The Plymouth Chronicle Waterside & West December 2020

Chronicle Plymouth

See inside for news and information from Plymouth City Council Pages 2 and 3

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Waterside & West

December 2020

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Amanda Lumley, chief executive of Destination Plymouth, is appointed to top tourism role See page 17

PLEDGE to SHOP LOCAL in lockdown - special four page supplement inside

Moor changes planned!

Moor please! This is how Plymouth’s new city centre play area is going to look - a piece of the moors, but with a slide. New images show the play area which will be created in front of the House of Fraser and Debenhams buildings for children and parents to play and relax. It will sit on one of the islands that will be appearing along Old Town Street as part of a major project to transform the upper end of the city centre.

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OUT WITH THE BAGS IN WITH THE BINS Garden waste collections are changing from bags to wheeled bins in 2021 Sign up before 7 January for a free bin and delivery at plymouth.gov.uk/gardenwaste

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2 December 2020

2 December 2020

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Lockdown is an opportunity to stop rise in COVID-19 cases

By Ruth Harrell Director of Public Health for Plymouth This lockdown gives us the chance to get the number of cases and the infection rate back down again and to help ease the pressure on the NHS. As difficult as this is, it is going to help save lives.

Councillor Tudor Evans Leader of Plymouth City Council Help each other out, be kind to each other and work together to do whatever it takes to reduce the infection rate.

This is not going to be easy, but we have proved that we can look after each other before and we will do it again. If we go in hard and fast and knuckle down to get the rate of infection – the R rate – down, we can hopefully come out of lockdown in time for Christmas.

The Council has been looking at the implications of the lockdown on residents and businesses and how it can help support and soften the blow.

This has been the toughest of years for those businesses who make Plymouth a great place to live – the bars, the pubs, the shops.

That’s why we will be going all-out to help them when they most need it.

We will be lobbying for more support, we will be proactive in getting grants out as swiftly as possible to them and we will be there for them.

We will also up the ante on our ‘Geddon’ campaign. While we won’t be able to get to the shops, cafes and bars, we will be doubling our efforts to make sure those at home shop online with Plymouth businesses. This is how we can all help each other.

Plymouth largely escaped the first wave.

This time we are not so fortunate. There is no COVID blocker at our boundaries, it is among us and increasing. Stay at home and help save lives.

The last few weeks have seen an increase in cases of COVID-19 in Plymouth and although there has been more testing, the number of positive cases, together with the spread in our city, has been worrying.

We are now, with the rest of England, into our second lockdown. The measures introduced under the tier system helped, but were not enough to keep R down as low as needed.

While our figures in Plymouth are below

the England average, the virus is having a considerable impact on the NHS locally and the lack of capacity across South West hospitals was specifically highlighted by the Prime Minister as an issue.

The messages on how we should all behave have not changed and it is more important than ever to make sure you are doing your bit.

Keep your distance, keep your face covering on and keep your hands clean.

I can’t say it often enough. COVID-19 is a killer and it affects all age groups. We also know that many who have caught it have endured months of slow recovery.

The more we get behind these restrictions and measures the sooner we’ll be able to open up again.

Lockdown isn’t forever but it is for now and that means you are helping keep your family and friends safe.

Dr Ruth Harrell, Director of Public Health

COVID-19 cases continue to rise rapidly The number of COVID-19 cases in Plymouth has continued to increase rapidly during November.

The first case of COVID-19 in the city was confirmed on 13 March and it took until 8 October (seven months) to reach 1,000. By the end of October that figure had risen to 2,000 and we have now exceeded 3,400.

During the week from 7 to 13 November there were 606 new cases confirmed, an increase on the previous week’s total of 473.

While more testing is taking place than at the start of the pandemic, the percentage of tests carried out that are positive has also risen sharply, reflecting the spread of COVID-19 in the Plymouth community.

The majority of the cases are in the working age population (18 to 64) and they are occurring in all parts of the city. This highlights the need for everyone to follow the guidance and protect themselves and others.

This will also save lives. More than 100 Plymouth residents have now died following a positive test for COVID-19.

Unless cases of COVID-19 fall in Plymouth during the lockdown the city will be at risk of being designated a ‘high risk’ area, meaning further ongoing restrictions.

You can check the latest figures for Plymouth by visiting the Council’s website at www.plymouth.gov.uk/covid-19 or by checking its Facebook and Twitter sites.

How Council services are operating during lockdown Plymouth City Council has pledged to keep as many local services as possible running during the lockdown period, while ensuring the safety of residents and staff.

Here’s an update on some of the Council’s key services:

Bin collections and recycling centres Refuse collections are continuing as usual and both the Chelson Meadow and Weston Mill household recycling centres remain open during their usual opening hours.

Garden waste collections are continuing until the end of November as planned.

Parks, open spaces and play areas Parks and nature reserves are all open, as are play areas and skate parks. However, tennis courts are closed.

Libraries Central, Plympton, Plymstock, St Budeaux and Southway libraries are providing a Select and Collect service and PC use by appointment. All other libraries are closed but the digital service is available and offers e-books and magazines, as well as audio books.

The Box

The Box has closed to comply with the Government guidance. Anyone with booked tickets is being contacted

about new dates. The Tourist Information Centre on the Barbican is also shut.

Registration service While no ceremonies such as marriages, civil partnerships or citizenship ceremonies are being held, the Register Office remains open for birth registrations and notices of marriage by appointment. Death registrations can continue to be made over the phone.

Support for businesses The Council will be administering a grant scheme for businesses affected by the lockdown. Visit www.plymouth. gov.uk for information.

Licensing and Public Protection teams The Council has a duty to ensure that businesses and venues are complying with the Government guidelines.

Teams are providing them with information and support on how to do this.

Support for vulnerable residents Caring for Plymouth, the partnership between the Council, Livewell Southwest and a large number of voluntary and community sector organisations, is being stood up to provide a vital lifeline for people who are clinically extremely vulnerable to COVID-19.

Schools Schools, colleges and universities remain open in line with the Government guidance. Early years settings and childminders remain open, and you can continue to use these settings as normal.

When dropping off or picking up children from school, please remember to observe social distancing.

Public toilets All Council-run toilets that have opened since the first lockdown remain open.

Plymouth Market Plymouth Market remains open for stalls selling essentials and food. The New George Street and Cornwall Street entrances are closed.

For the latest information about Council services visit: plymouth.gov.uk/covid-19

December 2020

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Ways you can stay fit and healthy during lockdown Many people will understandably feel worried or anxious about the ongoing COVID-19 situation and the prospect of a second lockdown.

We all know that by staying at home we’re helping to protect ourselves and others but it’s been a challenging time for most of us and social isolation can often add to the pressure.

It’s really important that we remember to pay attention not just to our physical health but also our mental health.

Making sure we find ways to stay connected with others, share our worries, take time to relax and do things we enjoy can have a big impact on how we feel.

If you need help managing stress or anxiety or just some tips on improving your overall health and wellbeing there is lots of advice and support available.

Check out our ‘staying well at home’ page at plymouth. gov.uk/publichealth, where you’ll find useful ideas for staying in touch, learning new things, finding new activities and keeping positive.

Public Health England have published online guidance at GOV.UK and the NHS website is full of tips for dealing with stress, anxiety or low mood.

Their Every Mind Matters site has practical advice on a range of topics including dealing with loneliness, sleeping better and working from home and there’s a short quiz that will give you a tailored ‘mind plan’. You’ll also find support sections for parents and carers and young people.

Visit www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters.

Plymouth City Council is offering guidance of ways of coping and staying healthy during this period.

Get daily exercise

Making sure we get outside in the fresh air during the day is even more important now it is winter and the evenings are dark.

A daily stroll or run can help both your physical and mental health.

The Government guidelines are that you can exercise or visit outdoor public places with the people you live with, your support bubble, or one person from another household. Children under school age and those dependent on round-the-clock care (who are with their parents) do not count towards the limit on two people meeting outside.

Outdoor public places include: parks, beaches, countryside, public gardens, allotments and playgrounds.

Remember, you should not meet others in a private garden.

The NHS website also has 10-minute workouts and home exercise videos and Sport England have loads of suggestions at sportengland.org/jointhemovement.

Take advantage of the digital library

The City Council’s library service offers a big range of e-books and magazines, as well as audio books. Visit www. plymouth.gov.uk/libraries

Three test sites now available in Plymouth Getting a test for COVID-19 is being made easier for many Plymouth residents with the opening of new local test centres in the city centre and at Plymouth Marjon University.

The centres, sponsored by the DHSC and operated

by Serco, are in addition to the regional test centre at the former Seaton Barracks site off William Prance Road.

The city centre site is in the lower Guildhall and was selected as it is easier for many people to get to without using a car. Anyone going for a test is asked to walk or cycle to and from the site and not use public transport or taxis.

The centre at Plymouth Marjon University is in the lower car park outside the gymnasium and is separated from the rest of the campus.

Testing is available only for those with coronavirus symptoms – a high temperature, a new, continuous cough, or a loss or change to sense of smell or taste.

Anyone with one or more of these symptoms

should book a test at nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119. The three Plymouth centres are provided as an option when booking a test, subject to availability.

Those being tested are asked to wash their hands before leaving home, wear a face covering on their journey to and from the centre and to not stop anywhere on the way.

Anyone testing positive for the virus will be contacted by NHS Test and Trace to help them track their contacts.

This will help people to identify who they may have been in close contact with, protecting others from further transmission.

Close contacts of those testing positive will also hear from NHS Test and Trace, asking them to stay at home for 14 days to prevent them from unknowingly spreading the virus. They will be advised to also book a test if they develop symptoms. However, they should not book a test if they don’t have symptoms.

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Explore The Box (virtually)

Unfortunately The Box is closed during the lockdown but you can explore its website. The Box team will be adding more ways to explore its excellent collection online at www.theboxplymouth.com.

Get ahead with your Christmas shopping

You can get ahead with your Christmas gift buying while also supporting Plymouth retailers by shopping local during lockdown.

While shops selling non-essential items are closed, many independent stores in Plymouth are selling online or providing click and collect services. Visit Shop4Plymouth.co.uk for information.

Discover hidden Plymouth on foot

There are some great walks on which to explore some of Plymouth’s great history.

The Co-operative Way is a 15-mile circular route around the north of the city.

It is a fascinating mix of nature and history, taking in stunning nature reserves and parks, as well as old forts and forgotten estates of some of Plymouth’s former great houses.

There’s also the Devonport Heritage Trail and the Waterfront Walkway.

The routes and descriptions are available by searching online.

4 December 2020

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Babcock takes on 300 graduates and apprentices - its biggest ever intake

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The 156 apprentices and 161 graduates will support a variety of projects and business areas at Devonport, from the Life Extension Programme on various frigates and submarines, to advanced manufacturing.

The apprentice roles are varied, from welders, fabricators and pipe workers, to electrical fitters, mechanical fitters and computer numerical control (CNC) machinists, while the graduates are filling a wide range of posts, including: mechanical, electrical, process and civil engineers, naval architects and project managers.

Paul Foster, managing director of Devonport

Royal Dockyard, is also new in post having started recently. He said: “I’m delighted that we’re able to welcome so many apprentices and graduates to Devonport, especially at a time of such turbulence.

“Being a recent recruit too, I’m sure they share my sense of pride in joining a business with such a great legacy and an exciting future. Our people make the difference, and I look forward to seeing the development of these young people as their careers progress.”

The apprentices and graduates undertook a thorough application process, including online testing and virtual interviews due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Alyssa Davies, sail maker apprentice said: “As an older apprentice this is a complete retrain for me, coming from my previous career in the NHS. I want

to start my new career specifically with Babcock because it has a good reputation, along with an incredible training package and brilliant career prospects. I just can’t wait for my first day in the workshop learning my new trade.”

Graduate mechanical engineer, Abby HeathSawyers, talked of her excitement at joining Babcock: “I couldn’t wait to join Babcock because it provides an exciting opportunity to work for a company that offers experience in so many different business areas.

“I am most looking forward to rotating placements around the company and learning as much as possible to aid me in my personal and professional development, and carrying out important and meaningful work with visible and impactful results.

to the loss of trees in the city.

Introducing more trees to Plymouth’s existing green coverage (52 per cent of total land) will help deliver on its Climate Emergency commitments by reducing C02 emissions, absorbing pollution and improving air quality.

Greening programmes also have many other benefits that include providing habitat for wildlife, improving urban aesthetics and benefitting the mental health of residents.

The newly established trees will be supported by the principles of the Plan for Trees which help trees in urban areas become fit for purpose, resilient to the challenges of climate change and disease, and adaptable to whatever new challenges the future may hold.

There are four themes to the Plan for Trees:

• To promote the benefits and value of trees through education and encouraging best practice • To protect Plymouth’s special trees and woodlands for future generations • To care for trees by practicing and promoting good tree and woodland management • To enhance urban areas by increasing tree canopy cover.

Cabinet Member for Environment and Street Scene – Councillor Sue Dann said: “Our tree programme not only commits to establishing new trees but also supports our existing trees, making sure they are suitably nurtured, ensuring communities get their full benefits.

“This is a yet another step for the council and our partners towards achieving a carbon neutral city by 2030.”

Council boosts tree planting in Plymouth

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A total of 2,800 new trees are being planted throughout the city between now and spring 2024 as part of the Plymouth Tree Challenge.

The £1.3 million investment from the council’s Capital Programme includes £425k funding from the Forestry Commission’s Urban Tree Challenge Fund and £120k from the Plan for Trees partners.

The 2,800 new trees will be added to the 394,000 trees that are already contained throughout Plymouth, and will be in fully accessible public places such as parks and open spaces, road verges, residential streets and outside housing developments.

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awareness of the commemorative year – now extending into 2021. Help others to participate in the cultural events programme and provide support for community activities within the areas of Sport & Wellbeing, Arts & This is your chance to do something for your city and your community to help make sure everyone has a

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Efford fly tipper caught on CCTV is ordered to pay more than £1,000 Caught on CCTV...Tristan Harper

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Tristan Harper, 53, of Higher Efford Road, appeared before Plymouth Magistrates Court on November 9 to answer for his crimes.

