Our City Issue 06 by i•creation

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Western Edition

COUNCIL PUBLICATION OF THE YEAR

Our City ISSUE 6: SEPTEMBER 2008

SEE CENTRE PAGES

City libraries celebrate National Year of Reading

Stoke-on-Trentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s TOP TEN Reads WIN Book Tokens

Stepping up park security SEE PAGE 16

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Our City S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 8

Mark Meredith

E L E C T E D M AYO R

Improved city generates a sense of pride OUR city is changing for the better. Once considered the worst place to start a business in the country, the North Staffordshire Regeneration Zone is now the Enterprise Capital of Britain. Our city council, once considered the worst performing authority in the country, is now recognised as the most improved in the country. These achievements are a source of pride to us all. I’m proud to lead a city with a vision to be seen as one the best in Britain. We need to work together to make this vision a reality. Thank you to those of you who have contributed ideas to my Climate Change Green Paper enclosed in the previous Our City. Stoke-on-Trent will lead on environmental improvements and every citizen needs to play their part. Green Papers are intended to open up debate. There will be more on Sports and Housing soon. They will allow ordinary people and experts, not just political decision makers, to bring their experience and knowledge to bear at early stages of policy making. We need to create policies we can all believe in and own, policies that will take our city forward not back, creating opportunities for the many not the few. I look forward to hearing your views. If there is anything I can help you out with please email me at mayormeredith@stoke.gov.uk, call me on 01782 232827 or write to me at Civic Centre, Glebe Street, Stoke-on-Trent, ST4 1RN.

Toolkits take pride in city toddlers’teeth AN innovative new oral health toolkit has been launched by Stoke-on-Trent Primary Care Trust’s Oral Health Improvement Team. The toolkit has been designed for health visitors to use when they are out on visits to show parents and carers how to look after babies and toddlers’ teeth. Already the kit has been very popular during a pilot scheme and now the Primary Care Trust is providing every health visitor in the city with their own toolkit. The toolkit comes in two sizes, A3 and A5, with flipcharts with oral health information and advice. Each kit contains a model set of baby teeth to help health visitors show the damage that dummies can cause and to demonstrate tooth brushing. It also includes a sample of the recommended strength of fluoride toothpaste for children, baby toothbrushes and examples of correct baby cups and sugary baby drinks that can damage teeth. Marie Barley, Stoke-on-Trent Primary Care Trust’s Health Improvement Worker for Oral

Health Visitor Pam Goodwin added: “I can see that I will get a lot of use out of the health visitor toolkit. “I received it in the morning and by 3.30pm had used it with three families who came to clinic, to address a range of dental health issues.”

Officers to blitz home violence A

TEAM of officers will be dedicated to reducing domestic violence in Stoke-on-Trent during a city council and police-led blitz this month.

Building-on the impact of a city council advertising campaign on the subject around the city due to begin in September, the officers will be targeting known hotspots. They will be attending reported incidents of domestic violence with the latest video recording equipment attached to their clothing – to gather evidence and assist with the prosecution of offenders. Help and support will also be offered to the victims by the domestic incident officers. Inspector Dawn Campbell from the Stoke-on-Trent Public Protection Team, said: “We will be identifying those addresses where we get called to frequent domestic incidents and paying unannounced visits.

Meeting dates are now online Our City is printed on 100 per cent recycled paper. When you have finished with this publication please help the environment by passing it on to a friend or put it in your recycle blue bag.

Health, said: “The toolkit is designed to help reduce the high rates of tooth decay among five-year-old children by giving health visitors a really practical guide they can share with parents and carers about how to look after children’s teeth. “It has already stimulated interest from other PCTs and has received a lot of positive feedback from local health professionals.”

A full list of dates and times of full city council meetings and committee meetings can be found on the council website stoke.gov.uk/meetingdates

Julie Cartledge and seven-and-a-half month old daughter Millie-Jai try out the dental health toolkit introduced to help parents look after their children’s teeth

“The intention is to reduce the number of further incidents by demonstrating that it is unacceptable and that the police treat it very seriously. The advertising – which is funded by Government Office West Midlands – will highlight the main issues and aim to raise awareness of what services and organisations are out there to help if you have been the victim of any form of domestic violence.” Staffordshire Police has a number of specialist personnel within the force who are trained to help and support those experiencing domestic violence. These officers are available to discuss any concerns and options that are available, including which other agencies can provide support. The domestic incident officers can be contacted by calling 01785 232985. In an emergency always call 999 and ask for the police. Otherwise you can contact the local Domestic Violence Helpline during normal office hours on 01782 205500.

£2m project boosts health STOKE-on-Trent City Council is part of a £2m project to improve the city’s health and fitness. In partnership with Stoke-on-Trent Primary Care Trust, the city will be engaging in the “Be Active, Be Healthy” Lifestyle Programme, designed to help people who want to be involved from anything from losing weight to avoiding heart disease. Anyone involved will be given free access to all of the city’s leisure facilities for the 20 weeks that the programme runs. Find out more from your GP or at stoke.gov.uk

Give us your feedback on this issue of Our City by emailing ourcity@stoke.gov.uk or write to: FREEPOST Our City – next issue out November 15

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SEPTEMBER 2008

Health chief pledges to target inequalities B

ALANCING the books should come naturally to Graham Urwin, Chief Executive of Stoke-on-Trent Primary Care Trust. The man responsible for funding the health care of around 270,000 people in the city was once an accountant.

An annual budget of £430 million holds no terrors for a man trained to crunch those sort of numbers. In fact since taking the helm of the new Trust when it replaced two separate city PCTs in 2006, Graham has turned budget deficits he inherited into a small but healthy looking surplus – money that will be invested in new services. Most of the Trust’s funds pay for local health providers like family doctors and dentists, and hospital treatment commissioned by the PCT accounts for about half the income of the city’s University Hospital of North Staffordshire. But balance sheets are not his sole concern. Graham’s priorities for the relatively new PCT is to modernise the city’s health services and work with other strategic partners to tackle the area’s health inequalities.

