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Summer 2013
rd a C ty l a y o L
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Collect 9 stamps and get your 10th visit FREE Avaliable from The Place (Pitsea Leisure Centre) tel: 01268465420 www.basildon.gov.uk/theplace
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In a move being hailed as going to the heart of the authority’s pledge to create greater opportunities for local people, Basildon Council is set to launch a £1million Community Investment Fund. The details of the fund will be discussed at the meeting of Basildon Council’s Cabinet on 6 June and a series of community events to be held across the borough this summer are being planned. The first event which community groups will be invited to is being planned for early July at the Towngate Theatre. The £1million fund was first announced in the council’s annual budget in February. Leader of the Council, Cllr Tony Ball, said: “The overarching priority of this administration is to improve our borough and with that the lives of our local people. We believe the best way to do this is to help people to help themselves; it’s the difference between a hand up
and a hand out. That is what creating opportunity is all about. “Recent economic events have forced all of us in local government to rethink the way we do things. We cannot just do things for people anymore; increasingly we need to find new ways to work with local people and community groups if we are to succeed in getting the best for our areas. Cllr Terri Sargent, cabinet member for community services, added: “The purpose of this new fund is to help community and voluntary groups deliver services and amenities that are not already provided. I also hope the fund will act as a real catalyst to increase the amount of volunteering across our borough, getting more and more people involved in working for their local community and playing their part. Cllr Stuart Sullivan, cabinet member for resources, will
be responsible for administering the fund. He explained how it will work: “We will be asking community groups to put in bids of £2,000 and upwards. This is not a handout. We will look carefully for evidence that the group involved is doing their bit and that the project will benefit the local community. For bids over £10,000 we will be looking for rigorous business planning and some level of match funding as well. “There will be clear criteria set out for groups to meet before they apply. The important thing is we want to work with people who want to work to improve their communities in some tangible way.” The fund is due to launch in early July when full details of how to apply will be made public.
More information on the Community Investment Fund - See page 2
INSIDE: BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT FEATURE - SEE PAGE 7
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SUMMER 2013
Mayor’s Message from Cllr Mo Larkin To comment on any story in this edition of the Borough Diary, please write to: Michelle EdwardsNorcisse, Editor, Borough Diary, Basildon Borough Council, The Basildon Centre, St. Martin’s Square, Basildon, Essex SS14 1DL, or email michelle.edwardsnorcisse@basildon.gov.uk. About the Borough Diary: This newspaper is produced by the Marketing and Communications team at Basildon Borough Council. It is published four times a year and delivered free to almost 80,000 homes in Basildon, Billericay and Wickford. Advertise in the Borough Diary: To advertise or enquire about rates and deadlines, call 01268 294201. Basildon Council accepts no responsibility for the content of any advertisement published in the Borough 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. Other formats: To receive the Borough Diary in large print, Braille or spoken word format, please call 01268 294590.
Mayor of Basildon Borough Council With summer upon us I am looking forward to attending the many community events our local and voluntary organisations have been hard at work to organise for Basildon borough residents. I am delighted to be commencing my fifth year serving local people, two years as chairman of Basildon Council and my third year as Mayor. Over the past year I have been supporting four local charities which I am pleased to announce will benefit from £33,853.01 raised through my fundraising efforts. Events such as the Mayor’s Charity Dinner and Dance, West & Coe Golf Day for St Luke’s Hospice, First Data Resources and The Edge’s various events for Age Matters, all helping to raise this fantastic amount which will assist Age Matters Basildon, Women’s Aid Basildon, St Luke’s Hospice and Lee Chapel North
Holiday Club continue their important work in supporting both our younger and older residents. Another project close to my heart is the Armed Forces Community Covenant, which I signed last November. This covenant promises to support our armed forces and residents as they work together to meet the needs of our past and present service personnel and the general community. Since this signing, an Armed Forces Summit has helped identify ways to do this. More on the summit is on page 14, and if you would like to assist in this project please do get in touch. I am also looking forward to seeing everyone at Armed Forces Day on Saturday 29 June (see page 4 for details). Finally I wish you all the very best for a happy and safe time this summer.
Mayor Mo Larkin
discounts for right to buy homeowners POTENTIAL homeowners have been given the opportunity to find out about the huge discounts available under the Right to Buy scheme at an event earlier this year. Hundreds of potential homeowners attended the event at Basildon’s Towngate Theatre in February. Minister of State for Housing and Local Government Mark Prisk also attended to speak to potential homeowners. Cllr Phil Turner, deputy leader of Basildon Council and cabinet member for housing and landlord services, said: “This event and ministerial visit were a huge success and helped raise the profile of the Right to Buy scheme and enabled the housing minister to see how tenants are taking advantage of it. “It was also a good opportunity for (L-R) Cllrs John Dornan and Tony Ball, Mark Prisk MP, and Cllr Phillip Turner tenants to speak face-to-face with officers and for the minister to see how and support on offer from Basildon Council for anyone we interact with residents. wanting to take up this offer.” “This is an opportunity not to be wasted as discounts Since the Right to Buy scheme was launched last year up to £75,000 are available to those who are eligible.” council tenants now have a greater opportunity to buy Housing Minister Mark Prisk said: “The reinvigorated their house and become homeowners. Right to Buy has opened the door to home ownership Under the scheme around 9,000 council tenants will for thousands of tenants across the country, so I was be able to take advantage of these discounts to help delighted to see during my visit the range of advice them buy their house.
Continued from front page
Community Fund Criteria Subject to change before cabinet approval WHO CAN APPLY • • • • • • •
A constituted, not for profit community or voluntary group A registered charity A community association A community interest company (not for profit) A social enterprise (not for profit) A community / voluntary group based in the Basildon Borough and providing a direct benefit to the local community. You have a bank account with at least two signatories who are unrelated and do not live at the same address.
WHO CANNOT APPLY • • • • • • • • •
A company or group whose aim is to make a profit including private businesses and sole traders A statutory body including a school or privately run pre-school, police force or health body, such as a hospital or GP surgery An international, national, regional or county-wide organisation, unless the project is specific to the Basildon borough A Parish or Town Council Another local authority A group or organisation that has an annual turnover of more than £50,000 A group or organisation that has provided unsatisfactory monitoring for any previous grants received from Basildon Council An individual A politically affiliated group / organisation
SUMMER 2013
CRUNCH TIMES The Crunch Service is a mobile waste disposal facility that tours the borough which residents can use to dispose of bulkier items of rubbish. Locations marked with a G can also be used for the disposal of green waste. The Crunch Service is not suitable for paints, oils or other waste liquids. The Crunch is from 9am to noon at each site, unless otherwise stated.
