Chronicle Plymouth
April 2022
# PLYMOUTHTOGETHER
Gables Dogs and Cats Home appeal for help to treat broken hearted Staffie cross Hockey For details see Page 3
City College Plymouth has been awarded the prestigious Google Reference College status See Page 9
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Central & Waterfront Gym manager Adam Domyslawski has raised over £5,000 for a city charity with a 12-hour fitness challenge See Page 16
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• Cross Rhythms Experience • Dial the Experts • Useful numbers
Faye stars for Team GB
Plympton’s Faye West was the only female member of the Great Britain Wheelchair Rugby team which won a silver medal in the European Championships in France – losing to the hosts in the final by just one point • See page 3 for details Photo: Anthony Hayton
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COVID HAS NOT GONE AWAY – IT’S ON US TO STAY SAFE We have reached a stage where Government guidance has shifted away from state mandating, in favour of encouraging personal responsibility.
And while we are all keen to help Plymouth get back on its feet, the best way to do that is by being cautious. The Government announcement does not mean that COVID-19 has been eradicated from the city and there are still hundreds of people in Plymouth currently testing positive for the virus. As we move towards ‘living with COVID’ it is now incumbent on us all to make sure we take proactive steps to keep Plymouth safe and open for business. Even though vaccination has made the illness less severe is for many people, we still need to keep cases down. COVID spreads very easily and even those who are vaccinated are often finding that this is a really unpleasant illness to have. And, of course, there are people who are more likely to be seriously ill if they were to catch COVID; those people want to get their lives back on track too. We have already seen that the virus mutates easily; keeping cases down gives it less opportunity to change again. All we ask is that if you are due any of your vaccinations, please have them as soon as possible. If you are out and about supporting the local economy, please remember that the virus hasn’t gone away. You might choose not to wear a face covering in indoor crowded areas but, at the very least, please recognise that those who are wearing them are doing it for good reason. You can’t tell someone’s medical
history by looking at them, so please respect them, consider putting a mask on yourself and give people space. And, of course, if you do have symptoms, please stay at home and avoid spreading the virus to others.
WHAT ARE THE CHANGES? Self-isolation
• The legal requirement to self-isolate after a positive test has now ended, although people are advised to stay at home if they test positive. • Self-isolation payments have ended, although statutory sick pay can still be claimed for COVID-19 for a further month. • Contact tracing has ended and people will no longer be asked for the details of who they have come into contact with. • Fully vaccinated close contacts are no longer being asked to test daily for seven days. • The legal requirement for close contacts who are not fully vaccinated to self-isolate has been removed.
Testing
• Regular asymptomatic testing in schools, for teachers, parents, pupils and students, is no longer a requirement. However, as with adults, children who test positive are still advised to stay at home and avoid contact with others. • Testing will be scaled back from 1 April. Free testing (both lateral flow tests and PCR tests) will no longer be available, except for limited PCR testing for a small number of at-risk groups and social care staff. A paid-for testing service will be introduced for everyone else.
By Dr Ruth Harrell
Director of Public Health for Plymouth
How can I protect myself and others? We must remember that the end of the legal COVID-19 regulations does not mean the end of COVID itself and we must all continue to take sensible precautions to limit the spread of infection and keep others safe, particularly those who are older and those with underlying medical conditions.
This means you should: • Have the vaccination • Let fresh air in if meeting indoors, or meet outside • Consider wearing a face covering in crowded, enclosed spaces • Get tested if you have COVID-19 symptoms and stay at home if you test positive or feel unwell.
Where to get your vaccine If you need a first or second dose of your COVID-19 vaccination, or a booster, you can get one at Home Park or the Council’s mobile vaccine van.
The mobile van will be visiting the following locations: • Sunday 20 March: Honicknowle Youth Centre (11am to 5pm) • Monday 21 March: Tothill Community Centre (10am to 5pm)
HOW TO KEEP UP-TO-DATE
• Tuesday 22 March: North Prospect Library (midday to 7pm) • Thursday 24 March: Methodist Central Hall (11am to 5.30pm) • Sunday 27 March: Plymstock Library (10am to 5pm) Home Park is also offering walk-in vaccinations. Please check the website for sessions for specific age groups. Visit www.plymouthhospitals.nhs.uk/ get-tested.
You can check the latest number of COVID-19 cases in Plymouth on the Council’s website at www.plymouth.gov.uk/COVID-19. NOTE: This information was correct at the time of going to press on March 17.
April 2022
@PlymChronicle
Faye and Team GB miss out on Gold Medal by one point Plympton’s Faye West has helped the Great Britain Wheelchair Rugby team to a silver medal in the European Championships.
Faye, who has been training at the West Country Hawks Wheelchair Rugby Club since 2012, was selected as part of the 15-strong GBWR squad back in December and headed out to France to represent GB Wheelchair Rugby in the European Championships. Faye was the only woman on the team and was the only representative from West Country Hawks, who are based at Plymouth Life Centre. Commenting on her selection, Faye said: “It is a huge honour to be selected for GB, I am super excited to get stuck in and be part of an awesome squad. I can’t wait to start my rugby career at the Europeans what a competition to have a debut!” As one of the only full contact disability sports and one that is also open to men and women competing on the same team, wheelchair rugby is a must-see event at every Paralympic Games. The GB team won all their pool matches, defeating Poland, Germany and the Netherlands to reach the semi final where they comfortably beat Denmark. Having won the Paralympics Gold
Faye competing in the European Championships Photo: D-Echelard
Medal in 2020, Great Britain were favourites to win the final against host nation France. After a poor start GB fought back, but were edged out by just one point by the French. Success for GBWR has not just been at Paralympic level – the sport has enjoyed growth across its clubs, a key area of focus over the coming years. And it’s paying off. Faye was one of five new players in the GB squad all of whom had come through the GBWR Talent Pathway, demonstrating the commitment to developing the next generation of players.
Faye in action with West Country Hawks Photo: Anthony Hayton
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GBWR chair, Ed Warner said: “Our success in Tokyo has deservedly brought more attention to this amazing sport and we are intent on using this increased awareness to further build our profile, introducing wheelchair rugby to more people, supporting the sport nationally at grassroots level and building our communities. “Our mission statement is to lead, promote, grow and support wheelchair rugby for the enjoyment of all and I believe our new brand identity positions us as a world class governing body that is on a mission to set the standard in participation, performance and promotion in disability sport. “This design concept, created through a collaborative approach in consultation with our players, coaches and clubs, ensures wide ranging appeal which in itself demonstrates the unique qualities of the sport and the energy that comes from within us all.” GBWR chief executive Jason Brisbane added: “We are hugely proud of the team’s success at Paralympic level. They have truly set a standard in disability sport and led the way to victory despite the significant barriers we have faced – perfectly demonstrating that no matter the challenge, the momentum is positive. “We are very excited for the future of wheelchair rugby, celebrating both our Paralympic and community champions.”
JOB VACANCIES Find us on Facebook @PlymChronicle
Broken-hearted Hockey needs urgent treatment A four year old Staffie Cross called Hockey with a long list of medical needs has recently been taken in by Gables Dogs & Cats Home. Hockey arrived at Gables needing urgent treatment for a severe heart murmur and arrhythmia. He is believed to have a Grade 5 heart murmur and requires a 24 hour ECG and a heart scan to establish the severity of this murmur and how the arrhythmia will impact his daily life. Hockey has joint problems due to his badly bowed back legs. Without medication he is in constant pain and is unable to sit down properly. He has a cauliflower ear that requires surgery but this cannot be done yet due to his heart murmur. If that wasn’t enough he also has a chronic skin condition that needs constant management, mild incontinence and his vision is not 100% clear. Despite all this Hockey is described as ‘the sweetest, softest dog you could ever wish to meet and he loves everyone!’ This has led to the staff affectionately calling him Hockey aka Lovebug. He can often be found curled up in his bed with a soft toy in his mouth or carrying his favourite toy on a walk. Deputy manager, Ruth Rickard said: “When I heard about this poorly, young boy I just knew we
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would be able to help him. He reminded me of my first rescue dog from Gables, Shady, who was a severely malnourished Staffie Cross. Since then I have always had a soft spot for bull breeds and just had to help dear Hockey. We are determined to find the right palliative care home for this lovely boy and will fund his care for life, no matter how long that may be.” It is estimated it will cost Gables an additional £4,000 for the investigative and ongoing care that Hockey will need. Gables Dogs & Cats Home does not receive any government funding and has felt the financial strain from the pandemic, but they are determined to help Hockey aka Lovebug. To make a contribution to ‘Hockey aka Lovebug’s Vet Appeal’, please call 01752 331602 or visit www.justgiving.com/ campaign/hockeylb or www. paypal.me/gablesdogsandcats to donate online.
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Out and About Your guide to events in the local community and beyond
Send details of your event to info@ cornerstonevision.com and we will do our best to include them in Out and About. Unfortunately because of space limitations we are unable to publish details of regular meetings of groups and societies or similar organisations. La Grande Messe Mar 26 Brent Singers re-enact the music from the great ceremony of a nineteenth-century Parisian High Mass, including Louis Vierne’s Mess Sollenelle, Cesar Franck’s Panis Angelicus and a singalong version of Charles-Marie Widor’s famous Toccata! In this exciting and unusual musical event, David Davies and Ben Horden will be playing both Buckfast Abbey organs. Tickets £15 available from Buckfast Abbey website www. buckfast.org.uk/onlineshop/tickets Art Exhibition Apr 1 to 4 An art exhibition and sale of works by Plymouth Arts Club and Plymouth Watercolour Society will be held at Ford Park Cemetery Visitors Centre between 10.30am to 3.30pm each day. Cafe available and free parking. Plymouth Jazz Club Apr 3 Tribute to Brown, Silver and Hancock featuring the Neil Maya Quartet and Andy Hague at the Royal British Legion Club, Tailyour Road, Crownhill at 7.30pm. Tickets at the door only. Details from www.plymouth-jazz-club.org.uk. The Riviera Ramblers led by John Shillto on April 17; Martin Dale Quartet on May 1 and The Dart Valley Stompers on May 15. Into the Light Apr 8 An evening of uplifting music and readings with the Sir Joshua Reynolds Choir at Sherwell Church, North Hill, Plymouth at 7.30pm. Musical director Jenny George with guest artiste Ed Welch and accompanist Anne Kalas. Proceeds to St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth. Tickets £7 on the door or in advance call 01752 345390 or 880730. Exhibition Apr 12 to May 19 An exhibition entitled Artists in Residence, detailing the lives and work of some of Plymouth’s famous local artists, will be held at the Visitors Centre, Ford Park Cemetery, April 12. Open Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, weekdays 10.30am to 3.30pm (12.30pm to 3.30pm at weekends) until April 30, and then daily until May 19, 11am to 3pm. Dinomania Apr 17 Meet the award winning Youtube Rangers from Dinomania who will teach you all about dinosaurs and some prehistoric creatures. With realistic dinosaurs, loads of fossils and replicas any dinosaur enthusiast will have a roarsome time. Hosted by Plymouth YMCA in Honicknowle. Details www.dinomania.co.uk Men’s Day Out Apr 23 Loads of banter with your mates, a pasty and a beer, plus a cracking rugby match at the end! Plymouth’s biggest and best Men’s Day Out is back for 2022, St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth’s 40th anniversary year. Details www.stlukes-hospice. org.uk/mensdayout/ Spring Fayre Apr 30 St Budeaux Church Community Hall from 11am to 2.30pm. Various stalls including crafts, cards, jewellery, cakes and toys. Refreshments available including coffee, tea, cakes and pasty lunch. Admission 20p. Tables £10 Email: fayres@ st-budeaux-church.co.uk. All proceeds to to the Hall Development fund
Flavour Fest - the South West’s largest free food and drink festival is taking place from May 27 to 29 Spring Fayre Apr 30 Taking place at St Francis Church Hall, Little Dock Lane, Honicknowle. Various stalls and egg painting with the Springtime Bunny. Refreshments on sale, come along for coffee, cake and chat. Pirates Weekend Plymouth May 7 and 8 The Barbican and Sutton Harbour host a swashbuckling two days of fun inspired by the high seas. Plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy! Guided Walk May 8 The heritage team at Ford Park Cemetery are holding a guided walk in conjunction with its current exhibition Artists in Residence. Meet at the Visitors Centre at 2pm. Light refreshments will be available in the team room and there is free parking is available in the grounds. The walk is free, donations always welcome. Strictly Come Dancing - The Professionals May 19 and 20 The official tour is back for 2022 and heads for Plymouth Pavilions in May. Directed by Strictly’s creative director Jason Gilkison, the tour will feature an exciting line-up of 10 magnificent dancers and Strictly TV favourites including Australian Open Champion and 2018 finalist Dianne Buswell; two-time Ballroom and Latin World Champion Nadiya Bychkova and Professional World Mambo Champion and 2020 Strictly finalist Karen Hauer. Tickets from www. strictlytheprofessionals.com Lord Mayor’s Day May 21 This popular annual event offering lots of family fun will again be taking place in the city centre welcoming the new Lord Mayor into their role. Young Frankenstein May 25 to 28 Sounds Musical Theatre Company present Mel Brooks’ award Winning musical comedy at the newly refurbished Devonport Playhouse. The celebrated American brain surgeon grandson of the original Dr Victor Frankenstein arrives in Transylvania to inherit his grandfather’s estate - with hilarious consequences! Book tickets online at www. ticketsource.co.uk/sounds or phone 07395 159955. Shows are at 7.30pm throughout plus 2.30pm Saturday matinee. Flavour Fest May 27 to 29 Foodie fans are in for a real treat this year as Flavour Fest returns to Plymouth city centre. It’s the South West’s largest free food and drink festival, with hundreds of local producers selling tasty treats and a chef stage with regional cookery stars showcasing their skills.