Local communities He points to the Haywood Hospital currently being re-built and due to open its doors next year, as well as recently opened health centres at Bentilee, Fenton, Packmoor and Shelton which are bringing health services to the doorsteps of local communities – saving many patients from having to go to hospital. Three more centres – where GPs and other health professionals can carry out small operations and other procedures, reducing pressure on hospitals – will all be up and running by 2011. “As a result, over the next four years the University Hospital of North Staffordshire will be seeing 60,000 fewer patients per year,” said Graham. “This means that the new University Hospital currently being built will actually be smaller than the existing one, allowing it to concentrate on more specialist services.” Health inequality, Graham’s other main concern, is a term not understood by some people, even though it may have a negative impact on their lives. He spelt it out like this: “A boy born in Stoke-on-Trent today can expect to live nine years less than a boy born

HEALTHY FUTURE... Stoke-on-Trent Primary Care Trust Chief Executive Graham Urwin sees progress on the new Haywood Hospital with Project Manager Nick Pritchard. elsewhere – even in a nearby area like Cheshire. “It’s one problem that people don’t seem to get angry about – but they should. We want to make sure people in this city not only have those extra nine years of life – but that they enjoy good health during those years.” Graham pointed to low educational achievement, low incomes and unhealthy life styles as the reasons why Stoke-on-Trent has unacceptably high levels of health problems such as obesity, heart disease, strokes and diabetes. The PCT has addressed some of these issues – for instance it offers a comprehensive range of services to help people stop smoking. “But we can’t get rid of inequalities on our own,” said Graham. “For the first time the areas of Stoke-on-Trent covered by the PCT are largely the same

Our City

Make a date at city fayre THE achievements of Stoke-onTrent Primary Care Trust over the last financial year will be highlighted at its annual general meeting. The PCT will be revealing its plans for the future, and giving people an opportunity to come along and hear what is happening to their local health service. This year’s AGM is being held at the King’s Hall, Stoke on Tuesday, September 30, at 2pm. No tickets are required and anyone wishing to attend can simply turn up on the day. It is being held to coincide with the PCT’s very successful annual Health Fayre, which is also being held in the King’s Hall from 12.30pm to 4.30pm. There will be more than 60 stands offering a range of advice from how to stop smoking through to healthy eating and blood pressure testing as well as face painting and competitions for children. For further information, please call Ruth Findley on 01782 298211.

Police number goes live as those administered by the city council. “This makes it easier for us to build a relationship with the city council in a joined-up approach to changing people’s aspirations and expectations. Front-line staff from different agencies have always worked well together where their services overlap – we must all learn to do the same.”

Making a difference For its part the PCT is increasing quality and accessibility to primary health care in a city that has less GPs per head of population than anywhere else in the country. By December this year, over half of the family doctor surgeries in Stoke-on-Trent will be open an extra four hours a week – in the mornings, late evenings or weekends depending on which best suits patients. Also, an extra 12 family

doctors are being recruited to form teams for areas under most pressure. This will take on average 200 patients off the books of the existing GPs, giving them more time to devote to the needs of patients remaining on their register. From a career in accountancy, Graham joined the NHS in 1989 and has had high profile roles in East London, Wolverhampton and more recently at South Birmingham PCT where he was Finance Director and then Chief Executive. He said: “I was excited about coming to Stoke-on-Trent because it has one of the most challenging health economies in the West Midlands in terms of making a difference to standards of health and modernising existing services. “I want to increase the public’s confidence in the NHS by improving the quality of services that we deliver.” ● What improvements would you like to see to health services in Stoke-on-Trent? Write to FREEPOST Our City or email ourcity@stoke.gov.uk

THE single non-emergency telephone number for Staffordshire Police is to change from 08453 30 20 10 to 0300 123 4455. Ofcom, regulator of the UK communications industry, has advised that all government departments should move away from the 0845 revenuegenerating numbers to the newly created 03 number range to stop public confusion over call costs. The new number has been selected by the force’s Citizen’s Panel and the Communications Independent Advisory Group, based on how easy it is to remember and dial. It will allow the public to call Staffordshire Police for the price of a local call from both landlines and mobile phones, and the telecom industry is being advised to include this number range in its free ‘call bundles’. The new number will not go live until mid-September. Look out for more information in the next issue of Our City.

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A preview of a computer generated design for James Brindley High School (in red). Iconic school buildings are being planned to play an important part in the city’s regeneration.

SEPTEMBER 2008

Your questions answered on ACADEMIES THE city’s Building Schools for the Future programme includes the proposal for five new Academies. But what are Academies and how will they be run? Below we look at a sample of the questions parents, teachers, governors, and of course, pupils will want answered. What are Academies? Academies are publicly funded independent local schools that provide education. They are schools for pupils of all abilities established by sponsors from business, faith or voluntary groups. Why involve sponsors in running Academies? Sponsors challenge traditional thinking on how schools are run and what they should be like for students. Sponsors can give extra focus and sharpness to the management of Academies. How will an Academy improve education for the children it serves? The unique combination of independent status, governance arrangements, sponsorship, leadership models, buildings and any specialism adopted all help to give students the broadest possible education. An Academy will also provide a curriculum designed to suit each young person’s needs. Why can’t we just have a new school? Academies offer increased choice for parents, new ways of educational thinking, and challenges. They will also play a key role in helping the regeneration of the city. Who pays for the upkeep and maintenance of an Academy? The Department for Children, Schools and Families funds an Academy, although it operates as an independent school. Are Academies bound by the same OFSTED rules and regulations as local authority schools? The DCSF has an agreement with OFSTED that they will carry out a monitoring inspection of new Academies in their fifth or sixth terms with a full published inspection within the third academic year. For a comprehensive list of questions and answers, please go to our website www.stoke.gov.uk/FAQBSF

dents at JUMPING FOR JOY... stu y celebrate em ad Ac el Bristol Brun ing. their new school build

21st century schools to transform whole city N

EW schools being built in Stoke-on-Trent under a £230 million investment programme will have farreaching benefits affecting the regeneration of the whole city.