Saturday 8 June Wickford - Kershaws Close Rear of Nevendon Road Shops Billericay - Little Burstead Car Park *G* Fryerns – Ghyllgrove Opposite the Upway Chalvedon - Mill Green Layby near car park Saturday 15 June Laindon – Danacre Parking Area - 9am to 10.30am Laindon - Five Links Handley Green service road 10.30am to noon Luncies - Stagden Cross 9am to 10.30am Beech Road 10.30am to noon Fryerns - Frypa Hall Saturday 22 June Wickford - Kershaws Close rear of Nevendon Road Shops Saturday 29 June Wickford - Salcott Crescent junction with Heybridge Drive Lee Chapel North - Plough and Tractor Pub Pitsea - Chevers Pawen 9am to 10.30am Steeplehall 10.30am to noon *G* Ramsden Bellhouse Village Hall in car park Saturday 6 July Crays Hill Recreation Ground Billericay - Little Burstead Car Park *G* Laindon West - Hoover Drive 9am to 10.30am Nightingales 10.30am to noon Pitsea - Winifred Road Saturday 13 July Wickford - Bruce Grove *G* O/s Shotgate Community Hall Laindon - Noak Bridge Coppice Lane Langdon Hills - Valence Way junction with Debden Green Vange - Gordon Road Layby near Helpeston Saturday 20 July Pitsea Mount Brackendale Avenue Billericay - Hannikins Farm *G* Laindon Link - Monastery Drive Barstable - Barstable Club Long Riding
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Changing the way we do business Basildon Council is changing the way it does business, with a number of major changes to the Basildon Centre well underway. As part of the council’s ‘customer experience programme’, work on a new customer services centre that will deal with the majority of council enquiries at the first point of contact is nearly complete and in August, the reception and cashier desks will close. The reception area is being
overhauled and modernised with an emphasis on self service, like in high street banks, supermarkets and modern high street outlets. Customer service staff or ‘floorwalkers’ will still be visible in reception to help customers who need it. Cllr Terri Sargent, cabinet member for community, says: “We are living in a 24/7 technology driven society. Our customer needs are changing,
so we must change too so that we can offer residents a more efficient and effective service. “Our website is also being overhauled and will encourage more people to use online services for paying their council tax, business rates and rent for example and to sign up to direct debit. “Although there will be much more of an emphasis on selfservice, these changes will allow us to free up staff and resources
Creating opportunity – one year on Leader of Basildon Council, Cllr Tony Ball used his keynote speech at the council’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) in May to reflect on the work of the authority since he first set out the council’s pledge to create opportunity for local people at last year’s AGM. Since this vision was set out, along with the five service promises that underpin it, Cllr Ball told those present how members and officers have turned the vision into a four year corporate plan that is now the basis for everything the council is doing for local people. Speaking in the council chamber, Cllr Tony Ball said he wants the council to earn the reputation for creating opportunity for local people, but went on to say that to do this it is essential to get the basics right while at the same time deliver value for money. The council leader spoke about resident’s high satisfaction with refuse and recycling and the fact that, despite the financial pressures, weekly collections have been maintained – something that really matters to local people. Turning to value for money, he defended the council’s decision to again freeze council tax in 2013, meaning that hard pressed local people have not had to pay any increase to Basildon Council for over four years. The leader also cited the annual audit letter as high praise for the way the council’s finances are being managed. There is also a challenge for the council which will be shedding up to 20% of its workforce in the coming years. Cllr Ball said: “We are going
to have to learn to work in different ways and the community will have to work with the council through these changes that have to be made.” He then flagged up the £1 million community investment fund which is set to be launched in early July. Cllr Ball, said: “Local community groups will be able to bid for grants from this fund for projects in their local areas that matter to them and will make real improvements to our communities. “This is a hand up not a hand out – it is quite simply the council helping those community groups who are willing to help themselves which goes to the heart of creating opportunity. It is about the council working with local people and not just for them and doing things with them not to them.” Looking forward, Cllr Ball said it has given him particular satisfaction that seven of the borough’s primary schools will be coming out of special measures by September, following work the council had done through the locality board with the County Council. He said: “This is really a great example of what can be done when we work properly with partners and other groups.” Cllr Ball also listed the progress that had been made towards regenerating a number of the borough’s town centres in the last 12 months. The council leader’s message at the AGM was very clear – some good work has been done in the last 12 months but there is a huge amount yet to do.
to concentrate on our residents that need face to face support.” The council is also changing the way that it deals with telephone calls, and from September there will be one main number for all calls to the council – the familiar golden number (01268) 53 33 33. For a period the Housing Repairs 465000 number and Streetcare 294949 will run in parallel but will steadily transfer to the golden number, to make things easier for customers.
billericay’s ‘Pride in your area’ success RESIDENTS in the Brightside area of Billericay produced more than nine tonnes of waste and recycling during the first “Pride in your Area” day of 2013. The event was held in April with council officers collecting waste and recycling from more than 1000 properties. They also carried out graffiti removal, street sweeping and litter picking – alongside a deep clean in areas which needed it. Leader of Basildon Council, Tony Ball, said: “The people of Billericay really got behind this day and took pride in their area. The figures speak for themselves with more than nine tonnes collected. “I’d like to thank those who got involved and remind the rest of the borough that this was just the first of 12 Pride in your Area days. These days allow householders to get rid of large and bulky items they might struggle with, and it allows our street cleansing team to get into some areas and deep clean – over and above the usual high standards of our staff. “The Council is doing all it can to get the basics right and maximise the amount it recycles to provide good value for money for its residents. This helps to save Council taxpayers money and gives us all an area we are proud to live in.” Wickford’s clean up on page 11
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Pitsea regeneration progressing well The major regeneration of Pitsea town centre is progressing well, as both the former swimming pool and Railway Hotel have been demolished to allow the major redevelopment to take place.
The transformation of the area will centre on a 75,000 square foot Morrison’s superstore, a new and improved 100 stall market, refurbished office blocks and new shops, along with improved public areas and
landscaping. The plans will create hundreds of new jobs and safeguard many more. The work is expected to be completed by Winter 2014. For more information, visit www.pitsearegeneration.co.uk
fraudsters beware! - we’re coming to get you BASILDON Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for housing, Cllr Phil Turner, is issuing a warning to those who think they can exploit the system and commit housing fraud - “fraudsters beware – we’re coming to get you!” Cllr Turner’s warning comes as the council has been successful in its bid to Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) for £91,000 in funding to boost its fight against housing fraud. He said: “At Basildon Council we take housing fraud very seriously and will come down hard on those who think they can brazenly reach into the public purse and
play the system. “Our houses and flats are for Basildon residents many of whom have families and anxiously wait for a home of their own. “We will support them in any way we can and in this approach it means finding and prosecuting those that are cheating the system and freeing up properties for a Basildon resident waiting for a property. “I am delighted we have secured this funding which will enable us to continue to prevent this type of fraud in the borough.” Cllr Stuart Sullivan, cabinet member for resources,
Basildon’s Armed Forces Day
said: “By closely checking right to buy applications, the council has prevented £194,000 in discounts being offered to those who were not eligible for the scheme. “With new laws being introduced by the government to make investigations into allegations of housing fraud more effective, we are even more determined to crackdown on housing fraud to ensure council homes go to those who genuinely need them.” If you suspect someone has falsely made an application for council housing, is wrongly applying to buy their council house or is sub-letting their council property, report your suspicions confidentially on 01268 294566.