The court heard how in November 2019 Harper had been borrowing a garage from a friend in Evelyn Street. Upon arriving at the garage to collect some waste for disposal, Harper came across a pile of wood already discarded in the back lane.

But instead of reporting what he had found, Harper took his chance to add to the pile and dumped a car parcel shelf and a pole on top and an old fridge/freezer and a dumpy bag of waste nearby.

However, Harper was undone by a neighbour’s CCTV, which not only caught sight of the number plate of his van, but provided clear pictures of Harper depositing the waste himself.

On the basis of this evidence, the Plymoputh City Council sent Harper a fixed penalty notice for £400 but when it went unpaid, he was summonsed to court.

Pleading guilty, Harper was given a fine of £400 and ordered to pay a further £845 in investigation and legal costs. He must also stump up for a £40 victim surcharge, leaving him with a total bill of £1,285.

Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet member for Customer Focus and Community Safety, said: “This man thought he could get away with dumping his stuff in a back lane.

“He thought he could get away with not going to the recycling centre like everyone else; that he could get away with disrespecting the residents of Evelyn Street.

“But he didn’t get away with it and nor will others who try and do the same.”I say this every time but I won’t tire of saying it: Do not fly-tip. If you do, we will pursue you and we will punish you. ”Many of the council’s prosecutions for environmental crime are only possible when residents get in contact to report a crime and give evidence.

Residents can report fly-tipping online at www.plymouth.gov.uk/reportflytipping

6 December 2020

6 December 2020

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Plymouth ‘graffiti wall’ promotes national campaign

A colourful ‘graffiti wall’ has helped to raise awareness of vulnerable young people as part of a national campaign.

National Care Leavers’ Week – which ran from October 26 to November 1 – highlighted the needs of care leavers and celebrated their achievements.

In Plymouth, children’s charity Barnardo’s has partnered with Plymouth City Council to create the ‘Care Journey Programme’, sharing experience and expertise to design and deliver better outcomes for care-experienced young people.

As part of its work with local young people and to support the national campaign, Barnardo’s has unveiled a ‘graffiti wall’ at its Prideaux Court offices.

The artwork was created by six young people who are currently in care, who worked with local graffiti artist Jon Lilly.

It features the young people’s own words describing how they feel, incorporated into the larger words ‘Positive Destinations’ to reflect their hopeful journey to a brighter future.

The artwork was unveiled by Plymouth City Council Councillor Jemima Laing, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, Barnardo’s senior project worker Jason Owens said: “Care leavers have often experienced trauma, neglect and abuse, and face additional barriers to accessing education, employment and training.

“They are also at greater risk of poverty and homelessness, as well as struggling with isolation and poor mental health. However, we believe all young people can achieve a positive future with the right support.

“This graffiti wall is a striking illustration of their dream to reach a ‘positive destination’.”

Councillor Jemima Laing said: “Everyone

Barnardo’s senior project worker Jason Owens with Cllr Jemima Laing with the graffiti wall

engaged in thinking about or providing services to care leavers can be part of raising awareness, creating opportunities and promoting understanding, and key to that is listening to what care-experienced people tell us. This graffiti wall is a very effective way of doing that.

“By making sure everyone works together to support them and promote their full potential we can make sure the transition from care to living an independent adult life is successful.”

For further information on the Plymouth Care Journeys team, call (01752) 220012.

Makeover for big mural in Ford - see page 16

Consultation under way on Controversial homes plan proposed improvements in Stoke strongly opposed to Manadon Roundabout A consultation has begun on potential improvements to Manadon roundabout.

The roundabout, which serves as an interchange for the A38 from Cornwall and East Devon and the A386 from North Devon, is one of the busiest junctions on Plymouth’s road network with over 60,000 journeys passing through each day.

Not only is it on part of a major public transport corridor with over 30 buses passing through every hour, it also has a popular school nearby and forms a key route to Derriford Hospital.

As a result, the roundabout experiences significant congestion at peak times on each of the signalised arms with traffic often queuing back onto the A38.

With the predicted growth of the city and the need to support additional housing promised by the Council’s Plan for Homes, transport infrastructure like that at Manadon, will need to be addressed.

The city council is now investigating ways to improve this main corridor between northern and central Plymouth and are inviting public opinion to inform the design.

The scheme objectives are road safety, reducing congestion, improving air quality and upgrading current walking and cycling links to encourage sustainable transport.

Although there is not yet a design, potential improvements are being considered, including widening the entries and exits of the roundabout, adding extra capacity on Tavistock Road and adding a cycle lane to the fly-over.

Now, motorists, neighbouring residents, pedestrians and cyclists are all being invited to participate in the consultation so that a full spectrum of users of the roundabout have a chance to provide a view.

Councillor Mark Coker, Cabinet member for Strategic Planning and Transport, said: “Manadon Roundabout is absolutely key to our road network and so it is essential that it works as it should.

“Of course, we already know some of the issues this roundabout has.

But this consultation is a chance for people who live nearby or drive this road every day to tell us where they think the problems are so we can eventually bring forward a design that will see an improvement for everyone.”

With COVID-19 putting pay to events and face-to-face discussions, the initial consultation will take place online at www.plymouth.gov.uk/ a38manadoninterchange The survey will close on January 4 with findings published online in the New Year.

A controversial plan to build a block of apartments in Stoke has led to dozens of objections from local residents and councillors.

The planning application by company director Jim Woodley seeks permission to construct a building containing 10 two-bedroom apartments, along with parking, bike and bin storage, landscaping and the planting of an avenue of trees on land in Fitzroy Road, which is within the Stoke Conservation Area.

According to documents submitted to the city council, Mr Woodley purchased the plot of land in 2016 and subsequently built three houses on part of the land. The new planning application covers the remainder of the plot and involves a four-storey block, along with 16 off-street parking places.

Many of the objections relate to the proposed felling of trees on the site as well as issues over parking and traffic congestion.

Many objectors highlight the proximity of Stoke Damerel Primary School, City College Plymouth and Devonport High School for Boys and the parking problems caused in Fitzroy Road as a result.

An architect’s impression of the development ©Caullystone Architectural Practice

Plymouth City Council’s Highways Authority have objected to the proposal on the grounds that it would damage the local amenity, prejudice public safety and interfere with the free flow of traffic.

Housing Delivery have recommended there should be 30 per cent affordable housing included in the proposal while the council’s Natural Infrastructure Team objected to the plan stating that it would cause unacceptable loss and harm to protected trees and woodland, including two mature limes of high amenity value that form part of the character of the Stoke Conservation Area.

Stoke Councillors Sam Davey and Jemima Laing have objected to the proposal, commenting: ‘The parking arrangements are insufficient and the access/egress to that parking onto Fitzroy Road is unsighted and therefore dangerous due to the bend in the road. The surrounding area with schools and colleges mean that parking in the area is already str etched and overspill from this site will cause difficulties and dangers for residents in the road and surrounding areas.’

The application is due to be considered by the Planning Committee in December or January.

December 2020

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7

Top award for Devonport sailor A Chief Petty Officer based at Devonport Naval Base is the first to receive an award for his outstanding dedication to the Royal Navy.

CPO Marine Engineer Mechanic Ian Davies has been awarded the newly introduced ‘LSA5K Award’, that represents the incredible milestone of more than 5,000 days away from his Base port during his Naval Service - equating to more than 13 years at sea.

There to present Ian with his award was one of the Royal Navy’s most senior Admirals, Vice Admiral Chris Gardner, Chief of Material (Ships).

“I am delighted to present this award to Chief Davies in recognition of his time away, of over 5000 days throughout his long service and dedication to the Navy,” said Vice Admiral Gardner. “ I am also pleased that this presentation rewards both the Serviceperson and their family. Recognition of those who allow

us to continue in our chosen profession helps us all to continue supporting a Front Line-focussed Royal Navy.”

Ian joined the Royal Navy in 1984, beginning his initial training at HMS Raleigh, before completing his stoker’s course at HMS Sultan near Portsmouth.

His first draft was to the Leander Class frigate HMS Phoebe, one of the last of the steam-driven only ships in the Fleet.

Moving on in 1987, Ian then joined HMS Cornwall in build, the first of six Type 22 frigates he was to serve upon.

During his time within the Type 22 community he witnessed significant global events that included; HMS Beaver’s visit to Hong Kong preceding its handover 1997; HMS Chatham delivering support to Sri Lanka following the Boxing Day 2004 Tsunami and on board HMS Cumberland that was diverted to Libya to assist in removal of British and EU Nationals as well as British Dependents in 2011.

Between these drafts he has also

fulfilled roles on board HMS Nurton, a Northern Island Patrol boat and his first of four assignments within Naval Engineering Falkland Islands (NEFI).

He was fortunate enough also to participated in ‘Long-Look’ 2008, on an exchange with the Royal New Zealand Navy, where he worked maintaining small boats.

More recently, he has been the Ship Services Head of Group on board HMS Ocean whose roles included provision of relief effort during the Caribbean 2017 hurricane season; and subsequently remained with the ship until its handover to the Brazilian Navy.

Now in the last year of his career, Chief Davies is employed within Defiance Walkin Workshop as part of Surface Flotilla West’s Engineering Delivery Group in Devonport and still keen to accrue more days, recently supporting an in-theatre requirement on-board HMS Montrose, in the Gulf.

Chief Petty Officer Ian Davies with his award

Plymouth businesses set to benefit from successful skills funding bid Plymouth businesses and residents are set to benefit from a recent bid for skills funding to the European Social Fund worth £3.5 million.

The bid, led by Plymouth City Council, has developed a skills delivery partnership with a range of quality training and skills providers across Devon, including City College Plymouth.

Council Leader Tudor Evans has endorsed this significant investment to the city which will be delivered over the next three years .

The SMART Skills funding bid will help small or medium-sized enterprise (SME) businesses to identify skills gaps in their existing workforce and

provide the skills training they need to become more resilient during this economic crisis.

Councillor Jon Taylor, Cabinet Member for Education, Transformation and Skills, said: “The fact that we have been successful in securing this funding for Plymouth and the wider area is tremendous and really exciting. Not only are we able to help our residents and businesses to improve their skills but we are showing as a local authority we are here to help and support the city in any way we can.”

SMART Skills is due to launch in December and will include a range of services and offers to SMEs including; impartial information,

advice and guidance, training needs analysis, a skills brokerage service and skills training.The range of skills support includes all levels from introductory all the way through to leadership and management. Digital skills are also a key feature of skills support and the bid aims to support business now for the future.

Councillor Taylor added: “Our intention is to help local people to build the skills that local employers need both today and in the future to fill the jobs. This funding will be a real asset to the work of the Skills Launchpad Plymouth and the developing offer of support for city employers.”

Skills Launchpad Plymouth is a virtual free

one-stop-shop skills service which aims to help local people stay informed to equip themselves with the skills and confidence that they will need to play a part in the city’s future.It is continuously updated as the go to place for local skills support, providing orientation and up to date real-time labour market intelligence so that local people can stay informed about the real employment opportunities today and in the future. The service also offers comprehensive impartial information, advice and guidance, in order to match opportunities to pathways into education, training, apprenticeships, employment, work experience, volunteering and self-employment.

8 December 2020

Garden waste registration opens for 2021

8 December 2020

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Brickfields is back on track!

Residents are being urged to sign up for next year’s garden waste collections in plenty of time.

As announced earlier this year, the service will be moving from bags to wheeled bins, in line with industry best practice.

Registration is now open with households who register before January 7 able to receive delivery of their new wheelie bin free of charge.

Also in the registration process is the option to order either a 140 litre or a 240 litre bin.

To sign up log onto www.plymouth.gov.uk/ gardenwaste and follow the instructions.

Householders who were registered this year need to sign up this year too so that arrangements can be made for delivery of a new bin ready for next year’s collection to start.

The change in policy is being introduced in line with industry best practice around manual handling health and safety for staff.

In 2019, the teams lifted more than 4,400 tonnes of garden waste throughout the year, all of which had to be physically hauled from the ground into refuse vehicles.

In contrast, the new wheelie bins are easier to move and are mechanically lifted by the vehicle. They will also keep garden waste dry and tidy and will be easier to clean.

The new wheelie bins will have far less impact on the environment as they have a much longer lifespan than the difficult-to-recycle bags, are less likely to go missing, get torn or blow away unlike the bags which have limited durability.

Only garden waste which is put out in bins will be collected. The bins are planned to be delivered to households who have signed up early in February and March, in time for collections beginning in April.

In order to use the service, residents have to be able to keep their new bin inside the boundary of their property.

Crowdfunder to bring ‘Christmas in a Box’ to thousands of local people

The Box has joined forces with Fosters Event Catering, the company that runs its Kitchen & Bar, for a special crowdfunding campaign aimed at helping local families during the festive season.

‘Christmas in a Box’ aims to raise enough money to provide 2,500 families people with the ingredients to make a Christmas dinner for four people.

Executive chef Nat Tallents and her team will be putting together the boxes filled with tasty, nutritious food that will be delivered to local families and households across the city. The campaign is supported

by Plymouth City Council, Plymouth Community Homes and The Box Foundation (a charitable organisation which supports The Box).

Pledges can be made via www. crowdfunder.co.uk/christmas-in-abox-2020 at any point over the next month.

Nat Tallents said: “Alongside the challenges and uncertainties posed by the pandemic, we know there are many people living in the city who are struggling to feed their families. A good meal is something that can bring people together in the toughest of times and I hope everyone will get behind the campaign.

Raising enough money to create these meal boxes would be the best Christmas present possible.”

Photo shows (left to right): Keith Reed from Armada Athletics Network, Deputy Council Leader Peter Smith, Jeanette Munton from Smith Construction, Paul Crutchley from City of Plymouth Athletic Club and Ben Blundy from Everyone Active

Help for Heroes fundraisers beat lockdown to complete triathlon charity challenge

Two Plymouth-based fitness instructors have beaten lockdown by completing a charity fundraiser for Help for Heroes a week early raising over £2,000.