Thirteen schools fit for the 21st century – including five ground-breaking academies – will play a central role in raising young people’s aspirations, improving students’ enjoyment of school, educational achievement and increasing skills levels to attract highPortfolio Holder for quality, high-paying Children and Young People’s employers to the area. Services Councillor Roger Ibbs It’s not a short-term visits Sandon High to see work vision, but one that has progressing on the first of the been developed by new generation of high schools politicians and officers in Stoke-on-Trent. within the local authority, who – accepting the fact that doing nothing is not an that new schools and academies have option – have been working over the past given young people a sense of ownership, five years towards transforming education that a new school is an investment in in Stoke-on-Trent. Now, with plans in their future. place to transform high schools in “Improvements in attendance and the city, the building blocks are in achievement at school have been place to make the dream a reality. dramatic. We need similar achievements Computer-generated plans for a in Stoke-on-Trent, and improving new school at Chell show how academic results at all levels is an iconic new buildings can not only important target. transform education, but also the “Stoke-on-Trent has proved it has surrounding neighbourhood. tremendous assets in friendly people and And while the effects on the a skilled and loyal workforce. environment will be substantial, “We will build schools which will the councillor in charge of driving provide better skilled, better qualified the programme forward explained people. This in turn will attract better that ambitions for changes to the quality jobs to the city. It’s easy to see way Stoke-on-Trent thinks and how important the investment in schools works are just as monumental. will be to the area’s future. The future of Portfolio Holder for Children education dovetails with the progress of and Young People’s Services, the ongoing regeneration of the area.” Councillor Roger Ibbs, said: “It’s Councillor Ibbs said detailed plans hard to say but the education would soon be unveiled for the new system has failed generations of schools and academies which will be built children in Stoke-on-Trent. in Stoke-on-Trent, including the facilities “Now we have an opportunity they will offer. Sandon High School – the to put it right. We need to radically first of the new high schools to be opened change the education system and in Stoke-on-Trent – is already up and providing 21st century facilities is just running, providing pupils with the highest part of it. “We have seen elsewhere in the country quality facilities.

It is hoped the first academy in the city will be open in around three years’ time. Councillor Ibbs added: “We have visited academies elsewhere in the country and seen at first hand the benefits to education and the wider community that these investments have made. “One head teacher, at an academy in one of the most deprived areas of Bristol, said pupils had made tremendous strides, mainly because the new facilities helped them feel like ‘special people’ with a ‘huge sense of pride.’ “I want to see that pride in Stoke-onTrent’s schools, and I am calling upon every member of staff and every parent to support our young people and encourage them to make the most of their schooling. “That spirit will pay dividends for the whole city in the future.” The next issue of Our City will ask students at one of the country’s new academies about the difference the investment has made to their education. How would you improve education in Stoke-on-Trent? Write to FREEPOST Our City or email ourcity@stoke.gov.uk

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SEPTEMBER 2008 Kier Stoke’s Brian Colley presents Smallthorne resident Diane Shaw with a bunch of flowers to celebrate completion of the 500th Decent Homes improvement since Kier took over in February.

New venture builds reputation

for customer service

T’S little more than six months since the launch of the £400 million joint venture that took over responsibility to maintain thousands of city council homes as well as dozens of public buildings in Stoke-on-Trent.

However, in that short time Kier Stoke, the company awarded the ten-year public/private sector contract, has already reached a Decent Homes milestone, and has achieved high levels of customer satisfaction. The joint venture took over responsibility for repairs and maintenance of the city’s 20,000 council-owned homes, as well as municipal buildings like the Civic Centre. More than 540 council employees transferred to Kier Stoke and the distinctive white Kier Group vans are now a familiar sight on the city’s roads. As part of their service, the company became responsible for continuing the

government’s Decent Homes programme under which kitchens, bathrooms, doors and central heating are brought up to standard. The aim of Decent Homes is to make every home in the country wind and weather tight and warm with modern facilities by 2010. Kier Stoke achieved its 500th successful Decent Homes installation – a smart new bathroom at the Smallthorne home of householder Diane Shaw. A team from Kier Stoke handed her a large bouquet of flowers as part of the celebration. Also tenants benefit from significant improvements to the performance of the 24hr Stoke-on-Call centre which is operated by the city council and initially handles calls concerning property maintenance and repairs. Over the last six months the contact centre has achieved major improvements in the service it provides, with most calls being answered in an average of 12 seconds. Kier’s own support staff is based at Stoke-

on-Call facility in Fenton where they liaise closely with the operators. This means Kier is in a position to respond promptly to calls reporting a problem with property for which the company is responsible. Councillor Joan Bell, portfolio holder for Community Safety and Housing, said: “Kier Stoke have had a really positive impact on the city, and at a time when we are actively trying to regenerate Stoke-on-Trent, they have been a valuable partner. They are constantly striving to improve an already efficient service and the fact that they've already reached a Decent Homes target demonstrates this. “I'm confident that they will continue to meet the needs of the people of Stoke-on-Trent in the future, as without them we would have a significantly tougher task in trying to make this city as good as we know it can be.” Tell us your experiences of Kier Stoke. Write to FREEPOST Our City or email ourcity@stoke.gov.uk

Simple message urges women: ‘Don’t fear the smear’ HEALTH services have come together in the campaign ‘Call to Action’ to encourage women to conquer their fear and have a smear. It is particularly aimed at women aged between 25 and 39 who have been invited for a smear test but did not attend the appointment. The campaign has been launched across Stoke-onTrent PCT and NHS North

Staffordshire to coincide with the West Midlands cervical cancer awareness month which went live in April 2008. The message is the same and simple – a few minutes spent having a smear test can prevent cervical cancer. Women are urged to contact their doctors or community clinic for an appointment, or take advantage of the walk-in

service at Ryecroft Health Centre, Newcastle. This free and confidential clinic is open every Thursday evening from 5.30pm to 7.30pm. Dr Mary Synnott, North Staffordshire PCTs Screening Co-ordinator, said: “Regular cervical screening prevents 75 per cent of cases of cervical cancer. “The NHS cervical

screening programme saves about 45 lives each year in the North Staffordshire area.” Recent data for the year ending March 2008 shows a further decrease in the percentage of young women screened. Dr Synnott added: “The message from all of us is clear – an early test is the best way to prevent cervical cancer.”

Our City

Scheme to reward bike safety POLICE officers are backing a national campaign aimed at rewarding safety conscious children. Helmet Watch, a Bicycle Helmet Initiative Trust (BHIT) scheme, will reward thousands of children who are spotted by officers wearing a helmet when cycling. The reward contains a puzzle tray or yo-yo along with a bookmark that provides information on the proper fitment of helmets. Children are then entered into a national draw for bigger prizes. The funding for the scheme has come from the winnings of Formula 1 driver David Coulthard and his fiancee Karen Minier. He said:“We are delighted at the innovative way in which the charity is getting out the message of bike safety to children. As a racing driver I am only too aware of the protection that helmets offer.”

Roll call simplified SIGNING up for the important electoral register is easier than ever for the city’s 190,000 residents – thanks to the introduction of a text message service. Other ways of signing up include returning a form through the post, on the internet or by phone. But residents are warned failure to sign up could put them at risk of identity fraud and financial difficulties. The new register will be available for inspection at Stoke-on-Trent’s Civic Centre from the start of December.

