Plymouth Chronicle January Central 2023

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January 2024 An ‘orange army’ of volunteers have already gifted more than 20,000 hours of their time at Derriford Hospital this year See Page 3

# PLYMOUTHTOGETHER Gables Cats and Dogs Home is appealing for help to meet its soaring winter heating costs See Page 9

Central & Waterfront The pool at Devil’s Point – one of Plymouth’s most popular bathing spots – is getting a makeover See Page 24

ALSO INSIDE: Looking for a tradesman?

Turn to our Dial The Experts guide on pages 20 and 21

‘Tis the season to be jolly!

Final touches are added to the Christmas decorations in the house at National Trust’s Saltram • Story and photos on page 9 Photo: National Trust/SG Haywood Photography

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2 January 2024

Mrs Murals and Kaya Gallery raising funds for the RNLI

MP urges Boots to abandon its pharmacy closure plans Plymouth MP Luke Pollard has urged Boots to save ‘lifeline” pharmacies in in the city and abandon its closure plans.

Talented local artist Ellie Johnson, better known as Mrs Murals, is working with Kaya Gallery on the Barbican to raise funds for the RNLI.

Mrs Murals has created two unique pieces of artwork using driftwood from local Mount Batten beach. On these she has painted the RNLI Plymouth Severn Class Lifeboat ‘Sybil Mullen Glover’ and the Atlantic Class lifeboat ‘Annabel E Jones’ and they are being auctioned at Kaya Gallery to raise money for the RNLI. The RNLI invited Mrs Murals to the Plymouth Lifeboat Station, along with her driftwood art to meet the crew and have a look at the lifeboats. Plymouth RNLI coxswain and mechanic Simon Jeffery said: “It was a pleasure to show Mrs Murals around our station and Ellie Johnson pictured with coxswain Simon Jeffery boats. We love everything about the artworks she has produced - the colours, to be able to support them and raise awareness in the detail, the choice of canvas! whatever way I can.”

“Thanks Mrs Murals for your kind and generous Mrs Murals created a collection of nautical support of our Plymouth crew. We are hugely themed pieces of unique artwork, including the thankful for the generosity of our supporters. As driftwood, which is being displayed and sold at a charity, we are reliant on voluntary donations to Kaya Gallery. Kaya Gallery is taking bids over £300 power our lifesaving work.” per item for the driftwood artworks, the silent Ellie said “It was such a privilege to be invited auction will be held via email at kayagalleryltd@ onto the lifeboats and meet some of the crew! gmail.com. The auction ends on December 14, with The RNLI is such an important charity, I’m proud 50% of the proceeds being donated to the RNLI. PLY_2023-12-04_PlymouthChronicleSeries_16x9 (1)_Just Go

Boots is planning to permanently close its community pharmacies on Claremont Street and Eggbuckland Road in January 2024, followed by the Cattedown Road and Salisbury Road pharmacies in March 2024.

Writing to the boss of Boots, Luke said the closures will hit vulnerable and low-income people the hardest – worsening health inequalities – by forcing communities to travel further afield for prescriptions.

Luke also urged Boots to transfer provision to an alternative provider if the pharmacy closures go ahead, to minimise disruption to local communities.

Luke has been contacted by more than 250 people about the planned closures, with many anxious about their ability to access pharmacy services if Boots presses ahead with the closures.

Luke said: “Boots are putting profits before people and it stinks. I want to see alternative providers take over these pharmacies if Boots insists on shutting them down.

“These pharmacies are in communities hit hardest by the cost-of-living crisis, and it’s concerning that vulnerable patients and those on low incomes will now have to travel further for prescriptions. This will widen health inequalities in our city.

“Hundreds of people have been in touch with me to express their concerns, which I have expressed loud and clear to Boots and the government. I have invited bosses at Boots to come to Plymouth to

see how valuable and successful these community surgeries are.”

Cllr Mary Aspinall, Cabinet Member for Health on Plymouth City Council, said: “Each of the pharmacies Boots plan to close are incredibly important to the local communities they serve many in high-need areas. It would be a huge blow for patients in Plymouth to lose them.

“That’s why on behalf of Plymouth City Council I am writing to Minister for Primary Care and Public Health, urging her to intervene and ensure these vital local services remain open for public use.”

Dr Andrew Potter, GP at the North Road West Medical Centre and partner in the surgery adjoining Claremont Street pharmacy, added: “All the team at North Road West Medical Centre were saddened to hear of the news closure of the adjacent Boots pharmacy. Our reception and clinical team are having multiple conversations every day with patients who have concerns that the service they will receive in future from other pharmacies will be less responsive.

“We estimate that about 4,500 patients will have to change pharmacy. This pharmacy has won multiple awards over the years for outstanding service, and it is a beacon of what community pharmacy is all about. This is especially important in the area of deprivation that we jointly serve.

“While the surgery and the pharmacy are separate entities, we have worked very closely over the years. This has meant, for example, that during duty surgeries we have been able to access urgent medication such as antibiotics instantly. This is the joined-up approach that primary care needs to function effectively.”

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January 2024

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‘Orange Army’ of volunteers giving 20,000 hours of time A team of over 300 volunteers have gifted more than 20,000 hours of their time to support staff and patients at Derriford Hospital and other University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust sites in 2023 so far.

Trevi staff deliver the ENOUGH message

ENOUGH is ENOUGH! campaign launched

Local women’ s charity Trevi has launched a city-wide campaign for 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence and says ENOUGH! The campaign was launched with a march through Plymouth city centre on November 25.

Volunteers make up a vital part of the workforce at UHP, providing guidance, help and a friendly face to those being treated at, working within, or visiting the hospital.

Currently, the Trust has over 320 volunteers from all walks of life who bring experience and enthusiasm to every shift they take.

Whether it is giving back to say thank you or learning new skills through volunteering to boost career prospects, the team support the Trust by helping in wards and various departments at Derriford Hospital and in new roles at Mount Gould and the Cumberland Centre.

Volunteers can have a huge impact on the patient experience as they are able to give an extra level of support through actions such as offering directions, pouring patients a cup of tea or a stopping for a chat, with an estimated 5,000 of these interactions taking place each month.

In addition to supporting patients and visitors during their time at UHP, the volunteers also provide vital services to the staff. In April 2023, the active response volunteer team delivered nearly 3000 medications from pharmacy to other areas of the Trust. This helps to free up Trust staff for other tasks, while ensuring patients get the medicines they need in a timely manner.

The volunteer programme at UHP can also support those who choose to volunteer on a personal level as well. Through the Volunteer to Career programme, some volunteers have progressed into careers in the NHS, while others have upskilled themselves and improved their CVs. In addition, many volunteers feel pride in what they do and are grateful for a chance to say thank you and give back to the Trust after themselves or a loved one received care.

Becky Smith, voluntary services manager, said: “We are inspired every day by our volunteers and their willingness to help. They tell us stories of interactions with patients, their personal achievements and everything they have done to be there for staff and patients. Our team gives over 2,000 hours every month to UHP, whether that’s in the Emergency Department, Outpatients, on wards or on Hospital Radio – it really is so varied and has a significant impact.”

Since the implementation of a volunteers’ programme at UHP, the ‘orange army,’ as they are affectionately known, has given over 1,000 years of their time to the Trust.

Showing their appreciation of that service, UHP joined thousands of charities and organisations in recognising Volunteers’ Week. To mark the occasion, the Trust hosted

Over the last five years, the number of domestic abuse incidents has been increasing in Plymouth, and it accounts for 27% of all violent crimes in the city compared to the national average of 16%. Last year alone, there a celebration evening, supported by Plymouth Hospitals were 6,933 reported cases of domestic abuse, an increase of 21% from the Charity, and awarded long service badges and thank you previous year. certificates, ensuring the volunteers know how much they Trevi’s campaign is simple: ENOUGH. They want to spread this message are valued within UHP’s #1BigTeam. across Plymouth urging people to take action in helping end violence Danielle Faulkner, volunteer coordinator, added: “We against women and girls, and everyone can be involved. recently carried out some work to ask patients, visitors, They are working in partnership with Plymouth City Council, NSPCC, and staff about the impact of volunteers and the response Devon & Cornwall Police, First Light, MAN Culture Plymouth, Plymouth was of gratitude and recognition of the support volunteers Domestic Abuse Services and the Plymouth NHS Trust organisations to give. We love hearing these stories and feedback and amplify their message through billboards, artist walls, and a social media make sure that we pass praise on to the team as well as campaign.

UHP management to ensure that volunteers are thanked Across the city, visual messages will be popping up which will encourage and recognised.” people to become part of the movement, which as Trevi explains, is ‘simple.’

The volunteers are UHP aged from 16 to their 80s Hannah Shead, Trevi chief executive said: “Our campaign message is with some gifting their time every week, and others less clear: if you see it, call it out or report it. If you are experiencing it, seek frequently, however, all are a welcomed part of the team. help and support. Violence against women is learned. Each of us must There are always new opportunities opening up and examine - and change - how our own behaviour might enable, ignore or additional areas requesting volunteer support. excuse all such forms of violence.

Volunteers and members of staff from UHP meet “As partners working together in the city, we are committed to creating regularly via a Volunteer Committee to discuss the positive cultural change around violence against women and girls. We want volunteer experience and volunteering opportunities at to live in a community that does not tolerate a society where women and the Trust. This ensures that volunteer voices are heard and girls are in danger of harm and abuse. listened to, improving the volunteer experience but also “As we think about those women affected by domestic abuse as well feeding back vital patient information and observations. as those brutally murdered in the past, our organisations come together Anyone interested in volunteering at University united in demanding an end to violence against women and children.”

Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust should visit www.

An estimated 132,300 women and girls live in Plymouth, with 107,600 plymouthhospitals.nhs.uk/volunteering over 16. Based on the ONS estimate of 1 in 3 women likely to have been subjected to at least one form of harassment in the last year, that’ s around 36,000 women!

Locally, Trevi and partner organisations will focus on engaging communities both publicly Leave and professionally to go beyond 16 days to all a Will 365 days a year, advocating an adequate shift in practice to end violence against women and girls. They are particularly focused on engaging men and aim to shift societal attitudes, You may already have a Will, but is it tax systems and behaviours around masculinity that help perpetuate gender inequality and, efficient and does it reflects your current wishes? therefore, men’ s violence against women. Local organisation MAN Culture is also supporting the In April 2017 the Government introduced an campaign. allowance called the Nil Rate Band Main Residence Matt Garrett from MAN Culture said: “We Allowance . If your Will pre dates this, it may include a clause where you are supporting this campaign as we agree that have left your property to a Trust and not directly to your children. This it is time to say ENOUGH. We are working in could result in a loss of £70,000 per individual to your beneficiaries. partnership across Plymouth to bring a change in Divorce and marriage can also impact your Estate. attitudes and actions, by working with men and boys to start a conversation about cultural norms Contact West Financial Management for a complimentary Will check. and expectations. Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) is not OK, and it never has been - It 01752 228382 helen@westfm.biz is time that we all stand together to bring it to www.westfm.biz an end.”

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NOT A MESS!

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.

Award-winning comedian Rob Brydon brings his latest tour ‘Rob Brydon - a Night of Music and Laughter’ to Plymouth’s Theatre Royal on February 25

Pennywell Christmas Experience Various dates Experience the Magic at Pennywell this Christmas!

At this time of year the Farm is transformed into a magical winter wonderland with twinkling lights, hundreds of Christmas trees and plenty of Christmas sparkle. A truly magical Christmas experience awaits!

Allow between 2 - 2.5 hours for the experience. Please note the farm is only open for Christmas experiences at this time of year. For details and tickets visit www. pennywellfarm.co.uk/buy-christmas-nativity-tickets Penguin and Bear Until Dec 24 A special Christmas show for under 8s presented by Stiltskin Theatre at The Soapbox Children’s Theatre in Devonport Park. Penguin and Bear are the best of friends as their pens are side by side in the zoo.

Until one day they are released back into their natural habitats – poles apart – in the North and the South Pole. Join in this heart-warming adventure, as the two friends discover they cannot live apart from one another and make the journey across the world to be reunited. Enjoy delightful storytelling with magical puppets, characters, music and much more! For tickets and timings visit www.stiltskin.org.uk Fairytales, Fables and Other Assorted Nonsense Dec 12 to 23 Family favourites Assembleth Theatre return to Plymouth’s Barbican Theatre with a festive swashbuckling adventure. Bringing to life an epic cast of fairy tales in their signature silly style, this fantastical comedy is a multi-layered show featuring physical theatre, farce, and fast-paced humour for the whole family. Tickets from www.barbicantheatre.co.uk Breakfast with Santa Dec 16, 17 , 21 and 22 Get into the Christmas spirit at The Box and enjoy a special ‘Breakfast with Santa’ in The Box Kitchen & Bar. tickets include a sausage/vegan sausage bap, bacon bap or pancakes with tea, Americano or hot chocolate. All children’s tickets include a gift. This event has been hugely popular in previous years, so don’t leave it too late to book! For details and bookings visit www.theboxplymouth.com Plymouth Christmas Market Until Dec 17 Plymouth’s popular festive market will feature dozens of traders giving shoppers the chance to pick up some individual and unique Christmas gifts.

Festive Good Food & Craft Market Various December dates Royal William Yard’s Melville Building hosts a huge array of stalls offering festive wares and unique gifts.

The Hook & Line will also be there with its fresh fish market – and if you wish, you can take your catch to the restaurant to be prepared. Sundays in December from 10am to 3pm. Wednesday evenings in December from 5pm to 9pm including Christmas crafts for children.

