Plymouth Chronicle March North 2024

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Photo: Jay Stone Photography

Visitor& Learning Centre

Open daily 10 - 4 Hands on models. Free guided talks Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday.

Tuesday 2nd April

Bubble bike boogie Free drop in activity

Wednesday 3rd April

Make & take puppets family crafts £5 per child

Monday 8th April 11am

Guided bridge walking tour £5 adults, children free

visit@tamarcrossings.org.uk

Tuesday 9th April 10am Anchorage tour £10

Departing Thu 23 May ‘24

We explore the pastoral landscapes of the Cotswolds with their gently rolling hills scattered with honey-coloured stone towns and villages. We also include a scenic journey on the heritage Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway and a visit to Stratford-upon-Avon.

Your break includes

 Return coach travel from Plymouth & Saltash

 4 nights at a selected hotel in the West Midlands (JG3 rating) with dinner & breakfast

 Cruise on the River Avon

 Heritage train journey on the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway

 Excursions to Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester, Tewkesbury, Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold & Broadway

Departing Mon 24 Jun ‘24

On this fantastic break we enjoy the island’s natural beauty as well as a nostalgic journey on the Isle of Wight Steam Railway and a visit to fascinating Osborne House. The Isle of Wight is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing few days away.

Your break includes

 Return coach travel & ferry crossings from Plymouth & Saltash

 4 nights at the Holliers Hotel, Shanklin with dinner & breakfast

 Entertainment some evenings

 Heritage train journey on the Isle of Wight Steam Railway

 Excursions to Osborne House, Cowes & Ryde

Optional Island Highlights Tour (£13pp)

Departing Fri 28 Jun ‘24

The countryside of the Yorkshire Dales meets the coastal charm of Scarborough on this relaxing four-day break. Wander the sleepy streets of Grassington, listen to the gentle canal waters in Skipton and feel the sand between your toes on Scarborough’s beach.

Your break includes

 Return coach travel from Plymouth & Saltash

 3 nights at a selected hotel in Yorkshire with dinner & breakfast

 2 for 1 bar (6pm-9pm) on selected drinks

 Excursions to Skipton, Grassington & Scarborough

Wolferstans raise £12,500 for Mustard Tree Plymouth

A year-long fundraising campaign by Plymouth based law firm, Wolferstans Solicitors has resulted in a donation of £12,500 to Mustard Tree Plymouth, the firm’s charity of the Year for 2023.

Inspired by the profound support provided by Mustard Tree Plymouth to a beloved late colleague during their battle with cancer, Wolferstans Solicitors dedicated its time, resources, and creativity to a series of fundraising initiatives throughout the year.

The fundraising journey started with events such as bake sales and an afternoon tea extravaganza, creating an atmosphere of generosity and warmth within their three offices in Plymouth, Plympton and Plymstock.

Wolferstans actively participated in nationwide initiatives like the Macmillan Coffee Morning and hosted a hot chocolate sale to provide a sweet respite during winter days.

Beyond the sweet endeavours, the firm’s staff 50/50 monthly prize draw, facilitated through payroll giving, emerged as a consistent contribution, raising over £1000 throughout the year.

The commitment to Mustard Tree extended beyond office walls through community events, including a quiz night at Boringdon Golf Club and the pinnacle of the year, the Ben Nevis Trek, where dedicated team members conquered the highest peak in the UK.

In the spirit of community engagement, collection tins were placed at all Wolferstans’ offices and events like Armed Forces Day, where generous clients and members of the public contributed donations. The firm also hosted a cheese and wine night, bringing people together in the name of charity.

Wolferstans Solicitors actively participated in the Plymouth Half Marathon, not only running for Mustard Tree but also dedicating time to help man the charity’s stand at the event.

Clients played a pivotal role in the fundraising journey, showing generosity and solidarity through donations. Their contributions, coupled with the

collective efforts of the Wolferstans team, resulted in an outstanding £12,500 raised for Mustard Tree Plymouth.

Paige Bartlett, assistant marketing manager at Wolferstans said: “We are immensely proud of this achievement and express our hope that this substantial donation will significantly contribute to enabling the charity to continue its exceptional work.

“Mustard Tree Plymouth’s impact on the lives of individuals facing cancer is unmeasurable, and Wolferstans Solicitors looks forward to continuing its support for this vital cause in the future.”

Go Beyond named as Woollcombe Yonge’s Charity of the Year

Plymouth-based solicitors Woollcombe Yonge has named UK children’s charity Go Beyond as the company’s charity of the year for 2024.

The company is planning on raising muchneeded funds through a variety of fun activities, including their famous annual quiz and various challenge events.

Devon-based national charity Go Beyond offers breaks to children facing serious challenges in their lives from centres in Cornwall and Derbyshire.

Raegan Leather, partner and head of Department Wills, Trusts and Probate at Woollcombe Yonge said: “One of our Woollcombe Yonge family was lucky enough to experience a break away from their homelife, similar to that which Go Beyond has provided since 1992.

“Living in extreme poverty and in turbulent surroundings, the experience offered by the charity has never been forgotten for the happy memories

it created and the welcome relief it provided at that time.

“We look forward to being able to support the charity with fundraising, all in an beffort to help them continue their amazing work in the local region.”

Vanessa Fairfax-Woods, Go Beyond’s business development manager, added: “We are delighted to have been chosen as Woollcombe Yonge’s charity of the year for 2024 and look forward to engaging with their clients and helping raise much-needed funds.

“Thanks to Woollcombe Yonge, children and young people who have been bereaved, abused or bullied, who are living in poverty or caring for loved ones will have the chance to escape their worries and pressures. To have the moments and experiences they need to believe in themselves and think beyond the day-to-day for a bigger, brighter future.”

Every one of Go Beyond’s breaks is provided free-of-charge thanks to the generosity of supporters such as Woollcombe Yonge. For more information about Go Beyond, becoming a corporate partner or learning more about other ways to support Go Beyond, visit www.gobeyond. org.uk.

Derriford nurse receives national bravery award

A specialist nurse at Derriford Hospital has received a national bravery award for providing emergency care to a member of the public in 2022.   Gemma Wellman, a renal transplant nurse specialist, was awarded a silver medal at the Police Public Bravery Award ceremony after she was nominated by Somerset Police.

The annual event, which was held in Sheffield on behalf of the National Police Chiefs’ Council, is designed to celebrate members of the public who go above and beyond to protect those around them. Gemma was nominated following her courageous actions when responding to a member of the public in danger.

Alongside Gemma, nearly 70 members of the public, who risked their lives to protect the people around them, were honoured at the ceremony.

Speaking about the importance of the event, Chief Constable Lauren Poultney, who hosted the ceremony, said: “As a Chief Constable and a police officer of twenty five years, I know we ask our police officers to run towards danger and put themselves between harm and the public. We support them in doing so by providing training, safety equipment and support in the form of other police officers. The ask is still a significant one and takes great courage and bravery every day to deliver.

“But, when we see members of the public step up to support another person, someone they have never met before, or to support the police in preventing a crime, they do not have the same armour, they do not necessarily know that help is coming. This is bravery in its purest form and is to be commended.”

Reflecting on her award, Gemma said: “I am honoured to receive this award among the other acts of bravery that were awarded. The event really highlighted the incredible everyday people that have saved and changed lives, while putting themselves at risk. It really celebrated humanity in a way I had never seen before.”

Gemma Wellman

Woollcombe Yonge team with Jasmine Manders from Go Beyond

Wolferstans staff who took part in the Ben Nevis trek

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.

Mother’s Day Table Top Sale

Mar 9

Church of the Holy Spirit, Southway from 1pm to 3pm. Lots of goodies available. For more information or to book a table at £5 contact Veronica on 07855 256383.

West Devon Chorale

Mar 9

Concert at Plymouth Roman Catholic Cathedral, Wyndham Square, Plymouth at 7.30pm featuring Tippet’s Five Negro Spirituals and Parry’s Songs of Farewell. Tickets: £15 (£14 in advance), children and students £5. Contact 07837 017078, or online at www. wegottickets.com/westdevonchorale

Honicknowle Allotment and Garden Association

Mar 12

Annual general meeting at Agaton Social Club, Bedstead road at 7.30pm.

Spring Fayre

Mar 16

To be held at Ford Park Cemetery from 10.30am to 1.30pm. All welcome.

Feel Good Friday

Mar 22

Free Health and Wellbeing Festival at The Plot, 80-84 Union Street, Plymouth from 10am to 6pm. Free entry for all ages. Drop in for advice, information, food and entertainment. Find out about activities that promote a healthy lifestyle, relaxation and self-care. Support and guidance available from trust individuals and organisations.

From the Heart Concert

Mar 23

The University of Plymouth Orchestra perform ‘from the heart’ themed music at the Roland Levinsky Hall on the Plymouth University campus at 7pm to 7.30pm start. Music by Bizet, Mendelssohn, Rachmaninov and a performance of Elgar’s Cello Concerto. Admission is free but donations appreciated. Free tickets can be booked via the ‘What’s On’ page of the University of Plymouth website. There will also be a raffle. Free refreshments after the concert.

Spring Concert

Mar 23

Plymouth Philharmonic Choir perform Puccini’s Messa di Gloria and Rossini’s Stata Mater at St Andrew’s Church, Royal Parade at 7.30pm. The choir will be joined by four first class soloists and orchestra. Tickets £18 in advance or £20 on the door, students and U16s £5. Tickets from wegottickets.com/ events/586917 or the choir ticket manager 07949 311030. For more information, visit plymouthphilchoir. org

Easter Activities

Mar 23 to Apr 14

Saltram invites visitors to make their way around the garden and find 10 colourful activities, including active games and interactive challenges for all the family to get stuck into. Full of fun and colour, race around a race-track in the trees, compete in a sack race, go on a colour-hunt, and much more. Normal admission plus £3 per trail, includes an Easter trail sheet and a chocolate egg, or a vegan ‘Free-From’ chocolate egg, both made using cocoa from Rainforest Alliance Certified farms. For details and times visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/devon/saltram

Easter Fair

Mar 23

Onward House Community Centre in Greenbank from 2pm to 4.30pm. Something for all the family

The popular Oktoberfest is returning to Plymouth in October following a huge sell out in 2023. The event takes place on Saturday October 26 with sessions in the afternoon and evening. Details from www.oktobergestplymouth.co.uk

with face painting, children’s Easter Egg hunt, raffle, refreshments and much more. To book a table to sell crafts contact Alison 01752 251641.

World in Union

Mar 23 and Mar 26

Sir Joshua Reynolds Choir present an evening of well loved music for Passiontide with musical director Jenny George and soloist Anna Kalas. Sherwell United Church at 7.30pm on March 23 and 7.30pm at St Matthew’s Church, Elburton. Tickets £10 in aid of the Children’s Society. Tickets on the door or in advance from 01752 345390 and 880730.

Earth Hour

Mar 23

An annual worldwide event, set up by WWF in 2007 at Plymouth Unitarian Church, Notte Street at 8pm. Join millions from around the globe, as electric lights are switched off for an hour to show symbolic support for the planet and raise awareness of the environmental issues affecting everyone. Prayers, readings about the environment, live music and time for quiet reflection followed by light refreshments. Free event open to all. More details at www.earthhour.org

Tim Vine - Breeeep!

Mar 24

Tim Vine is back with a brand new stand-up show at the Quad Theatre on the Marjon campus. Enjoy a mountain of nonsense, daft one-liners, joyful songs, wobbly props and ridiculous humour. Plus utter drivel. Witness the stupidity. Then leave. Tickets from www.comicalentertainment.com

Collectors Toy & Train Fair

Mar 24

Organised by the Plymouth Diecast Club at the Jan Cutting Healthy Living Centre, Scott Business Park, Beacon Park Rd, Plymouth from 10am to 1pm. Adults £1. Accompanied children Free. Free Parking onsite. Cafe open. Wheelchair friendly.

Spring Fair

Mar 28

St Budeaux Church Community Hall, behind where the Blue Monkey used to be, at Higher St Budeaux, is holding its popular event from 11am to 2.30pm. Everyone welcome, and a great choice of tables to browse, good refreshments, cakes and pasties, and only 20p entry.

