Links
All
104 films
104 films are a Sheffield film production company set up to make original feature films for a global audience and create a paradigm shift in the representation of disabled and disadvantaged talent in front of and behind the camera. Their work has included "No Fixed Abode", about homelessness, where the production team included homeless trainees.
20s Plenty For Sheffield
Sheffield branch of the growing movement arguing for a 20mph speed limit in all residential areas, for all sorts of good reasons.
Abundance
A project to harvest local fruit like apples, pear and plums left because people do not notice them, or cannot harvest them, mainly between August and October. Abundance is a team of volunteers who help to gather city fruit and redistribute on a non-profit basis to community cafes, nurseries, Surestarts and individuals. They also make juice, jams, chutneys and preserves. If you have a fruit tree and want help, get in touch, you will get the first share. Harvester volunteers, processors and distributors also welcome.
Access Space
Open-door, free media lab developing skills, community, fun and creativity with help, free open-source software (Linux), all with recycled computers, in the town centre. Also provides a web design service, see http://design.access-space.org
Action for Involvement
A Sheffield-based think tank which runs free events, open to everyone, to stimulate debate and educate people on ways to get involved in community decisions to improve the quality of their lives. It's all about increasing value for money from service providers through greater community involvement, corporate social responsibility, public-private partnerships etc....
AFC Unity football club
AFC Unity is an alternative football club for women. It brings the game back to the grassroots, beyond the influence of profit, where the football club plays an active role in its community. It is engaging and empowering women as positive role models, and using the sport to encourage unity, solidarity, and social cohesion.
African in Sheffield
Information focussed on Sheffield's African community, on sexual health issues and support services and the African Sexual Health Peer Education team.
Airy Fairy
Airy Fairy, on London Road in Sheffield, is a small gift shop & coffee shop with ethics and philosophies of creativity, education and love for the planet, individual, local and world communities. It specialises in alternative gifts, local art, reclaimed timber picture framing, Fair Trade coffees & tea, homemade organic and vegetarian cakes and lunches. Upstairs there is also a comfortable meeting room where regular workshops are held.
Alpha Tenant Management Co-operative
A co-operative which manages over a hundred flats owned by Sanctuary Housing, in Hyde Park Terrace and Hyde Park Walk. Their base is 14 Hyde Park Walk, S2 5LX. There is no website, but they are pleased to help with any queries, telephone Sheff 2757439.
Alt-Sheff
This website, the guide to radical, ethical alternatives in Sheffield, is an autonomous co-operative. To get events listed click Submit Event on the homepage.
Amnesty International
An international movement of ordinary people standing up for human rights, producing extraordinary results; prisoners of conscience released, death sentences removed, torturers brought to justice, governments persuaded to change. The Sheffield group meets on the second Wednesday of every month (except August).
Appletrees.org.uk
Julian Brandram offers talks, fruit growing courses, pruning, planting and selling fruit trees and soft fruit bushes. Specialising in traditional varieties, he also re-propagates, re-plants and advises. There is an extensive list of fruit trees at low prices, for sale from autumn to spring.
Ask My Community
Ask My Community is like a local Facebook, it offers facilities like blogging, promoting events and campaigns, conducting opinion polls, discussions and networking.
Aspire
Aspire is a Hillsborough based charity and social enterprise which provides stable supportive work for vulnerable or marginalised people. Supported in part by funders and volunteers it aims to become self supporting through business activities. The range of activities includes recycling and re-selling donated items, and a pack-and-post service. Contributions of items are welcome, and if you're looking out for computer or something, check them out.
ASSIST Rotherham
Working to provide some support to destitute asylum seekers when all the support they have been receiving from government is withdrawn following a final negative decision on an asylum claim. Not allowed to work, many become destitute, struggling daily for food, accommodation and clothing. There are about 1000 destitute asylum seekers in Sheffield alone. Volunteers are always welcome, and ASSIST run volunteer induction evenings. They also run great benefit concerts with food!
ASSIST Sheffield
Working to provide some support to destitute asylum seekers when all the support they have been receiving from government is withdrawn following a final negative decision on an asylum claim. Not allowed to work, many become destitute, struggling daily for food, accommodation and clothing. There are about 1000 destitute asylum seekers in Sheffield alone. Volunteers are always welcome, and ASSIST run volunteer induction evenings. They also run great benefit concerts with food!
Asylum Journey Sheffield
A website with information about services and resources for asylum seekers and refugees in Sheffield. Created by Sheffugees it is a comprehensive and easily searchable resource for people at each stage of the asylum process. Information on the asylum process, legal support, accommodation, health, finance, education and more.
Bag It Don't Bin It
Organic Fair Trade cotton bags, made in Sheffield including designs like I Love Sheffield
Bank Street Arts
A charitable arts organisation, proudly unfunded and independent, near the market and cathedral. It offers a cafe alongside galleries, studios, offices, workshops and project spaces. Ongoing events range from contemporary art installations to poetry readings and discussions.
Barnsley Freegle
Freegle means Free Giving, Locally, Easily. It's an online re-use network, an alternative to Freecycle, for people to keep stuff out of landfill by giving away things they don't want, to people who can use them. Joining involves having a Yahoo account, which is free and easy. Most towns have a group, and Barnsley's was started in 2010.
Beanies
Wholefood co-op, Crookes Valley Road. Huge range including organic fresh fruit and veg. Open 7 days a week, till 8pm on weekdays. All vegetarian or vegan. Excellent - worth living in Crookes for, and they deliver
Bike Rehab
Small business specialising in service and repair, even broken bicycle SOS collection and delivery, if you have a breakdown. Also secure cycle parking with changing room and lockers, and friendly maintenance classes. It's right in the city centre near Devonshire Green. What more could you ask?
Bio UK Fuels
Fuel suitable for diesel engines, made from locally sourced cooking oil. Save money, cut pollution, new supplies of cooking oil also wanted. Available Mon. to Sat. 7.30am to 6.00pm at Unit 17, Newhall Road Industrial Estate, Sheffield S9 2TW
BitFixIT
A group of great volunteers who enjoy mending computers to help the community. Bring your computer on Saturdays 12pm-3pm to Abbeyfield Park House, S4 7AT (Note: previously Verdon Street). It’s on a ’pay as you feel’ basis. They also offer a professional service, visiting homes and offices to look at your computer and tell you what’s wrong, for £20 per hour with no obligation or hidden fees.
Black Rope Walking Group
Black Rope Walking Group is a good excuse for libertarians and anarchists to get together for pleasant days walking and chatting in the hills and industrial valleys around Sheffield. Not forgetting refreshments in pubs along the way. Newcomers welcome, contact email: sheffield @ af-north.org
Blue Moon cafe
Vegetarian and vegan licensed cafe, friendly atmosphere, great food, popular and busy and lunchtime. They also provide outside catering and the place can be hired as a venue with food.
2 James Street, Sheffield S1 2EW (near the cathedral tram stop) Tel. Sheff. 276 3443
Books for a Better Future reading group
A reading group based in Sheffield Central Library, started in 2010. They read books that they hope will inspire a better future: green politics, etc. Meets on the second Wednesday of the month at 6pm in the library.
Brambles Housing Co-operative
Brambles is a long-running vegetarian/vegan housing co-op in Burngreave, with two neighbouring houses and gardens. It is ecological and anarchic in focus. Sometimes they have vacancies for new members. No website. Tel Sheff. 2797164 or email: brambles@riseup.net
Burger Lols
New for 2016, Burger Lols (on Abbeydale Road near the Broadfield/Antiques Quarter) sells satisfying healthy food. Prices are reasonable, and extras like drinks are not a rip-off either. And it is ALL vegan.
Burngreave Community Radio
Uniting, informing and entertaining the community, including community projects and languages, broadcasting on 103.1 FM. Founded by local legend Aisha Special K
Burngreave Foodbank
Schools, churches, businesses and individuals donate food to foodbanks, where volunteers sort and store it ready for people in crisis. Frontline care professionals such as doctors, health visitors, social workers, CAB and police identify people in need and issue them with a foodbank voucher.
Burngreave Messenger
Quite simply the best community news service in the city, great website as well. If you live in North Sheffield check out what's going on. If you don't, move there!
Burton Street Foundation
Based in Hillsborough, Burton Street is a friendly centre for over 50 businesses and organisations and also supports adults and older children with learning and physical difficulties. Facilities include a café, gym, sports hall, bar, hairdresser, beauty salon, meeting rooms and conference suite. And it has events open to the public.
CADS (Creative Arts Development Space)
A charity providing affordable spaces for rent in various sites around Sheffield, from small rooms to performance space. Other facilities include digital media centre, CNC router, 3D printer, photo studio, sound and lighting, bar and catering.
Cafeology
Based in Meersbrook, this company supplies coffees, chocolate, sugars and stuff, all completely Fairtrade and ethical. Originally they sold to the 'out of home market' but now they also offer online sales - see the website
Centre for Welfare Reform
The Centre for Welfare Reform is a Sheffield-based organisation spanning the UK and beyond. It is described as a community of independent thinkers, innovators and leaders dedicated to equality and diversity, and making human rights real.
Change AGEnts
The older people’s participation co-operative has a vision of a society of all ages, based on human rights, contribution, co-operation, and citizenship. Much public policy is based on what older people can NOT do, but older people are all of us, simply older. Change AGEnts re-enforces this message by direct engagement of older people in partnership with civic and civil organisations, in discussion, capacity building and networking, based on co-operative principles.
Chesterfield Freegle
Please do not throw your old stuff away. Someone, somewhere may still find it useful. Freegle means Free Giving, Locally, Easily. It's an online re-use network, an alternative to Freecycle, for people to keep stuff out of landfill by giving away things they don't want, to people who can use them. Joining involves having a Yahoo account, which is free and easy. Most towns have a group, and this is Chesterfield's.
Cinema Coatimundi
A Sheffield-based collective which shows films and raises money for activist groups and projects. Screenings take place on the last Sunday of the month, and there is always vegan food available.
Cinema Syndicate
Cinema Syndicate is an anarchist cinema collective which shows of political and activist films for FREE. This happens almost every Tuesday night, at least when Lecture Theatre 2, The Arts Tower, University of Sheffield is open, which is the usual venue. Events are open to all. They say that Anarchism is not an argument to be won or a cause to sign up to. It is a process.
City Car Club
Sheffield's pay-as-you-go alternative to owning your own car. Car clubs (used with other sustainable travel modes) can limit the dependency on car ownership, use and side-effects. Established in 1999, City Car Club is a commercial company, operating at a variety of locations across Britain.
City Hearts
City Hearts is a charity to support vulnerable people, with services including residential houses across the UK. They are part of the national support provision helping victims of human trafficking.
City of Sanctuary
Sheffield was the first UK city to become a City of Sanctuary. The organisation involves dozens of groups working to build a culture of hospitality and welcome for asylum-seekers and refugees.
They provide information and activities from offering friendship, advocacy and language exchanges, to organised walks, solidarity protests and emergency accommodation
Climate Action Calendar
Have a protest or meeting about the climate to publicise? Do it here! Service provided by Climate Action Network for Yorks and Humber.
Climate Action Network Yorkshire & Humber
This network raises the profile of climate change in our region, not by running events or campaigns but by publicising what is already happening. See their newsletters web page above, and also click their home page tab for more details.
Co-operatives Yorkshire & Humber
A Regional Co-operative Council, to raise the profile of co-ops and represent their interests. It encourages mutual support, inter-trading and networking, sharing best practice, training and development. The elected board is drawn from various types of co-operative organisation.