Equality action STOKE-on-Trent City Council is to produce its first Single Equality Scheme and Action Plan as part of its continuing commitment to engage all its employees and residents. It means the council can engage more effectively with everyone in the city. Consultation will allow everyone to have a say in how each group can be involved in how the city works on a daily basis, and how they can benefit from being more closely involved with the city council.

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SEPTEMBER 2008

PRIDE IN OUR PARKS... Park Keeper Kay Steele pictured at Longton Park with Dominic Phiri, 14, and Declan Hulme, 14, from Edensor Technical College.

Potteries poet pens an Ode to Civic Pride BURSLEM-born poet Mark Bailey, pictured, has taken up the Potteries literary mantle left by the likes of Arnold Bennett and Arthur Berry. The self-styled Trent Vale Poet and his funny, witty and moving verses are favourites in pubs, clubs and festivals around the city. Mark heard news that Our City had scooped the Best Council Publication title in this year’s Good Communications Awards, and wrote the following ode to civic pride: The sun shines over Hanley There’s a spring in people’s step The green shoots of recovery After years of neglect The indomitable spirit of the Potteries Is alive and true Home this city is to me A Stokie through and through.

Warm welcome given to

the parkie’s return K Wotta lotta bottles CHARITY walker Keith Meeson is planning a marathon trek to visit each of the 46 remaining bottle ovens in the Potteries. The walk of approximately 26 miles will start and finish at the Gladstone Pottery Museum and will raise cash for the Donna Louise Trust. Anyone who would like to support Keith can contact him on 07940 192718. I’m reminded of how the bottle ovens inspired some of the UK’s top cartoonists when they came to Stoke-on-Trent for their annual conference. One of the rib-tickling cartoons they produced is printed above.

Ho, ho, Lord Coe ST Peter’s High School Sporting Mentor Neil Gilson has 2012 Olympics Chairman Lord Coe in fits of laughter during his visit to the school. Neil reports: “I told him I’d only sent 350 emails and made 400 telephone calls to get him here, but it was worth it. It showed how much we wanted him to come to the school.”

AY Steele doesn’t mind being described as an example of an extinct species that is again flourishing amongst the flora and fauna in the parks of Stoke-on-Trent.

The former desk-bound administrator has swapped her office for the wide open spaces of Longton Park as one of the city’s 47 new Park Keepers – once a familiar sight to past generations who knew them as “Parkies.” The patrolling rangers have all but disappeared from Britain’s urban open spaces, but in Stoke-on-Trent they are back – this time in a practical 21st century uniform of green polo shirt and trousers, with a fresh role to involve local communities in ensuring that their local park is well cared for and offers something for everyone to enjoy. The new generation of dedicated Park Keepers, together with their teams of Park Keepers’ Assistants, replace the previous system of separate security staff and gardeners. And they do far more than keep their patch free of weeds and litter. Assistants who have no previous training in gardening have the chance to take an NVQ in Horticulture at Rodbaston College to help them in their new role. Kay, who has previously worked in a number of city council departments including planning and environment, said: “It’s a very different job today, and a very exciting challenge.” She’s particularly proud to be in charge of the city’s oldest and largest park, from where she also manages recreation grounds at Lightwood Road

Kay Steele shows Elected Mayor Mark Meredith around the park.

and Anchor Road. “My job is to encourage people to come into the park, and to improve and develop it as an amenity for everyone from very young children to the elderly.” Already she has formed a Park Partnership with residents’ associations, the local Rotary Club and traders in order to bring events like Victorian Markets, Tai Chi alternative therapy sessions and themed tree and ecology walks to Longton Park. Also planned are hands-on adult learning facilities like short courses in gardening and the environment – all designed to bring people back into their park, and it’s hoped bands will soon once again be playing in the park’s imposing bandstand. This summer saw the opening of a fantastic new play area with something for youngsters of all ages. Attractions include hexagonal swings, a 25m cable slide, a ship wreck and a solar powered electronic games i-play unit.

Under Kay’s management, Longton Park has teamed up with the Probation Service to give young offenders the chance to rehabilitate through carrying out community work in the park such as restoring benches, maintenance and clearing graffiti. In addition the park is being used to give young people on the Prince’s Trust programme a chance to discover new skills, and Kay works closely with the environmental charity Groundwork Stoke-on-Trent which donates its services to help improve and maintain the facilities in Longton Park. Like all her fellow Park Keepers, Kay can quickly deal with anti social behaviour or other unpleasant incidents by using her mobile to call the anti social behaviour helpline, the police or Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs). And she has powers to issue £50 fixed penalty notices for littering and dog fouling.

Safe and pleasant Kay said: “My aim is to involve the community in developing their park so it provides the facilities they want and provides them with a safe and pleasant environment that they can enjoy.” Councillor Debra Gratton, portfolio holder for Parks and Open Spaces, said: “Stoke-on-Trent is fortunate in having a host of beautiful public parks, and this welcome return of the Park Keepers and their Assistants will ensure that these open spaces will provide a safe, welcoming and well maintained environment.” ● Are you pleased to see the parkies return? Let us know by emailing ourcity@stoke.gov.uk or write to FREEPOST Our City.

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SEPTEMBER 2008

LOCAL MATTERS

Our City

In the wards of Burslem South, Northwood & Birches Head, Hanley West and Shelton.

Host of children’s artwork goes on show in inspired exhibition at city museum THE Potteries Museum and Art Gallery is hosting an exhibition of paintings and art work created by local school children for the fourth year running. Inspiring Art 4 features 16 schools who have each contributed their six best pieces of art from the academic year. Subject matter ranges from flowers and portraits to Greek pots, slavery and the work of famous artists.

Claire Sandys, one of the museum service’s Curriculum Development Officers said: “We hope that the children will be proud to see their work displayed in a public place. Perhaps it will inspire them and their classmates to value their own creative efforts and maybe become our artists of the future.” The exhibition runs until September 21 in the Lower Ground Floor Gallery. Admission is free.

Road improvement will reduce the jams ROAD maintenance works in Stoke-on-Trent will have a long term positive effect on congestion in the city. The improvements carried out at the Cobridge Road/Waterloo Road junction took two weeks to complete and have seen westbound traffic on Cobridge Road reduced to one lane. Adrian Knapper, Stoke-on-Trent City Council portfolio holder for Regeneration and Economic Development, said:“These were essential road works that in the long term will help improve traffic flows and benefit road users.”