Eggstraordinary Barbican Easter Trail

Mar 29 to Apr 14

Free family fun during the Easter break. Just collect a trail sheet from the Tourist information Centre on the Barbican. Discover who will be hatching from the eggs

hidden on the trail, they are all creatures that live in or around the Barbican except one, spot the odd one out for an Easter treat. For details go to the What’s On section at www.visitplymouth.co.uk

Coffee Morning

Apr 6

Crownhill Methodist Church Hall from 10.30am to 12 noon. Various stalls in aid of St Luke’s Hospice. All welcome.

St Luke’s Men’s Day Out

Apr 6

March memorable miles to support St Luke’s Hospice expert care. An unmissable mix of miles, mates, memories and it’s back for 2024! Grab your pals, join the mass of big-hearted men marching through Plymouth to make a massive difference to families who need the compassionate, expert care St Luke’s provides at the toughest of times. Places for the event always go fast. for full details and egistration visit www.stlukeshospice.org.uk/mensdayout

Fishermen’s Friends

Apr 6

Cornwall’s beloved singers bring their brand-new major headline tour for 2024 to Plymouth Pavilions. Fisherman’s Friend have nine albums to their name, two feature films, a stage musical, a book, a TV documentary, they’ve played for royalty and to tens of thousands of fans in sell-out tours year in year out. Tickets from www. theticketstore.co.uk or call 01752 522205.

Come and Sing

Apr 6

Brent Singers are inviting singers interested to Come and Sing Faurés timeless Requiem and Vaughan Williams’ Five Mystical Songs at Buckfast Abbey. Singers are welcome to join the afternoon rehearsal and then join the evening performance. Tickets for the come and sing are £20, which includes music and refreshments. Visit www.brentsingers.org.uk. The concert performance is at 7.30pm with tickets available from the Abbey website www.buckfast.org. uk/events/faure-requiem

Spring Exhibition and Sale of Work

Apr 7 to 14

Organised by Plymouth Arts Club at the Church of the Ascension Church Hall, The Lawns, Tavistock Road. Monday to Saturday 10am to 4pm; Sundays 12 noon to 4pm. Details at www.plymouthartsclub.co.uk

Andy Parsons

Apr 12

Following a complete sell out at the Edinburgh Fringe Andy Parsons brings his Bafflingly Optimistic Tour to the Quad Theatre on the Marjon campus at 8pm. Tickets and details at www.andyparsons.co.uk

Tin Soldier

Apr 17 to Apr 20

The story of Steve Marriott and Ronnie Lane, ex-Small Faces, how their lives and careers went very different ways, leading to two very tragic ends. It’s a play with music (rather than a musical) and it plays the Soapbox theatre in Devonport Park at 7.30pm each night. Tickets from www.wegottickets.com

Brunel Quilters Exhibition

Apr 20

An exhibition of quilts and textile works by Brunel Quilters, plus charity quilt raffle, sales table and refreshments at Saltash Wesley Church, Callington Road, Saltash from 10am to 4pm. Entry £2.

Britain’s Ocean City Running Festival

Apr 28

Entries now open for the Festival which features distances of half marathon, 10k and 5k from Plymouth Hoe. Sign up at www.runplymouth.co.uk

Green Man Weekend

May 25 and 26

Fantastic mix of entertainment provided by local bands circus acts, Morris Dancers, re-enactment groups and much more ay Mount Edgcumbe. Traditional family activities will be running throughout the event along with food and craft stalls, bouncy castles, beer tent and much more. Details at www. mountedgcumbe.gov.uk

Charity Murder Mystery Evening

May 31

Candlelight Murder Mystery present the event in aid of the Samaritans Plymouth at Plympton Conservative Club at 7pm. Tickets £35 including a two course meal. Call Vanessa or Suzanne on 07942 740759 or email shooper2021@gmail.com for details and tickets.

Plymouth Model and Railway Show

Jun 30

The show will be held at the John Kitto YMCA Centre from 10am to 4pm. Features include a D-Day 80 display along with local and south west model clubs displaying a large range of static and radio controlled models. These are supported by model railways and traders selling models and accessories. The Centre is disabled friendly and also has a cafe onsite. Admission adults £5, concessions £3 and families £10. Further details from Ken Cork, 01752 258604 or email: ekcork@btinternet.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.

Measures to encourage more private hire drivers

New private hire drivers will no longer have to take the ‘Knowledge of Plymouth’ test as part of a proposal to encourage more people into the trade and help the city’s night time economy.

Plymouth City Council’s Cabinet is being asked to remove the test requirement following a consultation in the autumn which looked at changes to the Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Policy.

They are also being asked to drop the requirement for green and white livery on Hackney Carriages, given the cost of living and the lack of appropriate vehicles available.

Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Libraries, Cemeteries and Crematoria said: “We had a good response from the trade and would like to thank them for their helpful input.

“We know, that like other areas of the local economy, that they have been hit hard by fuel prices and the cost of living. This is one of the reasons why we are no longer requiring taxis to have the green and white livery. While it was a great idea, the reality is getting the white vehicles needed proved too difficult and expensive.”

The Knowledge of Plymouth test assesses drivers’ knowledge of the quickest available routes, venues, tourist destinations and popular locations as well as the law and conditions of licence and customer care. It is an exam taken under supervised exam conditions.

An error in the policy wording about the knowledge test only applying to hackney carriage drivers led to an increase in people applying to become licensed private hire drivers.

While there was less support from the trade about dropping the test, the Department of Transport recently issued best practice guidance which stated that given technology used by taxi operators, the test should be removed for private hire drivers as they know their planned route in advance.

Sally said: “We need more people in the trade. We need more drivers so that people feel they can get home after a great night out in Plymouth.  We know there are bar and restaurant staff who struggle to get a ride home after an evening shift.

“We need to be more pragmatic and remove barriers to people becoming drivers – times have changed, drivers can use sat nav and apps on smart phones to help them navigate around our city. Modern dispatch systems send bookings direct to the drivers’ data pads, which have the inbuilt GPS navigation.”

The Cabinet report highlights that the council also considered the outcomes of the Violence Against Women and Girls Commission where it was reported that the reduced numbers of taxis and private hire had an impact on the perceived safety of women and girls.

Councillor Haydon added: “We are proud to have Purple Flag status, which recognises the fact this city is safe after dark, but being stuck for hours not being able to get home is not helping our residents or visitors. We hope these changes, if approved, will lead to more people becoming private hire drivers and help our residents as well as our pubs and restaurants.”

If Cabinet approve the proposals when they meet in January, the matter will go to

DERRIFORD BOSS ANN JAMES STEPS DOWN AFTER 12 YEARS IN CHARGE

Ann James is to stand down as chief executive of University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust.

She has spent more than 12 years leading the Trust and 35 years in the NHS. Ann began her NHS career as a management trainee in 1989 and held many key leadership positions across the NHS in the south west, before taking up her current post in September 2012.

She has been an exemplary and incredibly driven, public servant and made a significant contribution to improving healthcare across Devon and Cornwall, most notably in Plymouth, in very challenging circumstances.

Trust Chair James Brent said: “I want to lead the thanks to Ann for her commitment, dedication, professionalism and her very values-driven leadership but I know I will not be alone in thanking her.

“Under Ann’s leadership UHP has achieved so much – often in difficult circumstances –including her leadership through the difficult pandemic period, her embodiment of the values that are the beating heart of this organisation, her passionate support of UHP’s role as a teaching hospital and military city; her development of the Healthy Lives Partnership with Livewell Southwest and securing in excess of £300m investment for capital developments such as the new Royal Eye Infirmary and the new Community Diagnostic Centre as well as for the Urgent and Emergency Care Centre – Phase 1 of Future Hospitals.

“She has also led regionally during this time, for example chairing the Peninsula Pathology Network, the Peninsula Cancer Alliance and has been Chair of the Southwest Leadership and Talent Academy. “We are all hugely grateful to Ann for her commitment to the Trust, its staff and the communities that we serve and we wish her the very best as she heads into the next phase of her journey.”

Ann said: “It has been the greatest honour to play a part in the incredible journey of UHP and it was never going to be easy, or feel like the right time, to step away from being chief executive.

“The teams at UHP lead with compassion, give outstanding care and work hard every day to deliver clinical excellence despite many challenges. It has been a heartfelt honour to be part of that and of all my 35 years in the NHS, the time I spent at UHP will undoubtedly be the years I will treasure and remember the most.

“University Hospitals Plymouth has a very exciting future ahead, with so many wonderful people working in the organisation and I wish all of my colleagues all the very best for the next 12 years and beyond.”

Ann will step down as chief executive at the end of March and the recruitment process to appoint an interim and then substantive successor will begin shortly.

Celebrating Excellence in Care Awards to honour Plymouth’s best care workers

The Celebrating Excellence in Care Awards are returning to Plymouth for the first time since 2019.

The awards celebrate and recognise the very best staff working in the adult social care sector in the city, including those working in care homes, supported living provision, day centres and domiciliary care supporting people to remain living in their own homes.

The return of the awards has been driven by the new city-wide health and social care partnership, Caring Plymouth, which is working to connect local people with opportunities for skills, training and careers in the sector. The partnership’s immediate focus is on tackling staff recruitment and retention in adult social care.

Nominations are now open for this year’s awards and there are more than 30 categories, including Care Worker of the Year, Nurse of the Year, Ancillary Worker of the Year and Culinary Care Team.

People across the city, including managers, colleagues, someone receiving care or one of their family members are now invited to submit a nomination to recognise enthusiastic and dedicated staff members or teams.

Nominations will remain open until Monday February 26 and the winners will then be chosen by an independent panel of judges.

The winners will be celebrated at an awards ceremony on March 23 at the Crowne Plaza, with a

trophy and certificate for every winner. Councillor Mary Aspinall, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care said: “The awards give us an incredible opportunity to say thank you to everyone working in adult social care in Plymouth, and to recognise all of the fantastic work that takes place every day across the city.

“Our social care workers are hugely valued and play such an important role in the local community.

“Every single day they help adults to live fulfilling and dignified lives, providing all the extra help and care they need whether that be

in their own home, a care home or in supported living facilities.

“If you know someone working in adult social care that has gone above and beyond to help the people they support, please show them the recognition they deserve and nominate them for an award.”

Awards nominations can be submitted at www.plymouthonlinedirectory.com/ celebratingecxcellenceincare

Learn more about Caring Plymouth and find support to access training or jobs at  www.skillslaunchpadplym.co.uk/caringplymouth

Three key priorities for Plymouth’s dental taskforce

Plymouth’s Dental Taskforce has agreed the three key priorities that it will collectively work towards to improve NHS dental provision for local residents.

The taskforce was created last year in response to the city’s growing dental crisis, which has seen over 22,000 Plymouth residents join the waiting list for an NHS dentist. The cross-party group includes representatives from Plymouth City Council, NHS Devon, Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise (PDSE), Livewell Southwest and University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust as well as the city’s three MPs.

The taskforce has agreed to focus on three key priorities:

• Deliver a new dental facility in the city centre run by the Peninsula Dental School which is aligned to the oral health needs in the city.

• Provide additional funding to Plymouth City Council to enable it to enhance the oral health improvement offer available in the city, to help prevent dental health issues.

• Use some of Plymouth’s annual NHS dental underspend to commission new services for high priority groups and those who don’t have access to an NHS dentist.

Since June 2023 the taskforce has been working to deliver improvements, such as a new scheme by PDSE to provide NHS dental appointments to primary school children. It will now focus on campaigning for and delivering these three priorities.

Councillor Mary Aspinall, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care and Chair of the Taskforce said: “There is still a huge amount of work to be done in Plymouth and so we will keep campaigning for better outcomes for our residents. At the moment the situation is only getting worse. There are thousands of people still waiting for an NHS dentist and we believe this is just the tip of the iceberg, because it doesn’t capture the number of people who don’t have an NHS dentist but haven’t joined the waiting list, or who have simply given up and had to pay private dental fees.

The underspend is a result of some high street dentists not being able to provide NHS appointments, and historically this money has been returned. In future it is hoped that this funding will be ringfenced to use towards other oral health initiatives in the city.

