This issue… Your guide to Winter days out in our area
The magazine for the people of Bath and North East Somerset | Winter 2015
Win £50
in our phot competitio o n on page 6
It’s
Christmas! The festive season is upon us. Are you prepared for winter?
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Plus... All the latest news including neighbourly advice and the Council’s gritting fleet!
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Welcome
Winter 2015
If you have problems reading this magazine, please contact Bath & North East Somerset Council for a braille or larger version on 01225 477495
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W
elcome to the Winter 2015 issue of Connect magazine. This will be the last edition of the year – and what a busy year it’s been! Inside you can find out more about some of the key work we’ve been doing and how we’re planning ahead for 2016 onwards. On page 16, we outline our plan to save around £38m over the next four years – through developing new ways to deliver services and generate more income – while still protecting vital frontline services. We’re also holding a series of public information sessions across Bath and North East Somerset through the Connecting Communities Area Forums – so check out how you can get involved. Back in September, I was pleased to attend the official opening of the newly refurbished skate park at Royal Victoria Park in Bath. The new attraction is very well used by our children and young
people and serves as a flagship for the vast range of improvements we’ve carried out for people to enjoy our parks and green spaces. You can see more of what’s on offer on page 12. Next year, the Council will hold a referendum on a directly elected Mayor for Bath and North East Somerset, after receiving a petition on the issue. Please take a look at page 10, which sets out the process for the referendum and offers a comparison between the current model of Council governance and the proposed model of an elected Mayor.
“We plan to save £38 million while still protecting vital frontline services”
Newsdesk............................... 4 The latest news from our area. Includes your chance to win £50 in our competition
Events diary............................ 8 Winter events in the city with the famous Bath Christmas market and plenty of festive fun
An elected Mayor?...................10 We look at the referendum process and outline the key issues
Prioritising parks.....................12 Why the Council is investing in parks and green spaces throughout the area
Increasing efficiency...............16 How B&NES plans to save by finding new ways to deliver services and generate income
Children’s Centres...................18 Finally, on page 24, you can learn more about the results of our recent consultation on the east of Bath Park & Ride proposals (as featured in the last Connect) and find out how the Council has decided to progress the matter. Councillor Tim Warren Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council
is brought to you by...
Connect magazine is distributed to 76,000 households. It is produced in partnership between Bath & North East Somerset Council and MediaClash
In this issue...
MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW T: 01225 475800 W: www.mediaclash.co.uk
The Council’s Children’s Centres offer help with every aspect of caring for a young child
Everyone’s a winner...............19 The success of Sirona’s teams is celebrated in their annual Awards for Excellence
Park & Ride............................. 24 The Council decides on whether Bath’s east side should have a Park & Ride
Christmas collections........... 26 Rubbish and recycling collections during the festive season, plus the chance to win £70
Stay well this winter.............. 30 Seasonal health advice and how to make the best use of your NHS during the winter
Meet the.................................. 38 A Connecting Families team keyworker tells us why his job is so important
For advertising enquiries contact lisa.rodd@mediaclash.co.uk www.bathnes.gov.uk | 3
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Keeping you informed with the latest news from the area
The gritting fleet are all set for action
Ready for winter d
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The Council’s salt storage facilities are at full capacity in preparation for the possibility of bad weather conditions this season
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ath & North East Somerset Council is prepared for a tough winter, with fully stocked salt storage facilities on standby for the area’s roads. Some 1,300 tonnes of salt are ready for spreading by the Council’s nine-strong fleet of gritting vehicles, should temperatures plummet this winter bringing heavy snowfall. The Council is able to assist with snow clearing and to operate the gritting fleet round the clock. The fleet covers more than 260 miles of highway, ensuring maximum support to homes and businesses throughout the area. This amounts to over 38% of Bath and North East Somerset’s road network and is 8% higher than the national average. According to Kelvin Packer, Group Manager for Highways and Traffic, the team is making good use of new technology to keep them on top of the problem. “Our gritting fleet is using some of the most advanced technology available to control the rates at which we spread salt,” he says.
4 | Connect | Winter 2015
In addition, they use a specialised winter weather forecasting service, which provides daily updates, and a solar-powered weather station. “Combined with round-the-clock access to real-time weather forecasting, the team can conduct gritting runs when they are needed and ensure we don’t waste any road salt,” says Kelvin. The Council is committed to making it easier for residents, businesses and visitors to get around the area during winter, whatever the weather, and has been busy preparing for the possibility of flooding, strong winds and icy conditions. The gritting fleet has been serviced and tested, and teams have been out in the community refilling more than 400 grit bins at roadsides. They have been supported by members of the Council’s snow warden scheme, in which members of the public have been encouraged to help clear snow and ice in some of the areas the Council’s vehicles are unable to get to. There is plenty of information and advice on the Council’s website o help you prepare for
winter, including a leaflet offering tips on dealing with severe winter weather on highways and pavements, plus guidance for householders on how to clear snow and ice from outside their homes. n
Find out more
For more information visit www.bathnes.gov.uk/ gritting. For updates on the status of Council services during severe winter weather, follow www.twitter.com/bathnes. You can help us manage the road network during severe weather by reporting any problems on: www. bathnes.gov.uk/reportit or via email: councilconnect@bathnes.gov.uk or on Twitter: @ccbathnes. You can also text 07797 806545, or call 01225 394041 during working hours or 01225 477477 in an emergency.
www.bathnes.gov.uk/latestnews Help shape the future
Have your say on planning
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wo key planning documents – the Bath & North East Somerset Placemaking Plan and the Joint Spatial Plan for the West of England – are being published for the public to view and comment on. The Draft Placemaking Plan, due to be published in the week beginning 14 December, complements the adopted Core Strategy and sets out detailed planning policies for Bath and North East Somerset up to 2029. These include: n spatial frameworks for and allocating sites for development in Bath, Keynsham, the Somer Valley and the Rural Areas n designations where there is a need to identify and protect valued assets, such as landscapes settings of settlements or Local Green Space n a range of District-wide criteria-based planning policies At this stage the public is being asked to comment on whether the Plan meets the four tests of ‘soundness’: whether it has been positively prepared; whether it is justified; whether it is effective; and whether it is consistent with national policy.
Guidance on how to comment on the Draft Placemaking Plan and where it can be viewed will be available on the Council’s website: www.bathnes.gov.uk/placemakingplan The Joint Spatial Plan for the West of England is being drawn up by the four West of England Councils. They are seeking the public’s involvement in drawing up a strategic plan to help steer development in the wider area over the next 20 years up to 2036. The Plan, which will also inform the review of the B&NES Core Strategy, will identify: n the number of new homes and amount of new employment land needed n the locations for new homes and employment land n what transport and other infrastructure will be needed to support growth in the area The four West of England Councils are seeking input on an Issues and Options document and the deadline for comments is 29 January 2016. Details about how to make comments on the Joint Spatial Plan for the West of England are provided in the consultation document. For further information, please visit: www.jointplanningwofe.org.uk. n
Report an empty property
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n the run-up to Empty Property Week, which runs from 30 November to 6 December, Councils in the West of England are encouraging people to report any empty properties they see. Bath & North East Somerset Council, Bristol City, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Councils are united in a joint initiative to tackle the problems associated with residential properties left empty for a long time. No-Use-EmptyWest, which has its own website www. no-use-emptywest.co.uk, provides help and advice to owners on how to bring empty homes back into use for residential accommodation. Once empty homes in the area have been identified, teams across the Council
will work together to deal with the problems they can cause. An empty property which has been neglected and has started to deteriorate can have a significant impact on the neighbourhood and and B&NES Council provides a range of incentives and advice to owners of empty homes to help them restore their properties to use. In the worst cases, if it is in the public interest, the Council also has the power to take enforcement action against the owners. If you see or know of an empty residential property in your area, you can let the Council know by visiting their website: www.bathnes.gov.uk and following the link for ‘Report It’. n
News round-up
Insulation grant available A Council grant of up to £6,000 is available to B&NES residents for solid wall insulation, available through the Energy at Home scheme. The grant can be accessed by homeowners, private landlords and private tenants, but is only available for a limited time. Grants for other energy-saving measures are also available, plus extra support for those most in need. Contact the Energy at Home Advice Service to find out what you may be eligible for. Freephone 0800 038 5680 or visit www.energyathome.org.uk
Awards deadline The deadline for the Chairman’s Community Awards is looming, so if you would like to vote you’ll need to get your nomination in by 12 noon on Friday 27 November. This year, for the first time, the Awards will feature the category of Carer of the Year. Last year there were 79 nominations, which included volunteers, community leaders, organisations and local businesses in recognition of the positive impact they make on their communities. For full details and nomination forms, visit www.bathnes.gov. uk/chairmanawards or call 01225 477188.
Praise for Bath: Hacked Bath leads the way in smart city technology, according to Digital Minister Ed Vaisey. In a recent speech he singled out Bath:Hacked for the way it makes use of state-of-the-art technology to improve the life of the local community. The organisation provides access to open data and supports local residents and businesses with projects that benefit the local area using new technology. B&NES Council, Bath:Hacked and the University of Bath are exploring ways to expand the scheme.
Support local business! Show your support for your business community by shopping in local, independently owned businesses on 5 December. Small Business Saturday is a nationwide event, and many small business across the district will be taking part, offering discounts and hosting special events. For more information, visit www.smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com
www.bathnes.gov.uk | 5
Newsdesk
Cyclists: be seen!
