Barnsley Council

02/09/2026

Good morning, Barnsley! 👋

Watch our video all about Coffee, Cake and Community, a social connection project which helps to bring people together and gives them the chance to explore supported volunteering.

Hear from volunteer Mark on how he volunteers and has made new friendships through the project.

Coffee, Cake and Community is supported by Barnsley Council Central Area Team.

New members are welcome - just turn up at Worsbrough Library at 3pm on a Thursday or email [email protected] for more information.

Find out how you can get involved in your community through volunteering at barnsley.gov.uk/LoveWhereYouLive.

01/09/2026

Primary school applications are now open for September 2027.

If your child was born between 1 September 2022 and 31 August 2023, now is the time to start thinking about their journey into school.

Applying online is quick and easy, and our primary school guide can help you explore your options and choose the school that's right for your child.

Apply before Friday 15 January 2027 at barnsley.gov.uk/schooladmissions.

01/09/2026

Through Barnsley 2030, local people highlighted the importance of digital opportunities.

That feedback helped shape projects like The Seam Digital Campus, supporting innovation, investment and inclusive economic growth in Barnsley.

Now we're starting the conversation about Barnsley 2040. Share your views and help shape what comes next 👉 barnsley.gov.uk/ShapingTheFuture

28/08/2026

If you’re a working parent and claim 30 hours free childcare, don’t forget that the deadline to apply for the autumn term, which begins in September, is next week!

You’ll need to apply for your funding code by Monday 31 August, even if you’ve applied before for previous terms.

If you’re a working parent of a child aged between 9 months and 4 years and currently don’t claim, check your eligibility and find out more at beststartinlife.gov.uk/childcare-early-years-education/15-and-30-hours-support

28/08/2026

Do you know an unsung hero from the Pen*stone area who deserves long overdue recognition?

Pen*stone Ward Alliance are inviting nominations for their 2026 Volunteer Awards, which recognise people who go above and beyond to make a difference in their community.

From volunteers who routinely give up their time and skills to lead, run or support groups in their area, to those who befriend or mentor others, the awards offer an opportunity to say “thank you”.

There are nine awards to be presented at Wortley Hall on the evening of Thursday 22 October, and nominations are now open.

Find out more through the link in the comments.

28/08/2026

This week, our Disabled Children's Team and Short Breaks Team met Cllr Edward Dillingham, Deputy Leader of Barnsley Council, and Cllr Gary Hall, Cabinet Spokesperson for Children's Services.

It was a great opportunity to discuss how the teams support children, young people and families across Barnsley and celebrate the impact they make.

The Disabled Children's Team shared how they work with families, schools, health services and other partners to help children with disabilities and complex needs get the right support, build independence and achieve the best possible outcomes.

The Short Breaks Team spoke about the activities and support they deliver for disabled children and young people. This includes giving the children opportunities to socialise, develop new skills and build confidence. The service also offers valuable respite for parents and carers, helping families stay strong and supported.

Cllr Hall said: "I really enjoyed meeting the Disabled Children's Team and Short Breaks Team and hearing about the positive difference they make. I was particularly struck by how closely they work with families and partner organisations to help children access opportunities and get the support they need to thrive. From helping families navigate services to providing activities that build confidence and independence, their work impacts the lives of children, young people and families every day."

28/08/2026

A new school year is almost here, but there's one thing Year 6 parents and carers shouldn't forget.

If your child will be starting secondary school in September 2027, applications are now open.

It only takes a few minutes to apply online, and you'll find our secondary school guide packed with useful information to help you prepare for the next big step.

Apply by 31 October 2026 at barnsley.gov.uk/schooladmissions.

28/08/2026

Our Adult Skills and Pathways to Work advisors will be at a number of events across Barnsley throughout the next month including:

• Saturday 29 August - Family Hubs at The Glass Works - 10am to 3pm
• Saturday 5 September - Family Hubs at The Glass Works - 10am to 3pm
• Tuesday 15 September - Family Hubs Central - 1pm to 3pm
• Monday 21 September - Goldthorpe Library - 10am to 3pm
• Tuesday 22 September - Family Hubs Central - 1pm to 3pm
• Friday 25 September - Dearne Family Hub Marketplace Event - 12pm to 3.30pm
• Wednesday 30 September - Dearneside Your Space Stand - 2pm to 5pm

Come and see us to find out more about our range of courses, including English, Maths and Digital, and to discuss how you can get the support you need to find work.

28/08/2026

If you're planning a trip to your local Household Waste Recycling Centre this Bank Holiday weekend, be sure to allow extra time for your visit.

Planning a trip to the tip this bank holiday weekend? ♻️

We're expecting our recycling centres to be extremely busy while drainage improvement works are taking place at our Smithies Recycling Centre.

Please allow extra time for your visit and expect longer queues than usual. Traffic management will be in place at some sites to help keep things moving safely.

✅ If you can, visit later in the day when sites are generally quieter.
✅ Worsbrough Recycling Centre is open until 7pm.

Thanks for your patience while these important works are carried out.

You can find your nearest HWRC on our website https://www.barnsley.gov.uk/services/bins-rubbish-and-recycling/household-waste-recycling-centres/find-a-household-waste-recycling-centre/

27/08/2026

Sometimes, succeeding isn’t about trying harder. It’s about having the right support.

Mostapha had one clear goal: achieve his Level 2 Maths qualification so he could apply to university. After previous setbacks, Adult Skills & Community Learning provided the personalised support, tailored teaching and adaptations he needed to succeed.

Today, he’s achieved his qualification and is one step closer to making his ambition a reality.