Luke Pollard, MP for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport, said: “It is ridiculous that when faced with a growing NHS dental crisis in our city, we return millions in unspent dental funding each year simply because there aren’t enough dentists in Plymouth to use the paltry funding we have been allocated.

“The problem is only getting worse in Plymouth, with thousands still unable to see a dentist. That’s why I have relentlessly campaigned for building a new city centre dental hub to provide urgent care and prioritising

the training of more dentists for our city.

“These three priorities set out by Plymouth’s Dental Taskforce will help focus our collective lobbying and build on the campaigns I’ve been running as a local MP since 2017.”

Johnny Mercer, MP for Plymouth Moor View, said: “I have been clear that Plymouth’s dental provision is in an unacceptable state. Last November, I facilitated free dental appointments for schoolkids at Peninsula Dental School. Progress since has been frustratingly slow. I welcome the Dental Task Force’s newly-agreed three priorities which will deliver long-overdue improvements to our City’s dental care. These three local priorities will complement the Government’s NHS Dental Recovery Plan which creates 2.5m extra appointments and helps areas like ours where recruitment is difficult.”

Gary Streeter, MP for South West Devon said: “The recent announcement of the NHS Dentistry Recovery Plan and its significant new investment by government is hugely to be welcomed but we will continue to work together locally to improve services for local people.”

Dental taskforce (left to right) Back row: Dr Sarah Wollaston, NHS Devon; Rob Witton, PDSE; Cllr John Mahoney, Shadow Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care; Nigel Acheson, NHS Devon;, Rob Nelder, Plymouth City Council. Front row: Cllr Mark Lowry, Cabinet Member for Finance; Johnny Mercer, MP for Plymouth Moor View; Cllr Mary Aspinall, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care; Luke Pollard, MP for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport; Claire Roberts, Livewell Southwest

Teenager Sofia scoops top award for her work tackling Violence Against Women and Girls

Young people from across the Southwest came together recently to celebrate the work of local Youth Parliament Members and recognise their work supporting the local communities – with Plymouth’s teenage representative scooping a top award.

The British Youth Council held ‘Youth Con’ in Plymouth, where around 40 young people and youth workers came together to discuss local and national issues that matter to children and young people. At the event, a series of awards were also presented by the Lord Mayor, to recognise those young people who have gone above and beyond.

Eighteen-year-old Sofia Elliot, who is a member of the Plymouth Youth Parliament, was presented with the southwest ‘Campaigner of the Year’ award, for her efforts in raising awareness of Violence Against Women and Girls.

Sofia has been very proactive in working to help tackle Violence Against Women and Girls in

Plymouth, including participating in a number of discussion panels alongside councillors and

organisations discussing women’s safety, such as attending the Youth Conference organised by Councillor Zoe Reilly during the 16 Days of Activism. She was able to not only represent the voice of young people – but also provide advice and guidance to decision makers.

Sofia has designed resource materials for schools and has campaigned for better education in schools and colleges. And she has created workshops to improve awareness of the issues, working alongside local MPs and councillors. Sofia also has worked tirelessly with Trevi, the leading local women’s charity and recently raised over £700 with a silent auction and a raffle.

Sofia said: “I was really surprised to be honest! I know a lot of young people have been working so hard this year across the whole southwest on amazing campaigns, but it was amazing to be recognised for the work I’ve been doing as it’s been a lot of effort but so worth it!”

Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet Member for Community Safety,

said: “Sofia has worked tirelessly to continue campaigning for the safety of women and girls, I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this award, she is a brilliant example of a young person who really cares about her city and making it feel and be safer, she is a great voice for young people, keep up with the amazing work.”

Councillor Zoe Reilly, Violence Against Women and Girls Champion said: “Sofia has been with Youth Parliament for seven years and she always brings a smile to the sessions, she supports new members of the group and is a fantastic role model to everyone she works with and supports.

“Sofia has worked closely with me on raising awareness of VAWG sitting on panels and helping to organise the Youth Conference during the 16 Days of Activism. I am inspired both by her determination and her passion in this area, she is studying for her A-Levels and has not let that slow down our progress. I am incredibly proud of Sofia and look forward to what comes next.”

Volunteer Lisa making her mark at Mount Gould Rehab Unit

After becoming very unwell last year, Lisa Matthews became a patient at the Mount Gould Rehabilitation Unit.

She noticed that there weren’t any volunteers at that time. Unable to return to her job after her illness, Lisa decided to get in touch with the Volunteer Services team at University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust (UHP) to enquire about helping, specifically at the Rehab Unit.

The General Rehab Unit – Skylark and Kingfisher wards at Mount Gould – have a capacity of 35 patients each. The unit sees patients that are on a rehab journey with the intention to get them home or into a care home.

They provide physiotherapy, occupational therapy intervention and social worker support. Lisa starts her day by speaking to staff to understand which patients require support that day.

She helps patients by simply chatting to them, helping with activities such as colouring and reading, or taking them out into the garden, which is tended to by another UHP volunteer, Ann.

Lisa also likes to help with encouraging the patients to eat and drink. Lisa said: “From start to finish, the process of becoming a volunteer only took a few weeks.

“Staff were on hand to assist with my application, and I had to complete some online training before starting.”

She continued: “The staff are fantastic. The care they give to patients is amazing. The support staff treat me like a member of the team which is what I need, as I have been unable to return to my previous employment.

“Volunteering has given me a purpose. The staff always thank me, and I really adore it.”

Elaine Nicholl, community hospital support manager, said: “To get volunteers here has made a massive difference to patient welfare, but also to staff welfare because they feel like some of the pressure has been removed as patients want the clinical staff to spend time with them, but they don’t have the capacity to do that.”

Lisa Matthews

Sofia Elliot

New car club operators are announced

Plymouth’s drive to make people less reliant on private cars is back on the road with a new contract for a car club as part of Connect Plymouth – the city’s expanding sustainable travel network.

A decision has been signed to award a contract to Co Wheels CIC, now the UK’s largest community interest car club operator.

The company runs pay-as-you go car clubs, pool car fleet management and franchise operations in over 60 towns and cities across the UK with a 24/7 call centre.

The Plymouth fleet will be all electric vehicles and people will be able to book them online, on apps on their phones to pick up at hubs which are dotted across the city.

This contract has been re-procured following the unfortunate demise of Exeter based Co Cars, which went into administration last July.

Councillor Mark Coker, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Transport said:

“Welcome Co Wheels to Plymouth. We have been delighted to see how much Plymouth people have taken to the Beryl bikes and the growing interest in electric vehicles.

“We think there is a real appetite for people to explore greener ways of getting around and a car club is a great addition to our offer.

“Not only is an electric vehicle for hire greener, it is cheaper than a car sitting outside homes costing money in MOT, tax, servicing and fuel.”

The scheme will provide at least 10 vehicles which will be available for hire 24 hours a day, 365 days per year. This is for an initial period of four years with an option to extend. The first cars are expected to be on the streets later this Spring.

The council’s Connect Plymouth network now has 105 e-bike sites across the city, with 689 docks and over 500 e-bikes now in operation. There are nine rapid EV charge point sites provided by WENEA now up and running with a further 15 being built and an additional 20 sites due to come online during 2024.

Councillor Tom Briars-Delve, Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change added:

“Transport accounts for 30 per cent of the city’s total emissions and is an area which requires a major change in public behaviour if we are to achieve our net zero target.

“Electric vehicles play a key part in this, but we realise to own one is out of reach for many people.

“Being part of a car club that gives you easy access to electric vehicles can only be a massive step in the right direction. I look forward to joining the club.”

Connect Plymouth is part funded by the Department for Transport’s Transforming Cities Fund (TCF), which aims to change people’s travel habits by making it as easy as possible for people to choose low carbon options to get about.

The schemes improve access to work, restart the city’s growth agenda, deliver homes, safeguard and create new jobs.  It is also designed to improve air quality and reduce the city’s overall carbon emissions as a direct response to the city’s climate emergency declaration.

For more information about the new car club operators visit www.co-wheels.org.uk/about-us

Plymouth student nurse is nominated for no less than three top awards!

Plymouth University has been shortlisted in four categories of national nursing awards - with one student nominated in no fewer than three.

The university is in the running for the inaugural Nursing Apprenticeship Provider of the Year prize at the Student Nursing Times Awards – which celebrate quality in all specialities of student nursing.

Meanwhile Jenita Loheswaran is shortlisted for Student Nurse of the Year (Adult); Outstanding Contribution to Student Affairs; and the Mary Seacole Award for Outstanding Contribution to Diversity and Inclusion.

The latest shortlists follow Plymouth’s win in 2022 for Nursing Associate Training Programme Provider of the Year, and the 2024 winners will be announced at a ceremony in London in April.

The degree apprenticeship award recognises the breadth of theuniversity’s nursing degree

Janita Loheswaran

apprenticeship provision, across undergraduate and postgraduate, and incorporates all three of its teaching sites in Plymouth, Truro and Exeter.

One Cornish care home owner recently credited the university’s degree apprenticeships with helping him to ‘grow a new generation of nurses’.

Studying BSc Nursing at the University’s Truro campus, Jenita is currently working as a Nursing

Associate at Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust.

She also has a Biomedical Sciences degree from the university, and studied as a degree apprentice for her Nursing Associate qualification.

She said: “I’m blown away to have been shortlisted in three categories of the Student Nursing Times Awards. I’m passionate about diversity in healthcare, so it’s wonderful to be recognised in this way.

“The best thing about my training

is seeing the positive impact I can have on people’s lives every day –whether they’re patients, families, or fellow students. I’m having a great learning experience so far and I can’t wait to see what comes next.”

Plymouth University has the largest range of healthcare courses in the South West, with degree apprenticeships one of the many ways that it is looking to recruit and inspire the healthcare workforce of the future.

Caroline Jamison, associate professor and academic lead for the Nursing Degree Apprenticeships, said: “We are so thrilled to be shortlisted for Nursing Apprenticeship Provider of the Year, as we’re incredibly proud of our degree apprenticeship offer and collegiate relationship with our partners in the South West and beyond. We’re also incredibly proud of Jenita too – being shortlisted once is amazing but three times is outstanding, reflects all the hard work she puts into her training.”

Council leader slams ‘immoral’ profits of companies caring for young people

Plymouth City Council is calling for greater scrutiny of private companies profiting from the care of vulnerable children and young people.

Council Leader Tudor Evans has written to David Johnston MP, Minister for Children, Families and Wellbeing, to express concern about the huge profits being made by private companies that provide children’s social care placements. This follows a Motion on Notice tabled by Councillor Jemima Laing at the Full Council meeting in January.

There are currently 520 children in the council’s care and they are supported by a range of providers. Due to a lack of suitable placements, such as foster homes, this includes privately-owned, profit-making organisations.

With 52 children currently residing in residential care at an average cost of £328,719 per child, per year, the total annual spend with these organisations makes up 13 per cent of the council’s overall annual budget for 2023/24.

A recent Local Government Association (LGA) report found that the 20 largest providers of children’s social care collectively made profits of £310 million in 2021/22, a 19 per cent profit margin on their total income.

Councillor Evans said: “It is completely immoral that these companies are profiting at such huge levels. Caring for the most vulnerable children and young people in our society should not provide an opportunity for material gain.

“These companies are collectively making millions of pounds worth of profit each year, while local authorities across the country are struggling to balance their finances and hardworking taxpayers are struggling with rising costs.”

Councillor Laing, Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Care, said: “All of our children and young people deserve the very best start in life, with the best possible care and ensuring their safety and wellbeing is absolutely paramount.

“This is not simply about cutting costs, because our priority is always to make sure that each individual child is receiving the care that they need whatever the cost.

“But we need more transparency about the fees that we are being charged, because these are public funds and the more we spend on these services, the less funding is available for other preventative programmes that help to keep families together.

“We completely understand that providers need to cover their operating costs and save funding for future investments, but the Government needs to look into this more closely.

“It is absolutely scandalous that this much money is being made from such a vitally important service.”

The council is asking for the Government to investigate the largest providers to children’s social care services so that there is greater scrutiny of the fees they charge and how any profits are distributed.

MPs urged to back better protection for care experienced young people

Plymouth MPs are being urged to support a change in the law to ensure care experienced young people are better supported as they become adults.