Ros Glendinning and Gilly Ellis, who already volunteer their time to run free Pilates classes for military veterans at Help for Heroes, wanted to take their generosity a step further.

They had planned to complete a dawn to dusk fitness challenge on Remembrance Sunday, but as soon as the second lockdown was announced they made an on-thespot decision to bring the date forward to November 1, losing out on a week’s training in the process, rather than risk having to cancel the event.

During the day, the duo completed a classic swim-bike-run triathlon alongside some less traditional activities and hosted their fitness classes online via Zoom.

Ros and Gilly started at sunrise with a 1.7km sea swim at Devil’s Point, followed by a 7km cycle. In the next few hours they instructed two hour-long CheeziFit dance fitness classes and a one-hour Pilates class.

They did 100 burpees and 500 hula hoops, accompanied by supporters via Zoom. They finished the day off with a 7km run, passing by the war memorial on Plymouth Hoe and ending up where the day began at Devil’s Point at sunset.

Ros said: “We’ve been passionate about supporting the military veterans and Help for Heroes beneficiaries for years now. Both being part of military families and living in a military city we’re wrapped in military history and we see first-hand as volunteers the importance of continuous support through the pandemic.

“It’s been incredibly important to raise funds through inventive means but also awareness for Help for Heroes which has

Ros Glendinning and Gilly Ellis pictured at Devil’s Point

taken a huge hit in 2020. If we can’t be together physically then there’s always ways to raise both funds and awareness for these outstanding military individuals.

“We wanted to show the military veterans and beneficiaries that we care, they are a priority and we steadfastly remember those that died for us, those that have served and we applaud our future military generations who may need to be supported one day.”

Gilly added: “We wanted to make the day gruelling and a serious challenge so we would raise as much as we could.

Our triathlon will never be as hard as the mental and physical battles we see first-hand for some of the veterans. It was a gesture or thanks, appreciation and respect.”

A total of £2,200 has been donated to their fundraising page, with Plymouth’s Slug and Lettuce staff raising £367 of that total with customers’ support up to the last minute they could on November 4.

The Brickfields athletics track and field facility in Devonport has reopened following a £700,000 upgrade.

Its 400-metre running track has been completely re-laid and the long jump, high jump, shot put, throwing cage and water jump have all been refurbished.

The site will also benefit from extra storage facilities and a new hut for officials, as well as a new two-metre perimeter fence and an upgraded CCTV system.

Deputy Council Leader Peter Smith said: “I’m delighted that Plymouth can once again boast a high-quality athletics venue, following these major improvement works. It’s not just for super-fit club runners and athletes – it’s a facility that everyone can use.

“We will continue to work with Everyone Active to develop a year-round activity programme that not only supports local clubs and athletes but also includes activities that promote health and wellbeing for all.”

UK Athletics have awarded the outdoor facility Track Mark accreditation under their new quality assurance scheme, meaning it is well managed and maintained and accessible to participants of all abilities.

The site attracts over 18,500 attendances a year from clubs, schools, universities and the MoD and has produced top-class athletes such as sprinter Katherine Endacott and hurdler David King. It is also home to the City of Plymouth Athletic Club and is well-used by the Armada Network (representing 11 local running clubs).

Paul Crutchley, Chairman of the City of Plymouth Athletic Club, said: “We would like to thank Smith Construction and Plymouth City Council for the refurbishment of the Brickfields track and field facility. It is now a really high quality arena that everyone can use come rain or shine. We hope that local organisations, schools and other community groups will utilise these facilities going forward.

“The City of Plymouth Athletic Club is a voluntary sports club and is always looking for volunteers and assistants to help with coaching and running the club. Anyone interested in joining our club and trying out track and field can contact us at www. plymouthac.co.uk.”

Facilities can be hired by clubs, groups or schools on a regular basis or for one-off events.

Individuals can also access the facilities for personal training.

For more information call 01752 563320 or visit www.everyoneactive.com/centre/brickfieldssports-centre.

December 2020

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9

Partnership deal will bring 600 new homes More than 600 new homes will be built in Plymouth thanks to a new partnership between Plymouth City Council and Plymouth Community Homes.

Councillor Penberthy said: “I am delighted to be able to sign this agreement which I know with prove fruitful over the next few years.

“By signing up a formal agreement with our long-term partners PCH, we can ensure that we The city’s biggest housing association and continue to deliver the right homes in the right the council have teamed up for the agreement locations for the people of Plymouth.” which will see construction of an initial 601 new John Clark added: “We already have a strong homes, of which at least 444 will be for affordable and positive working relationship with the city housing. council and this agreement The partnership will bring builds on that. forward £95.7m of investment “We’re really looking opportunities with the council forward to delivering these providing land and £4.75m of homes, which will be high financial assistance through quality in terms of design, the Plan for Homes. build and materials and Plymouth Community we’ll also seek to explore Homes (PCH) will bring land low carbon opportunities.” and £12.5 million of subsidy As part of the agreement, to deliver 601 new homes, PCH will also support the with potential to deliver more Resurgam programme homes as the partnership to boost Plymouth’s develops and further land and economic recovery and funding opportunities become support the Building available.

Plymouth Programme The homes will include a Cllr Chris Penberthy by creating a number mix of social and affordable of new construction rent, shared ownership and apprenticeships and enabling people to move into open market sale with a variety of house types full-time employment. including bungalows, flats and family homes.

Sites currently earmarked for development There will be 292 social and affordable rented, under the agreement include Bath Street West, 152 for shared ownership and 157 for open market Colin Campbell Court, West Park Hill and land at sale.

Bampton Road. It is hoped future sites will be The agreement was virtually signed included, delivering a potential 1,500 new homes

by Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet member for in the lifetime of the agreement.

Housing and Cooperative Development and John More information on our Plan for Homes can be Clark, chief executive of Plymouth Community found here: www.plymouth.gov.uk/planforhomes Homes.

Stoke Damerel Community College held a number of activities for Remembrance Day, including filling the school’s reception area with poppy art, and a successful Poppy Appeal in support of the Royal British Legion.

The reception area was decorated with poppies, created by Year 7 and 8 students in their art lessons - a moving tribute to all those who have lost their lives in conflicts around the world.

Tutors read ‘The History of Wearing the Red Poppy’ to all students, before the College observed the two-minute silence at 11am.

The Combined Cadet Force were on parade, and a bugler sounded The Last Post.

The fundraising events included the sale

OPEN Don’t forget your local childcare provider is

Me2 and Early Years Funded places are available

Sea of poppy art at Stoke Damerel Community College of poppy items and a cupcake sale for staff, organised by teacher, Karen Hill. She said: “This year, the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal reached out for additional support, as many of their sellers are vulnerable pensioners and are not able to raise money at their usual selling venues.

“The college pledged to raise £150 and we are well on the way to reaching this goal, if not exceeding it. That is a fantastic effort. And the poppy art looked absolutely amazing.”

If your child is aged between three and four years old you are entitled to 15 hours of free childcare a week with an Ofsted registered provider.

Families earning less than £16,190, with a two year old, could get up to 15 hours of free childcare per week.

If your children normally access childcare it’s really important they continue to attend so that they can gain the learning and wellbeing benefits of early education.

Find out more plymouth.gov.uk/ childcarefamilyinformation

Supporting childcare providers, working together to provide a range of childcare options.

10 December 2020

10 December 2020

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Plea for Poorly Pumpkin Gables Dogs and Cats Home were asked to help an extremely poorly and malnourished kitten at Halloween.

Poorly Pumpkin... appeal for donations

‘Poorly Pumpkin’, as she has been affectionately named, is only 10 months old but has already had a litter of kittens. This has caused her tiny, weak body to shut down as the kittens have literally drained the life from her. She weighs just 1.6kg - less than half of what a healthy kitten her age should weigh.

She was severely dehydrated when she arrived at Gables and immediately had life-saving fluids administered as well as treatment for a flea and worm infestation.

She is also suffering from respiratory problems, digestive issues and has painful, weeping eyes.

Poorly Pumpkin’s short sad life has so far been spent fending for herself in the wild, but now she must continue to fight for her survival with Gables’ help. She received a call about kittens has had very limited human giving birth to kittens and it contact so far and is currently will not be the last. However it semi feral but she will still is the first time we have seen a receive the best care and as much love and attention as she cat this tiny and so poorly yet still alive! is able to handle.

“Once we saw how ill she Ruth Rickard, deputy was we knew we had to do manager said: “Most people everything in our power to try don’t realise that a kitten is to save her. We were absolutely able to reproduce as young as four months old. So sadly this shocked that any of them (mum or kittens) had survived is not the first time we have

“What care means to me” - Natalie

At Friends Helping at Home we are really keen to share the amazing stories of our service providers. Our dedicated ladies and gents work tirelessly to support clients across the South West. In this article, we celebrate the lovely Natalie!

Natalie has worked in both our Plymouth and Torbay branches and continues to share the love across the South West.

How did your journey in care begin?

I worked in a supermarket for a while and found that I was having a lot of panic attacks. I noticed how much focussing on other people calmed me so I decided to change my job to something more people focussed. I got a job in a small care home in Newton Abbot and it changed my life. Now there is nothing that I would rather do.

Over £3 million secured to make Plymouth homes more energy-efficient A £3.3 million grant is set to improve energy efficiency in hundreds of Plymouth homes. The money, which comes from the Government’s Green Homes Grants scheme, will help to go towards measures in the homes that are most in need of energy saving improvements.

at all. Poorly Pumpkin has given everything to help her kittens and now we must do everything we can to help her.”

It is estimated that it will cost Gables an additional £500 for Poorly Pumpkin’s lifesaving treatments, veterinary care and specialist food. Even though the charity is struggling financially due to the effects of the Coronavirus pandemic,

especially with the latest lockdown now in place, they are determined to help Poorly Pumpkin begin to regain her strength and start the search for her forever home.

To make a contribution to ‘Poorly Pumpkin’s Vet Appeal’, call 01752 331602 or visit www. virginmoneygiving.com/fund/ poorlypumpkin to donate online.

Why do you love your work so much?

I find it really comforting to know how much I am able to help someone, especially when you are helping someone stay in their home. There’s no place like home – you really can save someone by doing something (however small) to keep them there. When I am with a client I feel like I can really be myself – if I didn’t need to have a job, I would do it anyway.

What was it like working through the height of the lockdown?

I thought more about PPE and things like that but my actual job was the same. For me it doesn’t matter what is in the way. Some people needed more support without family and friends to help them. There has also been a change in the amount of emotional support I have to give my clients but that’s ok – I’m glad I can be there for them.

The programme will support the Plymouth City Council’s Climate Emergency commitment to make Plymouth carbon neutral by 2030. Around 300 homes will benefit from the funding through the installation of energy efficient measures each costing on average of £10,000 per property.

This is estimated to save £4.5 million in energy bills and deliver 19,000 tonnes of CO2 reductions over the lifetime of the measures.

The energy improvements will be subject to the Energy Performance Certificate recommendations at each property, but could include solid wall insulation, under floor insulation and the fitting of solar panels.

We are delighted to have Natalie in our team, serving the needs of our customers every day.

Are you looking for a new career?

This has been a time for many to consider career options, as new constraints will have forged a “new normal”, changing the way we want to work. We have been able to maintain “service as normal” throughout.

Our way of working has meant that we have been able to attract the best carers. We have a 90%+ carer retention rate and we have well established working relationships with the NHS and Adult Social Care teams. To find out more, use the contact details on this page to get in touch.

Absolute continuity of care.

Your choose your carer from our vigorously vetted team.

Your chosen carer will get to know you and your needs - you can ask for what makes you feel comfortable and safe.

A single point of contact to address any concerns and reassure you.

Full PPE as standard.

Contact Jo to discuss your requirements and to arrange a free initial visit, without obligation on your part to discuss your requirements.

Call us on

What advice do you have for young people considering a career in care?

I would say if you’re thinking about it then go for it. I would also say it’s really important to make sure that you have the support that you need for all of the other things that go with work so that you can just focus on your clients and their needs.

The installation programme, due to be complete by April 2021, complements the Council’s Resurgam COVID-19 recovery plan by creating and securing local contractors employing 43 full time staff, including five apprentices.

Cabinet Member for Environment and Street Scene, Councillor Sue Dann said; “This is very welcome funding and will help households in Plymouth, by reducing their energy bills and fuel poverty. “Improving energy efficiency in our homes not only saves money, but reduces carbon emissions and contributes to curbing climate change, this helps local people and the planet.

“Given the current economic challenges, it’s positive that the installation of these energy-efficient measures will further support the local economy by providing jobs and opportunity.”

Residents who wish to apply for national Green Home Grant vouchers directly, can find out more at Plymouth Energy Community’s webpage https:// plymouthenergycommunity. com/news/green-homes-grant

(01752) 648 320 We provide a safe, friendly and professional service that enables you to remain living in the comfort of your own home.

Email:

plymouth@friendshelpingathome.co.uk

Find us online at: friendshelpingathome.co.uk

December 2020

@PlymChronicle

11

Double win for community art group A community art group which first set up in Plympton before spreading its wings across Plymouth is celebrating a double boost to its cause.

The Mindful Art Club is receiving £250 of new funding, as well as £3000 worth of business support. The £250 has been awarded to them by Plymouth Octopus Project to cover some of their volunteer expenses and the year-long business support package has been offered to them by The Real Ideas Organisation.

Peggy Melmoth and Emma Sprawson, who both have BA(Hons) degrees in art, had only been running community art groups for a few months when the first coronavirus lockdown in March forced them to cancel all of their groups.

They immediately began offering online versions of all their sessions using Zoom video conferencing software and broadcasting via Facebook Live. Before the March lockdown their groups had been partfunded by individual voluntary donations, but since the end of March 2020 Peggy and Emma have been running the groups purely as volunteers.

When the original lockdown restrictions began to ease in July they then started running small outdoor mindful art groups in a park in Plympton, In August they launched an additional new weekly group at The Sunflower Women’s Centre in Plymouth.