The Big Jubilee Lunch June 2 to 5 The Big Jubilee Lunch is the cherry on the cake of The Queen’s Platinum celebrations happening right across the nation over th e first weekend in June. It’s all about sharing friendship, food and fun – a chance for neighbours and communities to celebrate their connections and get to know one another a little better. The Big Jubilee Lunch is a nationwide act of community friendship, with 2022 set to be a bumper year! For more information and to download a free pack go to www.thebigjubileelunch.com 1 Big Summer Jun 2 to 4 Three days of entertainment on Plymouth Hoe. Each day has been curated to appeal to a plethora of musical tastes, genres and audiences, ensuring there really is something for everyone. Details www.1bigsummer.com One Night of Neil June 4 An incredible collection of stars from London‘s West End, backed by a phenomenal nine-piece band, will bring a concert celebrating the wonderful music of Neil Diamond to Home Park Stadium. Fifty years on from Neil‚‘s legendary ‘Hot August Night‚‘ concerts in 1972, One Night of Neil is set to be an extraordinary celebration of one of the world‚‘s greatest singer-songwriters. With over 20 years of stadium concert experience, an expert team drawn from the worlds of Rock and Roll and West End theatre reproduce a stunning show worthy of the icon himself. Tickets available by calling 01752 907700. VIP packages available. Ocean City Running Festival Jun 19 Few cities can rival Plymouth’s rich seafaring heritage, its stunning waterfront and natural harbour, its vibrant cultural life and its close proximity to some of the most beautiful countryside in the UK. Thousands of runners of all ages will be making history by running in the Britain’s Ocean City Running Festival, encompassing the Half Marathon, 5K and 10K. Find out more on the Run Plymouth website at www.runplymouth.co. uk. Plymouth Armed Forces Day June 25 Armed Forces Day returns to The Hoe and promises to be bigger and better than ever, celebrating the military and all the great work they do. This family fun day, in association with Babcock, will include a wide variety of thrilling activities and displays. The main stage will host performances from local choirs and groups throughout the day, and from 6pm, a free evening concert will entertain the crowds with a fantastic range of live music for all to enjoy. You can sing-a-long and dance the night away, with the fabulous backdrop of Plymouth
Sound, with a fantastic headline act being announced soon! For more information visit www.plymoutharmedforcesday.co.uk Plymouth Model Show Jun 25 Taking place at Plymouth Guildhall from 10am to 4pm. Plymouth’s model clubs will be displaying all types of static scale models along with several traders who will be selling model kits. Other clubs from across the South West will also be taking part. There will be a large display commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Falklands conflict. Hot and cold refreshments are available during the day. Further details from Dave Watson on 01752 518287. Ball and Boe Jul 8 Two of the greatest voices in the world - Michael Ball and Alfie Box - will be performing in Central Park in July. As a duo, they have now sold over 1.5 million albums in the UK, received two Classic Brit Awards, sold out two headline arena tours and presented three ITV Specials. Tickets from www.ballandboe.com or www.ticketmaster. co.uk Paloma Faith Jul 9 Double platinum and BRIT award-winning artist Paloma Faith will embark on a huge UK summer tour, performing at some amazing outdoor venues throughout the UK, including a date in Plymouth on Saturday July 9 at Central Park. For tickets and more information go to www. premier.ticketek.co.uk Sail GP Jul 30 and 31 SailGP will host its Great Britain Sail Grand Prix in Plymouth for the second year running following a bumper event in 2021 which saw an estimated 27,500 spectators enjoy the spectacle. For full details visit SailGP.com British Firework Championships Aug 17 and 18 Look to the skies above Plymouth Sound as six top pyrotechnic companies showcase their very best work and battle to be crowned the champion, each putting on an extra special ten-minute display guarateed to leave you awestruck. Charity Black Tie Masquerade Ball Aug 27 A special event at Plymouth Guildhall to raise money for three worthy causes - the Royal British Legion, Mind Devon and Jeremiah’s Journey. The evening will feature a live band, buffet and a raffle with amazing prizes. Doors open at 7.30pm with the programme starting at 8pm and ending at midnight. Tickets for the event cost just £25 and can now be booked on Facebook by searching for Black Tie Masquerade Charity Ball.
April 2022 5
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Fiver Fest is back with tempting £5 offers in city
Plymouth shoppers and visitors are in for a treat as the Totally Locally Fiver Fest returns to the city centre until March 26.
More than 100 towns and thousands of businesses across the UK are joining together to provide a huge variety of £5 offers to highlight the contribution to the economy that local shops and businesses bring. It is also an opportunity for those businesses to say thank you to their loyal customers who have supported them through the pandemic. The Plymouth campaign is organised and promoted by the Plymouth City Centre Company and you can find out more and view all the offers on the Shop4Plymouth website. The website and its Shop4Plymouth social media channels were initially set up by the City Centre Company, Plymouth City Council and the Plymouth Waterfront Partnership in response to the COVID lockdowns. With more than 400 businesses now listed, it forms part of the #GeddonPlymouth Shop Local campaign. Steve Hughes, chief executive of the Plymouth City Centre Company, said: “This campaign is all about getting people back to our High Street to browse the shops, or come in with family and friends for a bite to eat or drink and see what they have been missing. “Since COVID, we have seen many new businesses open up, especially in the West End around Plymouth Market where we now have a real mix of international restaurants and cafes alongside our traditional shops, giving the area a real buzz.” Fiver Fest is a free to join campaign, devised and run by Totally Locally, a grass roots High Street organisation that has been helping businesses and High Streets since 2010 with incredible results. Fiver Fest is based around the now famous Totally Locally £5 message. Mr Hughes added: “Of course the big High Street chains are hugely important to our city centre and provide thousands of local jobs but if every adult in Plymouth spent just £5 a week in their local independent shops and businesses, it would mean more than £50m a year going directly into our local economy. Which can lead to more jobs, a better high street, a stronger economy & a nicer place to live.” Totally Locally founder Chris Sands said: “Over 100 towns from the North of Scotland to the South coast of England now take part in Fiver Fest events on a regular basis. Fiver Fest is about everyone working together to promote their town and high street as a whole, instead of individually. If lots of shops have great offers on, the trip to the high street is really worthwhile and fun.”
Charity Fight Night
Plymouth University student group Raise and Give host numerous entertaining and unique events in Plymouth to raise funds for three vital charities: Ocean Conservation Trust, looking after Plymouth’s marine life and coast, CoppaFeel, raising money and awareness for breast cancer research and Sense, who do amazing work with children with sensory disabilities. The group’s next event is a Live Fight Night on March 24 in Davey Main Hall at the university. It will involve local mixed martial arts and wrestling businesses and providing volunteer event opportunities to students. It is one of the first events of its kind event in the city. Tickets are just £6 available at www.upsu.com/ents/event/13325/
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City gears up with more electric vehicles Plymouth’s move to make people less reliant on private cars is going up another gear with a car club for the city’s much anticipated mobility hubs.
Plymouth City Council has awarded a contract to Co Cars, the on demand, zero and low emission car club, which has its headquarters in Exeter, and is the largest, longest running car club across the South West peninsula. Their Plymouth fleet will be all electric and people will be able to book them via the Co Cars app or online to pick up at the hubs which will be dotted across the city. With the average car only being used four per cent of the time, a car club for occasional use could be just the job for a business or leisure trip or even the weekly shop. Not only is an EV for hire a greener option, it could be miles cheaper than a car sitting outside their home costing money in MOT, tax, servicing, not to mention petrol. Other cities whic have car clubs have also noticed the decrease in the number of cars brought by students who move into the city – helping to create more space in the more congested city centre streets. The car club concept is a key part of the mobility hubs which are being planned for the city and are expected to be ready for action this time next year. Councillor Jonathan Drean, cabinet member for transport said: “The pieces are all beginning to come together. “We’ve committed to reducing carbon emissions and to greener travel as part of our Climate Emergency Action Plan, but we know that we need to make it much more attractive and easy for people to choose to go greener. “The car club is part of that and we are delighted to welcome Co Cars on board on our
The council is currently assessing the best sites for up to 50 hubs that will be located across the city. New cycle routes are also on the cards for key transport corridors, with a focus on routes used by commuters to travel to work such as the Dockyard to the City Centre and Crownhill Road. The schemes improve access to work, restart the city’s growth agenda, deliver homes, safeguard and create new jobs. It is also designed to improve air quality and reduce the city’s overall carbon emissions as a direct response to the city’s climate emergency declaration.
Councillor Jonathan Drean pictured with Mark Hodgson of Co Cars
Transforming Cities Fund: the key facts
In March 2020 Plymouth City Council received £51.2m in capital funding from the Transforming Cities Fund.
journey to making Plymouth greener.” Mark Hodgson, managing director of Co Cars said: “We are thrilled to have been awarded the Transforming Cities car club contract with Plymouth City Council. We’ve had Co Cars in the city for a number of years, but to introduce our electric fleet is a real step forward in our journey towards Net Zero. “Each Co Car removes approximately 8.5 private cars from the road which, in turn, helps reduce congestion and carbon emissions. We also enable many of our members to save hundreds of pounds when compared to owning a car. We hope the city of Plymouth loves our electric cars as much as we do.” The council recently announced a 400-strong fleet of electric bikes will be ready and available
for hire from the hubs early next year. Like the car club, the Beryl bikes will be bookable online. The hubs will also have electric vehicle charge points – 300 in total across the city. In 2021, 18.5 per cent of all new cars registered were electric. But with the average cost hovering around £44,000, for many the price is out of reach. Having EVs available for hire gives people a greener choice without breaking the bank. The mobility hubs – with their e-car clubs, e-bike hire and electric vehicle charging – are part of a massive programme in Plymouth which has been funded by the Department of Transport’s Transforming Cities Fund (TCF), which aims to change people’s travel habits by making it as easy as possible for people to choose low carbon options to get about.
This built on the £7.6m awarded in 2019 as part of Tranche 1, bringing in a total of £58.8m in additional external funding to Plymouth’s city region. The programme focuses on three key themes: • providing quality infrastructure that delivers a viable alternative to the private car and clear information to keep the traveller informed • encouraging new and innovative technology to provide cleaner transport, better access to active travel options and to manage transport demand • effective behaviour change: integrating transport measures and managing travel demand by applying policies to discourage commuting by single occupancy car
MAY TO AUGUST: May
7 and 8 Pirates Weekend Plymouth Barbican and Sutton Harbour 14 Commando Gunners’ 60th Anniversary Parade Royal Parade 21 Lord Mayor’s Day City Centre
July
9 Paloma Faith Central Park 10 Simply Red Central Park 30 and 31 Great Britain Sail Grand Prix Plymouth Sound
27 to 29 Flavour Fest City Centre
August
June
27 West End Carnival Plymouth City Centre
2 to 4 1 Big Summer Plymouth Hoe 2 to 5 The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee 19 Britain’s Ocean City Running Festival Plymouth Hoe 23 Rehabilitation Triathlon hosted by the Royal Marines Plymouth Hoe 25 Armed Forces Day Plymouth Hoe
17 and 18 British Firework Championships Plymouth Waterfront
All events subject to change. Please see visitplymouth.co.uk for the latest information.
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Charity screening to support Ukraine Plymouth Arts Cinema is joining forces with hundreds of cinemas up and down the country with a charity preview screening of Olga in support of the Ukraine.
Olga tells the story of a young female Ukranian gymnast who is forced to train in exile. It is being screened at the cinema - located in Plymouth College of Art – at 6pm on Thursday March 24. From each ticket sold a donation will be made to the Disasters Emergency Committee to support humanitarian relief in the Ukraine. The previews are a result of a partnership between 606 Distribution and the British Film Institute, with support from the UK Cinema Association. Tickets available at www.plymouthartscinema.org
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Council leader calls for people to register for Homes for Ukraine scheme
People, charities, community groups and businesses from across Plymouth can now record their interest in supporting Ukrainians fleeing the war.
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Phase one of the Government’s Homes for Ukraine scheme allows anyone in the UK to apply to host a named refugee or refugees in their home, or another property, for at least six months. Refugees could be a friend, someone you are already connected with, or it could be someone you have been linked with by a charity, faith group or other organisation. Each household housing a refugee will be offered £350 a month, tax-free. They will not be expected to provide food and living expenses but can choose to offer this. Anyone interested in offering a rentfree space in their home or a separate residence, can now register their interest online at https://homesforukraine. campaign.gov.uk/ Councillor Nick Kelly, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “The people of Ukraine are facing this unprovoked attack upon their sovereign democracy with great bravery and determination. The human cost is already staggering; lost loved ones, families torn apart and communities devastated. “It is shocking and upsetting to see people driven from their homes in fear. Plymouth stands ready to play our part in aiding their resettlement and offer our support for those fleeing conflict in their homeland. “I’m asking people across our city, who can provide a home for Ukrainians to consider being sponsors. The council is ready and waiting to support the refugees when they arrive in Plymouth.” Those offering to host a refugee will be vetted by the government and Ukrainian applicants will also undergo security checks before they are matched with a host. There will be more detailed guidance on the checks in the coming days. Luke Pollard, MP for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport, has also called on Plymouth to support refugees fleeing Ukraine by applying for the Homes for Ukraine scheme. Luke welcomed the government’s new scheme for refugees escaping the war in Ukraine, but urged the government to go further to cut red tape and delays in giving sanctuary to those fleeing war.
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8 April 2022
8 April 2022
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Fundraising efforts are praised as Keyham appeal passes £90,000
Cruise Ambassadors set to welcome visitors to the city
The fund was set up to collect money raised for the families of those killed in the tragedy of August 12 2021 alongside those injured as well as the recovery of the Keyham and Ford communities. Around 85 per cent of the money has now been distributed to the next of kin, those physically injured and wider family members, while decisions are being made on how to best to spend the remainder to benefit the local community. Council Leader Nick Kelly said: “The generosity shown by the Plymouth community over the past six months has been inspiring. From the big campaigns and events that have raised tens of thousands of pounds to the coffee mornings and car washes it really does feel as though the city has come together to support those most affected by this terrible event.” The fund does not receive any government finance and none of the donated funds are used for administration. It is also separate from such initiatives as the Keyham Community Sparks Grants as it is solely comprised of fundraising money. The fund has been overseen by the Wolseley Trust which is a not-for-profit organisation and long-term trusted partner of Plymouth City Council. An advisory committee, featuring members of the Keyham community, the Wolseley Trust and the council, is meeting monthly to govern the distribution of the funds. Committee chair Robbie Nairn said, “Our deliberations have been really straightforward because money raised has been donated as intended. If the fundraiser has said they wanted funds raised to go to the families then it has gone to the families. “The sad story of what happened in Keyham has really galvanised the general public who have put their hands in their pockets. It has been an incredible effort and, on behalf of the Keyham community, we would like to say a huge ‘thank you’.” Robbie added that if the fundraiser had not specified where the money was to be distributed then 65 per cent would go to next of kin, 10 per cent to those physically injured, 10 per cent to the victims’ wider family, and 15 per cent used for a general community reserve to benefit the area. The Plymouth Together Fund is still open in a bid to collect as much as possible for the families, survivors and community impacted by what happened in Keyham. A host of fundraising suggestions and information is available on the Plymouth Together website fundraising page. Recent success stories include more than £24,000 raised by social media group, The Plymouth Gossip Girls, and a charity event for the local business community which raised £35,000. Fundraising events coming up include Skate Together, a sponsored skating day taking place at the Plymouth Ice Rink on Friday April 22. Fundraisers will be hitting the ice for either four or six hours and to secure a spot visit www.plymouthice.co.uk. Keep up-to-date with the latest fundraising initiatives and information at www. plymouthtogether.co.uk
The city’s Cruise Ambassador Volunteers greet cruise visitors as they arrive and share information and advice about what to see and do in Plymouth. 2022 is set to be a bumper year for cruise visits to Plymouth, with nine ships confirmed so far. As a result, more volunteers are needed to help showcase all that Plymouth has to offer. Destination Plymouth and the Cruise Ambassador Volunteer held an open day on March 16 where local people with an interest and passion in Plymouth were able to find out more about what’s involved in being a representative. The day included a presentation about the cruise industry by Glen Gardner, cruise development manager for Destination Plymouth, who was appointed last year. Cruise Ambassador lead and volunteer Douglas Kerr also gave an overview about what’s involved, and attendees met other members of the volunteer team, as well as learning about different types of ships, berthing and attractions. After a successful cruise re-start in 2021 with seven cruise ships visiting following the pandemic, Plymouth will welcome a diverse range of vessels this year including: • Noble Caledonia Cruise Line’ expedition vessel Ocean Nova • The luxurious Seabourn Ovation • The classic Hebridean Princess • A second successive-year call of the German ship Vasco da Gama of Niko Cruises • The wonderfully entertaining Disney Magic • Holland America Line’s impressive Niew Rotterdam • Amadea of Phoenix Reisen Destination Plymouth, working with key city partners Associated British Ports, Cattewater
A total of £92,333 has so far been raised by generous individuals, groups and organisations for the Plymouth Together Fund.