Councillor Jemima Laing, Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Care, is calling on the city’s three MPs to back a move that would give young people who have been in care the same protection against discrimination that the Equalities Act already gives on characteristics such as age, sex and race.

Councillor Laing, who also chairs the Council’s Corporate Parenting Group, said: “As a council we are an ambitious corporate parent and are fully committed to ensuring that the children and young people in our care can fulfil their potential.

“We have already agreed as an organisation that we will treat care experience as if it were a protected characteristic in the same way that other characteristics are protected but we now want to see this backed up by the law everywhere.

“The experiences of those who have been in the care system, in

foster care and in residential care are varied but the challenges some face can have profound and lasting impacts.

“We believe it is vital to recognise the additional challenges and barriers that care experienced individuals face so we are calling on our MPs to support a change to the Equality Act (2010) that broadens corporate parenting responsibilities across a wider set of public bodies and organisations, as recommended by the Independent Review of Children’s Social – the MacAlister Review.”

Councillor Laing said the change would be relatively easy to make as it would simply require the Government to lay a statutory instrument to extend the list of protected characteristics under the Equality Act (2010) to include care experienced individuals.

She said: “This is a simple change that could make a big impact on the lives of many young people. It would give local authorities and other public bodies greater authority to put in place policies and programmes that would lead to better outcomes for care experienced people.”

New crematorium just months away from opening

The Park, Plymouth’s brand new crematorium, has hit its latest significant construction milestone.

Located off Haye Road in Plympton, The Park has designs inspired by the landscape, where the buildings will nestle into the slope of the site.

With the just a few months until building work finishes, representatives from the council and construction partner Kier gathered to lay a foundation stone that will be placed outside the entrance to one of the new Ceremony Rooms.

It marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the Council’s Bereavement Service who will move to the site when construction finishes this summer.

Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet member for Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Libraries, Cemeteries & Crematoria, said: “I am so honoured to have been able to lay this foundation stone at The Park, which will be an incredible asset for Plymouth and its residents for many years to come.

“The road to this point has seen colossal efforts by so many council members and officers and also our fantastic partner organisations.

“I can’t wait to come back here in a few months to see the site finished and operational for the first time.”

Doug Lloyd, regional director at Kier Construction, Western & Wales, said: “It is a huge pleasure to lay the foundation stone at the Park as we celebrate the new facility taking shape and the positive impact it has already had on the local community.

“Throughout this project, we have worked with Plymouth City Council and Building

Jobs boost as DWP launches major recruitment drive

Over 100 jobs are up for grabs after the Government launched its latest wave of a major recruitment drive in Plymouth.

The Department for Work and Pensions is recruiting up to 140 new universal cedit review agents who will play a key role in the Government’s £3.5billion drive to get thousands more into work and grow the economy.

Applications opened on February 15 and anyone who is looking for a civil service career is encouraged to apply.

Universal Credit review agents check claims to ensure people are receiving the payments they are entitled to.

Plymouth to provide local employment opportunities, including apprentices and work experience placements.

“Our local supply chain has also played an integral role in the delivery of this scheme, which is months away from being completed.”

The Park which will neighbour Drake Memorial Park, is being built with Plymouth Limestone and the Ceremony Rooms look out onto pooled water.

Outside, reflective spaces, designed for memorialisation and scatterings will embrace the local environment and ecology.

In addition, the site will benefit from a new café, which will be open to serve refreshments for people attending funerals and also for

those visiting the site to pay their respects.

Crucially, though, it will have two rooms available for families to hire for wakes, memorialisation events or other family functions. The rooms will be able to accommodate up to 40 guests or combine both rooms with the retractable wall and it will hold 75 guests.

Later this year, the Bereavement Service team will move to The Park from its existing base at Weston Mill. At that point, all cremations will take place at The Park, with Efford and Weston Mill still active for burial and memorials. More information on plans for the new crematorium can be found at www. plymouthcrematoria.com

Successful applicants will be part of an exciting new team offering on-the-job learning and development, with opportunities for hybrid working to fit around your home life and caring responsibilities.

Patrick, a universal credit review agent, said: “My job in DWP is very rewarding. I love the teamwork and the career development opportunities in the civil service.”

His colleague Doreen agreed: “If you enjoy helping customers and want to work with a great team, working for DWP could be the job for you.”

Those interested in applying should search ‘DWP EO jobs’ online or go to www.dwpjobseorecruitment-microsite.co.uk/

Representatives from the Council and Kier Construction. From left to right, Kate Swain, Kier marketing manager; Kristian Cartwright, Kier contracts manager; Paul Fletcher, Kier senior project manager; Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet Member responsible for Bereavement Services; Council Leader Tudor Evans; Doug Lloyd, Kier regional director; Nick Anderson, associate partner of Ward Williams Associates and Simon Gillingham, Kier senior project manager

PLYMOUTH’S PLAN FOR HOMES DELIVERS OVER 7,500 NEW HOMES IN NINE YEARS

Plymouth’s innovative Plan for Homes programme has now delivered more than 7,500 new homes across the city over the past nine years.

The Plan for Homes details the council’s priorities for ensuring that the city has the housing to tackle the local effects of the national housing crisis as well as cater for the city’s growth agenda.

Now in its third incarnation, the successes of the programme were debated by the council’s Growth and Infrastructure Overview and Scrutiny Committee in February before the fourth version of the plan goes to Cabinet in March.

“When you sit back and look at what we’ve achieved since the initial plan was drawn up, it’s really quite something,” said Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet member for Housing, Communities and Cooperative Development.

“By working to a set strategy, and by working in partnership with a number of organisations, both locally and nationally, we’ve been able to make things happen; move things along and crucially, make a real difference to residents by delivering the housing needed by so many.”

The purpose of the Plan for Homes is to support a variety of new and affordable housing to tackle housing needs and homelessness whilst addressing existing poor housing conditions.

It also sets out a clear ambition for the future of housing in the city by intervening in the market to provide the homes Plymouth people need whilst supporting the delivery of the Joint Local Plan housing numbers.

Successes so far have included:

• 7,581 homes delivered in all of which 1,980 are affordable

• 48 council sites released to developers for new homes

• Partnered on the regeneration of Devonport, North

Prospect and Barne Barton

• 385 long term empty homes brought back into use

• Specific schemes for certain groups including service veterans, adults with learning disabilities, Extra Care for older persons.

• Supported innovative affordable homeownership schemes like RentPlus.

• Helped numerous self and customer build projects to succeed in building their own house.

• Close to completing on the first council-built housing

Artist’s impression of Broadland Gardens in Plymstock - the first council built homes for decades

project for 40 years.

While the first three plans have been a success, there is still more work to be done to ensure that Plymouth has the homes it needs over the next few years.

“It would be very easy to pat ourselves on the back for job well done but as it is well documented, we’re in the middle of a housing crisis,” added Councillor Penberthy.

“We have to kick on from here and the new Plan for Homes 4 will do exactly that.

“Much will be the same – you don’t change a winning team – but we do have to adapt which is why a focus on more energy efficient homes will be a key pillar, along with a goal to drive up standards in the private rental sector and reduce the impacts of homelessness.

“Plan for Homes has been a great success and we must ensure that it continues to thrive over the next five years.”

Plan for Homes 4 is set to be presented at the meeting of the Cabinet on March 11.

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

Warm,

Major new Derriford shopping and leisure facility providing opportunities for apprentices

A major new shopping and leisure facility for Plymouth is providing significant opportunities for apprentices and trainees in the construction industry.

Work on the Derriford District Centre is at the halfway stage and due to be completed this September. Confirmed tenants include a Marks & Spencer Foodhall, an Aldi supermarket, a Costa Coffee, a gym operated by PureGym, a Pets Corner pet shop and an Oggy Oggy pasty shop.

Developers ADC Kimberley Ltd and main contractors, Exeter-based Devon Contractors revealed the site is helping apprentices in a range of construction industry trades to gain experience on a major building site.

Jonathan Banham, from ADC Kimberley, said: “It is fantastic to see this project delivering, not just for the people of Plymouth who will get a range of vital new facilities in this part of the city, but also for young people who want to follow a career in construction.”

There are currently five or six apprentices on site at any one time, three employed by roofing and cladding contractor Progressive and the others working for bricklaying subcontractor Plym Bricklaying.

Across the build period the developers and their contractors will provide apprentice opportunities for up to 14 people including, in the later stages, those engaged in dry-lining and landscaping.

Leader of Plymouth City Council, Councillor Tudor Evans said: “The developers are really cracking on with the job and it’s brilliant to see a site that was once empty so full of workers, especially young people learning new skills.

“This is a hugely important regeneration project for the city and is the last major area of land on the Plymouth International Science and Medical Park to be developed.”

Darren Harper-Thomas is one of the apprentice bricklayers on the site.  The 17-year-old is training with Plym Bricklayers through a course run by the Plymouth-based Greenlight Apprenticeship Centre. He said he had been working on a number of sites and was now pleased to be part of the team at the

Plymouth District Centre.

“We’ve been doing some six-inch blockwork on the Aldi supermarket,” he said. “I’ve always wanted a job in construction – it’s proper grafting and you learn a skill.  I’m hoping that when I finish my apprenticeship I can get a full-time job with Plym Bricklaying – I love it!”

Emma Hewitt, Skills Lead at Plymouth City Council representing Building Plymouth said: “Investment in developments such as the Derriford District Centre create massive opportunities for construction skills, training, job creation including apprenticeships.

“Working closely with the onsite team at Derriford, we are creating exciting chances for young people to understand careers in construction through opening the site for local school visits, offering work experience placements, delivering careers activities, and also supporting new apprentices to take their first steps into the industry.”

The council owns the site and worked with the developers to bring the project to fruition. It is providing work for 20 sub-contracting businesses employing a total of more than 150 tradespeople through the build. The majority are based locally, boosting the Plymouth economy and helping many improve their skills with significant on-the-job training.

Included in the development are 12 electric vehicle charging points along with sustainable transport links to help reduce car use, cycle lanes and the provision of easy pedestrian access to bus stops.

The centre is near to a major new housing development and some of Plymouth’s biggest employers, including Derriford Hospital and the Land Registry.

The site had remained derelict for over 20 years and unused, except as a Covid test centre until the redevelopment project began.

NATIONAL AWARD FOR SOUTHWAY FUNERAL BUSINESS

A funeral directors based in Southway has won a prestigious national award.

Southwest Funeral Care won the title of Low Cost Funeral Provider of the Year for 2023 in the Good Funeral Awards scheme.

The family run business were unaware they had been nominated for the award and then received confirmation that they had been shortlisted as a finalist. The awards are chosen by public nominations and Southwest Funeral Care were delighted to be notified that they had won the award.

Southwest Funeral Care are an independent family owned business located in Southway, serving Plymouth and surrounding areas and have been providing funerals for three years.

Stacey Warren, a Director at Southwest Funeral Care, said: “Opening a business during Covid was hard, but three years on we are truly humbled by the support of our families and our community.

“We pride ourselves on keeping funeral costs as low as possible. We whole heartedly understand that that planning a funeral for a loved one is one of the hardest and emotionally challenging

experiences anyone will ever go through.

“We provide a range of services, priding ourselves on giving personal attention to every funeral, which is tailored to your request. Our aim is to ensure that every funeral is arranged and carried out exactly as the family would wish down to the smallest detail.

“With this in mind we have created a range of funeral packages to help families say goodbye in a caring and dignified manor to suit every budget. Our Citadel Lounge provides a calming place to host a more intimate in-house service, and we are able to provide a weekend service if required.

Southwest Funeral Care are able to provide an in-house laser engraving service for fingerprint jewellery, plaques and keepsakes. We ensure our prices are realistic and within our families budget. We would advise anyone going through the experience of having to plan a funeral to speak to a member of our team, who will help and guide you through this difficult time.”

For further information visit Southwest Funeral Care website at www.southwestfuneralcare.co.uk or call 01752 651020.