Prior to the second national lockdown they were running a total of four weekly groups around Plympton and Plymouth. They hope to continue these once the latest lockdown ends. They also continue to run their free online group for those who can’t make it to a real-life session.

Celebrating...Peggy Melmoth and Emma Sprawson

Peggy said: “We started Mindful Art Club to improve mental health and social connection in the Plymouth community by offering mutual aid support groups and teaching mindfulness and art for self-care. We were literally trying to fight social isolation at a time when we were all advised to isolate ourselves.”

Emma said: “We used to be part of the support team at Broadreach House addiction treatment centre. When Broadreach closed last year we were both made redundant, but

decided that we still wanted to use our skills to support people in the community.”

In October The Real Ideas Organisation offered a number of free membership packages, worth over £3,000 each, to entrepreneurial people with ideas that they thought could become brilliant businesses.

To apply for a fully funded ‘Start Something’ membership Peggy and Emma submitted a written business proposal and a three minute video outlining their ideas.

Peggy said: “We are so excited to win this

and are really looking forward to networking with the other businesses that won a place.”

The fully funded membership package from Real Ideas gives Mindful Art Club access to workspace at Ocean Studios in Royal William Yard, business support mentors and access to events, workshops and one to one coaching.

The Start Something project is part of the iMayflower project and has been supported

by The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, who fund the Cultural Development Fund, which is administered by Arts Council England.

Emma said: “Just after winning the Start Something membership we also received £250 funding from Plymouth Octopus Project (POP), which covers some of our expenses volunteering at The Sunflower Women’s Centre.” POP offers funding advice, business and planning support to Plymouth’s voluntary sector.

The Sunflower Women’s Centre is a women’s only outreach centre set up by Trevi House in 2016. Sunflower is a traumainformed women’s wellbeing hub, providing opportunities for any woman who has support needs.

Paula Carnell, Team Lead, said: “We have been very happy to have had Peggy and Emma come into the Sunflower Women’s Centre and give their time volunteering to run their wonderful Mindful Art group for our women. This has been a valuable service and given many of our women support and some purpose and stability, with their patience and gentle listening ears during the lockdown period.”

To find out more about Mindful Art Club’s usual weekly groups and wellbeing courses visit www.mindfulartclub.co.uk and www. facebook.com/mindfulartclub

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12 December 2020

£100,000 boost for Plymouth award-winning women’s charity

Award-winning Plymouth women’s charity Trevi - previously known as Trevi House - is to receive £100,000 From Barclays towards COVID-19 related costs.

In April Barclays announced a £100m Community Aid Package to support charities that are helping people and communities most impacted by COVID-19.

Trevi was one of 100 charities receiving £100,000 in the £10m funding donated through Barclays 100x100 UK COVID-19 Community Relief Programme.

Trevi was chosen by a selection committee for the meaningful work they are doing with women and children in need.

Supporting more than 550 women and children per year, Trevi provides safe and nurturing spaces for women and their families to heal, grow and thrive. Trevi’s vision is for a society where all women in recovery can access good quality, psychologically informed, gender-based interventions without apology.

Today, Trevi’s work is delivered across three key centres: Jasmine Mother’s Recovery A child is taken into care every 16 minutes, with only one in 10 being reunited with their mother. Jasmine’s dedicated and expert team works with each mother to help her break her addiction for good and to be the best mother she can be.

And the results speak for themselves: 98% of women who go to Jasmine Mother’s Recovery successfully detox and almost 8 out of 10 children get to stay with their mother.

Sunflower Women’s Centre The Sunflower Women’s Centre is the only women’s centre in Plymouth, providing a safe hub for connection and hope.

Every year, Sunflower supports and empowers more than 500 local women, many with complex needs and experience of trauma and abuse.

Sunflower offers a wrap-around therapeutic service for any woman in need in the city. This could include addictions, mental wellbeing, health, criminogenic behaviours, domestic abuse, and social isolation.

Over the past two years, 90% of women supported by Sunflower say it has been a lifeline, with 75% able to move forward in life after support from Sunflower.

Daffodil Family Centre Daffodil is Trevi’s residential parenting assessment centre, offering 12-week placements. Daffodil provides quality, psychologically informed assessments with purpose, placing the child at the centre of its work with a trauma informed approach.

Since the pandemic began, Trevi has maintained operations across all three centres. Dedicated staff at have continued to do all they can to keep their services running smoothly despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

@PlymChronicle

College of Art graduate’s big break with global video games giant King

A Plymouth College of Art graduate has secured an internship with one of the world’s biggest video game development companies.

Plymouth College of Art BA (Hons) Game Arts graduate Liliana Pita has secured an internship role at King, the company responsible for smash hit mobile games such as Candy Crush Saga, Farm Heroes and the upcoming reboot runner game Crash Bandicoot: On the Run!, due for release next year.

King has over 200 titles, with over 271 million active users across the world and has studios in London, Stockholm, Barcelona, Malmo and Berlin. It was acquired by Activision Blizzard in 2016, the company behind the rights to games such as Call of Duty, Guitar Hero and Spyro the Dragon.

Liliana, also known as Lili, said: “I’ve been a big fan of King and their games for Liliana and (below) an example of her work many years and it was always a company I wanted to work for when I’d finished my degree. I would check their website for job opportunities and I’d done a lot of networking and events to get me familiar with their culture and to get to know some of their talent.

“I saw that there was a User Interface (UI) Art internship, and I applied straight away even though it was in Barcelona. I did a couple interviews and an art test, but unfortunately came second, but was recommended for the London studio! A huge inspiration to me, they are so incredibly couple of interviews later and I got a yes! It talented and create such beautiful visuals was a dream come true, I even cried a little! effortlessly, which is truly inspiring. Everyone “I have learned so much already from the on the team is always ready to give me great role, with each new task more challenging feedback, which has improved my knowledge than the last. As a UI art intern, I help create of art fundamentals massively.” the visual components through which a Originally from Madeira, Lili came to player interacts with a game. This could be Plymouth College of Art after struggling to anything from menus, buttons, leaderboards find a game arts course back in Portugal. or icons. I make sure these elements are She attended the college in 2015, leaving in intuitive, appealing to the eye and make 2019 with a First Class Honours degree in BA sense in the game. You learn how to work in (Hons) Game Arts. the game’s style and as a team, bring new “I was unsure as to what I wanted to study experiences to players. exactly until my aunt, who had been living “The team at King have become such a

in Plymouth for about two years told me about the college. I didn’t know whether to do illustration, animation or game arts so thought it was best to do the Extended BA degree.

“This gave me the opportunity to explore different subjects and I decided on Game Arts. I felt this covered my need to create art within illustration and animation and felt the Game Arts course would give me the biggest set of skills to help me fulfill my dream of working in the games industry.

“My advice to anyone trying to get into the industry themselves would be never stop creating art. It’s easy to see your casual part time job as a career path, but think of it as a Plan B for when you’re not successful with applications or interviews.

It’s easy to get comfortable and think of it as temporary, but never give up!”

Lecturer on BA (Hons) Game Arts Luke West said: “While studying at Plymouth College of Art Liliana was a hardworking and dedicated student to her practice, exploring a variety of techniques and processes that would benefit her as a game artist.

“During the third year she was focused on the direction she wanted to go in terms of working in the industry and then took every opportunity in order to succeed.

It is a great pleasure to see Liliana take her first steps into working within the entertainment industry.”

Globally, the gaming industry is predicted to be worth £140 billion by 2021, with the animation industry estimated to be worth £170 billion.

Plymouth College of Art recognises the importance of these industries, and their contribution to the UK economy, which is why Plymouth College of Art has announced its BA (Hons) Animation & Games programme launching in September 2021, which combines the relevant transferable skills needed for these industries into one course.

Find out more about Plymouth College of Art on the website.

Talented artist’s work to feature in exhibition A former Plymouth College of Art graduate has been named as the winner of the Brownston Fresh Talent Award for 2020.

Sianan, who is 25 and lives in Eggbuckland, was given the award for her series of four portraits of her boyfriend which she completed during lockdown.

She graduated in the summer with a degree in Painting, Drawing and Printmaking.

Sianan’s work will be on display alongside work by other artists including Theresa Pemberton and Sabina Pieper at The Brownston Gallery’s annual Winter Exhibition in Modbury which runs until the end of January.

Talking about her final semester at Plymouth College of Art, Sianan said: “Apart from the work, when I think of my final term it also fills me with sadness that I didn’t get the closure of finishing my degree like every third year before me. ““Back in March when the lockdown was announced, we all thought nothing of it, that we’d all be back in a month and work towards

building the degree show that we had already started planning at the time. But that never happened, we had all said our goodbyes without even knowing it, we had all attended our last lectures, working alongside each other at our desks, having our casual chats in the corridors and inbetween lectures, we were to never experience it again.

“It’s a weird feeling, knowing that we’ll all never probably be in the same room again, and we never got the final goodbye that we had been promised at the start of the degree at our end of year show.

“It actually doesn’t feel like I’ve finished. But I guess that’s life, and it did certainly make us all stronger as we all got through to the other side.”

“Along with her artwork, Sianan plans to go down the route as an art therapist. “I have always looked at art as a way of expressing my emotions and feelings, as a tool to discovering more about ourselves as creative individuals. I’ve also always had a caring mindset, so both naturally go hand in hand,” she added.

December 2020

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Christmas is back at Theatre Royal!

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Christmas is back at Theatre Royal Plymouth - with a pantomime and seasonal shows.

The Christmas programme at TRP will include a socially distanced pantomime produced, thanks to support from the National Lottery, with long standing TRP partners Qdos Entertainment. The all-new production, Robinson Crusoe will run for three weeks only from Saturday December 12.

In the Drum, Stuff & Nonsense will present The Gingerbread Man for families and their little ones - the adventure of the deliciously smelling Gingerbread Man who finds his feet fast and sets off on the journey of a lifetime.

Gonzo Moose will present The Thing That Came From Over There - inspired by the Horror movies of the 1950s, a fastpaced rollicking ride, mixing paranoia, suspense and hilariously gruesome deaths - an alternative Christmas comedy.

The panto will star Les Dennis, Connor McIntyre, Simon Webbe, Andy Ford and Jennie Dale.

Television presenter, comedian and actor Les Dennis has been a mainstay of British entertainment for more than 40 years. Les hosted Family Fortunes for an unprecedented fifteen-year run while his other TV credits include Coronation Street as Michael Rodwell, a petty criminal who met his demise at the hands of the evil Pat Phelan, played by his pantomime cast (and now ship) mate, Connor McIntyre. Les will star as Mrs Crusoe, mother of the sea-sailing hero, Robinson.

Pop sensation Simon Webbe is best known for being a member of the charttopping boy band Blue as well as his stint in the Australian jungle in I’m a Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here!

Joining Les, Connor and Simon will be returning panto favourite, comedian Andy Ford as Billy Crusoe. One of pantomime’s most successful comedians the Devonborn funny man has appeared on stages across the UK entertaining thousands of theatregoers with his quick-wit, physical routines and sense of humour winning rave-reviews and legions of fans

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wherever he performs.

This year’s production, created especially for Theatre Royal Plymouth in this unprecedented year, will be a riotously funny, one-act celebration of pantomime, packed full of comedy and laughter and allow audience members the opportunity to come safely together and enjoy the magic of the much-loved and unique art form this festive season.

Adrian Vinken, CEO at Theatre Royal Plymouth said: “We are just thrilled to be able to bring Robinson Crusoe with its terrific cast to Plymouth this Christmas.

Adrian Vinken

This panto may feel a little different to previous years with the new measures we’ve put in place to keep our audiences, staff and performers safe. However, with this cast I’m confident that the panto spirit and fun will feel just as magical as ever.

“Despite the new lockdown that the whole country is facing right now, everyone at TRP is still working hard to deliver our plans. We aim to bring some much-needed laughter and Christmas spirit back to our stages, and vitality and life back to our city centre.”

Tickets for Robinson Crusoe are now on sale and available to purchase on the TRP website. TRP have been working hard to make the building safe to welcome audiences back to enjoy the magic of theatre. A number of changes and new safety measures have been put in place for the protection of performers, staff and audience members.

These include reduced seating capacities, bookings restricted to household and support bubbles only up to a maximum of six people, digital e-tickets, temperature checks on arrival, social distancing on site, plenty of hand sanitising stations and enhanced cleansing of all public spaces, including use of electro-static disinfectant machines.

Tickets for the festive fantastic season will be on sale to the general public from November 18 and available to purchase at www.theatreroyal.com/whats-on

Award winning placement for Plymouth student

Plymouth University student Matthew Lees has received a prestigious award from the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) for his outstanding performance during a placement year as part of his BEng Civil Engineering course.

with his commitment and desire to learn he clearly has a very bright future ahead of him.”

Paul Santer, CECA South West Regional Director, said that the success of Matthew and the other winners highlighted the current opportunities available for young people in civil engineering.

Matthew was named the top Plymouth University student at “Matthew has made an exceptional start to his university the CECA South West Young Achiever Awards for his outstanding studies and has now successfully applied his talents in the achievements while working with Jackson Civil Engineering. field,” he said.

He was one of five young people recognised for exceptional “Civil engineering needs more young people like Matthew performance and dedication at a COVID-secure ceremony in who can bring their talent and Torquay sponsored by BAM enthusiasm to our industry.

Nuttall.

There are lots of opportunities During his placement year, for young men and women Matthew took on the role of across many different areas site engineer on a number of the economy – from coastal of projects, including the engineering and marine projects installation of embankment to transportation and renewable piles on a 115m section of the energy.”

M11 and the replacement and The CECA South West Young maintenance of piers at West Achiever Awards are presented Woodford. annually in recognition of Paul Watson, highways director exceptional performance, with at Jackson Civil Engineering said: each winner receiving a trophy “Matthew’s enthusiasm shone Matthew Lees pictured with Dave Ellis, chairman of and cheque for £500. through on every project and CECA South West, who presented the awards

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With another lockdown upon us; darker evenings; colder days and Christmas on-its-way it is time to resurrect the help and support we gave to our neighbours earlier in the year. It is crucial that the community spirit already in evidence, extends throughout the winter and all that it might bring.