Historic boiler in steam at museum

ICE TO SEE YOU... Bjorn the polar bear – a realistic robot animal – makes a summer appearance in Hanley Park to celebrate National Play Day.

Lifelike Polar Bear is cool star of play day park party A

HIGHLY realistic animatronic polar bear was just one of the attractions on show at an annual event in Hanley Park to celebrate children’s right to play.

Bjorn the Polar Bear, a life-like animated animal, complete with blinking eyes, sniffing nose, opening mouth and live sounds, taught children about the

environment. He was the star attraction at a dedicated full day of play activities organised by Stoke-on-Trent City Council as part of Play England’s national Play Day. Councillor Roger Ibbs, portfolio holder for Children and Young People’s Services, said: “It was jaw-dropping to see how life-like the polar bear is. “He is an animatronics creation, and there is a highly skilled performer inside

him operating all the realistic movements. “It is the first time we have had something like this in the city and is a great chance for children to be entertained.” The play day gave youngsters in the city a whole day of free play, and also included an assault course, small animal area, wild play activities, costume making and t-shirt making.

ETRURIA Industrial Museum Mill in Steam weekend saw the attraction’s historic steam boiler in action. The 1903 boiler is used regularly throughout the year to power ‘Princess’ the 1820s beam engine. The historic machinery, which was used to crush animal bone and flint for the pottery industry, can next be seen in operation on October 4 and 5, November 1 and 2 and December 6 and 7.

HEALTH CENTRES Bedford House

01782 425000

Burslem

01782 525700

Cobridge

01782 525893

Hanley

01782 425120

For more information and advice on health issues please call NHS Direct on

0845 46 47

or visit www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk or www.nhs.uk

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Our City S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 8

SEPTEMBER 2008

Our City

Classic fantasy is city’s

favourite read

Senior Customer Service Adviser Kirsty Steele helps customers in the Stoke-onCall contact centre.

Call centre steps up 24-hour performance A ROUND-THE-CLOCK contact centre at the city council has engaged itself in solving more problems for residents than ever, latest figures show. Stoke-on-Call, which is available 24-hours a day, seven days a week on 01782 234234, helped 2,450 more customers than usual contact the council during June. The statistics also show 38 seconds has been slashed off the average time it takes to answer a call and the amount answered has increased from 91.2 per cent to 95.6 per cent. Councillor Ross Irving, portfolio holder for Transformation, said: “Customer service is central to our transformation agenda. “A responsive and efficient contact centre is an essential part of this vision and I’m pleased with the progress made. “We want to improve further. Although we’re answering more than 95

per cent of calls, it still means that almost five per cent of customers are having difficulties contacting us by telephone.” In June, over 55,000 calls were taken, with the average answering speed exceeding industry averages. It now takes an average of 27 seconds to get through – compared to more than a minute back in March And only 0.01 per cent of the calls – which are managed by more than 100 people currently employed at the centre in Dewsbury Road, Fenton – resulted in a complaint being received. One regular user of the service, Trent Vale resident Kevin Lovatt, who has contacted Stoke-on-Call on six occasions over the past three months said:“I have seen the service improve since the first time I called. “Now I am no longer hanging on the phone and am able to get through to a human voice, which is the important bit.”

TOP 10 of the city’s favourite books has been compiled to mark the National Year of Reading. J.R.R. Tolkien’s fantasy trilogy The Lord of the Rings came out on top followed by Dan Brown’s best-seller The Da Vinci Code, with Alice Sebold’s novel The Lovely Bones in third place.

Thousands of people took part in the survey by filling in post-it notes located at public places throughout Stoke-onTrent. Work places, schools, colleges and university common rooms were all targeted as well as libraries, shops, coffee houses and pubs. A top 10 of teenagers books was also compiled (topped by Phillip Pullman’s Northern Lights) as well as a children’s top 10 (won by J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone). The event was just one of many activities that was arranged through National Year of Reading – an initiative aimed at encouraging people of all ages and abilities to pick up a book,

magazine or newspaper and start reading. Principal Librarian for Service Development Anne Mackey said: “National Year of Reading is about the enjoyment of reading. It doesn’t matter what you read or whether you are reading a book, newspaper, magazine or even a leaflet it can be fun, educational and informative. “The top ten survey really shows the diversity of books that are read by people in Stoke-on-Trent. More than 2000 people voted and in total 897 different titles were put forward. Recommendations included everything from The Bible and The Koran to a car repair manual and a fire safety guide!” Other events have included a Six Book Challenge, and the setting up of reading clubs. There are 10 public libraries and a mobile library service covering Stoke-on-Trent. Anyone who wants to learn more can log onto stoke.gov.uk/libraries. Books in the Wild competition to win a Wii games console – see page 14.

contracts and one anti social behaviour order were issued. There were 49 seizures of class A drugs, with 856g of heroin seized, 1.3 kilos of cocaine and eight class A offenders being brought to justice. A cannabis factory was closed down in Howard

Place, Shelton, and drug and alcohol advice was handed out during National Tackling Drugs Week. More and more residents are using the 24 hours a day anti social behaviour helpline to report incidents, tel. 0800 561 5610.

Kick Start cash pays for improvements HOMEOWNERS are being urged to claim a share of a multi-million pound fund to carry out essential repairs to their properties. The Kick Start initiative is offering homeowners the chance to tackle everything from leaky roofs to rotten windows. Councillor Adrian Knapper, portfolio holder for Regeneration and Economic

Development said:“This is great news. Kick Start is an established scheme now that has helped many people unlock some of the money tied up in their homes to pay for repairs. “This funding means more people can benefit.” For more information, contact Kick Start at Staffordshire Housing Association: 01782 749202.

TOP TEN Recommended Reads: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Comedian Nick Hancock loves to read in bed and his favourite book is The Great Gatsby.

9 10

The Lord of the Rings – J.R.R. Tolkien The Da Vinci Code – Dan Brown The Lovely Bones – Alice Sebold Pride and Prejudice – Jane Austen To Kill a Mockingbird – Harper Lee The Time Traveler’s Wife – Audrey Niffenegger A Child Called It – Dave Pelzer We need to talk about Kevin – Lionel Shriver The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time – Mark Haddon Ladykiller – Martina Cole

Above, Chloe Millington with her favourite book Felicity Wishes – Chloe loves a bedtime story. Inset right, her grandmother Janet Pemberton who also likes to read at bedtime.

A good book in a comfy spot is the perfect combination...

