News from Basildon District Council
October 2009
See page12 for details
St George’s Day 2010 : What would YOU like?
Following this year's massively successful St George's Day celebrations across the district, residents are being asked for ideas on how to celebrate in 2010. Cllr Andrew Baggott, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: "We're extremely proud of the St George's Day celebrations we held across the district this year. “Our 'Party in a Box' idea might now be rolled out nationally, and the response from residents was superb. “We do want our communities to be fully involved, and given that the aim is to achieve this at no cost to the Council, we would like to hear from anyone in the district who has an idea of how we can celebrate St George's Day in 2010." St George's Day 2010 is on Friday 23 April, and the Council is already planning a number of events in and around St Martin's Square in Basildon, as well as other parts of the district. Anyone wishing to submit a suggestion should contact the St George’s Day event's planning team at: St George’s Day, Basildon District Council, The Basildon Centre, St Martin's Square, Basildon, Essex SS14 1DL.
RESIDENTS BACK TEXT RECYCLI NG
Cllr Malcolm Buckley with Basildon resident, Fiona Tugwell, and Waste Management Officer, James Hendry
Hundreds of people have signed up for an innovative new text message service, giving residents tips and reminders to boost the district’s recycling rates. Basildon Council's scheme, believed to be the first of its kind in the country, gives subscribers a free text message reminder the day before their recycling collections.
They also receive text tips the weeks between collections. The Council has achieved a 38% recycling rate and is encouraging even more people to start recycling. Cllr Malcolm Buckley, Cabinet Member for the Environment, said: “This is a great way of getting into the practice of recycling. “We need the help of every
household in the district to recycle over half our household waste every year.” Lisa Cubitt of Great Mistley said: "Sometimes you're not sure when your recycling week is, like when you're on holiday, or if you miss a week. You just get out of sync. “A text reminder the day before means I don't have to see what my neighbours are doing before
putting my bags out. I want to recycle as much as possible and this makes it as easy as possible." This service is free apart from the initial text message, which is charged at your standard network rate. Sign Up: Text ‘Pink’ and your postcode to 82727. For example, if your postcode is SS14 1XX, text: Pink SS14 1XX to 82727.
Supporting You Through The Recession 4-page pull out - See pages 7 to 10
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October 09
THIS EDITION’S HIGHLIGHTS p3 Age Restricted Sales scheme is an instant success with local businesses p4 Iconic Mother and Child Fountain is restored to its former glory p6 Great folk music, food and drink highlight the first ever Wat Tyler Folk Festival p7-10 District Diary 4-page recession pull out p14 Star rating brings millions of pounds for housing improvements The District Diary is produced by Basildon District Council’s Marketing and Communications Team. If you have a story, would like to comment, or would like to receive it in large print, braille or spoken word format, call 01268 294590. The District Diary is delivered free to 77,000 homes in Basildon, Billericay and Wickford. If you would like to advertise, or to enquire about rates and deadlines, call 01268 294201. Basildon District Council accepts no responsibility for the content of any advertisement published in District Diary and the inclusion of any advertisement does not imply approval or recommendation by the Council of either the terms of any offer or service contained in it or of the advertiser.
Council agrees Christmas opening A number of additional Council services will be available over the Christmas period in 2009.
The Council already provides services, such as refuse collection and selected leisure facilities, over this period. For the first time in many years, the Basildon Centre will be open to provide a range of public services for three
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days between Christmas and New Year - 29, 30 and 31 December. These include Revenues and Benefits, cashiers and housing. Full details of Council opening times and services to be provided over the Christmas period will be available shortly on Basildon Council's website and the December edition of the District Diary.
Tips for Safe Travelling by Taxi in Basildon district
1. Make sure there is a Basildon Council Licence Plate on the rear of the vehicle. Similar signs will be on the side doors.
2. Every licensed driver carries an I.D. badge. Ask to see it if you are in any doubt.
3. Don’t be overcharged. Taxis cannot charge more than the metered fare
4. Don’t ask the driver to carry more passengers than is allowed. The number permitted is shown on the Licence Plate.
5. Taxis can be hailed down in the street or found at an official rank. Private Hire vehicles must be booked in advance. For more information: Call 01268 294280 or email taxi.licensing@basildon.gov.uk
An exciting month for Basildon Chairman’s message from Cllr Mo Larkin It's been an exciting month for me as Chairman of Basildon District Council. I was delighted to be at the recent unveiling of the Mother and Child fountain in Basildon's town centre. This truly is an iconic piece of work that used to be the symbol of Basildon Council. The restoration work involved the installation of a new pump system and new filtration system as well as new stone work and a comprehensive clean up. Turn to page four for the full story. I also spoke at an event organised by Basildon District Volunteer Carers. I was able to raise a toast to the volunteers who give up their free time to assist the BDVC in providing day-to-day care services to the elderly and disabled residents of the district. It's great to see that, even in these tough times, people are still able and willing to give up their own time to help others. Many of the things they do are the sort of day-to-day tasks we
Councillor Mo Larkin
take for granted. But they genuinely help improve the standard of life for many of our residents. For instance, there are 14 volunteers who drive about 6000 miles each month, in their own cars, to take elderly and disabled residents to local care centres, out shopping, making health appointments and many other
Council and NHS give flu advice to businesses
Basildon Council has teamed up with NHS South West Essex to give thousands of local businesses advice on how to prepare for a potential second wave of Swine Flu. The Council's Chief Executive, Bala Mahendran, has written a joint letter with Dr Katherine Gronqvist, Director of Public Health at NHS South West Essex, to hundreds of local business people. Council Chief Exec. Bala Mahendran The letter gives advice on how businesses can minimise the Swine Flu. impact of a potential second wave “Most cases of Swine Flu are of Swine Flu and directs them to mild; however, it is important that sources of further information. everyone takes steps now to limit Bala Mahendran said: "This was the impact of the virus. a perfect time for us to work with “This includes identifying flu our NHS partners to promote this friends who can pick up antivirals important advice to the local and other supplies for you should business community. you become unwell, familiarising “At the Council, we are working yourself with the swine flu hard to ensure a potential second symptoms, practicing good wave of Swine Flu doesn't impact hygiene and making sure you on the delivery of public services. know the National Pandemic Flu “Much of what we have put in Service’s contact details should place is relevant to local you need it. businesses and we were happy to “To help people remember the share this advice along with key advice, we have produced a important messages from the leaflet, with an easy to follow NHS.” three-step guide. We encourage Dr Katherine Gronqvist said: all businesses to promote this "We are working with our advice to their staff. ” partners in the public sector and More advice on Swine Flu can in the community to ensure be found at www.nhs.uk or by everyone knows how to prepare downloading a copy of the leaflet for a potential second wave of by visiting www.swessex.nhs.uk.
daily appointments. What a wonderful difference they are making to the lives of those people. There are another eight volunteers who act as toenail cutters, looking after the feet of 300 elderly and disabled residents. Would you be willing to cut someone else's toenails? Well these volunteers do it. They visit every six weeks and do a great job. There are three volunteers who, through "Rethink", keep 135 wheelchairs repaired and maintained. And another four who in a typical year carry out over 400 home visits and escorted shopping trips. And those are just a few examples of the many caring roles they play. It was genuinely humbling to see the enthusiasm and dedication with which the volunteers go about these tasks. And it is a credit to them and the charity that some of the original volunteers from 1991 are still giving up their time for the organisation.