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The raising of the Armed Forces flag and a town centre parade will be the highlight of this year’s Armed Forces day celebrations in Basildon borough. The event will take place on Saturday 29 June 2013 from approximately 12noon. Led by a band, uniformed cadets from the Navy, Air Force and the Army will march through Basildon
Town Centre. Veterans are also invited to march with their flags as part of the parade. After the formation drill Mayor of Basildon, Cllr Mo Larkin, will inspect the parade, before raising the Armed Forces Day Flag in St Martin’s Square. For more information on the Armed Forces Day event please contact 01268 294561.
Book 5 consecutive week days and get the following Saturday free Book one weekday and get a 2nd weekday free Book to leaflet and receive one hour free Our offers are valid for June hire. Offer ends 30th June 2013. For more information and details of special offers, email basildontowncentre@basildon.gov.uk, call the Town Centre Bookings Team on 01268 294561 or visit www.basildon.gov.uk/towncentre
SUMMER 2013
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Schools poster competition BASILDON secondary schools recently took part in a poster designing competition to raise awareness of robbery, personal safety and bullying. The project, run by Basildon Community Safety Partnership, with external funding from Essex County Council through Safer Essex, received over 70 entries. Of the 70 entries, 45 of them were on the subject of bullying. Cllr Malcolm Buckley, councillor responsible for community safety, said: “Bullying is a concern to many young people and of more concern to them than the risk of being robbed. Although bullying is not classified as a crime, a persistent bully may go on to commit
crime in the form of anti-social behaviour, robbery and assault.” In addition to the poster competition, a website has been set up: www.teensafe.org. uk to aid student research into the three chosen topics, and highlight other websites which they may find helpful. The Teensafe website will continue to be updated to offer advice to young people over the next 12 months and, dependent on its success, will continue beyond that. The winning posters were converted into smart boards containing QR codes which, when scanned by a smart phone, will call up the Teensafe website. These smart boards have been
distributed to all secondary schools in the borough. The prize winners each received a Kindle Fire HD and won a camcorder for their school. Other winners received either an iPod shuffle or an iTunes voucher. ‘Stay Safe’ Wristbands featuring the Teensafe name will be issued to students through schools and community engagement events held by the Community Safety Partnership. The three winning posters have been converted into banners and will be used throughout the borough to raise awareness. For further information on the Project contact Lorna Watson, Crime Prevention Tactical Adviser on Tel: 101 Extn: 380386.
Crucial Crew’s gets safety message across to pupils
Crucial Crew talking to primary school children
re-offending Crack down LOCAL agencies in Basildon are working together to target offenders who cause the most damage to the community. An ‘Integrated Offender Management’ (IOM) programme was introduced in April 2012 to change the way offending is tackled. The programme, led by Essex Probation, aims to improve the links between local agencies in sharing information so that they can help prevent re-offending. The team in Basildon is made up of three police officers and three probation officers. This
team carries out prison visits, home visits and helps offenders to engage with the council, job centre, community drug and alcohol teams and any of the other services within the community. David Smith, IOM link worker at Essex Probation, said: “The team in Basildon has been working together for 14 months and the reports from the Police show the combined work of the Police, Probation and the IOM team has helped to reduce crime across Basildon borough.”
PRIMARY school pupils from across the borough have been getting community safety lessons Jessamy Martin with her winning design from the Crucial Crew during four events in March. personal safety, fire safety, drugs and alcohol, Crucial Crew is an innovative and interactive way of delivering key personal and anti-social behaviour. A workshop safety education messages to Year Six pupils focusing on healthy relationships was held to (10/11-year-olds), giving them the skills and help young people understand and recognise knowledge they need to keep themselves safe the signs of domestic abuse. The project was delivered by Basildon at the crucial time of their transition from Council, Essex Police, Essex Fire Service, primary to secondary school. The children who attended the events, Basildon Women’s Aid and the Health learned about bullying, internet safety, Service.
Together Against Crime 2013 – Young Performers Wanted
YOUNG performers from across the borough are wanted for this year’s Together Against Crime event. Taking place on Thursday 25 July in Basildon town square, the event needs young performers and groups to perform on the community stage. The community stage is about young people having the chance to showcase their talents, and for them to be seen as positive role models for other young people in the community. Together Against Crime is an annual event organised to give local people a chance to talk to professional organisations about their concerns and seek advice on how to protect themselves and their property. Anyone aged 19 or below, and who lives in the borough, can apply to perform on the community stage by contacting Shauni Dance at shauni.dance@ basildon.gov.uk, or by calling 01268 294346.
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DOOR TO DOOR RECYCLING HELP Basildon Council recycling staff will soon be coming to your doorstep – to ensure you have everything you need to make the most of your recycling services. The team will be visiting areas of new-build housing in the borough, as this is where people may have moved to the area and might not be used to Basildon Council’s recycling services.
Cllr John Dornan, cabinet member for environment, said: “You can recycle a lot more in Basildon than you can in other areas, such as bottle tops, jam jar lids and long-life cartons. “With this in mind, we want to make sure that everyone, whether they’ve just moved into the borough, or been living here for their whole lives, have the knowledge and the containers to recycle as much as possible.”
Essex County Council election results The results of the 2013 Essex County Council election held on 2 May 2013 saw the Conservative, Labour and UK Independence parties winning three seats each across the five county council divisions within the Basildon borough. UKIP also won its first seat on Basildon Borough Council in the Wickford Castledon by-election. The Essex County Council members elected in the divisions across the Basildon borough are as follows: • • • • • • • • •
William Archibald (Labour) Mark Ellis (UKIP) Keith Bobbin (Labour) Melissa McGeorge (Labour) Kerry Smith (UKIP) Kay Twitchen (Conservative) Anthony Hedley (Conservative) Malcolm Buckley (Conservative) Nigel De Lecq Le Gresley (UKIP)
Laindon Park & Fryerns Laindon Park & Fryerns Pitsea Pitsea Westley Heights Billericay & Burstead Billericay & Burstead Wickford Crouch Wickford Crouch
More detailed information on the election results in the borough are available at www.basildon. gov.uk/elections Results for the wider Essex County Council can be found at www.essex.gov.uk
Street scene enforcement officer with resident Tina Neeve
Consultation on licensing policy Basildon Council is looking for residents’ views on proposed changes to the licensing policy applied to businesses selling alcohol, providing late night refreshments and/or regulated entertainment. As the licensing authority, Basildon Council is required to prepare and publish a policy, or a statement of the principles, it will apply when considering and issuing licenses to such businesses. This policy aims to prevent crime, disorder and public nuisance while protecting of children from harm and
ensuring public safety. The draft licensing policy statement can be downloaded at www.basildon.gov.uk/evhconsult. To receive a hard copy, or request it in an alternative format, e.g. large print, call 01268 294424 or e-mail licensing@basildon.gov.uk. Any comments on this policy must be received by Wednesday 31 July 2013. You can respond by letter to: Licensing Section, Environmental Health Services, The Basildon Centre, St Martin’s Square, Basildon, Essex, SS14 1DL. Alternatively email: licensing@basildon.gov. uk
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For better mental health
MINDFUL COUNSELLING is an established Private Service set up by Basildon Mind and adheres to the British Association for Counselling and Psychotheraphy Codes of Ethics and Practice. All Counsellors are fully qualified to a minimum of Diploma Level.