Common Ground Centre
Common Ground is based around the old St Peters Hall, Machon Bank S7 (next to Abbeydale Road). The project has meeting rooms and a large hall available for hire inexpensively. They also work on a community garden outside, on Saturday mornings, and new members are welcome. Contact via Grow Sheffield or email timdoyle@hotmail.co.uk
Community Composting Network
National organisation, based in Sheffield, promoting at a national level community management and use of bio- degradable waste. A network of around 200 members, it produces guides, newsletters, and holds an annual conference
Community Printworks
This social enterprise offers a low cost, quality print service, whilst giving people with disabilities work opportunities. A real local alternative to high street glossy printers, they provide a personalized service, with quick turnaround and free local delivery.
Conversation Club
On a regular basis since 2002, volunteers have been meeting to chat and have social activities with new arrivals to Sheffield. This helps with language practice and confidence building, and finding out about the city and what it offers.
CPRE
Campaign to Protect Rural England: CPRE South Yorkshire promotes the beauty, tranquillity and diversity of the South Yorkshire countryside, encouraging the sustainable use of land and other natural resources in town and country. An independent charity (the local branch of the national CPRE network), membership is open to all. It welcomes help by donating or volunteering.
Critical Mass Sheffield
Not so much a group as an idea - once a month, massed bands of cyclists flood city roads around the world to reclaim the streets for the most environmentally friendly, fun form of transport. Everyone welcome, just bring a bike and tag along.
Cycle Experience
Cycle Experience run cycle training courses for beginners, more confident cyclists and family groups. Training equips people with the skills essential for making cycling trips on roads and all instructors are accredited to the national standard, CRB checked and first aid trained.
Cycle Penistone
Cycling project supported by local volunteers to promote cycling for all, by bike hire as well as technical maintenance. Penistone is the highest market town in the county, at the foot of the Pennines. It has reservoirs, woodland, spectacular views, several village centres and areas like the moors at Langsett where you can walk for hours and not meet anyone.
CycleBoost
The FREE three-part cycling support service for residents and employees in Sheffield. Loan a bike, learn how to ride confidently, and learn how to fix your bike. CycleBoost is delivered on behalf of Sheffield City Council. The help even covers help with route planning. (and note also the Sheffield Cycle Map).
Cycles in Motion
Don't worry they'll come to you! This is a mobile bicycle repair service, also offering home maintenance classes and guided rides. Keen and experienced mountain bikers who love cycling, and are fully qualified.
CycleSheffield
CycleSheffield is THE force for cycle promotion in Sheffield. Anyone who cycles should join CycleSheffield (from just £4 per year) and walkers should belong too, because a cycle-friendly environment is also a walking-friendly environment. They run socials, rides, fun and campaigning as a key part of the coalition that aims to bring a sea-change to attitudes to sustainable transport in our city.
CycleSheffield is part of the national federation of cycle promotion groups in the UK, Cyclenation and they also have a lively Sheffield cycling news and views website at www.scoop.it/t/cyclesheffield
Derek's Bookshelf
Local second-hand book lover Derek appears at fayres and festivals around Sheffield, and also sells online and at Regather Works (which is also on this listing). His motto is: Turning read into green!
Down to Earth
Wholefood shop in Sharrowvale, must be one of Sheffield's longest-running existing co-operatives. Excellent food, nice people, what more do you need? Well, a website, OK but what else? 406 Sharrow Vale road, Sheffield, S11 8ZP Tel. Sheff. 268 5220
E.D.E.N. Film Productions
A social enterprise based in Sheffield, specialising in running film-making workshops, many with the LGBT+ community, and producing campaigns promoting diversity, equality and rights. (E.D.E.N. stands for Equality and Diversity to Educate and Nurture.)
East End Quality of Life Initiative
Air quality in the east of Sheffield is at shockingly poor levels. The East End Quality of Life Initiative (EEQOL) is a community led project campaigning about this and other issues.
Ecclesall Woods Craft Courses
Craft courses with expert tuition, ranging from green wood skills to kids courses, coracle-making, besom broom-making and bronze casting. It all takes place in the beautiful Ecclesall Woods at J G Graves Woodland Discovery Centre (off Abbey Lane, S7 2QZ) which is a unique exhibition space for people using sustainable local timber, part of the sustainable tree cycle through community initiatives and businesses.
Eco Eco
Organic and ethical clothes shop for men, women and children. Open Tues.-Sun. 10am-4.30pm (The Courtyard, 10 Castleton Road, Hope. Tel. 01433 623113).
They also run a home shop (Bank House, Market Place, Hope. Tel. 01433 621280) for eco-friendly paints, organic bedlinen and towelling, non-toxic bodycare and cleaning products, gifts and accessories for the sustainable home.
(Hope is in Derbyshire - just outside Sheffield on the Sheffield-Manchester trainline)
Eco Sofas
Don't get rid, re-upholster. Save the environment a bit more by having your old furniture re-covered. Eco Sofas offer a range of fabrics (not real leather, good!!) and recycle as much as possible. They'll come out to your home with samples and give a free estimate.
Edge Of The Universe Printing Press
This DIY printing press supports others in making zines (short for fanzines; mini-magazines) putting words/pictures on paper, or on the internet. Zines can be about anything you want, why not make your own?
Ediculture Network
Growing plants to eat is the basis of "Ediculture". This Sheffield-based network is linked with regular courses and activities based on long-established and wide-ranging expertise in organic food growing.
Education Otherwise
Supports parents who choose to educate their kids out of school (which doesn't have to cost a fortune, follow the National Curriculum, or require a qualified teacher). Tel. 0845 478 6345. There is a thriving home ed community in Sheffield with many group activities organised by local parents.
(See also Sheffield Home Educators Network below)
EduMake
A Sheffield-based co-operative working with free open-source software for inspiring digital making and learning. It uses open technologies and produces learning materials and occasional workshops.
Environmental Learning Centre
Established in 2010 in a beautiful oak-framed building on Fulwood Road, this centre offers a service for school children and the wider community. It provides outdoor-based environmental education sessions and activities, relating to the local and global environment. It is also a venue for hire, with an area of semi-ancient woodland, pond and wildlife garden, and also a range of new technology installed including laptops, data projection, hand-held devices, data-recording equipment, video editing software and fieldwork equipment. The website even has bird-box webcams running!
Equinox Co-op
Equinox is a new co-operative that offers a professional coaching and advocacy service for long term unemployed people and people who suffer from any kind of discrimination. This co-operative has an ethical base and is really innovative. Have a look at the website and see how you can get involved.
Ethics Trading
An eco-friendly and fair trade business, committed to causing no harm to the earth, its ecosystem or its varied peoples and cultures - based in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, also selling over the internet.
Home and garden products, skincare etc.
Feminist Poster Project
This website archives and shares feminist posters, postcards and stickers for you to print and paste, to encourage designing and sharing feminist posters and putting up them in public places. Sexist advertisement and misogynist media are all around us. If we want to fight this patriarchal propaganda, we have to produce our own images and messages. You can contribute your own self-made posters, postcards and stickers too.
Fireside Housing Co-op
Long-established housing co-operative in Burngreave. Based in four terraced houses there is lots of green space and wildlife, and plenty of room for playing, growing organic veg, bonfires and parties. Many of the co-op members are involved with local community groups.
Frack Free South Yorkshire
Fracking threatens toxic and radioactive water contamination, air pollution, lorries, noise and light pollution, wells and pipelines blighting communities, and accelerates climate change. The fightback in South Yorkshire is here. (See also Sheffield Against Fracking.)
Free University of Sheffield
A student-based group which opposes neoliberal government attacks on education and marketisation of universities. Instead they are trying alternative models of democratic learning which can transform society.
Friends of the Earth
Making life better for people by inspiring solutions to environmental problems. The Sheffield group is very active and meets in the city centre
Gay Sheffield
The Sheffield website for information on coming out, staying safe, support groups and much more.
Global Justice Rotherham
The Rotherham branch of Global Justice Now, the organisation formerly known as World Development Movement (WDM), which investigates and campaigns on the root causes of global poverty and injustice. Activist groups work alongside people in the developing world to tackle the underlying real causes of world poverty, standing up to injustice, lobbying decision makers, and researching positive alternatives. This is the Rotherham group, there is also a Sheffield one (see below).
Global Justice Sheffield
Activist group working alongside people in the developing world to tackle the underlying real causes of world poverty, standing up to injustice, lobbying decision makers, and researching positive alternatives. Formerly called World Development Movement (WDM). This is the Sheffield group, there is also a Rotherham one (see above).
Golden Harvest
Books, magazines, herbs and seed suppliers, a great head shop established since 1998. Bong! Happy birthday! Now in bigger premises with a coffee lounge at 74 Cambridge Street S1 4HP. Tel. Sheff. 2491311
Good Taste – the Sheffield Fair Trade Shop
Fair trade shop at 195 Whitham Road, Sheffield, Broomhill S10 2SN. They provide a wide range of high quality fair trade products from around the world in an informative and transparent environment. Also sale or return to voluntary groups who wish to make use of fair trade products.
Green City Action
Committed to raising awareness of environmental issues in the multicultural community around north Sheffield, and working together to improve the environment for all. Their website (www.gca.burngreave.net) may not be updated but their Facebook page is worth a look.
Green Homes Sheffield
Setting up in 2014, Green Homes Sheffield aims to give householders ideas and confidence on making their homes more energy efficient. A range of homes across the city can show features like insulation, draught-proofing, solar panels, heat pumps, energy-efficient windows and extensions, and different levels of carbon saving, linked with trained volunteers, people who have already made the first moves, and trusted suppliers. The initiative is part of national network www.greenopenhomes.net
Green House Sheffield
Reducing energy use in the home, is it tricky? This group is doing it, blogging it, and providing a load of excellent useful information for the rest of us
Green Left
This is an anti-capitalist network within the Green Party looking towards an eco-socialist future, based on the assumption that capitalism is a system that wrecks the planet and promotes war. It's a national thing and they don't have Sheffield meetings, but a few local people are members and there's a lot of intelligent online discussion here
Green Party Trade Union Group
This is a grouping within the Green Party which aims to provide a discussion forum and support for Green Party members who sometimes find themselves in a minority in their trade unions. It aims to further good relations between the Green Party and trade unions, and the labour movement generally
Green Roof Centre
An independent research and publicity organisation, promoting green roofs. Not a lot of people know that there are benefits to having plants all over your roof. Sheffield has a national demonstration site to show how it works
Green Scene
The Sheffield Star (newspaper) collects together green-themed news and blogs for an online environment section. Hardly 'alternative' but it's useful to see what's going on and what people are discussing
Green Spirit Hydroponics
Growing plants without soil can be highly productive, conserving water and land, and protecting the environment. This Sheffield city centre equipment supplier offers a large shop and advice from qualified staff.
Greenpeace
Environmental activism big time. The link above is the UK Greenpeace website, for local activities call 01226 248702 or see Greenpeace South Yorkshire web-page
Groundwork Sheffield
If you want to get your hands dirty with a broad range of environmental projects look into this large organisation.
Grow Sheffield
Working for a vision of urban food growing landscapes. Events and activities, exchange ideas and get involved
Growtheatre
A youth theatre company with a difference: Growtheatre develops theatre inspired by our environment and landscape, bringing about a greater sense of community and belonging. Currently (2013-2014) they run a weekly Youth Theatre for children aged 9+ and education projects in schools.
Guat Shoes (vegan shoes)
Guat is a long-established Sheffield company that makes shoes including vegan ones (non-leather). They are really solid quality and last for years, unlike the cheap rubbish in high street shops.
Guerrilla Gardening
Direct Action against the visual pollution of neglected land. Get in and get planting. Guerrilla Gardening has taken off around the world; the link above is the Sheffield and Rotherham part of a large discussion forum and website, guerrillagardening.org
Handspring Design
A multidisciplinary practice doing ecologically-focused timber structures, shelters, seats and stuff with features like alternative roofing materials and solar powered lighting. They've worked for several years, for public, private and community organisations. One of several eco-businesses based at Ecclesall Woods Sawmill, Abbey Lane, Sheffield.
