History
TfR was established in 1999 as a partnership between the Sheffield Diocesan Board of Finance Faith and Justice Team and Industrial Mission South Yorkshire. The Sheffield Diocesan Board of Finance (SDBF) is a Charitable Company (Charity No. 245861; Company No. 196087) and acts as lead partner in developing this work on behalf of the churches in South Yorkshire.
TfR’s initial work was to respond to, and support the development of, community projects within churches. When South Yorkshire was awarded Objective One European status, to maximise the benefit of the programme, churches needed to work in partnership with the wider community, to deliver effective projects and facilitate lasting change in the most disadvantaged communities of South Yorkshire. TfR was well placed to facilitate this vital role.
TfR began to support the development of Community Partnerships across South Yorkshire. This involved supporting local people, clergy, lay people, businesses and local agencies to come together and form a legal entity, to research the needs of their community and develop, fund and deliver projects to meet those needs. Often this work was demanding and challenging and TfR’s unique contribution was recognised and valued by statutory partners.
Since its creation, TfR has supported voluntary, community and faith groups across South Yorkshire to develop exciting and innovative responses to community need in disadvantaged areas and to access nearly £17 million of funding. TfR has traditionally worked within South Yorkshire but is now able to offer its experience and expertise throughout the country.