in the area. They are looking to support existing football sessions to help get more people involved, as well as work with the community to create sessions that females want to take part in.

    The key to making that happen is being able to hear the voices of the community and the females that would be taking part in the sessions. To do this SHCFA have created; ‘Have Your Say, Play Your Way’, and over the next month will be working with partners, the community and using social media to spread the word about the consultation that they’re doing.

    By taking part in the survey you are increasing the likelihood that there will be a session put on near you, that works for you and is essentially ‘your perfect session’. You will also be in with the chance to win £50 worth of vouchers for a store/s of your choice.

    You can find the survey here: https://bit.ly/3kIhNdW and we ask that you share it with your female friends, family and colleagues so that we can really reach a variety of different women.

    https://twitter.com/RU_CST/status/1369223310379221002

    If you would be interested in leading a recreational session or joining a current session, please get in touch with Sara on Sara.Harnett@SheffieldFA.com or 07805 683784.

  25. NEWS | RUCST distribute 200 free books to local school pupils to celebrate World Book Day

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    Rotherham United Community Sports Trust have given 200 free, brand new books to 4 primary schools in their local area to support young readers as part of an exciting partnership between the Premier League and the National Literacy Trust to celebrate World Book Day. In total, nearly 25,000 free books will be given away to children who need them most.

    Pupils taking part in the Premier League Primary Stars education programme, delivered by professional football club community organisations across England and Wales, will each receive a free copy of Football School: 20 Fantastic Football Stories. The book, by authors Alex Bellos and Ben Lyttleton, is also a £1 World Book Day title.

    National Literacy Trust research has found that children who have their own books are nearly three times more likely to enjoy reading. The partnership will help support children whose access to physical books has been made difficult due to school and public library closures during the national lockdown.

    RUCST’s Participation Manager Emma Schofield said: “Reading is such a key skill, its something we do countless times a day, often without even realising we are doing it.  It’s also a great way to escape and experience fun and adventure. Being able to get lost in a book is especially important at the moment when we don’t have many other options. We hope that pupils across Rotherham had a fab time taking part in this mornings online quiz and we cant wait to hear about the stories you will be reading in your new books.”

    To further support pupils on World Book Day, the National Literacy Trust will host a fun-filled Premier League Primary Stars Facebook Live event, featuring the authors of the Football School title being distributed, Alex Bellos and Ben Lyttleton. The one-hour event will include a quiz featuring a special round of questions set by players from the Premier League, the EFL and the Women’s Super League.

    Jim Sells, Sport and Literacy Programme Manager at the National Literacy Trust said: “World Book Day promotes reading for pleasure to improve all children’s life chances, and we are so pleased to support the charity behind the initiative. We know that children who have books at home do better in school, so we are delighted to be able to distribute such an incredible number of books to schools across the country with the help of the community organisations. I’d also like to thank our partners at Walker Books and the Morrisons Foundation for making this possible.”

    “I’m also very excited for the Facebook Live event with Kenzie Benali, Ben Lyttleton and Alex Bellos, three brilliantly energetic personalities who inspire children to get into reading through their love of football.”

    For more information, follow RUCST on social media or email participation@rotherhamunited.net

  26. NEWS | Win a signed RUFC shirt by completing the ‘More than Just Football’ survey

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    Take five minutes out of your day to be in with a chance of winning a signed home or away RUFC shirt! 

    One signed home shirt and one signed away shirt are up for grabs for two lucky millers fans; all you have to do to enter is fill in the ‘More than Just Football’ survey by clicking HERE.  

    This survey asks a few questions about physical activity and football. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a football fanatic or if you feel like you don’t have time for physical activity at all- we welcome responses from everyone! We are eager to hear from a range of voices in the community including yours!  

    The data you provide us with may be used to support our Active Through Football bid. If successful, this bid could provide funding to help us to develop ways to engage the communities of Rotherham in physical activities and/or football. Any published responses will be kept anonymous.

    This survey takes less than five minutes to complete. Your responses will help the club and the community, whilst giving you a chance to win an official player-signed RUFC shirt. 

    For any more information please contact:

    lisa.moseley@yorkshiresport.org or participation@rotherhamunited.net

  27. JOB VACANCY | Female Football and Wellbeing Coach

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    Rotherham United Community Sports Trust are seeking to appoint an enthusiastic, charismatic and dedicated individual to join our Health & Wellbeing Team.

    We are a diverse Trust that respects differences in race, disability, gender, faith background or personal circumstances we welcome all application. We want everyone to feel valued and included in the football community and to achieve their full potential. The trust is opposed to any discrimination and commits itself to the redress of any inequalities by taking positive action where appropriate.

    Job Role:  Female Football and Wellbeing Coach
    Hours:  37.5 hours per week
    Salary: £18,500.00

    Closing date: 15th of March 2021, 5pm. 
    Interview date: TBC

    How to apply:
    Download Job Description here

    Please send a copy of your CV to eschofield@rotherhamunited.net, if you require any more information please contact Emma, Health & Wellbeing Manager at eschofield@rotherhamunited.net.

    This job description is not to be regarded as exclusive or exhaustive. It is intended as an outline indication of the areas of activity and will be amended in light of the changing needs of Rotherham United Community Sports Trust. Employment is subject to the provision of proof of eligibility to work in the UK.

    RUCST is committed to safeguarding and promoting welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expects all staff to share this commitment.

    As part of this commitment to providing a safe environment for our young people, we require all candidates to undertake and return a satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate. RUCST will assist with the application for, and pay for the process of, a new DBS for staff members where required.

    Criminal Records Disclosures

    We recognise the contribution that former or ex-offenders can make as an employee; a person’s criminal record will not, in itself, debar that person from being appointed to this post. Candidates will be given the opportunity to provide us with information on their criminal record, which will be treated in the strictest confidence. Suitable applicants will not be refused posts because of any offences which are not relevant to the role and which do not make them a risk in the role for which they are applying.

    Equal Opportunities

  28. JOB VACANCY | Schools and Sports Participation Manager

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    Rotherham United Community Sports Trust are seeking to appoint an enthusiastic, charismatic and dedicated individual to join our Senior Management Team.

    We are a diverse Trust that respects differences in race, disability, gender, faith background or personal circumstances we welcome all application. We want everyone to feel valued and included in the football community and to achieve their full potential. The trust is opposed to any discrimination and commits itself to the redress of any inequalities by taking positive action where appropriate.

    Job Role:  Schools and Sports Participation Manager
    Hours:  37.5 hours per week
    Salary: £27,000.00-£30,000.00

    How to apply:
    Download application form here 
    Download Job Description here

    Closing date: 26th of March 2021, 12noon. 
    Interview date: TBC

    Please send a copy of your job application to jobs@rotherhamunited.net, if you require any more information please contact Jamie, Head of Community at Jnoble@rotherhamunited.net.

    This job description is not to be regarded as exclusive or exhaustive. It is intended as an outline indication of the areas of activity and will be amended in light of the changing needs of Rotherham United Community Sports Trust. Employment is subject to the provision of proof of eligibility to work in the UK.

    RUCST is committed to safeguarding and promoting welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expects all staff to share this commitment.

    As part of this commitment to providing a safe environment for our young people, we require all candidates to undertake and return a satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate. RUCST will assist with the application for, and pay for the process of, a new DBS for staff members where required.

    Criminal Records Disclosures

    We recognise the contribution that former or ex-offenders can make as an employee; a person’s criminal record will not, in itself, debar that person from being appointed to this post. Candidates will be given the opportunity to provide us with information on their criminal record, which will be treated in the strictest confidence. Suitable applicants will not be refused posts because of any offences which are not relevant to the role and which do not make them a risk in the role for which they are applying.

    Equal Opportunities

  29. FUTURE STARS | Free online Fitness and Ball Mastery sessions with RUCST

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    Keep fit with RUCST and sign up now to join in with our free fitness and ball mastery sessions via Zoom!

    We are providing these fitness sessions every weekend for the remaining Sundays of the current lockdown to keep children active whilst they can’t play grassroots football.

    The sessions run on Sundays from 10am-11:30am; and they include a 30 minute HIIT workout, 10 minutes of rest and 45 minutes of ball mastery.

    The HIIT part of the session includes bodyweight exercises that work various muscle groups in the body at a high intensity.

    The ball mastery section will include several movements and skills that will help children to develop their first touch on the ball and their overall relationship with the ball. This will therefore help children to become more comfortable in moving and manipulating the ball whilst developing their co-ordination skills at the same time.

    This is a session aimed at children between 5 and 13 years old of any ability level, and is a great way to keep children fit and developing their skills while grassroots football is postponed.

    All of the session is designed for participants to be able to take part in a small space in their home, or in a garden. There must be an adult present/within earshot of the session at all times.

    If you are interested in signing up for these sessions, please register with your child’s name and age by e-mailing apilgrim@rotherhamunited.net

  30. NEWS | Football fans urged to put their rivalries aside in pandemic by signing for ‘Plasma FC’

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    Rotherham United is one of 11 football clubs that are joining forces to back a new team – ‘Plasma FC’ – as part of an NHS Blood and Transplant campaign urging fans who’ve had COVID-19 to register as blood plasma donors. 

    This NHS campaign asks fans who’ve had COVID-19 to sign up to ‘Plasma FC’ to support treatment research. Plasma from those who’ve had coronavirus contains antibodies that could help others fight the virus and is being collected by NHSBT to support research into new treatments. 

    Rotherham United are joined by fellow Championship clubs QPR, Blackburn Rovers (Community Trust), Sheffield Wednesday, and Watford, and League One clubs, Northampton Town and Portsmouth. The Premier League clubs that are asking their fans to #BeTheDifference are: Leicester City, Crystal Palace, Wolverhampton Wanderers (Foundation) and Brighton & Hove Albion. 

    Fans can support Plasma FC by following your club’s social media channels and sharing the Plasma FC film via #BeTheDifference. To sign up, anyone aged over 17 years who has tested positive for COVID-19 or had symptoms can register online to donate plasma at www.nhsbt.nhs.uk. 

    Plasma FC is particularly appealing for men, black and Asian donors, and those who received hospital care for the virus to join its ranks. Their plasma is more likely to contain the high levels of antibodies needed to donate. 

