Widening Horizons October 2009

horizons widening

Oct 2009

News from around North Tyneside

Age Takes Centre Stage Festival - full details Keeping you informed | www.northtyneside.gov.uk

Work carried out by qualified trading standards staff Supported by: Age Concern North Tyneside Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service

FREE Please note: This service is only for residents of North Tyneside.

No blankets will be accepted for testing after 3.30pm each day.

It is hoped that blankets will be returned by Friday, October 16.

Limited availability. Please bring proof that you are a resident of North Tyneside.

For more details, phone 643 6628.

We aim l eep s u o y p l to he d by e b r u o y safe in EE R F t u o g carryin cks e h c y t e f a s

electric blanket testing for North Tyneside residents Collection points

Monday, September 28:Age Concern North Tyneside – Bradbury Centre, 13 Saville Street West, North Shields.

Tuesday, September 29:Age Concern day centre – Sandringham Court, Blackfriars Way, Longbenton.

Wednesday, September 30:Whitley Bay centre – 62-64 Park View, Whitley Bay.

Thursday, October 1: Cedar Grove day centre – Cedar Grove, Wallsend.

Bring your blanket between 9.30am and noon or 1pm and 3.30pm

horizons widening

October 2009

Welcome to the first issue of Widening Horizons – the magazine for the residents of North Tyneside.

Widening Horizons is the successor to Up Close and we have tried to improve the look and content of the magazine while keeping many of the features you’ve told us you liked.

Our aim is to keep you informed about what the council and its partners are doing to improve life for people in the borough – from recycling to regeneration.

We hope you enjoy the articles in this issue.

Widening Horizons is produced by North Tyneside Council.

Marketing & Communications (3rd floor right) Quadrant The Silverlink North Cobalt Business Park North Tyneside NE27 OBY To discuss news, contact: Steve Forshaw (at the above address) email: steve.forshaw@northtyneside.gov.uk To discuss advertising or distribution, contact: Claire Edge (at the above address) Phone: 643 2111 email: claire.edge@northtyneside.gov.uk

The next issue of Widening Horizons will be distributed from November 16

North Tyneside Council wants to make it easier for you to get hold of the information you may need about the services it provides.We are able to provide our documents in alternative formats including large print and community languages.

Audio tapes are available at libraries. Please call 0191 643 5080.

Inside this issue Mayor’s message

5

What’s on this autumn

8

Proud of our borough

12

From bin to bale

20

Ease EXTRA is here!

23

Coping with the credit crunch

24

Age Takes Centre Stage Festival

29

On the beat

44

North Tyneside Homefinder

48

Playhouse competition

63

Linda Arkley talks about her priorities for North Tyneside.

A guide to what’s happening in the borough, including Xperience09 – a weekend of extreme sports action.

We look at the work of the award-winning Friends of Earsdon Village and their blossoming reputation.

A step-by-step look at what happens to your rubbish when you decide to recycle those bottles and cans.

Find out more about the great new card for young people aged 24 and under.

The Citizens Advice Bureau provides tips on redundancy and dealing with loan sharks.

An eight-page guide to this year’s festival, which is aimed at people over 50.

Find out about some of the various police initiatives taking place across the borough.

Details on the new policy for letting council homes – and how you can join the scheme.

Win tickets to Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat – and a chance to meet the show’s star, Craig Chalmers!

Cover picture: Pupils from Appletree Gardens First School enjoy a day at the Rising Sun Country Park.

See pages 16 and 17.

NTC GRAPHICS 09/09 2510JWO

3

Walking

Taking public transport

Cycling

Car sharing and eco-driving

All make our air fresher To find out more go to Air pollution is bad for our health and our environment.

Vehicle emissions are one of the main causes of air pollution in towns and cities. walk bus cycle metro train car-share eco-drive

Mayor’s message Dear residents

Since the last edition, I have completed my first 100 days as Mayor of North Tyneside. It has been a very busy time but we have already made some significant changes within the council and across the borough.

We have reviewed the plans put in place by the previous administration, closely analysed the financial difficulties we face, and worked with council staff to identify our priorities as we move forward over the next four years and beyond.

I am determined as your Mayor to make North Tyneside a thriving place for all of our residents and businesses. During the election, I spent a lot of time on the doorstep talking to people from all areas of the borough.What you told me has informed my priorities.

The first thing you will notice is that the name of this magazine has changed to Widening Horizons, which reflects the direction in which we intend to take North Tyneside. It is about widening opportunities for everyone, as well as looking outside the borough to attract investment and employment for our residents. As Mayor, I will be working to create opportunities for our borough locally, nationally and internationally.

The priorities I have laid out are based around six themes:

Our families and children

Creating a learning village with more education to employment pathways and

developing those skills employers tell us they need.The learning village will be a beacon of aspiration and opportunity for people across the borough. I want to see greater involvement with sports clubs and voluntary organisations, which have a very important role in the sort of society we want our children to grow up in.We will also be freezing the price of school meals providing valuable support to families in these difficult economic times.

A safer, greener, cleaner North Tyneside

I am committed to making North Tyneside a better place to live and work.

We have installed extra dog waste bins and, in consultation with you, we will be providing even more.We intend to increase and extend recycling opportunities, and I have made a commitment to restore Tynemouth Lake and the borough's parks to their former glory.

Getting more for less

As Mayor, I know it is my job to make sure you get value for money from every pound of your Council Tax.That’s why I will be bringing in a number of measures to make sure that happens, including: Increasing energy efficiency Publishing members' expenses online Stopping the Mayor's newsletter – saving £35,000 which will go towards town centre regeneration projects Paying creditors within 14 days Scrapping bottled water on council premises, in favour of tap water Cutting waste and reducing council newsletters

Backing business

Businesses large and small drive our economy and provide valuable jobs to the people who live in our borough. As Mayor, I am making business support a priority. I am committed to: Providing greater business rate relief

Investing in and marketing our town centres Ensuring free town centre car parking.

Over the coming months and years, you will also see a huge investment in the North Bank of the Tyne – creating many hundreds of new jobs.

Shaping North Tyneside

As Mayor, I know that I work for you – the residents.That is why I am determined to give you a greater say over the decisions that affect your lives.

We will be revitalising Area Forums and increasing improvements to roads and pavements, including public consultation on priority areas.We want to know what you think, so please get involved and let us know by visiting our website and clicking on the ‘contact us’ section.

Regeneration of North Tyneside

We have all had to wait too long to see the much-needed regeneration of our town centres.Whitley Bay, Spanish City and the seafront can once again be a major tourist attraction.

Plans for the regeneration of Wallsend, and the North Bank of the Tyne, are available for you to see on the website at www.northtyneside.gov.uk – just click on the relevant link.

The regeneration of our borough is vital to our future prosperity and I am committed to making it happen.

As you can see, we have laid out ambitious plans that I believe will deliver real benefits for everyone in North Tyneside. I am convinced our plans are achievable and affordable and you can be sure I will be working very hard to make sure that happens.

Thank you.

Linda Arkley

5

swine flu Borough is prepared for

North Tyneside, like most areas of the country, has experienced an outbreak of swine flu.

Pandemic (worldwide) outbreaks like this happen three or four times a century.

In the past, they have followed a pattern of two or three waves of infection, each lasting about four months over a period of two years.

All ready: Diane Hurley, emergency planning advisor for NHS North of Tyne, with a stockpile of swine flu medication.

The disease can become less virulent during successive waves causing fewer people to become ill until it fades into the background.

However, sometimes it becomes more virulent leading to large numbers of people needing support from health and care services.

At the moment, we do not know which course this present outbreak will follow but the council has been busy planning to protect the borough’s most vulnerable residents.

Important numbers

National Pandemic Flu Service 0800 1 513 100 textphone – 0800 1 513 200 www.direct.gov.uk/pandemicflu

6

widening horizons • October 2009

For further information: NHS Direct – 0845 46 47 Swine flu information line – 0800 1 513 513 NHS Choices website: www.nhs.uk

Business as usual

The council’s business continuity plans identify a range of ‘critical activities’ – mainly services concerned with the health and well-being of people in the borough.

The plans detail how the council will continue to support the most vulnerable, even if a severe pandemic flu outbreak causes the absence of large numbers of staff.

In such a situation, staff would be moved from less critical areas to frontline services.

Unfortunately, this would mean services in some areas might be reduced or suspended for a short period so staff can be moved to support those in the greatest need.

The council’s aim is to maintain “business as usual” for all its services whenever possible. Staff would only be moved to support ‘critical activities’ if the situation demanded.

Joint working

By working closely with colleagues in the health service, the council is receiving up-to-date health and hygiene information to help limit the spread of swine flu.

The NHS says the most effective way to do this is to follow its advice in the ‘catch it, bin it, kill it’ leaflets which were delivered to everyone earlier this year.

Good hygiene can help to reduce the transmission of all viruses, including swine flu.This includes:

Covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue if possible.

Disposing of dirty tissues promptly and carefully.

Washing hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the spread of the virus.

Cleaning hard surfaces (such as door handles) frequently, using a normal cleaning product.

Having a thermometer available so you can check your temperature.

If you have elderly or vulnerable neighbours please check on them.They may need your help but be reluctant to ask for it. It is important to do what you can.

Unique number is important

If you think you may have swine flu, the NHS is asking you to contact the National Pandemic Flu Service.

It includes a phoneline (0800 1 513 100); textphone (0800 1 513 200) and dedicated website: www.direct.gov.uk/pandemicflu

If you do have swine flu symptoms, you will be given a unique access number and told where the nearest antiviral collection point is.You should then ask a flu friend – a friend or relative who doesn’t have swine flu – to pick up your antivirals.

The flu friend must show their own ID as well as yours.The authorisation number and ID information will be checked to ensure it matches the information provided when the assessment of symptoms was completed.

Dr Meng Khaw (left), lead emergency planner for NHS North of Tyne, working on behalf of Newcastle PCT, North Tyneside PCT and Northumberland Care Trust, said:“It is important to remember most people who have contracted swine flu recover within a week and do not suffer complications, even without being given antiviral medication.

“Self care can be effective in reducing symptoms for mild cases and people who have symptoms should drink plenty of fluids and use over-the-counter flu remedies as they normally would.”

You should call your GP if:

You have a serious underlying illness.

You are pregnant.

You have a sick child under one year-old.

Your condition suddenly gets much worse.

Your condition is still getting worse after seven days (five days for a child).

Symptoms

The typical symptoms of swine flu are a high temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or above and two symptoms from the following list:

Headache Tiredness Chills Aching muscles Limb or joint pain Diarrhoea or stomach upset Sore throat Runny nose Sneezing Loss of appetite

7

What’s on

in the borough Summer may be over and the nights drawing in but there are still some great events taking place in the borough during October and November.

For some, the highlight will be Xperience09 – a weekend of extreme sports action taking place at the coast in late October.

For others, it’s bound to be the annual Age Takes Centre Stage festival, which includes dozens of special events and taster sessions for people over 50.

A range of organisations, including Age Concern, the Older People’s Forum and the council, have been working hard to make sure this year’s festival is as good as the previous 13!

For full details of the Age Takes Centre Stage programme, which includes events across the borough throughout October, see pages 29 to 36.

There are also two traditional fireworks displays – at The Links and Segedunum.

Date for your diary

Please note: Events may be subject to change 8

widening horizons • October 2009

Christmas Lights switch-on Royal Quays Thursday, November 12

Xperience09

Tynemouth Saturday, October 24 and Sunday October 25

Thousands of extreme sport enthusiasts and spectators are expected to gather at this year’s Xperience09 festival.

The event, now is in its second year, is a weekend of extreme sports action, including surfing, snow sports, BMX and skateboarding.

More than 20,000 people attended last year and it proved a particularly popular draw for teenagers and other young people.

The UKPSA North East Open surfing competition returns to the award-winning Longsands beach and is sure to attract some of the sport's best surfers.

Beaconsfield (adjacent to Blue Reef Aquarium) will play host to a range of snow sports, BMX, skateboarding, urban art and more with live music and special performances.

The board and BMX events will take place in a giant Big Top – so the event can go ahead whatever the weather.

Beatboxing displays will return by popular demand and there will be a chance to learn how to do it in workshops given by the professionals.

There will be opportunities for spectators to join in the sporting action and participate in most elements of the festival, learning from the very best in the business.

The event is free and organised in partnership with extreme sports businesses in the borough who help to deliver elements of the event.

Xperience09 forms part of NewcastleGateshead’s world-class programme of festivals and events developed by culture10.

North Tyneside Fireworks Display The Links,Whitley Bay Sunday, November 1

This year’s display starts at 7pm, small fairground rides and refreshments open from 6pm.

For further information, call 643 7409.

Fireworks Display

Segedunum Roman Fort and Museum Buddle Street,Wallsend Thursday, November 5 Display starts at 6.30pm. For more details, call 236 9347.

Would you like to sing?

The Mouths of the Tyne – North Shields’ very own community choir – is looking for new members.

The choir meets on Tuesday evenings (7.30 to 9.30pm) at the North Shields Baptist Church hall on Howard Street and is ideal for anyone who enjoys singing or just wants to have a try.

No expertise is needed and you don’t have to be able to read music. Fees are £4 per session or £20 for six weeks.

For more details, contact Leanne Robson on 07944 313 100 or email: mouthsofthetyne@hotmail.com

At your local library

North Shields Library is the venue for a series of special events during October. Tickets are available from the library – 200 5424.

An audience with Martin Bell

Wednesday, October 7 Former war reporter and independent MP Martin Bell will be talking about his new book, A Very British Revolution, at 7pm.The book gives his view of the Parliamentary expenses scandal and his manifesto for British politics.This is a great opportunity to meet Martin and ask questions.

National Poetry Day

Thursday, October 8 Celebrate National Poetry Day with North East poets Tom Kelly, Kathleen Kenny and Josephine Scott. Starts at 7pm.

Book launch

Tuesday, October 20 Local author John Charlton launches his new book, Don’t You Hear The H-Bomb’s Thunder?,The book is based on interviews with local people who took part in the Ban the Bomb movement on Tyneside in the 1950s and 60s.

Starts at 2pm.

Murder mystery evening

Thursday, October 22 It’s back by popular demand! Join a team of sleuths to piece together the clues and find out whodunit.

Starts at 7pm.

For more information visit www.xperience-festival.com or call 643 7423.

