Former Barnsley College students raise money for domestic abuse charity

Enis Bakolli and Jonathan Bradbury teamed up to raise money for IDAS after their tutor, Susan Donnelly, told them about the many refuges that the domestic abuse service manages throughout Yorkshire. As part of their studies at Barnsley College Higher Education, students have to collaborate with public organisations for a project and perform. Enis and Jonathan decided that they would get together and perform songs to raise the spirits of the women at the refuge and post their sessions online.   

They both provided music workshops for women and children at the refuge. Jonathan delivered drum lessons and Enis created an online performance just for them in lockdown. Enis suggested raising money when he realised that refuges were struggling financially. 

Enis, now studying a post graduate Teaching course at Outwood Academy, said: “We have managed to raise £650 which we’re really happy with. Research has suggested that £30 will help a person in the refuge to get the support they need and, if that’s the case, we have nearly raised enough money for 22 people. 

“A lot of friends and family have donated which I’m very grateful for. Jonathan helped massively too by performing and sharing the link with me. He’s a fantastic person, with a really big heart! It feels absolutely amazing knowing that you’re helping people with their lives and it’s been a wonderful joy for me to be a part of as it was heavily music based, which I love. I hope the money that has been raised will help them in every way possible.” 

Susan Donnelly, Higher Education Pathway Leader for Music, added: “Enis and Jonathan were a pleasure to work with during their time at Barnsley College Higher Education. They both showed that they had a strong ability to teach during their projects. Their passion for people has inspired their future careers as teachers and their desire to raise much needed funding for this charity.” 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IsZzw1QA3DQ

Donations for IDAS are still being accepted. Visit www.justgiving.com and search for ‘Barnsley College HE’.