Hannah Directory
The Hannah Directory is a great resource for stuff happening across the North of England (including Alt-Sheff, of course!) named after inspirational northern activist Hannah Mitchell. The website, blog, social media channels and printed directory combine to form a unique experiment, a space for connecting and sharing skills, inspiration, and new kinds of knowledge.
Founder Andy Wilson says “The North has changed. But change isn't only a bad thing. It opens up new possibilities. Now we can make our North of England into anything we want it to be. It's up to us. We just have to say we are going to do it, and then do it. But I don't think that people and places in the North can do that only working by themselves, I think there has to be talking, sharing and cooperating.”
Putting these words into practice, Hannah Festival's free printed directory is distributed by fair exchange of time instead of money. Would you drop off copies of the directory at a good spot where flyers get picked up, in return for publicity about what you're involved in?
Harland Cafe
Ethical and organic cafe, good vibes, nice people, licenced, free wi-fi and free drinks with food orders. The venue, 72 John Street Sheffield S2 4QU (next to CCC, near The Edge climbing place) was formerly called Cafe Euro. Tel. Sheff. 2738553
Hazelhurst Community Supported Agriculture Co-operative
A group which owns a 9 acre field in the Moss Valley to grow a weekly supply of fruit and vegetables for members, using Community Supported Agriculture (CSA), permaculture and co-operative principles.
HeartCure Clothing
A proudly non-profit company, selling ethical clothing, started 2016. Profits go into more clothes, and to supporting Brook Farm Animal Sanctuary, http://www.heartcureclothing.com/brook-farm-sanctuary. Always on the lookout for collaboration; if you want to design a T-Shirt, host a charity event, make a video with them or ask them to sponsor your band, get in touch!
Hector and Cedric
Long established builders of low-impact, sustainable, timber-framed buildings, using locally produced hardwood. One of several eco-businesses based at Ecclesall Woods Sawmill, Abbey Lane, Sheffield.
Heeley City Farm
Community-based farm centre which leads the way on environmental good stuff, all free, great for a visit, specially with kids. Also has offshoots like South Yorkshire Energy Centre, community cafe and garden centre.
About 2km from city centre. Open 10am-4pm most days.
Hollaback
Street harassment has nothing to do with sex, it's about power and abuse. Comments, groping, public masturbation, or worse, these are not 'flirting'. If it makes you feel uncomfortable, it's not okay. We DON'T need to 'take it as a compliment'. Street harassment is a gateway crime that opens the door to other forms of gender-based violence. Hollaback is doing something about street harassment, along with thousands of other people. Have a look at the website to find out how.
HOPE
A project of Enactus Sheffield, a local, student-run social enterprise that works with survivors of human trafficking and abuse, in Sheffield. Through jewellery making enterprise, they teach the women vital business and employability skills so they can find the confidence to rebuild their lives. Their handmade jewellery is sold at craft fairs, events and shops, with revenue used to support safe houses and the project, empowering and encouraging these women. See also the inspiring work that Enactus does: www.enactussheffield.org
Iconic Eco Smart Solutions
A Green Network for South Yorkshire? Or just a good idea that became a dead website? Not much happening at last glance (2010)
Ignite Imaginations
A community environmental arts organisation (formerly called Art in the Park, established 2003). They provide high quality arts activities throughout Sheffield and the surrounding areas, particularly in areas where there is little opportunity to engage. Tel Sheff 2686813
Industrial Workers of the World (IWW) Sheffield
The IWW is a grassroots, democratic union helping to organise all workers in all workplaces. Unlike traditional trade unions, they believe that workers have greater voice if organised within our own industries. (For example teachers, cleaners and secretaries who work in a school should be classed as education workers, and all be in the same union.) The IWW is not full of stifling bureaucracy or linked to any political party, nor led by fat-cat salary earners who carry out deals with bosses behind your back. Their aim is to see society re-organised to meet the interests of all people, not just shareholders and corporations.
J E James Cycles
Established for over 50 years, now one of the largest independent cycle retailers in the UK, J E James has stores in Sheffield, Rotherham and Chesterfield. They stock a wide selection of all types including electric and folding bikes, a huge range of accessories and clothing - and also offer maintenance to ensure your bike is kept running smoothly.
Janus Project
Janus Project works with domestic abusers in order to address and change their behaviour. It is the only such voluntary programme in the Sheffield district. Contact them if you want practical help with anger management, managing your temper, or violent behaviour, in a safe and supportive environment, to break the cycle of abuse using proven anger management techniques. They also offer support to current or ex-partners of the men accessing the programme.
Karl Marx's 'Capital' reading group
The original work analysing the capitalism system, Karl Marx's 'Capital' is a huge book. This Sheffield group meets to discuss it, along with David Harvey's lectures, available free on video at www.davidharvey.org. Newcomers to the group are welcome; for details of meetings click to send an email
Kelham Island Books and Music
A quite large shop, newly opened in 2018 at 284 Shalesmoor, by David Granville who previously ran Books on the Park just off Ecclesall Road. Good selection of second hand and new stuff.
LaDIYFest Sheffield
LaDIYFest Sheffield is a DIY, anti-capitalist, community based, feminist festival run by volunteers, led primarily by women but all are welcome to get involved. It aims to highlight female and LGBTQ art, projects and activism in the community, promoting social change in a non-discriminatory environment through music, performance art, spoken word, films, discussions, art exhibitions and practical workshops etc.
Lady of Shallott
Vegetarian and vegan nut-free food, even a delivery service, at 11 Cemetery Road, Sheffield S11 8FN
Laser Credit Union, Rotherham
Credit unions are member-owned cooperatives for saving and borrowing. Much better than any bank for ethical savings and cheap loans. They are closely regulated by the government authorities for security, and they provide excellent benefits and services. Membership is open to all in Rotherham.
Learn For Life Enterprise
This community hub on London Road, in the culturally and ethnically diverse area of Sharrow, offers training, support, stability and advice in a friendly and welcoming environment. They look after local residents, vulnerable members of the community, refugees, asylum seekers, BME communities and older people. They offer conversation classes in Sharrow and the city centre, English for speakers of other languages (ESOL), maths, digital media, computer skills, Arabic, Chinese, French, Spanish, music, arts and crafts, and much more.
Lembas
Your favourite food online, 100% vegetarian, loads of vegan stuff, organic, Fair-Trade and all 100% free of GMOs (genetically modified organisms). A brilliant long-established business they deliver within an 80+ mile radius of Sheffield.
LGBT Pop-Up Café
The LGBT Café opens every Tuesday, 10.30am-5.30pm at the Union Street co-operative in the city centre, 18-20 Union St. S1 2JR. All welcome.
LGBT Sheffield
LGBT Sheffield is a volunteer-led group aiming to give Sheffield a unique, centralised and shared LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) identity, bringing together the various groups, communities and services within the city.
Liberty
If you think civil liberties are part of American history you're missing some news. Detention without trial, deportation to torture and removal of rights to speech and protest are creeping into the UK. Liberty campaigns for civil and human rights, and a Sheffield group is being set up (2008) Tel. Sheff. 242 3511
Love from Bolivia
Small Sheffield business selling Fair Trade Bolivian alpaca knitwear blankets, throws, dolls and cushion covers. All handmade, superfine quality and more importantly supporting a Fair Trade cottage industry and community projects in Bolivia
Low Carbon Network
The Low Carbon Network hosted by the Business Environment Centre [BEC] of British Trust for Conservation Volunteers [BTCV]. The aim of this Network is to bring together VCF sector organisations with an interest in city-wide carbon reduction. Network activities have included; influencing the City Council's Low Carbon Strategy, and pulling together information about how the VCF sector contributes Carbon Reduction. Future plans include taking forward the development of a Steering Group for the network and having an electronic presence on the 'Sheffield is My Planet Website' [SIMP] website. Membership is open to all VCF organisations / individuals with an interest in carbon reduction for the city.
BTCV Business Environment Centre [BEC]: Sheff 2901255 Email: information@btcv.org.uk
Low-Impact Living Initiative (LILI)
A non-profit organisation helping people to reduce their consumption, and gain quality of life and new skills, with fun courses at various Sheffield venues. Their website is really useful as well
Maggie's Dead.com
Margaret Thatcher was the 1980s Conservative prime minister who brought destruction to industries and working class communities like South Yorkshire. The deliberately engineered miners' strike smashed the unions. Repressive laws banned many freedoms to party and protest. Public assets were sold cheaply into private hands, and the bankers got massively richer. Hardly surprising that many people anticipated this death with less than sympathy and respect.
Magic Lantern Film Club
Community pop-up cinema for Sheffield. MLFC does screenings of rare, unusual, well-loved and just plain good films at venues where you would not normally see a film. They bring the shared cinema experience to local community spaces and unusual places.
Make No Bones
Vegan catering, 100% good food provided by a group of friends with years of experience in the trade. They offer pop-up restaurants, events catering and a mobile vegan snack bar, "The Horsebox". Workers also volunteer for conservation and animal welfare organisations, and donate a percentage of profits to the Black Fish organisation, which works to end illegal over-fishing.
Make No Bones cafe
A great vegan cafe run by caterers Make No Bones, at 85 Chesterfield Road, Sheffield S8 0RN (opposite B&M Bargains). Very well recommended. Facebook page: facebook.com/MakeNoBonesVegan
Manor Castle Green Party
The Green Party blog for Manor Castle.
Well worth a look, frequently updated, it covers environmental issues both locally and more generally.
Mapping barriers on cycle routes
Some Sheffield cycle paths have barriers across, making life difficult for many users of bikes, trikes, wheelchairs or scooters. Do you know where there are more? Cycle Sheffield member Sam Wakeling is constructing this map and invites examples, ideally with detailed location and photo/video.
Medsin
Medsin is an activist network of students with an interest in health. Activities aim to promote health as well as to act upon and educate students about health inequalities in our local and global communities. Get involved to join in working towards a world in which high-quality, accessible healthcare is a reality for all.
MESH Community Cohesion Services
A charity based in Sheffield dedicated to the use and promotion of mediation as a means of conflict resolution. That means getting both sides working together to sort out disputes, good common sense.
Money Advice Service
The Money Advice Service is a free service started by the UK Government to provide unbiased money advice and information without jargon. It's confidential and independent, so they're not trying to sell you anything. Could be useful if you've got money. Or even more useful if you haven't.
Morning Star Readers and Supporters Group
Britain's only socialist daily newspaper, long running, solid news from the original anti-capitalist perspective. Order it at newsagents or on-line.
Mule
Mule is "News with a kick", a not-for-profit, grassroots, project committed to using media production and mass distribution as a tool for promoting social, environmental and economic justice and peace. And it's based not far away, in Manchester. Well worth a look.
Mutual Aid Sheffield (MASH)
MASH is a voluntary group providing solidarity and support through direct action, for members with problems like crap landlords, housing issues, benefit claims, problems with access to public services, bullying and victimisation, sexual harassment, discrimination and unpaid wages, strikes, workplace actions and community struggles. The group is open to anyone, working or unemployed. It is non-hierarchical, independent of all political parties and trade unions, non-profit and self-organised.
Natural Building Specialists
Specialists in construction with respect for the environment, no job too small, unusual, or natural. Materials used based on their ecological performance and levels of embodied energy, Forest Stewardship Council certified timber, reclaimed and reused where possible. Expert guidance, skilled labour, and sensitive leadership to guide volunteers and involve local communities.
New Beginnings Refugee Project
This project helps refugees and asylum seekers to get into worthwhile volunteering opportunities. It also offers help to organisations wanting to involve refugees and asylum seeker volunteers through advice, good practice guidelines and translated resources. It is run by The Volunteer Centre Sheffield, part of Voluntary Action Sheffield.