9

What’s on in the borough

Events at the lighthouse Rockpool Rambles St Mary’s Lighthouse Monday, October 26 (11am),Tuesday, October 27 (2pm) and Wednesday, October 28 (2pm)

The half-term rockpool rambles for children and families are suitable for five year-olds and upwards and last about an hour.They cost £1.50 per person.

For an extra 50p, staff also offer a halfhour warden-led aquarium session, where there will be an opportunity to see some more wildlife not seen on the ramble.

Winter wonders caught on camera

Winning photographs from a competition to find the best winter snaps of North Tyneside are now available as free postcards.

The four limited edition postcards are available from libraries and tourist information centres on a first-come, first-served basis. One set is available per person.

It was a closely fought contest but a judging panel ultimately chose four winners:The Lake in Richardson Dees Park by Anthony Hendon of Wallsend; The North Sea at Tynemouth by Phil Thompson of Cullercoats;Whitley Bay beach by Alison Glennie of Whitley Bay; and Tynemouth Longsands beach by John Stephenson of Whitley Bay.

Coffee and story morning St Mary’s Lighthouse Monday, October 26 (11am to noon)

Enjoy a relaxing morning at the lighthouse with a mug of tea or coffee while the children are entertained with tales and rhymes by our very own storyteller. For children under-five. £2 per child (includes refreshments for one adult). Booking essential.

Seabird Lab St Mary’s Lighthouse Tuesday, October 27 (1 to 3pm)

A must for all junior nature lovers.

Children can learn easy ways to spot and identify the birds, and find out more about their fascinating eating habits, through interactive games, activities and crafts. For over-fives. £3 per child. Booking essential.

Natural craft activity St Mary’s Lighthouse Wednesday, October 28 (1 to 3pm) Get creative and make your own jewellery, lighthouse or sea monster, using natural material found on or around the island. For over-fives. £3 per child. Booking essential.

For more details, or to book, contact the lighthouse on 200 8650 or email: stmaryslighthouse@northtyneside.gov.uk

The next issue of Widening Horizons (published November 16) will carry details of this year’s Winter Snaps competition.

It will also feature our festive guide to events in North Tyneside. If you have a Christmas event taking place in the borough that you would like us to feature, please drop us a line.

Due to our production deadlines, we’ll need the information by Monday, October 12. Send brief details of the event and your contact details so we can get in touch if we require further information.

Please write to Pete Warne, Christmas Events, North Tyneside Council, Quadrant West, Silverlink North, Cobalt Business Park, North Tyneside, NE27 0BY or email: pete.warne@northtyneside.gov.uk

11

Proud of our borough!

Village people: (Above, left to right) Albie Hopkins, Chris Farrance, Colin Gill and Verna MacNaughton with one of the displays.

(Right) Lisle Stephenson and Verna make sure the flowers are looking their best.

12

widening horizons • October 2009

Community spirit

blossoms

Anyone visiting Earsdon during the height of summer can soon spot the residents are proud of their village.

Superb floral displays, colourful hanging baskets and a complete lack of litter are a fitting tribute to the efforts of the local community group – the Friends of Earsdon.

And during the last decade their hard work has been recognised with a hatful of Northumbria in Bloom awards and Britain in Bloom titles.

But this year, the members of the group could be forgiven for being a bit twitchy at spotting a stray weed or a tin can.

For the village has been invited to compete in Britain in Bloom’s Champion of Champions competition, lining up against rivals in Yorkshire and Scotland.

As Widening Horizons went to press, Verna MacNaughton and her colleagues in the Friends of Earsdon were waiting to hear if they had collected another piece of silverware.

“It’s amazing that so many people have helped out and brought with them their own special skills,” said Verna, the chairman of the group.

“Not everyone has green fingers but it hasn’t stopped them from making a difference, such as hitting the streets litter-picking.”

Preparing for the Northumbria in Bloom judging in July and the Britain in Bloom judging in August has provided the Friends of Earsdon with plenty of extra work – not least the task of making sure sufficient plants were in flower for two separate visits by the judges.

Verna’s husband Purvis also has great

pride in the village and its colourful displays.

“The team puts so much effort into keeping the village neat and tidy,” he said.

“But it’s worth it when you walk around and look at what has been achieved. It makes you proud to know you live here.”

Verna became involved 10 years ago, when – recently retired – she tidied up a small patch of land covered in weeds.

“Things seemed to just take off and now here we are!” said Verna.“It’s been absolutely brilliant and brought the whole community together.”

The Friends of Earsdon go to great lengths to carry out their work, including raising money to fund some of their projects.

They are also aware of the village’s roots in mining and farming, building displays around items such as coal tubs and turnip shredders.

The group are quick to pay tribute to the efforts of council staff, who help to keep the village looking good by planting and maintaining flowerbeds, cutting hedges, watering hanging baskets and applying herbicide.

“The council also plays a major part in making Earsdon the beautiful place it is,” said Verna.“The staff do a great job, such as innovative planting and cleaning the streets.”

Paul Cook, North Tyneside’s grounds maintenance manager, said:“What Verna and the Friends of Earsdon do, in conjunction with the work carried out by the council, is fantastic.

“We have an excellent working relationship with the team and each year they excel themselves in making Earsdon such a beautiful place to live.”

The council is sowing the seeds of success across North Tyneside.

Staff have planted around 250,000 summer bedding plants in all four quarters of the borough.

As well as putting flowers under a number of street signs, each area now has a new floral display: A planted bedding display resembling a shield – to mark the end of the Roman Wall at Kings Road,Wallsend.

A new bedding display with a lighthouse theme at Whitley Park in Whitley Bay.

An Easter Island theme for the roundabout at Tynemouth, next the Grand Hotel.

A full facelift, including a large rockery, at the Sandy Lane roundabout in Wideopen.

Cllr Ed Hodson, cabinet member for Environment, said:“From talking to residents, we know keeping the borough clean and green is important.

“I’m delighted the team is working so hard to improve the floral displays in the borough.”

13

active!

Let’s get

It’s about to become even easier to get fit and healthy in North Tyneside.

The council is teaming up with Sport England and local sports clubs to create Sport North Tyneside, an initiative to help residents get involved in a physical activity.

If you represent a local sporting club, group or association, we want to hear from you. Sport North Tyneside will help you recruit new members and offers practical support with coaching, funding and disability sports.

What we need from you is:

Your club contact details.

Details of your sport or activity.

Whether you need to recruit members, if so what age and level.

Training dates and times.

Cost of sessions.

Whether you need volunteers or coaches.

Any recent achievements.

In return, Sport North Tyneside can offer:

Help promoting your club, fundraising events and activities, and recruiting members, coaches and volunteers.

Recognition of achievements and the contribution you make to the local community through the Sport North Tyneside awards.

Advice on training for coaches and volunteers, including the delivery of training for members with disabilities.

Practical support identifying funding opportunities and completing applications.

Planning tools and advice.

Contact community sport network manager Jo Topping on 643 7444 or email jo.topping@northtyneside.gov.uk

The council’s sports development team has received national recognition for the quality of its service.

The team obtained a Quest score of 77 per cent – gaining the status of highly commended – and is the only sports development service in Tyne and Wear to be recognised.

Quest is the UK scheme for sport and leisure organisations and sets out industry standards and good practice.

The sports development team is responsible for sports programmes, coaching courses and physical activities across the borough.

The health and fitness programme at Waves in Whitley Bay has been expanded.

Body Balance classes (a mix of tai chi, yoga and pilates) have been introduced on Mondays (8 to 9pm) and Fridays (noon to 1pm) while Zumba sessions (Latin/Brazilian style dance) take place on Wednesdays (8 to 9pm).

New half-hour abdominal classes are on Mondays (5.30 to 6pm), Fridays (5 to 5.30pm) and Sundays (9.30 to 10am).An early morning yoga class for beginners takes place at 7.30am and an extra body pump, bums and tums, step and pilates class is also being introduced.

For more details, contact Waves on 643 2600.

Fitness classes at Marden Bridge Sports Centre now include pilates (Mondays, 7 to 8pm), salsa-cise (Wednesdays, 7 to 8pm) and circuits (Thursdays, 6 to 7pm).

There is also a new street dance class for eight to 12 year-olds.

(Tuesdays, 6 to 7pm) For more details, contact the sports centre on 643 2929.

14

widening horizons • October 2009

Gardens bloom for our contest Keen gardeners have once again brought a splash of colour to the borough’s streets and gardens in a bid to win a coveted contest.

Allotment holders, community groups, schools and businesses all locked spades in the annual North Tyneside in Bloom competition.

Following judging during July and August, the winners of 16 different categories were announced.

Among them was 71 year-old Audrey Cooper, whose hard work and dedication helped Cheviot Court take the Community Effort category.

“It’s certainly been a labour of love that has cost a fair bit of money,” said Audrey.“But I can’t take all the credit – other residents have helped me along the way.”

Meanwhile, hundreds of people attended this year’s Health and Horticulture Show, which took place over two days at The Parks Sports Centre in North Shields.

As well as displays of home-grown flowers and vegetables, the show also featured a photography competition on a gardening theme.

Visitors could also watch various demonstrations, including floral art and hanging baskets, and tour a number of stalls manned by local community groups.

In Bloom winners

Individual allotment – Red House Farm (main site) Whitley Bay. Allotment site – Terry Johnson, Dudley.

New allotment tenant – Christina Dent and Pat Rodgers, Innisfree West, Longbenton.

Allotment community effort – GAP Project, Springfield Park, Forest Hall.

New garden – Karen Gallon,Wallsend.

Small garden – John Carroll,Wallsend.

Medium garden – Fiona Jackson, Wallsend.

Large garden – Rod and Fiona Bennet, North Shields.

Back/front yard and container/hanging basket – Mr and Mrs Cook, Killingworth.

Community effort – Mrs Audrey Cooper, Cheviot Court,Whitley Bay. Residential care/sheltered accommodation – Heatherfield, Annitsford.

Business Display – Reed, Ryder and Meikle, North Shields.

Pub/hotel – Oaktree Lodge,Whitley Bay. Church grounds – West Moor Methodist Church, Forest Hall.

Conservation/wildlife garden – Miss Eunice Brown, Dudley.

Best school – King Edward’s Primary, North Shields.

15

Having fun By any standard, the Rising Sun Country Park is one of the best in the country.

Whether you go by its extensive facilities, succession of national awards or just the number of satisfied visitors, the 400-acre site is something special.

Run by the council in partnership with the Rising Sun Farm Trust, the park offers an organic farm, a nature reserve, a countryside centre, ponds, woodlands and extensive grassland areas.

And during the summer, the Rising Sun picked up its fifth successive Green Flag award – the national standard for parks and green spaces.

Pupils at Appletree Gardens First School,Whitley Bay, endorsed the park’s award during a fun-filled day that included creating animals out of natural materials, catching butterflies and fishing

. . . naturally!

for creatures such as pond skaters and water scorpions.

Dillon McKenzie, aged seven, said:“I love learning about all the different stuff at the park. My favourite bit is hearing about the creatures and creepy crawlies, and then getting to go hunting for them.”

His classmate Oliver Noble, also aged seven, said:“I’ve been here before and we always do different things – it’s never the same as the last time. One time we built a house out of sticks.We also made magic potions deep inside the woods. It was just like Harry Potter.”

Teacher Tracey Johnson said a trip to the Rising Sun was an ideal way of bringing what the pupils learn at school to life.

“It’s so much better for their learning that they come here and see different insects and trees, and not just read about them in books,” she added.

The park is also home to the House of Objects creative recycling centre, which uses recycled materials to aid learning.

It is used by schools, individuals, children's centres and community groups and gives new value to discarded goods and imperfect or surplus products, reinventing their use and meaning.

Jerry Dronsfield, manager of the Rising Sun, which is situated near to ASDA in Benton, said: "The partnership between the council and the farm trust has enabled the park to continue to grow and develop. It’s a real hub of activity.

“I think we’ve done so well because we offer lots of activities.There are not too many places that give visitors the chance to see animals, buy organic vegetables, walk or cycle the trails and join in with the many organised events.”

The Green Flag Award scheme began in 1996 and is managed by the Civic Trust. It aims to recognise and reward the best green spaces in England and Wales, creating a benchmark of excellence.

To find out more about the Rising Sun, contact 200 7841 or check the council website - www.northtyneside.gov.uk

16

widening horizons • October 2009

Green team: Pupils from Appletree Gardens First School enjoy their day out at the Rising Sun.

Did you know?

The Rising Sun farm produces arable crops, horticulture, and grazing and forage for more than 30 horses.

Organic fruit and vegetables are harvested daily and sold fresh at the farm gate and the countryside centre.

Habitats at the Rising Sun support a number of declining species including grey partridge, bullfinches, skylarks, brown hares, newts and bats.

Horticulture, husbandry and craft skills, including producing fruit, vegetables and honey from beehives, are all taught at the Rising Sun.

Pupils are taught how to grind wheat for flour, then make bread and bake it over an open fire as part of demonstrating the process of getting food ‘from the field to the table.’

For more details, email - risingsun@northtyneside.gov.uk

Wildlife enthusiasts are being invited to help improve and protect habitats in the borough.

Lee Rankin is the recently appointed community wildlife officer for Newcastle and North Tyneside.

He is keen to hear from individuals, community groups or businesses with ideas for creating opportunities for wildlife – whether it’s putting up bat boxes or creating ponds.

For more details, contact Lee on 277 7195 or email: lee.rankin@newcastle.gov.uk

17

horizons widening

’d like n, u o y If atio m r o inf e more ontact th ec m on pleas a e t ring 0.

4 5 foste 2 643 0191

Jack, 10, and Jake, 8, are brothers and they’ve both got bundles of energy! Jack also has autism.

Could you give a little of your time to make a big difference to children like Jack and Jake?

North Tyneside Council urgently needs more short-break and contract carers for children with special needs, to enable their families to take a break from the demands of parenting.

www.northtyneside.gov.uk

The skills you can offer will be carefully matched to the children you care for, and you’ll receive training and support, as well as payment for your time and expenses.

Free car parking Visitors and residents could soon be benefiting from two hours free parking in the borough’s town centre car parks.

The move, on the orders of Mayor Linda Arkley, is the first phase in a package of measures being explored to make North Tyneside’s shopping centres attractive places for shoppers and local businesses.

Adverts have already been displayed in the local press publicising the council’s intention to make a Traffic Regulation Order that will set down the rules for the scheme.

in town centres

The order will relate to all councilowned town centre off-street car parks: In Whitley Bay – the Whitley Road

car park (near the health centre) and Park Road car park (near the library).