Plymouth Octopus Project is just one of many partners working hard to set up and strengthen a web of Neighbourhood Care Networks across the city to see us through these dark and difficult times. Through the NCN’s we can offer practical support, reassurance and companionship, and let people know that they are not alone. From helping to pick up prescriptions to walking the dog, individuals have been amazing at supporting their neighbours. Now, as new needs emerge and the effects of the sustained impacts of the virus become more visible in our communities, so efforts are underway to widen the support to include other needs, such as people’s mental and emotional health.

Your Neighbourhood Needs You!

Better together – our communities are stronger; safer and more-resilient when we work together. Many people have already signed up and are giving their time & support

Want to help out in your community?

If you’re an individual or an organisation that wants to be involved text this city-wide number 07411 949 742 and you will be contacted by someone local to you, who will welcome your support.

Better Together Nearly seventy individuals and organisations across Plymouth - along with the involvement of St Luke’s Hospice; the Citizens Advice Bureau and the Devon Community Learning Academy - are collaborating, working across the digital platform ‘slack’ to strengthen and support the NCN’s in their geographic areas. The significant inclusion of these key organisations enables the NCN’s to access their expertise if – and when – the NCN’s are faced with individuals with individual challenges, such as, bereavement; concerns about ‘debt’ and digital inclusion. Now other areas across the city are exploring how they too might set up their own unique support group.

“Neighbourhoods like Efford and Lipson; Hooe; Plympton; Devonport and St. Budeaux are all curious about how they might employ their own Neighbourhood Care Network to help others in a way that works for them. There’s a genuine positive energy, and more people adding to that all the time” said Stephane Kolinsky from the Hoe Neighbourhood Forum.

POP+ continues to offer training and funding support to individuals and groups to enable them to help others - particularly during this period of a second lockdown. There is also digital training to help people become familiar with the different platforms that are being employed, such as, zoom, slack and open collective. For more information about the NCN’s and/or the training sessions call 395131 or email info@plymouthoctopus.org

Wonderzoo Arts Organisation,

Imperfect Cinema and Soapbox Culture are on a mission to explore how Plymouth could offer a collaborative and inclusive Literary Festival. The collective has recently employed a researcher to help with this work. As most events have been, and continue to be on hold due to Covid, the project has been re-shaped to try and find out what might be possible in the future by bringing people together and supporting collaboration across Plymouth’s literary groups.

Our Festival of Zoom 2020

POP+ went zooming online last mon th for its annual festival which, this year, was appropriately called “Bett er Together ”. More than 70 individuals, organisations and members turned up in the digital atmosphere and took part in training sessions; workshops & networking opportunities. Jane Hembrow from the Plymouth Play CIC & Scrapstore believes the VCS in Plymouth has been so well supporte d; enabled and encouraged that, she feels, “others must be slightly envious of what Plymouth is doing.”

Learning & Collaboration Part 2 In the midst of the first lockdown, POP+ awarded the second round of funding from its Learning and Collaboration initiative. Four projects received around £5000 each in April.

North Stonehouse had hoped to establish a vibrant gardening, growing & food-sharing cooperative called Street Meets:Street Eats bringing people together through ‘food’. The Friends of Wyndham Square; the community growing project, Seeds ‘n’ Feeds; Sovereign Housing and the Plymouth City Council’s natural infrastructure team had joined forces to nurture the community but as Covid 19 and its restrictions struck so the group had to adapt, abandoning its ‘veg garden’ plan and moving indoors.

“Incredible Edibles” took root in the nearby Talk Shop and, before long, it was clear that it had blossomed.

Many residents took to passing the community Talk Shop as part of their daily exercise; watching the plants grow and shouting Gin Farrow-Jones encouragement in the thick of it through the letterbox! Top community gardener, Gin Farrow-Jones says it helped establish the Talk Shop as a community asset; “The shop window was our community’s green clock, helping time pass in a much needed and tolerably slow way.”

At a time when food security was an issue on everyone’s minds, the project adapted. Rather than growing ‘together’ in collective harmony and sharing meals as a ‘community’; people were now stuck indoors. And so, volunteers left bags of fresh produce on the doorstep of Notre Dame House along with (the lovely idea of) prestamped postcards, so that the recipients could communicate their thanks and feelings. As Gin accepts things were very different, “We’ve made a lot more relationships that we’d anticipated but not had relationships with the key people that we thought we would have had.”

The project has gone back to square one with residents from Notre Dame House planting winter veg in their private garden. Far from a setback, Gin says it’s simply evolved; “There seems to be renewed enthusiasm for growing winter veg outdoors everywhere, but heart-warmingly the residents are eager too, which I take as healthy green shoots of success.”

Positively Diverse Action is all about

collaboration and trust within – and with – different communities in Plymouth. PDA is a long-term project; about taking the time to build the trust to nurture individuals; to enable them to find their own talents and establish connections so that they, in turn, can help others. Ironically, the lockdown enabled a transformation within its own ‘bubble’ with one of its founders, Liliane Uwimana, from Plymouth City of Sanctuary.

Liliane, for whom English is not her first language, is living proof that the project is working: “This collaboration has allowed people to be comfortable in their skin to be able to come forward and share what they know; their potential and their skills.”

PDA’s plan is that - through intercultural collaboration - communities and individuals will start to explore the next steps of being part of conversations and decision-making within the city. The collaboration consists of Plymouth City of Sanctuary; Skyspace CIC; Diversity Business Incubator and PTown Radio.

Precious Plastics Plymouth & Tavistock Project went public during

lockdown and set up shop outside the Scrapstore on Union Street as part of the Plymouth Art Weekender. Dr Dot - aka founder member Kate Crawfurd – explains what happened when she revealed her ‘world of plastic’ nonsense;

“Maybe it was the hats, maybe the shredder, maybe the banner, anyway it was very engaging! We had a gentle flow of passers-by, no crowds, all very well-distanced. People were drawn in and we had many interesting and fruitful conversations around plastics, waste, recycling and the environment.”

And PPT&T is going to have its own home soon, moving into the Royal William Yard as part of RIO’s amazing “start something’ initiative. As Dr. Dot says things are quite lively; “We have been busy with POP’s AGM and festival week, learning exciting ways to connect. POP+ and RIO are brilliant coordinators, channelling the energy which could easily fizzle out if people and organisations don’t connect. We have started making connections through another POP+ project brief, which is generating new ideas and even more energy.”

You can find out more about Precious Plastics Plymouth & Tavistock at www.katecrawfurd.co.uk/ppp

December 2020 15

@PlymChronicle

New future for The Dome A company with a strong track record in running successful pubs and restaurants in the Westcountry will be the future leaseholder and operator of the Dome on Plymouth’s waterfront.

Plymouth City Council has agreed Heads of Terms for the long leasehold interest to rebrand and refurbish the building to bring it back to beneficial use.

There were five bids altogether as part of the informal tender and all parties were asked to demonstrate sufficient funding to support their offer, to outline the economic viability of their scheme as well as expertise and experience to realise their ambitions.

James Watt, head of Land and Property at Plymouth City Council, said: “We commissioned JLL to carry out the assessment and to put forward a recommendation to us.

Having examined all the offers, we believe the proposal we have chosen to progress is the most viable scheme that will see this key waterfront building back to

full use in the very near future.

“The successful party have considerable experience in the hospitality industry running award-winning venues throughout the South West, which shows they have a formula for success.

“They have great plans for the building which will include a bar and theatre kitchen to be open by next Easter, combined with an indoor play area on the ground floor in the longer term.”

Speaking on behalf of JLL, Michael Easton added: “This has been a thorough process in order to choose the best placed party to undertake such a significant site and turn it into something that will compliment both The Hoe and the seascape of Plymouth Sound.

“The Dome is a superb venue in waiting and we look forward to seeing the investment and reopening in due course.”

The council is now progressing the legal work to complete the transaction and hope to make a further announcement in the near future.

...and the Millennium gets a big nudge!

Nudge Community Builders have bought the landmark Millennium building on Union Street in partnership with Eat Work Art. It is the fourth building that Nudge will bring into use in response to the local community asking for something to be done about the empty buildings along the street.

The building has been standing empty for 15 years. Built in 1931 as The Gaumont Palace it’s been a dance hall, roller disco and much loved nightclub. At one stage religious broadcaster God TV acquired the lease intending to convert it into a prayer centre.

Hannah Sloggett, co-director of Nudge said: “We bought the building because it is too important to our community to be standing empty. Taking on a major building on the street was always part of our plan, it has taken a long time with lots of twists and turns. We are nervous and excited about giving this building a nudge!”

Fellow co-director Wendy Hart added: “As local residents we now really understand what it takes to get some of these tricky buildings into use. Our community are at the heart of everything we do and their support and skills have got us to where we are now. We can’t do it on our own, collaboration and creativity is key to getting this building contributing back to our economy and community.

“We were able to buy the building with the support of the Rank Foundation and independent trust Power to Change. Both funders have been supporting social enterprises and community businesses to thrive in the city thanks to the ongoing work of Plymouth Social Enterprise Network.

Natasha Ley, media manager at Power to Change, said: “The transfer of The Millennium into community hands is a pivotal moment for Plymouth ‘s Union Street. In the hands of the community, there’s significant opportunity to turn the tide on the years of neglect and decline.

“Local people can now repurpose this landmark building to deliver the services they need, whilst retaining the wealth it generates in the local economy. This localism will bring greater stability to Union Street and

help deliver wider regeneration.”

Phil Davies, the Rank Foundation ‘s associate dDirector for Plymouth commented: “Rank has close historical ties to the Millenium building, dating back to the early 1940s when Rank acquired Gaumont cinemas of which Plymouth‘s Gaumont Palace was one, before it became the Top Rank Entertainment Centre in the 1960s.

“Indeed, it was the wealth from Rank‘s film companies which has enabled the Foundation to make charitable grants for over 60 years.

But Rank ‘s financial support for Nudge Community Builders isn’t about the past; it is firmly rooted in an optimistic view of the future - one in which the continued regeneration of buildings in Union Street supports community cohesion, helps to deliver better community activities and services, and in so doing helps to reverse both social and economic decline.

“Nudge ‘s successful redevelopment of ‘The Clipper’ and ‘The Plot’ should give us all confidence that the Millenium building can

be brought back to life as a wonderful asset for the community.”

Hannah added: “Nudge and Eat Work Art take a similar approach to breathing life back into buildings.

“We will be making it safe to open up spaces for use, we will work with others to test out uses, and then build up to investing in what is needed to get the building back into long term sustainable use.

There could also be an opportunity for the development to contribute to the identified needs for a medium sized venue for music in the city.

Over the next 12 months Nudge will discuss and collaborate with people in the city to determine what would work best.

Nudge will be running a community share offer next year to give local people the opportunity to invest in the project and play a part in making Union Street a street the whole world loves.

Support for city’s most vulnerable during new lockdown Plymouth City Council has been helping some of city’s most vulnerable residents through the November coronavirus lockdown.

People deemed as clinically extremely vulnerable to COVID-19 were advised to reduce their contact with other people and only go out for exercise and medical appointments in the latest lockdown. This group of people includes some already seriously ill people as well as those living with a disability or ongoing medical conditions.

Caring for Plymouth, the partnership between the council, Livewell Southwest and a large number of voluntary and community sector organisations, provide a vital lifeline for people who are clinically extremely vulnerable to COVID-19. The service previously ran between March and July.

Services focussed on people who do not have established support networks so that they could access emotional support, access to food, medicine collection and support with paying bills and accessing money. Staff providing the service will have had background checks to provide added piece of mind.

Councillor Kate Taylor, Cabinet member for Health and Adult Social Care, said: “Yet again, I’m humbled to see the council-led Caring for Plymouth

initiative lead by example in caring for the city’s most vulnerable.

“Of course, we hoped we’d never have to stand up the service again but for me, it’s testament that in just a few short days, we are as a partnership able to set everything up and be ready to help those in need.

“Once again, a massive thank you to all of the partners involved in this mammoth undertaking.”

Ian Lightley, head of Integrated Community Services at Livewell Southwest which provides integrated health and adult social care services in Plymouth, added: “Here at Livewell, we’re proud to be joining the council on the Caring for Plymouth initiative.

“Earlier in the year, we provided a lifeline to people when they needed it the most and we’re delighted to be a part of providing that service again.”

While work to contact people has already begun, anyone who is clinically vulnerable and needs help, should contact the council immediately. Staff will be ready and waiting to take calls on 01752 668000 between 9am and 5pm from Monday to Friday.

Alternatively, a full list of Caring for Plymouth partners and services can be found on the Plymouth Online Directory at www. plymouthonlinedirectory.com/covid19/caringforplymouth

16 December 2020

16 December 2020

@PlymChronicle

Magnificent make over for Ford’s mural

Left: The finished mural. Above: Artists busy at work on the mural.

Right: Members of the LOCI artists collective who worked on the mural

A mural at a popular park in Ford has been given a brilliant make over.

The mural at the park in St Levan Road was originally painted 10 years ago and was showing clear signs of wear.

It all started in August last year, when Hannah Pooley, the Mayflower Trails engagement officer of Plymouth City Council, contacted St Levan Park Neighbourhood Watch to enquire about the mural.

A project named ‘Plymouth Trails’ had been set up to create murals in three places around Plymouth. The project was the brainchild of Dr Jody Patterson, who at the time was associate Professor of Art History at the University of Plymouth and LOCI, a Plymouth based ‘artist collective’ specialising in exterior and interior murals, with a focus on community collaboration.

LOCI started in 2017 and are responsible for many other murals around Plymouth.

The money to pay for the three murals came from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, via the

‘Plymouth Trails’ project. They then commissioned LOCI to deliver the murals.

Hannah Pooley arranged for a community consultation to take place by the mural wall in October 2019. Local residents and local groups were informed of the meeting as well as local councillors.