CRUNCH TIMES The Crunch Service is a mobile waste disposal facility that tours the district which residents can use to dispose of bulkier items of rubbish. Locations marked with (G) can also be used for the disposal of green waste. The Crunch Service is not suitable for paints, oils or other waste liquids. 7 November Fryerns - Ghyllgrove opposite The Upway Laindon Link - near Monastery Drive 14 November Wickford - Keats Way garage opposite No. 3 (G) Lee Chapel South - The Knares service area rear of 58-92 21 November Laindon - Five Links Somercotes service road near shops Wickford - Alderney Gardens rear of shops Ramsden Bellhouse - Village Hall car park (G) 28 November Billericay - Little Burstead car park (G) Langdon Hills - Valance Way junction with Debden Green 5 December Barstable West - Church Road junction with Clickett Hill Laindon - Basildon Drive junction with Dickens Drive Pitsea - Kenneth Road layby 12 December Fryerns - Craylands r/o shops and The Lichfields Lee Chapel North markhams Chase Ctr (G) Laindon - Steeple View Kings Crescent
October 09
Bogus caller
scam alert
Basildon Council is urging residents to remain vigilant of bogus callers and telephone fraudsters in the district after a new bogus caller scam has emerged. The warning follows concern raised by a local resident, who received a call from someone claiming to represent the Council. Cllr Phillip Turner, Cabinet Member for Resources, did not want to alarm residents but advised them to be alert: “Unfortunately, there are occasionally some unscrupulous operators out there who pose as Council representatives. “All Council officers carry appropriate identification with them. Residents can call the Council to verify the identity of Council representatives, whether they are contacted over the telephone or in person at home. I would advise residents to be vigilant when asked for personal details or for entry to their property.” The Council has put a warning on the website to make sure residents are aware of potential scams and remind them of appropriate security measures.
Operation Vigilance
The Home Office has chosen Basildon’s Community Safety Partnership (CSP) as one of 35 areas to pilot a new scheme code named Operation Vigilance. The scheme, aimed at intensively tackling burglary and robbery, provides money for specific initiatives combating these crimes. The CSP is getting a share of the £3m pot to tackle and prevent burglary and personal robbery. Members of the Partnership, specifically the Police, the Council, and Probationary Service are working closely together to crack down on the known offenders who cause most damage to communities. The scheme will also offer support to offenders who have served their punishment in an effort to help them integrate back into society and free themselves from a life of crime. Bala Mahendran, Chair of the CSP said: “Basildon has seen an overall reduction in crime over the last decade and we will continue to take a tough, proactive stance to keep it down. This scheme helps us to target known offenders, focusing our efforts on robbery and burglary issues facing our communities.”
‘Challenge 25’: an instant success
Cllr Richard Moore with Police, Trading Standards and business representatives
Basildon’s Community Safety Partnership age restricted sales initiative is proving to be an instant hit with local businesses across the district. The campaign aims to reduce the sales of age-restricted products to young people, and interest in the retail pack being offered to relevant businesses has been huge. The free training offered in October has also been welcomed by the trade. Advisory visits have been rolled out with numerous retailers signing up to the ‘Challenge 25’ contract, committing them to responsible retailing practices.
The community also holds the key to ensuring this campaign is a success as the early part of this year saw an increase in adults purchasing alcohol for children. It is an offence to supply alcohol to a person under 18 years old and Trading Standards and Police Community Support Officers will target these types of sales during their patrols. Basildon Council’s Cabinet Member for Development Control and Customer Services, Cllr Richard Moore, said: "Reinforcing the message to retailers not to sell restricted products to under- aged people is necessary if we want to keep our
communities and young people safe. I am pleased to see how successful the 'Challenge 25' campaign has been as this shows that local businesses are taking this important matter seriously." The campaign continues into 2010 and its success will be measured by comparing the test purchase results carried out by Trading Standards officers. The age restricted sales initiative led by Basildon Council’s Environmental Health Service is being delivered in partnership with Essex County Council’s Trading Standards, and Essex Police.
Safer roads with CCTV Smartcar
Basildon Council’s new CCTV Smartcar is having an impact on dangerous parking across the district. Basildon Council’s Cabinet Member for the Environment, Cllr Malcolm Buckley, said: “Dangerous parking can make pedestrian accidents more likely, as well as posing a hazard to other drivers on the road. “Using the CCTV Smartcar will help the Council deter drivers who park illegally and carelessly in the district.” Officers using the car have been issuing tickets for dangerous parking since its launch in September. Many of these were for illegal parking outside schools, bus stops and road crossings. The highly visible CCTV enforcement vehicle uses GPS, infrared and automatic number
plate recognition technology (ANPR) to clamp down on dangerous parking along high streets, main routes, outside schools and in areas where loading and unloading is not permitted.
The CCTV Smartcar is the first vehicle of its kind in the country to be used in this way, and it will also be used to deter more serious environmental crimes such as commercial flytipping and dumping.
Cllr Malcolm Buckley with Civil Enforcement Officers
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NEWS IN BRIEF
Benefit cheats plead guilty
Two fraudsters claiming benefits they were not entitled to have been convicted, thanks to help from Basildon Council. Two men from Basildon pleaded guilty at Basildon Magistrates Court to being overpaid benefits. The first man pleaded guilty to two charges of failing to notify the Council or the Department of Work and Pensions that he was working despite claiming benefits. He was overpaid by £5807.72 which included £2627.89 of Housing Benefit, £566.66 of Council Tax Benefit and £2613.17 of Income Support. He was sentenced to 200 hours unpaid work and ordered to pay £900.00 in costs following a Council investigation. The second man was sentenced to 50 hours unpaid work and ordered to pay £50.00 after Council officers found his claim showed that he had been overpaid £3096.30 in benefits.
Council praised for fight on fraud
Basildon Council is one of a handful of local authorities to be praised in a national report on fighting fraud. The Audit Commission report identifies a sharp increase in the number of people claiming Single Person Discount along with an increasing number of fraudulent applications across the country. People claiming this discount are entitled to a 25 per cent reduction in their Council Tax. The report used the Council as a case study in taking a proactive approach to detecting this type of fraud. Cabinet Member for Resources, Cllr Philip Turner, said inclusion in the report shows Basildon as a leader in fighting fraud. “This type of fraud is a criminal activity that costs the taxpayer. We are committed to investigating and prosecuting cheats who falsely claim discounts they are not entitled to. “Inclusion in the report sends a message to those who think they can get away with it. There is no such thing as lesser types of fraud. We will use innovative techniques to protect the public purse.” Using data matching, the Council reviewed the number of people claiming the discount and uncovered over 600 fraudulent claim totalling £235,000, most of which has been paid back.
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October 09
NEWS IN BRIEF
Work on town centre lift and stairs begins
Work to complete the building of the new public lifts and stairs in the Town Square has started. The main works should be completed by December and final operational checks on the lifts done in January. It is hoped the new staircase will be ready for use by the end of the year, enabling the temporary staircase to be removed. Replacement paving will then be completed in the New Year. As work by the O’Connor Group to develop Northgate House and build new lifts and stairs faltered due to the recession, the Council’s Cabinet agreed to complete the work to provide access from the Town Square to High Pavement. Councillors have also agreed to use all possible means to recover its costs from the O’Connor Group in completing the work.
Mother and Child fountain restored Work to restore Basildon’s iconic mother and child fountain to its former glory has been completed. Restoration work on the Grade II listed fountain, which used to be the symbol of Basildon Council, started at the beginning of August. The work involved the installation of a new pump and filtration system, as well as new stone work and a comprehensive clean up. Work on the fountain is important to Basildon Council not only because it helps to preserve a piece of Basildon’s heritage, but also because the Council has a statutory duty to look after listed buildings and monuments. Cllr Stephen Horgan, Deputy Leader of Basildon Council, said: “I am delighted that restoration work on the mother and child fountain has been completed. “It is a well-loved symbol of Basildon and an important part of the district’s heritage. “This is part of our on-going commitment to keeping the fountain in the town centre and restoring it to its original glory.” The £30,000 project was funded
Cllr Mo Larkin, Chairman of the Council at the unveiling of the restored Mother and Child fountain in Basildon Town Centre
from the £2m Homes and Communities Agency grant for town centre improvements.
Late night opening for key Council services
Late night opening times are running to give residents more flexible access to Council services. The trial means that residents can access the cashiers, Housing and the Revenues and Benefits
This is the first time any restoration work on the fountain has been carried out. Service, as well as the main reception at the Basildon Centre at St Martin’s Square every Thursday until 8pm. The amount of people using the extended service, as well as customer feedback, will be monitored to determine if the extended hours should be made permanent. The trial opening times continue until the end of this year.
Young musicians showcase talent at Boom Room
To advertise in the District Diary please call Angela Christall on 01268 294201 or email angela.christall@basildon.gov.uk. As with all District Diary adverts, publication does not imply any guarantee of service or recommendation by Basildon Council.