Kids Santa’s Christmas Disco Dec 16 A fun packed festive children’s party and cruise for the whole family to enjoy with Plymouth Boat Trips.

The 90 minute party features festive music, face painting and a visit from Santa all on-board. Ticket prices include a tea/coffee and a mince pie for adults, plus a soft drink and a seasonal selection box for each child. For prices and more details visit www. plymouthboatrips.co.uk Sir Joshua Reynolds Choir Dec 9, 12 and 13 The choir presents ‘A Little More Christmas Music’ at

Harewood House, Plympton on December 9 at 7.30pm.

Tickets £10 including wine and mince pie. Also at St Luke’s Light Up a Life Service at St Andrew’s Church, Plymouth at 2pm. Admission free. Also at Crownhill Methodist Church on December 13 at 7.30pm in aid of church funds. Tickets £7.

Tots Christmas Party Dec 15 A Christmas treat for the under 5s. Visit Super Tramp Plymouth in Breakwater Road, Plymstock for a festive bounce and the chance to meet Santa Claus.

Have your photo taken and receive a small gift. Play games and win prizes, plus Christmas music, tots meal box and cafe serving festive cakes and hot drinks. From 10am to 12 noon. For details visit 4www. supertrampparks.co.uk/ Christmas Concert Dec 15 South-west based chamber choir Levowan XII present an evening of festive choral music spanning some 700 years with music at St Peter & thew Holy Apostles Church, Wyndham Square at 7.30pm. Wine and mince pies will be available. Free entry with retiring collection. Reserve a seat at www.eventbrite.co.uk Ed Byrne Dec 17 Popular comedian Ed Byrne brings his Tragedy Plus Time tour to the Quad Theatre on the Marjon campus at 7.30pm. Tickets from www.comicalentertainment. com Plymouth Jazz Club Dec 17 Featuring the Dart Valley Stompers at Royal British Legion Club, Tailyour Road, Crownhill at 7.30pm.

Tickets on the door only. More details at www. plymouth-jazz-club.org.uk Handel’s Messiah Dec 20 Performance by West Devon Chorale and Ensemble at Plymouth RC Cathedral, Wyndham Street West at 7pm.

Conducted from the keyboard by the choir’s newly appointed music director Michael Graham. Tickets: £15 at the door (£14 in advance) £5 students from www. wegottickets/westdevonchorale or from the choir administrator on 01752 776479.

Songs for Wintertide Dec 21 The Tinsail Collective – Suthering and Windjammer – come together for a special Christmas collaboration for the third year in a row at the Sherwell United Church, North Hill, Plymouth at 7.30pm. After hugely successful sell-out performances at the Barbican Theatre and The Wharf in 2021 and 2022, they return with their atmospheric, winter-themed evening of folk songs. Combining rich five-part vocal harmonies with harmoniums, whistles, flutes, piano, guitars and accordion, this exciting and dramatic collaboration is a show is not to be missed. Expect unique interpretations of traditional tunes and Christmas favourites, as well as original music from both bands. Join this exciting collective of folk musicians for a memorable evening to drive out the cold and celebrate the winter season. For tickets go to www. wegottickets.com/event/595989 Jimmy Carr Dec 22 Star of the UK’s most streamed Netflix comedy special of 2021, Jimmy is back on the road with brand new material and is appearing at Plymouth Pavilions.

Jimmy’s show contains jokes about all kinds of terrible things that might have affected you or people you know and love. But they’re just jokes - they are not the terrible things. Having political correctness at a comedy show is like having health and safety at a rodeo. Now you’ve been warned, buy a ticket! Visit www.theticketstore.co.uk Carols by Candlelight Dec 22 Festive celebration at Salisbury Road Baptist Church at 7pm followed by mince pies and hot drinks. All welcome.

Ballroom & Sequence Dance Dec 23 With Dancing Duo Henry & Jeannie at The ELM Centre, Estover from 7.45pm to 10.15pm. Tickets £6 per person.

A draw in aid of HeartsTogether will be held.

Sing Devon Jan 11 Do you enjoy singing? Do you like to meet new people? Then go along to a Welcoming New Voices free session at Pomphlett Methodist Church Hall, Plymstock. 7.15pm to 9pm. The emphasis is on fun, supporting the local community and supporting each other. There are no auditions – just go along and give it a go. Experience the joy of singing. Details at www. singdevon.com or call Pete Scott on 07896 276577.

Carus Thompson Jan 20 Australian folk songwriter and storyteller bring his UK tour to Plymouth at the Barbican Theatre at 8pm.

His tour will see the launch of two new albums for the man who has opened for his good friend Seth Wakeman on a number of tours. Tickets from www. barbicantheatre.co.uk or by calling 01752 267131.

Rob Brydon Feb 25

Award-winning comedian and his eight piece band bring the ‘Rob Brydon - A Night of Songs and Laughter’ tour to the Theatre Royal. The evening features Rob’s brilliant stand-up comedy plus songs ranging from Tom Waits to Tom Jones, and Guys and Dolls to Elvis (and almost everything in between), telling Rob’s personal musical journey from South Wales to the West End and beyond. Audiences can expect Rob’s usual warmth and humour, along with his famed gallery of voices, as he regales them with hilarious tales from his distant and recent past. Tickets and further information from www.theatreroyal.com 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.

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NHS funding cut threatens local charity

The Bereavement Counselling Service is a small Plymouth charity which has been in existence for more than 30 years.

The service provides free counselling to people suffering from complex grief or traumatic loss – such as traffic accident, suicide, murder – in Plymouth and the surrounding area.

The aim of the service is to support these people and to enable them to move forward to normal grief and improve their mental health. Around 250 referrals are received from GP surgeries each year.

The NHS have previously funded the service, but due to cutbacks he funding has now been withdrawn and it may be that the service will have to close.

The service is the only organisation providing this specialised counselling in the Plymouth area. All the counsellors and the Board of Trustees are volunteers and there is no charge for accessing the service.

Trish Jones, chairman of the Board, said: “In the current financial climate, the service delivers essential support with no charge to clients. The service is only a small charity and as such, with no advertising budget, we can be overlooked as people donate to the larger charities that are able to advertise in the local media and nationwide.”

The service is now entirely dependent on grants and donations to enable it to offer this essential service.

Anyone who would like to help by making a donation, no matter how small can do so by visiting www.bcsplymouth. com where bank details are available.

Alternatively, please contact the office on 01752 349769 for further information.

Calling all junior badminton players The popular Plymouth Junior Badminton Tournament is taking place in February.

The event, which has been running for more than 50 years, will be held at the Plymouth Life Centre on Sunday February 25.

The tournament caters for all levels of players in singles and doubles at under 11, 14, 16 and 18 years old.

There is also a mixed doubles category in the under 18 age group.

The tournament has been sponsored by Devonport Royal Dockyard Sport and Social Club and there will be many trophies to be won on the day. There will also be merit awards and certificates to reflect the different levels of players involved.

Schools across Plymouth are being sent entry forms or they can be found at www. plymouthbadminton.co.uk/home and go to Fixtures, Results section. Entry forms also available at Plymouth Life Centre.

@PlymChronicle

6 January 2024

Big-hearted march backs care that goes the extra mile

New website charts Central Park’s past A new website has been launched to shine a light on the history of Central Park and the many changes it has seen over the years.

Called a Timeline of Change the website contains a host of information including photos and illustrations which track the park’s history.

Most people know about the legendary zoo that used to be located in Central Park, but few may be aware that the park was once used as a circuit for motorcycle races or that an aircraft landed there when the pilot mistook the park for Roborough airfield.

The lively website provides an insight into Central Park’s many different episodes as it approaches its centenary in 2031.

The new website can be found at www.focpp.org.uk/ GNH_PLYCHRON_196x184_SB5_Nov2023_DEXP 20x3 21/11/2023 09:48 Page 1 timeline

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A mass of big-hearted men will be marching through Plymouth on Saturday April 6 next year to support the compassionate end of life care St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth provides for local families at the toughest of times.

Registration has now opened for the hugely popular Men’s Day Out, an unmissable mix of miles, mates and memories that not only raises funds and awareness, but also opens the door to conversations about grief and bereavement.

This flagship annual event is one of the most popular and memorable happenings on the city’s calendar, with around 2,000 entrants signing up each year to march a 12km circular route, finishing with a pasty, a beverage, and a seat at the rugby.

Walkers and their generous sponsors bring in thousands of pounds each year to help fund St Luke’s invaluable hospice services for patients at home, in hospital and at the charity’s specialist unit at Turnchapel, 365 days a year.

Striding the streets together offers a unique camaraderie for those who have lost loved ones or are facing up to a terminal diagnosis in the family, while doing something positive and uplifting to support people in the local community.

Many take part to remember a friend or family member who was cared for by St Luke’s, and writing their loved one’s name on their official Men’s Day Out T-shirts helps to spur them on as they join the huge throng of men on the move.

Starting and finishing at Plymouth Albion RFC at Devonport, the event will kick off at 10am and follow a marked route through the city centre and along the waterfront, taking in Plymouth Hoe and the Barbican. Back at the rugby ground, walkers can enjoy a well-earned pasty and a beverage before witnessing our local boys in a clash with the Rams from Reading.

Registration for Men’s Day Out costs just £35, but that only covers the official T-shirt, refreshments, rugby ticket and event costs. It’s individual sponsorships and donations that really make a difference, and many entrants set themselves a fundraising target to tot up their total as they mark the miles.

Places are limited so it’s advised to register early for this well-loved event to avoid disappointment and to start rallying sponsors. Visit stlukes-hospice. org.uk/mensdayout.

@PlymChronicle

January 2024

Campaign to raise funds for statue of first Cost of city black rugby player to represent England centre works A campaign has been launched to raise funds for a statue of Jimmy Peters, the first black rugby player to represent England.

Jimmy, who played for Plymouth Albion between 1902 and 1909, played five times for England, but his career was cut short after he suffered an accident in Devonport Dockyard where he worked as a carpenter.

Jimmy also represented Devon and was the star player in the side which won the County Championship in 1906, resulting in the press calling for his selection for the national team.

In 1906 he became embroiled in controversy when the touring South African Springboks objected to him playing against them for Devon, due to his colour. The game was eventually played

after intervention by the South African High Commissioner.

After quitting rugby union he was accepted into rugby league and eventually retired from the sport in 1914 at the age of 35.

He continued to live in Plymouth and died in 1954 aged 74. He is buried in Ford Park Cemetery.

It was another 82 years before a black player represented England again - Chris Oti in 1988.

In his childhood Jimmy spent many years in orphanages after his father was mauled to death by a lion at a circus where he was employed.

One of the orphanages was near Blackheath rugby club and he certainly joined the crowds to watch games and almost certainly played for the club in his early career.

On November 4 Plymouth Albion entertains Blackheath in a National League One encounter at Brickfields. Some of Jimmy’s descendants were present at a special pre-match lunch funded by the Hidden Figures Project in Plymouth and others. Among them was Liam Henderson the great, great, great grandson of Jimmy.

Liam who plays rugby for Plymouth Argaum at Roborough, was chosen as a mascot at the England v South Africa game at Twickenham in November 2021.

The special event at Brickfields provided

tops £16.7m

Work has now started above ground level after months of preparatory work below the surface of Old Town Street and New George Street.

Jimmy Peters

Liam with the opportunity to talk to the audience about Jimmy and the plans for a statue in his memory. A committee is being formed to spearhead the campaign and a fundraising page has been set up for donations with a target of £200,000.

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Three rain gardens have now been installed outside the House of Fraser store as part of a Sustainable Urban Drainage Scheme and work on the landscaping and planting above will begin shortly.

The rain gardens are essentially big holes that have been dug in the ground, then reinforced and layered with material so that at times of very heavy rainfall, the tanks can hold water, helping to reduce the risk of flooding.

They act like a giant plant pot, storing water to irrigate new plants and trees that will be part of the new landscape.

The rain gardens range in size from 16 cubic metres to 30 cubic metres and can handle up to 54 cubic metres of rainwater. And if there’s more rain, there is now a new storm sewer deep beneath New George Street to take the excess and keep flood water from combined sewer system.The new storm sewer system is a series of large plastic pipes – the largest 1.5 metres across and acts as a storage system during heavy rain, holding around 215 cubic metres of rainwater and releasing this gradually via a constrained outfall, known as a hydrobrake.

As well as the rain gardens there will be five more traditional gardens and other seating areas.

The scheme has moved on since contractors Morgan Sindall construction took over the site. There have been further revisions to the scheme, including more seating and more trees to be planted. There will be a total of 28 semi mature trees which are more resilient to an urban setting as well as the four existing large mature trees.

Proposals for a play area have changed, given the exciting proposals for a destination play village unveiled for Armada Way, there will be more planted landscaping instead.In order to finish the entire scheme however more funding is needed and a decision is being signed this week to award a further a £6,077,134 contract to Morgan Sindall.

Although the other gardens in the project don’t provide additional storage as they are not part of the SUDs drainage system, they help to reduce the surface water run-off to the combined sewer and water channels into them to water the trees and other plants.

Above the surface new granite paving is going to be laid to make the area much more attractive, less dated and tired and reduce the likelihood of trips and falls. There will also be new street lighting, decorative lighting to create a wow factor after dark and improved CCTV coverage.

The scheme includes an events space at the junction of Old Town Street and New George Street equipped with power and water and capable of supporting small events and performances. The works are funded from the existing project budget for Old Town Street and New George Street which includes external grant funding from Transforming Cities Fund, Local Economic Partnership, and Historic England’s Heritage Action Zone.

In order to award this contract, an additional allocation of £2,764,767 funded through corporate borrowing needs to be added to the capital budget of the Old Town Street and New George Street public, increasing the total cost to £16,752,850.