Plymouth has pledged to get serious about cruise liners and now more volunteers are being recruited to provide a warm welcome to the visiting passengers as they step ashore.
Cruise Ambassadors ready to welcome passengers to Plymouth
Harbour Commissioners, Plymouth Waterfront Partnership and Plymouth City Centre Company, now aims to increase both the number of cruise visits and the financial and reputational benefits that come with each visit, year on year. Cruise tourism brings much needed additional revenues through passengers and crew spending on everything from visiting attractions, taking tours, buying gifts, eating in cafes and restaurants and taking boat trips. It also generates port revenues for berthing, pilotage, harbour fees and staff, creating potential new employment opportunities. Amanda Lumley, chief executive of Destination Plymouth said: “Plymouth has historically provided a warm welcome to passengers and visitors by sea even from the time of the Mayflower. We want to ensure that everyone who comes to the city feels like they have had a great experience and wants to come back and visit again. “The Cruise Ambassador team led by Douglas Kerr have been invaluable providing local
knowledge, guidance, enthusiasm and a warm welcome to visiting ships over the past few years. This is a great opportunity to join them if you are passionate about showcasing Britain’s Ocean City.”
College experience for young artists A group of nine to 11 year old young artists from Cornwall were given a wonderful opportunity to undertake a workshop working alongside professional artists and lecturers at the Plymouth College of Art.
Working within specialist photographic and dark room studios, the students led by photography lecturer Martina Rooney made a series of wonderful Cyanotypes and Chemigrams. The young students study their art after school at Rame Peninsula Art’s Young Art School in Millbrook. Their tutor is the artist and former member of staff at the Plymouth Art College, Alan Lemin. Alan, who was a school head at the Plymouth College of Art for 30 years, and was awarded a BEM for services to arts education, left the college seven years ago to set up his own small art school from his home studio. Alan said: “I speak for all of my students in
Young artists get busy at Plymouth College of Art
offering our sincere thanks to Martina, and her staff teams. Our students had a fantastic day and were so excited to be given the opportunity to work within the studios of the Art College. We also would like to thank Florence Newsome for providing a tour of the college facilities. Although young, the college has left an enormous impression on each and every student.” Alan said it was a sad reflection of present day school curriculums that primarily through budget cuts there has been a significant reduction in the teaching of art and proper art education is becoming increasingly rare. Alan said: “Our students and their parents are constantly informing me that their children experience very little when it comes to art
education at their schools. That is why they are so enthusiastic to be attending courses at Rame Peninsula Art. “My philosophy has always been to expose my students to as wide a range of arts practice as is possible in an adult way and not to treat them as young children. That is why we explore the works of professional artists from across the generations, build portfolios and make work using a vast array of mediums and techniques. I was thrilled that Martina worked with my group in the same manner.” The work of all students attending the Young Art School in Millbrook can be seen by visiting their Facebook page at Rame Peninsula Art www. facebook.com/groups/310629802396941
April 2022
@PlymChronicle
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Prestigious accolade for City College Plymouth City College Plymouth is the first college in the South West region to be awarded the prestigious Google Reference College status, which celebrates its innovative approach to digital learning.
‘Google Reference’ status is awarded for the outstanding use of technology to drive positive learning outcomes and recognises the college’s use of G Suite for Education. This is the first time a further education college in the region has received the award, joining just eight others across the UK and firmly positioning City College Plymouth as a leading further education college in the country, having embedded technology at the heart of learning. The new status means the college will act as a reference point for other education providers, sharing cutting-edge best practice and offering advice and guidance. The Google Reference status reflects the college’s dynamic approach to blended learning, as 100% of students and staff use Google Workspace for Education. The college is described as ‘Google First’ in its work and learning, with 120 staff trained as Google Educators (Level 1/2) and six staff members classed as Certified Trainers. Since becoming part of the South West Institute of Technology, which seeks to provide students and employers with the skills they need on all digital platforms to drive growth, the college has been fully committed to digital transformation, with achieving Google Reference Status a key part of supporting the city and wider region’s digital ambitions. By building new facilities and investing in cutting-edge equipment, the college has been able to develop a highly innovative
Chief executive of City College, Jackie Grubb with Paul Fanshawe, director of Business Intelligence (left) and Mark Trewin, chief digital transformation officer, joined by students and staff to celebrate becoming the first further education college in the South West to be awarded Google Reference College status
curriculum that is demand-led and supports the South West’s priority sectors, including the marine, engineering, manufacturing and digital sectors. However, the College fully recognises the power strong digital skills can offer any industry, which is why digital training is threaded throughout the entire College curriculum for the benefit of all students. Jackie Grubb, chief executive and principal of City College Plymouth, said: “We are
extremely proud to be the first Google Reference College in the South West. It firmly positions us as a college of the future, successfully embedding technology into our strategy and operations. “Google Reference status recognises our innovative work in technology and our commitment to provide students with the best opportunities to work and learn, making them better prepared for employment in the 21st century. It acknowledges the dedication
of our people and this is a real achievement for the whole team. “Our aim is to create a learning environment and organisational culture that benefits the health, wellbeing and sustainability of our community, and our focus on digital learning underpins this. “Adopting digital learning throughout the college has had a tangible impact on our students and our staff. It has allowed us to maximise technology to make people’s lives better, to keep us safe and better connected, and to be more efficient and more productive. “This is also fantastic news for the city of Plymouth and the wider area, offering enhanced digital capability and better equipping students for the world of work.” Jess Marsh, Google for Education adoption programme manager, said: “We are very pleased to welcome another amazing Google Reference College to the programme. City College Plymouth has an innovative digital strategy and is an excellent example of a successful digital transformation model.” Richard Stevens, chair of Governors at City College Plymouth, said: “This accolade is a testament to the work of our students and staff, embracing the digital landscape and taking their working environment to a higher level. “The college’s strategic intent sets out our role to provide a first-class skills and training provision and really embodies the college’s vision to be the learning destination of choice: we do this by providing a pathway for our students through excellent teaching whilst continuing to inspire them. The work of the college will lead to student success and the success of the community, the city and the region.”
10 April 2022
@PlymChronicle
Pledge to spread the word on ASB community triggers Organisations across the city are teaming up with other agencies to help spread the word about tackling anti-social behaviour.
Talented Martha’s incredible journey at Plymouth College of Art
A talented art student from Plympton is supporting young people on the course she first attended when she was just four years old.
Nineteen-year-old BA (Hons) Illustration student Martha Pengelly, supports young people to access weekend art courses at Plymouth College of Art, bringing her full circle in a journey that began when she first started attending Young Arts clubs on Saturdays at the college at the age of four. Alongside the first year of her undergraduate studies at Plymouth College of Art, Martha, acts as a paid Student Ambassador, helping out at events at the university-sector art school. One of the roles that she fulfils as a Student Ambassador is to support the Young Arts programme, which was established in 1988 to bridge the gap in arts provision for young people whose creative education might be limited by curriculum changes or limited access to resources and equipment in schools. Martha said: “I’ve been coming to Plymouth College of Art for as long as I can remember, since I was old enough to attend the Young Arts clubs that were running at the time. “Coming here gave me opportunities to try things that I wouldn’t have done at home, from printmaking and ceramics to things like photography. I was drawing regularly, but there were resources and equipment in Plymouth College of Art that I had no access to at home. Here I could practice and learn new skills. I attended Young Arts and Saturday Arts activities off and on until I was 15. “When I was old enough, I chose to come to Plymouth College of Art to study a UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Graphics, Illustration & Game Arts instead of staying at school for A-Levels. Studying in Palace Court was great, I absolutely loved it. It was such a big change from school, I cared about working hard a lot more than I had done and really enjoyed every day. It was such a good experience that staying here for my BA (Hons) Illustration degree was a natural decision. “I’m in the first year of my degree now and since I secured a role as a Student Ambassador, I get a chance to help the Saturday Arts sessions, which is weird but amazing. Every now and then it hits me that I was attending these sessions when I was their age and now I get to help run them. Knowing how happy it made me when I was their age and knowing that attending Young Arts might help them to discover what they want to do when they’re older, I love being able to support that.” From 2018 to 2020 Martha studied a UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Creative Practice: Graphics, Illustration & Game Arts at Plymouth College of Art, earning a Distinction, which is equivalent to three A*s at A-level. After initially thinking she might specialise in digital art for games, Martha has spent more time painting recently and is looking into options for illustrating children’s books, but wants to keep her options open as she experiments with new styles for future modules of her degree.
Plymouth Community Homes, Livewest Housing Association and The Guinness Partnership have joined with Plymouth City Council and Devon and Cornwall Police to sign the ASB Pledge, a commitment to support victims of anti-social behaviour by promoting and using the ‘community trigger’ process. The community trigger or an ASB case review is designed to make it easier for people affected by anti-social behaviour to get the support they need and to be listened to. The pledge was set up by ASB Help, a registered charity which provides advice and support to victims and the charity’s CEO Harvinder Saimbhi was at the signing as well as the Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, Alison Hernandez. This year there have been six trigger requests in Plymouth and the organisations signing the pledge hope to raise awareness of this process. Cabinet Member with responsibility for Community Safety, Councillor John Riley said: “We need to let people know that more can be done to tackle anti-social behaviour. “We know there are often some really complex issues involved in these cases, but that does not mean we shrug our shoulders and say it is too difficult. “Signing this pledge is a very public signal from all of us that we will do all we can to put the victim at the heart of the process and work to end the problems they are experiencing.” Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, said: “For too long victims of antisocial behaviour have sometimes been given the impression that their complaints are not taken very seriously. “Antisocial behaviour blights lives, it can escalate to the point where crimes are committed and people’s health is severely affected. When I surveyed residents of the force area tackling it was their top priority, that’s why it is a priority in
Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly pictured with Harvinder Saimbhi of ASB Help and other representatives from organisations backing the pledge
my new Police and Crime Plan, the strategy for policing for my term of office. “The community trigger is a vital tool in the armoury for victims of antisocial behaviour and I am delighted these organisations have made clear their commitment to support it for those we serve and I am able to assist people who feel let down by agencies they have reported their concerns to.” Anyone who has experienced anti-social behaviour can ask for a community trigger as long as they meet the criteria, ie they have reported an incident about the same problem to Devon and Cornwall Police, the Council, a registered social landlord or an NHS Devon Clinical Commissioning Group three or more times within six months and where further actions are available to resolve the case. They can also ask for one if they have reported an incident of anti-social behaviour, relating to same problem, to any of the above organisations twice or more times within the past six months and if at least one of the incidents involves a hate crime. The review aims to offer a fresh pair of eyes on a case. A multi-agency panel chaired
by an independent professional can make recommendations for actions to the agencies involved. Carl Brazier, director of homes and neighbourhoods for Plymouth Community Homes said: “We are serious about tackling ASB and we’re delighted to be a part of this public pledge to provide further multi-agency support for our residents living in our communities and for people across the city. It takes a lot of courage to stand up for yourself and your community, but it can make a real difference and we’re committed to doing the right thing and helping people feel safe and secure in their homes.” By signing the pledge, organisations commit to complying with the law and the spirit of the community trigger, to make sure that the triggers are part and parcel of their process and that everyone, including the most vulnerable, know what it is and how to invoke it. For more information about the community trigger or ASB review visit https://www.plymouth. gov.uk/crimepreventionandantisocialbehaviour/ antisocialbehaviourcasereviewscommunitytrigger
Makeover for Colin Campbell House on the cards The only surviving Art Deco building in the city centre could be getting a makeover as part of regeneration plans for the West End.
Colin Campbell House, in the corner of Colin Campbell Court, could be in line for some renovation under a scheme to encourage a new tenant into the building. Plymouth City Council acquired the building in 2016 as part of its long term regeneration plans for the West End. Built in 1938, the 20th Century Society described it as a unique example of interwar architecture in Plymouth city centre. In its time it has been a car show room, a Habitat store and the ground floor is currently occupied by City Furniture Store, who are relocating. The council has been working closely with NHS colleagues on an exciting new health and wellbeing centre in a section of Colin Campbell Court, which has been submitted to planners, but is also turning its attention to the location’s landmark building. A decision wassigned recently by the Leader of the Council, Councillor Nick Kelly giving the green light to allocate £760,000 into the capital programme.
He said: “I am sure many people will be as delighted as I am to see some investment into one of the few Art Deco buildings Plymouth has. “For years people have wondered about its future – well I am pleased to say it is in hand. It needs investment, but it also needs a use and we hope that work to the exterior and ground floor will enable us to secure a long-term, sustainable use.” A design, costing and schedule of work exercise has been carried out to complete works to the ground floor to improve the quality of the space. Work will focus initially on the ground floor and the exterior but it will also involve appropriate fire and acoustic separation to minimise disruption to the ground floor tenant during later redevelopment of the upper floors. The proposal also includes installing an access ramp, so a planning application will be submitted in the next few weeks. Under the Plymouth and South West Devon Joint Local Plan Colin Campbell House was referenced for retention where practical and viable to do so.
April 2022
@PlymChronicle
Triple success for Plymouth in Devon Tourism Awards Two major Plymouth events and the Tourist Information Centre have won awards at this year’s Devon Tourism Awards.
SailGP’s adrenaline-fuelled Great Britain Sail Grand Prix came top, winning the gold award in the ‘Tourism Event/Festival of the Year’ category. The Hatchling, a key event in the Mayflower 400 commemorations which saw a huge puppet dragon come to life through the streets of Plymouth before flying off across the Sound, won the silver award in the same category. Plymouth’s Tourist Information Centre, which is managed by Plymouth City Council and located on the Barbican, also won silver in the ‘Visitor Information Service of the Year’ category. Council Leader Nick Kelly said: “This is absolutely fantastic news! SailGP and The Hatchling were two of the absolute highlights of 2021, and I’m so pleased to see these epic events receive the recognition they deserve. We worked closely with SailGP and Trigger, producers of The Hatchling, to bring these events to Plymouth and maximise the opportunities they brought, which included attracting thousands of visitors and giving our local economy
a much needed boost during the pandemic. “Huge congratulations must also go to the hard-working team at the Tourist Information Centre, who also run the Mayflower Museum. They play a vital role, giving a warm welcome to tens of thousands of visitors every year and providing invaluable advice.” SailGP came to Plymouth for the first time last summer and will return on July 30 and July 31. The action packed event sees international teams – including Sir
Ben Ainslie’s Great Britain team – comprised of some of sailing’s top athletes, compete in short, intense races in high-speed, hydro foiling catamarans. SailGP chief operating officer Julien di Biase said: “It is a credit to everyone involved to win the gold award. Plymouth provided an amazing natural amphitheatre to showcase not only SailGP for the first time, but also the amazing waterfront, waters of Plymouth Sound and highlight the amazing work being done around the UK’s
Four AA Rosettes for Boringdon’s Acleaf Restaurant
first National Marine Park. We can’t wait to come back in July – to put on another great show for the fans on and off-water and continue to work with the city to ensure everyone benefits from SailGP in the local community.” Amanda Lumley, chief executive of Destination Plymouth, said: “This is testament to the quality of the tourism, hospitality and events offer we have here in the city and our world-class events and welcome team who run an exciting year round programme for visitors and locals in the city. After the Covid restrictions of the past two years, it is brilliant to be able to celebrate their success. Awards such as the Devon Awards are vital to not just celebrate success but also to really highlight the quality, experience and hard work of all involved.” The Devon Tourism Awards are now in their 12th year, celebrating excellence in the tourism industry across the entire county. The winners were announced yesterday in a virtual ceremony, with a face-toface awards celebration set to take place in May. The winners will now be considered for the regional South West Tourism Awards and for nominations into the national VisitEngland awards.