Young musicians from the Basildon district have showcased their talent with an evening of performances at the Towngate Theatre. The Boom Room was set up by Basildon Council for young people to enable them to have a place to perform in front of their peers. Everyone that is part of the Boom Room including the Boom
Room Team, acts, and audience are between 13 to 19, or up to 25 for those with additional needs. Cllr Andrew Baggott, Cabinet Member for Community, said: “Basildon has a proud record of producing world class musicians and this was a great opportunity to discover the next generation. Bands that played at the event include Athos, Never Near the Above and Basic.
COUNCILLORS Billericay East Tony Archer 01277 657814 David Dadds 01277 829808 Stuart Sullivan 01268 560477 Surgery as Burstead below Billericay West Anthony Hedley 01277 626198 Stephen Horgan 01268 449527 Phil Turner 01277 633918 Surgery as Burstead below Burstead Kevin Blake 01268 470597 Geoffrey Buckenham 01277 622020 Richard Moore 01277 627266 Surgeries on last Saturday of month, 10.30am to 12.30pm, Billericay Library, 143 High Street, Billericay. Crouch Stuart Allen 01268 284225 Terri Sargent 01268 288766 Surgeries on first Saturday of month, 9.30am to 10.30am, Noak Bridge Village Hall, Coppice Lane, Noak Bridge and third Saturday, 9am to 10am, Steeple View Memorial Hall, Willowfields. Fryerns Paul Kirkman 01268 474528 Surgeries on third Wednesday of the month, 7.30pm to 8pm at The Ashleigh Centre, Whitmore Way, Basildon. Alan Davis 01268 525406 Janet Payn 01268 477989 Laindon Park John Dornan 01268 282175 Jilly Hyde 01268 414126 Frank Tomlin 01277 625692 Langdon Hills Sandra Hillier 01268 490201 Stephen Hillier 01268 490201 Lee Chapel North Lynda Gordon 01268 417565 Richard Rackham 01277 624932 Nigel Smith 01268 545483 Nethermayne Ben Williams 01268 281271 Geoff Williams 01268 415348 Linda Williams 01268 415348 Surgeries on first Saturday of month at Vange Scout Hut, second Saturday at Kingswood Play Leadership building, third Saturday at Haven Close AP Scheme, fourth Saturday Lee Chapel South Community Centre, all 10am to 11am. Pitsea North West Andrew Baggott 01277 634375 Ron Livesey 01268 470028 First Sunday of November at Chalk End/Chestnuts and first Saturday of December at Beambridge Keith Bobbin - travelling surgery call 01268 556158 for details Pitsea South East David Abrahall 01268 440082 Ann Blake 01268 470597 Mo Larkin 01268 413936 Surgeries on second Monday of the month, 6.30pm to 7.30pm, outside Pitsea Leisure Centre, Northlands Pavement, Pitsea. Cllr Blake also holds a surgery; the Benbow Club, 77 Pound Lane, Bowers. Call for info St Martin’s Phil Rackley 01268 410700 Pat Rackley 01268 410700 Surgeries on first Monday and third Tuesday of month, 2pm to 3pm at The Basildon Community Resource Centre, 1 The Gore, Basildon. Vange Swatantra Nandanwar 01268 453749 Surgeries on second Sunday of month, 11am to 12noon at the Luncies Meeting Hall, Luncies Road (off Timberlog Lane), Vange. Luke Mackenzie 07919 517376 Wickford Castledon Malcolm Buckley 01268 472586 Sylvia Buckley 01268 472586 Wickford North Tony Ball 01268 454564 Carole Morris 01268 457488 Michael Mowe 01268 463564 Wickford Park Don Morris 01268 457488 Christopher Jackman 01268 571843 First Saturday of month from 9.30am to 11.30am at Noak Bridge, Village Hall, Coppice Lane, Noak Bridge and third Saturday of month, 10am to 12noon at Wickford Library.
October 09
Basildon local service directory Beauty
NOW OPEN RADIANCE BEAUTY ROOMS S p ec i al i s i n g i n M a s s a g e s , F a c i a l s , Wa x ing , Bo d y a nd H o l isti c T re a tm e nts
New customers get 10% off first treatment!
Full Body Spray Tan now available for only £16!
Builders
DON’T MOVE! BUILD OUT
SJ O’SULLIVAN EXTENSION SPECIALIST
Patios Decorative brickwork Garden paths New builds Fencing Garages and porches
No job too small, free estimates. Call Steve on 07986 186914 or 01268 449419
Eversley Leisure Centre, Crest Avenue, Pitsea Tel: 07799 251799
Cleaning
Dancing
Domestic Cleaning & Ironing Services
We offer an efficient, reliable service on a regular basis or as required Competitive rates
References available
Tel: 01268 417699
Helpline
BASILDON REDUNDANCY HELP LINE Call:
01268 294629 Email: TRAINING@BASILDON.GOV.UK BASILDON’S REDUNDANCY HELP LINE IS HERE TO HELP YOU!
Tribal Unity
Pure American Tribal Style Bellydance classes in your area Visit www.tribalunity.co.uk for more details
Airport Shuttles
GATWICK
£35 single £50 return STANSTED
£25 single £40 return LUTON
£40 single £65 return HEATHROW
£70 single
Kids Go Free
Call 0871 6661 757
Book online SkyTransfers.com for instant ticket Extra seats £12 single £15 return from same address
We are a small, friendly Christian church based in Laindon West.
For all occasions -Sample Price List
Door to door services - All prices returns O2 Arena from £12pp West End Theatres from £16pp Chessington/Thorpe Park from £16pp Ascot, Newmarket, Sandown from £14pp Brighton/Epsom from £18pp
Tel: 01268 521186
Takeaway
Lickin’ f r i ed Chi cken
5 Church Road, Vange 01268 524072
B a rg a i n menu : £ 1 . 9 9 e a c h
2 pcs chicken and chips 3 hot wings and chips 1 chicken tortilla wrap 1 pc chicken, 2 wings, chips 1 chicken burger, 2 wings Plus: pizza, kebabs and burgers
9.45am Morning service, Sunday School and Youth Group 5.30pm Evening service 01268 453170
Dancing ADULT PARTNER DANCE CLASS A fusion of Modern Jive and Salsa for all
Lee Chapel Youth ‘A’ U/14’s 2008/09 Southend Premier League Runners up. Looking for players of a good standard in all positions.
Every MONDAY in BASILDON
Selex Sports & Leisure Club, Gardiners Way, SS14 3AP 8pm-11pm First class FREE with this advert (Normally price £7) Bring this advert to the front desk anytime before 31 January 2010 This offer is for NEW MEMBERS ONLY Haven’t got a partner? Think you can’t dance? Bored in the evenings? Then this class is for you!
Training Tuesdays and Saturdays Whites Farm, Barleylands.
JOIN A WINNING TEAM.
Join a CEROCnights evening for a totally new experience
MAINTENANCE LIMITED Custom fitted kitchens design, supply, installation
all managed by one team i.e. services including electrics, plastering, tiling, flooring and gas also plumbing and shower specialist, cabinet maker, custom fitted bedroom and bathroom furniture telephone: 01268 769096 mobile: 07950 708573 email: info@jd-maintenance.co.uk www.jd-maintenance.co.uk
UW - AD 107mm x 60mm
www.laindonfreechurch.org.uk
Football
Maintenance
Thursday 8pm-10pm Eversley Leisure Centre Crest Avenue, Pitsea
We hold services every Sunday at Laindon West Community Centre, Hoover Drive in Basildon.
01268 206210
Karate
Email: chris@wofa.co.uk
Shuttle buses
Minibuses with Drivers
TEL: 01634 240700 www.cerocnights.com
The Filipino art of stick & knife fighting (Adults only)
Church
Buses
Come join us...
Kali/Escrima
For more details call Joe 07778 381911 or Steve 07717 502754
Photographer
Restoration
Fresh, vibrant images for websites, brochures, advertising.
Craftsman Restoration est 1981
Swan Photography www.swanimages.co.uk
email: info @ swanimages .co.uk phone: 01268 544541 or 07595 757785
09:53 Page Walkers
3/9/09
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Don’t take Health and Independence for granted, the walking frame specialist call now on 01268 419 288 Keep active and reclaim your independence with our range of Uniscan Walkers... Do you: • • • • • •
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Struggle to get around the home? Only go out when you have someone with you? Worry about losing your independence? Become tired and need to rest often? Get short of breath when walking? Think you may fall when you are out and about?