Come and join us and get a warm welcome Every Sunday 10am and 6.30pm Bible Study Tuesday 7.30pm Midweek Fellowship Wednesday 1.45pm
Counselling appointments can be offered outside of normal office hours. For further confidential information please telephone: Patricia Holdsworth B.Sc. Hons., Counselling Manager, on 01268 289344.
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SUMMER 2013
COUNCILLOR SURGERIES Billericay East - David Dadds 01277 829808, Stuart Sullivan 01268 560477. Surgery as Billericay West below. Billericay West - Anthony Hedley 01277 626198, Phil Turner 01277 633918, Daniel Lawrence 01277 657480. Last Saturday of the month (except December) 10.30am to noon at The Library, Billericay High Street. Burstead - Kevin Blake 01268 470597, Paul Arnold 07581 285525, Richard Moore 01277 627266. For details see the “In Touch” leaflet delivered to all households in Burstead Ward or contact by phone. 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 - Alan Davies 01268 525406, Bill Archibald 01268 280593 & 07732 710088, Adele Brown -07791 109436. Laindon Park - John Dornan 01375 851639 & 07834 856231, Jilly Hyde 01268 414126, John Scarola 07984 943349. Langdon Hills - Sandra and Stephen Hillier 01268 490201. Lee Chapel North - Lynda Gordon 079673 33536, Nigel Smith 01268 545483, Alan Bennett 01277 626236. Nethermayne - 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 Comm. Centre, except August. All 10am to 11am. Andrew Gordon - 07817 865202, last Saturday of month at the Basildon Centre 2pm to 4pm. Pitsea North West - Ron Livesey 01268 470028. Roving surgery within the ward on the first Saturday of month. Keith Bobbin 01268 556158 or 07886 3573905, Gavin Callaghan 07908 698743 by appointment at The Place,Pitsea Leisure Centre, Northlands Pavement on second Saturday of month plus roving surgeries throughout ward. Pitsea South East - David Abrahall 01268 440082, Mo Larkin 01268 413936. Surgeries on second Monday of the month (except Bank Holidays), 6.30pm to 7.30pm, outside Pitsea Leisure Centre. NB. Private interview room available by appointment. Aidan McGurran 07710 613928 by appointment on second Saturday of month at The Place, Pitsea Leisure Centre plus roving surgeries. St Martin’s - Phil and Pat Rackley 01268 410700. Surgeries on first Monday and third Tuesday of month (except August), 2pm to 3pm at Basildon Community Resource Centre, 1 The Gore, Basildon. Vange - Daniel Munyambu - 075515 26956. Byron Taylor - 01268 419153. Wickford Castledon - Nigel Le Gresley 07831897731. Surgery on first Saturday of month (except Sept.), 10am to noon at Wickford Community Centre, Market Road, Wickford. Malcolm Buckley 01268 472586. Wickford North - Tony Ball 01268 454564, Carole Morris 01268 457488, Michael Mowe 01268 463564. Wickford Park - Don Morris 01268 457488. First Saturday of month from 9.30am to 11.30am at Noak Bridge, Village Hall, Coppice Lane, Noak Bridge and third Saturday of month, 10 - noon at Wickford Library. Christopher Jackman - 01268 571843.
free local business support A series of free business support events are taking place over 2013 as Basildon Council continues to deliver on its promise to support the local economy. These events are open to all Basildon based companies and businesses both large and small. The 2013 programme follows work between the council’s economic development team and the Basildon Basildon Business Group (BBG) to establish what kind of support local businesses could benefit from most in these challenging times. Perhaps you want to sharpen your skills in a particular business area, or maybe you're looking for new opportunities to connect with other businesses in the borough? Whatever you're looking for, chances are we've got it covered in this range of events specifically designed with local businesses in mind. Along with the major Business Enterprise Event being held on Thursday 27 June (see below), the council is also offering the following events (see table).
Basildon Business Support Events Green Business Market Place Monday 15 July
Tuesday 8 October
Tuesday 8 October
Tuesday 23 October
Registration open for second Annual Business Enterprise Event BUDDING entrepreneurs and existing businesses can take advantage of the second annual Business Enterprise Event being held in June. The event at the Basildon Holiday Inn is on Thursday 27 June between 2pm and 5pm and is free of charge for all pre-registered visitors. Leader of Basildon Council, Tony Ball, said: “We want to follow up last year’s successful event by offering this free opportunity to more local businesses and entrepreneurs. “This is a chance for existing businesses and prospective ones to network, get expert advice and share ideas.” The event will provide invaluable and wideranging sources of information, help and guidance for all businesses. A ‘business supermarket’ will provide an extensive range of exhibitors offering business support, advice and training opportunities along with excellent prospects for networking. Register online to secure your place at www. basildon.gov.uk/enterprise2013 or visit http:// basildoncouncilbusinessevents.eventbrite.co.uk/
Venue and times to be confirmed
Networking event. Using environmental awareness to reduce costs and win customers Business Workshop with Pro-actions - 9am till 12.30pm How to control the cash in your business and increase profitability Business Workshop with Pro-actions - 1pm till 4.30pm How to control the cash in your business and increase profitability
Wat Tyler Centre, Wat Tyler Country Park - 9am-12.30pm
Wat Tyler Centre, Wat Tyler Country Park - 1pm-4.30pm
Basildon Business Breakfast with Palmers Solicitors and Pursuit Recruitment - 7.45am till 9.45am
Stock Brook Country Club, Billericay - 7.45am-9.45am
A skills and employment law update
Em
W plo or ya ks bi ho lit p y Do you need help finding a job? If the answer is yes, then this FREE 2 day Employability Workshop is for you!
Day 1: Tuesday 25th June 10am - 3pm Towngate Theatre – Room D
Day 2: Wednesday 26th June
For more info
10am - 3pm Basildon Centre – Room 2
see p.13
For Basildon Borough residents age 19+ who are unemployed and in receipt of active benefits. Spaces are limited. To book your place call Rebecca Todd on 01702 220623 / 220409, or email your name and phone number to business@southessex.ac.uk using the subject heading: “Employability Workshop Basildon Borough Council”.
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SUMMER 2013
Allowances for Councillors - 2012/2013
The Council’s Scheme for Members’ Allowances paid to elected Councillors must be established within the regulatory framework set by the Government. A copy of the Members Allowances Scheme forms part of the Council’s Constitution which is published on the Council’s website at www.basildon.gov.uk
The approved Council budget for the Members’ Allowances Scheme for the 2012/2013 financial year is £432,000.
The Council is required to maintain records detailing all payments made to each individual Councillor. These records are open to inspection by any local government elector within the Basildon Borough by prior arrangement with the Head of Resources at the Basildon Centre, St Martins Square, Basildon, SS14 1DL and are also available on the Council’s website which is updated on a monthly basis.