B
&NES is giving away high-visibility rucksack covers to cyclists within BANES this winter, as part of its Be Seen Be Safe Campaign. The Council is celebrating the success of a funding bid accepted by Avon and Somerset Constabulary’s Road Safety Trust. Funding of £2,500 has been awarded to the Council to supply high visibility rucksack covers to cyclists who commute in the Bath and North East Somerset area. This follows last year’s “winter-light up campaign” which proved very popular with many commuters and helped them to be seen and remain safe on the roads. As the nights draw in, it is important to follow a few basic rules to keep you safe on
your bike. To be visible cyclists are advised to wear bright or fluorescent clothing during the Safety first day and when visibility is reduced. At night wear reflective clothing as it shows up in vehicle headlights. To claim your free rucksack cover, please complete a brief questionnaire available from your local library. The rucksack covers will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, as supplies are limited. A maximum of four covers per family. n
Here are the latest ongoing projects in your community
Be a good neighbour
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t’s party season and a good time of year to spare a thought for your neighbours. Excessive noise can be a source of annoyance and stress, which can interfere with everyday life, cause sleep disturbance and, in some cases, even affect people’s health. If you are a victim of noise pollution, the Environmental Protection Team is on hand to help. They can investigate noise from domestic premises, such as loud music, TV or radio, noise from commercial premises or from the street, DIY activities, continually ringing alarms, noise from construction and demolition sites and persistently barking dogs. Another potential nuisance at this time of
year is smoke from bonfires and the chimneys of neighbouring properties. Contrary to popular belief, there is no law against lighting bonfires before a particular time, but they can cause air pollution and affect people with breathing difficulties. Instead of burning your waste, take it to the Council’s recycling centres, use the garden waste recycling service, compost your garden waste or use the bulky waste collection service. For more information on getting help with either of these problems visit: www.bathnes. gov.uk/services/environment/pollution/ noise-pollution or www.bathnes.gov.uk/ services/environment/pollution/bonfires n
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Connect competition WIN ! Name £50 the location? Do you recognise this row of buildings in Bath? If you do then enter our competition. This photograph was kindly provided by the Bath Records Office (www.batharchives.co.uk)
How to enter Email: Send your answer to connectmagazine@bathnes.gov.uk Post: Send your answer to Connect Competition, Floor 1, Guildhall, Bath BA1 5AW Last issue’s winner: Mrs Maslen of Queens Drive, Combe Down, Bath.
Terms and conditions: Competition open to residents of Bath and North East Somerset only. Employees of MediaClash and Bath & North East Somerset Council (or relatives) not eligible to enter. Editor’s decision is final.
6 | Connect | Winter 2015
Bishop Sutton Primary School
This project has three phases: Phase 1 – completed: A new extension adjacent to the existing Hall for a new temporary Classroom. Alterations to the School entrance to form a new Reception area, Toilets and Office Space. Phase 2 – under construction: A new single-storey Classroom Block providing five new classrooms and associated welfare facilities. Existing temporary classroom blocks are to be demolished. Phase 3 – due to start pre-summer 2016: The temporary Classroom in Phase 1, above, to be altered to provide a primary Food Technology Kitchen.
Hicks Gate Fire Station
Work is on target for the station to be completed by Christmas and operational in early 2016, providing vital services to the area, and Keynsham and Brislington in particular. The station, project-managed by B&NES, will cost £6.2 million.
Advertising Feature
The perfect solution for any trip
It’s like owning a car, without the hassle… Whether it's for an hour or a day, using a car club is the perfect solution for occasional use or short trips – now there's an idea...
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n a world where we are all looking to reduce our financial overheads, owning a car can seem like an indulgence – particularly if it sits idle for much of the time. Perhaps you already have your own transport, but the flexibility of an occasional second vehicle would be handy. Car clubs offer the opportunity to use a car as and when you need it, while freeing you from big bills. Car clubs enable you to book a car on demand, without having to own one. Whether it’s for an hour or a day, using a car
“If you drive less than 8,000 miles a year, membership will almost certainly save you money” City Car Club
club is the perfect solution for occasional use or short trips. The idea is simple: the car operator provides cars at designated locations around the city, which can be easily looked up via a website. Members book online or by phone and only pay when the car is used and for any fuel consumed. It’s easy to manage your booking online and return the car to its dedicated parking bay. “Using City Car Club is more convenient than owning a car and much cheaper; in fact, for many journeys in and around town it is easier and cheaper to use a City car than call a taxi,” said Conor, from Bath. Once you’ve signed up, you have access to a wide range of vehicles. Car types range from super minis to vans, with estates and MPVs in between, giving you flexibility to choose the right vehicle for the occasion. Want to move a sofa? Simply book a van. Membership of a car club also often gives you access to their network of cars across the country, making it an ideal way to get around on city break holidays or days out without breaking the bank on hire cars.
As the cars are maintained, taxed, insured and cleaned by the operator, membership of a car club is a fraction of the cost of owning your own vehicle. If you are normally a low mileage driver this can be a significant advantage, leaving you with more money to spend on priorities elsewhere. And, with special schemes for younger drivers and business users, almost everyone can take advantage. For more information about car clubs near you, visit www.travelwest.info/carclubs. n
Travelwest is the onestop website for travel information in the West of England, however you like to travel
www.bathnes.gov.uk | 7
Calendar
events diary
Copyright held by Wu Lan-Chiann
Christmas is coming and there’s plenty to celebrate, with parties, pantomime and the spectacular Bath Christmas Market
28 Nov to May 2016 Until 3 Jan
A winter wonderland in Bath
Discover the art of Wu Lan-Chiann
NOVEMBER
n Kurt Jackson: Place Until 3 January 2016 A stunning celebration of the concept of place by artist Kurt Jackson, who collaborated with 32 writers for this exhibition. At the Victoria Art Gallery, Bridge Street, Bath BA2 4AT. www.victoriagal.org.uk 01225 477233
Carols around the Christmas Tree 18 December Start the Christmas festivities with an evening of family fun, singing your favourite festive tunes around the tree. From 8pm to 9.30pm at the VH Studio Theatre, Victoria Hall, Church Street, Radstock BA3 3QG. www.victoriahallradstock.co.uk 01761 438885
8 | Connect | Winter 2015
n Bath on Ice Until 3 January 2016 Get your skates on and glide round this winter wonderland in the centre of Bath. Open 10am to 9pm every day, at Royal Victoria Park, Bath. www.bathonice.com 07960 083303 n Twilight Talk: Fashion in 1760 26 November Learn about a brocaded silk dress from 1760, which might have belonged to soprano Elizabeth Linley. 6pm at the Fashion Museum, Assembly Rooms. Tickets £10 to include a glass of wine. www.bathboxoffice.org.uk 01225 463362
n Paulton Christmas Market 28 November Celebrate the Christmas lights switch-on in Paulton with carol singing and a Christmas Market. The main road will be closed from 4pm-7pm to help the festive
Keynsham Winter Festival 27 November This year’s theme is Peter Pan and prizes will be awarded to the best-dressed fairies and pirates. Follow the procession along the High Street from Charlton Road to Temple Street and join the countdown to the Christmas lights switch-on. With music and dance, plus the chance to do some early Christmas shopping. www.keynsham-tc.gov.uk 0117 986 8683
atmosphere. Festive food is available from The Hub Grub and mulled wine from The Lamb pub. www.yourpaulton.org
n Acoustic Sessions 28 November Jim Moray, winner of five BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards performs material from his forthcoming album of traditional ballads. 7.30pm at the Victoria Hall, Church Street, Radstock,BA3 3QG. Tickets £8. www.victoriahallradstock.co.uk 01761 438885 n Christmas Craft Fair 28 & 29 November A chance to buy handmade gifts from
local makers offering ceramics, textiles, jewellery and prints. 12 noon-4.30pm at the American Museum in Britain, Claverton Manor, Bath BA2 7BD. Free. www.americanmuseum.org 01225 460503
n Reflections: Contemporary Ink Paintings by Wu Lan-Chiann 28 November to 15 May 2016 Wu Lan-Chiann’s first solo exhibition in the UK. At the Museum of East Asian Art, 12 Bennett Street, Bath BA1 2QJ. Adults £5, concessions £4. Free to students, children and Discovery Card holders. www.meaa.co.uk 01225 464640
DECEMBER
n Bath Film Festival 3-13 December This year the BFF celebrates its 25th birthday with a chance to see outstanding films before their release date and a range of spectacular events. www.bathfilmfestival.org.uk
n Midsomer Norton Christmas Fayre & Lights Switch On 4 December A festive event put on by Midsomer Norton Community Trust, with entertainment from 6pm and Christmas Lights switch-on at 7.15pm. At the Hollies Gardens, High Street, Midsomer Norton. www.midsomernortoncommunity trust.co.uk; 01761 419133 n Prior Park at Christmas 5 December Celebrate Christmas in the beautiful setting of Prior Park in Bath, with music, storytelling and craft workshops. 10am-4pm at Prior Park Landscape Garden, Ralph Allen Drive, Bath, BA2 5AH. Normal admission price, free to National Trust members and under-5s. www.nationaltrust.org.uk 01225 833977 n Drink thy Wine with a Merry Heart 7 December A lecture illustrating the pictorial history of the drinking glass, including a look at drinking habits in different countries and different glass designs. From 7pm at The Holburne Museum, Great Pulteney Street, Bath BA2 4DB. £7 to pre-booked visitors, full-time students free. www.bedfas.co.uk 01225 742819 n NT Live: Jane Eyre 8 December A live screening of the Bristol Old Vic/ National Theatre co-production of Charlotte Brontë’s classic novel, directed by Sally Cookson. 7pm at Midsomer Norton Town Hall, The Island, BA3 2HQ. Adults £12, under-18s £10. www.midsomernortoncommunity trust.co.uk; 01761 419133
n Jack and the Beanstalk 10 December to 10 January Get into the Christmas spirit with Nigel Havers, Katy Ashworth and EastEnders’ Nick Wilton as they bring this fairytale to life for the festive season. At the Theatre Royal Bath, Sawclose, Bath BA1 1ET. Stalls/Royal Circle £31, Dress Circle £26, Gallery and standby seats £9. www.theatreroyal.org.uk 01225 448844 n Santa at the Station 12 & 13 December A treat for all the family as Santa arrives with a sackful of gifts and Yuletide cheer. From 10am to 4pm at Somerset & Dorset Railway Heritage Trust, Silver Street, Midsomer Norton BA3 2EY. www.sdjr.co.uk email: general@sdjr.co.uk
n Festive Fashions 13 December A chance to make your own Christmas decorations based on the Fashion Museum’s collections. Children will love delving into the treasure box to come up with their own colourful creations. From 2pm to 3.30pm at the Fashion Museum, Assembly Rooms, Bennett Street, Bath BA1 2QH. Age 3+. Price included in normal admission. www.fashionmuseum.co.uk 01225 477789 n Art Store Tours 16 December Join our conducted tour of the vaults for a chance to explore parts of Victoria Art Gallery that are not normally seen. At the Victoria Art Gallery, Bridge Street, Bath BA2 4AT. Free, but book in advance. www.victoriagal.org.uk 01225 477232 n Terrace Dining at the Roman Baths 15, 16 & 19-23 December Enjoy a romantic dinner on the Terrace overlooking the torch-lit Roman Baths. Only available during December while the Terrace is open as a restaurant, at the Roman Baths, The Pump Room,
The Radstock Museum Christmas Fayre
5 December
This popular event is a great opportunity to find those special Christmas gifts. There will be stalls throughout the Museum selling a range of goods, plus a raffle, tombola, bric-a-brac stalls and live festive music. 10am-4pm at the Radstock Museum, Waterloo Road, Radstock BA3 3EP. Free entry. www.radstockmuseum.co.uk/events-and-talks 01761 437722
The market is ideal for Christmas gifts
Bath Christmas Market 26 November to 13 December Choose from more than 170 sparkling chalets in the streets around Bath Abbey packed with beautiful local handmade gifts. Plus mulled wine, mince pies and carol singers to put you into the Christmas spirit while you shop. Christmas isn’t Christmas until you’ve visited the Bath Christmas market. www.bathchristmasmarket.co.uk
Stall Street, Bath BA1 1LZ. Table reservations available from 7pm. www.visitbath.co.uk/whats-on/ terrace-dining-at-the-roman-baths 01225 444477
n Leap into 2016 28 December Instead of going to the sales, cheer up the winter darkness and look forward to the New Year by taking the children to a fun workshop where they can learn how to make a Roman oil lamp. Age 3+. 11am-3pm at the Roman Baths, Abbey Church Yard, Bath BA1 1LZ. Included in normal admission price. www.romanbaths.co.uk 01225 477785 n Hormazd Narielwalla pop-up show Until 3 January A chance to see eight original works by London-based artist Hormazd Narielwalla, who uses bespoke Savile Row tailoring patterns to create artworks that represent the body in abstract form. At the Fashion Museum, Assembly Rooms, Bennett Street, Bath BA1 2QH. www.fashionmuseum.co.uk 01225 477789
JANUARY
n Philip Bouchard: 52 Views of Bath 9 January to 21 February In his show of 52 views – one for each week of the year – Bath-based landscape artist Philip Bouchard captures both familiar and more unusual aspects of the city of Bath and the vision of architect John Wood. At the Victoria Art Gallery, Bridge Street, Bath BA2 4AT. Free. www.victoriagal.org.uk 01225 477233
n Grayson Perry: The Vanity of Small Differences 9 January to 10 April A series of six large-scale tapestries by Grayson Perry, created alongside the Channel 4 series All in the Best Possible Taste, including many of the characters the artist encountered during the making of the series. At the Victoria Art Gallery, Bridge Street, Bath BA2 4AT. £4, concessions, under-21s and Discovery Card holders free. www.victoriagal.org.uk 01225 477233
Add an event Any member of the public or organisation or can add an event to our online calendar. All you need to do is register with us via the website. Events will be searchable by date or category. Visit www.bathnes.gov. uk/events to begin uploading your event.