If this sounds like you or someone you care about, maybe it’s time to consider a walking frame.
Specialists in Re-Upholstering and French Polishing Free Estimates, Collection, Delivery Satisfaction Guaranteed 10% Discount for the Over 50’s Tel: 01268 573835
‘ Furniture the way it used to be made ’
Wills ENDEAN INDEPENDENT WILLS
Protecting Your Assets Wills Lasting Powers of Attorney Living Wills Document Storage Probate Home Visits
Member of the Society of Will Writers 10% discount on production of this advert 01268-453872 / 07870-116757 www.endean-independent-wills.net
Uniscan Limited, 38 Hornsby Square, Southfields Industrial Estate, Laindon, Basildon SS15 6SD. www.uniscan-walkers.co.uk
To advertise here call Angela Christall on 01268 294201 or email angela.christall@basildon.gov.uk. The deadline for the December edition is Monday 2 November and adverts cost £25 each. As with all District Diary adverts, publication does not imply any guarantee of service or recommendation by the Council.
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October 09
Great music and ale highlights from the Wat Tyler Folk Festival Folk music, local ales and an abundance of food was the highlight of the first ever Wat Tyler Folk Festival in September. Held at the newly opened £2.2 million Wat Tyler Heritage Centre in Pitsea, nearly 1000 festival goers enjoyed hours of entertainment from some of the best known and most respected names in the world of folk music. Headlining the festival was legendary duo David Swarbrick and Martin Carthy, performing together again after a 14-year break. Spectators also enjoyed a variety of real local ales produced at Crouch Vale Brewery in Chelmsford while listening to a host of other veteran folk performers such as Martin Simpson, winner of the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards 2008. Other more contemporary folk acts included the Kittiwakes trio who wowed the crowd with their Norwegian folklore songs, while Essex boys Mawkin: Causley treated the crowd to a musical medley of instrumental folk music. Cllr Kevin Blake, Cabinet Member for Leisure and Open Spaces said: “The folk festival was a wonderful day out for all the family. “Against the backdrop of the beautiful Wat Tyler Country Park, there was an excellent line-up of old and new folk acts and lots of local food and ale to enjoy.”
Basildon Council has joined social networking site Facebook to promote projects and events run by the Council and the Towngate Theatre. An accompanying group Basildon Events - has been set up which features a full list of events at the Towngate. It will also be used to tell residents about future events.
Facebook users can become a 'friend' of the Council and then access photographs of all major events. They will also be kept up to date on forthcoming initiatives happening across the district.
Nikki Gibson from Wickford said: “My friends and I really enjoyed the Folk Festival at Wat Tyler Park. There was a good mix of different types of vibrant folk music to listen to, and the new facilities are fantastic with activities for all the family to enjoy. “The real ale was very nice and the whole event was good value for money. I would love to see the festival held again next year.” James Partridge of Crouch Vale Brewery said: “The Wat Tyler Festival was excellent! There was a good line-up and the whole event was very well run, especially considering this is the first one held. “We had a fine sunny day and the Wat Tyler Heritage Centre provided a nice setting for the festival. The local beer was also well received - I had to drive back to the brewery twice to get further supplies!” The festival, held as part of the Basildon’s 60th birthday celebrations, was judged a great success and organisers, Basildon Council's Countryside Services, are hoping to stage a similar event next year. For more images from the event, visit www.basildon.gov.uk.
web: To find out more on the Wat Tyler Centre, visit wattylercountrypark.org.uk tel: To book the new Centre call 01268 550088
RECESSION GUIDE It’s been a tough year as a result of the current economic climate. At Basildon Council, we have been working hard to provide advice and services to help our local community and business people weather the storm.
£300,000 to help beat the Recession
This has included additional support in the areas of employment, benefits, housing, skills and education. Within this special four-page pullout, we have put together all this information in a single place.
You will find details on a vast number of services, help and advice available to you in the district. It will also give you an insight into what we, as a Council, have been doing to assist you. Cllr Tony Ball, Leader of Basildon District Council
Are you getting the healthy benefit?
Basildon Council has allocated £300,000 towards recession-busting initiatives to help residents during these difficult economic times. Schemes such as free weekend car parking have already seen results with local companies reporting increased business as a result. Cllr Stephen Horgan, Deputy Leader of the Council, said: “Basildon Council is taking the recession very seriously indeed, and we are doing everything we can help individuals and businesses who need urgent support to ensure that Basildon is in the best possible position to capitalise as we start to come out of recession. A four-month trial of extended opening hours at the Basildon Centre on Thursday evenings has started and the Council’s Housing team has introduced a rent deposit scheme for households in priority need. The Council is also working with its regeneration partners to increase jobs and opportunities for local businesses. The development of Five Links will create a number of new apprenticeships, while the developer for Fryerns and Craylands, Swan Housing Association, keen to work
with local companies, is organising a Meet the Buyer Event in early 2010. The association is also investing in the establishment of Basildon Education and Skills Development (BEST) to take forward the development of skills interventions arising from major regeneration projects. Supporting the district’s business sector is crucial to the survival and recovery of the local economy and the Council has formed partnerships with both large and small businesses to support their recovery from the recession. The Council is working with partners to co-ordinate the support it gives to local businesses to ensure it is appropriate and responds to the needs of local companies. Cllr Phil Turner, Cabinet Member for Resources, said: “The difficulties caused to local people and businesses by the recession are not new, but they are being experienced by a larger number of people. Basildon Council has a strong history of supporting the most vulnerable people in our society and we will continue to do so.”
New home for Credit Union Resident speaking to a Healthy Benefit Roadshow representative
Join health and benefits experts across the district for ‘drop in’ sessions offering advice and support to help you through the economic downturn. With the rules on benefits changing this winter, now is the time to make sure residents are getting the healthy benefit. The Healthy Benefit Roadshow is a series of ten events being delivered across the Basildon, Billericay and Wickford District. It provides the opportunity for residents to talk to professional advisers in the areas of health and community benefit who can offer assistance and point residents in the right direction for further support. Health agencies will be on hand giving advice on what options are available for those looking at creating a healthier lifestyle. Some events will offer spot checks on health and advice on the many services available that can help you become healthier.
Community support representatives will also give advice and guidance to disabled residents, from advice on how to adapt your house to increase your mobility to ensuring you are receiving any financial support you are entitled to. Cabinet Member for Community, Cllr Andrew Baggott, said: "Having access to the relevant information and advice is key if residents are going to live healthy lives and access the benefits they are entitled to. “I encourage everyone to make time to meet with the experts available at these roadshows who can help in making informed decisions." The Healthy Benefits Roadshow is funded by South West Essex NHS and delivered through Basildon Council’s Sustainable Communities department and the Local Strategic Partnerships Working Neighbourhoods Group.
Visit a roadshow near you:
Monday 2 November 3pm to 6pm Shotgate Community Hall Bruce Grove, Wickford, SS11 8QZ
Wednesday 11 November 2pm to 5pm King Edward Hall, King Edward Road, Laindon, SS15 8JF Tuesday 24 November 6pm to 9pm Blue House Community Centre Laindon Link, Basildon, SS15 5UH Tuesday 8 December 4pm to 7pm Wickford Community Centre Market Road, Wickford, SS12 0AG Monday 11 January 9.30am to 12.30pm Laindon Community Centre Aston Road, Basildon
Cllrs Frank Tomlin and Luke Mackenzie with volunteers from the Craylands Credit Union
A service helping the residents of Craylands with their money has found a permanent home. After months in a temporary accommodation, the Craylands Credit Union has relocated to the Greenshoots Centre, Ely Way. Open between 9am and midday, the credit union helps people take control of their money by encouraging them to save what they can through saving accounts, and borrow only what they can afford to pay back through low
cost loans. Cllr Frank Tomlin, Cabinet Member for Housing, said: “Through the recession, more and more borrowers have turned in desperation to loan sharks, paying interest of over 2,500 per cent. Credit unions provide an alternative, offering access to savings accounts and low cost loans.” It costs £4 to join, but the first 50 Craylands residents to sign up will have the fee paid for them.