8 January 2024

WELCOMING SPACES OPEN TO PLYMOUTH RESIDENTS THIS WINTER

Venues across Plymouth are once again opening their doors this winter to offer people a safe, warm space to spend time in, as part of the city’s cost of living support for residents.

More than 20 Welcoming Spaces, which include churches, libraries and community centres, have already committed to opening during the colder months. The spaces all offer somewhere comfortable to sit down in a warm environment with the chance to meet other people and lots offer extras, such as free activities, advice, Wi-Fi or refreshments.

The warm, welcome spaces were such a success last year that many locations stayed open all year round, running regular community cafes or events to help bring people together and support them during the ongoing cost of living crisis.

Councillor Sue Dann, Cabinet Member responsible for the Cost of Living Plan, said: “We know that our residents are still feeling the continued pressure of the rising cost of living, particularly with food and energy bills, and that will only increase during the cold winter months.

“It’s brilliant to see so many organisations opening their doors to be a Welcoming Space, bringing communities together and offering much needed support to local residents who may be really struggling.

“The Welcoming Spaces not only help people to keep warm but also give people the opportunity to make new friends, to feel part of a community and to access useful advice and support. This is also so important for supporting people’s mental health, particularly as the days grow shorter and colder.”

This winter, libraries in Plymouth will also be running a scheme to help provide people that are struggling due to the cost of living crisis with warm coats.

The ‘Donate a Coat’ scheme will run at four locations: Plymstock, Plympton, Southway and St Budeaux Library.

Residents with any unwanted warm winter coats can donate them at the libraries and anyone who needs one can then pick up a coat for free, with no questions asked.

Donations of adults and children’s coats will be accepted, but they must be clean and in good condition.

Locations of Welcoming Spaces can be found at www.plymouth.gov.uk/welcomingspaces.

Organisations that are interested in registering as a Welcoming Space can also do so via this link.

There is funding available from the Household Support Fund for organisations if they need financial support to open as a Welcoming Space this winter and applications are open funtil November 20.

More cost of living support is available on the council’s online hub: www. plymouth.gov.uk/costofliving.

@PlymChronicle

Millbay housing scheme will create 136 affordable homes Plans for an eco-friendly new neighbourhood in the heart of Plymouth city centre which will create 136 affordable homes for local people to rent and buy have been approved.

Plymouth Community Homes (PCH) has been awarded full planning permission from Plymouth City Council to develop land off Bath Street in the Millbay regeneration area and deliver muchneeded new affordable homes for social rent and shared ownership purchase.

PCH will work in close partnership with Plymouth City Council to fund and deliver the scheme, furthering the authority’s objective to provide new affordable homes for Plymouth whilst supporting the masterplan for the Millbay area to see residential led, mixed-use development of this site, currently used as a temporary car park bordering Martin Street.

The £33.5million scheme involves a new community being created in the city centre offering a range of energy-efficient and affordable new homes, along with businesses, communal gardens and children’s play areas in open green spaces.

There will be 86 homes made available for social rent by local people in housing need, with 54 offered for shared ownership purchase through PCH’s sales brand SO Living, and four commercial units made available for lease.

Construction on the first phase is expected to start next spring. The initial section to be completed will deliver 51 homes for social rent and 29 for shared ownership. Homes will be surrounded by cycle paths with bike stores and pedestrian footpaths to help create a sustainable, low-carbon neighbourhood, and the new community will help to complete the planned Millbay Boulevard scheme, connecting Plymouth’s coastal quarter to the city centre.

The scheme forms part of the partnership agreement between PCH and Plymouth City Council

Artist’s impression of the new housing development

which aims to deliver more than 600 new homes for Plymouth, with at least 444 for affordable housing.

PCH is acquiring the site, primarily owned by Plymouth City Council, with support provided through partnership working with Homes England, which is engaged with the project and providing expertise and support.

Jonathan Cowie, chief executive at Plymouth Community Homes, said: “It’s fantastic news to have secured full planning permission for this exciting new development, which will see a poorly used inner city site transformed into a green neighbourhood with play areas and welcoming, open community spaces, and we are very grateful to our partners on this project, Plymouth City Council, in helping us to bring these plans forward, as well as to Homes England for their partnership working and support.

“We look forward to being able to deliver 136

modern, comfortable and energy-efficient new homes for the people of Plymouth and help address the growing need in the city for good quality affordable housing.”

Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Housing, Cooperative Development and Communities at Plymouth City Council, said: “This couldn’t come at a better time. We have made no secret of the fact we as a city are facing a housing crisis, so to learn that this sizeable and affordable development has got the green light is terrific news.

“This site has been earmarked for regeneration for some time and is part of the city’s vision is to repopulate the city centre and make it a vibrant, exciting place to live in and enjoy, not just shop during the daytime.

“Not only will this scheme create homes, it will breathe new life into this part of the city centre. I can’t wait to see work start on site.”

Council set to buy homes to ease housing crisis Plymouth City Council could be buying up properties across the city as part of a radical solution to ease the city’s ongoing housing crisis.

Cabinet is due to discuss a business case on December 11 to spend up to £10 million and apply for up to £5 million Homes England Affordable Homes Programme grant to buy properties to provide desperately needed homes for Plymouth people as well as tackle ongoing temporary accommodation budget pressures.

Like other cities, Plymouth is facing a homelessness crisis brought about by a combination of factors such as the cost of living and the ongoing economic impact of the pandemic.

These have significantly affected the housing market and people’s ability to meet day to day bills – rent, mortgage, utilities, food, travel etc. The continued impact of rising inflation and the lack of affordable housing has resulted in further demand for housing and homelessness services.

More families and individuals have found themselves homeless because of a declining private rented sector, with landlords selling up or increasing rents to meet their own rising costs. There are fewer homes available in the social housing sector due to homes being sold off and delays in building new houses due to construction costs and labour shortages.

As a result, there’s been a massive increase – 158 per cent – in demand for temporary and shortterm accommodation, with families staying longer in temporary accommodation as there are fewer permanent homes to move into.

Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Housing, Cooperative Development and Communities, said: “The situation is desperate.

Plymouth is experiencing a record amount of people approaching the Council for housing support.

“We are now seeing families with jobs, with children who find themselves simply unable to find a place to live. Landlords are selling up in record numbers, mortgages are going through the roof as well as rent. We have been talking to property agents and for every home that comes up to rent, there are over 100 enquiries.”

The business case proposes using service borrowing of £10 million and a Homes England grant of between £3 and £5 million – if the council’s bid is successful. As well as providing homes, investing in properties could reduce the amount the council spends on temporary accommodation by over £1 million a year.

Councillor Penberthy said: “We are in this insane situation where the average annual cost of a B&B room is £21,797. That’s a room – not a flat or a house – and it’s a room that no one wants to be in.

“If we buy properties and rent them out, these will not only create homes for Plymouth families

who have been made homeless but will massively reduce the amount of money we have to spend on B&Bs and other temporary accommodation such as hotels. We need to take decisive action to address this problem.”

The council has developed an acquisitions strategy and will work closely with developers and registered social landlords. The aim is to look at new builds in the first instance as this would not affect the existing housing stock. New builds also have a 10-year building guarantee as well as a good standard of accommodation.

Other options include renovations using a specialist company to buy and renovate properties.

Once the properties have been acquired, there will be a need for a housing management and maintenance service. The costs of this have been factored into the financial modelling.

Properties acquired will be classified as supported accommodation and the council will provide a family support service, which will help strengthen family stability through improved relationships, financial stability and help to secure more permanent housing and access to services.

In the long term, it is expected that these properties will become available for general social housing. If successful with the grant application, Homes England will fund a proportion of the purchase price, however, the houses will be 100 per cent council owned.

@PlymChronicle

January 2024

Saltram all set for Christmas

9

Gables appeal for help with soaring winter heating bills Gables Dogs & Cats Home takes in nearly 1,000 unwanted and abandoned dogs and cats every year – and that number has increased in 2023 due to the cost of living crisis.

Photos: National Trust Images/SG Haywood Photography

Staff and volunteers add the final touches to the Christmas decorations in the house at the National Trust’s Saltram in Plymouth.

This year’s much-loved event takes the theme of ‘Saltram’s Christmas in Bloom’- celebrating 18th century pleasure garden traditions.

The lavish decorations include a reproduction stage, an alfresco picnic and even a fleet of hot air balloons. There is also a Christmas family trail in the house and gardens.

Saltram’s Christmas in Bloom runs until January 2 2024.

For visiting times and for information about tickets – which must be booked in advance visit the Saltram website at www. nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/devon/saltram/christmas-at-saltram

The charity is now appealing for help with its winter heating bills which have increased dramatically over the last 12 months.

It is vitally important that their rescued animals are provided with the best during their stay at Gables and their pens must be kept warm and comfortable at all times. There are 76 cat pens and 71 dog kennels and during the winter months lots of donated duvets and blankets are used to help keep the animals warm and cosy.But their heating bills have now soared to over £15,000 for the winter months and the charity is hoping local people can help with donations.

General Manager Claire Sparkes said: “The huge increase in our heating costs is really shocking and means we have to ask our wonderful supporters for their help again. Winter is always a challenging time for us as the run up to Christmas brings in lots of old animals that people discard to make room for the Christmas puppy or kitten. Any donation will make a huge difference and help us to continue to be there for these vulnerable dogs and cats.”

Donations can be made in several ways including online at www. justgiving.com/campaign/wha23-24 or via Paypal at www.paypal.me/ gablesdogsandcats. Alternatively call 01752 331602.

Struggling with the cost of living?

There’s help available in Plymouth Our online Cost of Living hub has more information about the financial advice and guidance on offer. Visit www.plymouth.gov.uk/costofliving to find out more about: • Benefits: Check you’re claiming everything you’re entitled to

Loan sharks

• Budgeting: Discover free budget planner tools to help you understand what you’re spending money on and how you could cut costs

Be aware of illegal money lenders, known as loan sharks.

• Savings: Learn how to get started with saving and sign up to the Help to Save scheme if you’re on a low income

• Pose as your friend and draw you in with a loan, no questions asked

• Debt: If you are struggling with debt, find where you can speak to a trained and experienced debt advisor, either online or in person.

Or you can call StepChange on 0800 138 1111.

• Add huge amounts of interest on what you owe

• Gambling: If gambling is causing you problems, find local support services or contact The National Gambling Helpline 24/7 on 0808 8020 133.

Financial help and advice

Loan sharks may: • Not provide any paperwork or receipts • Become aggressive and threaten you and your family if payments are missed or late • Take valuables or personal documents as security.

If you recognise any of these signs or are involved with a loan shark, Stop Loan Sharks can help.

Call 0300 555 2222 or visit www.stoploansharks.co.uk

@PlymChronicle

10 January 2024

Plymouth’s ‘Full of Life’ plan to help residents age well

Plymouth City Council is committing to making the city a great place for people to grow old by supporting residents to live life to the full.

‘Full of Life’, the council’s new ageing well programme, will work to support two groups of older people: those who are well, by helping them to stay well and those impacted by the consequences of ageing.

The key themes of the Full of Life programme are: Healthy ageing: supporting people to live healthily Age-friendly places: making spaces and buildings accessible, welcoming, safe and inclusive Participation and inclusion: ensuring that activities are financially, culturally and physically accessible and celebrating the contributions of older people to their communities Skills and employment: giving older people the opportunity to develop new skills and pass on their experience to others Communication: making communications inclusive and using positive imagery and language when talking about older people.

A city-wide steering group will be set up with members from the Council, charities and community groups that work with older people, and representatives from the local Senior Citizens Form and Plymouth Area Disability Action Network.

This group will oversee the development of a baseline assessment, strategy, action plan and evaluation framework for Full of Life, which is expected to be a long-term programme running over the coming years.

There are plans to support communities across Plymouth to be more age-friendly and a new ‘Full of Life’ charter will also be created. This will encourage organisations across the city to apply age-friendly principles and celebrate those who make efforts to become more inclusive.

The plan was due to be discussed at the council’s next Cabinet meeting on December 11.

Councillor Mary Aspinall, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said: “Our vision is for Plymouth to be one of Europe’s most vibrant waterfront cities, where an outstanding quality of life is enjoyed by everyone and where age is no barrier.

“There are lots of things we can do to make this vision a reality, and we hope that organisations and businesses across the city will join us on the journey so that collectively we are doing what we can to support older people.

“This is really important when you consider that we have an ageing population. It is vital that all older people are valued, empowered, healthy and able to contribute fully to society.”

City college students create special mural to mark success in Ten Tors City College Plymouth has unveiled a special mural to commemorate its longstanding success at the Ten Tors Jubilee Challenge event. The mural was created by the college’s Skills Development students, under the guidance of tutor Sue Evans.

The artwork, symbolising years of dedication and achievement, was unveiled at Plymouth Council House marking its long-term loan to the City Council.

The Ten Tors Challenge sees 2,400 teenagers in 400 teams navigate routes up to 55 miles across the northern half of Dartmoor, visiting ten nominated Tors in under two days. This test of endurance and teamwork requires the teams to be self-sufficient, carrying everything they need for their journey and an overnight stay.

In line with this spirit of adventure and resilience, the artwork has been meticulously designed by Skills Development students at the college.

The mural itself uses a variety of fabrics, including pure silk for the sky and calico for backing, reflecting the diverse textures of Dartmoor’s landscape. Designed for sensory benefit, the artwork features silk, wool, and fur, added through appliqué and quilting to enhance its tactile appeal.

This not only makes the wall hanging a visual delight but also a sensory experience, inviting touch and exploration.