Crime ‘stats’ show success CRIME statistics release for a two month period in Stoke-on-Trent show significant successes from Staffordshire Police and partners. Talking CCTV is helping in the detection of public order offences and litter dropping, while 35 acceptable behaviour

Stoke-on-Trent’s

Peerzada Bukhari, of Normacot, who likes reading on trains and coaches, with his favorite book This Book Will Save Your Life.

OUR CITY asked a selection of library users in Stoke-on-Trent what their favourite books were and their favourite place to read... Father of four Peerzada Bukhari, 61, of Normacot, said his favourite read is This Book Will Save Your Life by A M Homes. “It’s a funny novel which has the feel good factor and makes me chuckle. My favourite place to read is travelling on the train or by coach. I find it helps pass the time, and the motion of the journey makes it a very relaxing experience. Pam Booth, who is an adult learner at Tunstall Neighbourhood College, has picked Charles Dickens classic Oliver Twist as her favourite book. The 53-year-old studied Dickens and his characters as part of her Key Skills in Communications course at the college. She said: “There is so much of Dicken’s own life experience in Oliver Twist – he is truly a remarkable character.” Pam’s favourite place to read is on the sofa at home. She said: “As long as there are no interruptions its is a very peaceful thing to do.”

WIN BOOK TOKENS

The Power brothers of Bentilee, left to right, Ronnie, Peter and Matthew – Ronnie likes to read in the garden on a sunny day, Peter in comfy chair and Matthew in the living room at home. Pam Booth enjoys relaxing on the sofa at home with a good book. Brothers Peter, Matthew and Ronnie Power, of Bentilee, share a passion for science fiction and fantasy books. Peter, 16, says The Lord of the Rings trilogy is his favourite read and he prefers to curl up with a book on a comfy chair. Matthew 13 says the Dr Who novel, Martha In The Mirror is

his favourite. He likes to read in the living room and despite his family moving about has no problem switching off. Ronnie, 11, picked Pikachu’s Vacation as his favourite book. He loves to read in the garden on a hot sunny day. College in the Community mature student Janet Pemberton just can’t put down the historical romance series by Josephine Cox. She is currently reading Take This Woman and loves nothing better than to read on her bed – during a

break from looking after the grandchildren. Janet, of Penkhull, said: “I didn’t read a lot in the past but took part in the Six Book Challenge earlier this year and am now hooked. Her granddaughter Chloe Millington, who is six and a half years old, picked the Felicity Wishes series by Emma Thomson as her favourite. Chloe, who attends St Thomas Aquinas Primary in Stoke, says she loves bedtime story time with her mum.

Potteries-born TV personality Nick Hancock said his favourite book was American classic The Great Gatsby by F Scott Fitzgerald. He said: “I first read it when I was 15 and have re-read it many times since then. In my mind it is the perfect book: there is not a paragraph, a sentence or word out of place.” Nick said that his favourite place to read was in bed. He said: “After a busy day it is a great way to relax – interruption free!”

THREE book tokens are up grabs in a competition for Our City readers to coincide with the National Year of Reading. The first prize is a token worth £100, with the runner-up winning a £50 voucher and third place receiving one for £25. To enter simply answer the following question: The Lord of the Rings trilogy has come top of the city’s recommended reads but which famous actor played Gandalf in the film versions? Send you answers to FREEPOST Our City or email: ourcity@stoke.gov.uk and include your name, address, and a daytime telephone number. The first three correct entries drawn out of the hat win the book tokens. The Editor’s decision is final and the winners will be announced in the next issue of Our City.

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Our City S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 8

SEPTEMBER 2008

Our City

Classic fantasy is city’s

favourite read

Senior Customer Service Adviser Kirsty Steele helps customers in the Stoke-onCall contact centre.

TOP TEN Recommended Reads: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Comedian Nick Hancock loves to read in bed and his favourite book is The Great Gatsby.

9 10

Above, Chloe Millington with her favourite book Felicity Wishes – Chloe loves a bedtime story. Inset right, her grandmother Janet Pemberton who also likes to read at bedtime.

A good book in a comfy spot is the perfect combination...

Stoke-on-Trent’s

Peerzada Bukhari, of Normacot, who likes reading on trains and coaches, with his favorite book This Book Will Save Your Life.

WIN BOOK TOKENS

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Our City S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 8

LOCAL MATTERS

Motorists advised how to stop sneak thieves MOTORISTS are being urged to step up vehicle security following a spate of opportunist crimes in Stoke-on-Trent. Staffordshire Police have issued the following safety advice to beat the opportunist thieves: ● Ensure your car is securely locked, including the passenger doors and sunroof ● Remove Sat Nav systems – along with their cradle from the windscreen – from the vehicle, and clean where the pad has been ● Remove the cover of radio/CD players – but do not leave it elsewhere in the vehicle ● Take all belongings into the house – even a bag of rubbish could convince a thief there is something worth stealing.

Western Edition

PC Ian Martin and PCSO Sue Wall in Northwood Park, where railings and a night time lock out have reduced anti social behaviour.

Lock out stops nuisance at night in popular park

Police contact numbers Western and City Centre It’s easy to get in touch with a local beat bobby or Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) via their digital airwave radios. All officers have individual collar numbers which are either four or five digits long. For officers with four digit numbers dial 08453 30 31 32 then enter ‘0’ followed by the four digit collar number of the officer you need to speak to. No ‘0’ is needed for officers with five digit collar numbers. If the officer is on duty, their radio rings like a mobile phone and you will be connected. If they are off duty or dealing with victims, witnesses or offenders, your call goes through to the officer’s individual voicemail box. Remember, in an emergency, dial 999. WESTERN

CITY CENTRE

NPU commander

Inspector 4465 Martin Brereton

Inspector 3509 Shaun Kerrigan

Burslem Police Station, Jackson Street, Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent, ST6 1AF

Tel. 08453 30 20 10 western.npu@staffordshire.pnn.police.uk Sgt 4602 Paul Clarke Sgt 3840 John Hazeldine Sgt 4336 Craig Burton BIRCHES HEAD PC 0848 Ruth Barlow PC 0794 Marie Evenson PCSO 8979 Michelle Chadwick PCSO 16225 Adrian Hemmings PCSO 8984 Rebecca Simon BURSLEM AND SNEYD GREEN WEST PC 0896 Tracy Adams PC 4718 Paul Rigby PCSO 8957 Justine Marsh PCSO 6440 Wendy Rigby CENTRAL FOREST PARK PC 805 Kate Beardmore PCSO 8987 Liz Old PCSO 8831 Katie Sullivan ETRURIA AND SHELTON NORTH PC 4632 Andy Mander PC 4389 Guy Wain PCSO 8995 Lucy Slater PCSO 16230 Vicky Smith LONGPORT AND MIDDLEPORT PC 4368 Andy Graham PCSO 6628 Tich Nyamayaro PCSO 8832 Adam van de Sande NORTHWOOD PC 3829 Ian Martin PCSO 9045 Sue Wall SHELTON SOUTH PC 4139 Dave Marshall PCSO 16299 Katie Brickley PCSO 6484 Lisa Donachie STAFFORDSHIRE UNIVERSITY PC 4483 Keith Emery

Hanley Police Station, Bethesda Street, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, ST1 3DR.