    Jamie Noble – Head of Community at Rotherham United Community Sports Trust said: 

    “We see first-hand the impact the virus has had on the community. Not only those who have contracted the virus, but for everyone unable to attend activities, socialise or watch their beloved Rotherham United in action. We are keen to support any initiative that will help put an end to this awful pandemic.” 

    Elizabeth Hillerby, Marketing Manager from NHS Blood and Transplant said:  

    “We’re incredibly grateful to the thousands of people who have donated plasma to support research into new treatments for COVID-19. We need more people to register as donors to support further studies which could help vulnerable groups, such as older people and those with weak immune systems. The high infection rates mean more people than ever are now able to help.” 

    Donating is easy – it takes just 45 minutes and the whole appointment, including time for snacks, lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Donations are being taken at NHSBT’s 23 blood donor centres and a further 20 pop-up plasma donor centres. Your body quickly replaces the donated plasma and donated antibodies. 

    People can register to donate online at www.nhsbt.nhs.uk or search ‘donate plasma’. 

  31. NEWS | The Joy of Moving Programme launches a virtual ‘Winter Games’

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    Following a successful virtual Joy of Moving Home School Festival in the summer of 2020 where over 250,000 children got involved, Rotherham United Community Sports Trust is partnering with the EFL Trust and Ferrero to launch a new virtual ‘Winter Games’ pack which will help inspire children to get moving in the toughest months for activity levels.

    Research shows that children’s activity levels drop significantly in the winter months compared to the summer months (68 mins in summer vs 48 mins per day in winter). To help inspire families to get active at home during the winter months, the Joy of Moving ‘Winter Games’ will take families on a Winter Adventure, with an exciting selection of games and activities that they can play at home.

    The games, which have been developed in line with the Joy of Moving methodology, are suitable for all abilities and help to encourage children to get moving through play.

    Throughout February, the Joy of Moving virtual ‘Winter Games’ will be shared with families and teachers across the country with the help of over 70 EFL Trust Club Community Organisations.

    As schools remain closed for many children, the ‘Winter Games’ supports families at a crucial time when it is even more important for children to stay active and to achieve the recommended 60 minutes of activity each day.

    Claire Robertson, JOM lead at RUCST said:

    “We are delighted to have so many schools taking part in the JOM winter games. Things are tough for children and young people at the moment so it’s great to know we can provide them with something fun and active”

    The Joy of Moving programme is an unbranded CSR project by Ferrero. Together with the EFL Trust, the Joy of Moving programme has been supporting children to get active across EFL Communities for over seven years. The Joy of Moving programme is based on methodology which is designed to inspire children to move through play, and in doing so, build up their physical fitness, motor coordination, cognitive functions and creativity and life skills – helping to develop positive habits for adulthood.

    In the UK, the programme consists of two in-school elements – the Move & Learn programme and the Joy of Moving Festivals, which have been developed in conjunction with EFL Trust. While these are on pause in line with temporary school closures, we are supporting the communities with access to free, online digital materials via our resource hub.

    Keep an eye out for the hashtag #JOMWinterGames on social media for further updates and ways to get involved, and for more fun games to play, visit the online Resource Hub.

    Click on the icons below for more information

  32. JOB VACANCY | Health and Wellbeing Activities Coach

    Leave a Comment

    Rotherham United Community Sports Trust is seeking to appoint an enthusiastic, charismatic and dedicated person to deliver a range of health and wellbeing programmes to children, young people, adults and older adults across the borough.

    We are a diverse Trust that respects differences in race, disability, gender, faith background or personal circumstances we welcome all application. We want everyone to feel valued and included in the football community and to achieve their full potential. The trust is opposed to any discrimination and commits itself to the redress of any inequalities by taking positive action where appropriate.

    Job Role:  Health and Wellbeing Activities Coach
    Hours:  30 hours per week
    Salary: £18,500 FTE

    View Job description here
    View Job Advertisement here

    How to apply:
    Please email CV and cover letter to:
    Emma Schofield- Health & Wellbeing Manager eschofield@rotherhamunited.net

    Closing date: 26th of February 2021, 5pm. 
    Interview date: TBC

    This job description is not to be regarded as exclusive or exhaustive. It is intended as an outline indication of the areas of activity and will be amended in light of the changing needs of Rotherham United Community Sports Trust. Employment is subject to the provision of proof of eligibility to work in the UK.

    RUCST is committed to safeguarding and promoting welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expects all staff to share this commitment.

    As part of this commitment to providing a safe environment for our young people, we require all candidates to undertake and return a satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate. RUCST will assist with the application for, and pay for the process of, a new DBS for staff members where required.

    Criminal Records Disclosures

    We recognise the contribution that former or ex-offenders can make as an employee; a person’s criminal record will not, in itself, debar that person from being appointed to this post. Candidates will be given the opportunity to provide us with information on their criminal record, which will be treated in the strictest confidence. Suitable applicants will not be refused posts because of any offences which are not relevant to the role and which do not make them a risk in the role for which they are applying.

    Equal Opportunities

  33. NEWS | Safer Internet Day: How to be Safer Online

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    Kev Johnson from Rotherham United’s official IT partners Newfox and Hollinbay gives us his top tips on how to stay safe on the Internet.

    Today is Safer Internet Day, where we are exploring the reliability of the online world and focussing on how we can know what to trust online. Today we are encouraging young people to engage with us and listen to how to question, challenge and change the online world.

    At RUCST, we are also celebrating this day in order to explore how the Internet’s influence, persuasion and manipulation can impact young people’s decisions, opinions and change the content they share online.

    Newfox and Hollinbay are helping us to give young people the skills to support one and other by teaching them strategies to spot and speak out against harmful and misleading content online.

    Watch Kev’s tip video here:

    Click on the links below to follow us on social media to keep up to date with us today.

  34. NEWS | Wood shows his support for Safer Internet Day

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    Club captain Richard Wood expresses his support for Safer Internet Day by telling RUCST how important it is to keep children safe on the internet.

    Today is Safer Internet Day, and this is celebrated in order to promote the safe, responsible and positive use of the Internet for children and young people.

    Safer Internet Day aims to raise awareness to how the internet can sometimes be harmful; and it inspires a national conversation about how to use technology responsibly, respectfully, critically and creatively.

    Richard Wood says his two boys are “coping really well” with the transition from normal school to online school, and that he is “pleased with how well they’re getting on with their work, it is so good to see them trying their best, even though they’re not used to it”.

    When we asked him how he keeps his sons safe on the internet, he said:

    “I use screentime, as both of my sons have iPads and this is really useful for setting up restrictions for certain apps they can use and how long they can use them for. I also have restrictions set up for internet content under my passwords to keep them safe”.

    Keep an eye on our social media platforms today for our hourly top safety tips and quizzes for ages 3-18.

  35. NEWS | RUCST Launch Plastic Bottle Recycling Campaign

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    Rotherham United Community Sports Trust are delighted to have launched a plastic bottle collection initiative in partnership with KCM Waste Management and MGB/Straight (part of IPL); in order to create a greener and more sustainable environment within the football club and the local community.

    This project involves the collection of all single-use plastic drinks bottles from the pitch-side and the changing rooms on all match days at the New York Stadium. RUCST have launched this initiative as part of the #iwillweek campaign, as this project envisions that: “all children and young people should be supported and empowered to make a positive difference on the issues that affect their lives, their communities, and broader society”.

    This initiative was launched in December 2020 and since then we have already collected and recycled an astounding 800 single use plastic bottles from 5 home games. This has occurred alongside our clean up the community social action projects; where local young people are collecting, and recycling plastic bottles from the streets of Rotherham.

    Community Project Coordinator for RUCST Ant Bayou said:

    “we are very excited to get involved in such an eco-friendly project that not only allows our club to play our part in being more environmentally friendly; but also gets the young people of Rotherham thinking about where our waste goes and how we can be more sustainable as a club and community”

    Our partners at MGB/Straight kindly provided us with the recycling bins, and KCM Waste Management have offered us a place to dispose of all our plastic bottles in the eco-friendliest way.

    Danny Johnson, Trade Waste Manager at KCM Waste Management said:

    “Everyone is rightly concerned about our dependence on plastics and on how we deal with our plastic waste. The time has come for decisive action to ensure we only use plastics in a sustainable manner.

    Us at KCM are delighted to be working in conjunction with both RUFC and Rotherham United Community Sports Trust on the plastic recycling initiative to remove, recycle and reuse single use plastics that are discarded on match days.

    We are proud to be long-serving RUFC partners with our sponsorship of the North Stand, the player dugouts and the academy kit. These are just a few of the ways in which we have supported the club since it’s move to the AESSEAL New York Stadium in 2012.”

    At Rotherham United Community Sports Trust, we are passionate about creating positive change.

    For further information, please contact abayou@rotherhamunited.net

  36. EDUCATION | Rotherham United partner with Stoke City in order to mentor young people hit hardest by the Pandemic

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    Hundreds of young people hit hardest by the pandemic are being offered mental health and wellbeing support by Rotherham United and five other Northern football clubs to help them stay engaged in education so they can catch up on lost learning and raise their aspirations.

    Through the Government’s Opportunity Areas programme, Rotherham United have partnered with Stoke City. This programme aims to work with pupils aged 11 to 19 who are disadvantaged, vulnerable or at risk of falling out of education, employment or training.

    These schemes will give young people a way to talk through their anxieties and fears with trained mentors in one-to-one sessions at school and college, or online during the period of national restrictions, as part of the support on offer. They will help them find ways to overcome any obstacles, build their confidence and resilience so they are ready to learn and do not fall behind. Many of these pupils are vulnerable and can still attend school along with key worker children.

    Funded by the Stoke-on-Trent Opportunity Area, the pastoral support is being delivered through Stoke City’s affiliated community schemes; building on their existing outreach work which has made them a recognised brand in their community. Each football club is working with another in a different area to set up similar mentoring schemes and help even more young people.

    Minister for the Opportunity Areas Michelle Donelan said:

    “Our focus throughout the pandemic has been to protect the most vulnerable in our society, creating new opportunities that secure their future success in spite of the challenges we face as a country.

    “It is fantastic to see investment from our Opportunity Areas programme benefitting these schemes, supporting young people’s mental health and wellbeing so they are ready to catch up on lost learning and do not fall behind.

    “By sharing their resources and expertise with clubs in Fleetwood, Rotherham and Lincoln, even more secondary pupils can build life skills like confidence and resilience to tackle obstacles and thrive.”

