Our Staff — The Furnival

Julie D’Souza Walsh

Projects & Development Manager

I plan and run our projects for the community, from applying for funding through to evaluation and development. I am trained as a facilitator for the innovative, drama-based Creative English programme, which supports the community’s need for confidence in speaking English. We provide a warm welcome, with new learners joining us most weeks.

Our work has developed as we have listened to our community and learned of their needs and priorities. In addition to our established Creative English classes we have run a successful numeracy programme this year, building confidence in numbers in everyday life. We run a Toy Library, Art and Craft groups and a weekly Cook and Share. We have a community garden, comprising three raised beds alongside our Community Hub, where local families grow and harvest fresh produce.

It is a privilege to be part of this diverse and wonderful community in Burngreave.

Rachel Brown

Project support worker

I have been running Angel Kids playgroup and a Craft Club at The Furnival for over a year. We have done this in person and over zoom in lockdown. I also have responsibility for running The Furnival Toy Library which is available for all families. Along with various Furnival activities, like the recent community garden, I am involved in the new Peaced Together course which started in Summer 2021. These are exciting opportunities where families can be involved in growing, creating and making friends too. It is great to get to know and support people in our local community and beyond!

I have a background as a Learning Mentor in education; I worked in a Sheffield secondary school and then for The Cellar Space (an alternative education provision) for over ten years. I really enjoyed these roles which involved providing support for a variety of young people and their families. I have a Foundation Degree in Creative Art Practices and enjoy doing craft and art projects with all ages.

I am married to Pete, we have three children and we love spending time together and with family and friends. We enjoy playing outside, going on walks in the countryside, making things and eating tasty food! I also enjoy playing and dancing to music!!