The mural, a vibrant depiction of a walker traversing the Dartmoor landscape, captures the essence of the challenge with its portrayal of a classic moorland scene, complete with a Tor, native wildlife, and a picturesque sunset.

Pictured in front of the mural at Plymouth Council House (from left): Retired City College lecturer Chris Little, Skills Development programme manager Michael Dugdale, City College Plymouth chief executive, Jackie Grubb, lecturer for Learning Difficulties and Disabilities Sue Evans, Lord Mayor of Plymouth Mark Shayer, chairman of the Arts Society South Devon Jane Howlett, Deputy Lord Mayor Kathy Watkin and Consort, Councillor Zoe Reilly

The artistic representation not only celebrates the natural beauty of the college’s local environment, but honours the Skills Development department’s participation in the Ten Tors Jubilee Challenge, for nearly three decades.

Jackie Grubb, City College Plymouth’s chief executive, said: “In our vibrant city we’ve embraced a dedicated commitment to collaborative efforts aimed at empowering and uplifting our young people with special educational needs and disabilities. The strategic partnership forged between the college and Plymouth City Council has enabled us to enhance the lives and experiences of those with high needs across our city and wider region.

“Our students’ beautiful mural showcases our dedication to providing an inclusive learning environment, where students with diverse needs are empowered to create and contribute in meaningful ways. It not only celebrates our students’ participation in the Ten Tors Challenge but also highlights our commitment to accessible education for all.

“I couldn’t be happier to see it displayed in the heart of the city of Plymouth.”

By providing tailored support, adaptive learning materials, and an inclusive atmosphere, City College Plymouth champions the belief that education should be accessible and enriching for every student, regardless of their individual needs.

the NSPCC’s Pantosaurus mascot in their ‘Santa’s Pants’ design to create an explosion of colour on their tree.

Mel Wensley, assistant company secretary at Princess Yachts, said: “It is really wonderful to have won the NSPCC Festival of Trees competition this year, but the real credit goes to the Year One

children from St Andrew’s C of E Primary School, who designed and made the decorations.

“We have supported this wonderful NSPCC initiative for several years now, but last year, decided to involve local primary schools to help us theme and design the decorations. It was so well supported that we decided to do it again this year and once again the response from the schools was incredible.

“The ‘Santa’s Pants’ theme designed by the pupils in Year One at St Andrew’s seemed especially fitting as the inspiration came from another really powerful NSPCC campaign idea; Talk PANTS and the Pantosaurus. The cheekiness of the ‘Santa’s Pants’ proposal brought a real smile to the office.

“We owe a huge thank you to the children of St Andrew’s and we hope that they enjoy the tickets we donated for them to see Goldilocks & The Three Bears at the Theatre Royal - it is certainly very well deserved.”

Second prize in the competition went to first-time sponsor Larry Speare; while Dance Fusion were highly commended for their efforts.

Ross Ayling, head of visitor experience at Theatre Royal said: “We’re delighted to once again host the NSPCC’s Festival of Trees which we have been doing for 27 years. The calibre of entries gets better each year and the trees certainly add to the festive atmosphere here at the theatre.”

The Festival of Trees will remain open for view during the festive season for visitors to Theatre Royal Plymouth.

Festival of Trees at Theatre Royal Plymouth raises more than £12,000 for the NSPCC Plymouth primary schoolchildren have taken top honours after their decorated Christmas tree was judged to be the best at a Festival of Trees, raising more than £12,000 for the NSPCC. The 27th annual display of Christmas trees is hosted by Theatre Royal Plymouth in the heart of the city with dozens of brightly decorated trees on display around the theatre foyer.

Each year local businesses, organisations and clubs come together to decorate the trees and help raise money for children’s charity the NSPCC. In total 29 trees and more than 30 garlands have been created for the festival.

Alison Armer, NSPCC community fundraising manager said: “We would like to thank everyone who has taken part in this year’s Festival of Trees in Plymouth. Special thanks to our dedicated volunteers for giving so much of their time organising the festival and to Theatre Royal Plymouth for hosting the event for the 27 th year.

“All of the trees and garlands look fantastic and we are so grateful for all the sponsors and decorators for their time, creativity and skill to make them look so wonderful. We are delighted to have raised such a significant amount of money which will help support NSPCC services and keep children safe.”

This year, first prize went to St Andrew’s C of E Primary School after children joined together with Plymouth based Princess Yachts to decorate a tree. The children incorporated

Children from St Andrew’s Primary and Princess Yachts celebrate their success

New service for older people is now open in Plymouth A new health and wellbeing centre for the over-50s is now open in the grounds of a historic mansion near Plymouth and ready to take referrals to the day service.

The day service provision, at Pearn Estate, in Hartley, will lay on social activities as well hot meals and refreshments. The Well Being Centre will also offering services like a disabled friendly shower facility, Arjo Spa Bath, hairdresser, consultation rooms for health professionals, all of these are in addition to the Day Service so can be accessed separately.

The aim is to boost services on offer for older people in the region at a time when many health services in the region are being stretched.

Nicola Williams, who will manage the new facility for Network Healthcare, part of the Pertemps Network Group, said: “This is very exciting for all of us. Since the pandemic, services have changed and a lot more is being asked of families to support vulnerable people.

“We think this is a much-needed service for Plymouth, offering a homely atmosphere with our experienced staff. We are hoping to create a valuable centre to support local people.”

Network Healthcare is a national Care Quality Commission registered company which already runs a number of services in Plymouth, including a child contact centre and social care community projects.

The Pearn is a Grade II listed building dating back to the 1890s.

For more information, visit www.networkhsc.co.uk

@PlymChronicle

12 January 2024

New director for Children’s Services is appointed

Plymouth City Council has announced the appointment of a new key senior manager to lead services for children, young people and families across the city.

David Haley, who has been the interim Strategic Director for Children’s Services (DCS) since the end of July will now take up the role permanently. His responsibilities will include Children’s Social Care and safeguarding, Early Intervention and Prevention, Youth Offending, Education, Participation and Skills and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

David brings to the role extensive experience in the delivery, management and leadership of public services through improving and supporting services for children, young people, education and SEND. He started his career as a teacher and has worked in children’s services for over 30 years.

David has undertaken a number of roles, including headteacher, director of education and inclusion and diirector of children’s services in two local authorities. He has David Haley led transformation and improvement in children’s social care, education, learning and skills, Local Area SEND Partnerships and Youth Justice Services.

Since starting at the council, David has focused on delivering improvements at the ‘front door’ to children’s services and in services for children and young people with SEND following a joint inspection of the local area SEND partnership earlier this year. Central to this work is a new partnership improvement plan that sets out clear priorities and areas for improvement and aims to rebuild trust and confidence in the local SEND system.

David said: “I am passionate about making a difference for children and young people and delivering change and improvement where needed.

“It’s my strong belief that no child should be disadvantaged or left behind and this is something I always have in my mind when delivering children’s services. We need to keep asking ourselves, what else can we do? How can we improve the lives of children, young people and families who need our support?

“I am excited to be able to continue to work with a committed and passionate team and partners that really work well together to make sure that we deliver. I am committed to continuing our improvement journey, sustain and embed the progress that has been made and lead further significant cultural, strategic and organisational change that will deliver improved outcomes for children, young people and their families.”

Councillor Sally Cresswell, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Apprenticeships, said: “Since David has been with us, he has really demonstrated his significant experience of leading change, working in partnership with staff and partners and he has a solid track record of developing strong collaborative partnerships, internally and externally.

“Work on our improvement journey for children and young people with SEND continues and is an absolute priority. I’m confident with that with David’s proven track record, and the work that he has already delivered, he is well equipped to lead the way, ensuring every child and young person in Plymouth gets the very best start in life.”

Pictured at the Caring Plymouth launch are (from left) Jack Davies, health and social care coordinator; Neil Eastwood, author of ‘Saving Social Care’; Emma Crowther, interim head of commissioning at Plymouth City Council; Councillor Mary Aspinall, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care; David McAuley, programme director of Plymouth Local Care Partnership; Tracey Lee, chief executive of Plymouth City Council; Emma Hewitt, skills lead at Plymouth City Council and Lauren Parker-Smith, health and social care coordinator.

Caring Plymouth to promote health and social care careers More support will be available for people who want to start or progress their career in the health and social care sector thanks to a new city-wide partnership.

Working on behalf of the city’s health and social care employers, the Caring Plymouth partnership will work together to connect local people with opportunities for skills, training, education, careers and jobs.

Caring Plymouth aims to support the need for a sustainable skilled workforce, with an initial focus on tackling staff recruitment and retention in adult social care.

The Plymouth City Council-led partnership will help people to access training and education so they can develop the skills needed for a career pathway in health or social care. This will support residents to find the right jobs for them, filling vitally important job vacancies in the city to help relieve some of the pressure on the wider health and care system.

There are currently more than 200 vacancies in adult social care, with the majority of these in domiciliary care roles. These roles provide care to adults living in their own homes, enabling them to keep their independence.

Caring Plymouth aims to improve the information, advice and guidance that is available to people new to the sector, as well as supporting the existing workforce with career progression. To support better access to training and education, a new Adult Social Care Skills and Training Directory is under development and due for release in 2024.

The partnership will also host a new awards ceremony, Plymouth’s Celebrating Excellence in Care Awards. This event, set to be held in March 2024, will celebrate and recognise the hard work of the city’s valued frontline care workers.

Councillor Mary Aspinall, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said: “I’m absolutely thrilled that we’re launching Caring Plymouth.

Making Plymouth a great place to grow up and grow old in is one of our key priorities and ensuring that the right care is available for people is incredibly important.

“Across the sector there are clear challenges with both recruitment and retention. While this problem is not exclusive to Plymouth, we are determined to address it and we’re taking a collaborative approach. The initial focus of Caring Plymouth will be on adult social care as that is currently where the largest pressure is – if there aren’t enough care workers then we cannot provide care packages, and this can create a backlog in hospitals which means beds aren’t free for new patients.

“Working in adult social care is highly rewarding and all of our care employees are so highly valued in the city, so we want to get much better at celebrating them and encouraging people to pursue these roles as a career choice. There are opportunities for people to develop and progress into more senior roles and there are lots of jobs available. Caring Plymouth will work to promote this, supporting existing workers so they feel supported and more likely to stay in their job roles,

as well as reaching out to potential new recruits.”

Neil Eastwood, author of the book ‘Saving Social Care - How to find more of the best frontline care employees and keep the ones you have’ and founder and CEO of Care Friends, spoke at the Caring Plymouth launch event. He said: “Health and care sectors across the UK and internationally are facing huge and worsening workforce challenges. Local responses to these challenges are commonly piecemeal and uncoordinated.

That is why it is so exciting to see Plymouth bring stakeholders together with a clear mission and a strong combined offer to both those considering a career in health and care and those already in the workforce. Caring Plymouth shows what is possible and I am sure it will be held up as an example of how by working together we can tackle this challenge effectively.”

The delivery model for Caring Plymouth is based on the successful partnership Building Plymouth, which connects people with career opportunities in construction and the built environment. The new partnership will take a similar joined-up approach to tackling a second growth sector for the city and is set to change the way individuals are recruited and transitioned into vital roles.

A new city-wide recruitment campaign will be launching soon to highlight the opportunities available in adult social care, connecting residents with the Caring Plymouth team who can help them to access training, apply for the right roles and/or progress their careers.

To find out more visit www.skillslaunchpadplym. co.uk/caringplymouth

‘EXCELLENT’ RATING FOR WATER QUALITY AT DEVIL’S POINT Water quality at the popular bathing spot Devil’s Point has been rated ‘Excellent’ by the Environment Agency in their 2023 results.

Devil’s Point and Firestone Bay swimming area was designated as an official bathing water after a campaign by Luke Pollard MP. The test results from the regular water testing at Devil’s Point and Firestone Bay have been aggregated across the summer period to create a baseline for the bathing water and led to the top rating.

Luke Pollard said: “As a regular wild

swimmer at Firestone Bay, I know that the water there is special. We now know it is excellent in terms of water quality. This will be a boost for those who swim there and visit this special part of Plymouth.

“The timing of this result could not be better with news coming from South West Water this week that work will soon start on closing the two raw sewage outlets from a private sewer at Firestone Bay. “Too much sewage is still spilled into our rivers, lakes and seas and that needs to stop.

Excellent bathing water status means there

will be even more priority to stop any sewage spills near to Devil’s Point in the future. This campaign has been a win-win for Plymouth and I’m grateful to all those who helped me achieve this status.”

South West Water have confirmed that they have appointed a contractor to work on closing two raw sewage outlets releasing untreated human effluent from a private sewer. This work should begin in the coming months and help ensure that incidents of raw sewage at Devil’s Point are still further reduced. See story on back page.

January 2024

@PlymChronicle

13

City College Plymouth partners with Plymouth Active Leisure to shape the city’s future of health and wellbeing

City College Plymouth has embarked on an innovative partnership with Plymouth Active Leisure, strengthening its commitment to the educational, cultural, and economic prosperity of Plymouth.

The collaboration, designed to enhance both education and employment opportunities, marks a significant step in the college’s engagement with industry leaders to address key needs in the health and wellbeing sector.

The health and wellbeing sector in Plymouth is at a critical juncture. It’s a field experiencing rapid growth, partly due to the city’s demographic trends and partly because of a heightened public awareness of health and wellness. The sector is anticipated to offer a substantial number of new employment opportunities in the coming years, with estimates suggesting up to 5,000 new jobs - a rate of growth that eclipses many other industries.