    During the period of national restrictions, mentoring is happening face-to-face or online, ensuring the most vulnerable continue to get the support they need whether learning at home or school.

    Rotherham United Community Sports Trust has set up a mentoring scheme to support around 10 pupils who are experiencing disadvantage and as a result require additional support with their mental health which ultimately has an impact in their school attainment.

    The football clubs from outside the Opportunity Areas were chosen based on a range of criteria related to disadvantage and established relationships between clubs.

    It follows confirmation of funding allocations for the fourth year of the Opportunity Areas programme last July, including a share of £1 million specifically to support ‘twinning’ work and expand the programme’s reach. Stoke-on-Trent and Blackpool Opportunity Areas have each invested £100,000 into these football club projects.

    Jamie Noble, Head of Community at Rotherham United Community Sports Trust said:

    “we are honoured to have been chosen to partner with football clubs from across the Pennines. This scheme is a great credit to our staff and the programmes that they deliver to the communities in Rotherham. We’re incredibly passionate about being a part of the country’s football family and are proud to contribute to the collective impact that community partners of football clubs can have. Over the last 10 years we are very proud to have brought in an investment of over £10 million into Rotherham by working with national and regional organisations. This considerable amount of money has hugely benefitted the people of Rotherham.”

    The Department for Education is investing £90 million in 12 Opportunity Areas over four years with £1 million set aside to ‘twin’ with other places so they can improve outcomes and opportunities for even more young people.

    The fourth year of the programme is supporting young people hit hardest by the pandemic and work is underway to share more broadly the expertise and successes from the programme so far to help other places to overcome similar challenges.

    For more information contact education@rotherhamunited.net

  37. EDUCATION | Students Continue to Impress During Lockdown

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    Everyone at Rotherham United Community Sports Trust would like to congratulate our Further Education and Higher Education students who continue to work hard at home to continue their learning and ensure the current situation doesn’t impact their course progress.

    Tutors remain in contact with all students on a daily basis as well as delivering online classes and tutorials. Since entering the current lockdown the engagement and attendance to online lessons has been outstanding across all courses.

    The Sports College are using innovative methods to ensure the students can continue to engage with their learning alongside receiving the support they need both academically and emotionally. Last week First Team player Joe Mattock joined the Shadow Academy via Zoom to discuss his experiences and pass on some important advice to the students in regards to their education and football. This week we are looking forward to the Daparian Foundation delivering a workshop to all students around mental health, resilience, dealing with internal and external scrutiny, the pressures of expectation and dealing with failure.

    Education Manager, James Mahoney is delighted with the learners’ progress: “We are extremely proud of all our learners who continue to display an outstanding attitude towards their education despite the challenges that they are facing as a result of the latest lockdown. Learning from home can be difficult due to number of reasons and I commend their adaptability and perseverance. As well as the impact on lessons it is also hard for students who are missing the social interaction on a daily basis with their friends and the opportunity to train & play football. We are implementing various methods to try and help them through this period including; home fitness training programmes, guest speakers and competitions. I would also like to thank the Education staff team whose continued hard-work and commitment ensures our students can continue learning during these challenging times”.

    The Sports College are also still recruiting for our wide range of courses starting in September 2021. If you are interested in pursuing a career working in the sports industry and wish to continue your education into further or higher education then check out our prospectus here: Prospectus

    If you would like to apply for one of our courses starting in September 2021 you can complete the application form here: Apply Now

    For further information, please contact: education@rotherhamunited.net

  38. NEWS | Rotherham United Esports to open up Esports School

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    Rotherham United Esports has been awarded a grant from the National Lottery Awards For All charity initiative to open an ‘Esports School’.

    The initiative is aimed at tackling physical and mental-health problems caused by COVID-19 through the use of esports and gaming. 

    The organisation, which is now a ‘community interest company’ (designed for social enterprises that use profits and assets for social improvement), will give young people a ‘social and virtual gaming platform’ to improve their social skills and counter the effects of loneliness caused by national lockdowns.

    The project will offer coaching — particularly in FIFA — using gaming to help those struggling with mental-health problems. When safe, the organisation also plans to take participants that have been in isolation to physical events, including charity, football or other sporting events, as well as providing team-building and social opportunities.

    Robert Hawden, Rotherham United Esports Co-founder, said on the club’s output so far: “When we started this journey over two years ago, we never knew what we would find when scratching the surface. We found that a fair percentage of our participants had issues with health, whether it was physical health problems such as obesity, or mental-health issues such as depression and anxiety.

    “As we already work with the Rotherham United Community Sports Trust, who already do so much to improve the wellbeing of many of their participants, we’re well aware of the impact a project such as this can have, and with the help of sponsors and grant funding, we will be able to ramp up our reach and offer esports coaching and other brilliant opportunities to many others who we may not have otherwise reached.”

    Previously, the club, in partnership with the Virtual Pro Gaming League and Rotherham United Sports College, created the RUFC Development Squad. College students and other gamers were given a platform by the club to learn FIFA Pro Clubs competitively, providing a mental release and the opportunity to learn social skills.

    Fellow Co-founder David Raybould added: “I would like to say a massive thank you to the National Lottery players and everyone else who has made it possible to get us to this point. We now have a great and unique footing, in which we can combat these health problems which are affecting many. We feel the use of esports in this way will be a real game-changer and we are really looking forward to seeing this project grow and succeed.”

    Esports Insider says: This is an incredibly heart-warming initiative in a time when so many are struggling just to get through the day. We don’t yet know the full impact of national lockdowns on children, and it seems they’re often forgotten in the mental-health discussion. This is admirable work from Rotherham United Esports. All involved deserve enormous credit.

    For more information email RUFC-ESPORTS@MAIL.COM or visit @RUFCeSports on Twitter.

  39. NEWS | The Millers Half Term Virtual Holiday Camp

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    Keep active online with us at RUCST this half term!

    From Tuesday the 16th to Friday the 19th of February we are running free virtual multi-sport sessions for any boys and girls aged 8-16 who receive free school meals.

    The online sessions will include a player Q&A, multi-sports coaching sessions over zoom, free sports equipment and a free food hamper. These food hampers were generously paid for by our very own Millers players.

    The hamper collections are available from Maltby, Kiveton, Eastwood and Ferham (more details on booking).

    Book your slot here: https://www.rucst.co.uk/february-2021-online-camp/

    Sessions for ages 8-11 will run from 10-11am and sessions for ages 12-16 will then run from 11am-12pm from Tuesday until Friday.

    Emma Schofield (Health and Wellbeing Manager at RUCST) said: “We know how much children and young people across the community look forward to attending our holiday camps so we wanted to make sure we were offering something for them to get involved with, whilst also keeping them safe.  After such a fantastic response to our Christmas camps it was important that we continued to offer the option to get active and have fun as well as the support with fresh, healthy food during the school holidays.”

    We wish we could see you all in person at our usual holiday camps; but in the meantime we hope you can join us online to get active, see your friends on screen, and most of all have some fun!

    For any more information, please contact Emma Schofield at participation@rotherhamunited.net

  40. NEWS | Safer Internet Day- 9th February

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    Join RUCST online on the 9th of February to celebrate Safer Internet Day! Together we can help to create a safer and more secure online experience in 2021 for us all.

    Safer Internet day 2021 celebrates the incredible range of information and opportunities that are available to us all online, and how the web has potential to inform, connect and inspire us.

    We will be looking at how to tell fact from fiction online, and how to challenge and question information that we come across.

    Keep an eye on our social media platforms (Twitter: @RU_CST and Facebook: Rotherham United Community Sports Trust) on the 9th for our hourly top safety tips and quizzes for ages 3-18. This is where you will also find more information on how to join our online lesson on safer internet tasks.

    There may even be a surprise virtual appearance from one of the first team players… so be safe, and get involved online on the 9th!

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    For more information on Safer Internet Day, please visit: https://www.saferinternetday.org/ or email: participation@rotherhamunited.net

  41. NEWS | Lockdown Update

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    We at Rotherham United Community Sports trust understand the frustrations that a further national lockdown brings, not only the local community but nationally; there are many uncertainties that lay ahead however, to all of our key partners, staff, participants, friends, families and local communities we urge you to follow the national guidance.

    In the coming days we will be communicating with governing bodies to establish how we can continue to support out local communities in the most efficient but safest way possible.

    Although this is an uncertain time, we will remain here for you throughout and there will still be a number of programmes or activities you can get involved with. We will release further details over the coming days on our social media platforms. In the meantime, we can provide a brief update and contact details for relevant departments.

    Rotherham United Sports College – Our education provision continues through home learning – if you wish to find out more information or enquire about the 2021/22 courses, please contact education@rotherhamunited.net.    

    Health & Wellbeing team – We continue to support the local community online, to find out what provision is available please contact health@rotherhamunited.net.   

    Sport Participation team – unfortunately our Future Stars sessions have halted, however we are reviewing the schools packages and how we can further support them and the hard working teaches during these uncertain times. To find our more information, please contact participation@rotherhamunited.net.   

    NCS team – We are working alongside their partners to identify the next steps for their projects in 2021.for more information please contact ncs@rotherhamunited.net.

    Inclusion Team – Our Kicks and YOYO sessions have stopped, however we are looking to re-establish our online presence and provide support to young people remotely. We are continuing our support to the vulnerable and out Ability Counts sessions can continue, albeit at a different venue. If you would like to find out more information, please contact inclusion@rotherhamunited.net.   

    Parkgate Astro – Unfortunately Parkgate Astro has closed. All bookings have been cancelled and PAYG payments stopped. All pre-paid bookings will be carried forward until restrictions ease. For more information, please contact parkgateastro@rotherhamunited.net.

    Once again, thank you for the continued support over the last 9 months. Please stay safe and adhere to government guidance.

  42. NEWS | National Lockdown update

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    5th January 2021

    In light of the recent announcement made last night regarding the national lockdown, we are currently reviewing all provision and communicating with partners to establish what delivery can continue in conjunction with the new guidance. We will provide further correspondence in due course.

    If you require any information, please contact community@rotherhamunited.net or phone 01709827767.

  43. NEWS | Eden Hygiene support community sports trust

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    Rotherham United Community Sports Trust (RUCST) offer their thanks to local business Eden Hygiene for supporting the trust by upgrading hygiene & washroom services at both AESSEAL New York Stadium (Foal Zone) and Parkgate Astro.