Helping you out of the
RECESSION The credit crunch, which has led to the current recession, is taking its toll on all of us. For some, the problems have made a bad financial situation even worse, for others it may be the first time money worries have become an issue.
pullout aims to provide guidance about the different types of problems you, as residents, might find yourself in, and the Council departments and organisations that can offer help.
Our website also has pages dedicated to support The Council and all its relevant partners are rapidly through the recession, this can be found at increasing their response to the recession, and this www.basildon.gov.uk Unemployment & Redundancy Unemployment and redundancy is not only about losing your job, it can affect many other aspects of your life, especially if it happened suddenly. Therefore, getting back into and maintaining employment can have a drastic effect on other areas like rent and mortgage payment, gaining affordable credit, paying off debts, keeping up with council tax payments and maintaining a saving habit. If you are unemployed or have recently been made redundant, there are several organisations and schemes that can help you to look for employment. For help in finding redundancy support services call the redundancy help line: Call: 01268 294629 Email: gov.uk
training@basildon.
Looking to start your own business? Then the National Open College Network Level 2 Award in Self Employment and Enterprise could be for you. The qualifications cover practical issues involved in setting up and running a business. On completion learners will be able to demonstrate the required knowledge and skills to successfully either start up and/or run a small business enterprise. For more information call Basildon Enterprise Agency 01268 410400 or ITEC on 01268 286929.
Debt Management Whether it’s through credit cards, door-stop lenders, loan sharks or lack of knowledge about what financial products are available, debt in a recession can become a huge burden. Learning to manage your budget effectively can be Basildon trade school difficult, but help and advice is at hand through the To help gain new skills to Citizen’s Advice Bureau. increase employability and to look into potential career If you feel at risk from loan changes, the Trade School sharks, the ‘Stop Loan scheme run by Basildon Sharks’ team can offer Renaissance Partnership, in guidance and have been conjunction with Prospects specially set up to clamp College, can help with routes down on loan shark activity across Essex. The number to into manual jobs. call is 0300 555 2222 (local For those young adults that call rate, including inclusive are at risk of becoming minutes from mobiles) or NEETs (not in education, you can text the following: employment or training), the “loan (space) shark (space) Trade School initiative has +Your Message” to 60003 or just secured an additional email us at: £110,000 funding to stoploansharks@birmingham. continue to run for another gov.uk 2 years providing training tasters in engineering and Paying bills by direct debit is construction for fifty 14-16- a good way to manage your year-old young people. The money and keep up with Trade School has an 80 per bills such as council tax. cent success rate for its pupils To pay your council tax by of accessing further training, direct debit please contact apprenticeships and 01268 294544. employment. The Trade School is run by a number of Redundancy help line partners, including the Council, Prospects College If you are an employer or and local private sector an employee facing companies. redundancy, then call the Contact: Doreen Stepney on 01268 294763 or visit www.basildontradeschool. co.uk For details of other training, learning and apprenticeship opportunties, contact Basildon Renaissance partnership: 01268 294057
redundancy hotline on 01268 294629. The line is open Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 4.30pm with an answer phone outside of these times. All messages will be responded to within one working day.
Small loans help May be available from the Bank of Essex on a secured basis to existing businesses that are struggling to access funds through normal banking channels. Banking on Essex will offer a locally-focussed approach where local knowledge and relationships are paramount. Visit: www.bankingonessex.com for more information.
Case Study: Response to redundancy programme (R2R) What is R2R? A new East of England Response to Redundancy programme has recently been launched. The funding for this comes from EEDA and the European Social Fund. The Beyond 2010 programme (hosted by ExDRA) manages the service, which links unemployed workers to jobs and training. R2R offers all those eligible a free one-to-one Information and Advice session, lasting around an hour. This is run with a professionally trained careers adviser. What can it help me with? The programme aims to assess your current skills, explore your future career options and identify any training needed to improve your existing skills or help you to change career direction. How do I find out more? Those that have recently been made redundant can find out more details on this by calling Philip Shackleton 07773 818223 or by emailing philip.shackleton@tchc.net
Business Assist We have formed a referral network of partners who wish to help businesses by making referrals to each other. This joins up business support and advice, and is only an email away. So whether you need help or have a great idea, email: business-assist@basildon.gov.uk
Benefits
Free Welfare Rights Service If you need help with claiming Social Security benefits, the Council has a free Welfare Rights Service, provided by Impact, a local cooperative. The advisers can: • Do a benefit check to see if there are any extra benefits you or your family can claim • Help you with claim forms • Help with an appeal, etc. Contact details You can see an advisor confidentially at one of the area offices in Pitsea, Felmores, Laindon or Central, or in Wickford Community Centre. To make an appointment, ring Impact on: • 01268 553553 for Wickford or Central appointments • 01268 465010 for Pitsea appointments • 01268 465161 for Laindon appointments • 01268 465200 for Felmores appointments If you are on a low income, and entitled to Legal Help, you can also see one of the advisors at a local solicitors, Martin Nossel & Co. They are contactable on 01268 289555 to make an appointment.
If you are feeling the pinch in any of these areas, a little extra cash can make all the difference. Many people are entitled to benefits and don’t realise. In Essex, millions of pounds worth of benefits go unclaimed every year, as do entitlements to council tax discounts. The Council’s Benefits Team can give you advice on your entitlement to Housing and/or Council Tax Benefits. They can also put you in touch with the right people at Jobcentre Plus to find out about other benefits as well. Address: PO Box 4 St Martin’s Square, Basildon Essex, SS14 1BY Telephone: 01268 294575 Website: www.basildon.gov.uk/benefits
Don’t worry about completing long complicated forms; one of the team can do this for you over the phone or you can come and see an advisor in person. If you have all the right supporting documents, there is an Express Service, which means you could have your entitlement confirmed in a couple of days. The Benefits Team can even arrange for someone to visit you at home to help with your claim. To make a claim or simply talk to someone about your entitlement, don’t wait and risk losing out on vital support, contact the Benefits Team. Email: benefitsection@basildon.gov.uk Visit the team of advisors in the Basildon Centre: Monday to Friday 9am to 4.30pm
If you need a home visit, please ring Impact on 01268 553553 for this to be arranged.
Case Study: Citizens Advice Bureau If a problem is urgent (e.g. an appeal), please let Impact know, so they can give telephone advice before seeing you in person.
Housing
Local Housing Offices:
For advice about keeping on top of mortgage and rent payments, the housing department at Basildon Council is running a number of schemes to help. You can contact them by calling 01268 294342. This team also offer an open door service at the reception of the Basildon Centre, as well as an appointments service.
Basildon: The Basildon Centre, St. Martin’s Square Basildon, Essex, SS14 1DL
St. George’s Community Housing is also on hand to give help and advice about available options if you are worried about your housing situation, they can be contacted on: Telephone: 01268 465050 Email: mailroom@sgch.org.uk Website: www.sgch.org.uk
Laindon: 5-8 Dunton Court, Aston Road, Laindon, Essex, SS15 6NX Pitsea: 13, Northlands Pavement, Pitsea, Basildon, Essex, SS13 3DU
Small Business Rate Relief Local businesses could be entitled to Small Business Rate Relief of up to 50 per cent depending on the rateable value of their property/properties. To find out more visit www.businesslink.gov.uk or contact the Council’s Business Rates Team on 01268 294540 or email businessrates@basildon.gov.uk
What is the CAB? The Citizens Advice service helps people resolve their legal, money and other problems by providing free information and advice from over 3,200 locations. Citizens Advice Bureau provide free, confidential and independent advice from locations including in bureau, GP surgeries, hospitals, colleges, prisons and courts. Advice is available face-to-face and by telephone. Most bureau offer home visits and some also provide email advice. What can it help me with? The CABs across Basildon District can help you with a large number of issues, including help to resolve debt, benefits, housing, legal, discrimination, employment, immigration, consumer and other problems and it is available to everyone regardless of race, gender, sexuality, age, nationality, disability or religion. Where can I find one? There are 3 CAB offices in Basildon District, below are their addresses and telephone numbers: Basildon Basildon Centre, St. Martins Sq, Basildon, Essex, SS14 1DL 0870 126 4042 Wickford Gibraltar Walk, Wickford, 01268 732094 Billericay Burghstead Lodge, 143 High St, Billericay, Essex, CM12 9AB 01277 651858 Along with the offices, the CAB also hold sessions in other offices around the district. To find out when and where these will be taking place, either visit the website www.basildon.gov.uk or call your nearest office.