Leader of Plymouth City Council Tudor Evans (centre) visited the site where he was shown around by (L-R) Matt Ward, head of Development Projects, Plymouth City Council, Jonathan Banham, ADC Kimberley, Sam Nicholson, principal surveyor, Plymouth City Council, Adam Wright, project lead and Steve Rosewell, both from Devon Contractors and apprentice Darren Harper-Thomas of Plym Bricklaying. Photo credit: Guy Newman/KOR Communications

All systems go as new Armada Way design approved by council leaders

The new design for Armada Way has been confirmed following one of the largest listening exercises ever carried out by Plymouth City Council and a cross-party scrutiny review.

The council’s Cabinet confirmed the new design for Armada Way on February 19, giving the green light for further work on the cost of construction.

The design includes 10 changes that were made as a result of the public consultation and more changes that were suggested by a cross-party scrutiny committee who reviewed the scheme last month.

Councillor Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “In May I promised to take control of the Armada Way regeneration. I pledged to scrap the previous design for Armada Way, clean up the felled trees and work with residents, businesses and stakeholders on what they would like to see from a new scheme. We have delivered on these promises.

“Today is another milestone on our journey to create a better city centre, one that rivals others across the country, where people want to live, work, visit, shop and do business in.

“We have listened and the design agreed today includes more trees than ever, different tree species, changes to footpaths and cycling routes, extra cycle parking and more accessible green space.

“The design also includes the innovative water drainage system, powered by new solar canopies and the exciting new play village.”

The confirmed design means that further work can be carried out on establishing the final cost of delivering the scheme.

Once a final construction cost is known, a further report will be considered by the Cabinet.

Exploratory trial pits are currently being dug on Armada Way to get a more accurate picture of what is beneath the surface. When these are finished it will help provide clarity on the scope of the works needed.

Councillor Evans added: “After the consultation and after we updated the design, we were able to start looking in detail at the scheme costs.

“The figure that has been talked about so far is the outer limits of what we may have to pay. We are now doing more investigative work to eliminate unknown risk and we are having detailed cost review sessions with our contractors.

“We are looking at every aspect of the scheme, how long it will take, and how much it will cost to borrow the money, before a final budget will be agreed. None of these discussions could take place until we had a confirmed design.

money going into this project. We will keep get the costs down.”

Amendments to the design following the public consultation included:

“Over the next few weeks we will finish our exploratory work and work with the contractors to get accurate costings. Cabinet will then consider these at a later date.

“We have to be realistic that creating a city centre that we all can be proud of cannot be done on the cheap.

“We are trying to create something really special that will be a focal point for our city but at the same time, we are incredibly conscious that there will be some public

• Retention of two extra existing trees This means only four trees will be translocated from Armada Way to The Park.

• Some tree species selection has been modified. This includes changing the proposed single ‘Tree of Heaven’ to a London Plane tree.

• The final design includes an increased amount of accessible green space which is beyond that of the design of the scheme which was consulted on.

‚• Removal of two east-west pedestrian

footpaths to reduce conflict of two separate paths crossing the cycle way at the point of chicane. This will make the space safer for both pedestrians and cyclists.

• Changing the colour of the granite denoting the cycle way to a dark pink hue to provide a strong visual differentiation to the other pedestrian areas.

• The new scheme will include a considerable amount of extra cycle parking in the form of stands and cycle hoops onto lamp columns.

• Further changes will be made to the pedestrian and cycle wayfinding to enable the cycle way and its use to be very clearly demarcated. This will make the space safer for pedestrians and cyclists.

• The final scheme includes for the addition of a minimum of one drinking water station on Armada Way which will help reduce the use of single plastics and align with Plymouth’s Plan for Plastics.

• An increased amount of seating has been added to the play village area to ensure that there is enough seating for parents and carers whose children want to use the facilities.

• Defibrillator(s) will be installed on Armada Way. There are currently a number of defibrillators across the wider city centre area, but none on Armada Way directly.

Police appeal for witnesses after Crownhill crash

Police investigating a serious road traffic collision in Plymouth on February 20 are appealing for any witnesses to come forward.

Officers were called to reports of a collision involving a white KTM RC390 motorcycle and a silver Volkswagen Passat estate on Crownhill Road, Plymouth, at the junction with Coombe Park Lane, at around 7.35pm.

As a result of the collision, two men in their 20s, who were the rider and pillion passenger on the motorbike, suffered serious injuries.

The road was closed, and police would like to thank the public for their patience while they investigated the scene.

The road closure was handed over to highways at around 9.45pm.

A man in his 40s from Plymouth was arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by careless driving, driving without insurance, and driving while disqualified.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information or dashcam footage that could help with enquiries, should contact the police via www.devon-cornwall. police.uk or by calling 101 quoting log 717 of February 20.

Post Office reopens in Roborough

Hessary Drive Post Office in Roborough has re-opened under new management to restore service to the community.

It is at the same location as before at 20, Hessary Drive, Roborough. The new opening hours are Monday to Saturday 7am to 9pm; Sunday: 8am – 9pm.

This will provide 97 hours of Post Office service a week for the convenience of customers. The same range of Post Office products and services are available.

Matt Walls, Post Office Network Provision Lead, said: “We are delighted to have restored Post Office services to Roborough as we know how important a Post Office is to a community. I know that the local community will join me in welcoming this good news and hope that our customers will continue to use this service.”

Moor’s Edge u3a has plenty to offer

Anyone who is retired or semiretired and wonders what to do with themselves might like to join the Moor’s Edge u3a.

The group meets in the Woolwell Centre on the second Friday of each month at 2.30pm, apart from August, for a summer break. Visitors can attend twice before needing to decide if they want to join. Once people become a member there are over 20 different interest groups to consider.

These include garden visits, country dancing, book club, arty crafty, strollers, short walks, darts and many more.There are guests speakers at the monthly meetings who bring an insight into a range of fascinating subjects.

For more information visit u3asites.org. uk/moorsedge

Local mums set to pound the streets of London for charity

Keen runners and close friends Claire

Beney from Plymstock and Karen Trim from Tamerton Foliot are putting their best feet first and will both be running the London Marathon together in April to raise money for charities very close to their heart.

Claire who is 42, has always loved running but has recently found it more of an uphill struggle to keep herself motivated, because of some health challenges.

But she is determined that she will be running the marathon and supporting the Roy Castle Lung Cancer charity, after her father sadly passed away from the disease six years ago.

Claire said: “The charity helped my dad and our family, after the terminal diagnosis was made. They provided all the resources and information needed to help us make a decision about treatment. I want to run on their behalf to raise awareness of the fact that this illness can happen to anyone regardless of whether they are a smoker or non smoker (like my Dad) and how important having a regular lung check is.”

Claire has taken part in the London Marathon once before in 2018. Sadly, her father passed away while she was training for the event.

Claire is running with one of her closest friends Karen Trim, who is 51. Karen will be taking part in her first London marathon having taken up running over the past few years.

Karen, who is running for the NSPCC, helping to raise funds for services which protect and keep children safe, said: “26.2 miles will be a tough challenge but I am looking forward to being in London and soaking up the atmosphere and making a difference for the NSPCC. Claire and I met

over 20 years ago working for Social Services so I know first hand the important work the NSPCC do.”

To help in their fundraising efforts, the duo have arranged a glamorous black tie fundraising event at Boringdon Golf Club on Saturday March 16.

Plymouth’s own singer/songwriter, fresh from his appearance on The Voice, Shane Brierley, will be taking centre stage during the evening to entertain and get the party started. Also on the night, one of Claire’s work colleagues will be part of the entertainment line up in Cornwall’s based band, The Claze.

Claire added: “We really do hope people can support us in donating something or attending

our gala event. We’ve had a great response to our fundraising efforts so far, but are hoping to raise a combined total of £4700 to donate to two organisations who really can make a difference.”

Tickets for the night cost £45 and include a three-course meal and the chance to win lots of raffle prizes such as family ticket to see Plymouth Argyle at home, beauty treatments, family days out and gym memberships. For further details visit www. wellbeingplymouth.co.uk/gala

To support Claire’s fundraising visit https://2024tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/ claire-beney or Karen’s page at www.justgiving. com/page/bird

PRESTIGIOUS AWARD FOR CITY COLLEGE

A delegation representing City College Plymouth has attended Buckingham Palace to pick up a prestigious award.

The college is one of only a handful of educational establishments to be awarded the Queen’s Anniversary Prize for Further and Higher Education each year. The accolade –considered the highest national honour in the sector – is testament to the college’s outstanding contributions to the training and advancement of the nation’s maritime skills.

The college’s chief executive, Jackie Grubb, chair of governors, Richard Stevens, along with student support staff, lecturers and key employers travelled to London to be presented with the Queen’s Anniversary prize medal and certificate. Queen Camilla made the presentation.

The Queen’s Anniversary Prizes are part of the UK’s national Honours system, recognising outstanding work by UK colleges and universities which demonstrate excellence, innovation and deliver real benefits to the wider world. In recent years, City College Plymouth has demonstrated a strong commitment by making significant investments in facilities and enhancing training opportunities for maritime skills, benefiting international employers based in the city.

The selection committee, when awarding the Queen’s Anniversary Prize, specifically commended the positive impact of its Centre of Higher Technical Innovation and Maritime Skills in advancing fundamental marine skills within the sector.

Serving Plymouth’s marine enterprise zone, the Centre trains students on the latest marine technologies, including those used for sheet cutting, mould-making, 3D printing and surface carving. An innovative wave flume also facilitates

education in autonomous vehicles and marine technology.

The award also praised the college’s close collaborations with marine sector employers to ensure students receive the relevant skills, from design to prototyping, demanded of this rapidly evolving field.

First awarded in 1994, the Queen’s Anniversary Prizes are granted every two years by the Sovereign on the advice of the Prime Minister following a rigorous and independent process of review carried out by The Royal Anniversary Trust, an independent charity.

Jackie Grubb, City College Plymouth’s chief executive said: “I am immensely proud and delighted that the college’s expertise and commitment to developing skills has been

recognised as an example of excellence, and honoured with the Queen’s Anniversary Prize.

“The college’s strategic intent has underpinned our close relationship with employers locally, regionally and nationally and this award is a real testament to the ongoing hard work of our dedicated staff and our employer partners who provide so much opportunity in our great naval city.

“Plymouth Marine Laboratories, Babcock International, Princess Yachts, and MSubs play a pivotal role in enriching our maritime skills curriculum, offering students and apprentices unique training opportunities. The Queen’s Anniversary Prize recognises this collaborative effort and is, therefore, an accolade the College shares with Britain’s Ocean City.”

Marathon runners Claire Beney (centre) with friend Karen Trim and daughter Millie

City College chief executive Jackie Grubb, executive of Technical Innovation Lance Chatfield and chair of governors Richard Stevens pictured at Buckingham Palace with the Queen’s Anniversary Prize medal for Further and Higher Education

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Performance report shows progress in council’s priorities being delivered

Strong progress is being made in delivering the City Council’s priorities for Building a Better Plymouth despite significant challenges caused by national factors, a new performance monitoring report shows.

The report to Cabinet highlights evidence that employment rates are improving, anti-social behaviour incidents reducing, the number of young people in education, employment or training increasing and the numbers of households prevented from becoming homeless increasing.

The report also highlights a wide range of initiatives during the last quarter that have helped deliver the administration’s priorities of tackling crime and anti-social behaviour, filling in potholes, creating cleaner streets, building new homes, green investment and better access to healthcare.

They include:

• A new multi-agency working group focusing on predatory and high-risk males within the evening and night-time economy as part of the work to tackle violence against women and girls

• A trial of Velocity patching technology which has seen around 10,000 road repairs that didn’t require excavations to the road surface, speeding up the repair process

• Investment in a new fleet of mechanical street sweepers, including one dedicated to more sweeps of pavements on key routes and another to clean rear lanes, using special steel brushes to tackle weeds

• Work with partners on schemes to deliver new and refurbished homes at Millbay, Plympton, Efford and Barne Barton

• The development of a Green Skills Action plan and the mapping of green skills and training needs in the city

• Success in securing funding to support net zero investment to deliver renewable energy schemes

• The dental task force working together on initiatives to tackle the crisis in dental provision, including the securing of dental appointments for a number of schools.

The report also highlights ongoing challenges, including the numbers quitting smoking not dropping quickly enough, not enough Key stage 4 pupils achieving in English and Maths and an increase in the number of people on dental waiting lists.

Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet member for Housing, Cooperative Development and Communities, said: “This latest performance report is encouraging as it shows real, tangible progress on a whole range of critical issues for Plymouth – and things that we know make a difference in the lives of many residents.

“It is particularly encouraging to see the number of incidents of antisocial behaviour is down in the last quarter and more people being successfully supported to avoid becoming homeless.

“It is also encouraging to see employment rates increasing as a result of the huge amount of ongoing work to attract and secure employment opportunities and investment in the city and to ensure there opportunities for residents to develop the skills required for the current job market.

“Many of the challenges we continue to face in Plymouth – such as rising homelessness and lack of access to dental care – are down the national issues and the ongoing cost of living crisis – but we are determined to ensure that tackling them alongside our partners remains a high priority.”

Achievements of construction and manufacturing apprentices celebrated at awards ceremony

Outstanding local construction and manufacturing apprentices have been recognised for their skills and high standards demonstrated in their efforts and achievements at an awards ceremony held as part of Plymouth’s National Apprenticeship Week 2024.

The Apprentice of the Year Awards were presented jointly by Building Plymouth and the Plymouth Manufacturers’ Group (PMG), with nominations submitted by local construction and manufacturing employers and training providers, with the awards recognising 45 talented finalist and winning apprentices who were celebrated at the ceremony held at Market Hall, Devonport.

Introducing the awards ceremony, Councillor Sally Cresswell, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Apprenticeships at Plymouth City Council said: “It is fitting to be holding this celebration in National Apprenticeship Week 2024 with the theme ‘Skills for Life,’ a good chance to reflect on how the opportunity to ‘earn while you learn’ can help both young people to start their career journey and adults to change career direction.

“These apprentice awards truly represent the very best of achievement in two of Plymouth’s high growth sectors: construction and the built environment, and manufacturing and engineering. This important week and our Awards today, presents us with a great platform to shine a light on the amazing opportunities that an apprenticeship brings to employers, individuals and the economy.

“I thank all our local employers and training providers who continue to invest and support our apprentices. I am delighted to be able to share a personal congratulations to everyone celebrated.”

During the celebration, Daniel Alford was presented the highly respected Ron Simmonds Construction Trade Apprentice of the Year 2024 Award.

Being recognised through his successful Level 3 Installation and Maintenance Electrician apprenticeship with ME Contracting Ltd and The Focus Training Group, Daniel said: “From first meeting my employer ME Contracting at the Building Plymouth Early Careers Fair in 2022 to today, I’ve really enjoyed my apprenticeship hands-on experience and training provided by Focus Training. Thank you for the recognition and I hope winning this award provides a springboard for my career.”

Next up, Elijah Bennett was awarded the prestigious Building Plymouth Technical Apprentice of the Year 2024 Award. Employed by the innovative service Shared Apprenticeships and hosted by Kier Construction with Exeter College, undertaking a Level 4 Construction Site Supervisor apprenticeship, on winning the award Elijah said: “Thank you for the award, it is an honour to be recognised. Thank you to both Kier Construction and Shared Apprentices for support during my apprenticeship journey. I look forward to the future and developing within my career.”

Presenting the construction apprentice awards, Nikki Griffiths, Partner at WWA and Vice-Chair of Building Plymouth said: “I was delighted and honoured to be able to present the awards to the outstanding Apprentices we have in the local Construction and Built Environment industry. It is great to see such a diverse range of skills being recognised and the pride everyone showed in winning their awards. It certainly felt that the industry is in a good place and is attracting such talented people to build their careers in a fantastic diverse range of roles. Building Plymouth has championed the various pathways to the work environment through many different routes and

For 2024, the PMG Apprentice of the Year Awards were sponsored by Make UK, of which Jim Davison, Make UK’s regional director for the South of England was on the judging panel and presented the awards to the winners and finalists. Jim commented,

“Through the nominations process, we heard about the dedication that these apprentices have towards their apprenticeships, their companies and their colleagues, which is hugely reassuring for the growth and development of the manufacturing industry. While we especially congratulate the winners, we must applaud all the finalists for their hard work and passion for our sector which is why, once again, I am delighted to support the PMG Apprentice of the Year Awards and celebrate our industry’s future talent in this way.”

The first award was presented to Kane Garside, a Procurement and Supply Chain Apprentice at Babcock who won the PMG Business Rising Star Apprentice of the Year Award.

Kane said “I am incredibly honoured and grateful to have won the Business Best Rising Star Apprentice Award. This recognition means a lot to me and I am truly grateful for the opportunities and support, given by the Supply Chain Function at Babcock, that have led me to this point.

“Thank you for believing in me and helping me grow as a Supply Chain professional. I am excited for what the future holds and I am grateful to be recognized as a rising star in the business world!”

For 2024, it was impossible to differentiate between the strongest of the nominations for the PMG Manufacturing Final Year Apprentice of the Year Award and two joint winners were declared. They were Abbie Tucker of BD and Emily Taylor of Babcock.

Abbie Tucker completed her Engineering Technician Level 3 - Mechatronics Standard with Cornwall College in October 2023. Abbie has also

been recognised by BD globally for creating an injection mould manual which is now being utilised worldwide.

Abbie said:“Thank you to my employer BD for the recognition for this award. Proud to have won apprentice of the year and excited for the next chapter in my career within engineering.”

Joint Winner Emily Taylor is currently in the Final Year of her Level 4 Engineering Manufacturing Technician Apprenticeship with City College Plymouth.

Emily said: “I am extremely proud to have jointly won the Plymouth Manufacturing Group (PMG) Best Final Year Manufacturing Apprentice. I am grateful for the opportunities I have taken through Babcock and thank the Early Careers team and my department for giving me an amazing start to my engineering career. I am excited to continue encouraging future generations of engineers whilst maintaining my own professional development. Plymouth is fortunate to have PMG as a fantastic network and continued growth in the sector is assured with their support in apprenticeship programmes.  I am privileged to have been a part of this inspiring community in Plymouth.”

Karen Friendship, managing director at Aldermans and chair of the Plymouth Manufacturers’ Group said of the winners and finalists: “As I employ apprentices and I know the huge pride we feel when we see them grow, not just in their abilities but also in their confidence in our companies.

“Plymouth is one of the UK’s Top Ten Cities with the largest concentration of manufacturing employment. And our sector contributes a higher than average percentage to Plymouth’s economy – which means our apprentices, are also critical to the economic growth and future success of our city and local area. These awards are a significant way to show them that we recognise their endeavours, their importance in our businesses and that we are, in turn, committed to them.”

this is testament to its success in promoting construction as a career of choice.”

Award winners pictured with the Lord Mayor and other dignitaries and guests at the ceremony

MP welcomes news that superfast broadband now available to nearly over 93% of homes

Johnny Mercer MP has welcomed the news that 93.4 percent of premises in his Plymouth Moor View constituency now have access to superfast broadband thanks to the Government sticking to its plan to deliver ‘Project Gigabit’.

Over a million properties across the UK, including homes, businesses and public buildings, now have a seamless internet connection following Conservative Government investment, delivering on their plan to create a brighter future for everyone across the country.

The Government announced Project Gigabit in 2019 – a flagship £5 billion programme to enable hard-to-reach communities access to lightning-fast gigabit-capable broadband. By sticking to this plan, gigabit coverage across the UK has increased rapidly in recent years –from one in ten households in 2019 to eight in 10 today.

The Government is working with broadband suppliers to achieve at least 85 per cent gigabit coverage of the UK by 2025, and nationwide coverage by 2030.

Johnny Mercer MP said: “Families and businesses across Plymouth Moor View rely heavily on the internet for work and leisure, so it is brilliant to see the Government delivering on ‘Project Gigabit’.

“With 93.4 percent of premises across Plymouth Moor View now having a superfast broadband connection, it’s clear the Government’s plan to level up broadband is working. This is making work and leisure faster for people and, crucially, helping to grow our local economy.”

JOOLS HOLLAND DATE IN PLYMOUTH IS ANNOUNCED

Musical maestro Jools Holland and his famous Rhythm & Blues Orchestra have announced the run of dates for their 2024 Autumn/Winter tour, with special guests Marc Almond and Toby Lee.

From his years in the internationally acclaimed duo Soft Cell to the successful solo career that followed, Marc Almond has sold over 30 million records worldwide with his list of hit songs including Say Hello, Wave Goodbye‚ Something’s Gotten Hold Of My Heart and, of course, Tainted Love. Marc has been awarded the Ivor Novello Inspiration Award and the Icon Award by Attitude Magazine.

Audiences will also be treated to the supreme talent of blues guitar prodigy and social media sensation, Toby Lee. The show will also feature Ruby Turner and the vocals of Louise Marshall and Summed Jayatilaka.

The popular event makes its annual return to Plymouth Pavilions on December 13. Tickets are on sale via www. ticketmaster.co.uk and www.seetickets. com.

City College apprentices celebrate their successes at first ever awards ceremony

City College Plymouth has demonstrated its commitment to honouring the hard work and achievements of its apprentices by hosting the very first College Apprenticeship Awards Ceremony.

The event, which took place at Plymouth Argyle Football Club, showcased the talents and accomplishments of the college’s apprentices over the last academic year. The ceremony was marked by a blend of excitement and pride as apprentices, their families, college staff, employers and guests from the local business community gathered to celebrate the momentous occasion.

Award winners, their families, college staff and employer guests were treated to a performance from Imogen Early, a college music student, as well as an engaging address from special guest speaker, Ben Towers.

A celebrated and award-winning entrepreneur, Ben has left an undeniable mark on the business world through his groundbreaking ventures and dedication to fostering employee well-being. He highlighted the importance of entrepreneurship and the commitment that City College has to fostering this initiative for its students.

By working hand-in-hand with a diverse range of employers, the college ensures their apprentices receive the best possible training and experience, preparing them for successful careers.

Celebrating success at the awards ceremony

Awards were presented across departments, industries and disciplines to recognise the amazing work our apprentices have accomplished in the past year, with final awards presented to Siobhan England by the college’s Students’ Union and Emily Taylor by the Board of Governors in recognition for their positive contributions to college life.

The final award of the evening went to Piotr Pelka who received the Chief Executive’s Award.

Piotr embarked on his Apprenticeship journey in 2021, overcoming unprecedented challenges during the global pandemic. Not only did he achieve level 2 qualifications in English and maths, but he also earned a full distinction for his end-point assessment last July.

City College’s chief executive, Jackie Grubb, expressed her pride in the apprentices’ achievements, adding: “This evening is a testament to the exceptional talent and perseverance of our apprentices. Their inspiring journeys of personal and professional growth truly embody the spirit of our college.

“I am confident that the skills and experiences they have gained here will propel them towards successful and fulfilling careers. I couldn’t be prouder of them and I can’t wait to see what they do next.”

Award Winners

Reflecting the diverse fabric of Plymouth’s community, the award recipients represented a wide range of ages and backgrounds.

Logan Holdsworth, Advanced Automotive Apprentice of the Year

Ysabella Payn, Intermediate Construction Apprentice of the Year

Daniel Butler, Advanced Construction Apprentice of the Year

Joel Smith, Higher Construction Apprentice of the Year

Cassidy Blake, Higher Digital Apprentice of the Year

Toby Humphries, Intermediate Engineering Apprentice of the Year

Leo Marshall, Advanced Engineering Apprentice of the Year

Sophie Hitchcock, Intermediate Hair & Beauty Apprentice of the Year

Nathan Graham, Intermediate Health Apprentice of the Year

Ruby Salmon, Intermediate Hospitality Apprentice of the Year

Caitlin Whitford-Robson, Intermediate Science Apprentice of the Year.

City College Plymouth chief executive Jackie Grubb pictured with the apprentice award winners

City College chief executive Jackie Grubb pictured with guest speaker Ben Tower

Experience

In the Autumn of 2023 my three year old daughter found an acorn which looked to be sprouting. I said we’d plant it to see what would happen.

We duly took it home, found a small pot and some compost and set it on the window sill in our kitchen.

Day after day for many weeks it appeared as though nothing was going on. It didn’t look to be growing but I decided to give it a little bit of water every so often just in case there was still life in it.