    Eden are a complete hygiene & washroom services provider with an outstanding reputation.

    As experts in workplace hygiene, waste management and infection control, Eden work with you to provide a solution which is tailored to your company’s requirements and budget. Eden help you fulfil your health & safety responsibilities to your employees & visitors and furthermore, exceed their expectations. You can find out more information here: https://www.edenhygiene.co.uk/.

    A Spokesperson for RUCST said “We would like to place our thanks on record to Eden Hygiene for their continued support over the recent months, Jessica and the team have been exceptionally professional and honest throughout and we are proud to establish a great working relationship with a renowned local business”.

    A Spokesperson for Eden said: As a small local business we know how important it is for us all to work together especially at this incredibly difficult time. Our hope is that by helping RUCST to upgrade their services and reduce their running costs we are helping to support their much needed community work supporting families within the borough. We are always proud to support local initiatives that do such great work.

    If you would like to find out more information please contact community@rotherhamunited.net or info@edenhygiene.co.uk.

  44. Christmas Camps Are Coming To Town!

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    We are pleased to announce that we will be running our Millers Holiday Camps in December at Thomas Rotherham College.

    Our holiday camps give children the chance to interact with each other, enhance their footballing skills through training and matches, all this can be done whilst having fun and keeping active.

    At the end of every camp children are given gifts and have the chance to win medals and prizes.

    All of our Camps are available for children aged 5 – 14 and are run in a way that caters for all experience and ability levels, each camp is run by FA qualified coaches from Rotherham United Community Sports Trust.

    See full details below:

    Days: 21st/22nd/23rd December

    Times: Flexible Drop Off 9am – 10am, Flexible Pick Up 3pm – 4pm (9am – 4pm full day)

    Venues: Thomas Rotherham College, Moorgate Rd, Rotherham S60 2BE

    Price: £15 per day, £40 for all 3 days

    To secure your place, please book via the link HERE

    If you would like to find out more information, please contact Adam Pilgrim on 01709 827767 or participation@rotherhamunited.net


  45. NEWS | EFL Trust and Ferrero UK deliver Joy of Moving Programme for the seventh year

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    Rotherham United Community Sports Trust in partnership with The EFL Trust and Ferrero UK, are delighted to announce that the Joy of Moving Programme will be delivered once again throughout the 2020-21 academic year.

    Joy of Moving, Ferrero’s unbranded CSR programme, has been supporting children across EFL Communities in the UK for the past six years. The programme consists of two elements – the school-based Move & Learn programme and the Joy of Moving Festivals, which have been developed in conjunction with EFL Trust. These programmes are designed to inspire children to move through play, and in doing so, build up their physical fitness, motor coordination, cognitive functions and creativity and life skills and develop positive habits for adulthood.

    Through the partnership, Rotherham United Community Sports Trust will continue to support and inspire thousands of children in Rotherham to lead an active and balanced lifestyle.

    Never has it been more important to support children in these unprecedented times. According to a poll of PE teachers and school leaders by the Youth Sport Trust, 73% of children returned to school after lockdown with lower fitness levels. In light of the ongoing possibility for further periods of lockdown and tiers affecting exercise, it is important to ensure the programme continues to play a part in supporting communities.

    Emilie Hamilton, Aston Lodge Primary School – “The Joy of Moving Programme is incredibly beneficial to our children. Children enjoyed taking part in the engaging practical activities and games, whilst learning about how this helps to improve their health in the classroom. They have the opportunity to learn about how their healthy lifestyle can be beneficial to them and learn how they can achieve this. Children are left with a greater awareness of how to live a healthy lifestyle through their diet and exercise. This is invaluable information and learning for the children and without Rotherham United Community Sports Trust’s delivery, we would never have been able to teach this to such a high standard. I highly recommend this must have programme and can’t thank RUCST enough for their work with our children”.

    Jamie Wheeler, Thrybergh Fullerton Church of England Academy – “Our children thoroughly enjoyed the Joy of Moving programme that was delivered by Rotherham United Community Sports Trust. The sessions were thoroughly engaging and they highlighted the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle through children learning about their diet and physical activity”

    This year also saw the launch of the online Resource Hub that hosts a variety of fun games and activities to get children and families moving at home – even Peter Andre and his children got involved in the Joy of Moving programme! Furthermore, as it was recognised that children were unlikely to experience the fun of their school sports day, we hosted the first ever ‘Joy of Moving Home School Festival’ which reached over 250,000 children and families. Mike Evans, Chief Executive at EFL Trust said:

    “Children have been one of the hardest hit during this pandemic and the emphasis on the Joy of Moving Programme is even greater to support children, not only physically, but mentally. We are extremely proud of the Joy of Moving Programme and the positive impact it has had during this challenging year. But there is still so much more to do and we are delighted to continue our partnership with Ferrero and through EFL Trust’s network of Club Community Organisations we can continue to deliver a fun educational programme to children and families.”

    Charlie Cayton, Director of Corporate Affairs and Communications, Ferrero UK said;

    “We are proud to have been able to deliver our Joy of Moving CSR programme in the UK over the last six years through our long-term partnership with the EFL Trust. Together, we have helped to move over 340,000 children and delivered over one million hours in schools. In these difficult times, we must continue to play our part in the communities in which we are a part of. We remain committed to delivering this fantastic programme to inspire children and families up and down the country to get moving through play.” To learn more about the Joy of Moving Programme visit www.joyofmovingresourcehub.co.uk.

  46. NEWS | Programme update post 2nd December 2020

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    Rotherham United Community Sports Trust announce phased return of provision due to easing of restrictions.

    Due to transitioning from the national lockdown back to tier 3, we are pleased to announce we will be conducting a phased return of provision across all departments, along with releasing new holiday camp sessions during the Christmas break.

    Over the last 4 weeks the team have been working tirelessly implementing new and improved procedures along with setting the foundations for the launch of new provision starting in January.

    Jamie Noble, Head of Community said “It’s great to offer a variety of sessions before we break for Christmas, it’s been a challenging time for everyone this year and adding a bit normality so to speak for our community is a priority for us. Although not all delivery will return just yet we aim to provide a wide range of sessions that hopefully will cover the vast majority of groups”.

    The full list of sessions available from the 2nd of December are below;

    Sports Participation

    PGA ALL INVITE ONLY SQUADS, Monday & Saturday – Email Adam or Dave
    PGA Future Stars, Friday – Age: 2-9 (2-5, 5-7, 7-9) – BOOK HERE
    PGA Future Stars, Saturday – Ages: 2-5 – BOOK HERE
    PGA Future Stars, Saturday – Ages: 5-9  – BOOK HERE
    PGA Future Stars, Saturday – Ages: 10-13 – BOOK HERE
    Christmas Holiday Camps TBC

    For more information on Sport Participation sessions please email eschofield@rotherhamunited.net.

    Inclusion

    PGA Walking Football, Monday 1pm-2pmWickersley Ability Counts JNR, Saturday – BOOK HERE
    PGA PL KICKS, Thursday 17th December 4pm-6pm
    Kiveton PL KICKS, Friday 18th December 4pm-6pm
    Wath PL KICKS Friday 18th December, 6pm-8pm
    PGA PL KICKS Christmas Holiday Camp
    Maltby Leisure PL KICKS Christmas Holiday Camp
    Kelham Scooter/skate/blade session TBC
    PGA Refugee Football (TBC)

    for more information on inclusion sessions, please email trace@rotherhamunited.net.

    Health & Wellbeing

    PGA Mature Millers Walking football
    NYS Girls Fitness
    PGA Fit Fans
    PGA Inclusion Football
    PGA Man V Fat (Friendlies only)

    For more information on health & wellbeing sessions please email eschofield@rotherhamunited.net.

    Education

    All Education continues as normal along with training & practical sessions.

    For more information in Education sessions please email jmahoney@rotherhamunited.net.

    NCS

    NCS Sessions are running as normal, however all sessions are closed groups (invite only).

    For more information on NCS sessions please email cfoster@rotherhamunited.net.

    Parkgate Astro

    The facility is reopen for organised bookings, risk assessments must be submitted with every new booking and a minimum of 5 weeks is required to secure your place. (Subject to approval and availability).

    For more information on PGA pleas email parkgateastro@rotherhamunited.net .

  47. Trust support advent calendar appeal

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    It has come round to that time of the year (and what a year!) where we are putting our Selection Box drop off/collections back in action!!

    As you all know, every year The Firehouse Group do a Selection Box collection at a R.U.F.C home game during December. We have had to change things a little this year, but we are still focused on bringing a little Christmas cheer to kids living in poverty in our area.

    We are doing 2 drive-thru drop offs for Selection Boxes at Rotherham United F.C in December –

    Saturday 5th December – 10am – 1:30pm
    Wednesday 9th December – 5pm – 7:30pm

    (We will also have some Selection Boxes with us for you to purchase on these days)

    Alternatively, if you would like us to purchase Selection Boxes on your behalf, you can donate via Bank Transfer (reference Mission Christmas)

    Sort Code 40-12-55
    Account Number 82114267

    Mr Chris Wall (Director)

    For every Advent Calendar which is purchased from the Rotherham United shop/website (purchased between Wednesday 5th and Saturday 9th December), the club will very kindly double that order and donate an extra one to Mission Christmas!!

    Thank you for your continued support, and Merry Christmas!

    From all the team at The Firehouse Group

  48. PLCF 10 Year Anniversary Awards

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    This week, The Premier League is celebrating the incredible impact of football clubs in their local communities as the Premier League Charitable Fund marks its 10-year anniversary.

    The Premier League provides investment and long-term support to help clubs create lasting change within communities.

    The Premier League Charitable Fund was established 10 years ago to distribute funding provided by the Premier League to clubs across the entire football pyramid to support those clubs in their delivery of community programmes. In those 10 years, 110 professional football clubs from the Premier League to the National League have been working in their communities to engage those that need the greatest support, provide positive pathways and support mental and physical wellbeing.

    Millions of people across England and Wales have benefited from football clubs’ provision of inclusive programmes, which address important issues and increase sporting, educational and employment opportunities.