MP: Town centres are key to economic recovery Two government ministers from opposite sides of the political spectrum have visited the Wat Tyler Centre in the past month. Shadow communities and local government minister Stewart Jackson set out the Tories' vision for town centres at a Regeneration and Renewal event at the new Wat Tyler Centre, attended by over 75 professionals from the regeneration sector. The shadow minister gave the keynote speech at the forum, which was co-hosted by Basildon Renaissance Partnership, in conjunction with Regeneration & Renewal magazine, and examined the role that town centres have to play in economic recovery. The event was introduced by
Basildon Council Chief Executive, Bala Mahendran, and new research by the magazine into the current state of town centres, and how regeneration agencies are working to enhance them, was also revealed. Shahid Malik, MP and Minister responsible for the Thames Gateway also visited the new centre as part of a wider tour of South Essex, and the new RSPB facilities at the Country Park. He was impressed with the new facilities, commenting that "residents of the Thames Gateway deserve the best, and that is what they have got here at Wat Tyler." Bala Mahendran also met with councillors and developers from the Kerala region (population 3m) of India to talk about
Cllr Tony Ball, MP Shahid Malik and Chief Exec. Bala Mahendran at the Wat Tyler Centre
Over 75 professionals from the regeneration sector attended the Regeneration and Renewal event at the new Wat Tyler Centre
international economic development, the recession and business in Basildon. The event at County Hall, Chelmsford was part of the
Council's strategy to help attract, retain and develop businesses within Basildon. India's economy has grown, and provides a significant opportunity
for Basildon companies. For more on international development, see the December edition of the District Diary.
Hundreds attend Your Future ‘09
Two time Olympic medallist James Cracknell speaking to young people at the Your Future ‘09 event
Join us for a Recession Busting/Benefits Marketplace event on Tuesday 3 November at the Eastgate Centre
Over 200 young people visited the first ‘Your Future 09’ at Basildon’s Towngate Theatre held in October. As well as offering 16 to 24 year olds from the Basildon district careers and training advice, and help with their future direction, visitors were also treated to a motivational speech from two time Olympic gold medallist James Cracknell OBE. James Cracknell won gold at Sydney 2000 and 2004 Athens Olympic games as part of the legendary coxless fours. James is also a six time world champion. Since his retirement from rowing, James has taken part in many adventures for charity, most recently racing across the South Pole with Ben Fogle in the BBC 2 programme ‘On Thin Ice’.
Cllr Mo Larkin, Chairman of the Council, who introduced James Cracknell at the event, said: “The event was excellent, and James Cracknell’s speech was brilliant. “He was very inspiring, and I think his speech will have given many of the youngsters the motivation to get into work or training.” The Basildon Local Strategic Partnership (LSP) funded event is part of Basildon Council, the LSP, and Basildon Renaissance Partnership’s ongoing commitment to helping young people access skills, education and employment. Several partners were involved including the Essex Connexions Centre and Job Centre Plus, local college and training providers, and the army who brought along a giant climbing wall.
For clear, impartial advice on your finances and a range of online tools to help you budget, choose financial products, borrow or plan for the future visit www.moneymadeclear.fsa.gov.uk or call 0300 500 5000. Lines are open from 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday, 10am to 6pm on Saturdays and 11am to 5pm on Sundays and Bank Holidays. Free specialist debt advice is also available from the National Debtline on 0808 808 4000 or at www.nationaldebtline.co.uk, or from Payplan on 0800 716 239 or at www.payplan.com
11
October 09
Basildon District Council - Summary of Accounts 2008/09 Analysis of Net Spend on Services
Income & Expenditure Account
Glossary
(includes income raised by the services) This account shows the day to day spending, such as salaries, repairs and supplies on the full range of services provided by the council. It also reflects any income raised by services e.g. from fees and charges.
11% Community 16% Corporate, Democratic and Central Services
An explanation of some of the terms found in this Summary
£000’s Community
4,427
Corporate, Democratic and Central Services
5,838
Environmental Health
1,642
Leisure
9,390
Other Housing Services
2,872
Other Services
5,409
12% Refuse & Recycling
Planning
1,685
6% Street Cleansing & Parking
Refuse & Recycling
4,779
Street Cleansing & Parking
2,227
4%
Environmental Health
24% Leisure 8%
Other Housing Services
14% Other Services 5%
Planning
Net cost of General Fund services
38,269
Add:
Capital Expenditure
Housing Revenue Account Money spent on buying, improving or upgrading of assets, mainly land and buildings, is referred to as capital expenditure. This type of spending must be treated separately from the running of day to day services. This is because the benefit of capital expenditure will be received over a longer period of time. The Council spent £19m on its land and property assets in 2008/09. This is how it was spent:
General Services
£ 000’s
The Sporting Village and Wat Tyler Heritage Interpretation Project
3,297
Improvements to buildings, play areas & open spaces
1,865
Neighbourhood & town centre improvements
1,388
Vehicles, Plant & Equipment
575
Other
530
7,655 Council Housing Improvement of the Housing Stock
67,864
Transfer to Reserves
645
Parish & Town Council precepts
291
Less: Interest earnings
(706)
Technical adjustments (reversal of impairments, pensions etc.)
(75,250)
Net Operating Expenditure
31,113
The total non-service income for 2008/09 was £31.2m. As the chart shows this was received from a combination of local and national taxes.
Received: Redistributed Non-Domestic Rates
13,551
Council Tax
15,416
9,668
Other
319
Government Grants
2,278
31,245
9,987 Housing General Fund
Net General Fund Surplus for the Year
Disabled Facilities Grants
564
Private Sector Decent Homes Grants
431
Affordable Homes Investment Grant
220 43% Redistributed Non-Domestic rates
18,857
50% Council Tax
Capital expenditure was financed from the following:
£000’s
Borrowing
4,289
Major Repairs Reserve - Stock Improvements
8,041
Capital receipts from asset sales
634
External funding of major projects
3,637
Other Capital contributions
1,613
Other
643
Total
18,857
The total value of expenditure left after income has been deducted General Fund The main revenue fund of the Council. Day to day spending and income from services is accounted for here. This excludes expenditure and income on Council Housing, which are accounted for separately in the Housing Revenue Account. Redistributed Non-Domestic Rates Refers to business rates that are paid into a national pool. The Government then reallocates this pool back to local authorities on a population basis. Depreciation A figure equating to the reduction in the value of an asset due to wear, consumption or any other decrease in its useful life. Impairment A reduction in the valuation of a fixed asset caused by an event occurring to the asset or to the economic environment in which it operates. Reserves A Council's accumulated surplus over the years. Reserves are available at the discretion of the Council to meet items of expenditure in future years. Technical Adjustments These are adjustments reversing out entries required to conform with UK required accounting practices which do not have an impact on the amount raised from Council Tax.
Non-Service Income Sources For Basildon
1,215 Total Capital Expenditure
132
Net Cost
7% Government Grants
A full copy of the Council's accounts is available on the Council website (www.basildon.gov.uk). If you have any comments or suggestions on the content of this summary or require further information relating to the Council's accounts, please contact: Basildon District Council, The Basildon Centre, St Martin's Square, Basildon, Essex, SS14 1DL or email: finance@basildon.gov.uk
Housing Revenue Account
Balance Sheet This shows the financial position of the Council or more simply what the Council is worth as at 31 March 2009
This account summarises income and expenses associated with the provision of council housing. There is no contribution from Council Tax towards expenditure.
£000’s Stock
Revenue Reserves
Money owed to the Council
The Council has a legal duty to maintain a sensible level of General Reserves. This account shows the level of the Council's Revenue Reserves as at 31st March 2009
Cash and investments
£000’s General Fund
5,261
Housing Revenue Account
2,418
Earmarked Reserves*: General Fund HRA
Total Reserves
Buildings and land owned by the Council
8,189 530
16,398
*These are reserves set aside for specific items such as insurance arrangements, replacement of IT facilities and other contingencies.