LOCI had produced a paper example of the type of mural they had in mind. Those who attended the consultation were asked questions about the park, its history and what local people would like to see on the mural. In this way LOCI gained information about the area around the park as well as the park itself. The result was a new version of the mural which formed the basis of a second consultation which took place in the park in August this year.

The finished mural was not meant to be anything like a photograph of the park, past or present - instead, with a bright variation of colour and free use of expression, it has made a vivid

distinctive addition to the park. Some parts are a mixture of the abstract and actual park features, which can be open to interpretation. The magazine pages could be taken to represent the newsletter of St Levan Park Neighbourhood Watch.

Some parts of the mural do reflect the history of the park and the local area in various ways, from times long ago up to the modern day. For example a creek used to run, in almost a straight line, from the River Tamar through the park up to Wolseley Road. The creek could have been there 400 years ago, at the time of the Mayflower’s voyage to America.

A map dated 1892 shows that by that date part of the creek had been filled in. With this information, the creek can be seen as the bold blue line on the mural, emphasised by the sailboat.

The members of LOCI who designed and painted the mural were: Manny Pearce, Llyr Davies and Joe Allen. Helpers known to LOCI and a few members

of St Levan Park Neighbourhood Watch painted some parts, as did Hannah Pooley.

In addition, Hannah held the attention of two groups of primary schoolchildren who were brought to the park to see the mural as it was taking shape. Local residents and children came along and were encouraged to paint parts as well.

It took over a week to complete with the sealing coat applied on October 19.

This is the third and final mural for the ‘Plymouth Trails’ project. The other two are located in Leigham and the Barbican.

For more information about the project and Plymouth Trails visit: www.visitplymouth.co.uk/ trails. Check out other LOCI murals at www. locicollective.com and other websites.

Help to feed a family in Plymouth at Christmas A community initiative will help families in Plymouth struggling with food poverty this Christmas.

Plymouth Feed a Family at Christmas is a community organisation creating hampers filled with everything a family needs to create Christmas dinner.

The plan is to create both fresh and ambient hampers to ensure that even those without an oven or hob will be able to have a special dinner for Christmas Day. Volunteers will be collecting donations from December 2 once the current lockdown is lifted.

The project was the brainchild of Emma Jones from Belliver who with a few friends last year created 10 hampers for those in need.

This year Emma decided to do the same thing with an initial idea of creating 25 hampers. The response from the public and local businesses was outstanding and it quickly became apparent that they would receive enough donations to create at least 100 hampers and possibly more.

With food poverty rising 220% across the city since March, there is growing support for the community to come together and support those in need.

Emma has brought together a team of 10 passionate and motivated volunteer administrators who have been busying themselves collecting donations and organising raffle prizes for a forthcoming raffle to raise funds for the hampers.

Hundreds of people have donated and set up drop off points in their area of the city allowing donations to be collated and making helping accessible.

Anyone wanting to donate or collect donations, can get in touch with the group and they will then connect them with local volunteers.

Emma said: “We have had an outstanding outpouring of support from local businesses offering donations and help with deliveries closer to Christmas.

“We are so humbled and blown away by how amazing Plymouth has been in supporting this project and we are really excited about how much of an impact we can make to those in need.”

Organisations supporting the initiative include the Co-op, Morrison’s, Tesco, Andy’s Butchers, Veg Box Fresh, Eddies Eggs and Potatoes, Ross Elsey Construction, Almuth Design+Print, Embroider Me and many more.

People interested in getting involved please should visit the Facebook page Plymouth Feed a Family at Christmas, Instagram @plymouthfeedafamily or via email Plymouthfeedafamily@gmail.com.

It includes a full list of what is currently needed, as well as ways to contact the group to offer help in any other way such as delivery.

All of the volunteers who are collecting donations are wearing appropriate PPE and maintaining social distance; drop-offs can be contactless upon request. However, they are asking that all donations are kept until December 2 to reduce any non essential travel for the team.

Supermarket’s healthy offer Tesco is expanding its food donation programme to help Plymouth families eat more fresh fruit and vegetables over the winter.

From November 16, the supermarket will give any local families who use the weekly Healthy Start vouchers a £1 coupon to spend on fresh and frozen fruit and vegetables. Every time a customer hands over their vouchers at the checkout, they will automatically receive the money-off coupon to redeem off their next shop.

Marcus Rashford’s Child Poverty Task Force, of which Tesco is a member, is currently pressing the government to increase the value of the Healthy Start vouchers to £4.25 per week (from £3.10).

Healthy Start is a government scheme to improve the health of low-income pregnant women and families on benefits and tax credits.

Under the scheme, eligible families are provided with vouchers every week to spend on milk, fresh, frozen, and tinned fruit and vegetables, fresh, dried, and tinned pulses, and infant formula milk.

In addition to funding the £1 coupon, Tesco

is donating an additional £4million of food to FareShare to support it through the current period of record demand. Combined with its regular food donations through its Community Food Connection scheme, Tesco has made food donations worth more than £60million in the last year. Earlier this year, the supermarket provided £15million of food to FareShare and the Trussell Trust to support those who needed help at the start of the pandemic.

Jason Tarry, Tesco chief executive, said: “Right now, many families are facing hardship as a result of the pandemic, and we want to help by providing nutritious food to those who need it. In addition to topping up the Healthy Start vouchers by £1 each week, we’re providing an extra £4million of food to FareShare in the run up to Christmas, on top of our regular monthly food donations, to support food banks and community groups with vital supplies at a time when so many people are relying on them.”

For information and to check eligibility for Healthy Start vouchers go to www.healthystart.nhs. uk/healthy-start-vouchers/

December 2020 17

@PlymChronicle

Key role for Plymouth’s tourism chief One of Plymouth’s top tourism chiefs is taking a leading role in a national network of industry professionals.

Amanda Lumley, executive director of Destination Plymouth, has been named as President of the Tourism Management Institute (TMI).

Having been a member of the TMI for 11 years, initially as regional representative and more recently as an Executive Board Director, Amanda Lumley takes the elected role as President of the organisation following its annual held last month.

TMI is a network of professionals who promote and develop destinations across the UK, Europe and worldwide, sharing knowledge and expertise, and being a voice for destination management.

It represents the interests of destination management on national bodies and responds to consultations by government, Visit Britain and the Tourism Industry Council among others.

Following her election, Amanda Lumley said: “A key part of my role over the past few years has been to organise regional events for members

and students as well as providing mentoring and support one to one. I work closely with the University of Plymouth’s Business School Tourism and Hospitality Management Team throughout the academic year providing guidance, knowledge and facilitating wider partnership discussions and relationships in the sector.

“I am looking forward to bringing some new ideas to the role and in particular exploring how digital technology can expand our reach into new audiences and working more closely with our University and student cohorts to provide relevant, exciting and most up to date content for our upand-coming tourism managers of the future!

“In addition I think this will be a great platform to give recognition to Plymouth and the wider South West as one of the leading regions for tourism nationally.”

Destination Plymouth is a public-private sector partnership whose role is to increase visitors to the city and surrounding area, grow visitor spend and increase tourism related jobs. The organisation recently launched the 2021-2030

visitor plan for Plymouth, with an aim to continue growing the city’s visitor economy over the next ten years.

Councillor Tudor Evans, leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “Destination Plymouth has achieved so much in the last ten years, dramatically growing our visitor numbers and spend to the benefit of the local economy.

Amanda Lumley has been one of the driving forces behind this and I’m delighted to see her take on this new role, helping to put Plymouth on the map and developing the tourism professionals of the future.”

Adrian Vinken, Chair of Destination Plymouth commented: “Amanda’s appointment is clear recognition of her sector expertise and the reputation she has within the UK tourism industry.

It also reflects well on Plymouth indicating how well, in recent years, our reputation has grown within the national tourism industry. All Destination Plymouth directors congratulate Amanda on her appointment and this terrific personal accolade.”

Amanda Lumley

Research bursary dedicated to former city art curator is relaunched A research bursary established in the memory a long-serving member of Plymouth City Council’s staff has been relaunched and applications are now open.

Maureen Attrill worked at the former Plymouth Museum and Art Gallery for nearly 33 years before her sudden death in February 2011. During that time she made several key acquisitions for the city’s collections and masterminded a number of exhibitions based on hers and other peoples’ research.

Thanks to the generosity of Maureen’s family, The Box Foundation – a charitable organisation

that supports The Box – and the former Friends of Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery, applications are now welcomed for a bursary of up to £1,250 to support a research project linked to The Box’s art collections.

The bursary can be used to fund travel expenses, attendance at conferences, seminars or events, materials, books and childcare costs.

Undergraduates or postgraduates from the University of Plymouth, University of St Mark and St John, Plymouth College of Art, University of Exeter, members of the University of the Third Age and South West-based museum staff, Open University students and freelance researchers are

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particularly encouraged to apply.

The successful applicant will be expected to produce a project summary and a 1,000+ word article on their findings. They will also be offered the opportunity to present their research as part of The Box’s events programme in 2021.

Applications to the Foundation can be made via The Box’s website and will close at midday on December 21. The winner will be announced on February 25 2021.

Deputy Leader, Councillor Peter Smith said: “We’re thrilled to be able to bring this bursary scheme, which was originally launched in 2014, back to life. Maureen firmly believed in the

importance of research and its ability to enhance the public’s enjoyment of and engagement with museum collections. The art collections at The Box are a wonderful source of inspiration with paintings, works on paper, ceramics, sculpture, craft, textiles and more. It will be really interesting to see which topics people show an interest in exploring in more detail.”

More information about The Box’s art collections can be found online at www. theboxplymouth.com/collections and www.artuk. org.

Any enquiries about the bursary scheme can be sent to collections@plymouth.gov.uk

18 December 2020

@PlymChronicle

Funding means patients won’t be left in the dark Emergency volunteer doctors working

to keep people in Devon safe are ready for the winter months after funding has allowed them to purchase specialist head torches to carry out vital, and often lifesaving, procedures.

Eve Vollans

Top award for city teacher

A Plymouth primary school teacher has won a top award in a national competition which promotes reading for pleasure in schools.

Eve Vollans, reading and phonics lead at Mayflower Community Academy in Ham Drive, received the Experienced Teacher Award in the Egmont Reading for Pleasure Teacher Awards.

The Awards, run in association with the Open University and the UK Literacy Association, were launched in 2017 to promote reading for pleasure in schools.

2020 marked the most competitive competition to date with a 66% increase in submissions.

Eve was recognised for her reading initiative called ‘From Beginners to Bookish Bletherers’ aimed at motivating Key Stage 2 boy readers.

Eve wanted to support the boys with reading skills and to give them opportunities to enjoy and discover new texts and ways of reading.

She gave them bespoke reading packages, every Friday the boys arranged a one minute book review session which is posted on Twitter and even included outdoor reading. The boys were keen, enthusiastic, and their reading attainment increased as a result of Eve’s work.

Eve received an individual award, Egmont books to the value of £250 for her school and 20 copies of Help Your Child Love Reading by Alison David.

“We were so impressed with the creative, innovative and entertaining ideas that were demonstrated in the submissions,” said Alison David, consumer insight director at Egmont Books.

“From our research we know how important it is that children read for pleasure. The interesting thing about reading for pleasure is that you can’t teach it! It is not a set of skills to acquire.

Teaching reading is teaching literacy, it’s incredibly important, but not to be confused with helping children establish a lifelong love of reading, simply for the pure joy of it.

“However, reading for pleasure can be shared, modelled, and encouraged. These amazing teachers and schools, with their inspirational research-informed ideas, understand that.”

Teresa Cremin, Professor of Education at the Open University said: “We know that teachers are under immense pressure to deliver results, and can find it challenging to make time within the curriculum for fostering reading for pleasure. But the social, emotional and cognitive benefits of reading for pleasure is unquestionable.”

BASICS Devon, which provides pre-hospital emergency medical care through its network of volunteer emergency doctors, has purchased the equipment after receiving £5,000 from Wales & West Utilities Safe & Warm Fund.

With a network of 14 volunteer doctors responding to medical emergencies across the county, the winter months can be challenging due to the dark nights, so the torches have arrived at just the right time.

Dr Ian Higginson, BASICS Devon Volunteer Immediate Care Doctor, said: “Operating in the dark can be extremely challenging – we have to locate patients and assess the scene before treating them. Having good lighting, which doesn’t run out of charge quickly, and which works well in the cold and the rain, is essential.

“Due to COVID-19 our usual fundraising activity is reduced and so, this support from Wales & West Utilities has been vital.

“Purchasing this sort of kit keeps everyone safer and helps us do our work better. We are really appreciative of the support which has allowed us to buy these torches.”

BASICS doctors are senior decision makers who carry enhanced pain relief, equipment and can undertake specialist surgical procedures at the scene, which can help lessen the chance of longterm disability.

The volunteers work by responding locally across their communities, whilst also helping to reduce the feeling of remoteness for patients and are an additional source of reassurance and

BASICS team member Dr Simon Scott-Hayward with the equipment

expertise for the emergency services.

Ian continued: “Our network of volunteers is growing, and this money will help towards the responder’s support costs.

“It’s also being used for education and training to help doctors keep up to date in all aspects of pre-hospital emergency medicine, whilst also helping them to train others in their local community.

“During this time of COVID-19, this additional local support has never been more valued or relevant. On behalf of the organisation, and those that benefit from BASICS Devon, I’d like to thank Wales & West Utilities for this support.”

Wales & West Utilities chief executive, Graham Edwards, added: “The Safe and Warm Fund was designed to directly help those working in

Innovation award for sailor Sean

Engineering technician Sean Bramwell from Devonport Naval Base has been presented with a prestigious Herbert Lott award for his work carried out during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Sean has been employed in the Refit Support Group since October 2019, working primarily as part of the Marine Engineering team at the Defiance Walk-in-Workshop. During his time he has undertaken a broad range of work, learnt new skills and got to grips with a host of new challenges.