Boringdon Hall’s Acleaf Restaurant has been awarded Four AA Rosettes in recognition of the highest culinary standards it has achieved. It was one of only two establishments in the UK to receive the coveted award.
The AA announced the awards at a virtual ceremony in London at the beginning of March. Meanwhile, The Horn of Plenty near Tavistock was one of only 15 restaurants to receive Three AA Rosettes. The AA Inspector commented: “The committed team at Boringdon Hall is entirely focused on making a stay both relaxing and rewarding. The Acleaf Restaurant is the venue for accomplished cooking; menus incorporate the best quality, seasonal produce.”
Warning after theft of catalytic converters
Police have warned residents to be on their guard after a spate of catalytic converter thefts from vehicles.
There were four reported thefts in just a few days involving vehicles in the Woodford and Chaddlewood areas, as well similar such thefts reported across other areas of Plymouth. Police are advising motorists who cannot lock their vehicles away in a garage to park close to fences, walls or kerbs with the exhaust closest to these where the layout allows it. Other precautions being advised are to block high clearance vehicles with low clearance ones and avoid parking half on a pavement and half on the road as parking half on and half off raises the vehicle higher and makes it easier for the converter to be removed.
Paying Your Council Tax It’s that time of year when your council tax bill will be dropping through your letterbox. There’s no need to worry because there’s a lot of help and advice available, which can help you manage your payments. Firstly, read the bill carefully and make sure that it’s correct. Check the banding for your property and make sure it’s right by comparing it to last year’s bill or by going to the Gov.uk web page www.gov.uk/council-tax-bands. The bill is by default paid in 10 instalments. You can request to pay over 12 months to reduce the monthly outgoings and keep a monthly budget regular. The Plymouth City Council (PCC) might accept weekly or fortnightly payments, but you may need to explain the reason for the request, for example if your benefits are paid fortnightly. The easiest way to pay is by monthly direct debit as other ways of payment may take a few days to come through. If you pay by standing order, make sure you’re paying the right amount at the beginning of the financial year. It’s important that you pay your Council Tax on time, as PCC has the power to instruct bailiffs to attend your home, attach the debt to your income, apply for your bankruptcy or imprisonment, etc. Don’t ignore council tax arrears or wait for PCC to contact you as additional
0808 278 7910
charges can build up quickly. If you cannot pay your Council Tax either on time or in full, contact them immediately. They’ll go through the options with you and, hopefully, find a solution, such as a re-payment plan. Explain your financial situation and any changes to your household budget when asking for a repayment plan. Don’t ignore the problem as it won’t go away, it’ll just get worse. There is help available. If you’re on a low income or claiming benefits, you may be eligible for Council Tax Support, a scheme for people on low incomes to help them pay. In certain circumstances, you may also qualify for other discounts that can be claimed by contacting PCC or completing an online form on the council’s website: shorturl.at/eDFK6 If you don’t use a computer or find online forms difficult, there are people you can call to help you.
You’ve seen it on the television and heard on the news how much the cost of living is going up. If you’re struggling to pay, you’re not alone. Help is at hand, so please don’t hesitate to contact us, and we’ll do all we can to support you through these difficult times.
A new £150 Council Tax rebate scheme for homes in the Council Tax bands A – D will combat the rising cost of living. Some people may also apply for help with the Council Tax bill from the Exceptional Hardship Fund.
Call our AdviceLine on 0808 278 7910, visit our website: www.citizensadviceplymouth.org.uk or use Facebook Messenger to get in touch. The Citizens Advice Debt Helpline on 0800 240 4420 can advise on your
www.citizensadviceplymouth.org.uk
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options and help negotiating with the council. To discuss your Council Tax account, contact PCC online at www.plymouth.gov.uk/counciltax/ or by phone on 01752 668000.
@citizensadviceplymouth
12 April 2022
12 April 2022
@PlymChronicle
Plan submitted for new solar farm at Chelson Meadow A brand new, community-owned solar farm for Plymouth has reached another step towards reality. Having launched plans in the summer and undertaken extensive community consultation, Plymouth City Council and local charity Plymouth Energy Community (PEC), have submitted a joint planning application, to develop a new approximately 13MWh community-owned solar farm, on the old landfill site at Chelson Meadow. Generating enough energy to power 3,800 homes a year, this unique opportunity would increase the renewable energy capacity in the city significantly; improving national and local access to clean energy. This kind of initiative takes Plymouth closer to its commitment to reach carbon neutrality by 2030, playing its part in tackling climate change and defining a better path for a viable future. Being community-owned means that any profits are kept locally. As part of the process, PEC has shared information with the local community and stakeholders for feedback and this has helped shape the submitted design. This includes detailed plans to achieve measurable improvements for wildlife as well as the significant carbon savings from the project. Alistair Macpherson, chief executive of Plymouth Energy Community, said: “We are proud to deliver a proposal with Plymouth City Council
Plymouth Energy Community has already created a solar farm in Ernesettle Photo: Dom Moore
The Daffodil Family Centre team
that will deliver arguably the most significant renewable energy generation opportunity available in our city.” Councillor Maddi Bridgeman, Cabinet member for Environment and Street Scene, said: “It is great to see this project get to planning. The team have worked hard to develop a sympathetic approach based on extensive evidence. Should planning be approved, we have an opportunity here to show
Plymouth Energy Community Fact File Plymouth Energy Community (PEC) is a multi-award winning charity and a social enterprise, with a cooperative ethos.
PEC’s mission is to enable our community to create a fair, affordable, zero carbon energy system with local people at its heart. It includes a family of community led organisations with projects that: bring local people together to tackle fuel poverty and the climate crisis, increase local ownership and influence over local energy solutions; improve community confidence to engage in the zero carbon transition; and enable people to heat and power their homes affordably. Since 2013 PEC has: • Developed and generated 33 MWh of clean power from Ernesettle community solar farm and 32 roof top arrays. • Saved schools and community organisations over £800,000 from their energy bills through renewable power and energy efficiency improvements.
• Helped 30,589 households and carried out 5,298 homes visits, saving each an average of £764 per year • Saved a total of 25,254 tonnes of carbon • Grown to a turnover of £1.5m per year with a dedicated team of 24 employed staff. PEC is now working with local businesses to install new solar arrays; trailing models for community owned renewable heat, and providing a domestic energy advice and retrofit service targeted at helping the fuel poor and those with long-term health conditions. It is distributing grants to fuel poor households as part of the city’s COVID response package and has established a community led housing developer, to focus on the innovation required to deliver affordable homes in a way that is consistent with the UK’s carbon reduction targets. For more information visit the website at www.plymoutenergycommunity.com
best practice in partnership working to deliver on multiple agendas that are important to Plymouth and its residents’ The project is being delivered with support from the Rural Community Energy Fund, which is administered by the South West Energy Hub. Jon Rattenbury, programme manager for the South West Energy Hub, said: “I am pleased we are able to support PEC’s Chelson Meadow solar project through the Rural Community Energy Fund Programme. It is a great example of what community energy groups can achieve both in terms of decarbonisation as well as benefitting host communities through the reinvestment of revenues into local projects. We strongly encourage other community groups to keep an eye out for future government funding opportunities to help get their local energy projects off the ground.” More details about the project can be found at: www.plymouthenergycommunity.com/ourwork/chelson-meadow. Plymouth Energy Community have already installed a community-owned solar array at Ernesettle, saved over £800k for local schools and community organisations through rooftop solar and re-invested surplus profits into projects that help Plymouth residents reduce their energy bills and make homes more energy efficient. The proposal has received mixed reaction from the public with many positive comments on the benefits of the solar farm, but objections from others, including the Friends of Saltram Wildlife, who are concerned about the impact of the development on deer, birds and other wildlife.
Daffodil Family Centre celebrates ‘Good’ rating from Ofsted The Daffodil Family Centre, which is operated by Trevi, the leading women’s charity in Plymouth, has been awarded a ‘Good’ Ofsted Rating on its very first inspection.
The Daffodil Family Centre, which opened its doors in early 2020, is a national parenting assessment centre which offers a strengthsbased parenting assessment that aims to support the parent to identify what changes they need to make to keep their child safe. The team strives to deliver a professional, empathetic service, and one in which all their residents can have their individual needs heard and respected. This is achieved by the hard work of Daffodil’s expert team, which comprises of two social workers, a team of family support workers, and a clinical psychologist, headed up by the highly experienced service manager Margaret Bersey. Margaret said: “We are so very pleased that all the work, understanding and huge human effort that happens here at Daffodil every single day and night, to safeguard children’s futures, has been recognised by Ofsted. “Achieving a good standard throughout all aspects of the inspection shows my team’s dedication. Our top priority is always making sure the needs of the children are met for a happy, fulfilling childhood, and we will continue to put them at the Centre of all we do.” Ofsted recognised the approach that Daffodil have to their family assessments and commented, ‘the environment at the Centre is warm and welcoming. Parents spoke highly of the facilities and the support they received. The staff team is highly skilled, with many staff members having a breadth of experience in social care and associated roles.’ While undergoing assessment at Daffodil, mothers are encouraged to use the therapeutic services on offer at Trevi’s Sunflower Women’s Centre, less than a five-minute walk away. Many mothers who have come through Daffodil have continued to engage with these services. Kayleigh spent time at Daffodil with her son. Since then, she has continued to access support services at Sunflower, achieving her Peer Mentoring qualification. Kayleigh said: “I was so anxious when I went to Daffodil, but I soon realised I didn’t need to worry. The staff were so welcoming, all they wanted to do was support you to be the best parent you can be.”
April 2022
@PlymChronicle
13
Hilton to overlook Plymouth Hoe One of the world’s leading hotel brands is in line for a prime spot overlooking Plymouth Hoe.
Propiteer Hotels Limited has been selected as Plymouth City Council’s preferred developer for the former Quality Hotel. Partnering with Hilton, a leading global hospitality company, they plan to build a Hilton Garden Inn with 150 guestrooms and a skybar, offering panoramic views of The Sound. The council has agreed terms with Propiteer Hotels Limited to acquire the site which would also see 142 residential apartments built in three separate blocks. A decision authorising the sale was signed off recently and contracts have now been exchanged for the conditional sale of the site. Council Leader Nick Kelly said: “A world leading hotel brand in a prominent and historic location. This is brilliant news for Plymouth, for the city’s tourism industry and for the residents living in this part of the waterfront.” “Delivering an outcome befitting of this location has at times been challenging, but I am delighted to say that we now have a solution.” Propiteer Hotels currently have a number of construction projects ongoing across the UK, focusing on the branded hotels and residential sectors. Since 2016, Propiteer Hotels has been a strategic partner for Hilton with one of the latest hotel development projects including Hilton Garden Inn
The Hilton Garden under development in Peterborough
Peterborough City Centre, which is due to open later this year. Mike Aspinall, director of Propiteer Hotels, said: “We are delighted to be investing in Plymouth and to have secured this outstanding location. Hilton Garden Inn Plymouth marks a further collaboration with Hilton and builds on our successful partnership. We look forward to welcoming guests to enjoy the beautiful views of The Sound at what will be the finest hotel in the city.” Graham Dodd, managing director, development, UK & Ireland, Hilton, said: “Plymouth is very high on our list of strategic locations in the UK. Our aim is to shine a spotlight on Plymouth within our global network, encouraging both domestic and international visitors to this historic city.
With Propiteer Hotels being a long-term strategic partner for Hilton, we look forward to working closely with them and the council on this fantastic property.” A total of 12 companies submitted bids for the site, which has been vacant since 2016. Detailed pre-application discussions will get underway with the planning authority ahead of a planning application being formally submitted. The development work is expected to begin in late 2023. Some surface-level parking will be provided with the majority of the parking provided below ground. Upon completion, the team behind the proposals estimates creating 50 full time jobs, with up to 100 construction jobs during the building process. Background Plymouth City Council purchased the site of the former Quality Hotel in January 2016 and demolished the building, which was an eyesore. The site was marketed for development and Henley Real Estates Development selected as preferred partner. The council entered a conditional agreement to sell the site to them in December 2016. The company obtained planning permission for a mixed hotel and residential development, but were unable to progress the scheme. The planning consent expired in 2019 and the agreement came to an end.
Work starts on Sutton Harbour apartment development Work has started on a unique development of waterfront apartments overlooking Plymouth’s historic harbour and marina, offering luxury living opportunities in Britain’s Ocean City. Harbour Arch Quay will be a striking new addition to the Sutton Harbour waterfront with a limited collection of 14 two and three bed apartments, including two penthouses, enjoying views over Sutton Harbour Marina and Plymouth Sound. Alongside the ground floor entry, there is space for a commercial unit, such as a restaurant or café. The development of Harbour Arch Quay is pivotal step forward in the regeneration of Plymouth’s historic harbour front being led by Sutton Harbour Group, with further development to follow such as the much larger Sugar Quay complex. Sugar Quay, a £60 million, 21-storey landmark building on the eastern side of the harbour, will offer 170 apartments, restaurants and shops, and was recently unanimously approved backed by Plymouth City Council’s planning committee, subject to suitable provision of disabled parking being confirmed. The Harbour Arch Quay and Sugar Quay
developments will further transform the city’s famous waterfront, regenerating the longoverlooked east side, creating improvements to the public realm that will enhance this area of the harbourside and make it more accessible and welcoming for residents of Plymouth, visitors and tourists. Harbour Arch Quay will occupy space between Pinnacle Quay, home to apartments and the popular HonkyTonk Wine Library and Daisy’s Tea Rooms on the ground floor, and Salt Quay House, which is the headquarters for leading South West professional services firms such as Foot Anstey and Bishop Fleming. Philip Beinhaker, executive chairman of Sutton Harbour Group, said: “We are delighted to see work start on Harbour Arch Quay, which will offer new, high quality waterside homes in Plymouth, and continue our work to regenerate Sutton Harbour and establish Plymouth’s historic harbour as one of the finest in the UK. “We thank Cllr Kelly for
joining us to mark this occasion, and look forward to future development around Sutton Harbour further enlivening the city’s waterfront for the benefit of all who live, work and visit here.” Harbour Arch Quay will offer six two bed apartments and two three bed penthouses on eight floors, providing each apartment with corner views in three directions. Apartments will be appointed to the highest specifications and will feature floor to ceiling windows, open plan living spaces and large private terraces. For more information about Harbour Arch Quay, visit www.harbourarchquay.co.uk/
Plymouth City Council leader Nick Kelly pictured with Philip Beinhaker, executive chairman of Sutton Harbour Group
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University’s vital contribution to national and local economy Plymouth University generates almost £820m of output for the national economy and provides nearly 9,500 jobs through its economic activities and the impact of student and visitor spending, according to a new report.