www.bathnes.gov.uk | 9
Should B&NES have an elected Mayor?
The referendum must be held before the end of May 2016
A referendum on a directly elected Mayor for Bath and North East Somerset will now be held in 2016, after a petition reached the required threshold of 6,437 votes
A
petition calling for a directly elected Mayor for Bath and North East Somerset has, over the past year, collected signatures from over 5% of the local electorate. This means that the Council is required by law to hold a referendum asking residents to decide whether they would like to keep the current system of Leader and Cabinet or replace this with a directly elected Mayor and Cabinet. Why do we need to hold a referendum? A referendum has to take place because over 5% of electors have requested it via a petition. 6,817 people who signed that petition matched entries on the electoral register. The total number of valid entries required to validate the petition was 6,437. Why is this a big decision and why should I vote? The outcome of the referendum is binding on the Council and, should a directly elected Mayor be preferred to the existing Leader and Cabinet form of governance, the new arrangement may only be reversed by another referendum, which by law cannot take place for a minimum of 10 years. The outcome of the referendum will be based on the majority of votes cast, irrespective of the turnout.
10 | Connect | Winter 2015
When will the referendum take place? The referendum must be held before the end of May 2016. Further details of the referendum process will be announced in due course. Who can vote at the referendum? You can vote in the referendum if you are registered to vote in Bath and North East Somerset, and you are 18 or over on the day of the referendum, and you are a British citizen, or a citizen of another European Union country, or a qualifying Commonwealth citizen. Qualifying Commonwealth citizens are people who have leave (permission) to enter or remain in the UK. NB – British citizens living overseas cannot vote in the referendum. If you have recently moved or are not currently on the electoral register, you can register online at www.gov.uk/register-tovote. Alternatively you can contact Council Connect on 01225 394041 to request an electoral registration form. How can I vote? Poll cards with information about the voting arrangements will be sent out to registered electors in advance of the referendum. You can vote:
n In person at your allocated polling station n By post
n By proxy (by appointing someone else
to vote on your behalf).
How many people need to vote for a directly elected Mayor in the referendum for a Mayoral election to take place? There is no minimum turnout threshold. If the majority of votes cast is in favour of a directly elected Mayor, then a Mayoral election will be held. How much will running the Mayoral referendum cost? The cost is estimated to be around £180,000 and this will be funded by the Council. How much will the appointment of either a Mayor or Leader cost per year? Both a Leader and a Mayor’s salary would be set by an independent remuneration panel. The Leader currently costs £30,515. Although the Mayor’s salary has not been set, based on Government estimates, it is likely that the cost will be in the region of £80,000. What’s the difference between the current Civic Mayor, a directly elected Mayor (elected following a referendum) and a metro Mayor? There are currently Civic Mayors for Bath, and Midsomer Norton. Their role is ceremonial and they perform a similar function to Chairs of Parish and Town Councils.
www.bathnes.gov.uk/elections
A directly elected Mayor for Bath and North East Somerset would replace the Leader of the Council – please see table below for differences. A metro Mayor would be a Mayor for an economic region, as in the case of Greater Manchester. The four West of England Councils have made a devolution proposal for more powers from central Government and, whilst the councils have no plans for a Metro Mayor, the Government may, however, raise this as part of their response.
Could the Council change the directly elected Mayor system following the referendum? If an authority in England changes its governance arrangements as a result of a referendum – as is proposed in Bath and North East Somerset – then it cannot hold another referendum to make a further change (such as reverting back to the previous system) for 10 years. What happens if a councillor is elected mayor? If a councillor chooses to stand for Mayor
and is subsequently elected, the relevant electoral ward is declared vacant and a by-election is held to fill it. What about campaigning? Any individual, group or organisation interested in campaigning will have to adhere to the campaign expenses outlined in “The Local Authority (Conduct of Referendums) (England) Regulations 2012”. The referendum expenses limit is £2,362 plus 5.9 pence per local government elector in the referendum area. n
What is the difference between a Council Leader and a directly elected Mayor? The following table sets out the main differences between the two and also where there would be some similarities
Council Leader
ELECTION
ACCOUNTABILITY
COSTS
Elected Mayor
The Council Leader is elected by a majority vote held by the full Council of 65 locally elected councillors.
An elected Mayor would be directly elected by the people of Bath and North East Somerset.
The Council Leader is one of 65 locally elected councillors.
An elected Mayor would be in addition to the 65 elected councillors and would not be a councillor.
The Council Leader is elected by the Council for a period of up to four years, but can be voted out of office if they no longer have the support of the majority of other councillors.
An elected Mayor would hold office for four years and cannot be voted out of office by other councillors or members of the public until the next election.
Each year the Council Leader presents a budget and major policies to the Council. It needs half the members of the Council to overturn the Leader’s proposals and force a rethink.
Each year an elected Mayor would present a budget and major policies to the Council. It would need two thirds of members of the Council to overturn proposals and force a rethink.
The Leader has the power to appoint and remove councillors to the Cabinet (including one appointed as Deputy Leader).
A Mayor would have the power to appoint and remove councillors to the Cabinet (including one appointed as Deputy Mayor).
The Council Leader is held to account through full Council and councillor committees. He or she has to stand for election as a councillor every four years.
An elected Mayor would be held to account through the full Council and councillor committees, as well as through mayoral elections every four years.
The Council Leader in conjunction with the Cabinet decides which kind of decisions are taken by either: themselves individually; delegated to the Cabinet; delegated to individual Cabinet members; or delegated to officers.
An elected Mayor would decide which kind of decisions are taken by either: themselves individually; delegated to the Cabinet; delegated to individual Cabinet members; or delegated to officers.
There is no cost for the election of a Council Leader, which takes place at a meeting of the Council.
An elected Mayor would be elected every four years by local voters, which would cost about £180,000 for a stand-alone election and about £90,000 if the election were to be combined with another election.
Currently, the Council Leader is paid an allowance of £30,515. The Council Leader is not a local authority employee so is not paid a salary or National Insurance or pension contributions. Therefore the total cost per year is £30,515.
The Government has estimated that a Mayor’s salary would cost £61,030. As a local authority employee, the Council would be required to also pay a Mayor’s National Insurance (£6,139) and pension contributions (£12,816). Therefore the total cost per year is estimated to be £79,985.
www.bathnes.gov.uk | 11
Riding high
Council investment in the area’s parks continues to transform the green spaces we spend our leisure time in
M
ajor improvements are transforming Royal Victoria Park and more are nearing completion as part of a £500,000 investment in revitalising Bath and North East Somerset’s green spaces. The exciting, newly refurbished skate park in Royal Victoria Park celebrated its opening
in September with a skatejam, which included friendly competitions for all ages and abilities. The new park, made up of a series of concrete bowls sunk into the ground, along with ramps, blocks, steps and rails, has proved a huge success with all the skaters, BMX and scooter riders who use it. It boasts one of the only ‘vert’ bowls – a deep bowl with vertical sides – in the country.
The park, built by Bristol-based contractor Canvas Spaces, was designed in consultation with a panel of regular skate park users ranging in age from 15 to over 50. Scooter rider Nathan, 15, was a keen supporter: “I love the bowl,” he said. “And I loved being involved in the process of helping to shape the design.” Another panel member, Ben, was equally enthusiastic: “This is one of the best skate parks in the area. With a mixture of deep bowls and smaller features, there is something for everyone. It’s a real asset to the local scene.”