The factory where he works has a 3D printing capability but little formal training had been provided in its use. However, Sean took it on himself to learn the basics of 3D printing and became familiar with plastic manufacturing processes.

This enabled him to work on the production of vital PPE equipment, in this case visor headbands

in collaboration with Babcock.

Workshop staff manned the machines seven days a week and sustained this over a four-week period. Sean’s role proved pivotal in provision of significant oversight throughout, forfeiting his own Easter leave and frequently attending at the weekend. In the early period, the machines were producing as little as six units a day but with greater knowledge, productivity was sustained at 26 units a day and this was key in the ability in providing around 500 visors.

This proved to be by far the greatest input into the scheme which successfully delivered to local NHS outposts and care homes. His input into this process makes him a very worthy recipient of a Herbert Lott Award and cheque for £250.

“Due to the outbreak of COVID I was given the opportunity by my workshop Warrant Officer to develop these new skills and share them amongst

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communities, targeting support at those who need it most. We are delighted that the fund will now support so many organisations across our operating area, who like BASICS Devon, are helping local communities respond to Coronavirus.

“Seeing communities come together to face the challenge of Coronavirus has been fantastic – and everyone at Wales & West Utilities is excited to see these projects come to life and how they will make a positive impact on the lives of people most in need.”

Wales & West Utilities set up the Safe and Warm Fund to help organisations and charities directly respond to the Coronavirus pandemic.

If you would like to make a donation to BASICS Devon or to find out more visit www.basics-devon. org.uk Sean Bramwell... winner of Herbert Lott Award

the wider team; it felt very satisfying that I was empowered to do so and now have the greatest SQEP in my workplace,” said Sean.

“With members of my family employed within the NHS this project was something that was close to my heart and I enjoyed the opportunity to help as many front-line workers as I could, during the shortage of PPE.”

For more information or to apply, contact us:

Phone 01752 225623

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December 2020 19

@PlymChronicle

Hospice care continuing to strengthen response at Derriford Hospital as COVID-19 cases rise

Working across the wards of Derriford Hospital 365 days a year, there’s a team small in number yet dynamic and consistently compassionate in the face of pressure, who swiftly stepped up to help strengthen the hospital’s emergency response when the pandemic hit hard earlier this year.

Now, with the number of COVID-19 patients on the rise locally as well as nationally, the hospitalbased team from local charity St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth is again giving its support to NHS colleagues, fortifying the frontline so that patients who are dying from complications of the virus receive the compassionate end of life care they need.

As part of one big team at the hospital, the hospice staff are not only lending their expertise on the COVID red wards though - just as before, they’re pulling out all the stops to continue their usual work as well, ensuring that right across the hospital patients whose time is running short are as comfortable and at ease as possible.

St Luke’s nurse Julie Ayers explained how St Luke’s stepped up to help the hospital respond in the early months of the pandemic - and how it feels to be back supporting NHS colleagues dealing with the challenge of another influx of COVID-19 patients.

She said: “Ordinarily, our team is involved in looking after up to 40 hospital patients at any one time, ensuring they receive the highest calibre care and giving emotional support to their families, too. While we are a small team, we are also flexible so when the gravity of the COVID-19 situation brought huge extra pressure to bear on the hospital, we were able to adapt quickly as part of its response to dealing with the emergency.

Council extends Test and Trace Support Payment scheme Plymouth City Council is stepping in to help residents who need financial support while self-isolating.

Earlier this year, the council was awarded £77,368 by the government to provide £500, one-off grants to people who could not go to work having been told to stay at home by NHS Test and Trace.

The funding supported 154 applicants, but demand for the scheme has already far outweighed that number, leaving many people who are losing income and experiencing financial hardship as a result of complying with the legal duty to self-isolate when told to by NHS Test and Trace in a very difficult position.

The council has passed an emergency executive decision to add further funding to the pot in Plymouth and extend the scheme until at least January 2021, to give low income households who need to self-isolate a lifeline throughout what is already a stressful time.

Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet member for Housing and Cooperative Development, said: “As expected, there has been a huge demand on this fund; a demand that far outstrips the amount we were given. Now is not the time to run out of this lifeline when we are seeing an increase in the infection rate across the city.

“We are stepping in to bridge the gap caused by insufficient government funding for this discretionary scheme. This means we will continue to help those doing the right thing and self-isolating.”

People who have been instructed to selfisolate, cannot work from home, lose pay as a result and will experience financial hardship, may be eligible for help.

More information on the scheme can be found at www.plymouth.gov.uk/ coronaviruscovid19information

“It was about more than just providing specialist care and advice for patients with complex symptoms caused by the virus. We were also there supporting hospital staff who suddenly needed to have difficult but necessary conversations with patients’ families.

“This was especially hard for colleagues who’d never done it before, in some cases because they’d only very recently qualified as doctors and nurses. We drew on our experience to build their confidence and help them do this with kindness and sensitivity while not shying away from clarity because it’s so important to be open and honest with families in these situations.

“In addition, when inpatient and outpatient

cancer treatment temporarily transferred to nearby Nuffield Hospital, we were there to provide specialist training for staff at the facility, many of whom were completely unused to looking after people with terminal illness because that’s not what their usual work involves. We continued to provide support for them until cancer care returned to UHP NHS Trust in August.”

“When I look back at that time now, which felt so relentless, I also recall how daunting it was, especially in those first few weeks because it was such an unprecedented time and none of us knew what to expect. I felt really anxious at first, especially with so many news reports about healthcare workers dying from COVID-19, but I

think those fears are only natural.

“What’s really helped - and what’s really stood out to me – is the level of support we’ve given each other. It’s been phenomenal, not just in our tightknit St Luke’s team but more widely across the whole hospital. We are really there for each other because we all recognise the importance of what do and at the same time empathise because we’re all juggling our work with the personal challenges everyone is experiencing due to the pandemic.

“We had to adapt the way we worked really quickly because things were changing not just daily but sometimes by the hour. We just got on with it though because that’s what we do. I’ve worked in palliative and end of life care for most of the past 20 years and have been back with the St Luke’s team for the past three – it’s simply where I feel I belong.”

Julie, who is married with two teenage daughters living at home, appreciates the unswerving support her family has given her as she’s continued to deliver vital care for patients week after week.

This time around, she feels she and the team are much better placed to meet the challenges of working on the frontline of hospital care, looking after patients who include those struggling with symptoms of COVID-19.

She said: “I think because of what we’ve already weathered, we know a lot more about what to expect as COVID cases continue to rise, though of course we can never get complacent.

“Despite all the challenges and the emotional toll my work can take, I still love what I do.

Although my role can be very sad at times, it is nevertheless really rewarding as I know I make such a difference to people’s lives.”

Plymouth businesses that have been forced to close due to the national COVID-19 restrictions will now be able to apply for financial support through Plymouth City Council.

£15,000 and £51,000, grants to be £2,000 per 28 days; • For properties with a rateable value of £51,000 or over, grants to be £3,000 per 28 days.

Businesses can apply through the Plymouth City Council website. Certain information will be required to protect against fraudulent claims, including the business rates account numbers.

Sole traders will also be asked to provide their date of birth.

All businesses will also need to supply their bank details as well as an image of their business bank statement or cheque book if this is their first COVID-19 grant from the Council.

A helpline has been set up to offer additional support to businesses applying for the LRSG scheme. This is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm on 01752 308984.

The council is aiming to make all grant payments within ten days of application.

Plymouth has been allocated £5 million for the second discretionary grants scheme, known as the Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG) scheme, and further details about this will be shared shortly.

More information about the business grants, including FAQs, is available at investplymouth. co.uk/business-grants.

St Luke’s nurse Julie Ayers

Grants for businesses closed due to coronavirus The Government’s Local Restrictions Support Grant (LRSG) scheme is available to support businesses that have been legally required to close and occupy a rateable property.

Eligible businesses can claim the following grants, based on their rateable value: • For properties with a rateable value of £15,000 or under, grants to be £1,334 per 28 days; • For properties with a rateable value between

20 December 2020

20 December 2020

@PlymChronicle

Family support is so important now...

THE

By Chris Cole, founder of Cross Rhythms Charity

Experience

We are going through another tough set of circumstances which all of us must endure to some degree or another within this new lockdown due to Coronavirus.

The tension between health and the economy seems to be a reality where, as a nation, we are stuck between a rock and a hard place.

Without a doubt we are all experiencing what seems to be a surreal situation. It was brought home again to me in a small, but nonetheless significant way, as we had our family over on the weekend of the announcement on October 31 and worked through the circumstances of not seeing each other for a month except on Zoom, Skype or Facetime for the foreseeable future.

All of us are looking forward to December 2 with the ‘R’ rate hopefully falling to acceptable levels so that we can all enjoy a respite for Christmas and spend time together.

It has often been said that this season of goodwill can be a difficult time for many, as at times it brings home to some the lack of family support or complexities within family scenarios where relationships have broken down.

However, if Chris Cole this Coronavirus pandemic has taught us anything, it is our common humanity and need of each other. We are created for relationship and community and of course family.

It is in unprecedented times like these that family support is so important, and those without good support structures may need our particular care, empathy and consideration. In my experience the church does a fabulous job behind the scenes in these areas of relational support and I want to encourage everybody who feels vulnerable, especially with the challenge of mental and emotional health issues, to reach out to the church for help.

All of us are experiencing the insecurities of this pandemic, so there is no shame in

seeking help and support.

Let me encourage you with the edition of Lifelines newspaper which is being distributed with the Chronicle as a source of contact and a brilliant read in terms of individuals who have experienced the Power of True Love.

You can even listen to these stories on Cross Rhythms Community radio 96.3 FM as well.

As we read or listen to these stories of hope and transformation let us think of all those who are investing in others.

Once again, our thoughts, prayers and support are focussed on those on the front line of the NHS and staff working in ICUs and as paramedics.

As human beings they also have lives to live and although vocationally motivated like many within society, including church leadership, need to sustain themselves and their families in terms of emotional and mental health challenges and hope.

The true attributes of the genuine meaning of love are courage, self-sacrifice, selflessness and a joy that comes out of loving your neighbour as yourself.

God gives us the power to do this as He heals our broken personal identities and value through what His Son Jesus did on the cross at Easter.

Let’s hope and pray that this period of lockdown will give us all a respite for the Christmas period and that we’ll get a deeper understanding behind this annual celebration of God being born as a human being in a stable at Bethlehem.

It is not about the consumerism, but about hope and goodwill towards all. Stay close to the One Who loves you the most.

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

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22 December 2020

22 December 2020

@PlymChronicle

Green travel grants for local businesses Free health and social care courses Capital grants of up to £25,000 are now available to local businesses for measures that help their staff travel more sustainably to, from and whilst at work.

The grants form part of the Plymouth City Council’s Productive Plymouth Programme for sustainable transport measures. The Workplace Travel Grants Scheme is making £750,000 available to local businesses to boost productivity through investing in infrastructure that helps employees travel sustainably.

The kind of measures that could receive funding include:

• Providing secure cycle parking • Introducing pool bikes • Installing workplace shower facilities • Establishing electric vehicle charging points But the bids aren’t limited to these areas and the council is open to innovative proposals that specifically reflect how the business operates. The council can contribute a maximum of 75 per cent of the scheme costs.

Travelling sustainably means meeting business needs whilst being mindful of the impact on the environment. A sustainable approach has many local benefits including

reduced traffic congestion, improved air quality and healthier lifestyles.

Successful applicants will be supported by the council’s Plymotion at Your Workplace personalised travel planning team to help them get the maximum impact from the grant.

Applications from businesses are now open and full details are available at www. plymouth.gov.uk/workplacetravelgrants.

The closing date for applications for the 2020/21 programme is January 15 2021 and all schemes funded this year must be delivered by mid-March.

Grants to help pupils walk, cycle and scoot to school Plymouth City Council is offering local schools grants to help their students walk, cycle and scoot to school, as part of its Plymotion programme.

Schools are being invited to apply for matchfunding grants of up to £3,000 for innovative schemes that are designed to change the morning and afternoon commute and encourage more trips to be made by sustainable and active travel.

Previous sustainable travel grants have led to over £135,000 being invested in schemes encouraging walking cycling and scooting on the school journey (£90,652.38 of grant funding, matched by a further £45,058.15 from the participating schools).

Successful bidders have included Ernesettle Primary Academy, who built a bike pump track into the hillside of their playground to incentivise pupils to cycle to school and Pennycross Primary, who bought a fleet of bikes and bike accessories, such as trailers and bike-seats, for their Penny Bike scheme.

Councillor Mark Coker, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Infrastructure said “Reducing the number of cars at the school gate has never been more important as we try to maintain social distancing during drop-off and pick-up times. Through these grants, schools can target barriers to active travel and help their whole school community make more healthy, safe and convenient journeys.”

Pennycross teacher Lee Hogden said: “Receiving the grant from Plymouth City Council helped us to further develop an ethos of active travel within our school community.

“We were very lucky to be awarded enough funding to purchase a fleet of top quality bicycles.

These are available for our school community to borrow. The idea was that they would initially be used to inspire active travel to school, but they are proving to also be a successful tool for strengthening family connections.

“Pennycross have gone from strength to strength in our active travel journey and with the help of the grant we were awarded the Modeshift Stars Active Travel School of the Region. I will be applying again for the grant. We have big plans!”

Pennycross Primary School have won a number of awards for their promotion of walking and cycling to school

Schools are being encouraged to be creative with their ideas and consult pupils, families and staff. Schemes should encourage and sustain an increase in the number of cycling, walking and scooter trips, improve the perception of sustainable travel amongst the school community

and reduce carbon emissions.

Applications can be made until February 12 but funding is limited and will be awarded to eligible bids on a first come, first served basis. Full details can be found at www.plymouth.gov.uk/ currentschoolgrants.

Your guide to community events in your area

Demand for health and social care workers continues to grow and in the South West, a £450million boost to help develop a more integrated care system is expected to see the demand for skilled workers increase.

The college’s suite of health and social care distance learning courses is perfect for those thinking of entering this rewarding sector or for those already working in a health or social care role who wish to develop or diversify their skills.