The following list details payments to individual Councillors during the period 1 April 2012 to 31 March 2013. The list includes Councillors who did not serve for the entire period due to Local Elections not coinciding with the Council’s financial year. It also includes payments made to 7 non-elected members of the Council’s Standards Committee. Key to Columns A = Basic Allowance B = Special Responsibility Allowance C= Travel , Subsistence and Carers Allowance D = I.T. Allowance Figures for 2012/2013
one-stop help for families (L-R) Cllr Sargent and Community Services manager Pippa Brent-Isherwood
A new project to help families access more services more easily has been launched by Basildon Council. The Highcliffe First Contact is a simple checklist which asks residents in the Highcliffe area of Wickford a number of questions by filling out a single form. If they answer “Yes”, to any of these questions they will get a priority referral to a service provider. This means residents only have to tell the council and its partners once about the help they need. Through this pilot project, which started in March, residents can get access to Highcliffe Children’s Centre, Citizen’s Advice Bureau (CAB), Housing Choice and revenues and benefits and others services at Basildon Council, Essex Fire and Rescue Service, Essex Police and more. Participation of families is entirely
voluntary and all families will have the right to refuse to take part in the project. Cllr Terri Sargent, cabinet member for community services, said: “Through this prototype families will receive the help they need at a much earlier stage. “This pilot project will enable these families to gain access to a range of services by filling in one simple form. “The council is committed to working with its partners to ensure we can all provide quality services to those who need them.” Highcliffe First Contact is part of the Basildon Family Project, which looks at how public organisations can help the lives of families who face challenging circumstances. For more information call Grant Taylor 07715 752648 or email grant. taylor@basildon.gov.uk.
Waste inspections visit businesses BASILDON Council is working with businesses across the borough over the next three months to ensure they are meeting their requirements under the Environmental Protection Act. Council officers will be visiting business premises to provide assistance and guidance to help ensure they are meeting their responsibilities under the Environmental Protection Act (1990) to adequately store waste in a way that does not impact local services, and to provide evidence of where it is
to be stored. Cllr John Dornan, cabinet member for environment, said: “We will be visiting all businesses across the borough over the next three months making sure businesses are complying. A lot of businesses think waste collections are included within their business rates when they are not. “Businesses also have the responsibility of proving where their waste is going and officers will be advising how to make sure their paperwork is in order.”
D SJ AR W P AS A A JA K K A S MR G DJ AR JD A L AM S SE J CR D M D R L A RA C DW MO D PA PW TL J NJ SB B F P G LM
Councillor Abrahall Allen Archer Archibald Arnold Baggott Ball Bennett Blake Blake Bobbin Brown Buckley Buckley Callaghan Dadds Davies Dornan Gordon Gordon Hedley Hillier Hillier Hyde Jackman Kirkman Larkin Lawrence Livesey Mackenzie McGurran Moore Morris Morris Mowe Munyambu Rackley Rackley Sargent Scarola Smith Sullivan Taylor Tomlin Turner Williams Williams
A £ 5,694.00 5,694.00 5,694.00 5,694.00 5,694.00 581.65 5,694.00 5,694.00 581.65 5,694.00 5,694.00 5,127.66 5,219.50 5,694.00 5,127.66 5,694.00 5,694.00 5,694.00 5,694.00 5,694.00 5,694.00 5,694.00 5,694.00 5,694.00 5,694.00 581.65 5,694.00 5,127.66 5,694.00 581.65 5,127.66 5,694.00 5,694.00 5,694.00 5,694.00 5,694.00 5,694.00 5,694.00 5,694.00 5,127.66 5,694.00 5,694.00 5,127.66 581.65 5,694.00 5,694.00 5,694.00
Total
Councillors
238,183.71
B £ 8,544.00
C £
D £
450.00 450.00 45.97 450.00 450.00 45.97 450.00 450.00 405.24 412.50 450.00 405.24 450.00 450.00 450.00 450.00 450.00 450.00 450.00 450.00 450.00 450.00 45.97 450.00 405.24 450.00 45.97 405.24 450.00 450.00 450.00 450.00 450.00 450.00 450.00 450.00 405.24 450.00 450.00 405.24 45.97 450.00 450.00 450.00
TOTAL £ 14,688.00 6,144.00 7,402.20 6,144.00 7,362.15 1,645.35 22,956.90 6,144.00 773.18 16,107.00 6,267.20 5,532.90 9,068.74 16,107.00 5,532.90 9,795.87 6,144.00 15,280.89 6,144.00 6,764.13 13,447.74 14,688.00 10,002.72 8,991.00 7,569.00 627.62 14,688.00 5,623.00 6,162.50 918.44 5,532.90 16,284.10 10,416.00 10,416.00 7,362.15 6,144.00 6,177.78 6,408.20 15,280.89 5,560.90 8,577.73 16,107.00 5,532.90 1,645.35 17,475.14 7,668.60 6,144.00
18,373.79
411,456.07
450.00 450.00
1,708.20 1,218.15 1,017.73 15,660.00
1,152.90
145.56 9,963.00 123.20 3,436.74 9,963.00 3,651.87 9,136.89 620.13 7,303.74 8,544.00 3,858.72 2,847.00 1,425.00 8,544.00 90.10 18.50 290.82 9,963.00 4,272.00 4,272.00 1,218.15
216.08 9,136.89
177.10
33.78 48.12 28.00
2,433.73 9,963.00 1,017.73 11,181.14 1,425.00
150.00 99.60
152,977.27
1,921.30
Standards Committee - Independent Members P J M J B A B Rev E JJ J Total Grand Total
Beasley Buchanan Dear Devlin Foster Hollins Horne McCafferty Petherick Quinlan
855.00 285.00 1,140.00 855.00 855.00 285.00 1,140.00 426.75 1,140.00 1,140.00
855.00 285.00 1,140.00 855.00 855.00 285.00 1,140.00 426.75 1,140.00 1,140.00
0.00
8,121.75
0.00
0.00
8,121.75
238,183.71
161,099.02
1,921.30
18,373.79
419,577.82
SUMMER 2013
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Ready, Steady, Cook-off! Jade Castle, a student from De la Salle School, is this year’s winner of the Fairtrade Fortnight Secondary Schools
Cook Off. Jade wowed the judges with her Creamy Coconut Curry with Rice and Choux Buns with Chocolate Sauce dessert. Runner up Josephine Peterson from Mayflower and third place went to Georgina Coleman from De la Salle School. The cook off, organised by Basildon Borough Fairtrade Group and supported by Basildon Council saw students preparing dishes using at least two Fairtrade products. Judging was led by Darren (L-R) Jade Castle and Georgina Coleman during the cook off Bennett of the Magic
Mushroom Restaurant at Barleylands. He was assisted by Cllr Tony Ball, leader of Basildon Council, and Linda Williams, acting Chair of Basildon Borough Fairtrade Group. The cook off was held as part of Fairtrade Fortnight (Monday 25 February to Sunday 10 March) which aims to promote Fairtrade and the positive difference it makes to the lives of people in the developing world. Leader Tony Ball said: “It was very hard to choose a winner. The students were all very impressive, being extremely focused and competent. “By encouraging residents to use Fairtrade products in our everyday cooking, we are helping food producers in developing countries get a fair deal.”
