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problems JOIN IN YOGA TIME IN THE PARK
Three in four paramedics fear for safety on the job
THE MAJORITY of paramedics in Wokingham and beyond have felt threatened while at work, according to a new survey.
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The College of Paramedics has revealed nearly three quarters (72%) of those working in the South East have feared for their safety while on duty - slightly higher than the national average (70%).
The report also found nearly half (49%) of those surveyed have been physically abused on shift, while four out of five (80%) have faced verbal abuse.
The findings come one month after NHS England found paramedics saw results rise by a third (33%) in the past five years.
Tracy Nicholls, chief executive of the College of Paramedics, said: “We have long been aware of the physical and verbal abuse that paramedics suffer and the toll it takes on their health and wellbeing – but this is the first time that a largescale survey of this kind has revealed the extent of the problem.”
She said paramedics go above and beyond to support the vulnerable.
“It’s absolutely outrageous to think that so many paramedics have been abused whilst carrying out their duties,” Ms Nicholls added. “Worryingly, the abuse appears to have increased during the pandemic when paramedics are already exposing themselves to greater personal risk.”
And she is concerned it is affecting medics’ mental health, as nearly all (89%) of those surveyed said the abuse directly impacts their health and wellbeing.
The College of Paramedics will now form part of the NHS Health and Wellbeing team to provide further support to paramedics in the South East and beyond.
EXCLUSIVE
By LAURA SCARDARELLA lscardarella@wokingham.today
A NEW YOGA class has proved to be a hit with Wokingham locals as it welcomes more people each week.
Park Yoga, a charity-funded organisation that aims to promote yoga outdoors for everyone, has made its way to the borough thanks to Wokingham-based instructor Richard Welch.
The free classes, which began on Sunday, July 25, will be running every Sunday until mid September.
Taking place at Howard Palmer Gardens, sessions will be from 9.30am to 10.30am for people to enjoy the fresh morning air.
With 13 participants in the first week, Mr Welch was pleased to have 28 people join him last Sunday and hopes the numbers keep on rising.
He said: “Everyone who came along to our morning session had a brilliant time, the enjoyment people got out of it was great and it was lovely to see a wide range of ages join.
“Realising the whole mental wellbeing of yoga really was a life
FREE:
Classes run on Sunday morning in Howard Palmer Gardens Picture: Park Yoga
changing moment for me, for how I breathe and manage myself during the day, and I want to pass my knowledge and love for yoga onto other people through these free outdoor classes”
Mr Welch said he was particularly impressed with the children who took part saying it was lovely to have a mixture of people there.
“We are a very inclusive group and even if you’ve never done yoga before, just come along and see what it’s all about,” he said.
“We focus on relaxation and mindfulness at the end of the class, how to use your breath to calm the nervous system down to release that stress, which is absolutely vital.”
And you don’t even need to worry about parking as the Cockpit Path Car Park is free on Sundays.
Attendees should pre-register for free online.
In the event of bad weather, everyone that has signed up will be emailed a link to a video session called Park Yoga Short so no one misses out that day. n For more details, visit parkyoga. co/wokingham or follow Park Yoga Wokingham on Facebook.
Don’t go site seeing warning
A DEVELOPER is urging Wokingham residents to steer clear of construction sites this summer, in a bid to keep children safe.
David Wilson Homes Southern has launched a series of videos for primary school-aged children to teach them about avoiding hazards when out and about during the holidays.
Campbell Gregg, managing director of the housing developer, said: “Developers like ourselves are building more new homes at sites all over the country, but until they are completed these places can be dangerous.
“Now restrictions have eased and we’re able to venture further afield, children should be told to stay away from construction sites.
“While we do watch out for youngsters during the day and secure our developments at night, we would like to ask parents to ensure the safety of their children during the holidays, especially if they live near an active building site.”
Doctor’s fears over sewage treatment
By SUE CORCORAN news@wokingham.today A LEADING medical doctor is worried about risks to his seriously disabled sister’s health from a sewage treatment system.
Dr Henry Lupa, is complaining about plans to discharge the sewage system into a stream circling 22 homes. His sister is due to move into one of them.
There’s anger at the homes in Bonhomie Court, Broadcommon Road, Hurst about the treatment system installed, without permission, for a new barn conversion house about 400 yards from their homes and gardens.
IT project manager Andrew Wilson was horrified to discover the end of the system’s discharge pipe installed, without his go ahead, over the waterway running through his garden.
A planning application has now been made for the wastewater treatment plant at Grange Farm, Islandstone Lane.