Gimme shelter
There is also to be a shelter, currently on order, donated by the friends and family of a young rider who died, in memory of their son. This is one of the things that came out of the department’s consultation with riders.
The new bowls at Victoria Park
12 | Connect | Winter 2015
“I love the bowl. And I loved being involved in the process of helping to shape the design”
www.bathnes.gov.uk/leisure-and-parks
“They used to stand under the old ramps, but with the new design you can’t do that,” says Play & Community Development Officer, Jeremy Dymond. “We knew it was something the riders wanted, but our budget wouldn’t stretch to that, so it’s great to have a little bit of shelter for the riders. When you might be spending all day there it’s good to be able to hide from a shower of rain or the wind.”
Other park improvements
Looking to the future
These are not the only projects to benefit from B&NES’ commitment to improving green spaces. Going forward there will be a focus on improving parks in other areas of the county such as, Keynsham, NortonRadstock and Chew Valley, as well as improving the green links between. A number of initiatives are already in place, including the extension of wild meadow areas to improve the biodiversity of the area, and imminent completion of a permanent café in Royal Victoria Park Play Area. This runs alongside exciting events in the parks such as performances, play events, live music and, for the first time this year, weddings, which proved very successful over the summer. The Council also continues its commitment of working with allotment holders to help people have chance to ‘grow their own’. And there is a programme of improvements planned for play areas across the area (see box right). Like the rest of the Parks Team, Jeremy Dymond is passionate about the importance of green spaces to the community: “There is a great deal of research to show that being outside, taking exercise and recreation, is incredibly good for your mental health as well as your physical health,” he says. “It’s good to remember that parks are helping to keep us healthy and that, as a Parks Team, we are connecting people to green space throughout B&NES for these reasons.” n
A colourful display
Breathtaking views
Wildflower meadow
Great Dell aerial walkway
Further improvements in Royal Victoria Park include a new, colourful wildflower meadow. This has been created largely out of the recycled rock and rubble excavated from the refurbished skate park. The new Gait-Wilson Skate Park Meadow has been sown with seeds from nearby St Catherine’s Valley, and planted by children from St Andrew’s Primary School in Bath. The meadow should provide ideal conditions for wild flowers and should come into its own in spring and summer of 2016.
Elsewhere in Royal Victoria Park another project has recently been completed. A new aerial walkway provides breathtaking views across the park from among the trees of the Great Dell. The Dell is a sunken wooded area in the north part of the park alongside Weston Road. The former stone quarry, inspired by William Beckford, was planted in the 1840s with a collection of unusual trees including large North American conifers. A walkway was built 20 years ago but closed in 2011.
Play parks
New equipment
B&NES is investing £115,000 in improving facilities in play parks as part of a three-year programme to upgrade equipment. Here are some of the planned improvements: n Royal Victoria Park, Bath
New equipment in the play area n Alexandra Park, Bath A new noughts and crosses play panel
Find out more
n Bloomfield, Bath A new multi-play unit
For more information on what B&NES’ parks and play areas have to offer, including the new skatepark, please visit: www.bathnes.gov.uk/services/ sport-leisure-and-parks You can also follow us on Twitter: @BathnesParks
n Brickfields, Bath A new basket swing and a low roundabout for toddlers n Chalfield Park, Keynsham Resurfacing to improve play for children and make it safer
Safer play
www.bathnes.gov.uk | 13
Day in the life
Caring for people at home Have you considered a career that would enable you to give quality care and support to people living in their own homes?
Bath & North East Somerset Council is working in partnership with a small number of domiciliary care providers in order to ensure that people who need support to continue living at home, can get the very best care and support they need – at the right time. Our providers are currently looking to recruit a number of people with the right personal attributes to join their dedicated staff teams. This could be you. Here you can read about how one of our carers feels about the work they do.
My first visit is with Doris who is living with dementia. My visit is part of her daily routine and she finds this comforting and familiar. I support her with personal care, breakfast and medication, making sure I keep an eye out for any new hazards or risks in the property and any changes in her appearance or personality. If I’m able to make Doris smile or laugh while I’m with her, this gives me a sense of achievement and I know that I have left her happy and content. Next is Mary. She can do most things for herself so I help her with the things she can’t. One of the highlights of the visit for both of us is being able to sit down together and chat over a cup of tea after her needs have been met. Companionship is important as Mary doesn’t get many visitors and doesn’t go out very often.
14 | Connect | Winter 2015
My next task is to see Graham and do his shopping for him. Graham has Parkinson’s disease and this has recently progressed and affected his mobility. I help him write a list, going through his fridge and cupboards and making suggestions for what he might need, then I go to the supermarket. Sometimes, when he seems low, I go to the bakery section and buy him his favourite cake! We put the shopping away together so he can see everything I have bought. I always get bird food: he loves his birds and I go with him out to his aviary to feed them. Then it’s off for manual handling refresher training. This is a chance to update my skills and knowledge, which really helps my confidence and professional development, as well as benefiting our service users. I also get to meet other staff and we have the opportunity to work out the best moving and handling practice for specific service users who need support with their mobility. The training can be fun and it’s good to work as part of a team. I love the stories people tell me about their pasts and I look forward to each chapter of their story. For some service users, I rely on their photographs and surroundings to engage them in conversation, especially someone who may have memory difficulties. I’m proud to be a carer. I know the job I do makes a difference to the people I support and their families. I love being able to work independently and being in a trusted position, and the respect I get from people every day makes it all worthwhile. Each day
is different. I never thought I would love being a Home Care Assistant so much. But I decided to go for it and I haven’t looked back! n
Find out more For more information on domiciliary care visit www.bathnes.gov.uk/ stayinginownhome
If you are interested in working in the care field, please contact one of the following agencies: n Care South: 01761 422920 or amy.king@care-south.co.uk n Somerset Care: 01373 475590 or www.somersetcare.co.uk n Carewatch Bath: 01761 411188 or Jessica@carewatchbath.co.uk n Way Ahead Care: 01225 789161 or careers@wayaheadcare.co.uk
Improve your home’s energy performance!
Our Energy at Home Advice Service provides free, expert advice on a wide range of topics.
get a better deal on your energy bills learn how to use your heating system and appliances more efficiently find out which energy saving improvements might be suitable for your home find out what grants, finance, and support you may be eligible for be referred for a home energy assessment get a quote for any measures you may want installed.
Grants of up to £6,000 available! The Council has a grant available for home owners, private landlords and private tenants of up to £6,000 for solid wall insulation and up to £2,000 for other measures such as: boilers & heating controls loft, cavity and floor insulation windows and external doors renewable technologies e.g. solar panels This grant is only available for a limited time. External works may be subject to planning permission.
Contact the Energy at Home Advice Service for more information: Freephone 0800 038 5680 Monday - Friday 9am-6pm & Saturday 9am-12pm advice@energyathome.org.uk
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www.energyathome.org.uk
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@MyEnergyAtHome
There is a determination to protect frontline services such as street cleaning
Increasing efficiency and protecting essential frontline services B&NES Council plans to save £38m over four years with new ways to deliver services and generate more income
T
he plan has been put together in the face of the most challenging financial situation the Council has ever experienced. Central Government has cut funding for local authorities at a time of ever-increasing demand for services, such as care for older people. Councils have a legal obligation to balance their budgets; they are not allowed to run up an overdraft. In July 2015, the Council’s Cabinet began a detailed review of Council spending, looking for ways to protect essential frontline services, improve efficiency and find new sources of income. The four-year plan is based on the findings of this review to date, which identified £19 million of savings. This £19 million is made up from: n £7 million from revising previous financial planning assumptions, and new Government policies such as the cap on pay rises for public sector employees n £5 million from more efficient ways of working and delivering services n £7 million from new sources of income
16 | Connect | Winter 2015
Number of opportunities The four-year plan sets out several areas where the authority can save money by working more efficiently, and introducing more innovative ways of delivering services. These opportunities include: n New ways of working in the authority and new ways to provide services. n More collaboration with other organisations such as the NHS and neighbouring authorities to share resources or partner on service delivery. n Putting in place more early warning systems and care services that help keep people at home and out of hospital. n Building on the success of the Connecting Families programme for vulnerable households so fewer children have to go into care. New ideas to earn more Balancing the books isn’t only about saving money. It is just as important and
Considerable savings are required
“Councils have a legal obligation to balance their budgets; they are not allowed to run up an overdraft”
www.bathnes.gov.uk/Budget2016
effective to make money to help offset budget cuts. B&NES believe it can earn around £7 million over the next four years. Proposals include: n Encouraging more people to visit Bath and contribute to the local economy, through markets, pop-ups and cultural or social events. Projected income for 2016/17: £300,000 n Earning more from Heritage Services, such as the planned new learning centre which will attract new visitors to the most important Roman archaeological site in the country. Projected income for 2016/17: £350,000 n Making more of local parks by hosting weddings and events at local parks. Projected income for 2016/17: £50,000 n Investing up to £2.3 million into Digital B&NES to boost connectivity will generate income for the authority and help local businesses expand, creating extra employment and related spending. Projected income for 2016/17: £100,000 (potentially increasing by £1mn by 2020)
n Better use of the authority-owned shops, offices and industrial units across the area. Projected income for 2016/17: £375,000 n Developing B&NES CCTV as a commercial service. Projected income for 2016/17: £50,000 n Setting up a property company/joint venture to provide rented housing on Council land, or in vacant accommodation above shops. (An innovative idea that is still at a very early stage). The Council still has to find another £19 million of savings over the next four years. Further reviews will help to uncover new areas for saving money and generating income. Later this year, central government is expected to tell local governments how much funding they can expect. Once the Council has this information, it will prepare more detailed budget proposals for the next financial year (2016/17). n
No cuts to vital frontline services In spite of unprecedented financial pressure, Bath & North East Somerset Council is determined to protect frontline services from spending cuts. These include: n Services for children
and young people, including Children’s Centres and child protection
n Schools, including new
schools and school buildings
n Adult health and
social care
n Environmental services
such as street cleaning, recycling, LED street lighting and environmental health
n Affordable housing n Planning, regeneration and
support for business
n Maintaining/improving
roads and road safety
n Leisure services.