A Fairtrade poetry competition was also held. Out of the 106 entries, Alex Dyos from St Peter’s Primary School was one of the first prize winners.
£50K for empty homes Recycling Reminders Since February this year six owners have signed up to the council’s Empty Homes scheme. Do you own one or more empty properties in the borough that is in need of repair? Basildon Council can offer you up to £50,000 per empty home to pay for refurbishment work in return for a five year extendable lease.
Grants can be used for renewing or repairing a hot water system, rewiring, kitchen and bathroom refitting, internal repairs, decoration, repairing or renewing windows and doors and damp proofing works. If you are interested contact Louise Humby , Policy and Development Officer on 01268 294035 or email louise.humby@basildon.gov.uk
Heart of Pitsea Breakfast Pitsea businesses have been talking about how £1million in funding should be spent in the area. The event held as part of the “Heart of Pitsea” initiative was held in March to put forward ideas on how £1million of Big Lottery funding should be spent in the Pitsea area situated within the boundary of Ashlyns, Rectory Road, Pitsea Road and High Road, Pitsea, to make the area a better place for residents. Basildon Council’s cabinet member for
community services, Cllr Terri Sargent, said: “This event was a huge success with 20 per cent of local businesses and organisations attending. “Discussions were had about how local businesses in the area can support the local community and what they think the local priorities are and how they can benefit and be involved in the project.” Chris Evans, chief officer at Billericay and Wickford Council of Voluntary Services, said: “This business breakfast helped to highlight how local businesses are an important part of the community and should have a voice. “I’d like to thank the local residents who organised the business breakfast and local business T Cribb & Sons and Kip McGrath Tuition for supporting it. “We will meet again and Local organisations at the Heart of Pitsea breakfast meeting discuss ways forward.”
BASILDON Council is reminding residents to sign up to its text message reminder service as an easy way to find out about changes to collection dates. This service sends residents a text message the day before their fortnightly glass recycling collection so they need never miss their recycling collection day. Text messages consist of a reminder the
day before the glass recycling collection, and occasional service updates. Subscribers will be the first to find out about new and exciting recycling news, including future competitions and promotions. To sign up, text the word ‘Pink’ and your postcode to 82727. All texts received are free of charge, although the initial text is charged at your standard network rate.
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SUMMER 2013
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For tickets and information, call the Box Office on 01268 465465 or visit www.towngatetheatre.co.uk
Superstars of soul set for Basildon TWO of the worlds biggest names in soul music are set to take Basildon by storm with their incredible live show. Ben E King and Jimmy James are known throughout the world with careers spanning 50 years. This latest tour sees the pair join forces along with Jimmy’s band ‘The Vagabonds where they will be performing the songs that have provided the soundtracks to so many people’s lives.
Get ready for hits ranging from ‘Stand by me’, ‘There goes my baby’, ‘Save the last dance’, Spanish Harlem, ‘ Amor’, ‘Now is the time’ and many many more. This show is a must see for all true soul fans! Ben E King and Jimmy James Sunday 22 September 7.30pm £20
An evening with Don’t miss Sid’s Show Johnny Herbert With an incredible career, Johnny Herbert helped lay the foundation for a golden generation of British racing drivers. Racing alongside his driving partner Michael Schumacher for Benetton he won his first ever Grand Prix in front of a home crowd at the British Grand Prix, Silverstone. He went on to enjoy incredible success in the sport achieving Grand Prix victories at Monza and the Nurburgring. He is also well remembered for his success at the Le Mans 24 hour race, a title that he secured for the first time in 1991 with Mazda. This brand new presentation is an absolute must for all ‘Petrol Heads’ as the current Sky TV’s F1 presenter takes to the stage in this ‘evening with’ show. The evening will feature not only Johnny, but a full audiovisual presentation, an audience ‘question & answer’ section and also the chance, if you’re really lucky, to sit in an actual racing car and have your picture taken with the man himself! An evening with Johnny Herbert Thursday 12 September 7.30pm £21
Cbeebies star Sid will be making his debut at the Towngate Theatre this Summer with his all new live show. Join Sid live on stage in a fantastic fun-filled adventure that’ll knock your socks off! Sid is setting out on a heroic quest to find out where in the world his favourite socks and shoes have got to. Share in the adventure at the bottom of the sea, deep in the jungle or floating in outer space meeting some funny characters and discovering plenty of surprises along the way. In an interactive experience crammed with games, songs, poems and magic, Sid’s Show will leave you with a smile on your face and a spring in your step. Perfect for families with children aged three to seven. Sids Show Sun 25 August 11am / 2pm £11
Coming up at the Towngate Theatre... 17 July to 20 July The Full Monty - £10 to £17
Saturday 21 September Magic - £17
Sunday 25 August Sid’s Show - £11
Sunday 22 September Ben E King and Jimmy James - £20
Tuesday 3 September You Must Remember This - £13 / £12
Thursday 12 September Rob Kingsley A Vision of Elvis - £21
Thursday 12 September An Evening with Johnny Herbert - £21
Friday 25 October Charlie Landsborough - £22
Friday 20 September Hats off to Led Zeppelin - £15
Friday 15 November Russian State Ballet - £30.50 / £28.50
SUMMER 2013
Laindon Activity Centre celebrates 25 years
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wickford’s pride
Laindon Activity Centre members have been celebrating the day centre’s 25th anniversary in style with a party in April. Over 90 members turned up for the event which included music from ‘DJ’ Ray Spiller. The celebrations continue later this year with a cabaret on Tuesday 26 November. For more information on membership and activities at the centre please call 01268 465 860.
Billericay East by-election in June A BY-ELECTION will be held on Thursday 27 June 2013 to fill the vacancy for a borough councillor in the Billericay East Ward following the death of Cllr Tony Archer. For more information please contact Basildon Council’s Electoral Services Section on (01268) 294669 or by email at elections@ basildon.gov.uk
Free Essex Pride event The annual Essex Pride event will be held Saturday 22 June and Sunday 23 June 2013, at Central Park in Chelmsford. This free celebration of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender (LGBT) life in Essex and beyond will include live entertainment, food and drink, fun activities for all ages and much more. Not just a huge party, the weekend event aims to inspire communities to embrace equality and celebrate diversity. For more information visit http://essexpride.org/
Leader Cllr Tony Ball and Wickford Cllr Michael Mowe at the Pride in Your Area day
Leader of the council, Tony Ball donned his hi-vis jacket and litterpicker to help out with the latest pride in your area day in Wickford. This is the fourth year in which the council
Photo provided courtesy of the Basildon Echo
has run these dedicated area clean-ups, which give residents a chance to clear out large and bulky items free of charge. Council staff carried out deep cleaning, litter
picks, graffiti removal, swept gutters and deep cleaned alleyways in May. By the end of this year, 48,000 housesholds will have benefitted from this project.