Tel. 08453 30 20 10 western.npu@staffordshire.pnn. police.uk Sgt 4151 Brevic Jones Sgt 4777 Jon Ward Sgt 4425 Phil White CITY CENTRE PC 4528 Darren Belfield PC 5106 Gareth Cheetham PC 0817 Kerry Grant PC 0726 Claire Harrison PC 0400 Diane Hoyle PC 4644 Rob Kelsall PC 4511 Richard Longmore PC 4634 Lee Robinson PC 5410 Steve Smith PC 0564 Lisa Trevor PC 4149 Jason Howell PSCO 16297 Ron Bagguley PCSO 16293 Mel Bartholemew PCSO 8516 Andrea Bolam PCSO 8955 Chris Hill PCSO 8457 Simon Holmes ETURIA ROAD CORRIDOR & FESTIVAL PARK PC 4871 Lucas Hackney PC 0605 Nicola Humphries PC 4452 Roger Poole PC 4133 Craig Russell PC 5208 Andy Sherratt PCSO 6602 Chris Cantrell PCSO 16227 Daniel Nettleton PCSO 8830 Chris Stone Special constables The Western Neighbourhood Policing Unit is supported by a team of 21 special constables headed by divisional officer Peter Fox. The City Centre Neighbourhood Policing Unit is supported by a team of 21 special constables headed by divisional officer Martin Goodwin.

NTI social behaviour has been ‘barred’ from Northwood Park thanks to after dark lock outs and seven foot high steel fencing, which has been put up around the pavillion.

The fencing was installed by the city council after residents living around the park complained about young people drinking under a canopy at the old changing rooms. Since then, police say anti social behaviour has all but disappeared from the park. Local beat bobby PC Ian Martin said: “For two weeks after the fencing went up, park staff locked the gates at five in the evening, and since then we

have had no calls reporting anti social behaviour. “Young people congregated under the canopy because it shielded them from the weather and from sight of people living outside the park after dark. “It is no longer an attractive place for them to gather. “The new fencing shows different agencies working together to resolve a local issue reported by residents. “We have listened to their reports of anti social behaviour and relayed them to the city council, who have responded with long term improvements.” ● Are you affected by anti social behaviour? Write to FREEPOST Our City, or email ourcity@stoke.gov.uk

Public artwork goes on show at museum ARTWORK by local talent is being judged ready for an exhibition at the Potteries Museum and Art Gallery. Artists were invited to submit their work in hope of being selected for the Open 08 art exhibition. The works, that came in the form of drawings, paintings, sculptures and ceramics, are now being assessed by a panel of independent judges ready for the exhibition. The show will be held at the Pottreries Museum and Art Gallery from September 27 to December 7 and all pieces will be on sale to the public. Jean Milton, Collections Officer said: “The local area features a huge range of creative talent, the Open 08 exhibition gives local people the opportunity to showcase their work in a prestigious area.”

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Imam working hard to promote harmony O

NE of the growing number of British-born and educated Muslim religious leaders in the UK is working with fellow Imams in Stoke-on-Trent to promote harmony between all ethnic and faith communities in the city.

Being a rarity is not a new experience for Shaykh Mohammed Hanif Haqqani, who is based at the Tunstall Mosque. The Sheffield-born cleric was the Prison Service’s first Muslim chaplain and he is also the first non-Christian Multi-Faith Co-ordinator for the Prison Service. He has been Muslim chaplain at HMP Dovegate, Uttoxeter, a pioneering Category B men’s prison where the only purpose-built therapeutic unit of its kind in the UK has been successful in significantly reducing the rate of re-offending. Fiercely proud of his South Yorkshire roots, Shaykh Hanif also speaks Urdu and Punjabi as well as Arabic and provides pastoral care on a national basis. His decade of work in the Prison Service was recognised four years ago when he went to Buckingham Palace to receive a Butler Trust award from the Princess Royal for his contribution to best practice in the Service.

‘‘

As someone who is British born and bred I am able to communicate with young people more effectively about wider issues that affect their lives.

’’

SHAYKH HANIF IMAM BASED AT TUNSTALL MOSQUE

Making sure city council work is scrutinis RESIDENTS in Stoke-on-Trent can rest assured that the work of the city council is being properly scrutinised and monitored. The city has six Overview and Scrutiny Committees, and a co-ordinating Management Committee, which were set up specifically to make sure that the council and its partners carry out their work in the way the public want. From reviewing the provision of allotments and library services, to examining road closure plans and children’s residential homes, the work of the Committees ranges over a wide area to monitor the performance of the council, representing

Advice website to help protect city’s children THE city’s Safeguarding Children Board has launched a new website to help everyone keep children and young people safe. The site provides advice covering a wide range of topics from practical information for parents and carers – like finding a suitable baby sitter or childminder – to support for children who may need help and who to contact if a child is worried or being hurt. The board was set up to make sure that agencies responsible for caring for children work together and share information and learn from experience. The website will also help with this as it will have information for professionals about spotting signs of abuse and what to do. You can visit the site at www.safeguardingchildren. stoke. gov.uk

£1.5m funding for new mental health project

Better understanding As well as his pastoral duties at the Tunstall Mosque, Shaykh Hanif is a member of the Imam and Mosque Advisory Network ((IMAN), which was set up with the support of the city council earlier this year. Together with the city’s other Imams he is working on how they can improve communication with young people in their local communities. He said: “As someone who is British born and bred I am able to communicate with young people more effectively about wider issues that affect their lives.” The Imam also meets many young people from other faiths and ethnic backgrounds with regular talks to students at schools and colleges, including the city’s Sixth Form College. Iftikhar Ahmed, IMAN Co-ordinator, said: “Shaykh Hanif’s appointment at the Tunstall Mosque coincided with the launch of the Network and I was pleased that Shaykh Hanif joined the Network. The Network’s role is to develop better understanding between communities in the city.” Do you think the Imams have a vital role in promoting community harmony in Stoke-on-Trent? Give us your views by emailing ourcity@stoke.gov.uk or write to FREEPOST Our City.