    This is why we at RUCST would like to congratulate our PL Kicks participant Harry Davies for being a shining example of what young people can achieve and one of our previous PL Kicks facilitators, Terri Harper for inspiring and supporting young girls through PL Kicks boxing sessions.

    Harry is a young man with disabilities including a condition called microcephaly. When we first came in to contact with Harry he was very shy and reserved and struggled to leave mums side. Fast forward to the present moment and before Covid he was attending almost all of our PL Kicks sessions! During the 1st lock down he also attended restricted sessions. He has developed into a confident young man that has made significant friends on the programme and is seen by staff and peers as a role model to all young people.

    He has also recently started volunteering on our Saturday morning ability counts sessions and before lock down was our disability representative on our Youth Forum. Last year Harry also attended a weekend residential which his mum states he wouldn’t have dreamed of doing if it wasn’t for the confidence he has gained through PL Kicks!

    Terri Harper is the current WBO champion of the world. She got involved in PL kicks in 2019 (before this title) and led boxing sessions for girls aged 11-16 from The New York Stadium.

    Terri inspired girls to believe in their ability and used her own personal journey to inspire everyone who attended. At Christmas she supplied all the girls with individual hand wraps and wrote them all a personalised Christmas card. Some of the girls went on to go watch her win the IBO and WBC titles.

    We received amazing feedback from both participants and parents about her professionalism and conduct. At just 24 years old she is definitely a woman of the community and although due to her work commitments she no longer facilitates for us we feel she deserves the recognition for the impact she made in 2019. 

    Thank you for your fantastic work, dedication and inspiration. We look forward to having you on board in 2021.  

  49. Trust expand Future Stars to incorporate Girls specific sessions

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    We are excited to announce the launch of “Future Stars: Girls” which is a girls only strand of our successful Future Stars development programme.

    The aim is to engage girls aged 5 – 11 in football, whether they’re a complete beginner or already playing with a club, and help develop their skills & knowledge of the game through fun & challenging sessions at our wonderful facility, Parkgate Astro.

    Football Development Coach, Adam Pilgrim said “I am delighted to be getting this project up and running, as I feel we can have a really positive impact on girls football in Rotherham. There are some local clubs doing some fantastic work in the area to provide playing opportunities for girls, and we want to support this by using the brilliant, experienced staff we have at our disposal to offer a place where young people who love playing football can come and improve their skills & knowledge. The boys pathway through Future Stars which we have developed over the last few years has seen a huge amount of success, I’m hoping we can now replicate this through our girls strand and provide opportunities for young female footballers in Rotherham.”

    Future Stars: Girls will be launching as soon as lockdown is lifted and football training is deemed safe to operate by government, DCMS & The FA. To register your child’s interest please complete the form below, and we will be in touch.

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      Child Name

      Child Date of Birth

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    • Trust re-launch Mini Millers

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      RUCST are pleased to announce the re-launch of our popular Mini Millers programme, which will kick off post-lockdown with sessions for children aged 18 months up to 3 years old.

      “In our sessions, children will develop their movement skills through a variety of fun games and explore a range of multi-skills, which as a whole will aid their physical development. A large part of our programme will also be promoting a ‘love for the football’ where the children will explore the different ways of moving the ball with their feet and give them a good foundation to ‘master the ball’ in the future.”

      To register your interest for Mini Millers sessions, please fill in the form below and we will be in contact when sessions re-commence after lockdown.

      __

        Select Your Preferred Session

        Parent Name

        Child Name

        Child Date of Birth

        Parent Contact Number:

        Parent Email Address

        YesI have read and accept the terms outlined in the Privacy Policy

      • NEWS | Affinity IT Services support trusts community work

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        Rotherham United Community Sports trust (RUCST) are delighted to announce Affinity IT Services have kindly donated two PC’s to help support the award winning community work.

        Affinity is a family owned business based in Sheffield, South Yorkshire founded by a team of three business and IT professionals with a wealth of knowledge spread over many years. Affinity are business focused and offer only real world products and solutions aimed predominantly at Small to Medium Sized Enterprises.

        Rich Davies, Account Manager said “We’re delighted to be able to continue donating PC’s to Sheffield City Region charities and on this occasion, hearing the plans Rotherham United Community Sports Trust have for the local community and the PC’s we know the two machines we have donated, that they will be put to fantastic use.”

        Jamie Noble, Head of Community said “We are extremely grateful to Rich and the team at Affinity IT Services, their kindness and generosity is warmly received by myself and everyone at the trust. We pride ourselves on the professional and high quality services we offer and having additional resources will only strengthen the work we are doing in the community”.

        If you would like to find out more information about Affinity IT Services, please visit: https://affinityit.co.uk/

      • NEWS | Can you support the vulnerable during the pandemic?

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        Rotherham United Community Sports Trust (RUCST) are looking for volunteers to help support their covid response initiative over the coming months.

        Can you spare one hour per week to support a vulnerable fan? Duties may include weekly shopping, collection of prescriptions/medicine, dog walking or providing social contact over the phone talking all things Rotherham United to help reduce social isolation.

        RUCST supported hundreds of fans and residents in the community during the first lockdown, and as we enter the second lockdown we are looking to provide the critical services once again.

        The Millers first team staff and players will also be out in force to lend a help in hand as previous, providing food supplies, prescriptions and phone/video calls to their loyal fans.

        Jamie Noble, Head of Community said “Entering a second lockdown must be daunting for many in these uncertain times, the work our volunteers and staff provided for numerous months from March was essential and we feel its our duty as a community club to restore this fantastic service”.

        “I would also like to thank the club, staff and players for their commitment, without question they volunteered their services to the community. It shows how much they value not only the club, but the fans and town as a whole”.

        If you would like to offer your voluntary services, please complete the contact form below to enquire;

        [contact-form-7 404 "Not Found"]

      • Ability counts, Nov – Dec sessions now taking bookings

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        We provide an inclusive football session for young people and adults with disabilities and impairments.

        The sessions are pan-disability which means anyone with a disability impairments can be involved, the sessions is for individuals with visual impairment, deaf or hearing impairment, intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder and physical disability.

        We have 2 sessions, Juniors (ages 7-16), Adults (16+).

        £3.50 per session

        Adults – 9:30am – 10:30am BOOK HERE
        Juniors 10:45am – 11:45am BOOK HERE

        Wickersley School and Sports College, Wickersley, Rotherham, Bawtry Road, S66 1JL

      • NEWS | Holiday Camps return to Wickersley and Parkgate Astro this October

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        We are delighted to announce our return to Wickersley School and Sports College this October for our Holiday Camps.

        Along with Wickersley, we will also be hosting our usual Future Stars Development Football Camps at Parkgate Astro, as well as the popular Mini Millers sports sessions.

        All camps will adhere to current government guidelines around Covid-19 and strict procedures will be in place to keep participants as safe as possible.

        We will be operating strict online booking only, this is to manage quantities for the safety of children, parents and staff members.

        Full details of our camps are listed below:

        Wickersley School – October Holiday Camp (BOOK HERE)
        5-14 years
        Monday – Friday (5 days)
        9am-4pm
        £15 per day or £60 for the week

        Flexible drop off between 9am-10am
        Flexible pick up between 3pm-4pm

        Parkgate Astro – October Future Stars Football Camp (BOOK HERE)
        5-14 years
        Tuesday – Thursday (3 days)
        9am-4pm
        £15 per day £40 for 3 days

        Flexible drop off between 9am-10am
        Flexible pick up between 3pm-4pm

        Parkgate Astro Mini millers (BOOK HERE)
        2-4 years
        Monday 10-11am
        Friday 1-2pm
        £5 per session

        If you require any more information, please contact community@rotherhamunited.net or 01709 827767

      • RUCST | Job vacancy – Employability & Skills Officer

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        Rotherham United Community Sports Trust are seeking to appoint an enthusiastic, charismatic and dedicated individual to join our Education Team.

        We are a diverse Trust that respects differences in race, disability, gender, faith background or personal circumstances we welcome all application. We want everyone to feel valued and included in the football community and to achieve their full potential. The trust is opposed to any discrimination and commits itself to the redress of any inequalities by taking positive action where appropriate.

        Job Role:  Employability & Skills Officer
        Hours:  20-30 hours over 4 days
        Salary: £13,333 – £20,000

        How to apply:
        Download application form here 
        Download Job Description here

        Closing date: 13th of November 2020, 12noon. 
        Interview date: TBC

        Please send a copy of your job application to jobs@rotherhamunited.net, if you require any more information please contact James, Education Manager at Jmahoney@rotherhamunited.net.

        This job description is not to be regarded as exclusive or exhaustive. It is intended as an outline indication of the areas of activity and will be amended in light of the changing needs of Rotherham United Community Sports Trust.

        RUCST is committed to safeguarding and promoting welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expects all staff to share this commitment.

        As part of this commitment to providing a safe environment for our young people, we require all candidates to undertake and return a satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate. RUCST will assist with the application for, and pay for the process of, a new DBS for staff members where required.

        Criminal Records Disclosures

        We recognise the contribution that former or ex-offenders can make as an employee; a person’s criminal record will not, in itself, debar that person from being appointed to this post. Candidates will be given the opportunity to provide us with information on their criminal record, which will be treated in the strictest confidence. Suitable applicants will not be refused posts because of any offences which are not relevant to the role and which do not make them a risk in the role for which they are applying.

        Equal Opportunities

      • Future Stars Nov – Dec Block available to book!

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        We are now taking bookings for November – December block!

        Whether your child is new to football, or they just want some extra training, our top quality coaching team are here to help. With UEFA/FA qualifications and bags of experience in grassroots, development & academy settings, our staff will provide an environment where your child can love football, and improve their skills.

        Future Stars, Friday 1 – BOOK HERE
        Venue: Parkgate Astro
        Time: 4:45pm – 5:45pm
        Age: 2-9 (2-5, 5-7, 7-9)
        Dates: 6th November – 18th December 2020
        Cost : £35 block booking (£5.00 per session)

        Future Stars, Saturday 1 – BOOK HERE
        Venue: Parkgate Astro
        Time: 9am – 10am
        Ages: 2-5
        Dates: 7th November – 19th December 2020
        Cost: £35 block booking (£5 per session)

        Future Stars, Saturday 2 – BOOK HERE
        Venue: Parkgate Astro
        Time: 9am – 10am
        Ages: 5-9
        Dates: 7th November – 19th December 2020
        Cost: £35 block booking (£5 per session)

        Future Stars, Saturday 3 – BOOK HERE
        Venue: Parkgate Astro
        Time: 10am – 11am
        Ages: 10-13
        Dates: 7th November – 19th December 2020
        Cost: £35 block booking (£5 per session)

        Attached is a consent form that MUST be completed and signed prior to session, without this players cannot train.