Sadly as time passed I resigned myself to the fact that it wasn’t going to grow at all.

Though I couldn’t quite give up on it. Not just yet.

Some more days passed and I took a closer look at the acorn. There weren’t any shoots visible but it did seem to be changing. It appeared to be opening up more and the centre of it had turned green.

At this point I was tempted to dig it up and see what was going on under the surface.

Were there roots forming which I couldn’t see? I knew disturbing it at this point wasn’t an option and would only harm its potential growth. I just had to wait, keep watering it and stay patient.

You’ve probably guessed what happened next. The green colour change was indeed a

GOOD THINGS START SMALL

By Dave Simpson, Station Manager Cross Rhythms

sign of life and eventually a small shoot did come up out of it.

From then on there’s been no stopping it!

A recent post I saw on social media drew parallels to the process of our little acorn. It was a photograph of a man sat at a desk alone in a very small office space. On the wall was written ‘amazon.com’ in rough spray painted letters.

The man in the photo was Jeff Bezos, now one of the wealthiest people in the world and the image showed him in the uninspiring early days of Amazon. One of the largest corporations on the planet now but back then barely a noticeable start up company.

anything is growing and for that impatience to lead to discouragement and the temptation to give up.

I imagine Jeff Bezos and his team in the early days of Amazon had several points when, despite their best efforts, it didn’t look like their business was growing. I’m sure that’s been the case for most entrepreneurs and probably all of us in one way or another.

Perhaps you’ve started writing a book and you’ve got writer’s block in the first chapter. Maybe you’re learning a musical instrument and right now you just can’t get the hang of it.

There’s a quote in the Bible which says “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin”.

Almost everything we do in life which is valuable starts small. It’s very easy to become impatient when it doesn’t look like

We like to see big changes happen now or at the very least today or this week. However it is far easier to track significant growth over a number of years than it is days. Growth is funny like that. You’ll see it more with the turning of the years but it is actually taking place daily. The acorn I planted was

Plymouth

growing, little by little everyday.

The regular actions I was taking to ensure it had enough water and all that was happening under the surface with the roots developing and the seed opening up set the foundation for the shoots to rise above the surface. Giving our little acorn the best chance to one day to become an oak tree.

Quite how we’re going to manage the later stages of its growth I’m not too sure, but that’s beside the point!

I want to take this opportunity to encourage you to keep doing what you’re doing. Keep taking those little incremental steps in whatever endeavour you have before you. Right now it may look like nothing but in time you will see the growth and development which simply will not happen if you stop now.

In the years to come our little plant will look mighty. For days on end it looked like it was dead.

Take from that what you will.

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

From the factory floor to the hospital ward – how one Plymouth man has turned his life around...

Simon Raymont, who is 48, admits he didn’t do well at school. He was in and out of hospital with asthma and his studies took a hit.

Now the father of one from the west of Plymouth is studying an assistant practitioner foundation degree apprenticeship at University Centre South Devon (UCSD), part of South Devon College, and is enjoying the challenge.

“I left school, spent a few years working in factories before becoming a care assistant for a private ambulance company. However it was a zero-hours contract and as the hours got less I knew I had to find something else.”

Simon, whose mum was a nurse for 50 years, then decided to apply to Derriford Hospital to be a healthcare assistant. He’s worked on the Planned Investigation Unit now for 17 years and after doing various qualifications he decided to do an

apprenticeship to help boost his career.

UCSD has seen a large increase in the number of people who have signed up for the assistant practitioner foundation degree apprenticeship.

“We’ve seen a 403% increase in the last year,” said Lucy Parkin, head of curriculum for health and care at UCSD. “This is due to the role being more in demand and the fact that it opens up a lot of career opportunities with pathways including occupational therapy, physiotherapy, theatres, ICU, A&E, care of the elderly, speech and language, podiatry and many more.

“It’s a direct route to work in the NHS or other health or care organisations and is essential to the future development of the sector.”

Simon admits that working and studying can be hard at times.  “It can be a challenge and sometimes you think how am I going to get this done but you do. It is harder as you get older as

learning styles are different.”

But Simon’s advice to anyone considering doing an apprenticeship is to not doubt yourself.

“You have the knowledge and everyone at UCSD is very supportive.”

Simon’s apprenticeship is just one of many available at UCSD and South Devon College. Apprenticeships and degree apprenticeships are available across many sectors, including the more well-known such as bricklayer and beauty therapist, but there are more surprising ones available too like nursing associate, sea fisher, paralegal or chartered manager.

Simon admits he loves a challenge and hasn’t ruled out taking more qualifications in the future.

Simon Raymont who is studying an assistant practitioner foundation degree at University Centre South Devon, part of South Devon College

Dave Simpson

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Councillor Tina Tuohy named as Lord Mayor Designate

The Lord Mayor Selection Committee has recommended the new Lord Mayor Designate for 2024/2025 as Councillor Tina Tuohy.

The recommendation will be put forward at the next Full Council meeting on March 18 before it is fully agreed.

Tina was born in Berlin but grew up in Devon with her father’s family. Tina started her career as an art student studying Fine Art and Textile Production in London.

Tina moved to Plymouth in 1970 after getting married and raising a family, and in 1987, she went back to education as a mature student via what was then the University of Exeter’s ‘Department of Extra Mural Studies’ and went on to graduate in Single Honours Archaeology.

In 1990, Tina went on to do a course in Wetland Archaeology at Leiden University in the Netherlands before continuing as a postgraduate at Exeter where, in 1996, she received her PhD on the study of Iron Age Weaving combs.

Tina was a lecturer in Archaeology at the University of Exeter for 16 years and Bristol University for four years.

Councillor Tuohy used to be a governor at the old North Prospect Primary School before it became the Mayflower Academy. She has also worked to introduce archaeology to primary school children and local community groups.

Tina currently serves as a Ham Ward Councillor and was first elected to the Ward in 2009. She is also Vice-Chair of the Planning Committee.

Tina has campaigned to support the community of North Prospect throughout her work as a councillor, such as supporting community events.

Tina lived in North Prospect for over 40 years and has seen the area expand and change throughout the regeneration.

Councillor Tuohy said: “It is a huge honour to be asked to be the Lord Mayor Designate.

“I have always been so passionate about Plymouth and the people that live here, I’ll never forget the moment when I stepped off the train in 1970 and walked out and saw the city, that’s when I knew that it was home.

“Plymouth is such a lovely place to live, work and visit. I have lived here for over 50 years and seen this city grow and change, I look forward to the year of office.”

Current Lord Mayor, Councillor Mark Shayer, said: “I am delighted that councillors have agreed to support Tina as Lord Mayor Designate for 2024/2025.

“I wish her a rewarding and enjoyable year in office. She has so many incredible stories to tell and will make a fantastic Lord Mayor.

“Personally, it has been an absolute privilege and pleasure to be Lord Mayor for this city, I have enjoyed every minute of it.”

Current Lord Mayor, Councillor Mark Shayer congratulates Coun Tuohy on her nomination

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LABOUR MAKING ITS MARK IN CROWNHILL

Labour’s parliamentary candidate for the Moor View seat has kicked off 2024 with a bang by opening an office in the heart of the constituency.

Fred Thomas, a former Royal Marines captain, opened up the campaign office in Crownhill Village in January as his campaign to win the seat from Johnny Mercer MP steps up a gear.

Fred, who lives in the Beacon Park area of Plymouth, said: “My brilliant team of volunteers and I are out campaigning all the time across Plymouth Moor View so it made sense to have a central place to coordinate our increasing campaigning activity.

“I’m delighted we have opened the doors in January - a bricks and mortar centre shows the people who live in the constituency how serious I am about delivering a fresh start for our community.”

The whole premises on the corner of Crownhill Village and Crownhill Road has been ‘wrapped’ in Labour logos and campaign information and makes for an arresting sight on a prominent corner plot

in the busy shopping area.

“We will be using the office as a central location to have members and volunteers come in and get organised. It is not open to the public for walk-ins but anyone can get in touch with me on my email address which is team@fredthomas.win,” explained Fred.

Jane Jones, the chair of Plymouth Moor View Constituency Labour Party, said she was ‘thrilled’ to see the office open in support of Fred’s campaign.

“Having a visible presence in such a high profile spot is a real indicator of our determination to change our city for the better,” said Jane. “There are so many ways to get involved, from stuffing envelopes to putting up a garden stake.

“Anyone who wants to join the growing number of people supporting Fred’s campaign can get in touch with us by emailing team@ fredthomas.win.”

Labour parliamentary candidate for Plymouth Moor View Fred Thomas in front of his new office in Crownhill Village with Plymouth Labour councillors and volunteers

MILLIONS TO BE INVESTED IN PLYMOUTH’S YOUNG PEOPLE

Young people in Plymouth look set to benefit from a massive investment designed to encourage them to learn, gain skills, enjoy incredible opportunities – and have fun.

It comes after Plymouth City Council was successful in its bid for a share of the £560 million Youth Investment Fund, a government initiative to provide every young person in England with access to regular out of school activities, adventures away from home and opportunities to volunteer.

It means that from coast to countryside parks, from the waterfront to the neighbourhoods of Efford, Honicknowle and Stonehouse, more will be on offer for young people to do, with regular out of school activities, adventures away from home and opportunities to volunteer all opening up.

The big-ticket item for Plymouth will be £2.4 million for the expansion, refurbishment and overall improvement of Fredrick Street Centre in Stonehouse, Efford Youth and Community Centre and Honicknowle Youth and Community Centre.

In Stonehouse, one-on-one youth justice and targeted support work with young people will be expanded. There will be dedicated resources for young people who have experienced care, including support, resources, IT facilities, life skills, and fitness equipment along with a new education suite.

Efford Youth and Community Centre will get a brand new Multi Use Games Area to increase sporting activities, while supervised access to basketball and boxing will be expanded. At Honicknowle Youth and Community Centre, current successful SEND provision and groups will be improved alongside a new digital engagement project aimed creating a fun, informal learning environment for young people.

Both buildings will also undergo complete refurbishment, increasing their size and ensuring that they are fit to serve generations of young people in the city in the future.

Projects at Derriford Community Park, in and around Forder Valley, and at Tinside on the waterfront will also be getting a financial boost through the fund.

Through this fund and additional money, Derriford Community Park is set for further expansion, thanks to a huge £1.6 million investment. The park, with Poole Farm at its heart, will eventually cover a massive 146 hectares containing a large area of previously inaccessible farm land.

This investment will lead to yet more access for residents with the final elements of the multi-use access network opening up 40 hectares of countryside to visitors.

The derelict Old Hayloft at Poole Farm will be renovated to provide a room for educational groups as well as welfare facilities for site users. A new cabin building will also be built, providing a year-round space for eco-therapy, training and teaching whilst connected to the outdoor environment.

Over on the Foreshore £1.8 million is being set aside for the refurbishment of two of Tinside’s listed buildings, to open them to a new generation of users.

Together, the improvements will enable youth workers to work with young people to build confidence, develop skills, undertake marinerelated training and learn about blue sector career opportunities in Plymouth.

National Marine Park wins Heritage Fund boost

An £11.6m funding boost from the National Lottery Heritage Fund has been awarded to Plymouth to help deliver the UK’s first National Marine Park – a £22m transformation programme that will help empower and engage the city in the marine environment.

Unlike other National Parks, Plymouth’s landscape is mostly under the sea, hidden from view, yet brimming with wildlife of international importance, outstanding maritime heritage, and over 600 shipwrecks.

The project will create the country’s first National Marine Park, revolutionising the way Plymouth interacts with its heritage, promoting a more harmonious relationship with the ocean and creating hundreds of jobs. The National Marine Park will encourage people to become ‘Marine Citizens’, developing closer connections with the ocean, learning to care about the coastal environment and change the way everyone behaves in order to protect it.

The project is the beginning of a movement – a first-of-its-kind opportunity for the development of National Marine Parks across the UK and it is being led by Plymouth.