Want to know more about the four-year plan? The Connecting Communities Area Forums will host public meetings where you’ll have the chance to find out more, ask your questions and offer your ideas about the four-year financial plan.
n 23 November, 6pm: Chew Valley Area Forum, Chew Valley Secondary School, Chew Lane, Chew Magna, Bristol, BS40 8QB n 24 November, 6pm: Keynsham Area Forum, The Community Space, Market Walk, Keynsham, Bristol, BS31 1FS n 26 November, 6pm: Bath City Forum, The Banqueting Room, The Guildhall, High Street, Bath BA1 5AW n 30 November, 6pm: Somer Valley Area Forum, Conygre Hall, North Rd, Timsbury, Bath, BA2 0JQ If you plan to attend, please register at www.bathnes.gov.uk/ services/your-council-anddemocracy/budgets-andspending/budget-fairconsultation-2014, or contact Mark Hayward on 01225 396975 or e-mail mark_hayward@ bathnes.gov.uk The Council’s Policy Development and Scrutiny panels will also be looking at the detail, and more information will be available as part of the agenda papers for their November meetings.
www.bathnes.gov.uk | 17
Children’s Centres: a great start in life Children’s Centres offer everything from messy play and parenting courses to help finding childcare. There’s one near you so come along and see what we do
P
arents expecting a new baby or with children under five are on an exciting journey. Bath & North East Somerset Council has a number of Children’s Centres which are there to help with every aspect of caring for your young child and supporting parents so that every child gets a great start in life. The staff teams consist of Health Visitors, Teachers, Early Years Practitioners and Outreach Workers. These are qualified, experienced, friendly professionals who run a variety of groups and services. The centres offer support for the whole family, including advice and support with understanding your child’s development and sessions that will support parents to gain further skills and reach their goals in life and work. The activities available at the centres are offered either free or at a small charge and
include messy play sessions, baby massage and sensory play. All the services specialise in supporting your child’s brain development to help them reach their potential so they thrive in school. The centres also provide free nursery provision for eligible two-year-olds and all three- and four-year-olds. There is something for everyone at every age and stage of development. Our rolling programme is open all year round, so you can join in whenever it suits you. With lots more in store for the future including first-aid and balance bike training. Whatever your situation or need, YOUR local Children’s Centre will have something for you, so check out your nearest one (see box right), join our Facebook page to see what’s on offer and visit our website to find out more: www.bathnes.gov.uk/services/ children-young-people-and-families/ childrens-centres. n
Family Information Service The Family Information Service (FIS) offers help, advice and support on all family-related activities, including information on Children’s Centres. To contact FIS, call 01225 395343 8.45am-4.45pm Mon to Thurs and 8.30am-4.30pm Fri.
18 | Connect | Winter 2015
A Children’s Centre near you There are four main hubs open from 9am to 4:30pm Monday to Thursday and until 4pm Friday: n Bath East – Parkside (hub), St Martin’s and Weston. Call 01225 396662, email parkside_ childrenscentre@bathnes.gov.uk or visit www.facebook.com/ bathchildrenscentres n Bath West (First Steps) – Twerton (hub) and Moorlands. Call 01225 444791, email info@firststepsbath.org.uk or visit www.facebook.com/ FirstStepsChildrensCentres n Somer Valley – Radstock (hub), Midsomer Norton, Peasedown and Paulton. Call 01225 396660, email somervalley_childrenscentre@ bathnes.gov.uk or visit www. facebook.com/bathnessvcc n Keynsham and Chew – Keynsham (hub), Chew Valley and surrounding villages. Call 01225 395400, email keynsham_childrenscentre@ bathnes.gov.uk or visit www.facebook.com/ keynshamandchewvalley childrenscentres
Sirona Awards 2015 The hard work and dedication of Sirona’s staff are celebrated at a ceremony marking the organisation’s fourth anniversary
Sirona Chairman Simon Knighton
M
anager Lynn Beaver was named winner of the Sirona Award for Excellence 2015 in a glittering ceremony marking Sirona care & health’s fourth anniversary. Award winners in all but one category were nominated by their colleagues with the “I think they deserve it award” given to someone put forward by the public. Staff were commended for a range of qualities from creating hi-tech apps to engage with young people or make it easier for staff to arrange social care packages to inspirational work in the community. Sirona care & health was founded in October 2011 as a not-for-profit social enterprise providing community health and adult social care, and works with individuals and families across Bath and North East
Chief Executive Janet Rowse
“Sirona is about hope, joy and compassion, but we are also about the practical support that gives people control over their lives” Somerset and South Gloucestershire. Chief executive Janet Rowse said: “Since Sirona was founded I have asked everyone to take personal responsibility for our actions and to treat everyone as though they were a member of their own family whether they be colleagues, service users, partners or anyone else with whom we come into contact. “Lynn’s nomination demonstrated the huge difference having good leaders in place can make to the staff team and the quality of service they then provide. Words such as
respect, compassion, empathy, commitment, loyalty – among many others, were used to describe Lynn both in her treatment of staff and in the way she cares for the people she treats. She epitomises what Taking it Personally really means.” Lynn, who heads up the Bath Reablement Team which helps people to remain independent or regain their independence after a period of illness or a crisis, also won the Leadership Award. She said: “I was amazed to win one award, let alone two. I am thankful to the people
Committed to Excellence www.bathnes.gov.uk | 19
who nominated me and pleased to receive the awards on behalf of the service; we have an excellent team.” David Read, an assistant practitioner working at Yate Minor Injuries Unit, won the I think they deserve it award after being put forward by an individual who had used the service and was full of praise for his ‘care, compassion and ability to listen’. Simon Knighton, Sirona’s chairman, told staff: “You make Sirona what it is and I am truly appreciative of your commitment and dedication day in and day out. “I never cease to be amazed at the quality of the entries and I am so proud of the tremendous work that you and your colleagues are doing. “I also want to take this opportunity to publicly acknowledge the fantastic work that all of our 2200 staff do to ensure the success of Sirona and, more importantly, to make a real difference to the lives to those who use our services.” Simon and Janet were joined on the judging panel for the awards by Lynne Fernquest, editor of the Bath Chronicle with the award ceremony at Bath’s Assembly Rooms hosted by BBC Points West and Radio Bristol presenter Ali Vowles. n
Colleague of the Year
Winner: Lucy Whitwham from Connections in Midsomer Norton. Highly Commended: district nurse Hollie Godrich based at the Willows Medical Centre in Downend and Piers Pettman from IT.
20 | Connect | Winter 2015
The Leadership Award
Winner: Lynn Beaver from Bath Reablement Team. Highly Commended: Cathy Daffada and Rachel Woolcomb from the South Gloucestershire Community Rehabilitation Team.
Learner of the Year
Winner: Harry Patten, from IT. Highly Commended: Georgina Clark from the Community Stroke Service.
Volunteer of the Year
Winner: Stephen Early for work with the Learning and Development Team. Highly Commended: Mr and Mrs Masud for work with the Lifetime Service.
Outstanding Contribution to the Community
Winner: Mair Bond, Community Nurse, based at Cadbury Heath. Highly Commended: Glyn Young from the Business Development Team; Viv Hollis, head of the Active Ageing Service; Emily Denham from the Learning Disabilities Service; David Parker from the Performance team.
I think they deserve it award
Winner: David Read, Yate MIU. Highly Commended: Jasmin Moon, Employment Support Co-ordinator from Midsomer Norton.
Chairman’s Award for Innovation
Winners: Alison Menzies, School Nurse; Joe Tarring and Kyler Phillips, from IT. Highly Commended: Jo Lamb and Henrietta Samler from the Speech and Language Therapy Service (adults) Team.
Outstanding Contribution to the Company
Winners: Paul Wilson, head of Mental Health Services and the Hawthorn Court Extra Care Team, community matron Jo Nutbeem (third from left), Keynsham District Nurses and the Infection Control Team.
Committed to Excellence www.bathnes.gov.uk | 21
Award for Excellence 2015
Winner: Lynn Beaver from Bath Reablement Team.
Chief Executive’s Award for Taking it Personally
Winners: Helen Harris (inset), Tissue Viability Nurse and St John’s Extra Care Team, Bath.
Winners
Winners: Stephen Early (front), winner of Volunteer of the Year for work with the Learning and Development Team, with all the winners.
22 | Connect | Winter 2015
Ways to wellbeing Want to feel better? The Wellbeing College has courses and activities to help you
I
f you would like to take some action to improve your health and wellbeing we might have just the thing for you. We offer free educational opportunities and social groups for anyone over the age of 16 who is a B&NES resident. Our aim is to give people the opportunity to look after their health by learning, being active and connecting with other people. We are a partnership of health and social care and voluntary sector providers that work to deliver these and many more courses, activities and groups in different venues in Bath, Keynsham, Midsomer Norton and Chew Valley. If you would like to find out more about your wellbeing, come to our workshop called ‘5 Ways to Wellbeing’. It is a fun, interactive session where you are helped to look at your goals, and we can signpost you to the course that fits best. Are you tempted by the thought of singing but feel anxious and don’t know where to go? This informal singing group is for you. Sing, Laugh, Live is open to all and you don’t need any prior experience of singing or music. Do you like crafts? Our Women’s Craft group meets at Julian House on Wednesday afternoons. Come and make some Christmas cards or a gift. Are you interested in how food affects
Relax with colourful Chinese silk painting your mood, or do you have a difficult relationship with food? Our courses will help you find ways to help yourself. Maybe you like drawing? Our Art for Heart’s sake is free for over-55s, and sessions are informal and friendly. Or perhaps you would prefer Chinese silk painting, a calming activity joyful in its use of colour. You don’t need any experience to be absorbed by this relaxing art form. Do you love nature? Spend time in the woods, tracking and identifying wildlife and cooking lunch over an open fire on our Woodland Wellbeing course. If you would like to improve your coordination and balance while having fun, come and learn some circus skills. Finally, if you are stuck in a rut at work, find the job you love at our one-day course: ‘What Colour is your Parachute?’. n
Find out more Have a look on our website www.
wellbeingcollege banes.co.uk and you
Learn how to make unique Christmas cards
may be inspired. No access to the internet? Book an appointment to talk things through with our advisor or just ring us on 01225 831820 for our latest course list.