        Covid-19 Checklist
        Covid-19 Consent form

        If you require any more information, please contact community@rotherhamunited.net.

      • Sports College Virtual Open Evenings Confirmed

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        Rotherham United Sports College are pleased to announce they are hosting a series of Open Evenings in preparation for the 2021/22 academic year.

        At the Sport College we deliver a number of high quality academic programmes of study in Further and Higher Education. The various study programmes combine academic studies with a practical sporting experience and are aimed at young people who have a passion for sport and a desire to progress to University or employment within the sporting industry. These events aim to provide details of what the football club offer to young people for when they leave school at Year 11.

        It’s not possible to invite you to the New York Stadium at the moment, but we don’t want you to miss out on seeing what we have to offer. We have created online Information Events so that you can:

        • Explore our facilities online
        • Chat with tutors and education staff
        • Learn about the various education courses and sports academies
        • Ask questions relating to any aspect of the courses i.e. progression routes, entry requirements etc.

        There are 3 options available. Choose one that is convenient for you and register by clicking the link below.

        We hope you can join us!

        Open Evening (option 1) – Tuesday 03rd November 2020, 4pm – 5pm

        https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJ0pcuCurTIuH9xlgC4HcK6vGkwol42OhClh

        Open Evening (option 2) – Wednesday 04th November 2020, 4pm – 5pm

        https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJcpdOmhrTgtH9zwIg_fx4WtAUmJvfreZ5NZ

        Open Evening (option 3) – Thursday 05th November 2020, 6pm – 7pm

        https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJ0lcuuqrzMoEtPscWWzUnHhPLOIVRs_CPlV

      • NEWS | School sports package a resounding success

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        Rotherham United Community sports Trust’s (RUCST) newly developed school sport packages prove to be a hit in Rotherham.

        During the local lock down the Sports Participation team worked tirelessly to develop a new and improved school sports partnership offer for schools in the Rotherham area. The newly developed packages, which rolled out in September provide clear and concise sport and curriculum packages enabling schools to hand pick their preferred choice with options to bolt-on additional services at competitive rates.

        Emma Schofield, Sport Participation Manager said “the response from the schools has been fantastic and the feedback for the partnership package has been very well received.”

        “We worked hard over the summer to get this right, and I strongly believe the provision on offer is second to none. Credit goes out to the Participation team for making this happen and thank you to all schools who provided feedback, it’s greatly appreciated.”

        RUCST staff members trained over the summer period to ensure the correct Covid-19 procedures are followed at all sessions and EVERY coach at the trust has been supplied with a COVID pack which consists of all the key PPE to ensure sessions can proceed in the safest manner.

        James Mahoney, Education Manager said “I’m delighted with the final result of the school sport packages, I believe the staff CPD will be an asset to the local primary schools, Increasing confidence, competence and PE subject knowledge to their already fantastic teams.

        The Schools Sports partnership brochure can be viewed here.

        If you would like to find out more information about our school offer, please contact participation@rotherhamunited.net or phone 01709 827767.

      • ‘DO ONE THING’ THIS WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY

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        The EFL and its Clubs will once again come together with charity partner, Mind, to collectively mark World Mental Health Day (Saturday 10 October) this year.

        With Mind’s latest research1 revealing that more than 60% of adults and over two thirds of young people (68%) felt their mental health deteriorated during the coronavirus pandemic and lockdown, encouraging conversations around our own mental health and that of others has never been more important.

        Mind’s ‘do one thing’ campaign aims to inspire people to make one small change or take one action to look after their mental health. As part of the campaign, EFL Clubs will play their part and ‘do one thing’ to say thank you to someone deserving within their local communities.

        For example:

        • Barrow AFC will be delivering match programmes and flowers to an elderly life-long supporter who has been telling friends how much she is missing football.

        • Crawley Town will organise a number of activities including delivery of a signed shirt, phone calls from players to fans and a zoom quiz for Extra Time Hub participants

        • Millwall will hold a virtual coffee morning with a number of players, community trust staff and participants of the Club’s mental health programme discussing wellbeing and Covid-19

        • MK Dons will be holding mental health workshops throughout the week working with teenagers to highlight the importance of talking about their mental health

         Mind polled 16,000 people aged 13 and over on the impact of the pandemic on people with mental health problems.

        From Monday 5 October, Clubs and Club Community Organisations (CCOs) will be sharing their activity and advice across their channels throughout the next week.

        Supporters can get involved in the campaign by sharing their ‘one thing’ of advice or activities across social media.

        EFL Chief Executive, David Baldwin, said: “It is fantastic to see EFL Clubs come together to once again mark World Mental Health Day and support our charity partner, Mind.

        “Looking after our mental health and that of others has always been vital but as we all feel the effects of the Coronavirus pandemic and lockdown, it has never been more important to continue to raise awareness and encourage conversations around the subject.

        “The various activity taking place this week is a small example of how our Clubs and their respective Club Community Organisations are at the forefront of tackling some of society’s biggest issues. They play a vital role in improving the lives of so many people within communities across the country.


        “I’d encourage everyone to get involved and ‘do one thing’ this week – one small action may have a much bigger impact on those around you and help someone in need.”

        This is the latest activity by the EFL and Mind, who are currently in Year Three of their groundbreaking charity partnership which aims to raise awareness of mental health amongst fans and the wider public, help raise funds for Mind to deliver life changing services and improve the approach to mental health in the EFL and Clubs.

        The League recently celebrated the impact of the charity partnership over the last two seasons, with the results available to view here – https://www.efl.com/news/2020/august/efl-and-mind-celebrate-twoseasons-on-on-your-side-partnership/

        For more information on how to get involved with ‘Do one thing’ on World Mental Health Day see
        mind.org.uk/wmhd

        For more information on the EFL and Mind’s charity partnership visit – https://www.efl.com/-more/allabout-the-efl/official-charity/

        If you need support from Mind visit Mind.org.uk for information and advice. You can also talk to Mind via the confidential Infoline on 0300 123 3393 or text 86463.

      • Ability Counts returns to Wickersley

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        We are delighted to announce that our Ability Counts sessions will be returning to Wickersley School and Sports College in October.

        We will be operating strict online booking only, this is to manage quantities for the safety of children, parents and staff members.

        Full details of our camps are listed below:

        Ability Counts – Adults
        Venue: Wickersley School & Sports College
        time: 9:30am – 10:30am
        Dates: 3rd October – 24th October
        Price: £3.50 per session
        BOOK HERE

        Ability Counts – Jnrs
        Venue: Wickersley School & Sports College
        time: 9:45am – 11:45am
        Dates: 3rd October – 24th October
        Price: £3.50 per session
        BOOK HERE

        If you require any more information, please contact community@rotherhamunited.net.

      • Friday sessions added for Future Stars

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        After a successful Summer delivering holiday provision, we are delighted to announce the next block of Future Stars open sessions are available to book.

        Whether your child is new to football, or they just want some extra training, our top quality coaching team are here to help. With UEFA/FA qualifications and bags of experience in grassroots, development & academy settings, our staff will provide an environment where your child can love football, and improve their skills.

        Future Stars, Friday 1 BOOK HERE
        Venue: Parkgate Astro
        Time: 4:45pm – 5:45pm
        Age: 4-6
        Dates: 25th September – 23rd October 2020
        Cost : £25 block booking (£5.00 per session)

        Future Stars, Friday 2 BOOK HERE
        Venue: Parkgate Astro
        Time: 4:45pm – 5:45pm
        Age: 7-8
        Dates: 25th September – 23rd October 2020
        Cost : £25 block booking (£5.00 per session)
        ____________________________________

        Future Stars, Saturday 1 BOOK HERE
        Venue: Parkgate Astro
        Time: 9am – 10am
        Ages: 3-5
        Dates: 5th September – 24th October 2020
        Cost: £40 block booking (£5 per session)

        Future Stars, Saturday 2 BOOK HERE
        Venue: Parkgate Astro
        Time: 9am – 10am
        Ages: 6-9
        Dates: 5th September – 24th October 2020
        Cost: £40 block booking (£5 per session)

        Future Stars, Saturday 3 BOOK HERE
        Venue: Parkgate Astro
        Time: 10am – 11am
        Ages: 10-13
        Dates: 5th September – 24th October 2020
        Cost: £40 block booking (£5 per session)

        Attached is a consent form that MUST be completed and signed prior to session, without this players cannot train.

        Covid-19 Checklist
        Covid-19 Consent form

        If you require any more information, please contact community@rotherhamunited.net.

      • Rotherham United Women FC awarded funding to help them return to action

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        Great news for football in Rotherham today, as Rotherham United Women FC are celebrating receiving funding from the Premier League to help them prepare for the restart of football and safe return of supporters to their stadium.

        The Matchday Support Fund grant will help RUWFC put in place measures that will make their ground safer for the 2020/21 season given the challenges caused by COVID-19.

        The grant will be used for the safe return to football including:

        • cleaning and sanitisation
        • hire of temporary facilities, such as toilets
        • PPE equipment for staff or volunteers
        • safety screening
        • signage and floor markings
        • social distancing measures
        • track and trace
        • travel to and from away games

        • any other requirement arising from current or updated Government, FA or FAW guidance that is published

        The Matchday Support Fund is managed by the Football Stadia Improvement Fund (FSIF), which is financed by the Premier League and supports non-league and Women’s Football Pyramid clubs with the cost of improvements to their grounds.

        The Matchday Support Fund follows the recent Pitch and Club Preparation Funds, which saw £8.7m in grants awarded by the Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation to prepare the country’s playing surfaces and facilities for the return of football.

        Jamie Noble Club Chairperson RUWFC, said: “It is fantastic that the Football Foundation and Premier League have opened up the Matchday Support Fund grant which will make a tremendous difference to the club given the recent events with Covid Pandemic. The money will be used to support the first team on their return to competitive action and will be operated in partnership with Parkgate FC.”