Thanks to the funding from the Heritage Fund and their Heritage Horizon Award programme, Plymouth’s National Marine Park is one step closer to coming a reality. This innovative project puts the restoration of nature and the city’s marine heritage at the heart of the project, engaging with all those living, working and studying in Plymouth. Through an exciting and diverse activity plan, Plymouth Sound National Marine Park aims to engage the entire city in its three-step journey to:

• Engage and inspire;

• Provide opportunities for learning and discovery;

• Enable connection and positive action to support the long-term care of Plymouth Sound National Marine Park.

Councillor Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “As Britain’s Ocean City we have a unique opportunity to pioneer a new approach to protecting and restoring the amazing heritage of Plymouth Sound, transforming the lives of local residents.

“In developing the UK’s first National Marine

Park we will create a blueprint for an innovative new model of National Marine Parks across our island nation – and this feels both vital and exciting.

“We are proud to lead as the first city to enjoy this incredible opportunity to innovate, protect and develop our connections to the sea.”

A series of sensitive restoration projects across the citywide waterfront will enable greater accessibility to Plymouth Sound National Marine Park. These developments will open up new ‘gateways’ to the National Marine Park through previously inaccessible heritage sites, including the 17th century Mount Batten Tower and Garden Battery at Mount Edgcumbe, which has been closed to the public since World War 2.

Improvements to Mount Batten Peninsula will enhance dwell time and increase access to nature, whilst Tinside, Plymouth’s beloved Art-Deco Lido, will undergo transformational work to open up new spaces that can be enjoyed year-round.

In addition, a pioneering nature boost project will restore habitats and species including sea grass beds, mudflats and saltmarshes, oysters, mussels, little egrets, avocets thornback ray,

Elaine Hayes, Plymouth Sound National Marine Park chief executive, added: “This programme has been designed to maximise the number of people accessing the National Marine Park’s incredible built and natural heritage, encouraging everyone to discover the treasures of Plymouth Sound and to enable communities to care for the National Marine Park.”

Roger Maslin, chief executive of the Ocean Conservation Trust, said: ‘’We are hugely proud to be a delivery partner of Plymouth Sound National Marine Park. The impact the ocean has on the day-to-day lives of Plymouth’s residents has been visible for thousands of years.

“So, being the UK’s First National Marine Park is a pivotal next step in our city’s pioneering approach to the relationship between nature and people. “We sincerely hope that this will be the first of many National Marine Parks around the UK’s coastline and are now thrilled to be embarking on the next exciting chapter of this journey’’

For more details visit: www. plymouthsound nationalmarinepark.com

Range of exciting firsts lined up for the summer

The summer of 2024 is set to be one to remember for the Plymouth Sound National Marine Park.

Having just received an £11.6m funding boost from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the UK’s first National Marine Park is now set to embark on a transformation programme that will help empower and engage the city in the marine environment.

With exciting events and innovative improvements set to take place across 2024, the new Marine Park will ensure a legacy that cements Plymouth’s relationship with the sea for generations to come.

“This really is the start of something massive for our city,” said Council Leader Tudor Evans OBE, who on Monday presented the marine park business case to his colleagues at Cabinet.

“The Plymouth Sound National Marine Park will revolutionise how we look after, utilise, and celebrate the sea that is so much part of our history, our heritage, and now our future.

“We’ve got so much to look forward to over the next few months alone and I can’t wait to see some of the improvements take shape.”

Following a two-year development stage where the council spoke to over 10,000 people on what they wanted to see from the Park, several restoration projects that will improve access to

nature and heritage and an inclusive activity plan, will commence in 2024.

Infrastructure improvements getting under way include:

Work to enhance the city’s iconic art-deco Tinside Lido

Scaffolding will go up before the start of the bathing season to support maintenance works and the refurbishment of the first floor and terrace which will create a multi-purpose event space for people to enjoy with panoramic views of the National Marine Park.  The works will not interrupt enjoyment of the pool over the summer.

The Mount Batten Peninsula

Works to install a new pontoon, a warm and welcoming refurbishment to the centre café, accessible changing rooms, and improved access to the 17th Century Tower will all begin this year.

Mount Edgcumbe’s Garden Battery

New designs to open up the Palmerston coastal defence fort will be finalised during 2024 before works commence in early 2025.

Meanwhile there will also be lots of exciting activities that people can join in with over the course of the year, including:

Swim Safe

A programme designed to build skills and confidence in, on and under the water, offering beginner swimming lessons through to snorkelling

and diving, all located at Tinside Lido.

Rockpool Encounters

An expert led session introducing the incredible and unique habitat of marine life that lives beneath the waves of Plymouth Sound National Marine Park.

Community Coastal Cleans

An opportunity for communities to come together and spend time helping to clean and protect their natural environment and a great stepping stone try out our volunteering scheme.

Meet the Marine Park Team

The team will pop-up at new locations across the city offering opportunities to find out more about Plymouth Sound National Marine Park and how to get involved.

Sea in your School

An exciting KS2 programme where lots of primary school children will get to virtually experience Plymouth Sound National Marine Park, a unique and memorable way of bringing education to life.

For those who want to engage further, an exciting citywide volunteer recruitment drive will roll out from early spring.

This will offer people, with varying levels of commitment, opportunities to support Plymouth Sound National Marine Park either for a couple of hours, a day, or as an active regular.

seahorses, sand eels and the rare allis shad.

Plymouth Sound - set to become the UK’s first national Marine Park. Photo: Ocean Conservation Trust

New £14.5 million Plymouth Business School is unveiled

Plymouth University is creating a first-class new home for the Plymouth Business School at the heart of its city centre campus.

The transformed Fitzroy Building will include a number of specialist teaching facilities and social learning spaces for students on undergraduate and postgraduate programmes including those in Business, Accounting and Marketing.

These will include an upgraded Bloomberg Interactive Learning Suite, where students learn how to analyse financial markets, as well as a Maritime Suite and a Language Lab. It will also provide a new location for The Cube, the University’s acclaimed student and graduate enterprise support service, which in the past three years has supported over 4,400 student interactions and generated 230 businesses.

Through these facilities, students will acquire the skills they need to succeed in their chosen career at the same time as developing an understanding of their sustainability and social responsibilities.

The £14.5 million project is a key element of the University’s £250 million Campus Masterplan, a decade-long programme of modernisation designed to maintain a first-class learning, research and working environment for all students and staff.

Professor Judith Petts, vicechancellor of the university, said: “The transformation of the Fitzroy Building is further evidence of our long-held commitments to sustainability and net zero. Once again, we are taking an existing building and repurposing it to create a cuttingedge space that will enhance

teaching and experiences for both our students and staff. It is also the result of a long-held desire to bring our  business students into the heart of the campus, giving them a facility that will advance their aspirations and inspire their innovation.”

The Plymouth Business School aims to combine career success with a commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.

It has affiliations to professional bodies including the Business Graduates Association and the International Accreditation Council for Business Education, as well as collaborations with businesses, organisations, community groups, and public bodies.

The School has also recently been selected as a PRME

Champion, demonstrating its commitment to raising the bar for sustainable business education.

Professor Chris Bennewith, executive Dean of Arts, Humanities and Business at the University, added: “Courses like our Marketing programme are consistently ranked among the best in the country, and the Business School attracts significant numbers of international students.

“Our industry-led programmes equip graduates to be successful, and we know the quality of our teaching and support is already held in high regard.

“This new home for the School will create an exciting new space in which current and future students can foster the knowledge and enthusiasm that they will need to achieve their ambitions.”

The Fitzroy Building was originally constructed in the 1970s, and the plans for its transformation have recently approved by the local planning authority, Plymouth City Council. Constructed to the highest sustainability standards, the new facility will extend the University’s ambition for net zero, a commitment that in 2023 saw it become only the second university in the UK to achieve verified carbon neutral status.

The building is being refurbished in line with the latest thermal efficiency standards, with a focus on reducing heat loss and ensuring energy efficiency. Air source heat pumps will be used to provide heating and hot water for the building, while photovoltaic panels will be installed on its roof to generate electricity.

New campaign launched to promote career opportunities in Plymouth Children’s Services

Plymouth City Council has launched a new campaign promoting the range of careers available in Children’s Services, with new and exciting opportunities for staff.

The council has a comprehensive transformation and improvement programme in place in its Children’s Service with one of the key priorities to ensure there is a stable, well supported and high performing workforce.

The service is now seeking permanent staff to join with a variety of roles available, including experienced social workers, team managers, service managers and heads of service.

Councillor Jemima Laing, Cabinet Member

for Children’s Social Care, said: “Our aim is for all children and young people in Plymouth to have a bright future – and we want that for our staff too.

“Our Children’s Services team are ambitious and positive and we’re investing so that we can offer manageable workloads and excellent learning and development opportunities for our staff. Now is a really great time to join the team, with some really exciting job roles available for anyone looking to progress their career.

David Haley, director of Children’s Services, said: “We are looking for talented, experienced professionals to join our determined and enthusiastic team, to help

us make a difference to the lives of children, young people and their families.

“It’s an exciting time to join our service. We’re transforming the way we work and making improvements in children’s social care and our services for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.

“With a range of roles available, we’re excited to welcome new staff so that we can help them realise their ambitions as they help us to make a real difference to the lives of children, young people and their families in Plymouth.”

To find out more and see the jobs available visit: www.plymouth.gov.uk/ childrens-services-careers

An artist’s impression of the new Plymouth Business School

Plymouth sailors in big clean up operation in Antarctica

Plymouth-based Royal Navy sailors have helped preserve the natural beauty of Antarctica by removing three tonnes of waste from an island.

Ice breaker HMS Protector returned to Brabant Island – on the west coast of the Antarctic Peninsula – for the first time since 2017 to continue work to remove abandoned equipment from an expedition in the 1980s.

Ice had frozen some waste into position but subsequent thaw and freeze cycles meant it could now be removed seven years on.

Twenty-nine members of HMS Protector’s expedition headed ashore on the ship’s Zodiac boats, including operations officer, Lieutenant Commander Hannah Lee, who also took part in the 2017 effort.

Lt Commander Lee said: “It was rewarding for the ship’s company to be able to conduct a clean-up and preserve the natural beauty of Antarctica.

“I was part of the team that did the initial cleanup in 2016/17 and it was interesting to see how much the snow had melted and how much more equipment had been exposed.

“Unfortunately, we were not able to get everything off the Island due to permafrost and the severity of the landscape however, we have made it as safe as possible for the wildlife living there.”

Over 15 months from January 1984, a Joint Services Expedition to Brabant Island – the second largest island of the Palmer Archipelago within the British Antarctic Territory – undertook a scientific mission.

Brabant had only been visited on six very brief occasions since its discovery in 1898 and the expedition sought to explore the island in three phases, travelling by boat, canoe and overland –each phase was landed and recovered by former ice patrol vessel HMS Endurance.

Nearly 40 years on, Protector returned for her second clean-up effort as part of the ‘One Tonne Challenge’. First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Ben Key, asked personnel to spare time to rid beaches of one tonne of rubbish as part of an environmental drive. Protector smashed that challenge three times over in one sitting on Brabant Island – with the locals, Chinstrap penguins, watching on.

Last month’s answers

Refurbishment work is currently taking place on our new home at Stonehouse Creek. After 31 years at Bath St we are now moving to new premises and we will be able to support so many more people through expanding our services. We will be able to offer community space once open and look forward to welcoming you to our new building. Please check our social media pages and website for updates.

Marine Garrett said: “It was quite shocking seeing all the mess left behind at first. But once we got together to gather up all the rubbish, we could instantly see the benefits of our work, quite a bitter-sweet feeling.”

HMS Protector is the Royal Navy’s polar research ship and is currently deployed in the Antarctic region promoting British interests and enforcing the Antarctic Treaty by working with partners including the British Antarctic Survey (BAS), United Kingdom Antarctic Heritage Trust and the governments of the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands.

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The Derriford and North Chronicle is delivered door to door every month to homes in Ernesettle, West Park, Honicknowle, Crownhill, Manadon, Whitleigh, Southway, Derriford, Estover, Mainstone and Leigham.

The April edition of the Plymouth Chronicle in Derriford and North Plymouth will be published on March 29 with a copy deadline of March 18. The Derriford and North edi tion is one of four hyper local editions delivered to a total of more than 90,000 homes throughout the city.

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Crew members from HMS Protector pictured during the clean up on Brabant Island