Volunteers needed for Wickford Family Project Fancy trying your hand at running or helping out at a local youth club, community café or job club? The Basildon Family Project is looking for volunteers for locally run community projects in the Highcliffe and Beauchamps area of Wickford. The project wants to hear from residents interested in helping to run or volunteer for local projects, or those with ideas for community projects that they are also willing to volunteer their time to making a success. Basildon Council’s cabinet member for community services, Cllr Terri Sargent, said: “The Basildon Family Project was launched last month by the council and, after extensive consultation in the area, now needs local volunteers who are passionate about taking up projects that make a positive difference in the community. “We need your thoughts, ideas, energy and passion so if you would like to volunteer from just a few hours a month towards making the area a better place to live, this project can even offer training to support you in doing this, if required.” For more information call Grant Taylor 07715 752648 or email grant.taylor@basildon.gov.uk.
WWW.BASILDON.GOV.UK
AD
Do you work in the food industry? Do you run your own food business? Basildon Council can offer you the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health’s Level 2 qualification – Food Safety in Catering. The courses are run in the evenings by Environmental Health staff with extensive knowledge of food hygiene and how the law affects food businesses. The following course dates are on offer for 2013:
3rd July & 10th July 4th September & 11th September 5th November & 12th November The cost is £65 per person. For more information, tel 01268 294280 or email ehs@basildon.gov.uk
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SUMMER 2013
Demolition underway for next phase of Craylands development Demolition works have started on the next phase of redevelopment at the Craylands estate in partnership with Swan Housing Association and the Homes and Communities Agency. Work by Swan Housing Association to demolish the first housing blocks at 56-64 Norwich Walk as part of phase 1c to 1f is well underway. Cllr Turner, deputy leader of the council, says: “All of the partners are delighted that this work has begun and is going well.
sporting village - two years on
Cllr Phil Turner at the demolition site
“This is a vital regeneration scheme for Craylands and the Borough as a whole and residents are rightly keen to see action and we hope this demolition shows exactly that. “When this phase is completed over 200 new modern homes will have been built, along with new shops and a community hall, along with a much needed boost for the local community.” Much of the construction work is estimated to complete in 2015.
The Basildon Sporting Village recently celebrated two years since it was officially opened on 17 May 2011 by His Royal Highness, The Duke of Gloucester. Since then, the best public sports facility in Essex has seen over two million visitors, played host to Jessica Ennis, Shelly Woods and Louis Smith and been named as one of the top 50 places to swim in the country. The centre has also helped with the prolific rise of Team GB gymnast Max Whitlock who won two bronze medals at London 2012, along with a number of other up and coming athletes from the South Essex Gymnastics Club, who are based at the Sporting Village. Cllr Kevin Blake, cabinet member for leisure and arts, says: “The Sporting Village has proved more successful than we ever envisaged. It is a fantastic facility for local people, and so well used by young and old, beginners to experts, and a variety of different clubs.”
Young councillors support their peers SEXUAL health, drugs and alcohol and bullying were just some of the subjects up for discussion at a recent Youth Council Cultural Conference held in Basildon. Organised by Basildon Youth Council, the conference looked at issues and concerns raised by secondary school pupils in the borough. The conference also showcased the creative talent of Basildon’s young people with schools perform pieces of art to reflect the conferences themes such as crime, safety and peer pressure. Attendees also got to vote on what priorities Basildon Youth Council should be tackling over the next 12 months.
Cllr Terri Sargent, cabinet member for community services and chair of the Basildon Youth Strategy Group, said: “The Basildon Youth Council consulted upon, planned, organised and presented the event. “It’s important young people have a voice and an outlet to express their opinions as they will shape the future of the borough.” An art competition focussing on what local young people consider to be a priority was also held. The winning entry came from Bethany Freeman from Billericay School. Anyone interested in joining the Basildon Youth Council can contact Michelle Fairchild at michelle.fairchild@basildon. gov.uk or telephone 01268 294850.
Cllr Terri Sargent with members of the Basildon Youth Council
Being a volunteer
Neil Summer - CAB volunteer
By Neil Summer - CAB volunteer Arriving at 9am on a midweek morning and the queue is often already there, half an hour before opening time and in all weathers. At the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB), demand has never been higher and, with the economy still sluggish and austerity continuing to bite, we expect it to increase. As volunteers we provide free, confidential, impartial and independent information and advice. Typically, people come to us with problems concerning their debts, benefits, employment, relationships, housing, consumer issues and pretty much anything else. Ninety per cent of CAB workers are volunteers, like me. As volunteers we perform many roles including receptionist, administrator, but most of us are assessors or advisors. They can offer confidential advice, help and information and many local solicitors will give our clients a brief free appointment. As a charity we rely enormously on volunteers. These may be retirees, students, people between jobs or anyone
of any age who is willing to work with no reward, other than the satisfaction of making a difference in people’s lives. This job isn’t easy but it is immensely rewarding. When someone arrives in despair and leaves with hope then I’ve done my job for that client. We cannot always make the problems go away but we can help our clients see a way through. And perhaps give them help with a phone call, a wellworded letter or help with making a household budget sheet. As well as giving back to the community, a volunteer is building up their own knowledge and adding diverse and interesting work to their CV. Because we have different roles, a new volunteer can start in different ways. We just ask that they commit to at least six hours per week and to an ongoing training programme. Interested? You can request a volunteer application form by ringing 01268 911028 or emailing info@bascab.org.uk, For our telephone advice service call 0844 477 0808. The CAB has offices in Basildon, Wickford and Billericay. For details on opening times visit www. bascab.org.uk/index.htm
SUMMER 2013
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Free Fridays at The Place Residents looking to celebrate this summer in style can now get free hall hire at The Place, Pitsea for a limited time only. Book the Main Hall or the Function Room for a Friday event in July, August or September and, once your bar takings exceed £1000, your £150 deposit will be reimbursed. Basildon Council’s cabinet member for community services, Cllr Terri Sargent, said: As part of the council’s promise to provide value
Workshop for Jobseekers
Free Friday night hall hire at The Place
JOBSEEKERS aged 19 or above from across the borough can take advantage of a free two-day employability workshop in June. Day 1 of the workshop will be held on Tuesday 25 June at the Towngate Theatre (Room D) while day 2 will be held on Wednesday 26 June 2013 at the Basildon Centre (Room 2) from 10am to 3pm on both days. Organised by Basildon Council’s Economic Development Team, in partnership with Basildon Action on Learning and South Essex College, the course will cover essential skills needed in the workplace such as team work, customer awareness and work principles. It will also help with job search skills; interview and presentation techniques; CV preparation;
for money, The Place offers various services to help residents keep fit and entertain their children, while also providing low cost hall hire and meeting room facilities for local people. “With a licensed bar area, catering and rooms that can hold up to 250 people, The Place is the idea location for you to have a celebration.” Terms and conditions apply and this offer is subject to availability. For more information contact The Place on 01268 465420. and support to find and apply for suitable vacancies. To be eligible for the workshop, participants must be in receipt of active benefit. Cllr Tony Ball, Leader of Basildon Council, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for people who are unemployed but looking to improve their future career prospects. “I would strongly urge those who are 19 or over to take advantage of this free workshop.” On successful completion, participants will gain units towards a recognised qualification in Employability Skills. They will also be given the opportunity to complete the full qualification from Monday 1 July through Wednesday 10 July from 10am to 3pm at South Essex College, Basildon Campus. Spaces are limited, so register early. To book your place call Rebecca Todd on 01702 220623/220409, or email your name and phone number to business@southessex.ac.uk using the subject heading: Employability Workshop Basildon Council.