The newly-published independent socio-economic report has revealed the institution also contributes £444m to national GDP (gross domestic product) and £53m in export earnings and has a profound impact on economies at all levels in the South West. The University’s social value is further highlighted by the report, including: nearly 20,000 NHS dental appointments delivered by students and staff at the Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise each year, which generate quality of life gains equating to £2.9m; and 19,000 hours per year volunteered by students at the Plymouth Law Clinics, creating a social benefit totalling nearly £1.2m. “The University is so much more than a degree-awarding seat of learning; it is a driver for economic innovation and advancement and a catalyst for social change,” said Vice-Chancellor Professor Judith Petts. “With a focus on accelerating opportunities through clean growth, advancements in health technologies and the support of coastal and rural communities alongside the abundance of marine and maritime activities and partnerships, the University is making a significant contribution to the region in support of ‘building back better’.” The report, undertaken by Viewforth Consulting, analyses the University’s impact during the 2019/20 academic year, both through its direct economic activity and that of its students, as well as secondary benefits generated through the supply chain. It found that: • the University generated £772m of output for the South West economy, including £280m from student expenditure, with 9,018 jobs dependent upon this activity • 6,233 of those jobs related to the University’s activities in Devon, with £530m of output and £305m of Gross Value Added (GVA) • In Plymouth, 5,288 jobs are generated by the University – equivalent to 4.7% of all Plymouth employment – with £443m of output and £263m of GVA • In Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, the University supported £51m of output and generated almost 600 jobs • The University’s international students were responsible for 68% of the total £35m spending of all international visitors to Plymouth in 2019. The report highlights some of the most profound areas of impact, such as the University’s work to support small and medium-sized businesses, particularly in the marine and maritime sector, and in helping the region to meet its Net Zero targets. It also focuses on its role as a catalyst for social change, such as the 255,000 hours of voluntary public engagement and public service activity that staff provide over and above their core jobs, worth around £17.6m per year. “This impact report provides compelling evidence of the transformational impact of our research, teaching and learning and civic engagement,” Professor Petts added.
14 April 2022
14 April 2022
Graffiti project is simply ACE!
@PlymChronicle
Students at a Plymouth school have been brightening up the outside of their building, taking inspiration from local street artists.
Pupils of ACE Schools Plymouth, based at Bretonside, have recently been embracing their inner graffiti artists, after seeing some amazing local work by artist collective, Plymouth Artists Together. As one young artist said: “This is alright…I would never have been allowed to do this at my old school!” Plymouth Artists Together and ACE students are planning some collaborative projects in the near future which later be visible around the city. Matt Bindon, ACE headteacher said: “We have incredibly talented young people at the schools and it is great to see them express their creativity.” ACE schools is part of Transforming Futures Trust which provides a range of education services across Devon and Cornwall.
Makeover for Mutley Plain One of Plymouth oldest shopping precincts is getting an exciting makeover.
Mutley Plain, is once again re-establishing itself as a thriving independent quarter, with numerous new businesses basing themselves along this busy road. An extensive cleaning programme has already started and the VIP treatment will include a full power wash of the pavements on both sides of the road from the Hyde Park pub, right up to North Hill. There will also be new bins, complete with recycling facilities. New seating will also be installed and the historic benches outside the Swarthmore Adult Education Centre will be temporarily removed, refurbished and then reinstalled. All of the street lighting is being improved with fairy-lighting hung between lamp posts to brighten up the night time atmosphere. Lamp post-mounted flags will also give the Plain a little more colour. New welcome signs will also be installed at either end of the Plain. Councillor Nick Kelly, Leader of Plymouth
City Council, said: “We know that local district shopping centres such as Mutley are really important to residents, local businesses and entrepreneurs looking to set up new ventures which is why we are committed to delivering important improvements like this. “Mutley is doing so well at the moment with fantastic new, locally-owned businesses
really flourishing so a little spring clean, with improved lighting and street furnishings is the very least we can do to support them.” The Mutley Plain makeover is being paid for by the EU Welcome Back fund, a pot of money available to encourage people back to their local high street following the pandemic.
year, including an armed forces veteran parade, talks, moments of remembrance, an exhibition at The Box, and other events to renew Plymouth’s long-standing partnership with the Falklands. Councillor Nick Kelly, Leader of Plymouth City Council, who is proposing the motion, said: “I am proud that our city will recognise the service and sacrifice of all those people who served their country in a conflict that saw hundreds of Britons give their lives or suffer injury. “The contribution of Plymouth during that time should be recognised. And it is right that we record our gratitude and appreciation to all those who served. Offering those veterans, the highest honour that the city can bestow will hopefully demonstrate our gratitude and appreciation. I hope that the city will join us in giving thanks and paying their respects to those who didn’t return.” Councillor Tudor Evans OBE, Leader of the opposition group at Plymouth City Council, is seconding the motion. He said: “The country owes a huge debt to the people who travelled half a world away to defend the Falklands from Argentine invasion, whether from Plymouth or based in Plymouth. The council
places its thanks to those who returned and those who were lost, to their families and comrades and for the sacrifice, bravery and loyalty shown in the heat of battle. “It is surely time, on this 40th anniversary year, to make this highest honour to the people who liberated British territory in the South Atlantic. It is also important to acknowledge the role of our Dockyard and Naval Base played in making the Task Force ready in such short order.” Lieutenant Commander Andrew Lockett, Royal Navy, Trustee and Treasurer of the South Atlantic Medal Association 1982, added: “South Atlantic medal holders express their grateful pleasure and honour to receive the Freedom of the City of Plymouth. The medal holders are proud to have returned the islands of the Falklands, South Georgia and South Sandwich, to the Crown, and to enable the occupants of those islands to enjoy the freedom, prosperity, democracy and community of their way of life. “Medal holders are also thankful for the significant support of the residents of the City of Plymouth in enabling our forces to leave for the conflict so well-prepared.”
Freedom of the City will be granted to veterans of Falklands conflict Plymouth City Council will agree a cross-party resolution next week at an extraordinary meeting of the council that proposes to grant Freedom of the City to all those who served in the Falklands as part of the 40th anniversary of the conflict. In 1982, Royal Navy, Royal Marines and Army units were deployed from Devonport and Plymouth as part of British efforts to liberate the Falkland Islands in the South Atlantic. Plymouth-based units were involved in some of the fiercest fighting in the conflict. To recognise their contribution, and remember those who served, elected members will vote on a motion at Monday’s council meeting (March 21), to grant the Freedom of the City honour to those who fought in the South Atlantic, and are recipients of the South Atlantic Medal. As is tradition, the resolution will be formally presented to a representative of the South Atlantic Medal Association SAMA(82) on June 25. This is part of a wider programme of activities that are being organised across the city to mark the anniversary later this
Volunteer Shannon awarded Maureen Attrill Bursary
A volunteer has secured a special research bursary awarded by The Box each year in memory of a former longserving curator.
Shannon Lewis has been volunteering at The Box one day a week since the middle of 2021. She’s also an Art History PhD student at the University of Plymouth where she’s specialising in gender studies. She applied for the bursary to help with the ongoing development of her research skills and to contribute information about a painting she’s selected for the public. Maureen Attrill was in charge of the art collections at the City Museum and Art Gallery for more than 30 years before she passed away suddenly in February 2011. She was hugely committed to developing Plymouth’s art collections; regularly acquiring new works and curating a number of popular exhibitions throughout her career. Thanks to the generosity of Maureen’s family, an annual bursary was established after her death. It provides university and Open University students, museum staff, freelance researchers and University of the Third Age members from across the South West with an opportunity to carry out a research project linked to the city’s art collections. Previous recipients have explored Plymouth’s post-war art, the connections between Plymouth and Bristol Porcelain and the wider story of the British Empire and the city’s historically important Cottonian Collection. Shannon’s research will focus on an oil painting dating from the early 1900s titled ‘Mrs E.B. Guard, The First Lady Doctor of Music’ by Edith Morris. Shannon will be aiming to uncover more information about both the sitter and the artist. She will also analyse the symbolism of many of the items that appear in the painting. Shannon said: “Although the title of the painting claims that E.B. Guard is the first woman to have received a doctorate in music, we know very little about her. It’s a shame that her remarkable achievements and the skill of the artist who painted her have been forgotten, and my research will explore and highlight the contribution they both made.” Emma Philip, senior curator at The Box, said: “We were really impressed with Shannon’s proposal which taps into a number of timely themes around the role of women in society. Her research will add to our knowledge about two successful Plymouth women who, because of the time they lived in, may have been overlooked. It will also shed more light on an artwork we currently have very little information about.” Once she’s completed her project, Shannon’s research will be used to enhance The Box’s collections catalogue. She will also produce an article that will be shared on The Box’s blog and offered the chance to present her findings as part of its events programme. Applications for the Maureen Attrill Bursary will open again in October 2022. Details at www.theboxplymouth.com/research/maureenattrill-bursary.
April 2022
@PlymChronicle
15
Adam joins cycling and cancer with new charity premises A new charity premises in Plymouth will see the joining of cycling and cancer for the first time, as a local mechanic, Adam Froggatt, opens The Bike Network.
At 32 years old, Adam, who himself received a bowel cancer diagnosis in 2017, only two weeks after his first baby’s arrival, is keen to make the connection between cycling and cancer, to help those affected combat the effects on mental and physical wellbeing. The founder of The Bike Network shared how his diagnosis and experience promoted him to pursue cycling. He said: “After a colonoscopy, the doctor apologised and told me I had bowel cancer. My wife had to leave our twoweek-old son at his grandparent’s and pick me up from the hospital. It was not the introduction to motherhood that she had planned. “I know first-hand the physical and mental impact that cancer can have on you during and after treatment. I bought a bike during my chemotherapy treatment to help with my physical condition and never looked back. “It is a recognised fact that eating well and keeping fit can improve the outcome of treatment. Cycling is an accessible way to get outdoors, do exercise at a low cost with a low risk of injury compared to other sports such as running.”
Having discovered cycling for himself, Adam was keen to share his experience and lend his support to others affected by the disease. “In the lockdown of 2020, I studied for my bike mechanic qualification. As a former manager of the BMW garage, I had a grounding in mechanics. The Bike Network’s success is the only reason I gave up my job. I was finding there were not enough hours in the day.” From humble beginnings of working on bikes at home and above his uncle’s shop, the success of his idea and sheer demand has pushed the founder to open his own premises. Adam said: “None of the events that have happened until now have been planned. I have done more after cancer than I have ever done before.” “To date, I have delivered over 270 bikes to people affected by cancer. I have despatched one as far as Scotland. The idea with the premises is to continue doing my vital work of refurbishing and fitting people with bikes. “However, I also offer bike servicing to help fund the charity’s work. We also sell parts, much of which are donations from the public and our supporters. Additionally, Macmillan Cancer Support provided a support grant to help me fund the premises.” Speaking about the initiative,
Di Charlton, engagement lead at Macmillan Cancer Support said: “Adam’s efforts have been nothing short of incredible. The support that Adam has been able to provide for people affected by cancer’s physical wellbeing is invaluable. “We are so pleased that Macmillan could show their support with a support grant and look forward to seeing where he goes next with his ideas.” Adam added, the benefits stretched far beyond those of people affected by cancer. He said: “The Bike Network is also great for the environment because it is sustainable. If you are looking to buy a bike brand new there can be upwards of a nine-month waiting list now because of COVID. An estimated 15 million bikes are discarded every year throughout the world so we can help the planet whilst supporting those people affected by this awful disease. “Servicing is cheaper at our HQ and every penny you spend with us goes back to supporting those in need.” The new premises at Langage Business Park in Plympton were officially opened by the Lord Mayor of Plymouth Councillor Terri Beer on March 1. To find out more or book your bike in for a service, click here, https:// thebikenetwork.org/
Cycling has played a big part in Adam’s recovery from cancer
Lions Club show appreciation of South West Blood Bikes The Lions Club of Plymouth have recently made a donation of £500 to South West Blood Bikes in recognition of the invaluable work of the charity in Plymouth and the South West.
Interior and exterior views of the new Bike Network premises at Langage Business Park
Police make 46 arrests in drugs crackdown Devon and Cornwall Police arrested 46 people in a two-day crackdown targeting alleged drugs-related activities in Plymouth.
Devon and Cornwall officers worked alongside colleagues from Merseyside, supported by the South West Regional Organised Crime Unit (SW ROCU), as part of the operation, which took place on March 1 and 2. Eight men and one woman were charged with a range of offences, including possession of drugs, dangerous driving, driving whilst unfit and assault. Thirty-seven people were arrested on suspicion of a range of offences including possession of drugs, being concerned in the supply of drugs, dangerous driving, money laundering and being in possession of offensive weapons. Of those arrested, three people were issued with cautions, and others were released under investigation or police bail, pending further enquiries. A number of those arrested were from the Plymouth area but others were from outside the area, including from Merseyside.
Lions Club President Jeff Horgan presents the cheque to Mark Bentley, chair of South West Blood Bikes
South West Blood Bikes volunteers ferry blood and other important and critical information between hospitals and hospices without government financial support and are dependent entirely on donations made from individuals, clubs and events raising in order to be able to carry out their dedicated work. Mark Bentley, chairman of South West Blood Bikes said: “We are massively grateful to Plymouth Lions Club for their support. The support of groups and individuals is invaluable to us as we make no charge for our services. People supporting our charity can rest assured that every single penny donated is spent on providing our free service to the NHS and hospices – as we have no paid staff. Everything we do is performed by our team of 42 volunteers across the county.” South West Blood Bikes can be contacted at Bounds House, Millbay Road, Plymouth PL1 3LS on 0300 365 2025 or via their Facebook Page South West Blood Bikes.
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To find out more about the college and our upcoming welcome events for new students joining this September, please visit www.scottcollege.co.uk/joinus
16 April 2022
16 April 2022
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Gym manager Adam raises £5000 for city charity in 12-hour fitness challenge A Plymouth gym manager has raised over £5,000 for a local charity after completing a non-stop 12-hour fitness challenge.
Jess Strain
Jess has designs on fashioning business success
Talented textile designer Jess Strain has combined sustainable fashion with digital design and fabrication skills in her new startup, Ovrbloom, with the support of Plymouth College of Art’s Smart Citizens Programme.
Since taking part in the programme, Jess has received a Bronze Creative Conscience Textiles Award and the Young Innovators Grant from Innovate UK and The Prince’s Trust, supporting the development of her business. Jess, who was born in Ivybridge, set her sights on the world of fashion from a young age. Her passion grew as she attended Plymouth College of Art’s Saturday Arts Club between the ages of 12 and 15, before pursuing an art foundation course and graduated with a First Class Honours in Textiles: Innovation and Design from Loughborough University. The seed for Ovrbloom was first planted in Jess’ final year of university, when she began researching the impact of fabric and textiles on people and the planet. Jess said: “I knew as soon as I’d graduated that I wanted to create a business that made a real impact on the world of fashion. Becoming ever more aware of the climate crisis has only heightened the industry’s awareness of the need for disruptive textile design. This is where the idea for my business, Ovrbloom, spawned.” Ovrbloom is a sustainable accessory brand creating textile accessories and soft furnishings which are naturally dyed and created using waste material. Ovrbloom looks to disrupt the fashion industry with transparent reporting about the manufacturing process for every single product. Looking to develop skills in 3D design and fabrication, Jess first discovered the Smart Citizens Programme at Plymouth College of Art whilst working as an artist-in-residence at Totnes Art and Design Foundation Course. Jess signed up to the Smart Citizens’ free ‘Design and Make’ training, hosted by Fab Lab Plymouth, where she learned how to produce 3D models using the CAD software, Autodesk Fusion 360, and gained hands-on experience with 3D printers and laser cutters. Using these new skills, Jess designed and 3D-printed a paper press to imprint Ovrbloom’s logo onto product labels, and laser cut her own logo cards. The Smart Citizens Programme is designed to support local people to develop their skills in digital design and fabrication, and grow their careers and businesses. More about the Smart Citizens Programme can be found at www.fablabplymouth.org Jess said: “I absolutely would recommend the Smart Citizens Programme to everyone; I think it’s a great programme for anyone from hobbyists to freelancers and entrepreneurs. The level of tuition is absolutely incredible and I had such a great time learning new skills that will enhance my branding and business.”