This expansion is not just in traditional healthcare roles but also in emerging areas outside of a sports provision, such as marketing, management and hospitality - all of which are poised to transform Plymouth’s economic landscape. In response to these trends, the college’s partnership with Plymouth Active Leisure aims to integrate practical industry insights into the college’s diverse curriculum. With plans to offer joint working sessions, guest lectures, and work experience opportunities, students at the college will be given the opportunity to hone the skills required to acquire gainful employment in the sector.

The initiative promises to provide students with invaluable hands-on experience, fostering a seamless transition to employment so that they are workforce ready.

Pauline Hands, executive of health, leisure & public services at City College Plymouth, emphasised the significance of this partnership.

She said: “Our collaboration with Plymouth Active Leisure is a testament to our commitment to providing education that is both relevant and responsive to the needs of the industry.

“By working together, we are able to offer our students unique learning opportunities that align with the real-world demands of the health and wellbeing sector, ensuring that they are well-

Pictured (centre) are Councillor Sue Dann, Rhys Jones, chief executive of Plymouth Active Leisure, City College chief executive Jackie Grubb, programme lead Josh Hookins and Pauline Hands executive of health, leisure and public services at City College. They were joined by colleagues from Plymouth Active Leisure and City College Plymouth

Lions Club president Bob Dight exchanged pennants with Fernando to commemorate the joining.

Fernando gave Plymouth members an insight into the work being carried out by his Mother Club to demonstrate the differences and likenesses being administered by Lions Club members on the other side of the world.

He said that since its formation, Lions Club of Moratuwa has organised hundreds of events raising funds for many charities and needy cases in Moratuwa and the wider Sri Lanka. Apart from fundraising, they offer support by

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prepared for successful careers.

“This partnership isn’t just about education; it’s a comprehensive response to the health and wellbeing challenges facing our city. Through this partnership, we’re committed to preparing a workforce that’s not only skilled but also passionate about making a difference in the health sector.”

The partnership agreement was signed by the college’s chief executive Jackie Grubb, along with Rhys Jones, chief executive of Plymouth Active Leisure and in the presence of Councillor Sue Dann, Cabinet Member for Customer Services, Sport, Leisure, HR and OD. Rhys said: “Plymouth Active Leisure is delighted to be collaborating with City College to make sure we offer the best opportunities for our workforce to develop, learn new skills and create lasting careers with us and to make sure the college offers world class relevant qualifications for maximum employability.

“As two organisations within the city and with

its people at our heart, we will do everything we can to improve the health and wellbeing of our communities, customers and our students for years to come.”

Councillor Sue Dann said: “It’s fantastic to see Plymouth Active and City College Plymouth teaming up in this way to share knowledge and expertise and help shape the future of sport and leisure provision in the city. This will provide valuable skills and experience for students, ensure that courses are tailored to best meet the needs of the sector locally and ultimately help to improve the health and wellbeing of our residents.

“By integrating industry expertise with academic excellence, this partnership is poised to set new standards in health education and community wellbeing, making it a beacon of innovation and progress in the region.”

As City College Plymouth and Plymouth Active Leisure move forward together, they are charting a course towards a healthier, more vibrant future for all residents of Plymouth.

LIONS CLUB WELCOME NEW MEMBER FROM SRI LANKA

Plymouth Lions Club have welcomed Lion Nuwan Fernando as an associate member from the Lions Club of Moratuwa in Sri Lanka, who is in Plymouth to further his career opportunities.

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organising community-based projects, including annual assistance for school children in Moratuwa by providing foods, books, uniforms, shoes and clothes for their parents.

The club also helps the elderly, provides musical events, conduct blood donor sessions, plant trees, donates glasses and run a diabetic awareness programme.

Upon completion of his presentation Lion Nuwan Fernando answered many questions, particularly in connection with the 2004 Tsunami which the islanders had experienced. He also gave gifts to each Lion member present at the meeting.

It is hoped that Lion Nuwan Fernando will become a permeant member of the Lions Club of Plymouth early in the New Year.

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14 January 2024

Plymouth’s Arts University receives the Kindness in Education Award Arts University Plymouth has won a Kindness in Education Award 2023, recognising the arts university’s collective work to build a kinder and more compassionate university and an inclusive community for staff and students.

Tops Day Nurseries among best in UK for development of apprentices Tops Day Nurseries, which runs five nurseries in Plymouth, has been named as one of the top apprenticeship employers in the country.

The leading childcare provider was ranked 12th out of 100 top Apprenticeship Employers in the large employer category by the Department for Education.

The prestigious award, which recognises the best in apprenticeship programmes, highlighted Tops Day Nurseries’ commitment to fostering a culture of learning and professional development within the organisation.

The award acknowledges employers for their exceptional achievements in various aspects, and Tops Day Nurseries excelled in several key areas including the number of apprenticeship starts with a total of 118 new apprentices from Level 2 to Level 7 starting their journey in the last year.

It was also commended for promoting diversity and inclusion with apprentices aged from to 16 to 25 plus, including 14 from ethnic minorities and 15 with learning difficulties.

Tops Day Nurseries places a strong emphasis on supporting its apprentices throughout their learning journey. A total of 84 apprentices successfully completed their apprenticeships between March 2022 and March 2023: the high success rate confirming its dedication to providing apprentices with the necessary tools and support to thrive in their roles.

Cheryl Hadland, founder and chairwoman at Tops said; “Our 12th position among the UK’s Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers reflects our commitment to nurturing talent and fostering inclusivity.

“This achievement showcases our dedication to providing exceptional opportunities for career progression and personal development within the childcare sector.”

Tops Day Nurseries has settings in Bretonside, Devonport, Efford, Prince Rock and Stonehouse.

Professor Paul Fieldsend-Danks, ViceChancellor for Arts University Plymouth, collected the award on behalf of the university at Kindfest 2023. The Kindness in Education Award was awarded by TeamKind, a community interest company powered by volunteers who believe that kindness can change the world and that right now kindness is needed more than ever.

Professor Paul Fieldsend-Danks said: “It was a privilege to accept the Kindness in Education Award on behalf of Arts University Plymouth and we’re very happy to see the changes that we’re making within our community being recognised in this way.

“Arts University Plymouth was awarded University Title in May 2022, becoming the UK’s newest arts university, and we’re determined to do things differently. We believe that Professor authenticity, fulfilment Paul and kindness are indexical Fieldsendqualities in the process of Danks thinking, making and living.

“Education is the act of turning students towards the world that they live in, to inspire students to want to exist in and care for the world, and to act with kindness as both a method and a means to enact change and deliver positive outcomes.”

“At every level of Arts University Plymouth, we’re working to embed kindness into our decision-making processes, our community and our daily lives. We’re on a journey together and I hope that in time every staff member and every student will see kindness as something to be celebrated and encouraged.

In an increasingly polarised world, we want our students and our colleagues to know

that they belong to a community where compassion is one of our core values.”

The work that Professor Paul FieldsendDanks leads was nominated for the Kindness in Education Award by Jenny Evans, a lecturer in BA (Hons) Fashion Media & Marketing and BA (Hons) Textile Design at Arts University Plymouth.

Jenny said: “My colleagues at Arts University Plymouth are among the kindest group of people who I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with. It’s a pleasure to work at a university where my own values are reflected in the strategies that lead our work and encouraged by my colleagues.

“I’m proud that we can offer a tolerant, inclusive and welcoming environment for our students and that we’re empowered to support them in approaching their studies and creative practices in the spirit of compassion. Put simply, we’re working together to do what we can to make the world a better place.”

The Kindness in Education Award is the latest in a series of notable achievements for Arts University Plymouth since becoming the UK’s newest arts university in 2022.

Arts University Plymouth was recently awarded Silver in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) by the Office for Students (OfS), recognising that experiences and outcomes are typically of very high quality for all groups of students.

Students voted Arts University Plymouth as the top arts university in the UK for overall student satisfaction in the National Student Survey (NSS) 2022, and rated the university above the national benchmark in all categories and the highest scoring arts university in the UK in five of the seven categories of the NSS 2023.

Arts University Plymouth also achieved Silver in the Small or Specialist Institution category of the Whatuni Student Choice Awards in 2023 and Gold in the same category in 2022.

The university is currently ranked as a top 10 university in the Arts, Drama & Music League Table 2024 in the Complete University Guide, and as the sixth top university in the UK for studying Interior Design in the Guardian University Guide 2024.

MP encourages members of Youth Parliament Plymouth MP Johnny Mercer met with members of Plymouth Youth Parliament at a reception at the Houses of Parliament for the launch of the ‘What About Me? A Child’s Right to Matter Report.’

The report explores the views and needs of children and young people when parents separate.

Plymouth Youth Parliament has contributed to the report, providing the voices of young people in Plymouth. Members of the city-wide youth forum gave a presentation to the audience in support of the launch.

Johnny Mercer said: “It is always a great pleasure to meet with Plymouth Youth Parliament.

There is a wealth of young talent in our city. They have an important contribution to make in our political conversations.

MP Johnny Mercer pictured chatting with members of the Plymouth Youth Parliament

Plymouth’s delegates Sofia and Romana did superbly well delivering an important message on support for children of separated parents. They both did Plymouth proud.”

Jenny Way, a youth worker at Plymouth City Council, added: “We are so grateful that Johnny Mercer attended to support us and that he spent a lot of time talking to the young people and

us as workers, which was really engaging and a lot of fun. I look forward to linking in with him regarding the care experienced councils we also run to support our looked after young people.

“The voice of the child should be heard by everyone: the work Plymouth Youth Parliament undertook clearly showed and evidenced the concerns young people have when their parents decide to separate. All children and young people need a trusted adult they can turn too outside of the home if they want to ask questions and seek help and support.

“We are urging the Government to take account of the report and be clear on next steps and who will continue to advocate for better services for children and young people.”

January 2024

@PlymChronicle

15

Barnardo’s helps Plymouth with the challenges of parenthood Parents in Plymouth will be able to get extra help and support with the challenges of raising a family thanks to a new service which has been launched by the children’s charity Barnardo’s.

They will be able to sign up for advice in everything from how their baby’ s brain develops to the best ways of encouraging a good night’s sleep or moving on to solid food – and they can access it all without leaving the house.

Parents referred to the new 1,001 Days pilot will be able to join virtual sessions via their phone, tablet or computer where they can interact with experts, swap tips with other parents, ask questions, watch videos and find the solutions to their parenting dilemmas.

The sessions will be very informal with the chance to keep cameras off or get fully involved with discussions, and no one will mind if parents take a break to pacify a teething baby or keep an eye on a demanding toddler.

Some of the sessions will be available in the evenings and weekends to make it as easy as possible for parents to take part, including those who work. They will be in addition to the current support offered by the city’s Family Hubs.

Tracy Tucker, Barnardo’s children’ s services manager, said: “Plymouth is one of just three areas across the country to benefit from our 1,001 Days pilot and parents will have unique access to sessions with our childcare experts.

“We understand that travelling to a venue can be difficult when you have small children so by holding the sessions virtually we will be making it easier for people to join in. It won’t just be someone talking to them, it’ ll be very relaxed with chance to take part in quizzes and swap tips.”

The 1,001 Days pilot has begun with a six-week Understanding Your Baby course, with sessions held once a week. Parents need to be referred to the pilot and this can be done by their midwife, health visitor, GP or by parents requesting a referral through the Plymouth Family Hub. In addition, any Plymouth parent can access Barnardo’ s online Virtual Family Space which has a wealth of resources covering pregnancy, childhood and adolescence, with specialist advice for parents of young people with additional needs up to the age of 25.

Tracy said: “Absolutely anyone can access the Barnardo’ s Virtual Family Space at any time, and it covers all stages of parenting. There is a wealth or reliable information with links to further, trusted support.”

The advice ranges from keeping children’s teeth healthy to planning family meals on a budget, from dealing with tantrums to accessing financial support for free fruit and vegetables.

The pilot has been welcomed by Plymouth City Council. Councillor Sally Cresswell, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Apprenticeships, said: “Barnardo’s is one of our key partners in the city in developing Plymouth’s new Family Hubs.

“The Virtual Family Space offers our parents something extra and the choice of getting advice and support and linking up with other parents from home. This is without all the logistical challenges of travelling with a young child, particularly at this time of the year when the weather can make it difficult to get out and about.

“We welcome being one of the three areas nationally to trial this new approach to working with our parents.”

The Barnardo’s Virtual Family Space is at https://families.barnardos.org.uk/.

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PLYMOUTH ARTS CINEMA LAUNCHES £10,000 CROWDFUNDER TO SECURE ITS FUTURE Plymouth Arts Cinema has launched a Crowdfunder campaign to raise £10,000 to secure its future.

The unique organisation has been part of cultural life in Plymouth since 1947 but it is at risk. Backing the Crowdfunder will help it to invest in vital upgrades to equipment and to continue to offer affordable tickets for everyone.

A spokesperson for the cinema said: “We live in challenging times for independent cinema. Plymouth Arts Cinema’s team is passionate about securing its future for years to come and is asking for help to make it a sustainable and affordable venue for the whole community.”

Rewards have been donated by Plymouth Arts Cinema’s suppliers and cultural partners including Salcombe Dairy, Summerskills Brewery, Canton Tea, wine from Tolchards, Ocean Studios and Plymouth Gin Distillery.

Also on offer are Plymouth Arts Cinema mugs, tote bags, pin badges, film posters, memberships to see unlimited films, pay it forward tickets, and cinema hire.

Plymouth Arts Cinema screens films from around the world that you cannot see anywhere else in the city, host talks with special guests from the film industry, supports local filmmakers, runs archive film screenings, Bringing in Baby Events, Relaxed and Inclusive Screenings.

It works in partnership with many other

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cultural organisations, schools and colleges and grass-roots organisations to host film events which raise awareness about the environment and climate change and issues facing society today.