Twelve Bonhomie Court residents had raised objections to planning permission being given yesterday. The deadline for comments to Wokingham Borough Council is today (Thursday).
Dr Lupa, who is chief medical officer to QinetiQ plc defence and security company and an expert advisor to the General Medical Council, said in his objection: “I, as a Trustee, purchased the property within the last month in Trust on behalf of my seriously disabled sister, who has yet to move into the property in Bonhomie Court with her live-in carer.
“The location was selected so that she could sit in her wheelchair and enjoy her garden which backs directly onto the stream.
“Unfortunately, this stream could soon be potentially contaminated and thus pose a significantly higher risk to her health due to the immunosuppressive medications she needs to take.
“I am hence very concerned that in the event that this application is passed, we may have inadvertently moved her to a property that is likely to impact on her longer term health.
“Notably, and of grave concern, is that Wokingham Borough Council did not declare that that this may be happening during any of the very recent searches conducted by our solicitors, which would have influenced our decision to purchase at this time.”
Resident Valerie Tester objected saying: “With a serious lung condition, this installation will cause me to have rethink my living conditions here at Bonhomie Court. How disgraceful is that!”
Mr Wilson who has been campaigning against the system lodged his objections. This week he told Wokingham.Today that the council should not have approved the barn conversion without knowing and approving details of how sewage would be dealt with.
Neither Wokingham Borough Council or the application’s agents, mm3 Design, had replied to the residents’ allegations as we went to press.
CONCERN: The outlet pipe in Hurst
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DOMESTIC ABUSE: New provider assumed it would take Women’s Aid sites says CEO Cranstoun has no refuges yet
EXCLUSIVE
By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today
SURVIVORS of domestic abuse could be struggling to access refuge support in Wokingham borough, more than a month after Cranstoun took over the council’s support service.
This is according to Andrea West, CEO of Berkshire Women’s Aid (BWA), who said there is still no sign of a refuge from Cranstoun on Routes to Support, a national refuge database.
Cranstoun, which specialises in perpetrator intervention, took over Wokingham Borough Council’s contract for domestic abuse on Thursday, July 1.
In May, it was announced the charity had won the £1.5 million tender from BWA, which had been working with the council for 18 months prior.
A spokesperson for the borough council said Cranstoun is working towards establishing refuge support in the area, suitable for men and the LGBTQ+ community.
But Ms West said the charity assumed it would take BWA’s women-only centre.
Now, she is concerned survivors of domestic abuse are not able to get the help they desperately need.
“It was very clear in the tender who managed our [refuge] building and who it belonged to,” Ms West explained. “It’s a building that we lease so after we lost the tender, there was no obligation for us to hand [it over].”
The CEO is worried that more than a month into the new contract, the only refuge in Wokingham borough is one provided by her charity at no cost to the local authority.
“An integral part of the tender was to deliver refuge services,” Ms West continued. “How can Wokingham Borough Council justify Cranstoun not offering this? It’s hugely disappointing for us to be told that service isn’t being provided.”
According to Wokingham Borough Council, residents can still access three refuge spaces locally, thanks to BWA’s facility.
“The refuge centre remains unchanged and is available for victims who need access to safe, emergency accommodation,” a spokesperson said.
They said Cranstoun is also working on a range of “more enhanced” refuge spaces.
“By identifying and adding new refuge provisions, this will increase the availability of local help, thus reducing the barrier for men and other victims (LGBTQ+) seeking help for domestic abuse,” they added. “It also means that there will be more than double the amount of local refuge provision for domestic abuse victims, providing them with additional support.
“The council will actively continue to improve support for domestic abuse victims and proactively look for opportunities to increase safe, refuge spaces.”
Is the council fulfilling its duty?
The charity CEO questioned whether the lack of refuge service means Wokingham Borough Council is fulfilling its duty as a local authority.
Under the Domestic Abuse Act 2021, local councils in England must assess the need for support in their area, including the demand for “safe” accommodation.
They must also “commission support to victims of domestic abuse and their children” who are living in refuge centres.
Wokingham Borough Council is currently consulting with residents and organisations following the new Act.
A spokesperson said: “We have expanded our consultation to enable us to refresh our Domestic Abuse strategy and set our action plan for the next year.
“In line with Government guidelines, funding decisions linked to the new duty will be made following consultation.”
Its domestic abuse strategy will be published by the end of October.
According to BWA, Cranstoun was notified in early May that it had been awarded the new domestic abuse contract.
As part of the tender process, it had to demonstrate how it would get services up and running for the start of July.
Now, Ms West is urging Cranstoun to clarify what steps will be taken next.