In Wallsend - Alexandra Street car park; Coronation Street car park; John Street car park.

In North Shields – Norfolk Street car park.

The car parks will have their ticket machines removed. However, there will be a maximum two-hour stay, with a restriction of no return within four hours.

Pantrini’s in Marine Avenue has put the £5,000 grant – part of the council’s response to helping town centres in the economic downturn - towards a shop front refit.

businesses and good for our towns.

And it is the delivery of a promise I made to the electorate.

“Our town centre businesses offer a friendly, helpful service to shoppers and provide a range of goods and services right on the doorstep of local people.

This two-hour free parking scheme is designed to give people the time they need to come into our towns and enjoy those facilities.”

Subject to no objections being made, the proposals can be introduced. If there are objections, they will be referred to the council’s planning committee to consider.

Mrs Arkley said:“This is a solution that is good for shoppers, good for

The scheme is expected to be in place within three months.

frontages and cut energy bills. A total of £400,000 has been set aside for the scheme and 17 businesses have already submitted applications.

Application forms should be submitted to: Business Grants, Economy and Employment, Quadrant (1st floor), The Silverlink North, Cobalt Business Park, North Tyneside, NE27 0BY.

First in the queue

A well-known Whitley Bay fish and chip shop is one of the first businesses in the borough to benefit from the council’s retail and town centre business grant scheme.

P

To apply for a grant or request further information, please contact 643 6403 or business@northtyneside.gov.uk

Lee Taylor, director of Pantrini's, said: “The council has come up with the goods.The application process was extremely simple and they have provided help and support throughout to ensure a quick and smooth claims procedure.”

The grant scheme, developed by the council’s Retail Centres Task Group, is aimed at helping businesses meet current challenges.

Grants are available, up to a maximum of £5,000 per business, to help improve shop or office

Tasty scheme: Cllr Jon Jo MacNamara, cabinet member for Regeneration, and Karen Carr, of the Economy and Employment team, join staff outside Pantrini’s.

19

What happens when you recycle

1

Since the introduction of wheeled recycling bins, North Tyneside’s recycling rates have reached record levels.

On average, 1,450 tonnes of recyclable waste is collected each month, that’s a 100 per cent increase compared to last year.

We thought you might be interested to know what happens to your recyclable waste after you’ve put it in your bin.

Recycling is collected every fortnight.

Ninety-four per cent of residents are taking part in the recycling scheme. Remember to take tops off plastic bottles and flatten cardboard boxes.

The waste is tipped out of the wagon and then a digger deposits it onto a conveyor belt.

The material goes onto a picking line staffed by up to 20 workers who can sort up to 64 tonnes a day.

4

8

A mechanical sifting process sorts the remaining waste, which includes the removal of drinks cans and food tins using a magnet.

20

widening horizons • October 2009

5

9

The pile of sorted waste is lifted by a machine grabber and dropped into a baling machine.

2

Each month the council carries out 169,000 collections using seven wagons.The vehicles are split bodied so the mixed recyclable waste is kept separate from glass.

6

Each worker has responsibility for removing a particular type of recyclable material – plastic bottles, paper or cardboard. Because glass is kept in a separate compartment on the vehicle, it does not need to be separated and is tipped in a different location at the facility.

3

It is taken to a recycling depot in North Tyneside.

On arrival and departure the wagon is weighed so the amount of recyclable waste it is carrying is known.

7

Once picked off the conveyor belt, material is dropped through a chute to form a huge pile beneath.

10

The bales are taken away to be made into totally new products - newsprint, sheet steel, cardboard packaging, glass and plastic bottles – all ready to be recycled again.

If you have any questions about our recycling service, contact Envirolink on 0845 2000 103 or email: recycle@northtyneside.gov.uk

21

STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD Job vacancy screening

Help with job applications

One-to-one support

Education and training

Interview coaching

Skills matching

0191 200 7198 www.northtyneside.gov.uk

North Tyneside Strategic Partnership

New ease EXTRA has plenty to offer A great new ease card is on the way for young people aged 24 and under in North Tyneside.

ease EXTRA offers combined membership of libraries and leisure facilities, exclusive discounts, proof of age and Nexus concessionary travel (under-17s only).

The card is free if you’re aged under 17 or have priority status, and costs £5 if you’re aged between 17 and 24.

Meanwhile, the ease EXTRA’s PASS hologram ensures the card is recognised as an official proof of age card across the UK.

And if you’re under 17, you can use it to travel at a concessionary rate - 50p per journey, or £1 for an all-day travel ticket - anywhere in Tyne and Wear on the bus or Metro. ease EXTRA will be available from Monday October 26 at all leisure centres plus Dudley, Killingworth and Longbenton libraries.You will need to

A host of organisations will be offering special deals and discounts to ease EXTRA holders, including: Blue Reef Aquarium, Boardskillz, DFDS Seaways Ltd, Leeds Building Society, Lloyds TSB, Louise Aveyard Driving School, Newcastle Eagles, O2, Pizza Hut, Saks and Sands Ladies Leisure Club.

provide photo ID (passport or driving licence) and something that proves you live in the borough, such as a utility bill from your home address.

To make getting a card even easier, it will be available – along with a free gift – at ease EXTRA roadshows visiting secondary schools and colleges in the borough.

For further information about the ease EXTRA card, visit the council website – www.northtyneside.gov.uk

Just like the existing ease card, it also offers discounted rates at the council’s sport and leisure facilities. But you can use it at libraries too, which means you no longer need to carry separate cards.

You don’t have to be a young person to enjoy the benefits of an ease card.

Ease cards, which provide great discounts on a range of activities, are available to adult residents (price £5) and pensioners (price £3). Priority Ease cards are free for residents in receipt of benefits or who fulfil certain criteria.

For more details, or to obtain a card, contact your nearest leisure centre.

23

the credit crunch How to cope with

During the coming months, the Citizens Advice Bureau will be offering advice in Widening Horizons to help you through the effects of the recession.This month, the CAB looks at what happens if you lose your job.

above circumstances apply, it may be the dismissal is unfair. If you think this has happened, you could get compensation and you should get advice.You can get advice from your trade union or from the CAB.

Redundancy means you are sacked because your job is no longer needed.

This can happen if the business goes bust, closes down, moves to another area or has changed the way it does things.

When employers are choosing who to make redundant, they must make the decision in a fair way.They mustn't discriminate against anyone. For example, they aren't allowed to choose you for redundancy because of your age.

What is redundancy

If you're told you are being made redundant but think that none of the

Deciding who to make redundant

Offering you another job

Your employers might offer you another job instead of making you redundant.This other job has got to be

suitable for you and similar to current job and rate of pay. If it is similar, you could lose out on redundancy pay if you turn down a job without a good reason.

Notice of redundancy

When your employer makes you redundant, they must follow certain procedures. For example, they must give you notice of the redundancy.The minimum period of notice is: one week if you have worked for

your employer for one month but less than two years, or two weeks if you have worked for your employer for two whole years; and one additional week for each further whole year's employment up to a maximum of twelve weeks' notice in total.

Your employment contract might say that you must be given more notice than this but it can't be less.

Redundancy pay

Once you've been made redundant, you may have a right to redundancy pay. Your employment contract might say how much redundancy pay you'll

Further help

The Citizens Advice Bureau gives free, confidential, impartial and independent advice on many issues, including employment, benefits and debt.

Advice - 08444 991198 Debt hotline - 270 4485

24

widening horizons • October 2009

Or visit the Citizens Advice Bureau “Advice Guide” website: www.adviceguide.org.uk

get but at the very least you’ll get a set amount of money (as long as you have worked for your employer for at least two years).This is called a statutory redundancy payment.

How much you'll get will depend on how long you've worked for your employer, your income and how old you are.There's a limit on the amount of money you'll get.

Money matters

If you have been made redundant, you might get cash help from the government or the council. For example, you might get Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA), Housing Benefit, Council Tax Benefit, free school meals for your children and help with NHS costs.

You should claim benefits as soon as you can - you can make a claim on your first day of unemployment. A redundancy payment might affect your right to claim benefits.Your pension won't be affected.

You might need advice about any debts you may have and how to budget to avoid future debt.

If you are buying something on credit or have a mortgage, check whether you've got a payment protection insurance policy that will help towards meeting your payment if you are made redundant.

Don’t fall into the loan shark trap

Recent court cases have shone the spotlight on the illegal activities of loan sharks.

In one case, a young mum paid out £88,000 over seven years after borrowing just £500, while in another a man was jailed for five years after charging his victims 2,400 per cent interest on loans.

Police forces across the country are aware of the threats and intimidation used by many illegal moneylenders and are cracking down on their activities.

More than 300 investigations are currently underway with around 100 individuals facing prosecution.

What is a loan shark?

A loan shark is someone who illegally lends money without a credit licence, unlike banks, which do have a licence.

They usually charge expensive and unachievable repayment rates, often targeting some of the most vulnerable people in society.

If you cannot pay them back, they may use violence and intimidation to retrieve the money they are owed.

Am I the victim of a loan shark?

Have you taken, or been offered, money without signing a

credit agreement?

Are your payments always changing?

Do you have no idea how much you owe?

Have you been forced to hand over your bank or benefit books?

Do you live in fear of threats or violence from a lender?

If you have answered yes to any of these, you are probably a victim of a loan shark.

But don’t worry – help is at hand.You can call the Illegal Moneylending Team on 0300 555 2222 in confidence and staff will help you through this difficult time.

25

the riverside New look for

A plan that will guide the future development of the North Bank of the Tyne – delivering a regenerated Wallsend and supporting the economic revival of the riverside – has been unveiled.

The North Bank of the Tyne Strategic Framework Plan will shape the future of the 600-hectare swathe of land, from Walker in Newcastle to Bull Ring Dock in North Shields, over the next 15 to 20 years.

It provides a long-term vision for the rebirth of the waterfront – supporting existing businesses to achieve greater success, bringing underused land back into employment-generating use, delivering a strong heart for Wallsend town centre and making the riverside a place that residents and visitors can enjoy.

including a proposal for a transport interchange.

But it also identifies the use of some specific sites, where new business use could boost the local economy and provide much needed jobs.

Sub-sea technologies, marine renewables and enterprise businesses are encouraged within an industrial riverside corridor along the regeneration area.

The former Swan Hunter site has been designated to support these sectors.

The framework also supports the wider regeneration of Wallsend by identifying potential developments that could contribute to the creation of a vibrant town centre, for example new retail opportunities.

The plan has been influenced by the views of residents and partner organisations, which have been involved in a series of consultation events since last December.

And it will now be used by a partnership including the council, Newcastle City Council, One North East and the Homes and Communities Agency to guide future development in the area.

It aims to help address important issues for local people by identifying the future use of key sites.

The Strategic Framework Plan proposes wider improvements to transportation and infrastructure,

Eye-catching: An artist’s impression of how the waterfront may look in the future.

26

widening horizons • October 2009

But it also identifies sites that should be protected from future development, such as The Green, a historic section of Wallsend.

Parts of the waterfront of the North Bank of the Tyne are earmarked for environmental improvement, in response to the feedback from local communities.

And the framework recognises the hopes of the community to enhance heritage and tourism activities, particularly around Segedunum.

Suggestions put forward by the public have included a new ferry landing point and the use of the marine basin for a ship or boat that could become a major visitor attraction.

The partners will now work with landowners and interested parties to develop proposals to deliver the objectives in the plan.

To inspect the North Bank Strategic Framework Plan, visit the council website at www.northtyneside.gov.uk

Dome update

Restoring Whitley Bay’s famous Dome has required significant detective work.

The council has been working closely with English Heritage to return the local landmark to its historic best – even down to exactly matching the colour of paint.

Specialist conservation architect Chris Baglee, of Spence and Dower, was set the challenge of locating a historic paint consultant to find an exact match to the original creamy white colour – the first of 12 coats applied to the dome over the last 99 years.

The Dome opened in 1910 and at the time was the largest in the UK after St Paul’s Cathedral.

Now that the external structural work has been completed, attention has turned to repairing the copper lantern and recreating other details.

The lantern – made by Ewart and Son Limited of St Pancras, who made the roof for Buckingham Palace – has been repaired and the missing four copper scrolls have been remade to closely match the original design.

A new fibreglass flagpole has already been installed, which incorporates the remains of the original 1910 timber pole within the lantern.The new flagpole is the same height as in 1910 but considerably lighter.

And the copper dancing girls, which originally adorned the towers either side of the main entrance, are currently being cleaned and restored in London.

They will be reinstated at the end of the restoration work.

The next phase of the restoration will be to reinstate the original window and door openings around the building, where evidence of their existence remains.

New proposals for the regeneration of Whitley Bay seafront are due to go on display on September 28, 29 and 30 in the PLAYHOUSE, Whitley Pay. Check the council website – www.northtyneside.gov.uk – for more details.

27

Top marks for students Students across North Tyneside have been celebrating getting top grades in their A-level and GCSE exams.

At A-level, the borough saw an overall pass rate of 99.6 per cent – an increase of 0.6 per cent on last year.

Five of the eight high schools, along with TyneMet College, all reported 100 per cent of students achieving at least one A-level (A to E).

Almost six per cent of students achieved three or more A-levels at grade A.

Meanwhile, 54 per cent of GCSE students achieved five or more A* - C grades, including English and maths.

Oxbridge success: Whitley Bay High students Craig Newbold (left), Rachel Clement and Ben Maunder are off to either Oxford or Cambridge after they all achieved straight A grades.

Drop-in sessions

During October and November, the Families Information Service is holding a series of drop-in sessions across the borough.

The FIS provides advice and information on a range of subjects for parents, carers and young people, including education, training, childcare services and leisure activities.

If you want to find out more about the services available, just call in and talk to one of the information assistants.

The sessions are on: Monday, October 5 – North Shields customer service centre, Unicorn House (9.15 to 11.15am).

Tuesday, October 6 – Lakeside Centre, Killingworth (3 to 5pm)

28

Thursday, October 15 – Shiremoor Library (9.30 to 11.30am)

Thursday, October 15 – Forest Hall Library (2.15 to 4pm)

Thursday, October 22 – Library at the John Willie Sams Centre, Dudley (2 to 3.30pm) Thursday, October 29 – Battle Hill Library (2.15 to 4.15pm)

Tuesday, November 3 – North Shields Central Library (9.30 to 11.30am) Friday, November 6 – Wideopen Library (10.45am to 12.15pm)

Monday, November 16 – Oxford Centre, Longbenton (9.15 to 10.45am)

Monday, November 23 – Wallsend customer services centre, Park Road (9 to 11am)

widening horizons • October 2009

This is an increase of four per cent on 2008 and an improvement for the fourth year running.