It is Plymouth’s only independent cinema and in 2019 moved from its original home

at Plymouth Arts Centre on Looe Street, to the new, custom built 118 seat cinema at Arts University Plymouth’s main campus on Tavistock Place.

The Crowdfunder campaign can be found at www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/future-ofplymouth-arts-cinema

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16 January 2024

Top photography award for Arts University student A photography student from Arts University Plymouth has snapped up a top award in a prestigious photography competition.

how far I have come in such a short period of time.”

Shelby is one of many BA (Hons) Commercial Photography students who have produced award-winning photography during their recent studies at Arts University Shelby Nolan-Hoare, who is studying commercial Plymouth. photography at the university, was the winner of the First-class graduate Katy Johnson achieved second place People’s Choice fashion category at the this year’s British in the Wex Student Photography Competition, Official Photography Awards with her captivating image titled Selection in the International Photography Awards (IPA) ‘Dolls House.’ in 2023 and an Honourable Mention in the 2022 Awards.

Final-year student Shelby said: “Winning the People’s Matthew Marshall, a talented Choice was an incredibly proud second-year student, clinched moment. When I found out a win in the prestigious EIZO UK that I was one of 25 shortlisted Student Awards. He was recognised photographers in the fashion in the single image category for category, I couldn’t believe it. his captivating photograph of the “The overwhelming support that iconic Plymouth landmark, Tinside I received from family, friends and Lido. local groups both in Plymouth and Shelby’s winning image at the Hampshire was surreal. Looking at British Photography Awards was the other talented photographers part of her final major project, in my category, I was not expecting titled ‘Liminal Space’. The project to win and the honour of being was curated to explore how shortlisted alone was rewarding. clothing, prop and set design can “When Magic Radio presenter be used as a narrative device in Neev Spencer announced my name picture making to discuss themes as the People’s Choice winner and of nostalgia and illusion. The I saw my picture on the big screen, composition features a model in a me and my family were in complete topsy-turvy world, appearing like shock. To earn this title as a a life-size doll in front of a doll’s student photographer is a major Shelby with her award house. achievement and I’m so proud of

Shelby’s winning image

GUILDHALL GLEAMING THANKS TO RESTORATION PROJECT

The outside of Plymouth Guildhall has been getting some TLC as part of a project to repair, restore and clean the stonework.

The landmark building is getting a facelift to clean up and repair the effects of decades of pollution and salty sea air, which has damaged stonework and detailing.

The Guildhall, including Great Hall, Assize Courts and City Treasury, was originally built in the 1870s but reduced to a shell during the Blitz. The buildings survived – by one single council vote in 1951 – the threat of demolition and became a focus of Plymouth’s rebuilding and the most significant survival from the bombed city centre.

It was one of the few damaged buildings to be restored rather than rebuilt. Now 70 years later stonework is being repaired, renewed and in some cases, the stonemasons are undoing work that was completed in a time when there was less knowledge about how to look after old buildings.

The work – which started at the end of last year – involves repairs to the stonework on all sides of the building. Cement used in earlier repairs has been replaced with a sympathetic

lime render which would have been used historically, allowing the building to breathe better.

Features and figures that are once more gleaming include the Portland Stone carvings at ground level. There are 12 flanking carved figures incorporated in the north aisle wall with the 13th being the ‘Coronation’.

The figures are described as sermons in stone; each having a meaning which has been taken from the book ‘Sermons of the Panels of the new Guildhall, Plymouth’ by Rev. R.W. Whitley published in 1876.

The scaffolding is now being removed from the northern side and the front, with its unusual wavey entrance canopy, is next in line for work including repairs, cleaning and waterproofing. As the building is listed, the project has been carried out under the guidance of a conservation and heritage officer from the council.

JNE are the main contractors for the works and have sourced High Tech Services Limited to carry out the surveys, historic repair specifications and structural advice and Westcountry Stonemasons have carried out

the repairs and masonry specialist works. All the companies are locally based.

Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet member for Housing, Cooperative Development and Communities, said: “We’ve been doing a lot of work to make sure buildings in the city centre are the best they can be.

“This is one of the few buildings to survive the Blitz. It has a lot of history and is held in a lot of affection by the people of Plymouth. We need to look after it and make sure it is ready for the next 100 years of being at the heart of this city.”

The restoration project costs £750,000 and is being funded through the improvements to the council’s corporate estate pot. As well as a makeover to the outside of this historic building, a huge internal transformation is planned to update facilities to attract more people to events, gigs and concerts at the venue.

Work was due to start this month, but it has been delayed slightly for more detailed discussions with companies that have submitted bids to do the work. It is now not expected to start until the new year.

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One of the stone figures under restoration

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Now Laira Green Primary pupils to be offered NHS dental appointments NHS dental appointments are set to be offered to children at Laira Green Primary School by the Peninsula Dental School.

The Peninsula Dental School’s new pilot scheme, which involves creating additional dental appointments by the Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise for children in Key Stages 1 & 2, has been expanded after it was initially offered to Whitleigh Primary School following a local campaign.

The recommendation to expand the scheme to Laira Green was made by Luke Pollard MP, who visited Laira Green to mark the announcement alongside Rob Witton, chief executive of the Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise.

Access to dental care for children in Plymouth is severely limited, with nearly 23,000 people on an NHS dental waiting list.

Children’s dental care has been a priority for the Plymouth Dental Task Force since it was convened by Plymouth City Council earlier this year to address the host of issues surrounding NHS dentistry provision in the city.

Luke Pollard has launched a new dental survey to hear from families in Plymouth about their experiences of dentistry in the city. He said: “Every child should have access to an NHS dentist, but the current government is failing to deliver this vital service.

“Working with the University of Plymouth Dental School, we have been able to extend targeted help to young people at Laira Green Primary School. This means kids who can’t get an NHS dentist locally can now get treatment for free at the dental school.

“This initiative is superb and shows even with a government on go slow, we can make a

PLANS FOR £21M BRICKFIELDS DEVELOPMENT SUBMITTED Plans for the £21 million development of the under-utilised Brickfields site have been submitted to Plymouth City Council.

The plans will see the wholesale redevelopment of Brickfields to provide an exciting range of community and sport facilities including new grass and allweather 3G pitches, play zones exclusively for public use, better access, public areas, and parking.

The plans include new facilities for Plymouth Argyle’s Academy and the site will also become the home of Plymouth Argyle women’s first team.

As part of the plans, Argyle will provide an £11m investment towards the project, with £7.26m coming from Argyle Community Trust and £2.75m from Plymouth City Council.

For full details visit www.pafc.uk/news/ brickfields-planning-application-submitted

January 2024 Luke Pollard MP and Rob Witton pictured with pupils during their visit to Laira Green Primary School

difference locally.”

Rob Witton, professor of community dentistry at the University of Plymouth, added: “The Dental School and Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise provides over 4,000 appointments each year for children, and we are delighted to be able to work directly with schools to offer these appointments to children in need.

“We have been working with Laira Green for some time to promote oral health and wanted to do more as we know finding a dentist in Plymouth can be a challenge for many families.

“Following a recommendation by Luke, and with the support of the Plymouth Dental Task Force, we have opened up this initiative to Laira Green to see if we can better align the training needs of our dental students with the needs of local children.

“Although we have limited resource, if we can make this a success we will expand the offer to other schools.”

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18 January 2024

Santa sculpture will light up the Barbican during December Mr Kriss, the UK’s largest illuminated Santa sculpture, is visiting Plymouth’s waterfront this Christmas and will be situated in The Parade, outside Bonne Sante and Rockets and Rascals, for the whole of December.

A diver examines a wreck and captures data subsequently used to better understand the biodiversity found on shipwrecks (Credit marcusrose.gue)

Plymouth University study reveals importance of shipwrecks for sea life

Mr Kriss is five metres high and five metres wide and adorned with over 10,000 lights bringing festive cheer to everyone who sees him. Visitors of all ages will be able to get up close and personal with Mr Kriss to take photos and ‘Santa Selfies’.

Jon Walton, chief executive of Plymouth Waterfront Partnership said: “Mr Kriss is going to add even more sparkle to the Barbican and waterfront this Christmas. He’ll be visiting

Plymouth from the end of November and be here until the end of December. We can’t wait to see the ‘Santa Selfies’ and photos that visitors take with him. We’d encourage anyone coming to see Mr Kriss to take some time to explore the rest of the Barbican and waterfront whilst they’re here – to support our many local businesses, cafes, restaurants and shops and soak up the festive spirit in our historic quarter.”

Visiting Mr Kriss is free and children are reminded to take their letters for Santa when visiting the Barbican as there will be a giant three metre ttall post box next to Mr Kriss with a special light show to let everyone know the letter is on its way to Santa.

An estimated 50,000 shipwrecks can be found around the UK’s coastline and have been acting as a hidden refuge for fish, corals and other marine species in areas still open to destructive bottom towed fishing, a new study has shown.

Many of these wrecks have been lying on the seabed for well over a century, and have served as a deterrent to fishers who use bottom towed trawling to secure their catches.

As a result, while many areas of the seabed have been damaged significantly in areas of heavy fishing pressure, the seabed in and around shipwrecks remains largely unblemished.

The new research, conducted by the University of Plymouth and Blue Marine Foundation, has been published in the journal Marine Ecology, and is the first to demonstrate the increased ecological importance of shipwrecks – and the areas surrounding them – in areas of heavy fishing pressure.

The study found that the average density of marine life in areas still open to trawling was 240% greater within wreck sites than in sites actively being used for bottom towed fishing.

In parts of the seabed within a 50m radius of the wrecks, the difference was even greater with the density of marine life 340% greater than in the control sites.

Conversely, in sites closed to trawling, the abundance was 149% greater than on wrecks and 85% greater than on the seabed within a 50m radius of the wrecks.

Jenny Hickman, the study’s lead author, completed the research as part of her MSc Marine Conservation programme at the University of Plymouth.

She said: “The industrial use of bottom towed fishing gear has been commonplace since the 1800s, and has significantly altered marine communities and ecosystem services. Outside of legal protection, only areas inaccessible to trawlers are offered any protection, which is why shipwreck sites are rarely subject to trawling pressure. As many have been in situ for more than 100 years, they offer a baseline of ecological potential when trawling pressure is reduced or removed.”

The research was conducted around five shipwrecks off the Berwickshire coast, which are all thought to have sunk in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Constructed from a range of different materials, they sit between 17 and 47metres beneath the ocean surface, with some in areas open to bottom towed fishing and others in areas where some types of fishing are restricted.

The research teams, supported by local boat crews, gathered video footage of the shipwrecks, the surrounding 50m radius, and control locations more than 150m from the wreck site.

Researchers say the latest study demonstrates the importance of factoring wreck sites into future conservation plans, but also the benefits of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) status.

Dr Emma Sheehan, associate professor of Marine Ecology and senior author, added: “In recent years, the UK has made significant strides in terms of measures to protect the marine environment.

There is still much to be done to reach the goal of having 30% of the ocean protected by 2030, but if we are to get close to that we need detailed evidence about what makes our ocean so special and any existing initiatives that are working well.

“This study builds on our existing work in that regard, and highlights an impact of past human activity that is actually having a positive impact on the seabed.”

Soroptimists join city centre march Almost 100 men, women and children, as well as a few dogs, joined members from Plymouth Soroptimist club on the walk through Plymouth city centre to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and Girls.

Many walkers, including the dogs, wore orange and local landmarks displayed orange lighting including Derriford Hospital, Theatre Royal, University of Plymouth and Smeaton’s Tower.

The walk was set off in the city centre by the Deputy Lord Mayor Kathy Watkin and closed by Alexis Bowater at the statue of Nancy Astor on Plymouth Hoe. At various points on the walk speakers, including Soroptimist president Elle Vuitton, talked about the horrifying number of incidents of violence against women with almost 7,000 cases reported in Plymouth alone in 2022.

Plymouth Citybus ‘Spiking’ bus was outside the Theatre Royal to highlight the dangers of drink spiking. Plymouth Soroptimists were delighted to be joined

on the walk by representatives from local women’s support groups including Trevi and the Sunflower Centre.

President Elle Vuitton said: “It was an amazing day, and it was great to have

so much support from everyone who joined us and supported the event. The day of the walk marked the start of the international campaign of 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence.”

@PlymChronicle

THE

January 2024

The Gift that keeps on giving

By Ian Pilkington, volunteer presenter at Cross Rhythms

Experience At the time of writing it’s the end of November, and Christmas is approaching in the form of Advent, a time of hope and anticipation in the Christian calendar.

That sense of hopeful expectancy is shared pretty widely, among people of faith and no faith, although sadly not by all.

If you’re like me, this year is harder than many I can remember. Finances are stretched (that’s an understatement) and yet the advertising keeps coming at us with promises of gifts and presents to make our children happy and our loved ones over the moon.

Some of what I see looks, frankly, a bit cheap and nasty so why would I give it; and some seems out of my reach financially.

So, with less to spend, and seemingly less time to even think about it, will my family, friends and others be less than happy with me? Will I fail at Christmas and spoil it for everyone if I can’t give or do all I would like to?

19

There is a proverb in the whose business hasn’t been Bible that says: ‘A generous great this year, but who person will prosper; made a point of giving me whoever refreshes others treats for my dog. Little will be refreshed.’ To me, things. But they make a that seems especially difference. appropriate for the In both cases I know Christmas season. they would have had good It doesn’t say ‘whoever reason to shut up the gives most’ or ‘whoever shutters on their hearts and throws the best party.’ Just not bother, not make the ‘whoever refreshes others effort. is a generous person.’ The I’m so glad they did make qualification for being part the effort. I have lasting of this isn’t how much we memories and deeper have to give; it’s whether friendships with both those Ian Pilkington our hearts are open to people. giving.