Feedback from learners
Get fired up at Woodland Wellbeing ‘I really enjoyed the circus skills course. I’m becoming less shy, more outgoing in a small group and able to speak out a bit. It’s a bit like mindfulness because I can only think about what I’m doing and not about other things. It’s good exercise as well, because the better I get the more I move, especially if we’re all working together.’ (Circus Skills)
‘I was so glad I made the effort last week, even in the rain. It was an achievement. It’s really good for me to be doing something different and for myself.’ (Woodland Wellbeing)
www.bathnes.gov.uk | 23
Working together on options for a new Park & Ride Options for where a new Park & Ride facility should be located in the east of Bath will be reviewed by the Council after a public consultation revealed mixed opinions on the subject More than 4,000 respondents completed the survey
24 | Connect | Winter 2015
n Although a clear majority of respondents from Bath support the need for a Park & Ride, residents of the villages to the east of the city understandably have greater concerns about the proposals.  n The Council believes that an east of Bath Park & Ride has an important role to
play in improving transport, tackling congestion and supporting our local economy. Councillors gave serious consideration to the strong views expressed on both sides of the debate before voting on the way forward for the project.
www.bathnes.gov.uk/transport
Park & Ride site to the east of the city to improve access from that side of town and further reduce traffic into the centre. B&NES Council has released the results of its recent public consultation on plans for a new east of Bath Park & Ride.
A
t a full meeting of B&NES Council on 12 November, 2015, the Council resolved for councillors to work together on options for a Park & Ride to the east of Bath, as part of a series of measures designed to alleviate congestion in the city. A range of suggestions were put forward as part of the debate. Options for a number of sites will be reviewed and assessed by the Local Development Framework Steering Group – a cross-party group of councillors, who will present their recommendations to the Council’s Communities, Transport and Environment PDS Panel and the Cabinet. The recommendations that are reported back from the cross-party steering group will assist the Council’s Cabinet in coming to a decision in the early part of next year. Bath & North East Somerset has a long established aspiration to developing a new Park and Ride to the east of Bath. The existing Park and Ride sites are very popular with the public and have recently been expanded. But we also need an additional
A break-down of the responses reveals that: n Based on responses from those who supplied an a identifiable postcode, Bath and North East Somerset respondents were 51.5% in favour and 48.5% against the proposal to build a Park & Ride on the east side of Bath.
n More than 4,000 respondents completed the survey. The east of Bath Park & Ride is one part of a wider package of measures to address the problems of traffic in Bath. Other measures the Council is actively pursuing, as part of its wider transport strategy, include the A36/A46 link road – to remove throughtraffic out of Bath – improved public transport links through the MetroWest project, and complementary traffic measures to manage demand.
n The majority of respondents from within the City of Bath (66.2%) were in favour of a new Park & Ride to the east. n The majority of respondents from within the Bathavon North area were against the provision of a Park & Ride (74.8%). n When including those from outside BANES and those where only partial postcodes or no postcodes were given, the result was almost equally divided between those that supported a new park and ride in the east of the City (49%) and those that opposed it (51%). n Three sites were suggested for the Park & Ride. Of those who gave their views on a preferred location – 54% chose site B (west of Mill Lane), 31% identified site A (east of A4/A46 Junction) and 15% chose site F (east of Mill Lane).
Park & Ride For more information on the results of the meeting, please visit our website www. bathnes.gov.uk/ EastPandRconsultationresults
Tackling traffic problems in Bath
www.bathnes.gov.uk | 25
waste
Christmas collections Make sure you’re on top of the changes to Christmas rubbish and recycling collections
H
appy Christmas and thank you for recycling more. In 2014-15 we have recycled and treated nearly 80% of the waste we collect from your homes. We always try to keep the disruption of our recycling and rubbish collections to a minimum over the Christmas and New Year holiday period. Only those with a Friday collection will have a change this year. Please see changes in the table below. n Please note that there are NO collections on these bank holidays: Christmas Day (Friday 25 December) and New Year’s Day (Friday 1 January 2016) n Recycling and rubbish will be collected as normal on Bank Holiday Monday (28 December).
Have a great Christmas and don’t forget to recycle!
Recycling and rubbish collections Usual collection day Friday 25 December Friday 1 January
Revised collection day Saturday 2 January 2016
Garden waste and Christmas tree collections There are no garden waste collections for two weeks from Friday 25 December to Thursday 7 January 2016. Normal collections will begin from Friday 8 January 2016. To check your collection date and which week, (A or B), we collect from you please visit www.bathnes.gov.uk and enter your postcode or street name. Recycling Centres Christmas Day (25 December) Closed Boxing Day (26 December) Closed New Year’s Day (1 January 2016) Closed Bank Hol Mon 28 Dec 2015 8am – 3:45pm Winter opening times reminder November to the end of March: Monday to Friday 8am – 4.15pm Saturday 9am – 3.45pm Sunday 9am – 1pm
Christmas wrapping paper can go in the green box
Free Christmas tree collections
Please use our free collection service so that we can compost your real Christmas tree. From 8 to 29 January we will collect your real Christmas tree on our fortnightly garden waste collection. All the Christmas trees we collect will be sent for composting. You can check your collection date and which week (A or B) by entering your post code on the home screen of our website (see bottom of the page). Please: n Cut up your tree if it is more than 1.2 metres tall so that it will fit into our vehicle n Remove any decorations first, including the pot and/or the stand n Put it out for collection at the edge of your property so our crews can easily see it on your garden waste collection day.
Bad weather updates
If we experience extreme bad weather this winter, please check our website, our Facebook page www.facebook.com/ recycleforbathnes and local radio stations for the latest updates.
For tips to enjoy a greener Christmas visit our website www.bathnes.gov.uk/wasteservices 26 | Connect | Winter 2015
www.bathnes.gov.uk/wasteservices
Making food recycling easier
and North East Somerset recycled their food waste, this would provide enough electricity to power 1,139 homes for a year. And from 1 December you will be able to recycle food waste at all of our Recycling Centres – this may be useful at Christmas when we are all likely to create more waste. It may also be useful if you are worried about missing your food recycling collection when you go away on holiday.
NEW!
You can now use everyday household plastic bags for your food recycling. There’s no need to buy special compostable liners (but you can still use these, or newspaper or paper bags). Recycling technology is always changing and these plastic bags can now be separated from your food waste before it is processed.
Yes please:
✔ C arrier bags, sandwich bags, bread
bags, freezer bags and pedal bin liners (all colours except black)
No thanks:
✘ NO black bin bags of any kind (liners, bags or sacks)
✘ NO bags for life
Recycle your food waste to help you win vouchers this Christmas, see page 29
If more residents recycled their food waste it would significantly reduce the Council’s waste disposal and treatment costs, helping us to invest in other Council services. Your food waste is recycled into electricity and fertiliser. If everyone in Bath
Next Keynsham furniture sale
Saturday 30 January 2016 10 am – 12 noon Next door to Keynsham Recycling Centre, Pixash Lane, Keynsham BS31 1TP Good quality second-hand furniture on sale at bargain prices. All furniture has been brought to our Recycling Centres by residents. All items must be paid for in cash and taken away during the sale. n
Bright sparks events now confirmed…
ght Spark –
Bring your small broken or unwanted electrical items to one of the following Bright Spark electrical recycling collection days and you could win a £50 voucher.
pass on your cals
In the UK the amount of electrical waste we create in one year would fill Wembley Stadium six times. These items contain valuable materials such as plastic, gold and copper that can be recycled into new products. Working with Curo we have arranged the following collection events where you can recycle your small electricals instead of throwing them away. These events are for residents living in Curo flats who have communal bins for rubbish and recycling, and who do not have a green box recycling collection from their home.
s?
Bring any small household electrical items to the events which have any of of the following the features:. following features: n A plug Needs charging. n Batteries n Need ct Hascharging the crossed out n Have the crossed-out wheelie bin logo on it. wheelie bin logo on it. Free refreshments and freebies at all events.
Date Venue Saturday 28 November 2015 Community @ 67, Queens Road, Keynsham BS31 2NW Saturday 23 January 2016 St Andrews Church, Hawthorn Grove, Combe Down, Bath BA2 5QA Saturday 19 March 2016 Writhlington Village Hall, Manor Road, Writhlington, Radstock BA3 3NT Saturday 21 May 2016 Southdown Methodist Church, Southdown, Bath BA2 1NJ Saturday 16 July 2016 Centre Tracks, Dover House, Snow Hill, Bath BA1 6DE Saturday 24 September 2016 Southdown Methodist Church, Southdown, Bath BA2 1NJ Saturday 8 October 2016 Percy Community Centre, New King Street, Bath BA1 2BN Saturday 19 November 2016 Percy Community Centre, New King Street, Bath BA1 2BN
Find out more www.bathnes.gov.uk/brightspark Council Connect 01225 39 40 41 www.bathnes.gov.uk | 27
Waste
Love your clothes Do you throw away the clothes and textiles you don’t need any more? Somebody out there could benefit from them – or they could be recycled into something new What’s in your wardrobe?
Did you know that the average UK household owns around £4,000 worth of clothes and about 30% of it hasn’t been worn in the last year? And that we send around £140 million worth of used clothing to landfill in the UK every year – the equivalent weight of 29,000 London buses? That is why we are supporting the national Love Your Clothes campaign www.loveyourclothes.org.uk to raise awareness of the value of clothes and help you make the most of the clothes you already have. We want to encourage you to think about the way you use, buy and get rid of your unwanted clothes. The Love Your Clothes campaign’s website gives easy and practical tips and advice on how to: n make your clothes last longer n reduce the environmental impact of laundering your clothes n deal with unwanted clothes n make the most of your wardrobe.
Even if your clothes are past their best, don’t bin them
mouldy or wet material. Please put them in a plastic bag in your green box. Worn out clothes, a holey sock or a pair of ripped jeans is fine. Visit www.bathnes.gov.uk/textiles for further details.
The true cost of our clothes
By valuing our clothes we can help reduce our impact on the environment by reducing the amount of carbon, water and waste created through the manufacture, laundry and disposal of clothing, while also helping to save money and resources. Jeans are a good example – more than 10,000 litres of water go in to making a single pair of jeans (an average adult uses around 165 litres per day). When we no longer want them we can pass them on if they are still wearable – this can help reduce the carbon emissions that would be created when making new jeans. WRAP* research has shown that extending the average life of our clothes by just three months of active use, would lead to a 5-10% reduction in the carbon, water and waste used in the clothing manufacturing process.