Created by the NCFE (formerly known as the Northern Council for Further Education) these level two certificates are delivered entirely online and can be completed at a time that best suits the individual. Students will be fully supported by a member of the college’s Care curriculum team and will receive a formal qualification on completion.

Claire Jones, academy manager for Healthcare, said: “The health and social care sector offers the prospect of rewarding, lifelong careers. We have a wide range of courses that cover many areas of this vital sector, from supporting tenants in social housing, to caring for people with cancer. We also have courses that would suit those who wish to work in supporting children or the elderly, many of which might be of interest to parents or people caring for elderly relatives.

“Employers of those working in health and social care might also like to take advantage of these free courses that provide quality continued professional development opportunities.”

All of the health and social care distance learning courses are free for those aged 19 and older with no eligibility requirements, and there is no limit on the number of courses a person can complete.

For the full list of courses, visit www.cityplym. ac.uk/free-care-courses or contact the college on 01752 305300 to request more information.

The Box hosts 2020 Maritime UK Awards ceremony The best of the UK’s £46 billion maritime sector have been celebrated at the Maritime UK Awards broadcast from The Box in Plymouth.

Your guide to community events in your area

In view of the current coronavirus lockdown measures we have held over the usual Community Directory listings as most if not all the events/meetings will not be taking place

City College Plymouth is offering a range of distance learning courses in health and social care that are free for anyone aged 19 and over.

Love in a box for orphans A small socially distanced group of Plymouth Soroptimists carefully wrapped and packed 25 shoe boxes with gifts for children in orphanages and children’s hospitals in Moldova. The aim is to bring some festive cheer to children who might otherwise not receive any presents at Christmas.The teddies and Peter Rabbit in the photograph along with many other soft toys, books and games will be given to Plymouth Barnardo’s children’s centres and the Salvation Army for distribution to local children at Christmas. Soroptimist International is an organisation which aims to support, educate, empower and enable women and girls locally, nationally and internationally. For more information about how to join us please visit www.plymsorop.org.uk or call 01752 774401.

The event, hosted by British sailor Dee Caffari, was watched online by thousands of industry professionals. Fittingly, the awards were given out against a backdrop of the museum’s spectacular display of 300 ships’ badges, underneath the collection of Royal Naval figureheads suspended from the ceiling.

Fourteen awards were given out at the second annual ceremony, which celebrates businesses and organisations from the entire spectrum of the sector – from leisure to shipping, professional services to ports and engineering to science and advanced manufacturing.

Held with the support of Plymouth City Council, the awards ceremony moved online this year due to coronavirus restrictions.

The virtual event included contributions from Maritime UK’s patron, HRH The Princess Royal, as well as the Minister for Maritime Robert Courts MP, Secretary of State for Transport Grant Shapps MP, Exports Minister Graham Stuart MP and Shadow Environment Secretary and local Plymouth MP Luke Pollard.

December 2020

@PlymChronicle

23

It’s 25 years of ‘Then & Now’

Historian Chris Robinson has been compiling Then & Now comparison shots for 25 years and in his latest collection he takes his readers on a more extensive tour of Plymouth and its periphery than any of its predecessors in this extremely popular series.

For the author it has been a delight to venture around Plymouth, Stonehouse, Devonport, Torpoint, Saltash, St Budeaux, Tamerton Foliot, Crownhill, Eggbuckland, Lipson, Laira, Plympton, Plymstock, Mount Batten, Jennycliff and Wembury and seek out the locations, although very few proved difficult to the man who knows the city better than most.

Chris said there’s nothing magical to the process but there is something magical about tracing the changes – playing grown up ‘spot the difference,’ recalling what was there in the past, and maybe lamenting, maybe celebrating the fact that nothing lasts forever, and that time has moved on.

In a few instances Chris has used images that he took decades ago as ‘Now’ shots, as ‘Then’ images today, although for the most part the older images date from any time between 1860 and 1980. For some comparisons the changes are more pronounced than others.

The same is also true of a companion volume, the latest in another series, this time the fourth book from local railway expert and enthusiast Bernard Mills.

His previous three Backtracking titles have focussed on lines that are for the most part, no longer with us, but in Backtracking Around Plymouth, Callington, Tavistock North and the SR Main Line to Okehampton, we’re running along lines that are still in use.

Drawing from Bernard’s own magnificent collection, and including many photographs he took himself back in the 1960s, this is an indispensible volume for all rail enthusiasts, especially those familiar with that line.

Emergency Numbers

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

Helplines

Work underway on new ultrafast fibre broadband network in Plymouth and South West Devon Work has started on installing a new ultrafast fibre broadband network that will make it easier for key public services to connect better with residents.

Earlier this year, BT were awarded the contract to install the fibre broadband network across more than 130 buildings in Plymouth and South West Devon. Hospitals, clinics, doctors’ surgeries, schools, youth centres, libraries and council buildings will all benefit from the full fibre network.

Plymouth City Council together with NHS Devon Clinical Commissioning Group, the University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, West Devon Borough Council and South Hams District Council and Delt Shared Services Ltd secured a £2.2 million grant from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport for the subsidised gigabit-capable connection.

BT have now begun surveying the sites ready for the installation to begin later this year. Councillor Jon Taylor was with BT recently visiting Southway Surgery, one of the locations that will benefit from the new faster internet

Bobby Brown from BT Openreach and Cllr Jon Taylor at Southway Surgery

connection. The new faster speeds will help residents and patients to access healthcare services digitally through online video consultations and health checks.

Councillor Taylor said: “Throughout the COVID pandemic, the internet has been a lifeline for many of us, enabling us to continue working, complete school work, find out information or keep in touch with family and friends. Having access to ultrafast broadband not only helps us all to keep connected,

but is vital to enable residents to access more services remotely, from video consultations with GPs to greater use of online teaching for schools.”

Dr Shelagh McCormick, Plymouth GP and chair of NHS Devon Clinical Commissioning Group’s western locality, said: “GP practices in the Plymouth area have been ahead of the game in pioneering the use of online and video consultations in Devon, meaning they are well placed to help local people access vital primary care services

in the current COVID-19 outbreak, and beyond. Faster internet connections at hospitals and GP practices in the city will help us develop digital health services that will improve access, make appointments more convenient and reduce waiting times for local patients.”

BT has committed to significant inward investment to the region’s communications network worth over £22 million over the next few years which will help make the region more attractive to business and create new jobs in the area. It includes developing a new 5G network and a commitment to use that technology to bring cheaper broadband to deprived areas of Plymouth.

The network will also open to the possibility for a range of new smart functions across the city.

The fibre installation programme will continue into next year. The management and oversight of the installation will be carried out by Delt Shared Services on behalf of the partnership. The team is working on a programme to ensure as little disruption on the roads in and around Plymouth, South Hams and West Devon as possible.

Blood donors urged to keep making appointments Plymouth blood donors are being urged to make and keep an appointment to donate this winter as the city’s donor centre remains open as usual.

NHS Blood and Transplant is appealing to blood donors in Plymouth and the surrounding areas to keep donating as normal if they are fit and healthy.

Plymouth Donor Centre remains open with appointments continuing as normal, and

giving blood is classed as essential travel.

Sue Knight, NHS Blood and Transplant area matron for the South West, said: “The situation with COVID-19 has led to many of our donors asking whether the Donor Centre is still open and if they can still donate. We want to be absolutely clear that we are open for business. Your blood helps save and improve lives and Government guidelines say it is okay to come in and

USEFUL NUMBERS

donate. We have lots of measures in place to keep our donors and our staff safe.”

NHS Blood and Transplant needs to build strong blood stocks this winter to help the NHS through a second wave of Covid-19 as well as seasonal pressures.

Call 0300 123 23 23 or visit blood.co.uk to book an appointment to donate. All donors are asked to make appointments or to call ahead rather than walking in.

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

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

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

Entertainment Theatre Royal 01752 267222 Barbican Theatre 01752 267131 Devonport Playhouse 01752 606507 Plymouth Athenaeum Theatre 01752 266079 Plymouth Pavilions 01752 936363 Plymouth Pavilions Ticket Store 03337 727727 Cineworld 03303 33444 Vue Cinema 0345 308 4620 Tourist Information 01752 306330 National Trust Saltram 01752 333500 Plymouth City Museum & Art Gallery 01752 304774 Plymouth Arts Centre 01752 206114

Leisure

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

Weather The Met Office Weathercall

0870 9000100 0870 6004242

If you think your organisation would benefit from being listed in our Useful Numbers guide please e-mail your details to info@cornerstonevision.com or write to: Plymouth Chronicle, 28 Old Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth Tel 01752 225623

Please note that whilst the Publishers have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of telephone numbers in this Directory, and dates in the What’s On section, no responsibility can be accepted for any errors.

24 December 2020

New look for play in city centre The new play area in Plymouth’s Old Town Street has been designed to reflect the natural environment in and around the city, but with fun in mind. Boulders formed on Bodmin Moor will be piled up for children to climb over, along with two slides and a rubber crumb surface to help with safer landings.

There’s a curved seat for parents to enjoy watching children at play and a small performance space is also planned.

Councillor Mark Lowry, Cabinet Member for Finance and City Centre champion said: “We want families to enjoy coming to the city centre. We’re refreshing its look to keep people coming back time and time again.

The new play area is about creating something children can clamber over, to use their imagination on and to be strong enough to withstand whatever the weather and being in a city centre throws at it. You can’t get more robust than granite that has been with us since the Ice Age.” He continued: “We are constantly investing in the city centre and want it to continually attract thousands of shoppers from across Devon and Cornwall as well as local people.

24 December 2020

@PlymChronicle Artist’s impression of new look for St Andrew’s Cross

“We have a really strong offer in Plymouth, with great shops, cafes and restaurants. We’re doing what we can, the retailers are putting everything into their businesses - but we need local people to support them as much as possible. To put it bluntly, if we don’t use it, we’ll lose it.”

The transformation is a collaboration between British Land – who own Drake Circus and the block which houses House of Fraser and Debenhams – and Plymouth City Council.

British Land, has permission to create a number of smaller retail pavilions within this space to entice smaller brands. Plymouth City Council has agreed to fund to the public realm improvements and is keen to ensure the area looks as attractive as possible.

New trees and planting is being planned with the old raised planters taken out and replaced with a series of islands, complete with lush greenery and trees.

Some trees whose growth has been restricted or are not particularly healthy will be going but in their place 27 large new trees including Scots pine, silver birch, pin oak, wild cherry and lime will be planted.

As the new trees will be large, between six and eight metres high when planted, it will add shade

and extend the existing tree cover. They will be planted in deep tree pits connected to a new separate surface water system, which means they will be better irrigated using rain and flood water.

The planting will include native species such as primrose, cowslip, Lady fern, Scalymale fern and Broad Buckler fern, woodrush and campions to create a woodland edge in the heart of the city.

It will include many flowering species that will provide a vital supply of nectar for pollinators such as bees.

Contractors have been on site over the last month to create a new taxi rank on Whimple Street to replace the rank on Old Town Street, removing the current conflict between pedestrians. It means Old Town Street can also be part of the transformation to replace some of the tired and dated street planters.

Plymouth’s city centre is a key part of Resurgam, the city’s economic recovery programme. It is not just the upper end of town due a makeover.

Frankfort Gate and the West End is changing.

The old footbridge was demolished last month creating more space in Frankfort Gate, which is also getting new planters and features.

A plot overlooking nearby Colin Campbell Court has been earmarked for a new walk in health hub.

Free video consultations for 63,000 patients Thousands of Plymouth patients now have free access to remote video consultations at a number of GP surgeries across the city.

NHS patients registered with any of the Waterside Primary Care Network (PCN) GP practices in Plymouth area can download the Push Doctor app for consultations during evenings and at weekends.

It is a key move for the 63,000 patients at the following GP practices: Devonport Health Centre, Peverell Park Surgery, West Hoe Surgery, St Neots Surgery, Stoke Surgery, St Levan Surgery, Adelaide Street Surgery and Plymouth University Medical Centre.

With the COVID-19 second wave building, Push Doctor offers secure, convenient, and flexible access to NHS medical advice at the touch of a button.

Push Doctor, which enables the delivery of online consultations within the NHS, partnered with the eight practices in the area earlier this

year to offer video consultations to patients. The service has now been expanded to offer evening weekday appointments from 6.30pm to 8pm and weekend appointments from 8am to 8pm.

The service is vital for patients looking for convenient and COVID-safe appointments, particularly as increasing cases mean local lockdown rules are quickly changing. It will also lift the burden off local surgeries at an increasingly pressurised time by cutting waiting times, meeting patient demand for flexible appointments, and allowing GP surgeries to continue seeing patients if doctors are forced to selfisolate as a precaution, as we saw during the first wave.

A Waterside PCN representative said: “As new restrictions are being put in place across the country, the patients in Waterside PCN need not worry about accessing healthcare whenever they need it.

“Push Doctor’s service is an extension of our telephone and video consultation service which

we have all been running for some time. This has enabled us to continue to provide patients with a good service during the pandemic, and it allows our patients to receive medical advice and services in a safe and efficient manner over extended hours – evenings and weekends.”

Patients can get started with free NHS video consultations in four easy steps: • Go to www.pushdoctor.co.uk/nhs or download the free Push Doctor app on a mobile device, tablet or laptop • Create an account and select their surgery from the list • Book an appointment at a time, date and location to suit – at home, at work or on the go • At the appointment time, press the ‘start your appointment’ button and enter the virtual waiting room. A doctor will connect with the patient over a video call.

GP practices across the UK have been partnering with Push Doctor since a roll-out in September 2018. The roll-out found that over 70 per cent of patients made same day appointments and nearly 80 per cent of the video consultations did not require a follow up appointment with the surgery.

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Chronicle Plymouth

Decembe

r 2020

COVID UP DATE See inside for news and information from Plymouth City Counc il Pages 2 and 3

Amanda Lumley , chief execut ive of Destination Plymouth, is appointed to top tourism role See page 17

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