New Internationalist
This well-respected magazine highlights the fight for global justice. Over 30 years old, run by an independent trust working as a not-for-profit cooperative. Oxford and internationally- based, it sells by subscription. Too expensive? Look in the library or see the website
New Roots
Radical campaigning cafe, wholefoods, groceries, and takeaway including vegan stuff. Run by volunteers and offering free water-bottle filling, and friendly chat. Two shops: Glossop Road and Spital Hill
No Zero Hours
A campaign against contracts where the employee is given no guaranteed amount of working hours, no sick pay, and can be hired and fired at will. Started by Sheffield Trades Council, with support from SY People's Assembly and Unite. Tel 07954 271582.
NO2ID
NO2ID is a campaigning organisation focussed on the threat to liberty and privacy posed by the rapid growth of the database state, of which "ID cards" are the most visible part. Entirely independent, they do not endorse any party, nor campaign on any other topic. A recent success (2010) was in getting the Identity Cards Act 2006 repealed, but the struggle goes on. The Sheffield group meets monthly.
Nomad
Campaigning, support and advice for people under the strains of social housing, council housing or homelessness. In a sea of difficulties, Nomad has been a lifeboat for two decades. Its Burngreave office deals with tenancy support, and its West Street office helps in other areas. Opportunities for volunteers also available. Tel. Sheff. 2755441
Northern Refugee Centre
NORTHERN REFUGEE CENTRE UNFORTUNATELY CLOSED IN DECEMBER 2015 DUE TO FUNDING CRISIS, AFTER MANY YEARS OF OFFERING THE FOLLOWING GOOD SERVICES.
Welcomes volunteers and offers services like mentoring, helping with integration into UK life. Also offers women-friendly advice sessions for refugees and asylum seekers on Wednesday mornings at Sheffield Advice Link, North Gallery, Castle Market, Sheffield. Translation can be arranged. Advice on asylum support and welfare benefits, maternity grants, domestic violence, NASS support problems and section 4, housing problem, employment and training, basic immigration queries (OISC).
Now Then
A free pro-active community magazine for Sheffield. An excellent read, with adverts only from independent traders, community groups and good causes. Available around the city and also downloadable back issues
Occupy Sheffield
After setting up at Cathedral Square, and later the Citadel of Hope, Occupy Sheffield continues to meet and organise against injustice and exploitation, as part of the worldwide movement of the "99%".
On The Brink cohousing community
Another new intentional cohousing community, this one refurbishing a house in Nether Edge. They intend to develop a multi-generational community where members have their own individual living space along with shared facilities for cooking, eating, gardening, meeting, relaxing and having fun. Their principles include companionship, ecological awareness and mutual respect in diversity, tolerance, co-operation, social cohesion and sharing with the wider community.
One Sheffield Many Cultures
One Sheffield Many Cultures was founded by various groups, to promote the unity of our city. Its events and publicity celebrate the contribution by people from all communities and backgrounds to Sheffield's proud tradition of opposition to racism, bigotry and prejudice.
One Step group
This group meets about once a month in the Upperthorpe/Walkley area of Sheffield for mutual help taking one practical step at a time to leave the world a better place. It covers a variety of topics, from local issues of home energy usage, gardening and food growing to international issues of human rights, trade justice and economics.
Open Kitchen Social Club
OKSC runs regular lunch events at St Andrew’s Church Hall, Upper Hanover Way, S3 7RQ. This provides food, support, and a place to meet for destitute asylum seekers, people in the asylum system and others who have received refugee status but struggle with changed circumstances, as well as anyone in the neighbourhood hit by food poverty (including “born and bred” British people). Food is provided free to those with no source of income and on a voluntary donations basis to anyone else. Food contributions are gratefully received, and many local shops and organisations help out. Cash donations are used to fund future events. A great boost to cohesion in the Sheffield community as the traditional “visitor” and “host” roles are often reversed in this family atmosphere. You might also find a game of chess or table tennis, or meet friends old and new.
Open Minds Theatre Company
Open Minds Theatre Company works in the community to assist in the developing and equipping of people to lead effective and fulfilled lives by improving their confidence, self-esteem, understanding of others and themselves, communication skills and self-discipline through their exposure to and involvement in drama. It works with different groups of disadvantaged people and is committed to using performance drama as a means of opening peoples' minds and combating bigotry and prejudice
Open Rights Group Sheffield
This group offers open meetings for anyone interested to discuss and learn about the various issues thrown up by new technology, Things like digital rights and privacy, copyright, "copyleft", open data, censorship and freedom of speech, software freedom and open source, social networking, digital inclusion, electronic democracy and internet law....
Opus Creations
Positive social change through non-corporate, independent community arts, music and charity events. From poetry to music, laptop trickery to DJs. And cheap accessible gigs. They also provide recording and rehearsal space Studio 45 and Bad Monkey - design, print and distribution service. And they broadcast weekly on Sheffield Live radio station - have a listen. They even run a magazine Now Then
Oughtibridge Woods Access Campaign
Because a footpath across the railway line at Station Lane, Oughtibridge, has been blocked up, the only access to Wharncliffe Woods is via the railway bridge on Oughtibridge Lane. The bridge is dangerous and narrow, the approaches from both sides have blind corners, and cars drive too quickly. There is an un-extinguished right of way at the location of the old crossing and this campaign is fighting for a new crossing across the railway.
Out Aloud
Sheffield's first gay choir, enabling members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities in Sheffield to come together and enjoy singing. It's open to everyone and no auditions are needed. You don't need to be an experienced singer or read music.
Out Nation
A welcoming and friendly community for LGBT people, the opportunity to discuss all aspects of gay life, and any other issue. Formerly called QueerUK, as the word queer is reclaimed by the gay community in modern usage as an inclusive, unifying umbrella term for people who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, transsexual or of any other non-heterosexual sexuality or gender identity.
Out/Side/Film
A grassroots community organisation and experimental film production company operating from Sheffield. Committed to improving opportunities and raising wider awareness and understanding of the issues faced by marginal and excluded communities. Projects are open and non-hierarchical collaborations with all participants. Activities include media skill-sharing, community blogs, peripheral social histories, experiments and documentary film - produced on tiny budgets but attracting widespread attention in the media.
Over-Ride Cycleworks
Friendly Sheffield mountain bike, commuter and road bike retailer, which also does servicing and maintenance, and supports local cycling groups and teams.
Party For The People
Party For The People is a non-profit organisation emerging from the vibrant underground UK music scene, to support charities through music events, ticket sales, and an online music magazine. They also run The Night Kitchen which gets young people from socially excluded backgrounds working with artists.
Peace Funerals
Award-winning and long established, Peace Funerals are pioneers in environmentally-friendly funerals and woodland burial grounds. A Fair Trade organisation and member of The Natural Death Society, they can advise on choices outside of the mainstream, as well as traditional funerals.
Peace In The Park
Sheffield's coolest, nicest, not-for-profit festival. It has been called "More a movement than an event". Sadly for the coming summer it is taking a break, because raising funds and volunteers every year is such a huge effort.
Peak District Cycleways
The National Park next door to Sheffield is great for cycling, despite the thousands of cars roaring through it. This is a really useful, independent website guide to environmentally friendly exploration. Routes are covered, with levels of effort needed, and local facilities from bike hire to cafes.
Pedal Ready
Sheffield's coolest, long-running, not-for-profit cycle training cooperative helping more people start cycling.
FREE urban cycle coaching for any Sheffield resident, community cycling projects, Learn to Ride days, bike check-ups, group cycling projects and more. Also news pages on cycling in Sheffield and beyond.
Peterloo
Peterloo secondhand bookshop is now closed, and replaced with welfare rights; offering talks and advice over the net, for individuals and community groups.
Portland Works
A group of volunteer tenants and supporters are ensuring the survival of one of the great buildings of Sheffield, built in 1877, by community purchase and social ownership. They offer low-cost workshop space to small manufacturing businesses and independent artists and craftspeople, a cross section of talent following in the footsteps of the "Little Mesters" who made Sheffield famous.
Positive Money
An organisation campaigning for monetary reform and an end to debt slavery, believing that the power to create money should be taken from the private banks and returned to the people to whom it properly belongs. The main UK website for Positive Money is at www.positivemoney.org.uk and the link above is for the Sheffield group.
Principle 5
The Sheffield base of Yorkshire Co-operative Resource Centre, a resource base and information centre about the co-operative movement. The name "Principle 5" refers to one of the International Co-operative Principles; Education.
Archive, information leaflets and materials to promote education about the co-operative movement - in theory, practice and in history. Based in Aizlewood Mill (a co-operative owned and run business centre).
Principle 5 Yorkshire Co-operative Resource Centre
The Sheffield base of Yorkshire Co-operative Resource Centre, a resource base and information centre about the co-operative movement. The name "Principle 5" refers to one of the International Co-operative Principles; Education.
Archive, information leaflets and materials to promote education about the co-operative movement - in theory, practice and in history. Based in Aizlewoods Mill (a co-operative owned and run business centre).
Project Paddington
Children can be deeply affected by the experience of migration, both those torn from their childhood home, and those who see events on the news. Project Paddington was started in Sheffield, for primary school children to send a teddy-bear, a drawing of themselves and a short note to a refugee child. They want to show the government that our children know how to share kindness, and to teach adults to do the same. The short video on the website explains in simple terms.
Pure on Raw
There are loads of places to get vegetarian food in Sheffield, but only this one which offers raw, vegan, gluten-free, GMO-free and diabetic-friendly food. Eat in or home delivered. Try it, it is great!
Rare and Racy
This shop is a Sheffield legend. Bigger on the inside than the outside, it has a fantastic, quirky collection. Second-hand books, prints and original paintings, many by Yorkshire and Derbyshire artists, and music on vinyl and CD (especially blues, jazz, improvised music, electronic, noise and other non commercial contemporary music: pay a visit just for the background music!)
RASAG IT Club
Sheffield Refugee Asylum Seeker Action Group IT Club. A friendly welcome, with internet access, literacy and help with computer skills, paired reading, and blog showing some of the work. At the moment (early 2013) this project is dormant, but see the various other Asylum Seeker organisations listed here.
Re-Made in Sheffield
A website to showcase Sheffield projects using recycled materials to serve another purpose. It offers information about ‘up-cycling’ second-hand materials, in an easily accessible website aimed at the public, organisations, architects and students.
Re-Open the Woodhead Line
The re-branded Save the Woodhead Tunnel has become Re-Open the Woodhead Line as they believe re-instating the trans-pennine route is now a real possibility. Campaign demanding the Government hold to their promises on sustainable transport and re-open this rail line between Manchester and Sheffield, including the Woodhead Tunnel near Glossop in the High Peak. Read more details on Indymedia - Woodhead Tunnel articles
Rebel Grrl Zine
Zines are personal or group-made, self-published magazines distributed through mail order and word of mouth. An extraordinary change from 'ordinary' glossy magazines. Radical and rebellious Rebel Grrl Zine is Sheffield-made, and available to buy via the website.
Recovery Insulation
A Sheffield-based social enterprise recycling denim jeans waste into high performance thermal and acoustic insulation! This uses some of the thousands of tonnes per year of textile waste that may otherwise go into landfill. They have fitted out buildings like the new Anns Grove School, and Inspire Bradford Business Park. What's more, some of the profits are donated to the Schools and Homes Energy Education Project, a Sheffield charity.
ReCycle Bikes at the Arches
Recycle Bikes training and DIY workshop space near Norfolk Bridge, just off Attercliffe Road. As well as bike maintenance courses, they offer a ‘bike kitchen’ on certain days, with rentable workstands and tools for you to fix your own bike (without buying expensive tools that you may only need occasionally.