Her charity is continuing to provide safe accommodation for women after she said demand increased three-fold during lockdown — but BWA’s refuge is currently full.
“If Cranstoun didn’t check with Wokingham Borough Council [about the refuge], that was an error made in the tendering process,” she said.
“But moving on, what are they going to do about it now? It astonishes me that a month in, they’re not providing the services we need and we are picking up the pieces with no support from the borough council.”
A spokesperson for Wokingham Borough Council said those living in Wokingham can access support through its homelessness team.
“[They] will discuss options available and work alongside the individual, be they male or female victims, to access safe accommodation,” they explained.
“The Homelessness team as well as Cranstoun can access national databases to identify suitable refuge accommodation.”
Cranstoun was also contacted for comment.
NEWS | 5 Neighbourhood crime top focus for national plan
NEIGHBOURHOOD crime is one of the top priorities in the prime minister’s Beating Crime Plan.
Unveiled last week, the also focuses on antisocial behaviour and making communities safer.
Thames Valley’s PCC, Matthew Barber said he knows the huge impact crime can have on people’s lives.
“I welcome the support of the Government in seeking to tackle the issues that matter most to the public,” he said. “Concerns over antisocial behaviour, car crime, burglaries and the responsiveness of the police to local issues really matter to communities here in Thames Valley.”
Mr Barber said police recruitment is going well in the region.
He added: “When the public need the police they want to know they will receive the appropriate response, so continuing to monitor and further improve the response to 999 and 101 calls and online contact is important to ensure public confidence, not just by driving down the time taken to answer calls, but also to improve the quality of service provided to the public.
“I am committed to deliver safer communities across Thames Valley and the measures set out in this plan will help Thames Valley Police and our partners to tackle neighbourhood crime, anti-social behaviour and drug crime.”
Domestic abuse consultation
FOLLOWING the Domestic Abuse Act 2021, Wokingham Borough Council has launched a consultation on its draft Domestic Abuse Strategy for 2021-2024.
Executive member for neighbourhood and communities Cllr Bill Soane, said the council wants to be “on the right track”.
It ends on Friday, August 20. n To take part, visit: bit.ly/ WBCAbuseConsultation
6 | NEWS PCC funds project to reduce abuser reoffending rates
MORE THAN £18,000 has been pushed into a new project aiming to reduce reoffending in abusers.
Matthew Barber, Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for Thames Valley, has given the money to the force to work with the Hampton Trust on its Cautioning and Relationship Abuse (CARA) project.
It is aimed at lower risk, alleged first time domestic abusers who will attend two workshops roughly a month apart.
The workshops will cover the impact of behaviour on others, including the victim and any children.
There will also be advice on accessing other services, such as substance misuse. Sessions will also deal with feelings of shame, anxiety, anger and remorse.
Mr Barber said the project is an important part in his police and criminal justice plan.
“The CARA project, delivered by the Hampton Trust, has the opportunity to make a real difference in reducing reoffending among domestic abuse perpetrators,” he said.
“This is an exciting project which has the potential to protect victims, and reduce crime.
“I am pleased to be able to support this project and, in turn, keep our communities safe.”
Detective Chief Inspector Jon Capps, force lead for domestic abuse, said they are exploring all opportunities to protect victims, reduce re-offending and prevent future harm to others.
“Further details about the project will be published in due course, including eligibility and implementation dates,” he said.
Caroline Freeman, Project CARA national lead for The Hampton Trust, said: “CARA has a proven track record of reducing domestic abuse re-offending by enabling people to access support and intervention earlier before abusive behaviour escalates and causes severe harm to victims and children.”
Bus group hires media man
READING BUSES has made a dynamic new appointment but don’t ask him to get behind the wheel – he can’t drive.
Tom Broadfoot, 34, has joined as the company’s new marketing and PR executive and brings with him 15 years’ experience of media content creation.
“I’m really excited to get to work at such a vibrant and forward-facing organisation,” he said. “I’m looking forward to working closely with our community to make sure people have pride in the service we provide.
Away from buses, Mr Broadfoot enjoys the theatre and kayaking, but not at the same time.
Citizens Advice hunts for new recruits across the borough
EXCLUSIVE
By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today
CITIZENS ADVICE Wokingham is on the search for help as it expands.
The borough-wide charity is looking for 25 more volunteers, who can support some of the most vulnerable in the community, said chief executive Jake Morrison.
It comes as the organisation prepares to open its Woodley office and become involved in the new charity hub in Wokingham town centre.
Mr Morrison said he is proud of his team, who have seen a 129% rise in callers since the pandemic began.