694,477 250 18,886 640
Total Assets
714,253
Borrowing
(133,520)
Money owed by the Council Provisions for future spending Liability related to Pension scheme
(22,812) (4,172) (56,693)
Income Council house rents Other income
£000’s (42,073) (4,905)
(46,978) Expenditure Repairs & maintenance Supervision & management Depreciation of Assets Other costs
Net Cost of HRA Service Interest payable Technical adjustments eg reversal of impairments
8,747 14,937 87,077 4,081
114,842 67,864 9,511 (77,703)
(68,192) Net Value of Assets
497,056
Net HRA Surplus for the Year The council owned 6,573 houses and bungalows and 4,913 flats at 31st March 2009.
328
12
October 09
Towngate Theatre 21st anniversary
Join the Jack and the Beanstalk spectacular!
Bueno chocolate bar, and the and, of course, handsome Jack. infamous shaking of his Tic Whether you are a child or a tacs. child at heart, three or 93, the Panto lovers are in for a treat Towngate’s production of Join Basildon favourite, as actor and TV presenter “Jack and the Beanstalk” will Simon Fielding as he returns Brain Blessed, voices the evil thrill and entertain you. this winter to star as Jack in giant who is determine to With 53 performances this panto spectacular packed make the lives of the villagers throughout December and with live music, action, a nightmare. January, now is the time to dancing, glitter, gags and lots However, Jack will be there book your tickets to have a fun and lots of laughter for all the to save Daisy the Cow and the filled time this Christmas at the family locals from the giant’s evil theatre. Simon, returns to the clutches but only with the help To book tickets or to find out Towngate Theatre after the of loads of cheering from lots more about Towngate’s current success of the 2008 production of boys and girls of all ages. or future programming, call of Cinderella and 2007 Towngate Theatre is proud to the Box Office on 01268 production of Snow White and be hosting its third nationally 465465, or log on to our web the Seven Dwarfs, which was acclaimed professional site www.basildon.gov.uk and his directing debut. He is also pantomime. click on the Towngate icon on a recognisable face from So a visit to the Towngate this the bottom of the web page. various high profile Christmas will bring you and commercials including your party face to face with Box Office: 01268 465465 Transport4London, Golden royalty, villagers, the wicked @ basildontowngate.com Grahams, a rather excited giant, magic beans, beanstalks
Fee-fi-fo-fum! Yes, that’s right, Jack and the Beanstalk is coming to the Towngate Theatre this Christmas!
Daisy the Cow at the Bell Tower in Basildon Town Square
Something for everyone this November...
Dominic Kirwan
Monday 9 November 2009 7.30pm £16.50 Main Auditorium
A true Irish star, with the looks and the voice to match, Dominic’s tremendous popularity and appeal makes him one of today’s most widely appreciated and respected artists Kev has sold in excess of 3.2 million albums worldwide. He is also regarded by Billy Connolly as the “world’s funniest Australian”
Mercury - 10th Anniversary Tour Wednesday 18 November 2009 7.30pm £14 Main Auditorium
Tony Stockwell
Thursday 19 November 2009 7.30pm £18.50 Main Auditorium
Kevin ‘Bloody’ Wilson
Tuesday 10 November 2009 7.30pm £20 Main Auditorium
Mercury’s ambition is to capture the sheer power Queen generated in their live performances. They deliver shows Queen themselves would have been proud of
Communicating with those who have passed, Tony delivers messages of love, reuniting them with their relatives. Deeply compelling, startlingly accurate and always humourous - an evening with Tony is like no other The Stylistics captured the imagination of the nation with their first single “You’re a big girl now”, a top-ten hit. Over the years they have continued to maintain a global popularity
The Stylistics
Tuesday 23 November 2009 7.30pm £23 Main Auditorium
TERMS & CONDITIONS - PANTOMIME COMPETITION DISTRICT DIARY Entries must be received by 4 December 2009. The winners will be drawn at random within 1 week of the closing date and will be notified within 7 days of the draw taking place. The winners are required to contact the Towngate Theatre to confirm acceptance of their prize within 14 days of notification. In the event of non-acceptance within the specified period, or if the person(s) is not contactable, the Towngate Theatre reserves the right to reallocate the prize awarded to the next randomly drawn valid entry or to forfeit the prize. By entering the competition, the winner(s) consents to take part in any publicity accompanying or resulting from this promotion, and for his/her name and county to be used for publicity purposes by Basildon District Council in printed and/or online formats. No purchase is necessary. Only one entry per person allowed. The prize consists of a family ticket (two adults and two children) to see the Jack and the Beanstalk production at the Towngate Theatre plus dinner at Nandos, Eastgate. No cash alternative will be offered. The prize cannot be exchanged or sold to a third party. In the event of unforeseen circumstances Basildon Council reserves the right to offer alternative prizes of equal or greater value. The prize draw is open to all residents of the UK, Isle of Man and Channel islands excluding employees of Basildon District Council and St Georgeʼs Housing, their immediate families, agents or anyone professionally connected with the promotion.
October 09
13
District joins Black History Making a difference Month celebrations
Basildon local Mirian Ojera, one of the acts lined up for Reggae Proms
The Basildon district has joined annual celebrations around the world to mark International Black History Month. Held in the UK in October, Black History Month highlights and commemorates the achievements and history of
people of African descent while also providing an opportunity for people of all ethnicities and backgrounds to celebrate and be informed about cultural diversity, integration and cohesion. Basildon, along with Essex, held a countywide celebration of Black History Month for the first
time that included a dynamic programme of cultural and popular music, discussion, film, dances, art, and festival events throughout the area. These events, organised and run by community groups, were a testament to community empowerment and what can be achieved by the community, and funded externally to the Council. Events included free live cultural and musical performance such as ”Reggae Proms” and “Night of Grime”, as well as storybook times and culture clubs at various libraries across the district. Cabinet Member for Community, Cllr Andrew Baggott, said: “International Black History Month is Basildon’s first celebration of the rich and varied culture we have in the district. With a melting pot of food, cultural arts, music and dance from around the world, the event had something for everyone to enjoy.” More information on Basildon Black History Month is available at www.basildonblackhistory.com
The work volunteers do in the district is being highlighted as part of national Make A Difference (MAD) Day on Saturday 31 October. MAD Day is your chance to pledge a little bit of your time towards doing a little something to help others in your community. There is a large number of organisations in the Basildon district who rely on volunteers to deliver their services. Many of these exist for the public benefit and provide services outside the normal reach of local agencies. From supporting and acting as advocates for the disabled, offering professional advice, to driving the elderly and infirm to hospital, the work of the volunteer really enriches the lives of residents in the district. Basildon District Council is supporting the day by encouraging people to sign a pledge card promising to give a little of their time to help out a
local organisation. These cards are available throughout the district and you will also be able to pledge time by phoning the BBC Essex hotline. The radio station is supporting the event with live interviews in the week before MAD day and, on the day, in the town centre. C l l r Andrew Baggott, Cabinet Member for Community said: “There are some amazing opportunities for volunteers in Basildon that often involve free on the job training, and work experience that may lead to paid work. “Volunteers get a great sense of achievement in giving a little back to their community and all together make a major difference to the quality of life of many residents in our community. The Council is working in partnership with the Working Neighbourhoods Group to help coordinate this event.