ReCycleBikes
ReCycleBikes is run by an enthusistic and friendly group of volunteers and full timers. It does service and repairs, refurbished second hand bikes and new stuff, cycle spares and accessories, green oil (!), training, maintenance courses, and it even runs free rides for children and young people.
Recycling Revolution
Recycling Revolution is a local not-for-profit social enterprise which collects waste from businesses in Sheffield. All money goes back into the business to provide growth, employment of vulnerable people and donations to local charities.
Red Haus
Friendly bookstore and cafe on Abbeydale Road in Nether Edge, (opened 2018) with a good selection of radical politics, philosophy, feminism, art theory, visual culture etc. Also Korean food, and drinks including Zapatista coffee from radical autonomous collectives in Mexico.
Red Rope Socialist Walking/Climbing Club
A group in the long tradition of outdoor activities with like-minded people. Non-sexist, non-racist, non-elitist, they walk fortnightly on Sundays.
Regather
A co-operative based in the heart of the Little Sheffield community in Sharrow, just off London Road. Like all co-operatives it promotes the values of fairness, co-operation and common wealth. Various services are offered, along with opportunities for local volunteers, students and community organisations. Regather has a shop, a van and a trike, and trades locally made products and services including food, marquee hire and event management. It also offers room hire, with or without catering, and a programme of events. It has a fully registered kitchen, licensed bar and craft brewery.
Renters Rising
A union for people who rent, kicked off in Bristol (and in Sheffield at an event on 20th November 2016). They take action about bad conditions of housing, high rents, unfair fees and rogue landlords. The website link above is the national UK one, for Sheffield contact via email sheffield@acorncommunities.org.uk, call/text 07508 958011 or Facebook
Repair Sheffield
Repair Sheffield is all about repairing and re-using stuff, to save money, reduce pointless consumption, and get better use even out of things which are designed to break. The local economy and community benefits, and it is really empowering and good fun to learn do-it-yourself skills. The group runs occasional Repair Cafes, and welcomes volunteer repairers.
Residents Against Station Closure (RASC)
The pressure group campaigning to stop East Midlands Trains installing barriers at Sheffield Railway Station. The footbridge links communities and organisations on both sides of the station. Ticket barriers would prevent free access to the city centre or the tram stop behind the station, by foot, wheelchair or pushchair.
Ride Sheffield
MTB (mountain bike) advocacy group that uses the collective might of the mountain bike community to improve, preserve and promote access interests for mountain bikers.
RotherFed
Federation of Tenants and Residents Associations in Rotherham, a good active and inclusive local group.
Rotherham Foodbank
13 million people live below the poverty line in the UK. People go hungry for various reasons ranging from redundancy to receiving an unexpected bill whilst on a low income. Rotherham Foodbank provides emergency food and support. Non-perishable donated food is sorted and packed into emergency food boxes. Frontline care professionals such as doctors and social workers give to people in crisis foodbank vouchers exchangeable for 3 days of food. Foodbanks also take time to listen and signpost clients to further support.
Rotherham Freegle
Freegle means Free Giving, Locally, Easily. It's a new online re-use network, an alternative to Freecycle, for people to keep stuff out of landfill by giving away things they don't want, to people who can use them. Joining involves having a Yahoo account, which is free and easy. Because the Yahoo Group interface isn't totally easy to understand, there's a useful Rotherham Freegle Message Maker, so make a note of this web page if you sign up. Each Freegle group is a grassroots co-operative run by and for local people. Rotherham's also has a Freegle Café Group for members to chat about anything and to promote local businesses.
Rotherham In Root
A community group of Rotherham volunteers who inspire people and communities to grow more of their food, and develop opportunities and activities for food growing.
Rotherham L.G.B.T
Rotherham-based support and social group for people from the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community in South Yorkshire. They also offer social meetings and events, welcoming old and new members.
Rotherham LGBT Youth Group
This group offers a safe and confidential meeting place for young people in Rotherham who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or in any way questioning their gender or sexuality. One-to-one support is also available. Free and welcoming, run by RMBC (the council). For more information call 07748 143280
Rotherham MB Forum
Online Rotherham discussion forum, which seems to have disappeared recently. Anyone know of ANY Rotherham forums operating please email us ... thanks.
Rotherham Red Choir
Left wing singers of songs about the lives of ordinary people, and what they are up against, inspired by folk songs, protest and campaign songs from the British Isles and around the world.
Rude Shipyard
Home cooked meals, second-hand & new books for sale, and musical instruments to try out. Sally and Pete are open to more ideas to try in this friendly place which has events like CD music nights, see the website. Open every day except Wednesdays. 89 Abbeydale Road, Sheffield S7 1FE
Russell’s Bicycle Shed
Quality bicycle maintenance, repair and upgrade service by Russell, who is completely mobile. That means he can collect your bike and return it to you complete, or do on-the-spot repairs. He can also be found in Sheffield railway station on Thursdays (new for 2012).
Safe in South Yorks
Hate Crime reporting site, bringing together the local community and agencies working together for a safer place for all to live, work and socialise including the LGB&T and minority ethnic and faith communities. Run by South Yorkshire Police
Sage Greenfingers
A group which promotes the mental and physical well-being of adults experiencing mental health problems via the provision of creative therapeutic activities like gardening.
Same Difference
Training on equality and diversity using drama, theatre and audience participation, based in Rotherham. Details from Steve 01709 829446 or Taiba 01709 720744
Save Our NHS
Sheffield Save Our NHS is fighting the appalling government plans for major changes to our Health Service. Cuts, competition and privatization is all for the benefit of private companies. Time to get involved, show your support for the NHS.
SAVTE
Sheffield Association for the Voluntary Teaching of English (SAVTE) recruits and trains volunteers to teach English to the most isolated and excluded people, in their homes. This can bring life-changing language skills and self-confidence, opening doors to further study and social involvement.
Schools and Homes Energy Education Project
Schools and Homes Energy Education Project has developed an approach to assist people to make informed decisions about their energy use. It works mainly with educational institutions and community groups, in particular but not exclusively in the use of sustainable and renewable energy technologies. It is linked with Solar-Active and has operated since 1993.
Scrapstore
Sadly after 23 years providing services About Play and the Scraptore closed on 9th June 2016.
Doing its bit for recycling and for children, the Scrapstore sold donated materials and and scrap resources for children's play and creative activities, at Unit 9 Edmund Road Business Centre, 135 Edmund Road, S2 4ED
See Green
See Green is a new environmental education project which offers eco-friendly, alternative birthday parties including a birthday gift, green goody bags for all party guests, and environmental games, crafts and activities. Environmental education sessions are also offered for nurseries, schools and children’s centres, even cool stuff like paper making. Contact 07811 807164 or email contact@see-green.co.uk
Share Instead Housing Co-op
Share Instead Housing Co-op is a small housing co-op in Sharrow. They live communally, co-operatively, strive to live sustainably, share food and cooking and are a vegetarian household. They are all involved in various community projects locally and are working for peace and social change as part of the Radical Routes network. They are full at present (2015) but to find out more about them and co-operative living get in touch by phone or email shareinstead@gmail.com or phone Sheff 2587073
Sharrow Tool Library
You don't need to spend money on tools to decorate your house, collective ownership is better. This project is for anyone in the Sharrow area. To borrow tools (or to donate tools, you can still use them at any time) call 07704 507046 or email sharrowtoollibrary@googlemail.com
Sharrow Vale Hardware
As well as being a long-established local hardware shop with proper service, this may be the only "green" one in the city. Eco-paints, gardening, teapots and much much more! 370-372 Sharrow Vale Road, S11 8ZP. Tel Sheff 2686427. Open Mon-Sat 9-5.
Sheepless Knitter
If you knit, or love woolly clothes, there are lots of alternatives to wool. If you think wool is a harmless product taken without killing sheep, or that sheep farming is a natural environment-friendly part of the British landscape, you need to see this Sheffield-based website.
Sheff Uni SusTrans
Sheffield University group helping the students of the city into more sustainable lifestyles. They run group cycle rides, events like repair workshops, partying, loads of stuff, even an annual charity cycle ride in other cities.
Sheffield 50+
A group run by and for people over 50, non-party–political, independent and voluntary. It promotes the rights and positive profile of people over 50 actively participating in society, and campaigns for improvements in services. Also runs LGBT social meetings.
Sheffield Against Fracking
The local group fighting the ridiculous climate-destroying expansion of fracking in this area.
Sheffield Against Sexism
Campaigning against sexism in all forms, Sheffield Against Sexism opposes strip clubs, and defends local women's services. They welcome all to their organising meetings.
Sheffield Anarchist Federation
Sheffield group of the Anarchist Federation, which aims to create a free and equal society through abolition of capitalism and all oppression (racism, sexism and other forms of oppression, as well as war and environmental destruction, by which the ruling class weaken and divide us). Sheffield AF publishes The Fargate Speaker
Sheffield Anarchist Feminist Network
Some anarchist feminists in Sheffield have created a network to share ideas, work together in direct action and join together in solidarity. We invite anyone who wishes to discuss anarchist feminist issues, whether they would class themselves as anarchist feminist or not, to join us in at our meetings or events, regardless of gender. We only require that people are respectful and we reject all racist, sexist and homophobic views because this network is a liberated space.
Sheffield Animal Friends
Animal rights group based in Sheffield looking for people who want to get active in animal rights in South Yorkshire, stalls and demonstrations against the fur/vivisection/meat industries
Sheffield Anti Cuts Alliance (SACA)
An autonomous and independent organisation fighting all cuts to jobs and services in Sheffield. It's made up of workers, students, the unemployed, pensioners, trade unionists, volunteers, and residents. The group was initially proposed by the PCS trade union, quickly gaining support from plenty more, as well as the trades council and the Labour and Green Parties. Whilst it remains independent from all of these, members can be from any background with an anti-cuts agenda.
Sheffield Anti-Fascist Network
A grassroots network opposing fascism, racism, sexism, homophobia and all forms of oppression. Practical and popular opposition that really works.
Sheffield Autonomous Students
An autonomous group of Sheffield students (obviously!) for political actions.
Sheffield Campaign Against Climate Change (SCACC)
A friendly local group campaigning to avert catastrophic climate change. Actions, demonstrations, film shows and talks for local groups. They meet monthly in Sheffield City Centre, generally on the 2nd Tuesday of the month
Sheffield Chile Solidarity (SCDA)
A large Chilean community has been in Britain since the terrible US-supported dictatorship in Chile. This period was the introduction of neo-liberal economics to the world using force, torture and assassinations, and the Sheffield group continues to combine community activities with action on Latin American political issues.
Sheffield City Centre Residents Action Group
A group for anyone who has an interest in Sheffield city centre, aiming to foster a sense of community and provide a forum for people who live, work and play in the city, raising issues affecting life here.
Sheffield City Freecycle
Freecycle enables people to keep household goods out of landfill by giving away things they don't want, to people who can use them. Joining involves having a Yahoo account, which is free and easy. Each group is part of The Freecycle Network, an international and UK charity aiming to keep good stuff out of landfills. Sheffield City Freecycle also has a "Café Group" for members to discuss issues of recycling, the environment and so on.
Sheffield Climate Alliance
An alliance of organisations and individuals urging effective action on climate change. It is pressing Sheffield Council to engage with the issue. Through the alliance, groups not specifically set up to campaign around climate change can still voice their concerns on this urgent issue. Add your organisation or yourself to the petition.
Sheffield CND (Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament)
The pressure continues, urging government to resist the temptation to wasteful, dangerous spending of our money on nuclear weapons of mass destruction.
Sheffield Co-operative Development Group
SCDG specialises in the setting up and running of co-operatives and other democratically-owned businesses, with over twenty years experience. They offer free advice and encouragement. Talk to them if you have an idea for a new business, or maybe want to save your job if your employer is threatened with closure.