      • RUWFC Fixtures announced

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        RUWFC Fixtures 2020/21

        DateFixtureH/A
        06/09/20Oughtibridge WFC FA CupH
        20/09/20York City WFC FA Cup depend on aboveA
        27/09/20Mansfield Town WFCH
        04/10/20Northampton Town WFCH
        07/10/20Ollerton WFC (night Match)A
        11/10/20Oughtibridge WFCH
        18/10/20Peterborough WFCA
        25/10/20Park Rise Ladies FCH
        08/11/20Woodlands WFCA
        15/11/20Kettering Town WFCH
        22/11/20Leicester City LFC FirstA
        29/11/20Loughborough Students LFCH
        13/12/20Loughborough Students LFCA
        03/01/21Mansfield Town WFCA
        10/01/21Northampton Town WFCA
        17/01/21Ollerton WFCH
        24/01/21Oughtibridge WFCA
        31/01/21Peterborough WFCH
        07/02/21Park Rise Ladies FCA
        21/02/21Woodlands WFCH
        28/02/21Kettering Town WFCA
        07/03/21Leicester City LFC FirstH

        Please note this does not include cup matches

      • NEWS |Woody announced as PFA Community Champion for Rotherham United F.C.

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        Woodys commitment to making a difference in the local area has been recognised by the Professional Footballers’ Association.

        Richard has been named Rotherham United’s PFA Community Champion of the Year for the 2019/20 season due to his commitment to making a difference in the local area.

        The club captain is not only a leader on the pitch, he brings the same qualities off the field and thrives on making a difference in the local community.

        Throughout the season he played a prominent role within the community attending numerous events and sessions hosted by both the Club and Trust, such as visits to local primary schools, community venues, key stake holder events, match day activities plus many more.

        After winning the award, Woody commented:

        “I’m delighted to receive this fantastic award, the club and community provide an amazing service to the local area and I will do everything I can to support them, regardless of the cause. Rotherham United and the local community are one big family, being a part of this for the last several years has been an honour.”

        “I would also like to thank the PFA for the continued support and commitment to the professional footballing community.”

        Jamie Noble, Head of Community said “Having Woody at Rotherham United is a blessing, he thoroughly deserves the accolades and continually goes above and beyond for the community of Rotherham.”

        “He has always shown willingness to help and support, which is a key element to the work we do in the community. I would like to place my thanks to Woody from everyone at the trust, Keep up the great work.”

        The Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) was formed on 2nd December 1907 and is the world’s longest established professional sportsperson’s union. 

        The aims of the PFA are to protect, improve and negotiate the conditions, rights and status of all professional players by collective bargaining agreements.

        For more information please visit:
        www.rucst.co.uk
        https://www.thepfa.com/thepfa/about

      • Future Stars Saturday sessions available for booking

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        After a successful Summer delivering holiday provision, we are delighted to announce the next block of Future Stars open sessions are available to book.

        Whether your child is new to football, or they just want some extra training, our top quality coaching team are here to help. With UEFA/FA qualifications and bags of experience in grassroots, development & academy settings, our staff will provide an environment where your child can love football, and improve their skills.

        Future Stars, Saturday 1 BOOK HERE
        Venue: Parkgate Astro
        Time: 9am – 10am
        Ages: 3-5
        Dates: 5th September – 24th October 2020
        Cost: £40 block booking (£5 per session)

        Future Stars, Saturday 2 BOOK HERE
        Venue: Parkgate Astro
        Time: 9am – 10am
        Ages: 6-9
        Dates: 5th September – 24th October 2020
        Cost: £40 block booking (£5 per session)

        Future Stars, Saturday 3 BOOK HERE
        Venue: Parkgate Astro
        Time: 10am – 11am
        Ages: 10-13
        Dates: 5th September – 24th October 2020
        Cost: £40 block booking (£5 per session)

        Attached is a consent form that MUST be completed and signed prior to session, without this players cannot train.

        Covid-19 Checklist
        Covid-19 Consent form

        If you require any more information, please contact community@rotherhamunited.net.

      • Rotherham United Community Sports Trust Tackles Loneliness

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        Rotherham United Community Sports Trust are joining 31 EFL clubs as part of a major new programme to tackle loneliness among older people.

        The English Football League Trust are proud to be receiving £810,000 from the Department of Culture Media and Sport (DCMS) to support EFL Club Community Organisations in 32 deprived locations across England with the aim of connecting more older people at risk of loneliness.

        A recent study from the Office National Statistics (ONS) showed that 2.6 million adults reported that they felt lonely “often” or “always” whilst 7.4 million adults reported their well-being had been affected through their having felt lonely in the past seven days.

        The EFL Trust network has a history of working with people across all generations and have a track record of connecting the people who need it most.

        Mike Evans, Chief Executive Officer of the EFL Trust comments, “We are proud to have been chosen to be part of this vital mission to support the older people in our communities. We see this as an endorsement of the great work that our CCOs have done in this area and we know there is so much more that our network will achieve. Our Health and Wellbeing team are working hard to match the expertise of our network to the communities where it is most desperately needed and we continue to work with DCMS, NHS, Public Health England and other agencies to ensure we can all build back better after COVID-19.”

        Last year the Trust launched the Extra Time Hubs movement, to engage retired and semi-retired people to combat loneliness and inactivity.  Funded by Sport England, through the National Lottery, the first pathfinder Hubs are run at 11 EFL clubs. 

        Recently, during the COVID-19 pandemic, efforts to ensure that older and more vulnerable fans and members of the community are not isolated have stepped up with groups meeting online, WhatsApp groups being set up and regular phone calls being made by Community teams, players and managers, to check on people’s wellbeing. Our Clubs and CCOs have also made doorstep visits to check in on community members across the country.

        Kenneth who has been receiving calls from the club during lockdown said ‘I really appreciate you making the effort to call me. It’s a great club and this just shows that.  It’s so nice to know someone is there if you need them.’

        The new grants will allow expanded activities across the country under the campaign ‘Let’s Tackle Loneliness Together’, include befriending phone calls, online social groups, a pen-pal scheme, social action from young people taking part in NCS and socially distanced ‘garden gate’ conversations to emerge across EFL communities and reach the people who need this vital support right when they need it the most.

        The EFL Trust will also be one of a number of charities and business across the UK who will join the government’s Tackling Loneliness Network, leading the charge against Loneliness. The group will explore ways to bring people together to build strong community spirit, with a focus on groups at particular risk of loneliness, and will work to continue these initiatives in the future.

        To find out more contact health@rotherhamunited.net or call 01709 827767

      • Join us as we unite to Help Our Communities Get Better Health

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        Public Health England have launched a major new adult health campaign to seize the opportunity for a national reset moment of health, and the EFL Trust FIT FANS Programme is part of the campaign.

        Nearly two thirds (63%) of adults in the UK are overweight or living with obesity (1) and this extra weight can cause pressure to build up around vital organs, making it harder for the body to fight against diseases like cancer and heart disease. By reducing your weight within a healthy range, you can also cut your risk of being critically ill with COVID-19.

        Throughout the season, EFL Clubs and Club Community Organisations (CCOs) deliver a number of programmes to help individuals reduce their weight and improve their overall physical health.

        This includes FIT FANS, a 12-week programme currently run by over 30 Clubs, that has continued throughout the Coronavirus pandemic with many sessions adapted to be delivered online. Thousands of participants have taken part across the network and over 10,000 people have tuned in to the FIT FANS online campaign that was launched in April and is still available here:

        Andy who took part in the first Fit Millers programme said ‘When all is said though the first FIT MILLERS will take a special place in all those that contributed , if you remember it for the extreme weather conditions , the odd leg injury (hope you’re ok now ) or the Covid -19 . The 2020 FIT MILLERS was a great experience.  Only one more thing to do is to thank Emma, Ryan, Mark, and all the crew for helping me to change my life for the better and hopefully the lives of those to come. GREAT PROGRAMME.

        To improve health and wellbeing, individuals should aim to have a BMI below 25 and above 18.5. (2) NICE recommends that Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups should aim to have a BMI below 23 and above 18.5 to avoid risks to health. (3)

        To support people to live healthier lives, Public Health England’s Better Health campaign provides a variety of tools and apps to help you make healthier food choices, become more active and prevent future weight gain. One of these tools is a Weight Loss Plan app, which provides 12 weeks’ worth of engaging content that can be personalised and tailored to the goals and needs of the individual.

        For help and support to lose weight, visit nhs.uk/BetterHealth.

        To find out more about how to make a long term and sustainable lifestyle change, go behind the scenes at your club, learn about healthy eating and take part is an exercise programme, find your local FIT FANS session www.rucst.co.uk  And don’t worry….our FIT FANS often say with FIT FANS they are too busy having fun to realise that they are exercising.

        REFERENCES

        1. Health Survey for England 2018
        2. Health Survey for England 2016
        3. NICE recommendations 1–18 in Preventing type 2 diabetes: risk identification and interventions for individuals at high risk (public health guidance 38).

      • Man v Fat Football is back

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        Friday night with the lads, football, and a smaller waist line. Sounds like the dream to us!!

        Our Man v Fat Football league is now able to make its return into its 7th season! The results from the previous 6 seasons speak for themselves. With the top scorers losing around 3 stone and 30 cm off their waist in just 14 weeks there’s no wonder we are one of the top performing leagues in the country.

        Add to that a handful of men reversing their type 2 diabetes and a vast improvements in mental health scores across the league, there’s nowhere else we would rather be on a Friday evening.

        Join around 80 other men down at Parkagte Astro every Friday between 7-9pm.

        League points are scored on the pitch during a 30 minute 7 aside game, but more importantly points are scored by the number of players losing weight that week. Added goals for completing your food diary, losing weight 3 times, and reducing your body weight by 5% and 10% means there’s no need to be a Ronaldo to win this league.

        If you are over 18 with a BMI of 27.5+ then sign up today and let the gentlemen of Rotherham support you into your new healthy lifestyle.

        Sign up here: www.manvfatfootball.org/rotherham

      • FIT MILLERS RETURNS

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        We are delighted to announce the return of our adult weight loss programme, Fit Millers.

        Face to face sessions for both men and women will resume w/c 7th September.

        Fit Fans is a 13 week programme for men and women aged 35-65 who are overweight or obese.

        The programme is delivered on a Monday evening for women and a Thursday evening for men, 6.00pm-7.30pm at New York Stadium.