Pass it on
If you’ve decided to get rid of some of your clothing and it is in good condition you can still pass it on by n donating it to a relative, friend or charity n using websites such as www.freecycle.org and www.ilovefreegle.org n selling it online, at a car boot sale or to a textile merchant
What happens next? You can sell your old clothes online n organising a clothes swap party with friends or go to a swishing event –and exchange it for something else for free. n and don’t forget it is important to buy used clothes too – think about the creative possibilities for upcycling them.
Past its best? Don’t bin it
Even the bobbliest of jumpers can be recycled – all clothes are valuable. You can recycle all clothes, paired shoes, accessories and household textiles using your… n weekly green box recycling collection n Recycling Centres n textile banks in your local area. We can accept items in any condition but they must be clean and dry because we can’t re-use
All the items we collect are sorted locally at Bristol Textiles Recyclers. Those in good condition will be sold in the UK or exported to countries in need of good quality clothing, such as Africa, Pakistan and Eastern Europe. Even worn out clothing that can’t be re-used will be shredded and the fibres turned into new items such as industrial rags, speakers and insulation or used to make energy from waste, so these are still valuable too.
Our campaign locally
We are delivering a new leaflet about textiles to your homes with your Christmas recycling leaflet. Over the next year we will be working to help you recycle and re-use more of your textiles by organising various activities for residents and by working in schools. Look out for details in this magazine or, for the latest updates, you can visit www.bathnes.gov.uk/textiles n *Research by WRAP Valuing our Clothes 2012
28 | Connect | Winter 2015
www.bathnes.gov.uk/wasteservices
Feed me and win! Christmas Cracker
A third of us think we are likely to waste more food at Christmas than at any other time of the year.* Christmas is a time when our good habits can go astray, but it’s those very habits of meal and menu planning, getting the portions right, storing food correctly and using up leftovers that will be needed more than ever. So how can we make the most of our Christmas foods?
The ghost of Christmas Past
Every household and family has its own Christmas food traditions, but a tradition that ends up with food and money being wasted isn’t worth keeping. Think back to last Christmas – did you end up buying and cooking food just ‘because it’s Christmas’? If people really don’t like sprouts or Christmas pudding you can save a whole load of work and money by serving food that people really want to eat. Get the portions right with the Love Food Hate Waste portion planner (visit www. lovefoodhatewaste.com), and make a shopping list – it will save you time and money.
The ghost of Christmas Present
It’s easy to serve up too much food and nibbles during the festive season. Serve it right: Find space for serving bowls on the table. If people can help themselves there is likely to be less waste on the plates, and leftovers can be used again. The same goes for party nibbles – don’t put them all out in one go but top them up as and when they are needed.
Use your food recycling bin and you could win £70
The ghost of the Future
Meals from Christmas leftovers are a favoured tradition for many. For new recipe inspiration visit the recipe finder at www. lovefoodhatewaste.com and get creative. How about roast dinner soup or Christmas pudding ice-cream? If you don’t know when you are going to eat something, freeze it. Even leftover wine and beer can be frozen in suitable containers and used to flavour casseroles, risottos and gravy. And remember to recycle the leftovers you can’t eat. Read on to find out how you can win some great prizes by recycling your food.
Win fabulous gifts worth up to £70 in December just by recycling your food
Between 8 and 23 December, Feed Me and Win will be randomly selecting one household every weekday and rewarding those who are recycling their food, so don’t forget to recycle your Christmas food waste. There are also Jackpot £100 rewards in January so now is a great time to start recycling food. www.feedmeandwin.co.uk
Feed Me and Win ends 18 March 2016. Terms and conditions apply, see website. *1 WRAP survey July 2012 sample 4148
If you need to order a food recycling bin and/or a kitchen caddy contact Council Connect 01225 39 40 41 councilconnect@bathnes.gov.uk
You can find more information on food recycling and this reward scheme on our website www.bathnes.gov.uk/feedmeandwin www.bathnes.gov.uk | 29
d Get ready for winter Winter health advice n Keep warm
Keep your home at least 18°C (65°F) if you can. This will help prevent colds, flu or more serious health conditions such as heart attacks, strokes and pneumonia.
n Eat well
Try to have regular hot meals and drinks throughout the day. Food gives you energy which helps to keep you warm.
n Get a flu jab
Flu vaccination is offered free of charge to people who are at risk, pregnant women, carers and some young children to ensure that they are protected against catching flu and developing serious complications. Have you had your flu jab yet? If not, contact your GP or local pharmacy straight away to make an appointment and get yourself protected.
d
f
Dr Elizabeth Hersch GP in Midsomer Norton “Winter conditions can be seriously bad for our health, especially for people aged 65 or over, and people with long-term conditions. We want to help protect you and those you care for so please pass this advice onto any friends or family who may be at risk this winter.”
Getting help Call 111
If you need medical help fast, but it’s not life threatening or you’re not sure where to go, a 111 adviser will assess you and direct you to the best placed service in your area. NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Calls are free from landlines and mobile phones.
Get early advice from your pharmacist
Pharmacists are highly trained healthcare experts and can offer advice on a wide range of long-term conditions and common illnesses such as coughs, colds and stomach upsets. You don’t need an appointment and many have private consultation areas, so they are a good first port of call. Your pharmacist will tell you if you need further medical attention.
Book an appointment with your GP
GPs assess, treat and manage a whole range of health problems. Your GP will arrange a referral to a hospital specialist should you need it. If you have a minor illness or injury (infection, vomiting, stomach ache) that can’t wait until your GP surgery is open then you can book an out-of-hours appointment at the Urgent Care Centre by calling 111.
Avoid Accident and Emergency
A&E
A&E departments provide vital care for life-threatening emergencies, such as loss of consciousness, suspected heart attacks, breathing difficulties, or severe bleeding that cannot be stopped. If you’re not sure it’s an emergency, call 111 for advice. www.bathnes.gov.uk | 31
Protecting vulnerable adults in your area
Your local Safeguarding Board is here to help
T
he term ‘safeguarding’ looms large in media stories about vulnerable people who have been abused or neglected. But these days, safeguarding is actually much more about prevention. Your local Safeguarding Board works with the Council, the Police and local health and social care services to prevent harm coming to vulnerable adults here in Bath and North East Somerset.
So what do we do? We aim to:
n Direct people towards safe places. The Safe Places scheme helps vulnerable people deal with difficult situations that make them feel scared or at risk while they are out and about in the community. This could be anything from being lost to losing a mobile phone. More information can be found by telephoning 01225 396000 or visiting www. avonandsomerset.police.uk/safeplaces
32 | Connect | Winter 2015
n Build confidence in trusted local suppliers and businesses. The ‘Buy with Confidence Scheme’ provides a list of local businesses that have given their commitment to trading fairly. Every business listed has undergone a series of detailed checks before being approved as a member of the scheme. More information can be found at www. buywithconfidence.gov.uk or telephone 08454 040506. n Educate people about health and safety risks. The Avon Fire and Rescue Service provide ‘Home Fire Safety Visits’ to help prevent fires. Anyone can request a free visit, which includes advice on escape routes, cooking safety and electrical safety, and night-time routines. Smoke alarms will also be fitted free of charge if needed. To find out more contact Avon Fire and rescue at www. avonfire.gov.uk/our-services/home-firesafety-visits or telephone 0117 926 2061.
n Provide practical solutions to very real problems. For example, if you need someone to help you at home with personal tasks or you are thinking about moving into a Care Home, you can find out about all the local registered providers and see their most recent inspection reports by visiting www.cqc.org.uk Our driving ambition is to make individuals more resilient, more confident and more able to look after themselves. But this is a community effort. n
Call for help If you are concerned that someone is being abused or neglected, please call Sirona Care & Health on 01225 396000.
www.bathnes.gov.uk | 33
Call: 01225 396007 Email: Council_Connect@bathnes.gov.uk
Services Directory Do you need some information about a Council-run service? Help is at hand with this useful guide... To be put through to someone who can help, call the Council switchboard on 01225 477000 or visit www.bathnes.gov.uk for further information
Council Connect n Bus Passes n Dog Warden Service n Fly Tipping n Garden Waste n Grass Cutting n Graffiti Removal nG ritting of Roads (except motorways)
n Libraries n Parks and Open Spaces nP avements and Road n n n n n n n
Maintenance Planning Enquiries Public Toilets Public Transport Recycling and Waste Road Faults and Potholes Road Safety Street Lighting
For all of the above services, contact Council Connect:
Twitter: @ccbathnes Telephone: 01225 394041 Email: councilconnect@ bathnes.gov.uk Text: 07797 806545 Monday to Friday 08.00 to 18.00 (except Wednesdays 09.30 to 18.00). Closed Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays. At other times, for emergencies or dangerous incidents only, please phone 01225 477477.
34 | Connect | Winter 2015
Aa n Adoption and Fostering Placements, recruitment of adopters and support services. The team also provides counselling for adopted adults and support in accessing birth records. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/adoption T: 01225 394949 Google Search: Bathnes Fostering
Bb n Benefits: Housing and Council Tax Support Visit a One Stop Shop in Bath, Keynsham or Midsomer Norton, or alternatively, contact a Benefits Officer by phone or email. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/benefits T: 01225 477777 Google Search: Bathnes Benefits n Birth Registration Register a birth, which occurred in the district, at the Guildhall, High Street, Bath BA1 5AW or The Hollies, High Street, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2DT. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/births T: 01225 477234 Google Search: Bathnes Births n Building Control Contact Building Control for help and advice about the building regulation process and any proposed building projects you have. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/buildingcontrol T: 01225 477517 Google Search: Bathnes Building Control
Cc n Cemeteries and Crematoriums Find out about Council-administered cemeteries when organising a funeral. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/cemeteries T: 01225 396020 Google Search: Bathnes Cemeteries n Children’s Centre Information Service The Service holds up-to-date information about all Ofsted-registered childcare, as well as information about working with children and family support. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/fis T: 01225 395343 Google Search: Bathnes Fis n Community Meals Service This service provides hot meals to those who have difficulty cooking for themselves.