Sheffield Co-operatives
This is a website dedicated to co-operatives in Sheffield. It offers a directory of local co-ops, networking, news and guidance to people thinking of setting up a democratically-owned business.
Sheffield Committee to Defend Asylum Seekers
A campaigning organisation opposed to the Government's treatment of asylum seekers. It supports groups, individuals and families of asylum seekers unjustly threatened with deportation. Demanding full Geneva Convention legal rights and representation, the right to work, income support, and an end to detention centres and the dispersal policy.
Sheffield Communities Against Library Privatisation (SCALP)
SCALP is campaigning to stop cuts to Sheffield public libraries. In 2013, 14 out of 27 community libraries face closure as the council implements a £1.6m cut over two years. Join the fightback.
Sheffield Conservation Volunteers
Constantly working on practical conservation projects like cleaning out ponds, tree planting, stonewalling and path laying. Meet every Sunday 9.30am on City Hall steps (opposite John Lewis store). Bring packed lunch and working clothes. Hot drinks and transport provided
Sheffield CReative Action for Peace (SCRAP)
SCRAP is a Sheffield group using creative actions to campaign against Trident and against Drone warfare. Inspired by the 2014 Wool against Weapons protest against Trident. The group meets every second Thursday in the Quaker meeting house, 1.30pm till 4pm.
Sheffield Credit Union
Credit unions are member-owned cooperatives for saving and borrowing. Much better than any bank for ethical savings and cheap loans. They are closely regulated by the government authorities for security, and they provide excellent benefits and services. Since 2016 SCU merged with Rothersave Credit Union, and membership is now open to all who live or work in Sheffield, Rotherham, Doncaster, Barnsley, Derbyshire Dales, Bassetlaw, Chesterfield, North East Derbyshire and Bolsover.
Sheffield Cuba Solidarity Group
What is really happening in Cuba? The last remaining socialist country is having a realistic national debate (with 200,000 public meetings!) It is re-thinking socialism, and changing. Find out more from people who visit and keep in touch. The Sheffield group is very active and runs an annual dayschool on Latin American issues.
Sheffield Cycle Chic
More proof that cycling is the coolest way to travel? Here are pics of Sheffielders on their bikes, and other good fun stuff. Better check it out if you cycle - you may be featured!
Sheffield Cycle Map
Sheffield City Council Cycle Map, with loads of information about recommended cycle routes and other related transport information like bus lanes, tram routes, traffic calmed roads, cycle parking and cycle shops. Copies available at places like the Tourist Information office and Central Library, or click this link for online versions.
Sheffield Cycle Routes
The definitive guide to getting out and about by bike in Sheffield and South Yorkshire. Local short routes, long distance, suggested rides and more, all carefully written by real cyclists.
Sheffield Cycle Routes
A website guide to short and long journeys by bike in Sheffield and South Yorkshire. Each route has map and description with a lot of useful detail. If you know of a great cycle route this can also be added.
Sheffield CycleBoost
CycleBoost is a FREE three-part cycling support service for residents and employees in Sheffield, aimed at removing the barriers that prevent people from cycling. Though CycleBoost you can loan a bike, learn how to ride, learn how to fix your bike and how to commute confidently.
Sheffield District CTC
A friendly non-competitive cycling club, part of Cycling UK, which encourages all forms of cycling and promotes better cycling conditions. In Sheffield it has various projects, rides and social activities. Rides are graded from ’beginner’ (up to 15 miles) through to ’hard’ (60+ miles). They usually start from a café in areas such as Hillsborough, Millhouses and Dronfield, and include at least one café stop. No one gets left behind on their rides.
Sheffield Equality Trust
We live in a very unequal city, in one of the most divided developed countries on Earth. As one example, some northern and eastern areas of Sheffield have an average 14 year shorter life expectancy than the wealthier west side. Sheffield Equality Trust plans to change this situation.
Sheffield Esteli Society
Since the Sandinista revolution of 1979, this solidarity group has raised money for water supply, sanitation, education and environmental projects in Esteli in Nicaragua, one of the poorest countries in the world and with one of the largest gaps between rich and poor. It deals directly with local people and community groups to ensure that projects directly benefit the poorest people.
Sheffield Feminist Archive
A project working with Sheffield Archives, to collect and preserve documents from the present and past of feminism and the fight for women's rights in Sheffield. Email sheffieldfeministarchive@gmail.com
Sheffield Feminist Network
Sheffield Feminist Network has been set up to connect feminists across the city interested in activism, friendship or a bit of both! All feminists, pro-feminists and people interested in feminism are welcome to join the network, no matter your gender identity.
Sheffield Fems
Feminist group, open to primarily women who identify as women only, but with regular events open to all. Mostly the online discussion has moved onto the UK Feminista website.
Sheffield Festivals Network
A network for new and existing festival organisers. It shares information, support and opportunities and acts as a representative voice. Plans include resources sharing, bulk buying of festival insurance and training opportunities in crucial areas like health and safety, recycling and stewarding. People can get involved at different levels, and everyone gets invited to the annual party.
Sheffield Food Collective
Sheffield Food Collective works with food banks through things like food collections, gigs and events. They also collaborate with organisations, promoters, venues, and anyone else with skills, ideas, space, or enthusiasm. They help anyone in need, not simply using a ‘voucher’ system (where people only get food if they’ve been referred by an agency). No-one thinks food banks are the long-term answer to hunger and poverty, but they are trying to relieve the worst effects on people.
Sheffield FoodBanks
Sheffield has its share of foodbanks, as the rich financial elite make us all suffer the crisis of their gambling in casino capitalism. For details of how to help or get help, this is the website.
Sheffield for Democracy
This is an informal group campaigning for greater democracy, citizens rights, a fairer voting system and more accurate representation of the public will in Parliament. It welcomes supporters of all political parties or none, and especially needs people willing to attend council meetings as members of the public.
Sheffield Forum
Well-organised, long established and lively forum for discussion about Sheffield and stuff, hundreds of lovely down-to- earth Sheffield people online
Sheffield Freegle
Freegle means Free Giving, Locally, Easily. It's a new online re-use network, an alternative to Freecycle. It enables people to keep household goods out of landfill by giving away things they don't want, to people who can use them. Joining involves having a Yahoo account, which is free and easy. Each Freegle group is a grassroots co-operative run by and for local people. Sheffield's also has a "Freegle Café Group" for members to chat about anything and to promote local businesses.
Sheffield FridayNightRide
Sheffield FridayNightRide is a cycle ride around Sheffield. It's a ride for fun, fresh(ish) air and comradeship. It's unsupported, it's about celebrating cycling and celebrating Sheffield. It's not a demo or a protest. It's not anti-traffic. Whoever you are, whatever your bike, you're welcome to join
Get yourself on the mailing list for reminder updates: sheffieldffridaynightride @ googlemail.com
Sheffield Fruitbowl
Sheffield Fruitbowl provides safe and affirming support for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered young people aged 12-17. It's somewhere young people who identify as LGBT or who are questioning or exploring their emerging sexuality can go to for confidential advice and support.
Sheffield Green Drinks
A monthly social networking event for anyone interested in green issues and the environment. Welcomes activists, students, academics, community, government and business people
Sheffield Green Party
Sheffield Green Party is part of the national Green Party, It aims to work for social justice, equitable and sustainable communities, community-based politics, and non-violence. Jillian Creasy was the first Green Party councillor on Sheffield City Council. As well as campaigning it can be a great help for contacts, and also has a really useful website
Sheffield Green Spaces Forum
A volunteer-run network that brings together as equals the groups with an interest in the parks, playgrounds and other open and green spaces of Sheffield. SGSF shares events, ideas and knowledge, and is a voice for the good of the communities served.
Sheffield Guantanamo Campaign
This campaign is not really running any more activities (from 2010) protest instead through Amnesty International (see above). But you can still contact Sheff 2555815 or email shefguantanamocampaign@hotmail.co.uk
Sheffield Gulls forum
Sheffield Gulls: The world number 1 forum for left-wing Torquay United fans in Sheffield, this is actually an anti-capitalist non-sexist forum. Believe it, it is true.
Sheffield Home Educators Network (SHEN)
holds regular meetings to support parents who choose to educate their kids out of school (which doesn't have to cost a fortune, follow the National Curriculum, or require a qualified teacher). Tel. Annette, Sheff. 258 3502 or Alison, Sheff. 247 8901 (See also Education Otherwise, above)
Sheffield Humanist Society (SHS)
Humanists care about social and moral issues from a freethinking, non-religious (atheist or agnostic) perspective, rejecting the supernatural and believing that humanity must find its own solutions to life's problems. The Sheffield group is one of the largest and most active in UK and holds monthly meetings open to the general public.
Sheffield Hunt Saboteurs
The fox hunting season runs from August until April, and there are around 10 hunts within an hour travel from Sheffield. Sheffield Hunt Saboteurs take action to reduce how many animals these hunts can kill, by attending around 5 hunts a month and intervening. Information on the group, contact details, and around 6 years worth of sabbing reports can be found on their website: www.sheffieldsaboteurs.wordpress.com. The group is always looking for new members because lots of their recruits are students who end up moving on. Please get in touch to join the group, donate, or help in other way. Email: sheffieldsaboteurs at live.co.uk
Sheffield Indymedia
Sheffield's finest independent news online.
Sheffield Initiative for Fairtrade (SHIFT)
SHIFT monitors Sheffield's Fairtrade City status and promotes and increases awareness of Fairtrade products. The website lists shops and cafés selling Fairtrade products.
Sheffield is my Planet
Sheffield is my Planet asks people to look at their own life and make promises to take action to prevent destructive climate change. Of course such individual actions aren't going solve things overnight, but they're trying... There is advice and news of other eco-initiatives in Sheffield.
Sheffield Left Unity
Left Unity was born out of Ken Loach’s 2013 appeal for a new political party of the left, united on a principled socialist basis, for the many disillusioned with Labour, who want a fighting working class alternative to austerity.
Sheffield LETS
This is a community-based mutual aid network in which people exchange all kinds of goods and services, without the need for money. In fact they use a currency called "Stones". It works - find more information on the website or Tel. Sheff. 221 6804 (office open 7:30 to 9pm Wed. evenings, leave a voicemail at other times)
Sheffield Live
A genuine community-based radio and TV station broadcasting on FM, over the internet and on podcasts, right from the city centre. Not just another commercial channel; many volunteers are involved in making the programmes.
Sheffield Money
A co-operative launched in 2015, to give financial advice and services on a not-for-profit basis, working for the benefit of Sheffield residents. The total opposite of the usual financial services which rip off the poorest, and suck profits of the region. Supporters can buy shares in Sheffield Money.
Sheffield No Borders
Part of a network in solidarity with refugees, migrants, asylum seekers and other groups. No Borders is committed to practical solidarity, mutual aid and direct action in the fight against dawn raids, deportations, detention, exploitation, poverty and racism, supporting individual asylum seekers and raising awareness, campaigning and lobbying on immigration issues. This network is rooted in the belief that all immigration controls are racist and divisive methods of authoritarian control, which should be opposed and ultimately abolished. Although this viewpoint often gets marginalized and drowned out by the 'common sense' and 'realist' approaches of fellow campaigners who seek to reform the systems of controls or to create 'fairer' asylum policies, No Borders values these contributions to migrant struggles, but wishes they would go further. It adds to the fight for decency by providing a space to come together with a 'no one is illegal' perspective, and campaigns to end the imposed state restrictions to freedom of movement.
Sheffield Nomads chess players
Sheffield's most diverse chess-playing group, welcome new players of all ages, genders, heights, weights, nationalities, hairstyles and abilities! Meets weekly.