Gym manager Adam Domyslawski, from Club Continental in Plymouth, raised £5182 for local charity Friends and Families. The money raised will help provide valuable support and activities that are a lifeline to many families with disabled children. During the challenge, Adam cycled 102km, skied 68km, rowed 34km and lifted an incredible 35 tonnes in deadlifts – only to stop for quick comfort breaks! Jan Burns, fundraising and partnerships lead at Friends and Families, said: “We cannot thank Adam enough for his amazing fundraising effort. The money raised will pay for six months of activities that will give families space to relax, have fun, and make friends. “The pandemic has hit families with disabled children hard - with many feeling isolated and exhausted having had little respite for over two years. Adam’s challenge is very timely as there has never been a better moment to support our families.” Adam said: “I wanted to give back to Friends and Families after seeing the amazing
Adam Domyslawski presents Jan Burns with the bumper cheque
support the charity gave to my friend’s family. The services and activities make a big difference to families with disabled children who often face things alone. It has been my absolute pleasure to raise enough money to help other families benefit.” Friends and Families supports and
empowers families with disabled children in Plymouth and the surrounding area. The charity provides practical advice, support and fun activities to children with a disability and their families. For more details visit www. friendsandfamilies.org.uk
City College students to get hands-on experience at Flavour Festival in May Students at City College Plymouth will be getting valuable hands-on experience at this year’s Flavour Fest, as the college signs up to be an official partner of the festival.
College students from a variety of different courses will be given an opportunity to work at the festival which takes place in Plymouth city centre from May 27 to 29. Flavour Fest is the South West’s largest free food and drink festival and returns this year for the first time since 2019, due to the pandemic. A chef lecturer from City College Plymouth will host a demonstration on the Chef Stage focusing on healthy eating on a budget, whilst professional cookery students will be assisting behind-the-scenes, helping to prep food and equipment for demonstrations. The college will also have its own stall, serving up a number of delicious and nutritious dishes. As one of the city’s biggest events, Flavour Fest offers lots of opportunities for students from other academic areas to get involved too. Business students will support with event management, the carpentry team will be building bespoke directional signage and music and dance courses will provide live entertainment throughout the weekend. One 20 Digital, City College Plymouth’s in-house media production company, which helps students to develop professional portfolios, will help with the event marketing by producing video content and hosting an Instagram takeover on the official Flavour Fest account. Executive of health & lifestyle professions, Karen Dorow said: “Work experience is such an important aspect of the training we provide at City College Plymouth. We want our students to receive a variety of different opportunities and experiences to help them make informed decisions about their futures and to give them the best possible chance of achieving their goals. “Flavour Fest is such a brilliant event for
The City College Plymouth stand at a previous Flavour Fest and (below) City College staff in the Cookery Theatre
the city, showcasing the incredible array of restaurants and eateries that Plymouth has to offer. For a long time Plymouth has been referred to as the food-lovers’ best-kept secret, but now it’s time to start putting Plymouth on the global stage where it belongs. We are delighted to be part of this event.” Steve Hughes, chief executive of Plymouth City Centre Company which runs the event, said: “We’re delighted to welcome City
College Plymouth on board as a sponsor for this year’s Flavour Fest and are really pleased that we can offer their students some unique, hands-on work experience. “As the largest event we host, the festival is incredibly important to us. Not only is it a brilliant weekend celebrating the region’s very best food and drink, it also encourages thousands of people to visit our vibrant city centre. We look forward to seeing everyone there in May, and hope they’ll take the time to look around, exploring the shops and eateries on offer.” The festival will be hosted in a different format this year with one huge marquee covering the Piazza on Armada Way where visitors will find stallholders selling some of the region’s best produce as well as the main festival bar. For more information about Flavour Fest, please see www.flavourfestsw.co.uk.
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Plymouth’s adult education and skills service receives ‘Good’ rating from Ofsted Staff at Plymouth City Council’s Adult Education and Skills provision, delivered by On Course South West and sub contracted providers, are celebrating their latest Ofsted inspection result after inspectors judged them to be ‘good’ across the board.
The improvements that had been made since the last inspection in 2019 which judged them as ‘requires improvement’, particularly impressed Ofsted inspectors, who said ‘Learners receive high-quality and effective support that helps them overcome their barriers to being in education.’ Inspectors praised the provision stating that ‘learners improve their prospects for employment, further education or personal fulfilment as a result of the courses they complete because staff understand how to help the communities they serve and focus on the people most in need of the courses they teach.’ The report which judged the adult learning provision as ‘good’ across all areas, said that learners were highly complimentary about how their training and education had a positive impact on them, it also highlighted a number of key strengths including: Learners receive high-quality and effective support that helps them overcome their barriers to being in education. Leaders work closely with agencies such as Job Centre Plus, housing associations, the probation service and community groups to offer learners the specialist support that many need. Staff in the training and community centres used for hosting courses are welcoming and well-practised in how to gain the confidence of people who are anxious about starting a course. Teachers plan and teach a curriculum that develops learners’ skills and knowledge over time and identify what learners already know when they start their course, and any gaps they have in their prior knowledge. Councillor Dave Downie, Plymouth City Council’s Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Transformation said “We are absolutely delighted that inspectors have recognised all the hard work of staff at On Course South West and our partner organisations. “However we don’t intend to rest on our laurels and remain committed to offering a range of high-quality courses to meet the changing needs of Plymouth’s adult learners and young people. I would also like to thank staff who work tirelessly to support learners to ensure they can enjoy the best quality teaching and advice.”On Course South West CIC (Community Interest Company) was transferred back to the council two years ago, ensuring the city was able to continue to provide courses that help learners to develop skills, gain qualifications and entry to employment.The report reflected that ‘Leaders had dealt with the concerns raised in previous inspections and had raised the standards of the courses, established effective governance and managed the return of OCSW to the council well.’ Ofsted inspectors visited On Course South West in January and collected a wide range of evidence to inform judgements including visiting learning sessions, scrutinising learners’ work, seeking the views of learners, staff and other stakeholders and examining the provider’s documentation and records.
April 2022
17
Tribute to Plymouth woman who led way for local sight loss group The husband of a ‘much-loved’ lady who helped to set up a local support group for people living with a devastating sight condition, has paid tribute to his late wife.
Margaret and Ken Bird established the Macular Society Support Group from their Plymouth home in the late nineties, with Margaret volunteering as its group leader. After about 10 years she stepped down from her role in the group, but the pair remained enthusiastic and involved members. Sadly, Margaret passed away peacefully at the Wisteria House Care Home in Plymstock aged 90 in December. Ken said: “I have received many messages of support and condolence both from the group and from the Plymouth Visually Impaired Bowls Club of which we were two of the founder members. Within both groups Margaret was hugely respected, very popular and loved dearly.” Leading sight loss charity, the Macular Society, with the help of volunteers, runs more than 400 groups across the UK, which aim to offer information, encouragement and friendship to people who are affected by macular disease and other sight loss conditions. Macular disease is the UK’s biggest cause of sight loss. Nearly 1.5 million people are currently affected and many more are at risk. The disease can have a devastating effect on people’s lives, leaving them unable to drive, read or see faces. Many people affected describe losing their sight as being similar to bereavement. There is still no cure and most types of the disease are not treatable. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common form of macular disease, affecting more than 600,000 people, usually over the age of 50. Margaret and Ken moved to Plymouth in 1986 after Ken retired from the civil service in London. Margaret was a former teacher and athletics coach. The pair suffered from sight loss themselves, with Margaret diagnosed with dry AMD, for which there is currently no treatment. She was registered blind in 2005. The idea to run the group came to them during a trip to London to attend the Macular Society’s annual conference.
Margaret Bird...hugely respected and loved dearly
Ken said: “We wanted to learn more about AMD from the speakers at the event. During an interval we were talking to one of the staff and they asked if we could set up a support network in Plymouth. Even while I was just thinking about it, Margaret said ‘yes’ and that’s how it all began. “For the first year or two we ran the group from our house with just a handful of members. We lived at the top of a steep hill at Plymstock so I would drive down the hill to pick people up from a nearby bus stop. “Eventually we decided we needed to take a chance and hire a city centre location. Happily, our gamble paid off and with Margaret as leader we expanded to around 40 members. “Very few people knew about macular degeneration in the early years. Our meetings became a forum for passing on information and experience. For visiting speakers Margaret called on a hospital optometrist, who provided advice about eyesight, and representatives of utility and equipment companies. From them we learned of the help they could provide and the aids
which could be purchased. As the years went on, Margaret felt able to bring in speakers to provide entertainment as well as those who could help with day-to-day, practical tips.” Ken, who himself has been treasurer and secretary of the Plymouth Macular Group, remembered fondly how his wife had it in her nature to always support others. He said: “I think for Margaret it was all about helping other people, especially at a time when they were starved of information. There wasn’t as much guidance then as there is now and knowledge of macular degeneration was poor. She wanted people to understand their diagnosis and not feel devastated by it. Clearly, her destiny was always to be an enabler, helping other people to progress. That stayed with her all her life.” The Macular Society Plymouth Support Group meets on the first Wednesday of the month at the Lower Hall of Abbey Hall, behind St Andrew’s Church (1.45pm-4pm). To join or find out more, please phone the Macular Society Groups Admin team on 01264 560 259.
COUNCIL DELIVERS ON PARKING COMMITMENTS
A range of new measures to improve the parking arrangements in Plymouth for residents and visitors are the latest council commitments to be delivered.
These include: • Introduced an initial eight motorhome parking bays as part of a trial within the Coypool Park and Ride Car Park. These new motorhome bays will encourage greater use of the Continental Ferry service providing parking for those seeking a
stopover for those embarking or disembarking • Free parking over the first weekend in April at the Western Approach car park. Shoppers and Visitors will be able to have four hours free parking on both April 2 and April 3 • Delivering an additional eight parking bays in Dingle Road/Halcyon Road and a further 70 spaces for parking along Elburton Road by making use of underutilised road space to create parking on Dingle Road/Halcyon Road and then
reconfiguring the road layout on Elburton Road to safely introduce parking spaces The council is continuing to deliver additional support to blue badge holders by doubling the available parking available on the Hoe Promenade from 15 to 30. This means that, following recent improvement works at Devil’s Point and Mutley Barracks car parks, an additional 26 disabled parking spaces have been delivered, increasing disabled parking in the city from 260 to 286.
is disruption to its highway maintenance programme which ranges from gully cleansing to resurfacing roads. Despite these works being subject to traffic orders, prohibiting parking some motorists ignore these orders which has a significant impact on the delivery of these works. Similarly, as the city prepares to deliver a programme of world class events, risks remain that vehicles parked in contravention to traffic orders for authorised events may
adversely affect events and/or cause security concerns. The new powers also mean the council can remove any vehicle that is preventing or restricting works or authorised events. Councillor Drean said: “We made a commitment to step up parking enforcement in the city and these new proposals will help us to keep Plymouth’s roads safe by providing greater powers to address hazards and obstructions caused by a small minority of inconsiderate motorists. “This will greatly help us to ensure motorists do not accrue unpaid or unchallenged parking fines going forward, whilst helping us seek to recover unpaid and unchallenged fines where recovery has not been possible due to registered keepers not updating registered keeper records. I’m delighted that we have these new powers and I hope that those who do flout the law see this as a warning that we won’t hesitate to seize their vehicles.”
...AND GETS TOUGH ON PERSISTENT OFFENDERS Plymouth City Council is getting tough on persistent parking offenders.
Cabinet Member for Transport Councillor Jonathon Drean has signed an Executive Decision that gives the council new powers to immobilise and remove the vehicles of persistent evaders and those parked preventing or restricting works or authorised events The Department for Transport defines a ‘persistent evader’ as a vehicle that has three or more Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) unpaid and unchallenged. There are currently 692 vehicles in Plymouth classed as ‘persistent evaders’ with a total of 4,702 outstanding PCNs. Under the new proposals the council will be able to remove the vehicle to a secure compound and hold it until a release fee is paid. Vehicle owners will be required to pay a release fee and storage fees which are all set by legislation. Another issue the council currently face
18 April 2022
18 April 2022
Plymouth Sound National Marine Park: Year-long programme of activities planned including free event for city residents at National Marine Aquarium
A 12-month programme of activities and engagement has been announced as part of the Plymouth Sound National Marine Park project.
One of the main highlights include the official launch of the activity programme with the National Marine Park Open Weekend – an exclusive free event for Plymouth residents at the National Marine Aquarium taking place from April 1 to 3. Others include: • ‘Sea in the Park’ – bringing the wonders of the NMP to green spaces across the city • ‘Give it a Go’ – get on, in, under and next to the Sound through a programme giving Plymouth people the opportunity to try out what the NMP can offer for free • Want to get more involved - a pilot programme of National Marine Park Rangers, volunteers and environmental ambassadors running throughout the year • Designing a ‘digital park in the sea’ – innovation labs will run to generate and test idea that could virtually uncover the treasures under the waves. The year-long programme has been designed to not only enable people to have fun and explore but also for residents to be able to have their say and shape the NMP, which is being made possible thanks to £9.5 million funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Council Leader Nick Kelly said: “We’re so excited to be sharing more details of the activity planned for the Plymouth Sound National Marine Park during 2022 and into next year. “The park aims to improve access to Plymouth’s natural and maritime heritage to ensure that all our citizens can enjoy the significant benefits that being on, in, under and next to the water provides. “By increasing community connection with the natural environment, we aim to improve engagement with sustainability and ocean protection, improve the health, wellbeing and resilience of our community and boost the blue economy. “It’s incredibly important to us that everyone in Plymouth has the chance to get involved and have their say about what the park means to them. That’s
why we’re so excited to today be announcing our first National Marine Park event, an open weekend exclusively for Plymouth residents to find out all about what the National Marine Park has to offer and to start to feedback and shape the future plans for delivery.” Roger Maslin, CEO of the Ocean Conservation Trust, said: “We are proud to partner on the UK’s first ever National Marine Park. We truly understand the importance of protecting vital ocean habitats and believe connecting people with the Ocean is key to this. We are delighted to welcome communities and organisations from across the City to the National Marine Aquarium for the weekend to help celebrate the Plymouth Sound National Marine Park.” The National Marine Park Open Weekend is just the first in an exciting line-up of events and activity that will be taking place throughout the year as part of the activity plan announced today. The activity programme has been created by the NMP Horizon project partners to provide loads of different ways for Plymouth residents to give feedback, engage in activities, learn more about the Park and help design what comes next. Plenty of online activity will take place too. This includes the introduction of brand new webcams which will be viewable through the NMP’s website and give a unique insight into the Park. Councillor Tudor Evans OBE, Leader of the Opposition, added: “The year of activity planned for the Plymouth Sound National Marine Park offers a unique chance for us to come together and shape the city’s future. Ultimately the Park will bring new opportunities in the forms of entertainment, employment, environment and enterprise, so it’s really important that we maximise this and that everyone has their say.” The Plymouth Sound National Marine Park Horizons Project has been made possible thanks to money raised by National Lottery players with £9.5 million of funding from the Heritage Fund. For more about the NMP and to see the latest updates go to www.plymouthsoundnationalmarinepark.com
You can help to save lives! www.daat.org Registered Charity No: 1077998
@PlymChronicle
Couple to tackle Drake’s Trail to raise funds for Devon Freewheelers Two blood bike volunteers from Plymouth are gearing up to tackle the 21-mile Drake’s Trail in aid of the Devon Freewheelers are appealing for help from businesses and sponsors.