Cllr George Westwater, cabinet member for Children,Young People and Learning, said:“These results demonstrate that our young people are working hard and aiming high.”

Please note that sessions may change.

Check the up-to-date details on the council website – www.northtyneside.gov.uk or ring the FIS on 0845 2000 108.

Do you want to work with children and young people?

FIS are staging a special event on Saturday, November 7 (10am to 2pm).

You can find out about training and qualifications, what options are available and talk to people who work with children and young people.

For more details, contact FIS on 0845 2000 108 or email: fis@northtyneside.gov.uk

www.agetakescentrestage.org.uk

te a Comple d at car feedback event for al any festiv e to win c the chan ur prize o £100 in r d aw.

‘

This year’s festival is full of opportunities for people over 50 to try new things, make new friends and enjoy life!

’

‘

You can have a go at new age bowls, learn circus skills or take up salsa dancing during the month-long series of activities and events hosted by local organisations.

’

Age Takes Centre Stage Festival Programme

October 2009

We hope you enjoy the programme for our 14th festival for people over 50 in North Tyneside and invite you to celebrate UK Older People’s Day by joining us on Thursday, October 1st for the Festival Launch and Gala Day at the John Willie Sams Centre in Dudley.

Age Takes Centre Stage Planning Group Local older people’s groups in partnership with North Tyneside Council

Look after yourself and enjoy life!

The NHS North of Tyne Healthy Communities Collaborative (HCC) makes a welcome return to this year’s festival.

NHS staff and local volunteers are working within the community to help people recognise early signs of lung, breast and bowel cancer and, if concerned, to see their GP without delay.

Visit the HCC stand to meet the team, get advice and pick up some information. Test your awareness by trying the quiz – you could be a prize winner!

For more details, call Lesley Davie on 643 2890.

Events to enjoy all month Every Monday – borrow an item from Killingworth Library and get a voucher for a FREE drink in the White Swan Centre’s Cygnet Community Café.

Free. (643 2040).

Every Tuesday: Archery – fancy yourself as the next Robin Hood? Sessions are designed for all abilities and are led by a qualified instructor. £2.50 per one-hour session. 12.30 to1.30pm or 1.30 to 2.30pm at The Parks Sports Centre, North Shields.

Please book. (643 7439).

Every Tuesday: Badminton for Women – join a friendly group of ladies who love to play badminton. From 8 to10pm at John Spence Community High School sports hall, North Shields.

Rackets and shuttles provided. £3, please book. (257 8673).

Every Wednesday: Get Roped In! – take a trip back in time to the playground at a fun skipping class. A qualified instructor will lead the class, which is ideal for beginners. A fantastic way to keep fit!

1.30 to 2.15pm at The Lakeside Centre, Killingworth. £1.50. Please book.

(643 7439).

Every Friday (except October 2): Cycle Ride – a two-hour cycle ride led by qualified bike leaders. Suitable for all abilities. Bikes and cycle helmets are available to borrow but please book if required. Meet at 10am at The Parks Sports Centre. Free. (643 7439).

Visit Segedunum Roman Fort, Baths and Museum and enjoy your local history for £1 with a copy of this programme.

(236 9347).

Get Fit as a Fiddle and meet new friends! If you have not yet tried Age Concern North Tyneside’s Fit as a Fiddle activities, call Charly on 280 8499 for a free voucher and programme of activities or pick them up at the festival launch.

30

widening horizons • October 2009

Festival

Thursday, October 1st – Older People’s Day. Festival launch gala day at the John Willie Sams Centre, Dudley (11am to 3.30pm) with Alex Watson from Tyne Tees TV, Backworth Colliery Band, Going Platinum from the Sage Silver Programme, taster sessions, displays and entertainment.

Free. (280 8498).

Amongst Friends coach outing – to Bowness with boat trip on Lake Windermere. See page 32 for details.

Coffee morning – Forest Hall Library, Whitfield Road, with advice available on benefits and pensions. 10am to noon.

(200 7839).

Mid-life Moves – a one-day introduction to living, learning and working over 50 and the opportunities open to you. 10am to 3.30pm at the Bradbury Centre, 13 Saville Street West, North Shields. Free (including lunch) but please book. (280 8484).

Friday 2nd Coffee morning and display of Old Whitley Bay. From 10am at Whitley Bay Library, Park Road. Free. (200 8500).

I Remember It Well – bring along photographs, memorabilia, clothing, or objects to link a story to your life and the local area. Funny or bittersweet, we invite true stories that have shaped you and your area. Join in with North Tyneside Disability Forum from noon to 2pm at the Shiremoor Centre, Earsdon Road. Free.

(200 8570).

Monday 5th to Friday 11th Enjoy the Rising Sun Restaurant Specials at the Rising Sun Countryside Centre, off Whitley Road, Benton. Subject to availability.

Early Bird Special bacon, sausage or egg sandwich and any hot drink for only £2.95, from 9 to 11.30am.

Afternoon Special - cake or scone with any hot drink for only £2.20, from 2.30 to 4.30pm.

Diary

Age Takes Centre Stage Festival Programme 2009

Monday 5th Introduction to family history – 10am at Central Library, North Shields. Free. Please book.

(200 5424).

Coffee morning – Forest Hall Library,Whitfield Road, with local history display. 10am to noon.

(200 7839).

Beach to beach walk – a two-hour guided walk along the scenic coast of Tynemouth.

Beginning at Tynemouth Priory at 10.30am, the walk will finish at Crusoe’s Café at Longsands.

Free. (643 7439).

Dancer-cise – enjoy getting fitter with dance moves and great music from 2 to 3 pm at Royal Quays Community Centre. Free. (287 7021).

IT (give it a go!) – introductory session for absolute beginners – 2pm at John Willie Sams Centre, Dudley. Free, but please book. (643 2030).

Salsa and merengue – learn these exciting latin dances – 7pm at John Willie Sams Centre, Dudley. Free. (643 2030).

Tuesday 6th Coffee and bingo – Killingworth Library at the White Swan Centre. Eyes down at 10.15am. Free.

(643 2040).

Age Takes Centre Stage Awards

During October, the Age Takes Centre Stage Awards are presented on board DFDS Seaways’ MS King of Scandinavia at Royal Quays. The ceremony celebrates the achievements of individuals and groups and their contribution to the community.

Angels and Demons – relax and enjoy this Festival Senior Screen of the prequel to Dan Brown’s Da Vinci Code, starring Tom Hanks.

10.30am at Odeon Silverlink. £3, including tea or coffee and a biscuit.

(0871 22 44 007).

Coffee morning – Wallsend Library from 10.30am to 12.30pm, with advice on benefits and pensions. Free. (200 6968).

Join Age Takes to the Sea 2009 – for a Taste of Holland from just £87 per person

As well as hosting the Age Takes Centre Stage Awards, DFDS Seaways are offering a special cruise break to Holland as part of the festival.

Sailing from North Shields to Holland at 5pm on Wednesday, October 14 and returning to North Shields at 9am on Friday, October 16. The tour includes an open-air museum, the lovely town of Volendam and the home of Edam cheese.

To book, visit www.dfds.co.uk/age or telephone 0871 882 0887 and quote “Age Takes Centre Stage”.Terms and conditions: Subject to availability. Credit card and telephone booking fees apply.

Visit www.dfds.co.uk/terms for full details.

31

Outings organised by the Amongst Friends Friendship Centres, for Age Takes Centre Stage 2009, with coaches supplied by Chris Cooper Travel Thursday, October 1 Bowness with 45-minute boat trip on Lake Windermere Thursday, October 8 Richmond, Hawes and Aysgarth Falls Thursday, October 15 Whitby via Goathland Thursday, October 22 York Thursday, October 29 Edinburgh

The cost is £11.50 per person for each outing (£18 for Bowness including boat trip).

The coaches pick up at Killingworth,West Allotment, Shiremoor,Whitley Bay, Cullercoats, North Shields,Wallsend and Central Station. Please telephone Chris Cooper Travel for availability on (0191) 421 1894. Once booked, cheques can be sent to Chris Cooper Travel, 8 Spoor Street, Dunston,Tyne & Wear NE11 9BD

Campfire cooking – join the Rising Sun Countryside Centre education staff at the Celtic Village to prepare and cook soup over an open fire, help with a few odd jobs and enjoy an informal ‘get together’. 11am to 1pm at the Rising Sun Countryside Centre, off Whitley Road, Benton. Please wear suitable outdoor clothing. Cost £1.50.

Booking essential. (643 2241).

Dr Bike and cycle safety session – from broken brakes to snapped chains, we can fix it! Even if your bike is in top condition, you can get information and guidance on cycle safety. 1 to 3pm at The Parks Sports Centre. Free. (643 7439).

Tea dance – enjoy an afternoon’s dancing at West Moor Community Centre, Benton Lane from 1.30 to 3.45pm. £1.50, including tea and cake. (216 1005).

Café Re – re-introduce yourself at our relaxed afternoon session with refreshments, music, good company, conversation, music, video, humour and worship from 2 to 3.30pm at Oxford St Methodist Church,Whitley Bay. Free.

(253 1730).

A peek into the past – Shiremoor Library Club invites you to hear about the treasures in Tyne & Wear Archives from Peter Hepplewhite. 2pm at Shiremoor Library, Earsdon Road. Free but please book. (200 6412).

One-to-one computer introduction – 2pm at Central Library, North Shields. Free.

Please book. (200 5424).

Croquet for beginners – Learn to play with help from members of Tynemouth Golf and Croquet Club. From 10am to noon at Tynemouth Cricket Club, Preston Avenue, North Shields. Free but please book. (251 1067).

Wednesday 7th Badminton for all – join a friendly group of social players. Beginners and experienced players welcome. Rackets, shuttles and help provided. 9.30 to 11.30am at The Parks Sports Centre, North Shields. Free. (290 3358).

Mini-golf tournament – whether you’re a complete beginner or a professional, come along and take part in the first Age Takes Centre Stage mini-golf trophy! Meet at 10am at Whitley Bay Mini-golf on The Links. Free. (643 7439 or 643 7448).

Childhood memories – a chance to reminisce from 10 to 11.30am at St John’s Court, Cockburn Terrace, Percy Main. Free.

(287 7021).

Our folk – bring your views and life experiences to combine with music, poetry and song to make a DVD that links our future with our shared heritage. Join in with North Tyneside Disability Forum from noon to 3pm at the Shiremoor Centre, Earsdon Road. Free. (200 8570).

Thursday 8th Cycle ride – a one-hour cycle ride led by qualified bike leaders, suitable for all abilities.

Helmets are available for hire on the day.

Meet at 10am at Age Concern,Whitley Bay Centre, Park Road. Free. (643 7439).

Behind the scenes at Central Library, North Shields – a guided tour at 10am. Free. Please book. (200 5424).

Ten pin bowling challenge – hosted by Amongst Friends. 11am at the XS Superbowl,Whitley Road, Benton. Join in as an individual or bring a team of four along. £3.50 for two games and tea or coffee.

(252 4967).

Amongst Friends coach outing – to Richmond, Hawes and Aysgarth Falls. See panel on left for details.

Tai Chi – suitable for beginners. 2.30 to 3.30pm at Royal Quays Community Centre. Free. (287 7021).

32

widening horizons • October 2009

Tea With Dorothy – an informal social evening to meet other lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender people over 50, from 6 to 8pm. £1. For more information and venue details, call Ann at Age Concern North Tyneside on 287 7014.

Age Takes Centre Stage

Festival Programme 2009

Coffee morning with local history display and reminiscence from 10am at Longbenton Library, the Oxford Centre, West Farm Avenue. Free. (643 2750).

Friday 9th Coffee morning – and display of Old Whitley Bay, from 10am at Whitley Bay Library, Park Road. Free. (200 8500).

Bowl along! – try carpet bowls and new age bowls from 10am to noon at John Willie Sams Centre, Dudley. Free.

(643 2030).

Jazz night – New Orleans-style live band and jacket potato supper with Great Lime Road Community Group, 7 to10pm at West Moor Methodist Church Hall, 79 Great Lime Road, Forest Hall. £5. Please book. (263 1145).

Saturday 10th Behind the Scenes at Central Library – a guided tour at 2pm. Free.

Please book. (200 5424).

Monday 12th Robert Smith – Cullercoats Hero – an illustrated talk by Dorothy Brownlee about the first motor lifeboats on the Tyne and a heroic rescue in 1914. 10.30am at Cullercoats Community Centre, Belle Vue Street. £1 (including tea/coffee).

(280 8498).

Tuesday 13th Wartime costume and memories – at Wideopen Library, Canterbury Way with displays, music and refreshments. From 9am to 1pm and 2 to 7pm. Part of Community Week at the library. Free. (200 7900).

Amongst Friends walk in Northumberland – enjoy a five-mile walk along Druridge Bay. Meet at 9.30am at Cullercoats Methodist Church car park, Broadway. Bring a packed lunch and stout shoes. Car share available. Free. (237 3796).

Create a slide show with music – all you need to know to turn photographs on your computer into a slide show with a soundtrack of your choice. 10am to 12.30pm at Age Concern North Tyneside.

Free but booking essential – call 280 8484.

Last Chance Harvey – enjoy this Festival Senior Screen, featuring Dustin Hoffman in London for his daughter's wedding, meeting a new woman played by Emma Thompson. 10.30am at Odeon Silverlink. £3 including tea or coffee and a biscuit. (0871 22 44 007).

Art in Cullercoats – a one-hour guided walk around Cullercoats, exploring its history, works of art and famous buildings.

Meet 2pm at Cullercoats Watch House, returning for tea afterwards. Free but booking essential. (643 7420 or email jonathan.barrand@northtyneside.gov.uk).

Silver Surfers – try surfing with an expert instructor, all equipment provided, just bring your swimwear and a towel. Meet 2pm on Tynemouth Longsands. £10 per session. Please book with Hurley Tynemouth. (257 5032).

Your past, their heritage – find out how important your memories, photos and memorabilia are for recording our local history for future generations. From 2 to 4pm at Oxford Centre,West Farm Avenue, Longbenton.Volunteers from Remembering the Past, Resourcing the Future will be on hand to scan images and record memories. Free but please book.

(200 6412).

Balliol Opera Showboat Evening – with songs from the shows, 7 to 9.30pm at West Moor Methodist Church, 79 Great Lime Road, Forest Hall. £4. Please book.