Sheffield Organic Food Initiative
Crookes-based charity promoting organic food growing, permaculture and biodynamics for education, health and the alleviation of poverty. Learn how to grow safe, sustainable fruit, vegetables, flowers and herbs; even provides a seed bank
Sheffield Organic Growers
Based in the beautiful Moss Valley on the edge of Sheffield, this cluster of independent organic growers sells a range of produce, vegetables, fruit and herbs, through local shops. They are also the home of Hazelhurst Community Supported Agriculture Co-op, Moss Valley Market Garden, Hazelhurst Fruitery, and the veg box growing for Beanies Wholefoods co-operative.
Sheffield Oxfam Group
Whatever you think about charity, Oxfam is campaigning and tackling poverty and emergencies worldwide, promoting Fair Trade and running loads of practical projects making a difference in people's lives. They don't appear to have a Sheffield website but the national one is good. Tel. Sheff. 268 6727 for the local group
Sheffield Palestine Solidarity Campaign
A group of people deeply concerned about the plight of the Palestinian people, supporting their struggle for self- determination in the face of the longest military occupation in modern history. To join over 700 Sheffield people who receive their email newsletters, fill in this online form
Sheffield Pensioners Action Group (SPAG)
The activist side of growing old. The group meets most mornings upstairs in the Castle Market, join them for chat and activities
Sheffield Rape Crisis
Sheffield rape and sexual abuse counselling service is a specialist women only service offering free and confidential counselling and support to empower women and girls who have experienced rape or sexual abuse at any times in their lives. Free and confidential; they can also offer listening and information to anyone supporting a survivor of sexual abuse.
Sheffield Real Nappy Network
For independent advice on using cloth nappies. Find out the facts, suppliers, events, and even whether your local council offers any incentives for use of real nappies
Sheffield Refugee and Asylum Co-operative
Asylum seekers in Sheffield are going hungry because the government's voucher system doesn't work; unable to buy basic essentials that we all take for granted, on less than £30 per week in vouchers (less if they're under 25 years). Vouchers can only be spent on food and only in a very small number of supermarkets, plus £10 cash. Many find it difficult to stay healthy and cannot afford clothes, shoes, babies nappies, sanitary towels and many other necessities.
This disgraceful situation is an affront to people's dignity. The Sheffield Refugee & Asylum Co-operative works with local people, churches and community organisations to distribute many essential items among the asylum seekers and refugees of Sheffield.
Collection points run in Broomspring, Broomhall, Duke Street and Parkhill so far, and more are needed.
Sheffield Renewables
Community-owned project working to actually build local renewable power supplies in the city, at Kelham Island and Jordan’s Dam. Profit generated will be re-invested in other projects which benefit the community.
Sheffield Samba Band
Formed in 2001, inspired by the power of radical Samba Bands with wicked tunes in protests and demonstrations. It encourages everyone to join, from people who have never picked up a musical instrument in their life to the most experienced. Excellent website, even includes video clips!
Sheffield Sapphics
A group for gay women aged 40 and over, with a community platform where members can post and attend events.
Sheffield Social Centre
Sheffield Social Centre is a collective for libertarian DIY space in the city. If you're interested in getting involved with the social centre project (or are intrigued by it at the very least) you're very welcome the project is open to all who share its core principles of non-hierarchy, anti-capitalism and equality/non-discrimination.
Sheffield Socialist Choir
Formed over 20 years ago, and still having fun in the long tradition of radical singing in Sheffield and the industrial north. New singers welcome!
Sheffield Socialist Party
Fighting for a socialist society, instead of the capitalist system. Weekly meetings with themed talks, friendly and welcoming to anyone interested, members and non-members.
Sheffield Stop the War Coalition
Join the fight against war; the Sheffield branch of the organisation which Jeremy Corbyn led for many years. Coaches to London marches, etc.
Sheffield Street Art
If you like the alternative art gallery on our city's walls, see this website. It is a real treasure-trove archive of beautiful photos, details and locations of Sheffield's street art, past, present and future.
Sheffield Students Housing Co-operative
Co-operative housing, run by and for students and graduates. The profit gets re-invested into the co-op, rather than going to a landlord. Occupants get to see the real costs of housing and house maintenance, and take part in democratic decisions about finances and management.
Sheffield Tools for Africa
A long-running Sheffield group which takes used tools to be refurbished and sent out to community projects in Africa, mostly via Work Aid or Tools For Self Reliance Cymru. Donations of good quality tools always needed. Please bring to St. Wilfrid's Centre, Queens Road S2 4DT on Tuesday evenings from 8pm, when they are in the workshop at the back of the car park. If you want tools collected please ring Sheff 2583821 or 2557861 or email sheffieldt4a@gmail.com
Sheffield Tree Action Groups (STAG)
STAG is an umbrella group to represent all tree groups throughout Sheffield. Its purpose is to lead a city-wide campaign to encourage the local authority to adopt a responsible, sustainable approach to management of the city-wide tree population – the urban forest. During the City Council/AMEY roads improvement contract there have been many protests about tree removals.
Sheffield Uncut
Sheffield group of the UK Uncut movement. They organise protests against the brutal, unnecessary, ideologically motivated cuts, inflicted by the current Government, serving the rich elite and damaging the rest of us. Now is the time to get angry, to get organised and to build a resistance to austerity
Sheffield Universal Education Collective
Students, teachers, lecturers and anyone interested in radical education are welcomed by Sheffield Universal Education Collective. Inspired by student protests and activism, it provides an open and democratic education space in the city. Free, critical thinking lectures are offered about the political situation and ways to change the world around us.
Sheffield Vegans
Live a life without use of animal products at all; no meat, dairy or eggs. Try it, it works! Sheffield vegans don't meet as an organisation, but for advice and information see the website which is a great resource for vegans and vegetarians in Sheffield.
Sheffield Venezuela Solidarity Campaign
Local group in solidarity with the democratic social progress taking place in Venezuela under the government of Hugo Chávez, struggling against hostile media and a powerful capitalist opposition aided by the USA (including an attempted military coup in 2002). Meanwhile, direct democracy through grassroots community councils and increased social spending have made dramatic improvements in peoples' lives, as Venezuela works with other Latin American countries to build an alternative to neo-liberalism.
Sheffield Voices of Resistance
A YouTube channel run from Sheffield, with videos of local people and protests. Further videos are being added.
Sheffield Wildlife Trust
Get involved with the city's largest environmental conservation charity, lots going on
Sheffield Workers' Liberty
Revolutionary socialist group which organises in the community, student and trade union movements towards an effective fight against cuts, and for a society based on human needs, not capitalist inequality, war and oppression.
Sheffield Zeitgeist Movement
The Zeitgeist Movement is the activist arm of the Venus Project, based on the ideas of Jacque Fresco and Roxanne Meadows. This non-static grassroots movement of around 300,000 people aims to investigate how technology, through the use of a resource-based economy, to free humanity from the crippling forces of fiat currency (paper/digital money), global debt and slave labour.
Sheffield contact: click to email
Sheffieldbycycle
An automated bicycle rental scheme set up by the University of Sheffield, and open to everyone. There are five hire points around the city, with good sturdy ‘Boris bikes’. Subscribe on the website, to use the bikes whenever you wish. The first 30 minutes of every rental is free, after which there is a pricing structure for their pay-as-you-ride basis, or discounts for annual membership.
Sheffrec Cycling Club
A friendly cycling club dedicated to giving riders of all abilities the opportunity to enjoy every aspect of cycling, definitely including the racing side of it. They have training rides and weekend club runs, often into the Peak District.
Shout!
A safe place supporting gay and bisexual men based in the city centre. It offers various activities; weekly sessions with health advice and support services, and a chance to meet others away from the gay scene. Tel. Sheff. 3054444
Showroom Cinema
The only Sheffield cinema that makes an effort to show more than Hollywood films. A great, ever-changing selection of films including international ones, and film festivals
Side by Side Intercultural Drama Group
An award-winning, user-led Sheffield community drama group which aims to promote intercultural understanding, integration and cohesion between people of all social, ethnic, cultural and faith backgrounds. It uses drama as a tool for developing confidence and self-expression, building friendships and exploring themes that are important and relevant to members. No previous theatre experience or English language skills are necessary, refugees and asylum seekers are particularly welcome to join.
Email admin@sidebyside.me.uk or call 079438 12382
Sisters' Cafe
A new cafe for women, a place to feel welcome, meet other women and share food. Open on Wednesdays from 11am - 3pm, from Feb 10th, 2016. Venue: Vestry Hall, 2 Burngreave Road, Burngreave S3 9DD. To find out more, call 07794 854104.
Skeptics in the Pub
Skeptics in the Pub is about getting people together to have a relaxed and enjoyable evening while listening to talks on a wide range of topics, usually by a notable scientist or skeptic. It doesn't matter what your prior beliefs are, or even if you're unsure what they are yourself. Everyone and everyone's viewpoint welcome. Monthly events.
Solar-Active
This long-established Sheffield organisation offers unique educational resources, workshops and courses in sustainable development, energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies.
SoundOut
A support and social group run by and for gay and bisexual men, gay curious men, and men who have sex with men, or men struggling with or questioning their sexuality who are fearful, pressurised and ultimately marginalised by the society in which we live. SoundOut offers a central service of informal group-based peer support and safe social interaction.
South Yorkshire Against Incineration
Doesn't seem to have a website, probably too busy fighting powerful Veolia's application to enlarge its Bernard Road incinerator (oooops, "Energy Recovery Plant") to allow waste to be collected from Barnsley, Doncaster and Chesterfield, sort of in conflict with the general idea of more recycling. There's a UK website UKWIN (UK Without Incineration Network)
South Yorkshire Badger Group
The South Yorkshire Badger Group is a charitable organisation with loads of information, a programme of illustrated talks and film shows, and advice on badgers and their conservation. They record sightings, and even have a hotline number.
South Yorkshire Energy Centre
Since 2006 South Yorkshire Energy Centre has offered advice and information on energy efficiency, renewable energy, sustainable building and affordable warmth. Its eco-refurbished house with interactive displays at Heeley City Farm (25 Alexandra Road, S2 3EE) is open to visitors, schools and groups.
South Yorkshire Migration And Asylum Action Group (SYMAAG)
SYMAAG unites refugee, asylum and migrant organisations with campaign groups, trade unions, charities, political parties, faith groups and supporting individuals. It campaigns both for the rights of those seeking asylum and of those coming to work in this country.
South Yorkshire People’s Assembly
The government austerity programme is cruel and is not necessary. The banks and corporations should be taxed at a rate which can provide the necessary resources. Join this major new resistance movement to defend education, health and welfare provision funded from tax and available to all, rather than surrender the gains that have improved the lives of millions of people for over 50 years.
South Yorkshire Permaculture Advisory Group
A wide range of free advice available on this sustainable, easy form of gardening and food production. Simon Piper Tel. 01909-561348
Space for Cycling
The Sheffield part of the national campaign to get people on their bikes, and for safe, sensible cycle lanes and greater awareness of the all-round fantasticness of cycling.
Squatting
For advice on squatting why not contact the sublimely brilliant Advisory Service for Squatters. 020 3216 0099 (London). In Sheffield there are squats, but it's harder to get advice and support. Try Sheffield Squatters Support Group which may still be active.
St Vincent's Furniture Store
This large furniture store at 280 Queens Road offers FREE help to furnish the homes of vulnerable families and individuals referred by statutory and voluntary agencies. They help over 3500 people a year, including single-parents, elderly, disabled, ex-offenders trying to go straight, asylum seekers, and many others who through no fault of their own find themselves in crisis. It is the only service of its kind in Sheffield, and is only possible thanks to staff, volunteers and people who donate items.
St Wilfrid’s Mission
St Wilfrid’s day centre is a Christian organisation working for homeless and vulnerable people. It gives valuable welfare and educational opportunities, helping people to find understanding and a sense of belonging and self esteem, along with practical support in every aspect of life.