W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/mealsonwheels T: 01225 394350 Google Search: Bathnes Community Meals n Council Tax Enquiries For account queries about your Council Tax bill, ranging from online payments to exemptions. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/counciltax T: 01225 477777 Google Search: Bathnes Council Tax n Curo Curo is the largest provider of affordable housing in the area and offers a range of high-quality care and support services. Contact us using the details below. W: www.curo-group.co.uk T: 01225 366000 T: 01225 366111 (repairs) T: 0300 123 2468 (anti-social behaviour) E: hello@curo-group.co.uk (enquiries) E: repairs@curo-group.co.uk (repairs)
Dd n Death Registration Register a death, which has occurred in our district, at the Guildhall, High Street, Bath BA1 5AW or at The Hollies High Street, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2DP. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/deaths T: 01225 477234 Google Search: Bathnes Deaths n Disabled Car Users (Blue Badges) The UK-wide Blue Badge scheme provides parking concessions for people with severe mobility problems. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/bluebadges T: 01225 477133 or 01225 477134 Google Search: Bathnes Blue Badges n Discovery Card Discovery Card holders receive discounts or free entry for numerous attractions in the area. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/discoverycard T: 01225 477737 Google Search: Bathnes Discovery Card
Ee n Electoral Registration and Elections For queries on voting rights or other election matters. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/elections T: 01225 477333 Google Search: Bathnes Electoral Registration
Ff n Family Information Service The Service holds up-to-date information about all Ofsted-registered childcare, as well as information about working with children and family support. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/fis T: 01225 395343 Google Search: Bathnes Fis n Fire Service, Avon Get updates on the latest news and incidents in your area and view the work we do within the community. W: www.avonfire.gov.uk T: 0117 9262061 (non-emergency)
Directory ■ RATS ■ MICE ■ FLEAS ■ WASPS ■ COCKROACHES ■ AND MANY OTHERS Contracts also undertaken • No obligation quotes
Hh n Housing Services Support and advice for all of your housing issues. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/housing T: 01225 396296 Google Search: Bathnes Housing
Jj n Jobs with the Council Up-to-date information about job vacancies, equal opportunities, employment and training initiatives. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/jobs T: 01225 396409 (24 hours) Google Search: Bathnes Jobs
Ll n Leisure Centres Bath Leisure Centre, North Parade Rd, Bath BA2 4ET W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/leisure T: 01225 486905 Google Search: Bathnes Leisure and Sport Culverhay Sports Centre, Rush Hill, Bath BA2 2QL T: 01225 486902 (office hours) T: 01225 480882 (after 5pm) Keynsham Leisure Centre, Temple Street, Keynsham BS31 1HE T: 01225 395164 South Wansdyke Sports Centre, Rackvernal Rd, Midsomer Norton BA3 2UG T: 01761 415522 n Licensing Offers a range of information regarding licensing, including alcohol, cinemas and taxis. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/licensing T: 01225 477531 Google Search: Bathnes Licensing
Mm n MOT Testing We offer vehicle MOTs to members of the public and trade for cars, taxis and some coaches. Book today! W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/bath_mot T: 01225 477314 Google Search: Bathnes MOT Testing n Museums and Art Galleries Assembly Rooms and Fashion Museum W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/museums T: 01225 477789 Google Search: Bathnes Museums Roman Baths and Pump Room T: 01225 477785 Victoria Art Gallery (closed Mondays) T: 01225 477233 Bath’s Historic Buildings (venue hire) T: 01225 477786 or 01225 477782
Nn n NHS Service, BANES Find out how to register with your local GP or NHS dentist, plus information on other key services. W: www.bathandnortheastsomersetccg.nhs.uk T: 01225 831800 E: BSCCG.information@nhs.net
Pp n Parking Services For parking queries, Park & Ride, clamping, fines, permits, Blue Badges, Pay & Display, enforcement of restrictions. Visit the website to download maps. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/parking T: 01225 477133 Google Search: Bathnes Parking n Pest Control The Council offers a comprehensive pest-control service for residents and businesses. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/pests T: 01225 396007 Google Search: Bathnes Pests n Police Service, Avon and Somerset Stay informed about what is happening in your area, with regular news updates, as well as useful information about crime reduction. W: www.avonandsomerset.police.uk T: 101 (non-emergencies)
Rr n Record Office The office holds a wealth of information and archives. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/records T: 01225 477421 (closed Mondays) Google Search: Bathnes Records
Ss n School Admissions We deal with applications and can advise about your right of appeal, as well as home-to-school transport. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/admissions T: 01225 394312 Google Search: Bathnes Schools n Sirona Care & Health Providing community health and adult social services in Bath and North East Somerset. For detailed information on the services we offer, as well as online contact forms, visit our website. W: www.sirona-cic.org.uk T: 01225 831400 n Social Services Visit the Health and Social Care pages on the website for information and advice. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/adultcare T: 01225 477000 T: 01454 615165 (out of hours emergencies about adults or children) T: 0808 800 4444 (emergency housing advice, contact the Shelter England 24-hour freephone advice line) Google Search: Bathnes Social Services
Tt n Taxi and Private Hire Cars – Complaints If you have a complaint regarding any licensed vehicle, contact the Council Licensing Enforcement Officer. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/taxis T: 01225 477689 Google Search: Bathnes Taxi Complaints
All treated by expert Pest Control Officers
n Trading Standards The Council is responsible for enforcing a range of consumer legislation including misleading advertisements and counterfeit trademarks. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/trading T: 01225 396753 Google Search: Bathnes Trading n Travel Information (Traveline) Traveline provides timetables and journey planners for bus, coach and rail services in the South West. W: www.travelinesw.com T: 0871 200 2233 (7am to 10pm - Calls cost 10p per minute from landlines) Google Search: Southwest Traveline
Yy n Youth Connect Working with young people aged 11-25 years. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/youthconnect T: 01225 396980 E: youth_service@bathnes.gov.uk Google Search: Bathnes Youth Connect
How to... Make the most of Registration Services… We now have Register Offices based at four locations across Bath and North East Somerset: n Guildhall, Bath n Royal United Hospital, Bath n Keynsham One Stop Shop n The Hollies, Midsomer Norton
Births and deaths can be registered at any of our four offices. Notice of marriage or civil partnership can be given at the Guildhall, Keynsham One Stop Shop or The Hollies. We also hold Citizenship Ceremonies for new British citizens at the Guildhall office. All services are by appointment only. To make an appointment please call 01225 477234. We also offer a range of nonstatutory ceremonies which enable people to celebrate important aspects of their lives with their family and friends. For more information please contact the Register Office: Tel: 01225 477234 Email: register_office@bathnes. gov.uk
www.bathnes.gov.uk | 35
Meet the...
Connecting Families Keyworker The Connecting Families team helps turn around the lives of vulnerable families every day. Keyworker Jamie Hall tells us about the work they do
Top facts... The Connecting Families team has successfully supported 215 families with complex needs in the Bath and North East Somerset area, and is committed to helping another 710 over the next five years
What does Connecting Families do and how did it come about?
The department was established in April 2013 and is Bath & North East Somerset Council’s response to the Government’s Troubled Families Initiative. Our job is to help and support families with complex needs to receive the services they need and to change their lives for the better.
What sort of families are you able to help?
We follow the criteria laid down by the Troubled Families Unit, and families need to meet these before they are eligible for help. We deal with families affected by anti-social behaviour and crime; families where children have not been attending school regularly; children at risk; families where adults and or young people might be out of work; domestic violence and abuse; and parents and children with a range of health issues, working towards the outcomes as stated in the Outcome Plan.
How does the team work?
We have a service manager, two team leaders, eight keyworkers, an employment support
worker, a business analyst and administrative support. Each keyworker takes the lead on a specialised area and is the link and support for the others within the team. Each of us also has a caseload of five to six families, and we work with the whole family, which could be anything from two to ten individuals. We all use the same intervention methods, such as Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, a collaborative approach to achieving change which focuses on specific goals, and can be done one-to-one or with the whole family. Following a whole family assessment, we establish their needs and draft a SMART action plan within the family.
What would a typical day be like for you?
Every day is different. You start by checking your messages and emails to alert you to any potential crises from the previous night. Then it’s off to start your visits. These could range from supporting parents with help to get their children up and ready for school, helping a family to clean their home or clear rubbish, or helping parents use different methods to manage their children. Or we could be chairing meetings with other agencies and professionals to make sure the agreed family action plan is kept on track.
Do you work closely with other departments and organisations?
As a team we work very closely with our partner agencies. We have good links with voluntary agencies, which offer our families low-level support within the action plans. We also work closely with our colleagues in Social Care, when we feel there are children being placed at risk of significant harm.
The team has received national recognition: tell me about that.
The work we are doing as part of the national initiative is in two phases. Phase One was a three-year programme where we identified 215 families in BANES with complex needs. We achieved our target eight months ahead of schedule and received recognition from central Government for that. It also allowed us to become early adopters for Phase Two, an extended programme to work with 710 families over five years.
“Being on the team helps me support families to make positive changes in their lives” 38 | Connect | Winter 2015
What is the most rewarding part of the job for you?
The job is rewarding in itself. I have worked for the local authority for a number of years and in many different roles within the children’s workforce, ranging from youth service and community safety to children’s social care working with children at risk of significant harm. Being part of the Connecting Families team allows me to use all the skills, knowledge and experience I have built up over the years, and helps me support families to make positive changes in their lives.
Do you have a favourite success story?
I was asked to work with a family where a young girl had been out of school for two years. She had previously had many other workers who had all struggled to engage her. By using the Solution-Focused Brief Therapy approach I was able to slowly build up a relationship with her and her family and support her back into full-time education, where she continues to make positive progress. Cases like that help you to feel you’re making a difference. n
Find out more For more information on how Connecting Families can help you, visit www. bathnes.gov.uk/ services/children-young-peopleand-families/connecting-families To ensure the best possible service is provided and to monitor effectiveness, the Connecting Families Team is required to share data with the Department of Communities and Local Government and the Office of National Statistics for the National Impact Study. For more information about the service, and for the data sharing guidelines please see the Council’s website www.gov.uk/government/ publications/troubled-familiesprogramme-progress-information If you wish to opt out of the National Impact study please contact Paula Bromley, Connecting Families Manager, on 01225 396931.