Married couple Devon Freewheelers’ volunteers Anthony and Amy Ewens, and a group of more than 17 charity supporters, will on April 17, walk the whole of Drake’s Trail, from the Barbican to Tavistock, setting off at 8am. The couple are appealing for help transporting the walkers from the Mountbatten meet point to the Barbican walk start, donations of small water bottles, and event and tee-shirt sponsorship. Entry to take part in the event is £5, and can be paid on the day, or in advance through the Devon Freewheelers website, quoting reference: Drake’s Trail. Submariner Anthony, aged 32, a Devon Freewheelers Blood Biker for two years, also serving the Plymouth area, said: “You never know when you might need the blood bike service. By coming along and taking part, every step will help keep the blood bikes on the road.” The Royal Navy Field Gunner added: “As well as raising funds for the Devon Freewheelers, the walk aims to boost people’s mental health and wellbeing because you get to spend time outdoors and see the Drake’s Trail and all its history and landmarks. Along the way you can download audio for all the routes.”
Anthony and Amy Ewens
Amy, aged 28, a Devon Freewheelers volunteer blood car driver for almost two years in the Plymouth area, is appealing for help with transport, such as a minibus or coach, to pick walkers up from Mountbatten to take them to the Barbican ready to set off. She said: “I am looking forward to walking the trail and taking along our dog, Maddy, as well as exploring the area that we are active in as Devon Freewheelers volunteers. “The plan is to walk along the whole trail and catch the last ferry back to Mountbatten.” She added: “We would really like to hear from any companies or businesses willing to donate water bottles so we don’t have to carry five litres with us.” Russell Roe, Devon Freewheelers CEO, said: “Anthony and Amy already do so much for the charity, giving up their time to volunteer and fundraise, so we are in awe of their latest challenge to help the keep blood bikes service on the road. “We cannot operate without fundraising, and our volunteers, so we are indebted to our supporters. We call them our hidden heroes. “I would like to thank Anthony and Amy for organising the Drakes Trail walk in aid of the charity, and for raising awareness of the Devon Freewheelers blood bike service, which supports the NHS for free across the South West.” To sponsor the event, or help with transport or water, email info@ devonfreewheelers.org.uk
Building strong grassroots organisations, charities, and social enterprises in Plymouth
POP Collectives bring Plymouth’s grassroots together and in times of rapid and often unforeseeable change, that can leave grassroots projects put under pressure. It is more important than ever for voluntary organisations to stay strong together, and to have access to resources like POP Collectives that they can share.
Kintsugi Radio Since November 2020, 19 unique Plymouth collaborations have been awarded up to £5,000 from the POP Collectives Fund. Collectives are designed to promote collaboration, bringing members of Plymouth’s voluntary and social enterprise sectors together for social and environmental benefit. Collaborations have worked together with invention and passion to contribute towards urgent refugee support, subway murals in Chaddlewood, radio and podcasting opportunities for people with disabilities, grassroots ethical fashion and more. Collectives are one way POP has invested as much of the £1.3 million Esmée Fairbairn Foundation grant awarded
to Plymouth in 2017 into our city grassroots as possible. By January 2022, 57 organisations had been involved in a Collective. 79% of those ran a yearly budget of under £100,000, while 37% had a turnover of under £10,000. The online application process makes it easy for smaller groups to apply. Collectives are designed to be democratic, so it is POP’s member organisations that vote for what is funded. Most voluntary organisations in Plymouth have a budget of under £50,000. At POP, we believe that small is beautiful, but we know it is never easy. Covid and lockdown fatigue have impacted the voluntary sector. Small charities are often reliant on larger organisations,
The evidence that we have found from our Collectives is that collaboration is an exciting way to work. Instead of being forced to compete against other charities for funds, POP Collectives allows organisations to build strategic partnerships. A great example of that is the Plymouth Eco Collective. They are a small group of Plymouth based organisations using art to promote environmental messages. They have painted murals together, retrieved retro cola cans from the 80’s in litter picks for photoshoots, and have been developing augmented reality artwork. One of the Plymouth Eco Collective members describes collaborative working as ‘addictive’, and we can tell. 6 out of the 7 members of this Collective have gone on to join another one.
Helpline Numbers:
larger organisations struggle to provide. Collectives provide that flexibility for projects like Kintsugi Radio who wanted to upgrade their studio resources at Leadworks. POP do not ask for a completed budget before funding. Kintsugi Radio had the freedom to buy the right equipment for what they needed when they needed it. Efford Efford Anyone can see how Collectives Community Community spend their funds because Network Network expenses are published in real time online. POP work closely with our Collectives so that we learn how to keep improving from projects through ongoing conversation. POP Collectives are still open for great experimental ideas from POP member organisations. A Collective needs a minimum of 3 organisations working together to apply. Visit bit.ly/popcollectives to find out more about what Collectives fund, how applications work, and to apply. The Love Shack
Grassroots charities often need an extra amount of flexibility that funding for
Efford Efford 07380 309586 07380 309586 Glenholt Glenholt 07849 413125 07849 413125
SUPPOSE YOU HAD £1000 TO SPEND IMPROVING YOUR COMMUNITY
WHAT WOULD YOU DO?
POP is working with Street to Scale to bring grassroots community ideas to life. There is no application form; no targets and no need for written outcomes. If you’d like £1000 to spend on your community, contact: 07842 043399 (WhatsApp)
Wonderzoo - Making it happen WonderZoo have two great news stories to share! They have been awarded funding to archive the Plymouth Respect Festival and further funding to put on a second pilot festival called Storyteller. Thanks to funding from National Lottery Heritage Fund, WonderZoo will be archiving 20+ years of the Plymouth Respect Festival. This well-known festival was founded by Ann Wilkinson and Dan Thompson in 1998 and has been going ever since, with support from the Plymouth & Devon Racial Equality Council (PDREC) and other organisations. The history project will be called ‘Celebrate Respect!’. It will research the development of the festival from its inception to present day. By interviewing organisers, participants, and audiences of the festival, the team at WonderZoo will map out its history and impact. They will create an archive of 100 oral history recordings, transcriptions, photographs, film footage, and other artefacts to be stored at The Box Museum for posterity. The archive will ensure that all the hard work, ambition, and passion involved in creating the Respect
Festival will never be forgotten. They have also been awarded funding from POP to stage a second pilot festival called ‘Storyteller’. This comes after the success of he first pilot in March 2021 called ‘Lost Time’, which was staged during COVID-19 restrictions. The Storyteller pilot will include a research project to assess whether a large-scale future storytelling festival will be feasible in Plymouth. It will take place from 1-5 June 2022 (during half-term holiday), with 11 events taking place across 6 small, intimate venues in Stonehouse. This will include day time
Plymouth Respect Festival workshops such as photography, shadow puppets, climate change, writing, radio, and personal storytelling; as well as evening events such as a WonderZoo gig, ticketed meal & play, history walk & film screening, African night, and comedy night. Young film maker Alusché Latuka will be making a short film to help promote the event, which will be shown over the five days at RAAY on Adelaide Street. Supporting the festival will be POP, Nudge Community Builders, Literature Works, and Plymouth Culture. The timetable will be released in late March.
WonderZoo is all about storytelling, community, and collaboration. It’s a combined arts organisation, specialising in spoken word and performance events, workshops and activities, infused with 1920s surrealism and Punk DIY Ethics. Get in touch if you’d like to be involved in the Celebrate Respect! archive project, or for more information on Wonderzoo’s events. wonderzooarts@gmail.com www.wonderzoo.org
20 April 2022 THE
Experience
Who would have imagined the global change we would all witness since the invasion of Ukraine by Russia? After two years we were just exiting lockdown from Covid and perhaps starting to recover from the impact on all our lives.
Now, at the time of writing this at the beginning of March the nation and many free nations around the world are shocked by these geo-political developments. Our news channels are quite rightly dominated hour by hour with the unfolding developments. A few years back a Christian band called First Call wrote an amazing song with the chorus which stated: ‘I don’t know what the future holds, but I know who holds the future.’ For many living in Ukraine their faith has proven essential to strengthen their resolve. The courageous President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy and his wife and family, have not only led their country well in this crisis, but galvanised the free world to respond against Putin through massive economic sanctions. Prayers for this courageous man and his family motivated from hearts of love, honour and respect are valuable. He has called for prayer for his nation. More than seven out of ten Ukrainians are
20 April 2022
@PlymChronicle
Praying for peace in Ukraine
By Chris Cole, Founder of Cross Rhythms charity
Christians and there is so much coverage from media sources, including the BBC, on the call to prayer amongst these beleaguered, brave people. To be honest, I was reduced to tears, when simply through experiencing human empathy, I watched this nightmare unfold and thought about the total disruption to life, not experienced since the second world war, that millions of these courageous people were possibly going to experience. Netflix produced an excellent documentary about the build up to Russia annexing the Crimea called ‘Winter on Fire – Ukraine’s Fight for Freedom’ which is worth a view. Without any condemnation or guilt, let us all be inspired by what they’re enduring as a nation to dig deep within ourselves and manifest some human courage in these difficult times. We are going to experience some of the fallout, if only economically now, from these
hourly unfolding events. My motive regarding this article is to encourage us all to consider, like the Ukrainians, the power of prayer and to genuinely research the power of the sacred scriptures. There are some 47 scriptures in the Old Testament which accurately refer to Jesus Christ as the coming Messiah. Scripture written prophetically like Psalm 22, which was written 1,000 years before God came as man in the person of Jesus Christ, 2000 years ago. The verses 16 – 18 describe His garments being gambled for at His crucifixion. There are an estimated 2.4 billion Christians across the globe; many of them - some 350 million - are Chris Cole living persecuted lives in authoritarian regimes where the freedom of speech and religious conscience is not permitted; their prayers are particularly powerful and relevant as they experience His Presence in dark times.
Community grants available for Plymouth’s armed forces charities Charities and organisations supporting serving personnel, veterans and their families in Plymouth have the chance to share in more than £45,000 of funding this April, May and June.
Groups are being invited to take part in a dedicated round of Tesco’s community grant scheme. The initiative, partnership with community charity Groundwork, sees funding awarded to thousands of community projects every year. This April, the supermarket is putting a special focus on armed forces in garrison cities and towns. Nominations for Plymouth charities are being invited and the shortlist will be revealed ahead of the store voting, which begins in stores from April until June. Customers will cast their vote using a blue token given to them at the check-out each time they shop, and awards of £1,500, £1,000 and £500 will be granted. The funding is part of Tesco’s longstanding support of military charities, which this year sees them sponsor Armed Forces Day on June 26, celebrating the contribution of members of the armed forces past and present.Tesco, a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, employs more former military personnel than any other business in the UK.
As a Plymothian, for me one of the aspects of celebrating the 400th anniversary of the sailing of the Mayflower was the freedom to live a life in a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ, and build sustainable communities of love and decency. Freedom always takes courage of conviction and belief. When Dr Martin Luther King said: ‘if you haven’t got a cause worth dying for, then you haven’t got a cause worth living for,’ he personally walked the talk. He had a dream about the future and his life changed civil rights in the 1960s. He knew personally that although he didn’t know what the future held, he knew who held the future and lived accordingly. As Franklin D Roosevelt said: ‘Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the assessment that something else is more important than fear.’ The death and resurrection of Jesus Christ is worth contemplating at a very deep personal level this Easter.
Listen to Cross Rhythms Plymouth on 96.3FM or online at the new Cross Rhythms Plymouth website at www. crossrhythms.co.uk/plymouth
Renters urged to check if they might qualify for extra financial help Tenants in Plymouth who are receiving Housing Benefit or the housing costs element of Universal Credit are being reminded by Plymouth City Council that they may be eligible for extra financial help if they are struggling to cover their rent.
Claire de Silva, Tesco’s head of community, said: “Tesco’s founder Sir Jack Cohen established the business with his WWI demob money, and supporting our armed forces has always been important to us. “I am delighted that we have been able to create this special Community Grant
Lions Club donation to St John Ambulance Plymouth Lions Club have made a donation to St John Ambulance Plymstock Cadets to thank them for their help and assistance with Christmas collections at local supermarkets.
A number of volunteers from the St John Ambulance Plymstock Cadets helped during the collection period and in order to thank them for their assistance, Lions Club of members approved a donation to cover the cost of a number of white boards and defibrillator controllers for use in the training of St John Ambulance cadets. The photo here shows the presentation of a cheque by Lion President Jeff Horgan to St John Ambulance Cadets
funding round to give a boost to charities and organisations serving our garrison cities and towns.” Anyone can nominate a project, and organisations and groups looking to apply for the special funding round should visit www.tescocommunitygrants.org.uk
A Discretionary Housing Payment may be available if there is a shortfall between the amount of housing related benefits people receive and the rent they pay, if they are in rent arrears or need to pay removal costs or rent in advance to be able to move to somewhere more affordable or suitable for their needs. People may also be able to get a Discretionary Housing Payment if: • They have a spare bedroom that Housing Benefit or Universal Credit does not pay for • There is someone in their property who has a disability • A benefit cap has reduced the Housing Benefit or Universal Credit they receive These are only examples and don’t cover all the circumstances in which a Discretionary Housing Payment can be awarded. Cabinet Member for Homes and Communities Councillor Vivien Pengelly said: “With the cost of living rising so steeply we are fully aware that lots of people will be pushed into financial hardship and many will be worried about having enough money to pay their rent or clear arrears with their landlord. “Anyone who rents and receives Housing Benefit or the housing costs element of Universal Credit may be eligible, so please look into whether this payment could help you and your family.” To find out more information including how to apply visit the council website at www.plymouth.gov.uk or call 01752 668000.
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22 April 2022
22 April 2022
Plymouth leads the way in programmes to protect children’s teeth and promote good oral health
A number of initiatives have been reported in the Chronicle in the past few months, all aimed at reversing the trend that saw over 600 children in hospital for tooth extractions under general anaesthetic (GA) in just one year.
GA has a serious impact on children, not to mention the economic impact costing the NHS £1,000 per patient. And tooth decay can erode children’s social confidence as well as tooth enamel, limiting their ability to make friends and even affecting job prospects in later years. Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise CIC (PDSE), working in partnership with Well Connected, a health and wellbeing charity based in Plymouth run an extensive supervised tooth brushing programme, aimed at three to five year olds. A total of 220 primary schools and nurseries in the PL and EX postcode areas of Devon benefit from the programme, funded by NHS England & NHS Improvement South West. PDSE and its partners have established supervised tooth brushing programmes in primary schools and nurseries, delivering training to staff who engage with pre-school and reception age children, which enables them to supervise children when brushing teeth. Karen Burn, dental outreach lead for PDSE, explained: “Early introduction of fluoride is the best method of protecting teeth against tooth decay, together with early education around healthy eating and tooth brushing technique. “We provide training for early years staff, information to parents, and all the resources including cleaning equipment, tooth brushes, paste, policy and protocols. “Obviously the main aim of the programme is to help prevent children going into hospital to have their teeth removed under GA, but another very important aim is to raise people’s confidence to be able to talk about good oral health and pass on the messages to others.” Key messages to give to children from a very early age are: • Brush twice a day – always before bedtime and then one other time during the day. • Brush for two minutes • Use a pea size amount of fluoride toothpaste (a smear for under two years) • Save sugary drinks and snacks to meal times – it’s not how much sugar you have its how often you have it! • Visit a dentist regularly – this can prevent tooth decay from getting so bad the teeth need to be removed. • Remember tooth decay is preventable! “Education is the key,” said Karen. “If we continue to talk about good oral health and teach children how to keep their mouths healthy we are helping to protect them from dental disease, heart disease, the risk of stroke and other life limiting conditions in the future.”