St. Wilfred's Centre
St. Wilf’s does wonderful work for the homeless, vulnerable and socially excluded in South Yorkshire, bringing dignity and a feeling of belonging. People are taught skills – from domestic skills to help them to live independently, to skills that bring them back to work. And surprisingly they produce hand-made clocks and signs.…
Stop Animal Experiments in Sheffield
SAEIS campaigns against the use of animals in vivisection by the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam. The University of Sheffield alone is responsible for the deaths of 30,000 animals ever year, used for animal experiments and then disposed of. Students and locals are often not even aware of the painful experiments and animal torment happening on their campuses and doorsteps. As the price of obtaining primates has soared due to activist pressure and the closing down of facilities, an increase of the breeding and use of genetically modified animals has occured.
Stop HS2 (opposed to the High Speed Rail link)
This new pressure group opposes the HS2 High Speed Rail link, because the business case is based on unrealistic assumptions, the environmental impact has not been assessed, it is not green, the strategic benefits are questionable, and the money could be better spent on other things. They are campaigning through letter writing and have been touring the country on the ´Great White Elephant Hunt´, with Ellie, a huge inflatable white elephant!
Student Action for Refugees (STAR)
Part of a national student body that raises awareness about refugees and asylum seekers in the UK and worldwide. Organises events, raising awareness, fundraising and volunteering with asylum seekers and refugees in Sheffield.
Talk Sheffield forum
A forum online for general discussion, of anything and everything, as well as Sheffield-related discussions and fun.
The Besotted Wretch
Radical second hand bookshop and art gallery on Abbeydale Road, with a book selection as interesting as its name. Also vintage vinyl records and work by local artists and artisans, and vegetarian/vegan bar with tea, coffee, juice, toast and bagels. A welcoming place to browse and have a chat about all aspects of life (fighting DWP benefits decisions a particular speciality!)
The Chat
The Chat is a not-for-profit organisation committed to delivering engaging and up to date sex and relationship education. Sessions offered include: Consent: what, why, how? Deconstructing porn myths, Sexting, Body positive, Sexual identity and boundary setting and How to talk to your kids about sex and real life respectful relationships. Experienced leaders using collaborative, active and discussion based approaches.
The Co-op Café
Update: This sadly appears to be CLOSED now (since 2011)
A community café and arts venue with a garden behind independent from the venue and open to community use. Local artists can display and sell their work, art and craft activities and kid-friendly menus. 229 London Road, Sheffield S2 4NF. Tel. Sheff. 258 1131
The Cycle Hut
The University of Sheffield now has its own service to encourage the wonderful world of bikes, offering check-ups, repairs and accessories on campus. Also friendly rides into the countryside and around the city, social events and plenty of of fun.
The Fargate Speaker
This long-running bi-monthly publication of the Anarchist Federation in Sheffield now in the form of an online blog, and print newssheets on an occasional basis. Regular reports on events, anarchist news and views from the steel city.
The Hazards Campaign
The Hazards Campaign, which has a strong base in Sheffield, is a network of resource centres and campaigners on health and safety at work. It is a vital source of useful information when you need to fight dodgy employers or dangerous working conditions.
The Incredible Nutshell
A great, friendly little independent shop in Heeley. They sell vegan, vegetarian, free-from, local, organic and Fairtrade foods, and also eco cleaning products and toiletries, lunches and snacks, cards and gifts.
The Naughty Pixies Cosmic Community Yurt
With a huge yurt (handmade traditional nomadic tent) the pixies provide a magical autonomous space at events. They share skills, ideas, fun and creativity in DIY low impact living, ancient and recycled crafts, native wild foods, medicinal plants and herbs, survival skills and direct action, not to mention art and music, flow and peace, all in balance with nature.
The Real Junk Food Project
The first 'pay-as-you-feel' surplus food café in Sheffield. The entire menu is waste or surplus food from from farms, businesses, events, households, etc. Part of a UK network challenging ideas about the value of food, and the concept of 'food waste' which can perfectly healthy and delicious and put into landfill. Diners can chose to pay in money or energy by washing up or other help. By reconnecting with the simple values of feeding the community they hope to engage people in becoming involved with the project and helping each other.
The Sheffield Cohousing Network
A group promoting co-housing, where residents create and live in intentional communities. Each household has a self-contained private home but there is also shared management of the community, and shared activities like eating together, as an alternative to the alienation and isolation we experience in capitalist society.
Thumbs Up
A small company set up to promote Fair Trade. Groceries and crafts delivered, including discounts for bulk-buy and charities, churches and schools.
Timebuilders
Timebuilders is Sheffield’s first 'Time Bank'. A great way for people to help others in their community and be rewarded for it – in time. Each hour you spend doing something for someone else in the community earns you a time credit which can be spent on other activities or help. Everyone’s contribution is equally important and people of all ages and abilities can join in.
Totally Eco 8
Sheffield based Totally Eco 8 design and produce insulation and other stuff for ecologically & socially sustainable construction, which exceed building regulations and the Code for Sustainable Buildings.
TP Trading
A huge stock of recycled wood is available from TP Trading, a new kind of business with its roots in social enterprise, giving work to local unemployed people. Its Thurcroft site is close to Rotherham and Sheffield. Check out what's in stock, prices are very good. As well as recycled wood for DIY projects they are developing products like quality sheds, garden buildings, planters, birdboxes, garden furniture, and offer units for start-up businesses.
Transition Porter Valley
A group in the S10/S11/Porter Valley area of Sheffield, getting local transition going. This will cover stuff from growing fruit and vegetables locally, to awareness raising of the problems with fossil fuels and climate change.
Transition Sheffield.
A new addition to the growing Transition Town movement in the UK, raising awareness about climate change, peak oil, and Transition Towns. Events are open to everyone
TranSupport
An organisation supporting the transgender community in South Yorkshire, and their families and friends. Information and guidance for health professionals, care workers, employers and anyone interested in transgender issues.
Travel Plans
Council help for environmentally sound transport planning, aimed at businesses, schools and other organisations. Tel. Sheff. 205 3073
Uncaged
Well respected, Sheffield-based international campaign against animal experiments (vivisection), xenotransplantation (animal to human transplants), and other animal rights issues through peaceful political pressure
Union St.
Union St is a 4-storey building in the heart of Sheffield designed with collaboration in mind, offering co-working, hot desking, meeting rooms, event space, roof garden, professional kitchen and pop-up cafe. For developing self employment, start-ups, contractors, social enterprises and freelancers, co-working is an alternative to working from home. Their shared offices have a friendly and productive atmosphere, bring your laptop and work alongside a variety of people from a range of professions. Benefits include improved productivity, increased networks and support, and a better work/life balance. And it is a co-operative!
Unite Against Fascism
Anti-BNP anti-racism group, local contact 07890 131138
University of Sheffield - Palestine Society
Part of the University of Sheffield Student Union, meets on Tuesday evenings. Mainly made up of students, although happy for other people to come along to meetings and events. However, non-students might prefer to join Sheffield Palestine Solidarity Campaign
University of Sheffield Green Party Society
This group invites students studying anywhere to join via Facebook or contact 07837 521226
Unlock Democracy
The UK's leading campaign for democracy, rights and freedoms. A grassroots movement, owned and run by members which campaigns on issues like fair and open elections, a written constitution and bringing power closer to the people. It incorporates a predecessor organisation, Charter 88
The website above is the UK national one but there is a Sheffield group, for details call Sheff. 2664607
Unwrapped Shop
Unwrapped is a zero waste grocery shop based in Crookes, Sheffield. Customers can fill their own containers with a huge variety of food and non-food products to reduce waste, because being environmentally friendly is often very difficult or expensive. It caters to lots of budgets, and is fully vegetarian including a wide range of vegan products.
Veggie, vegan, cruelty-free Yorkshire
Vegetarian, vegan, and cruelty-free links around Yorkshire, news, events, even the first Vegetarian/Vegan guide to Yorkshire. Well worth a look.
VIDA
VIDA (formerly Sheffield Domestic Abuse Forum) is an independent voluntary sector organisation delivering specialist domestic and sexual abuse services and training, and engaging with partners to work towards an end to domestic abuse and violence against women and girls.
Vuka Theatre Group
Formed 1999 in Zimbabwe. African struggles told through drama, music and dance. Details from Steve Rogers 01709 367287
We Love The Earth Centre
The Earth Centre is a large site on a former colliery, next to Conisbrough railway station (on the way to Doncaster). In the 1990s it was opened as an environmental visitor attraction ... then later it closed. What happens to it now is up in the air, so 'We Love The Earth Centre' is campaigning to make sure it's kept for community-based, sustainable use.
We Want Our Buses Back
Campaign to get South Yorkshire's buses back to what they used to be - public services, not unaccountable, cut-back, rip-off private companies.
Not enough buses or trains in your area? Write to your local council to ask for better services that will help people avoid unnecessary car journeys. Campaigns have shown that hand-written requests really help to bring about change.
Wild Star Food Co.
Sheffield-based online grocery store, with organic home delivery services and exellent ethics. They support the local economy and fair-trade wherever possible, with fair prices and positive long-term trading relationships.
Wildscapes
A Community Interest Company, Wildscapes offers services in land management, ecology and landscape design (from habitat and protected species surveys to storm water, river and moorland management. You name it, they do it!) They work to support the environment and biodiversity, and also involve volunteers and encourage a sense of ownership towards green spaces and the natural world.
Women in Black
Women in Black (WiB) is a world-wide network of women committed to peace with justice and actively opposed to injustice, war, militarism and other forms of violence. Not an organisation, but a means of mobilisation and a formula for action. Women in Black actions often take the form of women wearing black, standing in a public place in silent, non-violent vigils at regular times and intervals, carrying placards and handing out leaflets. All women are welcome to join in vigils for all or part of the time, and support is welcome from everyone.
Women in Construction Arts and Technology (WICAT)
Re-opened with a great voluntary community spirit, WICAT in Burngreave offers courses for women (and some for men also) including car maintenance, bricklaying, plastering, tiling, plumbing, DIY and book-keeping. Prices are cheap, just to cover costs. And they have a 'tool library' for women who have done courses to borrow tools. WICAT also promotes and supports women working and training in non-traditional trades, through networking events.
Women's International League for Peace and Freedom (WILPF) (Sheffield)
An organisation working for structural change to remove social, economic and political inequality, war and the causes of war. It campaigns for disarmament, economic and social justice, human and women's rights and a sustainable environment. The Sheffield group meets monthly, on the third Thursday (not August or December)
Workers' Educational Association (WEA) Rotherham branch
The WEA is a long-established adult education movement, with roots in the co-operative movement. It's run voluntarily and democratically, so local people decide for themselves what they want to learn, rather than government or big business. Education for both personal fulfilment and collective advancement for a better society is its commitment through a rolling programme of courses. This is the Rotherham branch, there is also a Sheffield one, among many across the UK.
Workers' Educational Association (WEA) Sheffield branch
The WEA is a long-established adult education movement, with roots in the co-operative movement. It's run voluntarily and democratically, so local people decide for themselves what they want to learn, rather than government or big business. Education for both personal fulfilment and collective advancement for a better society is its commitment through a rolling programme of courses. This is the Sheffield branch, nearby there is also a Rotherham one, among many across the UK.
Yorkshire Against New Coal
New coal developments including opencast and coal-fired power stations show that the Government is sticking its head in the sand about climate change, YANC campaigns for common sense.
Yorkshire Anarchist Federation
Collective of anarchist groups based in Sheffield and Leeds, affiliated to the national anarchist federation (AFed).
Yorkshire Palestine Cultural Exchange
An organisation promoting positive images of Palestinian culture, and cultural exchange between Yorkshire people and the Palestinian people.