“Every day, our staff and volunteers do their best to support our clients,” he said. “We help people across the borough to find a way forward with their problems.
“Our volunteers are on the frontline — they answer calls, build trust and confidence with people across our communities and help unpick their issues to identify next steps.”
He said over the last 18 months, the charity has focused on signposting people to the right support via its One Front Door service.
“I am so proud of our team, we have answered over 95% of all phone demand throughout the pandemic, arguably the toughest period in our charity’s history,” he added.
“We are one of the highest performing offices in the country.
“Now we are asking for more volunteers to consider joining us, as we aim to re-open our Woodley office, and look to play a key role in the Wokingham Town charity hub which will be based in the building we are currently in.”
Mr Morrison is looking for volunteers for phone and in-person services.
“Please consider attending one of our open days online, hearing more about our great team and the training that is on offer,” the chief executive added.
Nicky Phull, training manager at the organisation said the role is best suited for residents that want to make a difference in other people’s lives.
This includes advising on benefits, debt and employment, and helping others increase their employability.
She said the charity can offer seven hours of volunteering each week. This can be spread across one or two days.
During the last year, the charity has helped 5,830 people with 17,710 issues.
Mr Morrison said his team expects high demand to continue, wants to prepare by having enough people on hand to help.
Volunteer Lorna Hunter-Smith, whose name has been changed, said she initially joined the charity to gain work experience, after a few years as a full-time mother.
But she has stayed longer than anticipated.
“I have continued for the past eight months because I am truly honoured to be in a position to offer help to people,” she said.
This can take the form of a listening ear, advice on where to get information, help with debt and support referrals.
“I am humbled every time and amazed by how much difference Citizens Advice makes in people’s lives and I am proud to be here,” she said.
Another volunteer, Jacob Hunt, whose name has also been changed, said his proudest moment was reaching an £8,000 discrimination case settlement 20 minutes before a hearing was due to start.
“My proudest moments are when I assist clients in achieving positive outcomes in their employment disputes with employers who disregard employment law and procedures,” he explained.
Mr Hunt also helped one client increase their redundancy settlement by £43,000.
He said he volunteers to give back to the community, keep his brain active and be part of a team of like-minded people. n For more information, or to register interest in volunteering, visit: citizensadvicewokingham. org.uk/volunteering or email: volunteer@ citizensadvicewokingham.org.uk
Students exhibit their artwork
A HUMAN chrysalis, beautiful landscapes and a whole host of animals were on show in Bracknell and Wokingham College last month.
A range of works were hosted at the campus on Church Road in Bracknell as part of Activate Learning’s Art, Photography and Media Exhibition, to showcase students’ end of year artwork.
An array of different styles were showcased, from painting and photography to sculpture and costume design.
Dylan, who is currently studying a Level 3 Art and Design diploma at the college, said it was great to take part in the show.
“We got to see everyone’s art and progress during this year,” he said.
“It was nice to be able to come together and show each other and the wider college community, what we’ve all done.
“Taking part in the exhibition has helped me to learn how to lay out my work in a way that is presentable and helps to catch the eye of the viewer.”
Jay, who just finished his studies, said the event helped the class see how their styles had developed.
“It’s caused me to be more vulnerable and put yourself out there which is really good” he said.
ON SHOW:
Picture: Bracknell and Wokingham College
“It’s also nice to hear the feedback.
“Everyone’s art is so individual and everyone’s got their own take on it and reflects their creativity in different ways and different mediums so there are no two pieces the same and that is really exciting.”
Jay Allen, visual arts and design lecturer at Activate Learning, said it was lovely to see students rising to the challenge of putting the entire showcase together, too.
“It’s been a fantastic year, even during the difficulties with the pandemic,” he added.
“[The students] all worked really well together, displaying their chosen work.
“We are all really proud of them all, they have all worked so hard throughout the year and created some fantastic artwork which is on display, highlighting their talents and chosen styles.”
Coffee shop opens “We’re delighted to be opening our fourth coffee shop and we hope A NEW COFFEE shop has opened in that visitors will enjoy relaxing in Reading. our space with our extensive range
Coffee Under Pressure welcomed of hot drinks and food on offer,” its first customers at Broad Street said owner Nasos. Mall last month. It is the latest addition to Broad
It serves a range of speciality Street Mall as part of its ongoing teas, coffees, homemade cakes, redevelopment scheme. sandwiches and salads. Nicola Williamson, general
With another branch in Bristol, manager at Broad Street Mall said the company was included in the 50 it is a fabulous addition to the best coffee shops in Englands and shopping centre. has won several awards. It is open foom 9am to 5pm.