14
October 09
£100,000 for Star rating brings local groups millions for Local groups in Basildon can now access up to £100,000 to make improvements that matter to local residents thanks to the launch of the 2009/10 Community Initiatives Fund (CIF). Basildon Council is keen to ensure that all voluntary organisations take advantage of this funding opportunity provided by Essex County Council, to promote the social, economic or environmental well-being of the locality. Grants are for capital projects which could include community, social and recreational facilities, village halls, community transport initiatives, land purchases, playground equipment, environmental works and any related feasibility, design and planning work. The project should take into account the priorities of Essex County Council and Essex Partnership which include: tackling crime and anti-social behaviour; improving local environmental features; access to services; and supporting communities. Projects will be given preference if they can attract matched funding, have the potential to add value to other work being undertaken in the area, and have been identified in local ‘health checks’ or parish plans. Cabinet Member for Community
Services, Cllr Andrew Baggott said: “This is a great opportunity for organisations to raise much needed funding for worthy projects.” Applications are invited from bodies that are properly constituted and broadly representative of their local community or neighbourhood such as: town and parish councils or parish meetings; neighbourhood committees and forums; Residents’ Associations; and community organisations. The fund has so far distributed £9 million to 1,000 groups with grants ranging from a few hundred pounds to tens of thousands of pounds. The closing date for applications is Friday 6 November 2009. The judging panels for the Basildon District will meet on Tuesday 2 February 2010. For more information about CIF in Basildon please contact the CIF coordinator, Beverly Davies, on 07929 543523, or you can email: info@communityinitiativesfund.co.uk. Maxine Williams, Basildon Council’s Funding Officer will also be happy to help. Maxine can be reached at 01268 294406 or email: Maxine.Williams@basildon.gov.uk. Guidance notes and an application form can be downloaded from www.communityinitiativesfund.co.uk.
community housing
St Georges Community Housing Tenant and Leaseholder panel celebrate
Millions of pounds is being released to improve community housing across the district, after the organisation that manages Basildon Council's properties gained a two-star rating in an independent inspection. St Georges Community Housing is an arms-length management company and received the 'good' rating from the Audit Commission this month. As a result, the Government has announced £5m will be made available for improvements to the
housing stock for 2009/10. The offer of funding was originally withdrawn earlier this year. But following protests from Basildon councillors representing all parties, and members of the St George’s Community Housing board, the funding has been partly reinstated. Andrew Baggott, Basildon Council’s Cabinet Member for Arms Length Management Organisation Clienting, said: “With support from Councillors
across all parties, I am delighted the Government has reinstated at least some of the original funding. What great news for the tenants and this district and for the decent homes programme." Cllr Tony Ball, Leader of Basildon Council, said: “It has been a difficult few months for the tenants. First they were told we had access to this funding to make these improvements, and then it was withdrawn. This is very good news indeed.” John Robb OBE, St Georges Community Housing Chair of the Board, said: “I am very pleased the Audit Commission recognised the demonstrable improvements and changes to the way our services have been delivered over the past year. “Staff, Board Members, the Council and particularly our residents have put in a tremendous effort to achieve this result. “We have improved significantly as an organisation and I’m certain that we will be even better in the future.”
Overview and Scrutiny Committees: Getting to the root of local issues Reducing domestic burglaries, parking enforcement and the health of the district are just some of the issues being dealt with by Basildon District Council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committees in the coming months. There are four Committees covering a number of different areas. They are: Overview and Scrutiny Commission; Leisure and Health; Environment and Regeneration; and Community Safety and Housing. Samantha Nicholson, the Council’s Overview and Scrutiny Team Leader, explained how important these committees can be in the decision making process. She said: “By engaging residents on issues of concern to seek their views and holding meetings in public to consider a range of matters that affect the Council and its residents, councillors are able to examine, monitor and influence the
activities of the Council and its partners, bringing about positive outcomes for the district.” Members of Overview and Scrutiny have a busy year ahead with a number of matters that impact on residents already detailed in committee work programmes. Two task and finish groups, which are time limited investigations undertaken by a small group of councillors, have also been agreed. One will focus on young people not in education, employment or training and the other will review the Council’s 50+ Strategy, which sets out how the council aims to deliver on its commitment to improving the quality of life of local residents with a focus on those aged over 50. The Community Safety and Housing Scrutiny Committee will be holding a meeting in November to look at how the Council and partners, such as the
(L-R) Cllrs Swatantra Nandanwar, Geoff Williams, Sylvia Buckley and Anthony Hedley at a meeting
police, are working to reduce domestic burglaries in the district and to consider the effects of drug usage and repeat offending. Members of the Environment and Regeneration Scrutiny Committee will also receive a demonstration of the Council’s new enforcement Smartcar at their next meeting and will be discussing its operation and effectiveness.
Lead Member for Overview and Scrutiny, Cllr Sylvia Buckley, said: “Overview and Scrutiny provides councillors a real opportunity to influence and shape the services provided to local residents. “The strength of Overview and Scrutiny lies in its ability to have all the right people in the same room discussing key issues that impact on the lives of our
residents. “Getting to the root of a problem and making recommendations to solve issues of concern makes overview and scrutiny a valuable element of the decision making process.” For more information on the forthcoming meetings, and opportunities to contribute to the work of Overview and Scrutiny, visit www.basildon.gov.uk.
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October 09
Basildon Round Table's annual Fireworks Fiesta Thursday 5 November Gloucester Park, Basildon Open at 6pm, the display kicks off at 7.15pm £6 on the gates £5 in advance Under fives go free
www.basildonroundtable.co.uk
Get ‘On Ya Bike’ and discover Basildon!
Explore the hidden trails and cycle routes of Basildon by joining cycle groups across the district this autumn as part of Basildon Council’s “Get Out There!” project. Aimed at beginners, as well as expert cyclists, “On Ya Bike” helps people get fit and increase their confidence on a bicycle with the support of highly trained cycle instructors. Health rides are also available, which allow cyclists over 18 years to explore the cycle paths of the Basildon District. These rides are held every Tuesday from 2pm and on Fridays at 12noon. The first session is free and other sessions cost only £2 to participate. The duration of the rides gradually increase over the weeks. For more information on this and many other “Get Out There” activities available, visit www.getouttherebasildon.co.uk.
Teens join eight-week healthy eating project Girls are being taught the value of healthy eating and exercise in an eight-week teen cooking project. Basildon District Council, in partnership with Positive Futures and Change4Life NHS South West Essex Community Services, launched the project at St Andrews Church, Fryerns, Basildon, to teach girls the values of food and nutrition along with basic cooking skills, giving them confidence to cook. A project officer also advised on fitness and beauty techniques, with weekly sessions delivered by professional tutors from Basildon Adult College. Cllr Kevin Blake, Cabinet Member for Leisure and Arts, said: “The teen cooking project is a great way to instil confidence and teach young people new skills that will put them in good stead for the future. “Learning the importance of a
balanced diet is essential as part of a healthy lifestyle.” The girls use a food diary to write down the foods they eat on a daily basis and assess the effect eating healthily has, as well as, the difference they feel as a result. They are also treated to skin assessments to highlight the benefits of healthy eating on their physical appearance. Laura Gandon, Change4life team leader, NHS South West Essex Community Services said: “The NHS South West Essex Community Services Change4Life team is excited to be involved in this new programme. “Basic cooking is a life skill that all young people should have. As they become more independent, it is important that they can look after themselves and their health. “This programme will support those involved to Change4Life by eating well, moving more and living longer, happier lives.”
Change4Life cooking classes held during BasFest 2009
Slam dunk to keep fit
Molly Jerome & Lewis Cooper from Phoenix Swimming Club see Cllr Mo Larkin turning the first turf at the Sporting Village site. Printed on 75% recycled paper. Please recycle your District Diary after reading.
Free basketball sessions are being held to help young people keep fit. The new initiative from Positive Futures aims to encourage young people from ages 12 to 19 to play basketball as a way of keeping active, as well as learn new skills and techniques. Sessions are being held on a weekly basis and are held on Thursdays at James Hornsby High School from 5pm to 7pm, and every Friday at Markham’s Chase Leisure Centre from 6pm to 8pm. The Essex Pirates are supporting the scheme by sending down their professional players and coaches to deliver high quality sessions. Basketball is just one of many activities run by Positive Futures
Basildon District Council, The Basildon Centre, St Martin’s Square, Basildon, Essex, SS14 1DL. Website: www.basildon.gov.uk Switchboard: 01268 533333 Email: mailroom@basildon.gov.uk Chief executive: Bala Mahendran Leader: Councillor Tony Ball
to help promote social inclusion for young people aged between nine and 19 years old. Cllr Kevin Blake, Cabinet Member for Cultural Services, said: “This is another great project from Positive Futures and their work with Essex Pirates is giving young people the opportunity to help themselves keep fit and active whilst being trained by top-level professionals in the basketball field.” Part funded by Basildon’s Community Safety Partnership and Local Strategic Partnership, Positive Futures is widely recognised as a very effective way to engage young people, reduce anti-social behaviour and improve the health and fitness of the community.