We’re changing the way we do business. Over the coming months you will see a number of changes made to the way the council does business so we can offer you a more efficient and effective service, freeing up staff to assist those who need us most or have more detailed enquiries. We are living in a 24/7 technology driven society. Our customers needs are changing, so we must change too. • Additional self service machines will be installed in the Basildon Centre and the current cashiers desk will close in August. The reception area will also be overhauled and modernised with an emphasis on self service like in high street banks • The creation of a new customer services centre will deal with the majority of council enquiries and questions about services at the first point of contact • Our website will be overhauled drawing you to online services. Did you know that you can save time and us money by paying online or via direct debit? For more information visit www.basildon.gov.uk
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SUMMER 2013
food safety week Freebie Borough residents can get their hands on free fridge thermometers and a food safety checklist from Basildon Council, as part of National Food Safety Week (10 to 16 June). The thermometers can help residents ensure they are storing food in their refrigerator at the correct temperature. Residents also encouraged to carry out a “Kitchen Check” during the week to find out how their kitchen hygiene compares against the good practice expected
from the food industry. The self check will be available on-line at www.food.gov.uk. Food poisoning cases caused as a result of home prepared food is still high, so an understanding of good hygiene helps make sure your food is safe. The free fridge thermometers and a checklist are available on a first come-first serve basis between Monday 10 and Friday 14 June 2013 from the Basildon Centre reception, St Martin’s Square.
Good Hygiene Tips for Food Preparation Cleaning
Wash and dry your hands thoroughly before and after preparing foods
Cross contamination
Store raw foods at the bottom of the fridge below cooked/ready to eat
Wash hands, utensils and surfaces after handling any raw foods
Use separate chopping boards and utensils for raw foods
Cooking
Pre-heat your oven properly - follow recipe/label instructions on cooking times and temperatures
Chilling
Ensure food is piping hot before servingcheck meat is cooked right through, not pink in the middle, and juices run clear
Cool food quickly (60 to 90 minutes at most from oven to fridge)
Community Transport ARMED FORCES SUMMIT needs more volunteers Past and present members of the armed forces have been looking at how the borough can provide better support for both them and the Basildon communities in which they live. The Armed Forces Summit held in March follows on from the Armed Forces Community Covenant signed last November. This covenant promising support for both the armed forces and civilian communities as they work together to create more opportunities and meet the needs of service personnel and the wider local community. Leader of Basildon Council, Cllr Tony Ball, said: “Last year I met with representatives of Basildon’s Armed Forces to agree on how the Armed Forces Community Grant Scheme could be used to support both the Armed Forces and the communities in which they live. “Since then a Civil/Military Partnership
Basildon CT volunteer with resident
Basildon Community Transport (Basildon CT) is looking for volunteer car and minibus drivers to help elderly and disabled people live more independent lives. Basildon CT, formerly known as the Basildon District Volunteer Carers, needs more volunteers who are able to drive and want to do something to help their community. Minibus driver training is provided and being a volunteer allows local people to meet other volunteers and people in the community while making a rewarding contribution by helping others. A not-for-profit organisation and a registered charity working in partnership with Basildon Council and Essex County Council, Basildon CT provides essential transport for Basildon residents to give them a better quality of
life by helping them get out and about. Basildon Council’s cabinet member for community services, Cllr Terri Sargent, said: “Basildon CT relies heavily on valued volunteers to help make a difference to the quality of life for Basildon residents. “Members use it for everyday transport requirements such as shopping, going to the doctors and dentist, visiting family and friends, education, church and other social trips, helping Basildon residents maintain their independence. “So if you are able to volunteer by driving your own car, and one of the minibuses provided by the charity, please get in touch.” For more information, or for volunteering opportunities, call 01268 294013 or visit them at the George Hurd Centre, Audley Way, Basildon.
Board has been established including representatives from the Armed Forces, Basildon Renaissance Partnership and residents. “The aim of this group is to develop an understanding of the issues they face and how these could be tackled. “ During the summit ideas on education, employment, health and well-being, housing, leisure and culture were discussed, and the Civil/Military Partnership Board will now look at how they can be implemented across the borough in the form of an action plan. We are looking to involve serving members and their families who live in the borough to contribute to this process. So if you would like to help shape future project proposals please do not hesitate to contact us. For more information on how to get involved in this project call 01268 294115 or email ppr@basildon.gov.uk.
Pupils discuss ASB and hate crime Some of the borough’s primary schools students have been learning about littering, anti-social behaviour (ASB) and being a responsible dog owner, as part of Basildon Council’s Junior Warden Scheme. Year four, five and six pupils from Laindon Park Junior School were visited by the council’s community warden in March, receiving a certificate of participation at the end of the five week scheme. These school visits also allows children to report to the warden any antisocial behaviour they see or experience. Cllr Malcolm Buckley, councillor responsible for community safety, said: “Educating our young people from an early age on what is and is not acceptable behaviour is key to ensuring
that Basildon borough becomes a safer place for all to live in. “Taking the message to children in their schools and local clubs can help reinforce this message.” Meanwhile Craylands Activity Zone (CAZ) has been working on a six week project to increase residents understanding of hate crime and hate related incidents. Together with Essex Media Workshop a DVD project was completed giving children from the CAZ club the chance to ask questions about Basildon Council and Essex Police’s commitment to tackling hate crime. The project involved forty two children who produced, edited, filmed and starred in the DVD production.
SUMMER 2013
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SUMMER 2013
new facilities open at gloucester park Two brand new facilities for the local community have opened in Gloucester Park, thanks to a £1.6m of investment as part of the Basildon town centre regeneration. A new bowls facility was opened in May by The Mayor of Basildon, Mo Larkin. The new Bowls Club clubhouse and greens, at Basildon Sporting Village have been built by Barratt Homes, the housebuilder behind the Acacia Park development on the edge of Gloucester Park. The Mayor was invited to ’bowl the first wood’ to mark the occasion in front of a select gathering of councillors and senior council staff, representatives from Barratt Homes and members of the Gloucester Park Murrayfield Bowls Club. Impressed with the new building Mo Larkin, Mayor of Basildon, said: “The new bowls club is a great addition to the numerous sports offered at this end of the park and cements the Sporting Village’s position as a quality regional facility.” A new play area at the southern end of the park has also opened. The £1.6m of investment is also allowing for major improvements to be made to the pathways, lighting, along with the creation of a new lake and piazza.
(Top to Bottom) Bowls Club members with Mayor Mo Larkin and Barratt Eastern Counties MD David Eardley at the Bowls Club opening, and at new Gloucester Park play area with St Ann Junior school pupils
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Basildon Borough 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