It makes me hopeful that I’ve been blessed by generosity of heart, and people in the direst of straits; Graham, who not my credit status or bank balance, is what used to sleep rough in Plymouth but always really makes for joyful relationships. made time to talk with me and treat me like And the promise is that when we open our a person he valued; the local shopkeeper hearts to refresh others, we are refreshed

Talented Babcock apprentices praised for their achievements Babcock apprentices, based at the company’s Devonport facility, have been celebrating their achievements at the company’s annual Apprentice Awards Evening held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Plymouth.

As part of their early careers journey, more than 50 Babcock employees were formally commended for their achievements in gaining new qualifications.

A wide variety of trades, including electrical, mechanical and fabrication, were presented with certificates from Paul Watson, Babcock’s managing director at Devonport.

Eleven groups covering several trade disciplines, as well as Higher-Level Apprenticeship schemes each named a winner of the

prestigious Apprentice of the Year category, as voted for by apprentice development manager. Harry Holt, Babcock’s chief executive Nuclear, presented the trophies to the deserving winners.

Paul Watson extended his congratulations, saying: “Every individual who received an award has strived for excellence throughout their apprenticeship and it really shows. Their dedication is inspiring, and it is fantastic to see so many committed and talented individuals with such promising career prospects, a huge thank you and well done to you all.”

For more information about Babcock’s apprenticeship opportunities visit https://earlycareers.babcockinternational.com/ apprenticeships

ourselves. It’s a two way street, because life is all about relationships.

Advent marks the period where we can reflect on the hope, peace, joy and love that God offered us when he gave His Son Jesus Christ as a gift to everyone who wants Him. It was a costly gift for God, but with no strings attached for us. A remarkable act of generosity, if you like.

Whether you’re reading this before, during or after Christmas, that gift is always offered and is available for anyone. We can receive it just like we receive any gift - with acceptance and thankfulness, acknowledging the Giver and valuing the Gift.

In my experience, this really is the Gift that keeps on giving.

Listen to Cross Rhythms Plymouth on 96.3FM or online at the new Cross Rhythms Plymouth website at www. crossrhythms.co.uk/plymouth

Driving test failure rate in Plymouth among worst in the country Plymouth driving test centre has one of the worst pass rates in the country, according to new data.

Roughly one in three learners at Plymouth test centre (37.4%) receive their pink licence, meaning that around twothirds (62.6%) fail their test.

Research from learner driver insurance experts Dayinsure has revealed the best and worst places in the UK for Brits to learn how to drive.

The research combines data from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) with new insights from Freedom of Information requests to explore which UK postcodes have the highest and lowest test centre pass rates.

On a national level, the average practical test pass rate was 48%, and the theory test pass rate was 44%.

Commenting on the data, Nicholas Shaw, director of operations at Dayinsure said: “By creating our new learner driver index, we wanted to find out which UK areas and postcodes have the best and worst conditions for learner drivers to practice for and successfully pass their tests.

“It is clear to see that pass rates fluctuate up and down the country, and learners in some areas may struggle to find an instructor in time to start their driving lessons on time.

“We would like to remind learners that they don’t need to wait for their instructor to start practicing for their practical driving test.

“You can practice in any car, as long as you’re supervised by someone who’s over 21 years old who’s held a British driving licence for at least three years. However, you must take care to ensure that everyone is fully insured to drive the vehicle.”

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Plymouth Proprietary Library has been presented with a cheque for £1,250 from Devonshire Freemasons.

The library is one of Plymouth’s oldest oldest institutions founded in 1810, enabling its members to read and borrow from the extensive collection of rare books, local history titles, maritime works and modern fiction.

The library also holds regular talks, poetry evenings, coffee mornings and group meetings including a writing group and book group. The donation will help with heating and running costs.

The Library was one of 19 local good causes across Devon to receive donations totalling £24.000.

Pictured above: Darren Bevin, manager of the Plymouth Proprietary Library and Lyndsay Cooper, library volunteer receive the cheque from Nicholas Ball (left), the Provincial Grand Master for the Devonshire Freemasons.

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Food donations play key role in helping families in need Charities FareShare and the Trussell Trust are facing record levels of need throughout the festive season and New Year, with many Plymouth people expected to need help from the charities.

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To support people through what could be the toughest winter for many years, Tesco’s Food Collection ran in Plymouth Express stores and in large stores until December 2.

During the collection customers were encouraged to donate long-life food to support the charities.

This year’s Tesco Christmas Report found that 26 per cent of people plan to make a donation to a food bank this year.

The top 10 most-needed items required from Plymouth shoppers are – UHT and powered milk, tinned meat and fish, sponge/rice pudding, long-life fruit juice, cooking/pasta sauces, tinned vegetables, tinned and dried soup, pasta, rice and noodles, cereal and porridge, tea and coffee.

Ken Murphy, Tesco Group chief executive, said: “Over the last 10 years our generous customers have helped donate over 100 million meals to communities across the UK. Whether it’s in your local store through the Winter Food Collection or via your Clubcard points online, even the smallest donation can make a real difference to someone else’s Christmas.”

This year will see both

charities face their busiest winter yet as more people turn to them for support. The Trussell Trust is expecting to distribute more than one million emergency food parcels between December and February and have reported that alarmingly, 320,000 people have needed to access a food bank for the first time in the past six months.

Meanwhile, FareShare is estimating it will redistribute more than 28,000 tonnes of food this winter, the equivalent of over 68 million meals, up by more than 42 per cent compared to last year.

George Wright, FareShare chief executive, said: “Over the last decade, Tesco has supplied more than 250 million meals to FareShare, more than any other organisation in our history. As we prepare for another challenging winter ahead, the items we collect play a crucial part in our efforts to get food to the communities that need it most.”

Emma Revie, Trussell Trust chief executive, added: “The support provided by Tesco and their customers is invaluable to the food banks in our network, especially at this time of year when we anticipate that our network will be providing an emergency food parcel every eight seconds.

The generous donations received are vital in ensuring food banks can meet the urgent levels of need, whilst we work towards a future where everyone can afford the essentials.”

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Plymouth pet food bank in danger of closing as it can’t keep up with demand

Bramble’s Pet Food Bank, a small local community initiative that provides food for pets in need, is running low on donations. Bramble’s Pet Food Bank is struggling to keep up with the demand for food, and is in desperate need of help from the community.

Jo Butler, founder of Bramble’s Pet Food Bank said: “We simply don’t have enough food on our shelves to support people that so desperately need our help and who are struggling to feed their pets. This is heartbreaking, as we know how much pets mean to their families.”

Bramble’s relies on donations from individuals and businesses to provide food for pets in need. At this current time the pet food bank is facing a critical shortage of donations and it simply doesn’t have the food to meet the demands from people needing help feeding their pets.

The community initiative based in Southway is currently accepting donations of dry and wet dog and cat food, as well as treats and toys in the lead up to Christmas.

Jo added: “We have seen a significant increase in the demand for our services in recent months. Any donation, no matter how big or small, can make a big difference. We are so grateful for the support of the community.”

About Bramble’s Pet Food Bank Bramble’s Pet Food Bank is a non-profit initiative that provides food for pets in need. It was founded in 2020 by Jo Butler and is named after Jo’s beloved Cocker Spaniel, Bramble. Jo was inspired to start the pet food bank after seeing a growing need for pet food assistance in the community.

How to Donate There are a number of ways to donate to Bramble’s Pet Food Bank. Donations can be made online via an Amazon wishlist or by dropping off tinned or dried food (unopened) to a range of local businesses across the city that are supporting the initiative including Bellas Pet Shop in Peverell, Ladies and Tramps Dog Grooming, Duke of Cornwall Hotel and The Dog Dip in Plympton. There is also a Bramble’s Pet Food Bank GoFundMe page www.gofundme.com/f/maxprbpet-food-donations Bramble’s Pet Food Bank has helped hundreds of families in Plymouth since it was founded. Jo is committed to helping families keep their beloved pets together.

Jo Butler’s beloved Cocker Spaniel Bramble...namesake of the pet food bank

@PlymChronicle

22 January 2024

Micro-forests Bumper tree planting season under way set to be planted across Plymouth thanks to grant of £50,000 Tree planting season is officially underway with 3,500 set to be planted across Plymouth this winter.

A handful of micro-forests are set to be planted right across Plymouth thanks to some special grant funding.

It comes as the Plymouth and South Devon Community Forest was successful in its bid to deliver what is hopefully the first of many Miyawaki Forests, funded by the King’s Coronation Living Heritage Fund.

The council have been granted £50,000 for the project from a special pot administered by DEFRA to celebrate King Charles III love of nature.

The money will be used in conjunction with local community interest company Societree CIC to plant up to six ‘Miyawaki’ Forests in Plymouth.

Miyawaki Forests are small trees planted very densely over an area the size of a tennis court. They encourage rapid growth, improves biodiversity and in the appropriate location, can help with flood management.

Councillor Tom Briars-Delve, Cabinet member for the Environment and Climate Change, said: “I welcome all funding for more trees in Plymouth but I think this grant is really special.

“It will go towards planting in a way we haven’t experienced in Plymouth before, and we look forward to working with Societree CIC to see the project flourish.”

Steve Warren-Brown, Founder of Societree CIC added: “The Societree team are delighted to have been awarded this funding. Whilst we are a start up we have been on a 4 year journey, and this funding endorses our plan, which is to plant 96 micro-forests into 96 schools.

“This will kick start our campaign and the work will impact on hundreds of children for years to come, and hopefully inspire others to get involved with our unique project.”

As part of the delivery of the project, the money will be transferred to Societree for delivery. All the schemes are to be delivered in this planting season 2023/2024.

The locations of the Miyawaki Forests are still being scoped by Societree CIC. The planned locations are most likely to be in parks and schools, but this has not yet been finalised.

The Plymouth and South Devon Community Forest is England’s 11th Community Forest and will eventually stretch from the heart of the city to the edge of the moor, encompassing 1,900 hectares of land to form a mosaic of different forest habitats.

Unlike traditional forests, the community forest isn’t geographically restricted to one place. Instead, it encompasses a mix of community woodland, private woodland, on street, urban woodland, wooded habitat corridors and hedgerows.

Since 2020, over 8,000 trees have been planted in Plymouth alone, across more than 100 locations with 3,500 more trees set to go in the ground this winter.

Made up of whips, maiden fruit trees and standards, most of the trees will be accessible throughout public places such as parks and open spaces, road verges, residential streets and outside housing developments.

Highlights of the planting schedule include: • 15 standards and eight maiden fruit trees near to the Devonport Soapbox Theatre in Devonport Park • 12 standards and 11 maiden fruit trees in Frogmore Avenue Park • 17 standards in Seagrave Road thanks to a partnership with Plymouth Community Homes • 450 young whips in Downhorn Park Phase 2 (six standards, 450 whips) • Five standards and 100 whips at Ham Drive Nursery School • 23 standards at Old Farm Road and Red Brick Field, thanks to a partnership with LiveWest • 170 whips and 15 standards at Horesham Fields/Albion Oaks Rugby Football Club Although the trees will form part of the Plymouth and South Devon Community Forest (PSDCF), which spans the city and areas of the South Hams and Dartmoor, all 3,500 will be planted inside the city boundary.

This year’s schedule of planting follows on from the 8,000 already planted across more than 100 sites since the Community Forest launched in 2020.

Councillor Tom Briars-Delve, Cabinet member for the Environment and Climate Change, said: “I’m delighted to see so many trees being planted in Plymouth this year.

“Trees are so important to the future of the city, not just for their obvious carbon retention functions but for ensuring that Plymouth remains a green city.

“I look forward to getting my hands dirty myself in planting some of these trees and counting as many as the 3,500 as I can as they go in the ground.”

The planting will be made up of more than 3,000 whips, over 50 maiden fruit trees, and 350 standards.

Whips are young and slender trees, often just a few feet tall at the time of planting, you’ll be able to recognise these as they are often fit with tubular rabbit and deer guards.

A maiden is a smaller tree, usually three to five foot tall while a standard is a large tree that at the time of planting is already six to ten feet tall, having been grown in a nursery for several years, these require the most aftercare while they establish but offer instant visual impact so are the preferred choice for urban areas such as streets and parks.

Launched in September 2020, the PSDCF has facilitated the creation of over 80 hectares of new woodland throughout South Devon; that’s approximately 65,000 trees.

Councillor Briars-Delve, planting seedlings at a recent Community Nursery event

Stretching from the South Devon coast to the rolling landscape of Dartmoor National Park, by April 2025 we aim to have planted a further 420 hectares across our project area, creating a mosaic of orchards, hedgerows, areas of natural regeneration, native broadleaf, and productive woodland.

Unlike traditional forests, the community forest won’t be geographically restricted to one place. Instead, it will encompass a mix of community woodland, private woodland, on street, urban woodland, wooded habitat corridors and hedgerows.

Most of the schemes delivered across the city are requested by and codesigned with residents and community groups. If you would like to hear more about the PSDCF project, please contact PSDCF@plymouth.gov.uk, and keep an eye on our social media channels for an upcoming site request form for 24/25 tree planting in your local area.

The Plymouth and South Devon Community Forest is a partnership between Plymouth City Council, National Trust, Woodland Trust, South Hams District Council and West Devon Borough Council, and is funded through the DEFRA Nature for Climate fund.