(215 9262).

Creating a calendar in Word – create a 12-page monthly calendar with pictures.

Bring along your own digital photographs and create a personalised gift! 10am to 12.30pm at Age Concern North Tyneside.

Booking essential – call 280 8484.

Lunch – at West Moor Community Centre, Benton Lane. A home-cooked 3course meal for just £2 will be served from noon to 1.30pm. (216 1005).

Card making – taster session from 2 to 4pm at John Willie Sams Centre, Dudley.

Free. (643 2030).

Warm up for Winter – plenty of ideas for keeping warm, well and saving money over the coming months, including a free bowl of soup. Call in from 3.30 to 6.00pm at Jarrett’s Coffee Shop, Age Concern North Tyneside, 13 Saville Street West, North Shields. Free. (280 8484).

33

Wed 14th Creating a calendar in Word – create a 12-page monthly calendar with pictures.

Bring along your own digital photographs and create a personalised gift! 10am to 12.30pm at Age Concern North Tyneside.

Booking essential – call 280 8484.

Our Folk - bring your views and life experiences to combine with music, poetry and song to make into a DVD that links our future with our shared heritage. Join in with North Tyneside Disability Forum from noon to 3pm at the Shiremoor Centre, Earsdon Road. Free. (200 8570).

Songs and Stories of Northumbria – a talk by Geoff Hughes plus cream tea with Amongst Friends at 2pm at Cullercoats Methodist Church Hall, Broadway. £1.

(237 3796).

Meals for one – Marjorie Goodchild shows how to make healthy and delicious dishes (raffled during tea/coffee). 2pm at Holy Saviour's Parish Hall, Manor Road, Tynemouth (with Hearing Loop). Hosted

by HoHo (Hard of Hearing Organisation).

Tickets £1. Please book. (252 3807).

Your Past,Their Heritage – find out how important your memories, photos and memorabilia are for recording our local history for generations to come. From 2 to 4pm at John Willie Sams Centre, Market Street, Dudley.Volunteers from Remembering the Past, Resourcing the Future will be on hand to scan images and record memories. Free but please book.

(200 6412).

October 14th to 16th Mini Cruise to Amsterdam – with a Taste of Holland Excursion. See page 31 for details.

Thursday 15th Local History of Tynemouth - facts, snippets and information and a chance to enter a local history quiz. Reminisce over a cup of tea/coffee and biscuits, 10am to noon at Tynemouth Library, Front Street.

Free. (200 5856).

Coffee Morning – at Battle Hill Library, Bewick Drive, with advice on benefits and pensions. 10am to noon. (200 6976).

Coffee Morning – at Monkseaton Library,Woodleigh Road, at 10am. Free.

(200 8538).

Amongst Friends coach outing – to Whitby via Goathland. See page 32 for details.

Pilates – taster session, noon to 1pm at John Willie Sams Centre, Dudley. Free.

(643 2030).

Afternoon of entertainment – with singer and comedian Kenny Daniels, 2pm at the White Swan Centre, Killingworth.

Hosted by the Killingworth Community Consortium.Tickets £1 (include light refreshments) from White Swan Centre reception. (268 4739).

Friday 16th Coffee morning and display of Old Whitley Bay, from 10am at Whitley Bay Library, Park Road. Free. (200 8500).

Coffee Morning – at Forest Hall Library, Whitfield Road, with local history display.

10am to noon. (200 7839).

Walk – with the Dudley Walking Group. Meet at 1pm at the John Willie Sams Centre, for a 2-hour local walk. Please wear suitable shoes and clothes. Free.

(643 2030).

Saturday 17th Festival Tea Dance for Apple Day – come sequence dancing with the Fit as a Fiddle Tea Dancers from 1.30 to 4pm at Cullercoats Community Centre, Belle Vue St. Join in our apple theme.Tickets £2.50 (including afternoon tea) from Age Concern North Tyneside, 13 Saville Street West, North Shields. (280 8484).

Cream tea – enjoy scones and homemade cake with Great Lime Road Community Group, 2.30 to 4.30pm at West Moor Methodist Church Hall, 79 Great Lime Road, Forest Hall. £2. Please book. (263 1145).

Sunday 18th Festival church service – 2.30pm at St Columba’s Church, Northumberland Square, North Shields. Everyone welcome to join a friendly service and stay for refreshments afterwards. (289 1184).

Monday 19th Introduction to family history – 10am at Central Library, North Shields. Free.

Please book. (200 5424).

Coffee morning – at Coast Road Library, 10.30am. Free. (200 5857).

Beetle drive – with West Moor Methodist Church Network, 2 to 4pm at West Moor Methodist Church Hall, 79 Great Lime Road, Forest Hall. £2. Please book. (268 2131).

34

widening horizons • October 2009

Age Takes Centre Stage Festival Programme 2009

Entertainment with Young at Heart – from 2pm at Balliol Centre, Chesters Avenue, Longbenton. Hearing Loop. Free.

(280 8498).

Befriending for beginners – an informal afternoon with some of Age Concern North Tyneside’s volunteer befrienders.Try the quiz, find out about local friendship groups. Drop in from 3 to 5.30pm at Jarrett’s Coffee Shop at the Bradbury Centre, 13 Saville Street West, North Shields. Free. (280 8484).

Salsa and merengue – 7pm at John Willie Sams Centre, Dudley. Free.

(643 2030).

Tuesday 20th Our Ideal Community – intergenerational conference. A day for young and older people to explore issues together. 10am to 2.30pm at the Langdale Centre, Howdon. Free. Booking essential.

(07974 074 344).

Coffee and bingo – at Killingworth Library, the White Swan Centre. Eyes down at 10.15am. Free. (643 2040).

Coffee morning – at Cullercoats Library, St George’s Road at 10.30am. Free.

(200 8537).

Café Re – See October 6 for details.

Wednesday 21st Line Dancing Day – 11am to 3pm with the Howdon Home League at St Paul’s Centre,Willington Quay. £2. (289 1184).

A talk about the British Red Cross – at Tynemouth and North Shields Amongst Friends, 1.30pm at Tynemouth Social Club, Front Street. Steps at this venue. Free. (259 2774).

Thursday 22nd Coffee morning – at Shiremoor Library, Earsdon Road at 10am. Free. (643 2036).

Creative recycling – take part in modelmaking with wood, create colourful collages or try your hand at fabric printing. 10am to noon at the Rising Sun Countryside Centre, off Whitley Road, Benton. £2.50. Booking essential. (643 2241).

Nostalgia Quiz – 10.30am at the John Willie Sams Centre, Dudley. Free.

(643 2030).

Using Tyne & Wear archives – browse North Tyneside documents and learn how to research the history of your community.

10.30am to noon in the Education Room at the Archives, Discovery Museum, Blandford Square, Newcastle. Free but booking essential.

(280 8484).

Nature Walk at the Rising Sun – join us for a two-hour guided walk around the country park. Meet at 10.30am at Rising Sun Countryside Centre, off Benton Road.

Free. (643 7439).

Saturday 24th Silver Circus – North Tyneside Arts invite you to try magical and age-defying circus skills at the Saville Exchange, North Shields. From juggling to stilt-walking, plate-spinning to unicycling. 10am to noon and 1pm to 3pm. Free but booking essential. (643 7090 or email: saville-arts@northtyneside.gov.uk)

Live at Home Concert – singing, dancing and entertainment with Stephen Lee Garden and partner. From 1.30 pm at North Shields Methodist Church Hall, Hawkey’s Lane. Free. Refreshments 50p.

(272 8368).

Amongst Friends coach outing – to York, see page 32 for details.

Pricetag party – a fun evening to find new homes for clothes you bought but never wore and spot great bargains.

(Donations of new or once-worn items or unwanted gifts welcome).

6 to 8pm at Age Concern North Tyneside’s Whitley Bay Centre, Park Road. Entry £1, all items £1. (287 7021).

My Sister’s Keeper – a moving drama about a young family whose daughter has leukaemia, featuring Cameron Diaz. Enjoy this Festival Senior Screen at 10.30am at Odeon Silverlink. £3 including tea/coffee and a biscuit. (0871 22 44 007).

Wallsend Pensioners’ Association social afternoon – Tea dance, bingo, raffle and refreshments, 1 to 4pm at Wallsend Memorial Hall, Station Road.

Tickets £2.50. (262 8761).

Murder mystery evening – join a team of sleuths to piece together the clues and find out who dunnit! 7pm at Central Library, North Shields. £2.

Please book. (200 5424).

Friday 23rd Bowl Along! – try carpet bowls and new age bowls from 10am to noon at John Willie Sams Centre, Dudley. Free.

(643 2030).

35

Age Takes Centre Stage

Festival Programme 2009

Model enthusiasts show – enjoy magnificent models with Great Lime Road Community Group. Drop in, 10am to 3pm at West Moor Methodist Church Hall, 79 Great Lime Road, Forest Hall. £2.

(215 9262).

Sunday 25th Songs of Praise – all your favourite hymns, from 6 to 7pm at West Moor Methodist Church, 79 Great Lime Road, Forest Hall. (215 9262).

Monday 26th Community lunch – with Great Lime Road Community Group.Two-course lunch at noon at West Moor Methodist Church Hall, 79 Great Lime Road, Forest Hall. £2.50. Please book. (215 9262).

Family history – taster session, 2 to 4pm at John Willie Sams Centre, Dudley. Free.

(643 2030).

Tuesday 27th Health & Wellbeing Information Event. Drop in for a wide range of displays, demonstrations, information and health checks between 10am and 2pm at the Linskill Centre, Linskill Terrace, North Shields. Hosted by the Community Health Care Forum. Free, but please book for lunch.Tel 295 4233.

Silver Surfers – see October 13 for details.

Wednesday 28th Stroll in Plessey Woods – enjoy the autumn colours, bring a camera to capture the scene and enter your pictures in a fun photo challenge. Meet 10.15am under the clock at the Haymarket Bus Station or at 11am at Plessey Woods Car Park (280 8484).

Games afternoon – with Howdon Home League. Have a go at new age bowls/kurling, Nintendo Wii and more from 1.30pm at St Paul’s Centre, George St, Willington Quay. £1. (289 1184).

Thursday 29th How to use your camcorder – from filming to editing, including music, voiceover and special effects. Drop in between 10am and noon, 1-3pm at Bradbury Centre, 13 Saville Street West, North Shields. Free.

(257 6818).

Amongst Friends – coach outing to Edinburgh. See page 32 for details.

Spooky coffee morning – enjoy the Halloween theme from 10am to 11.30am at West Moor Community Centre, Benton Lane. Free entry. (216 1005).

Inter-generational crafts and coffee morning – with local history display, from 10am at Longbenton Library, the Oxford Centre,West Farm Avenue. Free.

(643 2750).

Friday 30th Older people’s stakeholder event – discuss the new Older People’s Strategy at the Saville Exchange, North Shields.

10.30am start, lunch included. Free but please book. (643 7940).

Coffee morning – in Howdon Library, Churchill Street, with advice on benefits and pensions. 10am to noon. (643 2070).

Fancy dress carpet bowls – a fun introduction! From 3pm to 5pm at West Moor Community Centre, Benton Lane. £1.

(216 1005).

Motown magic – join us for a night of dancing and fun to celebrate the end of Age Takes Centre Stage. Meet up with friends, try the quiz, enter the raffle. 7 to 11pm at the Lindisfarne Club,West Street, Wallsend.Tickets £5 (including buffet) available from the Lindisfarne Club, or Age Concern North Tyneside, 13 Saville Street West, North Shields. (280 8484).

36

widening horizons • October 2009

Age Takes Centre Stage is North Tyneside’s annual festival for people aged over 50. For more information, including photos from previous years, visit our website: www.agetakescentrestage.org.uk

Ideas and offers for the 2010 festival are warmly invited.

For more details call 280 8498 or email: info@agetakescentrestage.org.uk

The festival is a joint project involving local organisations promoting older people’s issues, in partnership with North Tyneside Council. For more information about any of the organisations, please call: Age Concern North Tyneside (280 8484)

Amongst Friends – Whitley Bay, Tynemouth and North Shields friendship centres (252 4967)

Churches Working Together – Wallsend & North Shields (257 6127)

Community Health Care Forum (295 4233)

North Tyneside Council (643 2030) Older People’s Forum (280 8496)

Published by the Age Takes Centre Stage Planning Group, August 2009

For a large print programme, please call (0191) 280 8498.

Please note: Events may be subject to change.

Warning on illegal bonfires Fly-tippers are being warned they risk a £50,000 fine if they attempt to use Bonfire Night as a cover to dump and burn waste.

Some people see bonfires as an opportunity to get rid of their commercial rubbish but anyone caught fly-tipping will face prosecution.

As part of the award-winning Darker Nights initiative – run in conjunction with the Arson Task Force and Northumbria Police – the council also plans to dismantle any illegal bonfires.

Neighbourhood wardens will remove the material from October 26. Last year, 55 bonfires – or 22 tonnes of waste – were dismantled.

Bonfires built without permission can be dangerous and pose a safety threat to nearby homes and businesses.

In addition, Bonfire Night can create incidents of anti-social behaviour and a real fear of crime, so the Darker Nights project also aims to raise awareness among young people of the dangers of illegal bonfires.

Fireworks displays - see page 9

Don’t fall into fly-tipping trap Residents and businesses are being urged to be on their guard over a waste disposal offer that could leave them thousands of pounds out of pocket.

In several cases, a cold caller or scrap merchant has approached domestic and commercial premises offering to remove waste for around £30.

Many of these individuals have no regard for the environment and the waste has ended up being illegally fly-tipped.

And because there is no proof that the customer asked someone to take the waste away, such as a receipt, it is the customer who risks being prosecuted and fined up to £5,000.

Instead, you can:

Take your waste to the household waste recycling centre on Wallsend Road, North Shields.

Ring Envirolink on 0845 2000 103 to arrange collection (there will be a charge for some items).

Make sure a contractor is a registered waste carrier and ask for their waste carrier number.This can be checked by ringing the Environment Agency on 08708 506 506 or visiting: www.environmentagency.gov.uk/publicregister

If you are suspicious of any firm offering to remove waste, make a note of the vehicle’s registration plate (if it is safe to do so) and contact Envirolink on 0845 2000 103.

37

Primary Care Trusts are the local part of your such as those provided by GPs, district nurses,

Cautious welcome for new hospital would consider approving the development once this had been completed.