        Each week we work through 45 minutes of discussion topics on healthy eating, activity, hydration and alcohol followed by 45 minutes activity. The activity sessions are tailored to those new to exercise, or those who have been out of the swing of things for a while.

        The project is aimed at football fans meaning all aspects of the session are delivered within New York Stadium. The project includes a behind the scenes stadium tour, a visit from a first team player and 2 free tickets to an RUFC game.

        If you have a BMI of 28+ or a waist circumference of 38+inch (men) 31+inch (women) get in touch today fitmillers@rotherhamunited.net

      • Rotherham United Community Sports Trust celebrate grant award

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        Football in Rotherham received a boost today as RUCST were awarded a grant by the Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation.

        The £500 grant from the Foundation’s Club Preparation Fund will help RUCST to prepare their buildings to safely reopen in line with Government guidance around hygiene and social distancing, and The FA’s plans for a ‘phased return’ that were announced on 18 July.

        The Club Preparation Fund follows the £7m of investment awarded to 2,900 organisations through last month’s Pitch Preparation Fund, also delivered by the Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation.  This is enabling over 9,000 football pitches to be made match-fit, and is benefiting over 33,000 football teams.

        Speaking about their funding success, Gary Bricknell, Operations Manager said: “Everyone at the trust would like to thank Football Foundation for their continued support over the last 18 months, they have been fantastic not only supporting the trust, but the local community.”

        “This funding will go along way in helping us reopen the facility in a safe and structured capacity, enabling us to comply with government guidance.”

        The Football Foundation is a charity funded by the Premier League, The FA and the Government, through Sport England.

      • FOOTBALL CAMP IS BACK!!!

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        In addition to our education and activity camps we are now able to offer a football specific camp to those aged 8-14 years.

        Join us every Thursday for the morning, afternoon, or full day at Parkgate Astro.

        Book your place now:

        Morning session: (BOOK HERE)
        Parkgate Astro
        9am – 11:30am
        £10 per session or £60 for 6 weeks

        Afternoon session: (BOOK HERE)
        Parkgate Astro
        12:30pm – 3pm
        £10 per session or £60 for 6 weeks

        Full day: (BOOK HERE)
        Parkgate Astro
        9am – 3pm
        £15 per session, £90 for 6 weeks

        Fore more information, please contact community@rotherhamunited.net

      • Frecklington Appointed Shadow Academy Ambassador

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        Rotherham United Community Sports Trust can today confirm Lee Frecklington has returned to the Football Club as Honorary Ambassador for the Sports College Shadow Academy and Future Stars Programme.

        Considered by many as a Millers legend, Lee joined Rotherham United during the first season at the New York Stadium and scored the decisive goal against Aldershot in a 2-0 victory to gain promotion to League 1. He then scored 13 times in a successful 2013/14 season which finished with promotion to the Championship where his performances & goals were an integral part of the team managing three consecutive seasons in the 2nd tier of English Football.

        Lee celebrates securing the decisive goal to secure promotion to League 1.

        The role will see the former Millers captain support the coaching staff and players at the Sports College, which aims to give talented young players between the ages of 16 and 18 the chance to combine academic studies with practical football experience. Alongside current Shadow Academy Ambassador Ben Wiles, Lee will work closely with the youngsters on and off the pitch to pass on his knowledge and experience to support their holistic development. Having recently left Lincoln City, Lee is hoping to continue playing football and his role with the Shadow Academy will be scheduled around his playing commitments.

        Lee will also carry out a similar role for our Future Stars programme, which is a Community Football Development programme for 3-13 year olds based at Parkgate Astro. These sessions are structured similar to our clubs academy and give children the chance to build their skills & game knowledge whilst learning to work within a team.

        Lee will join current Shadow Academy Ambassador Ben Wiles.

        Looking forward to his new role, Frecklington commented: It’s great to be back in Rotherham, The club has always been close to my heart having spent numerous successful years here.”

        “During my time at Rotherham I have seen first-hand what the Community Sports Trust do in the local community and it’s an honour to return in an ambassador role supporting the fantastic work they do not only for the fans but for Rotherham as a whole.”

        Jamie Noble, Head of Community said “Frecks has always played an important role in the local community so there was no hesitation to have him back on board supporting the fantastic work we are already doing in the community.”

        “He is a role model for all participants, his commitment to the game and community is second to none. We are overjoyed to have him back at the AESSEAL New York Stadium.”

        Education Manager, James Mahoney said: “We are delighted to announce Lee Frecklington as Honorary Ambassador for our Shadow Academy. This will provide a fantastic opportunity for our students to learn from someone of Lee’s calibre. Not only will he be able to support their football development during training sessions but also pass on his knowledge and experience to help them pursue their career goals.

        Pre-season dates will be announced in the coming weeks.

        To find out more about the Shadow Academy please visit https://www.rucst.co.uk/rotherham-united-fc-shadow-academy/

      • NEWS | Key Worker discount available on all summer holiday provision for limited time only!

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        Limited time offer on our Summer Holiday Provision, KEY WORKERS get 20% off all orders using voucher code “KEYWORKER” at check out. 

        Holiday Camps (Sport/Education): 
        https://www.rucst.co.uk/millers-holiday-camps/ 

        Alternative Camps (Mini Millers/Ability Counts):  https://www.rucst.co.uk/alternative-camps/ 

        Future Stars Football: 
        https://www.rucst.co.uk/news-future-stars-summer-holiday-provision-announced/ 

        If you require pay as you go bookings please ring the office on 01709 827767.

      • iPRO and Rotherham United Women Announce Partnership For Next 3 Years

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        iPRO has today announced it’s new partnership with Rotherham United Women FC as the Club’s Official Hydration Partner for the next three years.

        Rotherham United Women FC, who currently play in the FA Women’s Premier League Midlands Division 1, were keen to confirm the deal with healthy hydration drinks company, iPRO, as a perfect fit was formed following Rotherham United Men’s Teams already receiving the excellent benefits that iPRO Hydrate provides.

        Low in sugar and containing 100% of your daily Vitamin C, iPRO Hydrate is naturally sweetened with Stevia, enabling footballers to reach optimum hydration levels during training and on a match day without consuming any added colours, flavours or calorific value for optimal wellbeing.

        iPRO Hydrate is available in four fantastic flavours; Berry Mix, Orange and Pineapple, Citrus Blend and Mango Flavour, allowing an excellent assortment for player choice.

        The partnership will put a strong focus on the importance of sustainability, with a commitment being made to emphasize the value of recycling to both players and consumers.

        iPRO has worked hard to intensify it’s sustainability commitment to ensure that all product packaging is fully recyclable within the UK’s current recycling infrastructure. iPRO recognise how sustainable packaging plays an integral role in communicating our brand values to it’s customers and to mitigate it’s impact on the environment.

        As iPRO continues to develop product packaging along side waste management and recycling organisations nationally, iPRO’s main focus is to ensure that each bottle has the optimum chance of being recycled back into plastic bottles providing closed loop bottle-to-bottle recycling.

        Excited about working with iPRO, RUWFC Manager, Jamie Noble, mentioned:

        “We are thrilled that iPRO have offered to support the Rotherham United Women’s Team for the next 3 years. This is a true reflection of how far we have come, as Rotherham United Football Club support the Women’s game by securing such a high profile and high quality brand to support all of our local teams. We are extremely grateful to the team at iPRO not just for committing to supporting Rotherham United Women FC, but also for the kind donations they have made over the past 4 months to support our key workers in many organisations to keep them hydrated in the Nation’s hour of need.”

        To kick off the partnership before the new season, Manager of Rotherham United Women, Jamie Noble, and First Team Captain Leanne Carter, were delighted to team up with hydration experts iPRO to provide a special delivery to key workers at Rotherham Hospital and Community Charity. Healthy hydration was donated to staff continuing to work extremely hard by gifting care packages that included the low sugar drinks for key workers.

        Care packages were shared equally between the Urgent and Emergency Care Centre and Ward A5 at the Hospital. Staff in these areas wear full PPE to carry out a very demanding job in a hot environment whilst caring for Covid-19 patients, meaning plentiful hydration is absolutely vital.

        Suzanne Rutter, Charity Engagement and Development Manager at Rotherham Hospital and Community Charity, was integral to the donation:

        “We thank Rotherham United Women and iPRO very much for donating the hydration drinks to support the wellbeing of staff at Rotherham Hospital and Community Charity. It was a great offer and I’m sure they will keep our colleagues going for some time.”

        iPRO National Account Manager, Charlotte Taylor, also commented:

        “We are delighted to announce our new partnership with Rotherham United Women and show a high level of support to the Women’s team after an already successful long-standing partnership with the Men’s team.

        We also wanted to show our collective appreciation for key workers by donating our wellbeing drinks, alongside the Women’s team, in order to help such a worthy organisation. It is a fantastic way to start our partnership and we are very proud to have teamed up with the club prior to the 20-21 season starting.”

      • NEWS | Trust Announce School Sport Partnership

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        In preparation for the 2020/21 academic year we are delighted to launch our brand new Rotherham United Sports Partnership Offer. We will shortly be sending you a brochure detailing all our individual programmes and how we can support your school across 6 key areas:

        Rotherham United can support your school to ensure pupils are developing in a variety of areas linking to the National Curriculum. We are more than a Football Club – we deliver a wide range of activities and lessons ranging from Literacy to Healthy Lifestyle programmes and from PE lessons to competitions. Alongside our delivery, we have some fantastic ways of engaging and incentivising activities throughout school. This includes matchday tickets, player visits and stadium tours.

        Please see below an overview of the Sports Partnership model. There will be 3 packages available for you to access which we hope will; increase levels of participation, educate individuals of the health benefits of sport and provide environments for children to realise their potential.

        We understand that there will be different challenges for schools in September and we have been working hard to tailor our programmes so that they can be delivered using a blend of online and face-to-face sessions. Our staff CPD programme will also place a large emphasis on how physical activity can be delivered taking into consideration government guidelines in relation to Covid-19.

        To share these plans in more detail we would like to invite you to a Zoom presentation next week on Wednesday 16th July at 3.30pm. To register your attendance please follow the link below:

        https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcsf-Cprj4qHNaHB9R-Npks6J3c6W-IJCDY

        If you would like to find out more information, please contact community@rotherhamunited.net. 

       
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