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Plymouth young people’s music club celebrates belated 40th anniversary A local young people’s music club is celebrating its belated 40th birthday with a reunion in June and concert in May.
Plymouth Musical Activities Club (PMAC) consists of young people aged between nine and 18 along with adult volunteers, is busy rehearsing for a special concert which will see the club perform a selection of their most loved songs from over 40 years. The concert takes place in the Devonport Playhouse on May 13 and 14. As well as the concert, members past and present are invited to a reunion at the Green Taverners at Home Park on June 25. It will be an opportunity for those who were and still are a part of PMAC to meet, share memories and even play their instruments if they wish. Tickets are on sale for £5 for past members. Those interested can go along to Courtlands School where PMAC rehearse on a Thursday night or call Carole on 07926 029268 or Margaret on 07805 906297 for tickets. Established in 1980, Plymouth MAC was started Founder David Ashley
One of the many Lord Mayor’s Day PMAC floats in the procession
One of the intermediate groups at PMAC circa 1997
in Thornbury School by David Ashley, a community education tutor at the time. His vision was to involve young people from all backgrounds in live music in Plymouth. Through teaching and concerts the club continues to ‘Keep Music Live’ over 40 years on. The club moved to Widey Court Primary School and then to Courtlands School and over that time the group has played in some prestigious venues including the Theatre Royal Plymouth and the ‘Conservatoire de Musique’ on a visit to Brest in France. More frequent activities
have also taken place including annual concerts and Christmas concerts at Devonport Playhouse, performances on Lord Mayor’s Day, concerts for the Rotary, RNLI and other charities, numerous school fairs and late night shopping performances. Plymouth MAC has sections for many instruments including guitars, keyboards, percussion, drums, flutes, clarinets and a singing section. The young people have been supported by a dedicated team of volunteers for four decades. These
volunteers teach the children how to play instruments and other staff members support the running of the club in numerous other ways behind the scenes. Some of these staff started with the club as nine year old children themselves and are now bringing their own children along to learn an instrument. After David Ashely sadly passed away in 2001, the club was left in safe hands with musical directors Margaret Johns and Judy Roberts. Margaret said: “It’s hard to believe that it was 40 years ago that PMAC started. We have fond memories of working with David Ashley at that time to get the club to where it is today. “Over the years we have seen hundreds of members join and some have stayed on to become staff volunteers and are still with us today. It is a testament to those volunteers giving up their free time that we are still able to provide this opportunity for young people. Looking ahead to the concert Judy said: “Our audiences can look forward to a journey down memory lane. We asked our members past and present what their favourite ‘MAC’ songs were and we have a really uplifting programme to play for you in May. We would love to see as many familiar faces at the concert to sing along to some of the favourite songs. Tickets for the concert are £6 and available from Angela Fuller on 01752 773482. For more information visit www. plymouthmac.co.uk
Council agrees fee increase for care workers
Plymouth City Council has agreed an increase in fees to the city’s adult social care providers to recognise the rising cost of providing care for vulnerable adults.
Adult social care providers nationally are continuing to face a significant increase in costs in making sure adults are cared for safely, including for staff and the costs of utilities and food. To try and support them there is a
national drive towards paying them a fair fee so they are able to fully cover their costs and provide good quality support for those they look after. This approach also aims to help more staff to stay working in adult social care and attract new carers to the profession by paying higher wages. The council has made the decision to award a 10 per cent rise to regulated domiciliary care providers and a 6.49 per cent rise for care homes and a 6.39 per cent for
supported living provision. The funding follows a series of measures over the winter to support adult social care providers including the Workforce Recruitment and Retention Fund, funding for Infection Control and a recruitment campaign for care workers. Anyone who is interested in care sector work should visit the council website and register their details at www.plymouth.gov.uk/ workinhomecare
New approach to supporting city’s vulnerable children A new plan to ensure there are enough local placements available for some of Plymouth’s most vulnerable children and young people has been approved by Plymouth City Council’s Cabinet.
Plymouth, like many other local authorities across the country, has seen a significant increase in the number of vulnerable children needing care, and in the complexity of their needs. Currently, the demand for suitable placements for children in care outstrips supply, with increasing difficulty in sourcing the right placement the first time. As well as an increase in demand for placements the overall cost of providing good quality care is rising, so the council wants to work with providers in a way that is innovative and imaginative, that flexes to meet the needs of children and young
people and manages risks together using true partnership. This placement sufficiency plan sets out a series of proposals for 2022/23, designed to work with fostering and children’s home providers to come up with new solutions and choices for Plymouth’s most vulnerable children and young people. It also proposes improving how agency care staff are commissioned, to make sure children are getting consistently good quality support. Cabinet Member for Children and Young People and Education and Skills Councillor Dave Downie said: “We know that many placement providers are motivated by doing the right thing for children and young people, and we want to ensure we can formalise closer working relationships with providers who are keen to work with us to develop new ways of providing care.”
April 2022
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23
New exhibition at The Box offers fresh responses to the Mayflower A new exhibition which has just opened at The Box, Plymouth showcases new responses to the Mayflower story and highlights how some of our most historic craft practices have endured across the centuries.
‘Another Crossing – Artists Revisit the Mayflower Voyage’ is a transatlantic collaboration between Plymouth College of Art, The Box and the Fuller Craft Museum in Massachusetts. This will be its only showing in the UK. The exhibition brings 10 different artists from the UK, USA, the Wampanoag nation and Holland together. Each artist has created new work that responds to the far-reaching consequences of the Mayflower’s voyage using only tools, materials and processes that existed in 1620. Works on display include beadwork, joinery, metalsmithing, leatherwork and pottery. Victoria Pomery, chief executive at The Box said: “We’re delighted to be able to present one more Mayflower-inspired show, hot on the heels of our award-winning ‘Legend and Legacy’ exhibition – especially one that offers a completely different take on the events that happened just over 400 years ago.” As part of the development of the exhibition the artists travelled to Plymouth and Massachusetts to meet historians, curators and academics and gain a better understanding of each key location. Being involved has been a challenging and thought provoking experience for them all. Judith Robinson, arts programmes manager at The Box said: “Although we’ve been exploring the Mayflower story for a while, its implications can still be hard to fully comprehend. The works in ‘Another Crossing’ reflect this and are thoughtful, outraged, sad and surprising in turn. Participating in the exhibition has definitely taken each of the artists on a journey.” The curator responsible for bringing the artists together and setting them the challenge of working with processes and materials from four centuries ago, was internationally renowned crafts specialist, Glenn Adamson. The USA-based curator and writer has previously worked for the V&A and
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developed exhibitions in a number of prestigious venues, including the Design Museum in London. Councillor Mark Deacon, Cabinet Member for Customer Services, Culture, Leisure and Sport said: “Craft has a really strong tradition here in the South West and it’s wonderful to see new works that have been created the way they would at the time of the Mayflower. ‘Another Crossing’ is another great example of international partnership working, and The Box’s approach to working with contemporary artists to help shed light on our history.” Ian Hutchinson, head of development at Plymouth College of Art, said: “Conversations leading to ‘Another Crossing’ began as part of the Mayflower 400 cultural exchanges and progressed in 2017 when Glenn Adamson appeared as a keynote speaker at Making Futures, Plymouth College of Art’s international research platform exploring contemporary crafts. After such a long inception, we’re thrilled those initial ideas have resulted in this transatlantic collaboration, a
partnership between two of Plymouth’s leading art institutions and one of the world’s best known museums of contemporary craft. “Our BA (Hons) Painting, Drawing & Printmaking students have also embraced this as a unique opportunity to respond to the artists’ work and learn traditional print and bookbinding processes, which they’ve used to produce a handmade limited edition catalogue available to view alongside the exhibition.” ‘Another Crossing – Artists Revisit the Mayflower Voyage’ is on display at The Box until Sunday June 5. Exhibition opening hours are 10am-5pm Tuesday to Sunday and Bank Holidays. Admission is free and there’s no need to book in advance. Leading craft academics and students from Plymouth College of Art will lead a dedicated Study Day linked to the exhibition on Wednesday May 4. Full details will be available online at www. theboxplymouth.com and www.plymouthart.ac.uk.
College shortlisted for top international award Plymouth College of Art has been shortlisted for the CSR/ Sustainability Transformation Award at this year’s international Think Global Awards, based on the college’s active embrace of sustainability best practices.
acknowledged by being shortlisted in the Think Global Awards.” Harriet Moore, the college’s Students’ Union President said: “Sustainability is one of the core values of the Students’ Union, something we consider in everything we do. For example, we have transferred to using compostable mailers for any letters and merchandise parcels we send out. The university-sector art school was shortlisted alongside leading “Being sustainable is incredibly important to our student body, which is international organisations including Amnesty International and Sony. why we recently added two sustainability representatives, one for Further Recognising global success in individuals and organisations that span Education and one for Higher Education, multiple industries and activities, to ensure that students are able to put this year the fifth annual Think Global Students and staff get involved in the forward their ideas and suggestions, and Awards programme follows the theme 2019 Climate Strike in Plymouth work directly with key staff in the college of ‘Reimagining Culture’. With such an to make a difference not just for our unprecedented recent shift in how the community but for the world. world operates, for 2022 the awards have “We’re even in the process of launching chosen to spotlight the dramatic recent a collaborative monthly Sustainability changes to our work life and how we Newsletter and annual Sustainability Week interact with each other. to celebrate and educate both staff and Nicky Turvey, sustainability and facilities students.” officer at Plymouth College of Art said: “We The college actively recycles at least are continuously working to increase the two-thirds of all waste generated in energy efficiency of our buildings, facilities classrooms and offices, with a food waste and courses. We are increasing the collection in The Refectory, the college’s on biodiversity and diversity of our planting site cafeteria, which is then composted. All schemes at all sites meaning that we have the food served in The Refectory is locallysuccessfully reduced our carbon footprint sourced, supporting local businesses and reducing unnecessary food miles by 43%, and are working on increasing our recycling rates for all waste from and consumption of fossil fuels. classroom, to furniture, catering and workshop materials. Many staff, students and alumni from Plymouth College of Art demonstrate “We are not only embedding sustainability within our estate, we are their commitment to sustainability in their personal and professional making it a continually taught practice through the teaching and learning practices, highlighted in Fab Lab Plymouth principal technician Ian Hankey’s curriculum from Pre-Degree throughout to our Masters courses, in the recently launched Upcycled Glass Company CIC. This focuses on upcycling classroom and through external live briefs. local waste glass – the majority of which cannot currently be recycled into “Plymouth College of Art is committed to sustainable best practice, which new glass suitable for use in handmade art and design products, utilising a is driven through cross disciplinary collaboration by the students, academic mixture of new technologies, modern farming methods and historical glass staff, Students’ Union, professional services, our senior leadership team mixing processes that go back to the 17th century. and Governors, and as a result, we are very honoured for this work to be
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24 April 2022
24 April 2022
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Plymouth academic contributes to global climate change report:
‘Taking action now can secure our future’ Human-induced climate change is causing dangerous and widespread disruption in nature and affecting the lives of billions of people around the world, according to a new report co-authored by a University of Plymouth researcher. The report which highlighted the global challenges was approved by 195 member governments of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in February. It highlighted that the world faces unavoidable multiple climate hazards over the next two decades with global warming of 1.5°C (2.7°F). The report also says that even temporarily exceeding this warming level will result in additional severe impacts, some of which will be irreversible. Risks for society will increase, including to infrastructure and low-lying coastal settlements. Professor Camille Parmesan, from the University’s School of Biological and Marine Sciences, had been a Coordinating Lead Author for Working Group II of the 6th Assessment Report of the IPCC for the past four years. She coordinated a global assessment of observed and projected impacts of climate change on terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems and their adaptation options. She was also heavily involved with chapters linked to her ongoing research, including: observed impacts on wild species of current and future climate change; population losses, mass mortality events of plants and animals, and species’ extinctions driven by climate change; changes in diseases in wildlife due to climate change and how that relates to changing risks for humans; and the potential of natural ecosystems in helping humans mitigate and adapt to climate change, includes roles of Nature-based Solutions
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and of Ecosystem-based Adaptation. Professor Parmesan, who also is a Make Our Planet Great Again Laureate and has affiliations to the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) and the University of Texas at Austin, said: “Since our last Assessment Report in 2014, the impacts of climate change have risen exponentially. Effects have been documented in every region of the planet, and they are occurring sooner and are more negative than previously expected. Adverse impacts also far out-weigh the positives, including for agricultural production and human health. “Species have shifted where and when they live, attempting to track climate as it shifts is space and time. We are also starting to see the first global extinctions driven by climate change, and that is an irreversible impact. It will also affect human populations as new evidence in this report documents the strong coupling between ecosystem health, human health and well-being,
and sustainable development for society. “There is an urgent and pressing need for action, and the potential solutions are out there. However, a key message from this report is that we must plan for change. The current projections represent a range of possible futures, and the decision-making process will be most effective and most resilient to climate change when it retains flexibility and is open to changes in planning as climate change occurs in real time.” Among the key elements specific to the UK highlighted in the report are that peatlands, such as those found on Dartmoor and other parts of South West England, are one of the highest carbon systems in the world and essential for carbon sequestration and storage. Professor Parmesan added: “Climate change is causing some peatlands to become drier, causing them to release carbon as they decompose. In some systems in some regions (such as parts of the high Arctic permafrost), these processes have already gone so far as to shift these high-carbon systems from being historical carbon sinks into new carbon sources. This weakening of the biosphere’s ability to suck up and store carbon from the atmosphere is one of the most worrying risks from ‘overshoot’ – that is, allowing global warming to exceed 1.5° or 2°C for several decades. “We can control how much humans contribute to global warming through mitigation actions, but it will become increasingly harder to control the biosphere as it increasingly shifts from removing carbon-dioxide from the atmosphere to releasing it back into the atmosphere. And the peatlands are also a key example of why planting trees everywhere is not a good idea. “If you drain peatlands and plant trees, this causes the dry peat soils to decompose and releases far more carbon than the trees remove as they grow. This is a perfect example of ‘maladaptive’ mitigation actions.” It also featured details of heatwaves being associated with outbreaks of helminth pathogens, which have expanded or shifted their ranges poleward due to increases in temperature, precipitation and humidity. These pathogens can reduce growth and yield, kill livestock and infect humans and wildlife, leading to health, agricultural and economic losses.
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Chronicle Plymouth
April 2022
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Gables Dogs and Cats Home appeal for help to treat broken hearted Staffie cross Hockey For details see Page 3
City College Plymouth has been awarded the prestigious Google Reference College status See Page 9
Central & Waterfront Gym manager Adam Domyslawski has raised over £5,000 for a city charity with a 12-hour fitness challenge See Page 16
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Faye stars for Team GB
Plympton’s Faye West was the only female member of the Great Britain Wheelchair Rugby team which won a silver medal in the European Championships in France – losing to the hosts in the final by just one point • See page 3 for details
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