AgeUK Plymouth video nominated for award A video produced by Age UK Plymouth which highlights the challenges for today’s over 50s and gives voice to Plymouth’s older residents has been nominated for an award.

talented, dedicated and relentless force there is, which makes up the Age UK Plymouth team.

“Driving enablement for every single client, constantly thinking of everything so clients don’t have to, and seeing such positive, and empowering results, literally unfold before the camera, not just for the clients but their families and loved ones too.

“As a filmmaker, hearing the touching stories from the clients and seeing first hand, the work of the volunteers and the staff, it really hit home the importance of the vital support, organisations like Age UK Plymouth provide to us all in our later years, that we just come to rely on and so easily take for granted. They provide such a huge, diverse range of services, empowering seniors to lead fulfilling, independent lives.

“They really are a rock to so many, keeping our loved ones safe and sound. Honestly, hand on heart you have to ask, where would we all be without them? They are all superheroes, and if the backbone of Britain is anything, it is Age UK Plymouth.”

Bryony Rawson, head of communications at the

The charity is asking supporters to watch and vote for their video ‘Supporting Independence in Plymouth’ which has made it through to the public voting stage of the Charity Film Awards. The film, the first in a set of three shorts made in collaboration with local film-maker Simon Cohen, highlight the charity’s prestigious 81 year history of support for over 50s in the city through adaptive measures and continual evolution.

The charity are hoping that coverage from their nomination will help spread the work of Age UK Plymouth to new audiences. Previous winners include household names such as Macmillan, Teenage Cancer Trust, Asda, Barnardo’s, Action Aid International and the Harry Kane Foundation. In their category Age UK Plymouth find themselves nominated amongst some stiff competition including 2022 winner Greenpeace UK. Speaking about working with the charity, Simon said: “I count myself very lucky to work with such a great team at Age UK Plymouth and their clients, filming this series of promotional films showcasing the great work that they do.

“Filming over two days at both the Mount Gould Plymstock branches, I was allowed in behind the scenes of Age UK Plymouth. Camera in hand, I walked straight into a well-oiled machine, A still from one of the AgeUK videos immediately seeing first-hand what a

charity and co-producer of the film said: “Age UK Plymouth has been here for over eight decades but when people ask what we actually do, it’s difficult to answer in a way that does justice to the charity and it’s staff. It’s been a genuine privilege to produce these short films and give our clients, volunteers and supporters a platform and I feel very fortunate that the organisation are able to see the value in working on these awareness campaigns to bring our charity to increasingly larger audiences.

“Our thanks go out to everyone who was so open to letting us into their lives to share their stories, and to Simon for being as dedicated to this project as we were. “ I’m delighted that the first film in the series ‘Supporting Independence in Plymouth’ has been nominated for the Smiley Charity Film Awards, to be included alongside some incredible pieces of heartfelt and compelling work is a genuine honour.”

The charity has found support in local leaders like Luke Pollard MP for Plymouth, Sutton & Devonport.

He said: “I think most people know that it’s a tough time at the moment, the cost of living crisis means that many people are struggling and the Information and Advice Team here at Age UK are very much like the caseworkers that I have in my office, people who are absolutely dedicated to helping others to dealing with this massive volume of requests for help.”

To vote for the film and help Age UK Plymouth reach the next round of judging visit bit.ly/VoteForAgeUKPlymouth or follow links from Age UK Plymouth’s website or social media channels.

USEFUL £20m boost for waterfront and NUMBERS @PlymChronicle

January 2024

23

port with big investment plans

Plymouth’s waterfront and port look set to benefit from almost £20 million as part of the Government’s Levelling Up fund.

Plymouth City Council has learnt that its ambition to regenerate the city by accelerating the Freeport, National Marine Park and Net Zero vision have all moved a step further forward through this award of funding to the tune of £19,946,417.

Council Leader Tudor Evans: “Absolutely brilliant news. That’s nearly £20 million worth of investment into Plymouth.

“We keep pressing the case for investment in projects that we believe have the potential to make a huge difference to our economy and to the people who live here – and it’s paying off.

“We have an extraordinary waterfront. We have some exciting ideas to help people in Plymouth prosper and want to create opportunities for young people to learn skills

that will see them with great jobs in the blue economy. The projects we have put forward will help make this happen.”

The funding has been allocated on the basis of three key projects which were put forward to drive change by making the most of the opportunities made available through the area’s Freeport status as well as help create a city where everyone can reach their potential.

The projects intend to deliver innovation, infrastructure and skills across the city through: • Marine innovation – through the delivery of innovation barns which allow practical innovation space for marine businesses helping research and development of products. Earmarked for Oceansgate, already a hotbed of innovation in the recentlydesignated Freeport tax site at South Yard, this will leverage opportunities to grow the sector by providing a focal point for

technological advances in the marine and defence arena.

• Modernisation of port infrastructure at Millbay – upgrading port infrastructure to increase freight through the ferryport.

This includes a move towards shore power, reducing the reliance on fossil fuels for shipping. Some key improvements are already in the pipeline, this will further encourage and support sustainable business growth, high value jobs and international trade.

• Transformed waterfront – repurposing derelict buildings to engage, inspire and train our future workforce. Raising aspirations to enable access for all to high value jobs and providing an attractive place to invest, work and play. The Council will be working with colleagues from the National Marine Park on raising the aspirations of young people to enter into marine employment.

The schemes will have to be delivered by 2026.

Plymouth bus depot controller Robert celebrates 20 years behind the wheel A bus depot controller from Plymouth was honoured for an impressive 20 years of commitment to the Plymouth community at a recent long-service awards ceremony.

Robert Stonehouse has worked for Stagecoach bus since 2003 started his career as a leading driver based in Plymouth and is now a full-time controller at Chelson Meadow in Plymstock.

In his role as a depot controller, Robert oversees the intricacies of the entire Stagecoach bus network in Plymouth, operating from the control room. His responsibilities include ensuring the efficient deployment of buses across the city through a meticulous tracking system.

From managing breakdowns to addressing driver issues, Robert’s dedication plays a pivotal role in maintaining the seamless operation of vehicles to keep the Plymouth bus network running as smoothly as possible.

Reflecting on his two-decade journey with Stagecoach, Robert expressed his deep connection to Plymouth: “I am a Plymouth person; I love it here. We are so lucky to drive buses in this picturesque part of the world from the moors to the seafronts.

“The team I work with are some of the best drivers around and like an extension of my own family. I have stayed at Stagecoach for such a long time as I am one of those people who does love their job, and so it’s nice to get rewarded for long service.”

Robert’s extensive experience and commitment were evident during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

As he recounted, “Obviously in my 20 years here, Covid was one of our biggest challenges.

The control team had a huge job, but we kept working, making sure we were keeping the people of Plymouth safe.”

Throughout his career, Robert Stonehouse has worked his way up through the ranks of the business, accumulating a wealth of memorable moments and encounters with the

Emergency Numbers

Police, Fire, Ambulance or Coastguard 999 or 112 Police general enquiries 101 Derriford Hospital 01752 202082 NHS 111 Electricity, Western Power Distribution 0800 678 3105 Gas, Wales & West Utilities 0800 111999 Water, South West Water 0344 3462020 Environment Agency (Emergency) 0800 807060 RSPCA 0300 1234 999

Helplines Age UK Plymouth 01752 256020 Adoption UK 0844 848 7900 Al-Anon Family Groups 020 7403 088 Alcoholics Anonymous 0800 917 7650 Carers UK 020 7378 4999 Childline 0800 1111 Christians Against Poverty (Debt Advice) 0800 328 0006 Citizens Advice 0300 3309 043 Cruse Bereavement Care 0870 1671677 Devon & Cornwall Food Action 01752 651800 Disability & Information Advice Line 01302 310123 Drug Addicts Anonymous: Helpline 07818260811 Jan Cutting Healthy Living Centre 01752 203670 Money Advice Plymouth (Debt Advice) 01752 208126 NSPCC Child Protection Helpline 0808 8005000 National Missing Persons Helpline 0500 700700 National Christian Helpline 0300 111 0101 NHS Direct 0845 4647 National Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 2000247 Osteoporosis Support Group 075958 500314 Overeaters Anonymous 07000 784 985 Parentline Plus 0808 8002222 Relateline 0845 1304010 Samaritans 116 123 Talk to Frank 0800 776600 Shelterline 0808 8004444 Stop Hate Crime 24/7 Helpline 0800 138 1625 Stroke Helpline 0303 3033 100 West Country Landlords Assn 01752 242980

Travel

RAC Green Flag Rail Travel, national enquiries Plymouth Citybus National Express Coaches Brittany Ferries Cremyll Ferry Torpoint Ferry Tourist Information Passport Office, National Helpline

08000 828282 0800 400600 08457 484950 01752 662271 08717 818181 08705 360360 01752 822105 01752 812233 01752 266030 0870 5210410

Entertainment Theatre Royal Barbican Theatre Devonport Playhouse Plymouth Pavilions Plymouth Pavilions Ticket Store Cineworld Vue Cinema Tourist Information National Trust Saltram The Box Plymouth Arts Centre

Leisure

diverse characters of Plymouth.

Stagecoach employees from across the South West including Exeter, Plymouth, Barnstaple and Torquay have been recognised for their loyal service and commitment to passenger transport at a special ceremony.

Since 1996, Stagecoach South West has been operating services across Devon and into Cornwall and Somerset. This year, 56 long-serving staff were acknowledged after accumulating an impressive 1,178 years of service between them, and each one was recognised for their hard work and commitment over the years at a celebration dinner and awards ceremony at Sandy Park, Exeter.

Stagecoach South West managing director

Robert Stonehouse receives his long service certificate from Peter Knight, Stagecoach South West managing director

Peter Knight said “It was fantastic to come together on the evening to honour our long serving employees who have remained dedicated to connecting people and communities.

Over the past 12 months we’ve operated over 14 million miles and carried over 24 million customers - it’s not lost on me the size and scale of what we do everyday in rain, shine, snow and everything else in between and it is important for our teams to know that everything they do for the business and the communities we serve doesn’t go unnoticed.”

01752 267222 01752 267131 01752 606507 01752 936363 03337 727727 03303 33444 0345 308 4620 01752 306330 01752 333500 01752 304774 01752 206114

Plymouth Life Centre 01752 606900 Brickfields Recreation Ground 01752 563320 Manadon Football Dev’ment Centre 01752 201918 Plympton Swimming Pool 0870 300 0020 Plymouth Pavilions 0845 146 1460 Megabowl, Coxside 0871 5501010 Tourist Information 01752 306330 The Beckly Centre, Plymstock 01752 484433 The Met Office Weathercall

Weather

0370 9000100 0870 6004242

If you think your organisation would benefit from being listed in our Useful Numbers guide please e-mail your details to info@cornerstonevision.com or write to: Plymouth Chronicle, 28 Old Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth Tel 01752 225623 Please note that whilst the Publishers have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of telephone numbers in this Directory, and dates in the What’s On section, no responsibility can be accepted for any errors.

@PlymChronicle

24 January 2024

Repairs planned for Devil’s Point pool over

Advertise to

23,000

One of Plymouth’s best-loved bathing spots will be getting a makeover early next year.

Devil’s Point tidal pool is where generation after generation of Plymothians swam their first strokes and is popular with people of all ages each summer.

But its vulnerable coastal position means that it takes a battering from the elements and needs constant upkeep.

In early 2024, the structural integrity of the pool will be strengthened using well-established techniques for the repair of marine structures. A combination of preformed and reinforced concrete with marine-grade stainless steel reinforcement will help ensure that the pool is fit for years to come.

While the pool is being repaired, there will also be upgrades to the access and facilities around Firestone Bay. Replacement hand-rails, new lockers for the swimming community and repairs to the steps are all in the schedule.

Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Housing, Cooperative Development and Communities, said: “We know that residents love the pool at Devil’s Point and so its vitally important that we look after it.

“Of course, we’ll never be able to literally hold back the tide to protect it but these works will be crucial to ensuring, especially in these economic times, that there is a free resource for families to use when the nice

homes in Central and Waterfront

Photo: Paul Read/Google

weather returns next summer.”

Councillor Tom Briars-Delve, Cabinet Member for the Environment and Climate Change, added: “Devil’s Point is a key focal point of our National Marine Park and so to ensure that it is fit for the next generation to enjoy is a really positive move.”

Works are expected to begin in March

2024 as the weather and tides become more favourable and will take approximately 10 weeks.

While every effort will be made to maintain access to the beach, there may be some disruption while work takes place.

Any environmental implications will be reviewed prior to any work on site.

The Central and Waterfront Chronicle is delivered door to door every month to homes in Hartley, Mannamead, Compton, Efford, Laira, St Judes, Mt Gould, Lipson, Greenbank, Prince Rock, Cattedown, Barbican, Hoe, City Centre, Mutley and Peverell.

The February edition of the Plymouth Chronicle in Central and Waterfront will be published on Jan uary 19 with a copy deadline of January 8. The Central and Waterfront edition is one of four hyper local editions delivered to a total of more than 90,000 homes throughout the city.

We welcome submissions but cannot guarantee publication. We accept press releases in the form of text documents and images in JPG or TIFF format (high resolution please).

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Chronicle Crossword

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January 2024 An ‘orange army’ of volunteers have already gifted more than 20,000 hours of their time at Derriford Hospital this year See Page 3

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Gables Cats and Dogs Home is appealing for help to meet its soaring winter

The pool at Devil’s Point – one of Plymouth’s most popular bathing spots – is getting a makeover See Page 24

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n?

Turn to our Dial The Experts guide on pages 20 and 21

be jolly!

Final touches are added to the Christmas decorations in the • Story and photos house at National on page 9 Photo: Trust’s Saltram National Trust/SG Haywood Photograp hy

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