NHS North of Tyne has given a cautious welcome to the proposed development of a new emergency care hospital off the A19.

The board agreed further work would take place on a number of issues and it

North Tyneside and Newcastle receive the healthcare they need, NHS North of Tyne carried out a three-month public consultation, ending in late July.

It gave its support to proposals to upgrade North Tyneside and Wansbeck general hospitals and to rebuild community hospitals in Berwick and Haltwhistle.

The package of proposals was developed by Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, which runs general and community hospitals across Northumberland and North Tyneside.

“However, there are a number of matters that need to be resolved or which require further consideration before we would be in a position to approve this development.”

As the commissioning body responsible for making sure that people living in Northumberland,

A report on the outcome of the consultation is available at: www.northoftyne.nhs.uk

Chris Reed, chief executive of NHS North of Tyne, said:“We have given a cautious welcome to the development of a new emergency care hospital.

One to One

The One to One Centre in Brenkley Avenue, Shiremoor offers all aspects of sexual health advice and support.

Friendly and supportive: Specialist nurse Pamela Winn (left) and senior specialist nurse Michele Hook, who will be running the outreach sexual health service.

38

widening horizons • October 2009

NHS and run community healthcare services, health visitors and specialist therapists.

Drop in to quit

People who want to stop smoking can get free support and advice from their local NHS at ‘drop in to quit’ sessions running through September and October.

You will be seen by a trained stop smoking advisor and get any practical products, including gum, patches and medication, that you need.

Where: The Parks Sports Centre, Howdon Road, North Shields When: Every Saturday until October 10 Time: 10.30am to 12.30pm

There is no need to make an appointment, just come along.

For further information and advice about stopping smoking, contact the NHS Newcastle and North Tyneside Stop Smoking Service on 0300 123 9290.

Centre offers advice These include contraception, holistic sexual health services, screening for infections, emergency contraception, chlamydia screening (urine tests), pregnancy decision making, vasectomy service, counselling and a teenage pregnancy support team.

young people will be taking place at Tyne Metropolitan College, the Youth Village and Avon Avenue Youth Centre.

These sessions have been organised to make it as easy as possible for young people to access the services and support they need.”

“During September and October, new sexual health outreach sessions for

Appointments and drop-in services are available. For further information and to find out more about the new community outreach sessions, please telephone (0191) 297 0441.

Dr Helen McIlveen, head of sexual health services at North Tyneside Primary Care Trust, said: “We want people to know this service is their service - it’s confidential, free, open at convenient times and staff are really friendly and supportive.

Opening hours for the One to One Centre are Mondays to Thursdays (9am to 7.30pm), Fridays (9am to 5pm) and Saturdays (10.30am to 1.30pm).

New health centre

A new GP-led health centre has opened in a multi-million pound investment in local health services North of the Tyne.

Located off Battle Hill Drive in North Tyneside, the health centre is open from 8am to 8pm seven days a week and includes a GP practice and walk-in services for minor injuries and illnesses; x- ray; ultrasound; echocardiography (heart tests) and services to help people live healthier lifestyles.

39

Your child, online The internet opens up a world of exciting opportunities for young people but also carries risks, such as being exposed to inappropriate content or being bullied online.

This advice has been provided by North Tyneside’s Local Safeguarding Children Board.The board brings together various organisations, including the council, North Tyneside Primary Care Trust, Northumbria Police and the NSPCC. Together, its role is to make sure every child in North Tyneside can grow up in a safe and secure environment and be offered the right start in life.

40

Here are a few tips to help your child stay safe on the web:

Don’t place a PC with internet access in a child’s bedroom – make sure it’s kept in a communal family space.

Get involved in what your child is doing online – ask them to show you and ask questions.

Don’t be afraid to limit the time your child spends online.

Keep your home PC as secure and up to date as possible – install a virus checker and regularly accept genuine system updates.

Check the sites they access by going into your internet browser history.

Safe social networking Social networking sites such as Facebook,Twitter and MSN are for 13 year-olds and over. If your child is under 13 and has an account, it means they’ve had to falsify their date of birth.

These websites can be great fun but also have their pitfalls.You can help your child protect and respect themselves on social networking sites

widening horizons • October 2009

by making them aware of the following points: Do: Only accept people you know as friends.

Make your profile private, so only those you know and trust can access your information.

Think carefully about what you choose to publish. Don’t publish pictures or comments that could embarrass you or others, or get you into trouble.

Don’t: Use websites to attack other people. Bullying on the Internet is still bullying.

Post too much personal information, such as your mobile phone number and email address.

If you come across a site that looks illegal or inappropriate, or have serious concerns about your child’s online activity, let the Internet Watch Foundation know. Details can be found at www.iwf.org.uk.

You can also contact Northumbria Police on 08456 043 043 for advice on the next steps.

nursery?

Need to find a

Good quality childcare can help you balance work and family life – and give your child a great head start.

That’s why we understand that choosing the right childcare for you and your family is such an important decision.

North Tyneside Council operates its own high quality, Ofsted-inspected nurseries across the borough. Our philosophy is that your child is at the centre of everything we do, and we aim to meet every child’s individual needs, whatever they may be.

Our nurseries provide structured play, developed with parents and experts, to make sure your child can develop their early learning at a pace that’s right for them.

three and four-year-olds (set to increase to 15 hours from September 2010).

Our charges are competitive, and by using council-run childcare services, North Tyneside residents are eligible for an additional discount. You can also claim help with childcare costs through tax credits, childcare vouchers and other initiatives.

Council-run nurseries are based in North Shields,Wallsend, Shiremoor, Wideopen, High Howdon, Killingworth and Battle Hill.

For more information and advice on the range of help available with childcare costs, please call the North Tyneside Families Information Service on 0845 2000 108.

We actively welcome parental involvement and value your contributions in order to help us continually improve our services.

You and your child are always welcome to visit, have a look around and ask as many questions as you like, without obligation.

Staff are checked by the Criminal Records Bureau and well supported through a programme of continuous training and development.

Most council nurseries offer 12.5 hours a week of free learning and care for all

Someone else’s child

Are you caring for someone else’s child? Is the child living with you for more than 28 days?

If the answer is yes, or if your child is living with someone else for more than 28 days, you have a legal duty to tell the council.

We will visit the child to ensure they are fine. If needed, we will provide support to the child, the person looking after them and the child’s parent or guardian.

If you think this applies to you, please contact the council on 643 7979 and a member of staff will talk to you about what happens next.

41

BOOST YOUR POTENTIAL WITH PART-TIME STUDY AT TYNEMET TyneMet College, the first choice for further education in the Borough, offers a broad range of opportunities for learners in North Tyneside looking to undertake part-time qualifications this year.

The college offers a selection of very successful courses, allowing individuals to expand their skills with the flexibility of part-time study to fit around work, family and lifestyle commitments.

needs of learners whether they wish to achieve qualifications to get a step-up in their current job, change careers or learn new skills. The college is currently enrolling for courses in subject areas including Hair and Beauty, Floristry, Art, Catering, Health and Social Care, Childcare, Youth Work, Counselling, Classroom Assistants, Teacher Training, Management, Computing, Health & Safety, Skills for Work and Engineering.

Part-time courses at TyneMet accommodate the varying

By choosing to study at TyneMet, learners gain access

to the full-range of college facilities, such as the first-class libraries, IT suites and a wealth of learner support services. For most people without existing qualifications, full intermediate and advanced courses are absolutely free! College staff can clarify whether fees are payable and what financial support may be available. Adult Learning Grant and Learner Support Funds are designed to provide learners on low incomes with support towards the costs of equipment, clothing, books, travel and childcare.

YOUR FIRST CHOICE NORTH TYNESIDE’S WIDEST RANGE OF PART-TIME QUALIFICATIONS

With flexibility and choice as key, TyneMet is delivering study options to help members of the North Tyneside community develop their career aspirations for a brighter future.

For further information about part-time study options at TyneMet, including Higher Education, please visit www.tynemet.ac.uk or call (0191) 229 5000.

Plasticine celebrations take shape

New Tyne Tunnel

Celebrations will be held in North Shields during October to recognise the creation of Plasticine by its locally-born inventor,William Harbutt.

A number of initiatives have been planned to coincide with International Animation Day on October 28.

They include the installation of seats and bins that have been made to look like moulded Plasticine, erection of an interpretation panel and animation workshops.

The seats and bins – coloured red, yellow, green and blue – are being installed in the town centre along the length of Bedford Street.

An interpretation panel will also display information about the life of Harbutt and the history of Plasticine.

Harbutt, who was born in North Shields in 1844, opened an art school in Bath and invented Plasticine around 1897 as a non-drying modelling clay for use by his students.

Meanwhile, budding animators are being invited to attend a day of workshops, film and stop-motion animation, followed by a big screen showing of the work produced for families and friends.

The workshops will be held at the Saville Exchange, North Shields, on October 28, from 10am to 3pm.

They will be led by leading Tyneside animator Robin Webb and are aimed at nine to 11 year-olds.

Places are free but are strictly limited and must be booked in advance. For more details or to reserve a place, contact Saville Exchange on 643 7090 or email: saville-arts@northtyneside.gov.uk

Site visit: Members of the North Partnering Forum inspect progress at the new Tyne Tunnel.

Forum has guided tour

Representatives from community groups in East Howdon and Willington Quay have seen how work is progressing on the new Tyne Tunnel.

Accompanied by other members of the North Partnering Forum, they were given a guided tour of the north tunnel section and future toll plaza.

The North Partnering Forum was established last year to provide a regular opportunity to discuss issues linked to the building of the new Tyne crossing.

Trevor Jackson, managing director of Tyne Tunnel concessionaire TT2, said: “I’m delighted so many forum members were able to join us on the tour.

“There’s a great deal happening on site at the moment, and sometimes it’s easier to show people how work is progressing rather than trying to put it into words.”

More than a third of the work needed to build the new vehicle tunnel has now been completed.

During the tour, the group descended to the base of the 25 metre deep excavation to gain a unique perspective of the new vehicle tunnel.

Floor slabs have already been poured in places along the tunnel and the group also saw work being carried out before the roof is installed.

Construction of the new tunnel began in October last year and it is due to be completed in December 2010.

You can find out more about the project by visiting: www.newtynecrossing.info or calling in to the weekly meeting at East Howdon Community Centre.

Residents are invited to have their say on the future plans either online or at the drop-in sessions. For more details, contact 262 4451.

43

Northumbria Police

Operation Respect: Police and the council’s safer estates team prepare for another visit.

Respect rolls out across borough

A joint police and council initiative is taking action against nuisance neighbours.

Operation Respect includes earlymorning visits when legal notices are served, Acceptable Behaviour Agreement surgeries and police and council walkabouts.

44

The operation, which is held in a specific area for a week, targets those responsible for anti-social behaviour and aims to reassure residents affected by their actions.

Insp Pam Bridges said:“Operation Respect helps us to tackle crime and disorder by targeting offenders and nuisance neighbours who disrupt the lives of the law-abiding majority.

In July, the operation was held in Forest Hall, Dudley, Seaton Burn, Burradon, Killingworth and Longbenton.

Previous initiatives have taken place in Wallsend,Whitley Bay and North Shields town centre.

“It also supports our Policing Pledge to make sure police patrols take place where and when you say you need them most.”

widening horizons • October 2009

local news Think secure and beat the thieves Now the nights are drawing in, householders are being reminded to ‘think secure’ before leaving their homes or cars unattended – even for a few minutes.

If they find an insecure home, they leave behind a footprint-shaped leaflet as a reminder to the householder that although it was an officer who visited, it could easily have been a burglar.

Opportunist thieves like to take advantage of darker evenings, which can lead to an increase in sneak-in burglaries and car break-ins.

You can foil the thieves by: • Making sure all doors and windows are locked when you go out.

• Telling your neighbours if you are going away for a few days.

• Buying a timer switch, which will turn the lights on when you are out.

• Marking valuables, so they can be returned to you if found after a burglary.

• Reporting any suspicious activity to the police.

Chief Insp Max Black said:“Taking simple precautions, including locking all doors and windows even if leaving your home for only a few minutes, can make a real difference to protecting your property.”

Community support officers on patrol across the borough are also paying extra attention to homes to prevent burglaries.

Reminder: Chief Insp Black with the ‘footprint’ leaflet.

Be safe on Bonfire Night

Parents are being asked to think about their children’s safety in the run up to Halloween and Bonfire Night.

Police are reminding parents that people under 18 are not allowed to buy fireworks and retailers will ask for proof of age if they are unsure about a customer’s age.

Children taking part in ‘trick or treating’ should be accompanied by an adult and advised against going into a stranger’s house.

They should also be reminded that if a householder does not wish to take part, they should respect their wishes and leave the property.

Cannabis farm discovered

Landlords are being urged to make frequent checks of their tenants’ properties for anything out of the ordinary.

The move comes after officers were called to a privately-rented address in Preston Grange and found cannabis plants valued at nearly £300,000.

The plants were in various rooms of the house and the loft and the electricity supply had been tampered with.

Assistant chief constable Paul Beasley said: “We are actively targeting those people who are using their homes for growing large quantities of cannabis.

“In many cases, our officers are acting on information from local people.We are very grateful for this assistance.”

If you have information about drug use, you can contact your local Neighbourhood Policing Team on 03456 043 043 ext 69191 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

45

Residents get a chance to have their say Flying squad: Cllr Barrie and Chief Supt Calvert with neighbourhood officers and the new bikes.

More pedal power Police officers now have more bicycles to use while patrolling the borough.

Extra funding from the North Tyneside Crime and Disorder Reduction and Misuse of Drugs Partnership has bought 18 mountain bikes.

Chief Supt Gary Calvert said:“Officers on mountain bikes are already a familiar sight in North Tyneside and we know they have a proven track record.

“They can cover ground that patrol cars can’t, especially in parkland on the

46

waggonways and around our busier estates.”

The new bikes will be used in Killingworth,Whitley Bay,Wallsend and North Shields to tackle burglaries, disorder and under-age drinking.

Cllr Glynis Barrie, chair of the North Tyneside Crime and Disorder Reduction and Misuse of Drugs Partnership, said officers had found the bikes helped them engage with young people.

“They also provide a high-visibility presence, which means extra reassurance for residents,” she added.

Widening horizons • October 2009

Residents are invited to come along and have their say about policing at Police and Community Together (PACT) meetings being held throughout the borough.

The meetings give residents the opportunity to meet their neighbourhood policing teams and discuss any problems they have in their area.

Chief Insp Max Black said: "We hope residents will feel reassured that their local policing team is taking on board their concerns and looking to tackle these issues.

"It's part of our Policing Pledge to make sure police patrols operate where and when people say they need them most.

“Events like these help us to build up a better picture of where local officers need to spend their time to keep the community safe."

Northumbria Police local news PACT meetings will be held at:

Killingworth area

October 28 – Seaton Burn Community College, Dudley Lane (6 to 7pm).

November 10 – White Swan Centre, Citadel East, Killingworth (6 to 7pm).

December 16 – Oxford Centre, West Farm Avenue, Longbenton (6 to 7pm).

North Shields

October 9 – New York Primary School, Lanark Close, North Shields (5 to 6pm).

November 5 – East Howdon Community Centre, Chatton Street, East Howdon (1 to 2pm).

Be prepared – for a trip to the cells More than 300 cubs and scouts have visited Wallsend police station in recent months.

Scout leader and Northumbria Police Specials Commandant Scott Blackett arranged the trips to give young people a taste of policing.

He said: "The visits have proved very successful and the cubs and scouts have enjoyed taking part.

"They have been able to talk to officers and learn more about what police actually do to help people.They've also

visited the cells and learnt how fingerprints and DNA are taken, which they found very interesting."

The sessions, which take place at Wallsend police station at weekends, support the force's commitment to the Policing Pledge – to help all members of the community get to know who their local neighbourhood policing team is and how to contact them.

Cub or scout groups who would like to arrange a visit should contact Scott Blackett on 03456 043 043 ext 63847.

December 5 – Percy Main Primary School, Nelson Terrace, North Shields (3.45 to 4.45pm).

Wallsend

October 13 – Howdon Park Community Office (The Park House) (10am to noon).

November 16 – Town Hall, Wallsend (4.30 to 6.30pm).

December 3 – High View Residents Association, High Farm (11am to 2pm).

Whitley Bay

October 19 – Windsor Hotel, South Parade,Whitley Bay (7 to 8pm).

November 17 – Scout Hut, Kingsley Avenue,Whitley Bay (7 to 8pm).

December 15 – Scout Hut, Brierdene,Whitley Bay (7 to 8pm).

Fact finding: Young people and leaders from the 6th Whitley Bay Cubs with Commandant Scott Blackett and Special Constable Anthony Kirkbride.

47

North Tyneside

H MEFINDER

Helping you find an affordable home

A new scheme for letting council homes across the borough is being introduced later in the autumn.

The scheme, called North Tyneside Homefinder, is being launched by North Tyneside Homes the council’s housing department.

The new scheme makes it easier for applicants to apply for a home. It is more open and transparent and because people can have a greater say in where they live, it is more likely they will want to take up a tenancy, stay and establish roots.

Under Homefinder, a banding system is replacing the old points-based procedure, which was sometimes difficult to understand.

The new scheme places applicants into one of four bands, based on their level of housing need (urgent to general).

Rather than people applying for housing and housing officers deciding which home to offer, the new system allows applicants to apply directly for available

empty homes that are advertised.

The new system will also advertise homes available with housing associations, not just council properties.

However, there will still be a high demand for housing within the borough as there is only a certain amount of homes available to let, which is reducing under the Right to Buy scheme.

Anyone interested in being considered for a new home must register and be accepted on the scheme before they can apply for housing. Homes will be advertised every week in a variety of ways, including online and the borough’s customer service centres.

Applicants can express their interest in available homes by automated phone, text, in person or online, and by digital TV. An offer is then made to a suitable candidate in the highest band that has waited the longest.

Information will be published about each property that is let but no personal details will be disclosed.

How do I apply?

Anyone who would like to be considered for council housing or a property with a housing association (and private landlords in the future) must fill out a North Tyneside Homefinder application form.

These can be: Downloaded from the council website (and the Homefinder website when the scheme goes live).

Picked up at local customer services centres – Unicorn House, Suez Street, North Shields;White Swan Centre, Citadel East, Killingworth; Park House, Park Road,Wallsend and Victoria Terrace,Whitley Bay.

Requested by calling (0191) 643 7562 / 7565 / 7564 / 7551.

If you would like more information on the scheme, please contact the North Tyneside Homefinder team on the above numbers or email: lucy.easton@northtyneside.gov.uk

48

widening horizons • October 2009

North Tyneside Council is committed to promoting equality, diversity and cohesion and eliminating discrimination.

Along with the widely recognised areas of discrimination (race, gender and gender identity, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation, age), our work also covers less well-known socio-economic factors.

These may include poverty, poor housing, being unable to access jobs or healthcare, or problems linked to caring for others, living independently or not being able to take an active part in the community.

For more information, please contact 643 5608 or email: equalities@northtyneside.gov.uk

Equality,diversity and cohesion

Building strong communities

North Tyneside has been awarded a government grant of more than £100,000 to help new residents integrate better into the community.

Wallsend People's Centre, together with the police, health services and council, will work with residents moving here from overseas.

The money, collected nationally by the government from charges made to new migrants, will fund local information sessions, welcome packs, citizenship training and English lessons.

The council has also secured £33,000 for a project called Getting Involved, to work with small groups such as those

representing people with disability issues or people from black and minority ethnic backgrounds.

Each group will receive training and £1,000 to cover expenses such as hiring meeting rooms, transport and childcare.

This will allow the groups to reach out to those needing their support.

Support for carers

In North Tyneside, around 27,000 people provide care for someone – usually a family member with a physical or mental illness, disability, or drug/alcohol problems.

It is estimated that up to 5,000 of these carers are children and young people, who – as a result – can suffer from low self-esteem, bullying, tiredness and difficulties at school.

It is important these young carers get support and have the same opportunities as other children but many go unidentified.

The Area Children’s Teams work with families to bring together professionals and agencies that can support young carers. They can be contacted on 643 8170.

Carers of all ages often find it useful to talk to someone about how they feel, meet other carers and take part in social events.

North Tyneside Carers’ Centre can be contacted on 200 1111, at enquiries@ntcarers.co.uk, or you can call in to the centre – 3rd floor, YMCA building, Church Way, North Shields.

49

New out-of-hours phone number

What we do with your personal information

There is a new telephone number for people who need to access out-of-hours social care services.

Social Care Direct is now providing these services on behalf of North Tyneside Council.

The freephone telephone number is 0300 123 0812.

Staff at Social Care Direct have been trained and security checked in the same way as people employed by the council.

They will have direct access to the records held by the council to ensure that you receive appropriate care.

If you do not need access to out-of-hours social care services, there will be no need for Social Care Direct staff to see your records.

The council will continue to monitor access to its records.

If you require more information, please contact Ellie Anderson (Adult Services) on 643 7354, or Cath McEvoy (Children’s Services) on 643 7314.

The council holds personal information about people to whom we provide services to make sure they receive appropriate care.

We use your information to:

Assess and provide the services you need.

Look into any concerns you may have.

Produce statistics and give information to other government organisations.

Monitor and plan our services.

The information we hold about you depends on your circumstances and the services we provide you with. In all cases, we hold your name and address.

People handling your personal information have been trained and have had the relevant security checks.

The information we record on paper and computer about you is stored securely.

Only those who need information to provide you with your services are allowed to see your records. Personal details such as names and addresses are removed from any information we publish.

50

widening horizons • October 2009

Nightstop project seeks volunteers A project that provides homeless young people with a roof over their heads is seeking volunteers.

Nightstop North East helps youngsters to find a safe place to stay while they either sort out their housing problems or prepare to return to their families.

Depaul UK, the largest youth homeless charity in the country, needs hosts, drivers and admin volunteers to enable the project to expand.

Tracy McDonald, manager of Nightstop North East, said:“It is estimated that more than 75,000 young people become homeless in the UK each year, often through no fault of their own.

“We need people who can give up their time to help some of the most vulnerable people in society.”

The role of a volunteer host involves offering a young person, who has been assessed by the project, a spare bed, food and the use of facilities for a night or two while they are helped to find more permanent accommodation.

Hosts can access 24-hour support and are paid an expenses allowance.

Drivers must have a full, clean driving licence and their own vehicle to take young people to the host accommodation, usually in the early evenings.

Warm welcome: Nightstop host Marion Guy with Anthony, who used the service. (Inset) The Rev John Gibson and his wife Pauline are also Nightstop hosts.

Admin volunteers are needed to keep the project, which is based in Whitley Bay, running smoothly. All volunteers receive out-of-pocket expenses, full training and support.

No previous experience is needed to volunteer for any of these roles – just a desire to help young people.

If you are interested in becoming part of the team, please contact Nightstop North East on 253 6161 or email: nightstopne@depauluk.org

Bradley’s story

Bradley left home when he was 17 after his stepdad was violent towards him.

He spent a few months sleeping on friends’ sofas until he heard about Nightstop North East.

The project provided Bradley with 10 nights accommodation with various volunteer hosts, where he was provided with meals, somewhere to wash and do his laundry.

Staff helped him to gain a place with Depaul UK’s supported lodgings scheme and he was able to lodge with a couple in North Tyneside on a more permanent basis.

Since then, he has found his own place to live, started a part-time job and rebuilt his relationship with his mother.

“Nightstop is a good project for young people,” said Bradley.“It’s got me back on my feet.”

51

Across the borough, hundreds of people regularly give up their free time to help their community.

Below: Ian Ferguson helps Hussain Nuri pack a food parcel.

Below right: Brenda Dinsdale receives her commendation from the then chairman of the council, Cllr Ian Macaulay.

52

Widening horizons • October 2009

The Chairman of the Council’s commendation scheme recognises those volunteers who unselfishly give their time and effort to help their neighbours.

Among those highly commended in the last set of awards were Ian Ferguson and Brenda Dinsdale. Widening Horizons tells their stories.

Helping the Ian Ferguson

Like the Good Samaritan, Ian Ferguson has made it his life’s work to help the needy when others have passed by.

For the past five years, the former prison chaplain and Church Army evangelist has concentrated his efforts on providing food, clothing and advice for asylum seekers and refugees through the Walking With project.

Churches Together on North Tyneside – an inter-denominational group – set up the project in 2004 and since then Ian and his colleagues have worked tirelessly to help those struggling to rebuild their lives.

“I’m now retired and do a great deal of charitable work,” said Ian, 67, who lives in Wallsend.“My role here is to bring everything together to help these people who have suffered so much.”

Volunteers at the Walking With project – based at the People’s Centre in Frank Street,Wallsend – provide practical help in various ways.

This includes providing food parcels to those who are destitute, help with filling in forms and assisting people with English lessons.

less fortunate

They also accompany people to legal or medical appointments and provide support in finding schools or doctors.

“I’ll do everything in my power to help people less fortunate than myself,” said Ian.

“I don’t do volunteer work for praise or anything else. I do it because I simply cannot stand by and let my fellow man suffer.”

The People’s Centre has drop-in sessions on Mondays and Wednesdays from 10am to 3pm.There is also a legal drop-in session on Tuesdays from 9.30am to noon.

Brenda Dinsdale

In 1986, the world’s worst nuclear disaster occurred at the Chernobyl reactor in the former Soviet Union.

Huge areas of land were ruined, the food chain was affected and even today the people of Belarus continue to suffer.

The scale of the tragedy moved Brenda Dinsdale, from Dudley, to set up the Chernobyl Continuity charity – offering respite holidays for young people.

“As a result of the disaster, thyroid cancers and leukaemia have risen dramatically in Belarus and sadly it’s often the teenagers that get forgotten about,” she said.

“We help young people by offering them a month away from their contaminated country.This is so important because it can prolong their life by improving their immune system.”

Brenda has spent more than a decade raising money and enlisting support for the charity from communities in North Tyneside.

As a result of her humanitarian work, she has received the second highest award given by the government of Belarus and was also invited to the Queen’s Garden Party earlier this year.

“I had previously worked as a volunteer for charities caring for younger children but I felt nothing was being done for teenagers, who are at a vulnerable time in their lives,” she added.

Many of the young people who come to England with Chernobyl Continuity have spent years in orphanages.

“Giving these youngsters a month’s holiday allows them the chance to experience things many of us take for granted,” said Brenda.

“When they are here they can visit dentists, doctors and opticians. But perhaps more importantly, we do our best to ensure they have fun.”

If you would like to make a donation or become a volunteer, please contact Chernobyl Continuity on 250 2040.

Nominations are now being accepted for the next round of the commendation scheme.

If you know a volunteer who deserves recognition for the contribution they make in their community, please contact the chairman's office on 643 5347 to request a nomination form.

A copy can also be found on the chairman's page on the council website: www.northtyneside.gov.uk

53

Number one for reactive maintenance in the north east

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE & ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALISTS We are a local, specialist organisation involved in the building and services sector.

We have been serving the North East successfully for many years, which has led to a new division within the group, Action Enviro Maintenance.

Each company specialises in its own fields, enabling us to provide a broad range of services.

Our experienced and knowledgeable management team is dedicated to providing excellent customer care.

Whether you are a private client or a large organisation you will receive a polite and professional service.

Action Group reacts fast to your needs. Using our regional knowledge and workforce, we reduce response time - which is why we are number one for reactive maintenance in the North East.

To find out more about the services we provide, contact us on:

0191 268 4082

Email: enquiries@actionlimited.co.uk Visit: www.actionlimited.co.uk

s n o z i hor widening

Oct 2009

Small repairs service

We provide a ‘handyman’ service – carrying out small jobs around the home.

These include replacing tap washers, fitting rails and making up flat-pack furniture.

Please note: we are unable to carry out work involving gas, electricity or heights.

54

om News fr around North Tyneside

s Age Take tage Centre S ll - fu Festival ils deta

rmed you info Keeping

or | www.n

e.gov.uk thtynesid

We charge £5 per hour for labour plus the cost of materials.To arrange an appointment, contact Sarah Mostyn on (0191) 270 3130.

To book council advertising space

Anchor Staying Put - North Tyneside

or email: claire.edge@northtyneside.gov.uk

widening horizons • October 2009

contact Claire Edge on 643 2111

youth disorder

Patrols tackle Police are carrying out after-school patrols across the borough in order to reduce crime and disorder and keep pupils safe.

Constables and community support officers are working closely with local schools and the council’s street wardens and youth workers.

Chief Insp Kevin Wellden said:“By working together with the council, we can make sure any issues are dealt with by all the relevant agencies, so the response is appropriate and has a long-term effect.”

The patrols are only carried out in term-time. Last term, officers stopped and spoke to pupils on 127 occasions.

being abusive, acting in a dangerous manner and carrying alcohol and cigarettes.Three were arrested.

Pupils were spoken to about various matters, including disorderly behaviour,

“We’re not looking to criminalise children but persistent offenders will be dealt with through the criminal justice system.”

Cllr Glynis Barrie, cabinet member for Safer Neighbourhoods, said:“The vast majority of our young people are well-behaved. However, where problems do occur, our team works closely with the police to ensure they are swiftly tackled.”

Chief Insp Wellden said:“We want young people who act in an anti-social manner to be made aware of the effects of their behaviour and be given the opportunity to change how they act.

Confiscated:

Diving into a new career

PC Kevin Rogerson with alcohol taken from a 15 year-old boy.

Local students could end up with careers at the new £9.7m Wallsend pool – thanks to a training initiative.

The council is offering a pathway to work for 24 students from Burnside Business and Enterprise College and Churchill Community College by hosting free 40-hour national pool lifeguard courses.

Students will be able to apply for posts when the recruitment drive begins for the new Wallsend pool and fitness facilities, which open to the community next summer.

The swimming pool and fitness facilities will form part of an integrated sport and leisure scheme for the south west of the borough, located at Burnside Business and Enterprise College.

It will consist of a 25-metre six-lane swimming pool, teaching pool and Contours fitness gym – all based on the successful scheme at The Lakeside Centre in Killingworth.

55

Chairman’s charities

A relative’s serious road accident has helped Cllr Michael Huscroft, the new chairman of the council, to select one of the charities he will be supporting during his year of office.

Cllr Huscroft has chosen Brainwave – which supports children with brain injuries and their families – after his niece suffered severe head injuries in the accident.

“Sadly, she was in hospital for three months,” he said.“But thanks to the charity, her development has been amazing.You wouldn’t know she had been in such a bad way if you saw her now.”

Cllr Huscroft has also chosen two cancer charities – the Chris Lucas Trust and the Mick Knighton Mesothelioma Research Fund – because of their links with local people.

“The difference these charities make to people’s lives is immeasurable,” he said.

“I have picked charities that I know do extraordinarily vital work and have strong links with the borough.”

Cllr Huscroft, a Wallsend councillor for 40 years, is hoping residents across North Tyneside will wholeheartedly support the various fund-raising initiatives that will be taking place during his year in office.

However, the role of the chairman – elected annually by the borough’s councillors – involves more than fundraising for his chosen charities.

Assisted by the deputy chairman, Cllr Barbara Stevens, he will carry out a range of civic and ceremonial duties and preside over meetings of the council.

To contact the office of the chairman of the council, phone Carol Girvan on (0191) 643 5347 56

widening horizons • October 2009

“I’m excited to be representing not only the residents of Wallsend but the entire borough,” said Cllr Huscroft, who is following in the footsteps of his wife Marian, who served as chairman three years ago.

“I’m looking to replicate the great work she carried out. It’s going to be tough but I’m up for the challenge!”

Mayor chooses new cabinet Elected mayor Linda Arkley has announced the members of her cabinet. Portfolios and key areas of responsibility are:

Elected Mayor Linda Arkley (Key areas of responsibility – political leader, principal public spokesman, lead on national and regional issues, Strategic Investment Plan.)

Deputy Mayor, Cllr Judith Wallace (Key areas – organisational improvement and information governance, Strategic Investment Plan, Council Plan, business engagement, Sustainable Community Strategy.)

Cllr Glynis Barrie, cabinet member for Community Services and Safer Neighbourhoods (Key areas – voluntary and community sector partnerships, sports participation and development, performing arts, community safety, parks and leisure facilities, youth provision and play strategy, champion for equality and diversity.)

Cllr Pam McIntyre, cabinet member for Community Engagement (Key areas – community engagement, area forums, neighbourhood agreements and standards, customer services and libraries, sustainable communities.)

Cllr Ian Macaulay, cabinet member for Housing (Key areas – housing (including sheltered accommodation), emergency planning, cleaner neighbourhoods.)

Cllr George Westwater, cabinet member for Children,Young People and Learning (Key areas – schools, early years, adult learning, children’s social care, children’s health and well being.)

Electoral register

Cllr Pat Greenwell, cabinet member for Adult Social Care (Key areas – adult health and well being, adult social care, older people’s champion.)

Cllr Jon Jo MacNamara, cabinet member for Regeneration (Key areas – regeneration, employment growth, economic development.)

Cllr Ed Hodson, cabinet member for Environment (Key areas – environment, sustainable development and planning, transport and highways, Climate Change Strategy, Carbon Footprint Strategy, Green Plan, Biodiversity Plan.)

Cllr Nigel Clothier, cabinet member for Finance (Key areas – finance, transformation, business rates, debt management, revenue and benefits, audit, local area agreements.)

Details for all North Tyneside councillors are available on the council website – www.northtyneside.gov.uk

The annual guide to councillors will appear in the next issue of Widening Horizons, published in November.

Electoral registration forms have been sent to every household in North Tyneside.

The information will be used to compile a new electoral register for next year’s elections, including the local elections in May.

By completing and returning the form, you will be able to have your say on what matters to you.

Starting in late September, there will be a four-week period when personal canvassers will call on people who have not returned their forms, in order to check the details and make any changes that are needed.

For more information, please contact 643 2270 or email: elections@northtyneside.gov.uk

57

North Tyneside Strategic Partnership Executive board members Chairman: Linda Arkley, Elected Mayor.

Vice Chairman: Alma Caldwell, Chair of the Community Network.

Gill Alexander - Chair of the Children,Young People and Learning Partnership.

Cllr Glynis Barrie - Chair of the Crime and Disorder Reduction and Misuse of Drugs Partnership.

Chief Supt Gary Calvert Northumbria Police.

David Cheetham - Interim Principal, Tyne Met College.

Mary Coyle - Chair of the Health and Wellbeing Partnership.

Brenda Grey - District Manager, Jobcentre Plus.

Andrew Kerr - Chief Executive, North Tyneside Council.

Ian McKee - Chair of the Sustainable Communities and Neighbourhoods Partnership.

Chris Reed - Chief Executive, North of Tyne Primary Care Organisations.

Trevor Tague - Group Manager, Fire and Rescue Service.

NTSP brings together different organisations and groups to improve the quality of life for people living and working in North Tyneside. There are similar partnerships across the country.

We want North Tyneside to be a borough where everyone can take advantage of opportunities to improve their lives and play their part in building strong, inclusive communities where people want to live and work.

Two years ago, NTSP developed a vision for the borough in 2030, and a Sustainable Community Strategy that outlines how we will go about achieving that vision.

The vision for 2030 and the Sustainable Community Strategy are available on the NTSP website. Please call 643 5608 if you would like a paper copy.

John Taylor - Partnership Manager, Learning and Skills Council.

Jan Worters - Chief Officer,Voluntary Organisations Development Agency.

Vacancy - North East Chamber of Commerce.

Vacancy -The Regeneration and Enterprise Partnership.

Telephone: 643 5608 Email: ntsp@northtyneside.gov.uk www: www.ntsp-online.org.uk

58

Widening horizons • October 2009

How NTSP works

We have the flexibility to decide our own priorities and what action we will take in the borough, which is set out in the Sustainable Community Strategy. In addition, some of our work is agreed with central government.

NTSP has an executive board bringing together 16 senior decision makers from leading organisations in the borough. Members make decisions on NTSP priorities, how it will work and what it will do. Linda Arkley, the borough’s mayor, is chair of the executive.

Because of economic conditions in the country, we need to make sure that we make the most of the resources we have, while staying on track to achieve the vision for 2030.

The organisations on the NTSP executive have considerable resources, which can be pooled to give maximum efficiency.

The current Sustainable Community Strategy runs until 2010 and will be updated over the next few months to cover 2010-13.

Survey shows great improvement

Residents living in areas of North Shields covered by NTSP’s Neighbourhood Management project have given their verdict on its work – with overall results showing great improvement in satisfaction.

Almost 900 people from the 4,282 households covered by the project took part in an independent survey, which mirrored a similar survey in 2006.

The full results are on the NTSP website under ‘Neighbourhood Management’.To order a paper copy, please call 200 8888.

A splash of colour

Here are some of the key findings (2006 results in brackets).

Satisfaction with the overall performance of the council is now 58% (34%).

80% are satisfied with their neighbourhood as a place to live (73%).

22% think their neighbourhood has got better over the past two years (14%).

Satisfaction with council wardens has increased to 30% (17%).

36% are satisfied with action to stop dog fouling (25%).

44% are satisfied with action to stop littering (24%).

Satisfaction with the overall performance of the police is now 50% (34%).

Satisfaction with the overall performance of health services is now 77% (56%).

Neighbourhood Management has funded two schemes aimed at making local streets cleaner and brighter.

To tackle dog fouling – a major issue for residents – 13 new dog waste bins have been installed in areas with the highest levels of concern.

Neighbourhood Management has also funded hanging baskets and planters to bring a splash of summer colour.

Work done with the Triangle Residents’ Association and Age Concern North Tyneside found that residents felt their streets lacked colour, particularly because there is very little green space in the area.

Gavin Willis, of the association, said: “The flowers look lovely and have really brightened up the streets.The residents were happy to work with the project to do something that has such an impact and makes a real difference to where we live.”

Blooming lovely: Resident Valerie Bubb admires one of the hanging baskets. Looking on are project development officer Lisa Beck (left) and Barbara Harland, of Age Concern North Tyneside.

59

North Shields Wallsend Whitley Bay Shops, culture and entertainment on your doorstep

Shop local, it couldn’t be easier

horizons widening

To make shopping easy, the Tyne Town website holds information on over 1,600 shops

Visit: www.tynetown.co.uk

A new initiative by North Tyneside Council to help small businesses

Keep it local Stay mobile...

We take care of all aspects of central heating and plumbing at very competitive prices.

safe GAS

TM

REGISTER

Tel: 07775 966 762

Su r pe f le no op sso rm le n f al for or ly £ tw £6 50 o 0

Tel: 0191 257 5032 En t ch e r C 1 0 e ck O % ou UN di t t C sc o IL ou ge a nt t t

Personalised mugs For a unique gift idea, visit our website - add your own photo or text to create a great photo gift.

www.personalisedmugs.co.uk

Online database-linked websites with content management control.

Web designers & developers of Tynetown.co.uk

Tel: 0191 296 3702

Tel: 0191 253 3777

Louise Aveyard Driving School Fully qualified female instructor - patient and friendly.

Tel: 078111 75956

Citizenship courses for British passport, indefinite leave and work permit transfer City & Guilds ESOL for citizenship test

english.school@btconnect.com

Website Design & Development

www.squarepage.com

21-23 Station Road, Whitley Bay

www.eastcoasttaxis.com

For all your surf & skateboard needs 11 Front Street,Tynemouth NE30 4RG

info@hurleytynmouth.com

L

keep our number in your phone

Tel: 0191 252 5265

Italian Restaurant Happy hour 5.30 - 6.30pm Pizza or pasta £5.50 5 Victoria Crescent, Cullercoats

Tel: 0191 251 3065

Beautiful Day Wedding Services

Colin Gardiner

Bridal gowns - make-up - hair Jewellery - evening wear - shoes 41 Cauldwell Lane, Monkseaton, NE25 8SS

All building work undertaken.

Tel: 0191 289 3832 or 07738 515112

Mobile: 07903 505527

Catherine O’Sullivan

All aspects of plastering - internal and external.

www.catherineosullivan.co.uk

BIG GARAGE small prices!!

Servicing from £50.00

Burnside Road, Cullercoats

www.joblingsgarage.co.uk

H w al ith f p a ri w fu ce i l M ad th t l se O ve hi rv T rt s ice

Tel: 07870 627 796

Joblings

Tel: 0191 258 0971

David Watson Plastering

Bespoke handcrafted wedding, event & social stationery.

mail@catherineosullivan.co.uk

Builder/joiner

Tel: 0191 252 2477

Tel: 07855 858213 or 0191 253 1090

Skip Hire From household rubbish to large commercial operations, Orange has the skip hire solution. www.orangeskips.co.uk

Tel: 0191 257 3039 or 07732 266 175

It’s free to advertise on this page Contact Claire Edge on 0191 643 2111 or email: marketing@northtyneside.gov.uk Terms and conditions apply. See website: www.northtyneside.gov.uk

We will: G

Let you know who is in your local Neighbourhood Policing Team

G

Tell you how you can get in touch with them

G

Give you the chance to meet with us regularly

G

Involve you in deciding the policing priorities for your community

G

Respond promptly to any report of poor service and agree how it will be handled

To find out more visit www.northumbria.police.uk

NORTHUMBRIA POLICE

Win

tickets to Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

This month’s prize will appeal to anyone who has hummed along to Any Dream Will Do or tapped their foot to One More Angel.

We’re giving away a pair of tickets for the opening night of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and a chance to meet the show’s star, Craig Chalmers!

Joseph will run for 24 performances at the PLAYHOUSE Whitley Bay from December 1 to 13.

The show marked the beginning of the legendary partnership between Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, who went on to write Jesus Christ Superstar and Evita.

With the liveliest, most energetic company of actors, singers and dancers you’ll ever see, Joseph is brimming with non-stop action, laughter and fun that will delight the young and the young at heart.

For your chance to win a pair of tickets for the show and meet Craig Chalmers, just answer the following question:

How many performances of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat are scheduled for the PLAYHOUSE Whitley Bay during December?

Entries should be marked Widening Horizons competition and sent to:

Communications Team, (3rd floor right) Quadrant, Silverlink North, Cobalt Business Park, North Tyneside NE27 0BY

(Please include your full address and a daytime telephone number.)

Tickets, priced £13 to £24.50, are still available for Joseph. Ring the box office on 0844 277 2771, visit www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk or call in to the PLAYHOUSE – 10am to 4pm (Monday to Friday) and 9.30am to 1.30pm (Saturday).

July competition

Congratulations to Sonia Scott of North Shields who won tickets to Disney on Ice at the Newcastle Metro Radio Arena.

Terms and conditions

Closing date for entries, October 14. Open to North Tyneside residents only. One entry per person.The winner will be the first correct entry drawn at random after the closing date and will be notified by phone.The tickets are available for the opening night only. Entrants must be prepared to take part in post-competition publicity. The editor’s decision is final.

63

Get EXTRA Get active Get smart Get about

Available from leisure centres and selected libraries

Call 0845 2000 101 or visit www.northtyneside.gov.uk

Available October 26 See page 23 for further d etails