Our City

communities’ views, and ensuring services are provided in an acceptable way. After reading relevant documents, consulting residents and speaking to officers and service providers – often out in the field – Overview and Scrutiny Committee task groups make recommendations to the Council Executive. The individual Committees cover Children and Young People, Economic Development and Enterprise, Adult and Older People’s Wellbeing, Improving Communities and Transformation and Resources. In addition the Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee fulfils the

statutory function to look at planned services changes within National Health Service organisations in the city. Councillor Mark Davis, Chairman of the overall Management Committee, said: “Councillors bring to Overview and Scrutiny their different knowledge and experience. “They often ask the difficult questions and dig deep to find out if things are working properly. Overview and Scrutiny is vital in questioning the decisions of the Executive and pushing the Council to work better.”

STOKE-ON-TRENT Primary Care Trust has been awarded £1.5million to extend an innovative mental health project. The Healthy Minds Network is a partnership project with the charity Rethink and the University of York. It aims to help local people with mental health problems such as depression, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders to get access to psychological therapies. The extra money will be used to create 14 new full time posts and increase the number of patients the project can help by 55 per cent. It will fund a total of six therapists and eight case managers and will take the current number of specialists in the team to 30.

Top award for safety at work THE city council has won a prestigious award for its excellent work in health and safety. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents Merit Award highlights the city council’s exceptional record in work related health and safety measures in the past year.

Social care jobs database launch A SPECIALIST recruitment database matching job seekers to employment in social care is up and running in the city. Carematch offers a one stop shop for job vacancies and advice to people seeking work in the care sector. For more information check out www.carematch.org.uk

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12 Our City

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SEPTEMBER 2008

Public urged:‘Book now for free safety checks’ F

REE home fire safety checks are blazing ahead with over 1,000 people inviting Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service to help.

The MORE for Less campaign was launched in June along with a new FREEPHONE number for people to call to request their free checks. MORE For Less is about carrying out more free home fire risk checks to result in less deaths and serious injuries from accidental house fires. Julian Hilditch, Area Commander for Stoke-onTrent, said: “A home fire risk check involves firefighters visiting your home to give fire safety advice and fitting equipment such as smoke alarms. The visits are free of charge and it just requires one phone call to our FREEPHONE

number, 0800 0241 999. William and Carol Merrick from Birches Head were visited by Firefighters who fitted them two new smoke alarms, replaced a block adaptor with a strip lead extension lead and provided them with two energy efficient light bulbs. Mrs Merrick said: “The firefighters were very helpful and they gave us some useful safety advice. It’s helped to put our minds at rest and we feel much safer in our home now they’ve visited.” ● The FREEPHONE number, 0800 0241 999, is available 24/7. Once you have made a request for a home fire risk check the information gets passed on to the local fire station and they arrange a mutually convenient time to visit your property. Although checks to the elderly and vulnerable are prioritised, the service is open to everyone.

Life-saving course celebrates birthday AN initiative to save lives is looking for more people to take part as it celebrates its first birthday. The Pulmonary Rehabilitation Service offers an eight-week rehabilitation programme covering exercise, diet and how to manage medication for people who have had cardiac surgery, a heart attack or other similar heart conditions. It offers tailor-made exercise plans and specialist advice and support from a variety of clinical professionals. Sessions are free and held at: Willfield Neighbourhood College – Wednesday and Friday from 10am to 12noon and 1pm to 3pm; and Tunstall Floral Hall – Monday, 10am to 12noon and 1pm to 3pm, Thursday, 9am to 12noon. Anyone interested in attending the sessions should contact Kevin on 07872 677867.

Success on infection

Firefighters Paul Blackburn and Dan Keeling carry out a free home fire safety check for local residents William and Carol Merrick as part of Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service’s MORE for Less campaign.

BOILER ON ITS LAST LEGS?

FAMILY doctors and staff at the city’s main hospital have made a major contribution towards reducing hospital infections in the area by as much as 50 per cent over the last three years. GPs have heeded the advice from Stoke-onTrent Primary Care Trust about the need to prescribe fewer antibiotics – which can lessen resistance to so-called “hospital bugs” like MRSA and C.difficile. In fact the University Hospital of North Staffordshire has recorded a 62-day period without a single case of infection being reported.

Children’s Centres

DON’T GET CAUGHT OUT THIS WINTER

Recruitment Fair

GOLDSTRAWS carry out servicing from as little as £65.00

Are you looking for a new and rewarding career?

■ Repairs, Servicing and Boiler Installations

If so – please drop in and see us at:

■ All boilers serviced and cleaned, Glow-worm, Myson,Titan, Worcester, Alpha, Potterton etc

PORT VALE FOOTBALL CLUB WEDNESDAY 1 OCTOBER 2008 ANYTIME BETWEEN 10–8PM

■ Gas Repair Safety Certificates,

(Or at the Sentinel Jobs Fair – Quality Hotel, Hanley, 2 October 2008).

■ Home & Office Boilers serviced

We presently have more than 80 vacancies across our 13 children’s centres including:

■ Landlord Gas Safety Inspections

● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

■ Save Energy; we only supply and install high efficiency boilers with an efficiency rating of A

TO SEE HOW WE CAN HELP YOU THIS WINTER TEL: 01782 829955 www.goldstraws.co.uk

Senior Family Support Officers Family Support Officers Community Development Officers Administration & Receptionists Office Managers Cooks, Cleaners & Janitors Play & Learning Co-Ordinators Play & Learning Practitioners Children’s Centre Qualified Teachers

To find out more about children’s centre services you can book a free tour of Burslem Children’s Centre.

stoke.gov.uk

Please contact Lyn on 01782 238989 to book your tour place or to arrange a free crèche place if you need one.

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Ceramic treasures

go on show in Japan P

RICELESS pottery from Stoke-on-Trent’s world famous ceramics collection has been shipped to Japan to help celebrate the 250th anniversary of the first Wedgwood factory.

The Potteries Museum and Art Gallery lent around 50 valued pieces of Wedgwood to an exhibition that will travel to five different locations in the Far East until August 2009. The year-long display, which begins at the Gifu Museum of Ceramic Art at Tajimi-city, celebrates the anniversary of the first Wedgwood factory in Burslem. Three English museums donated items – The Potteries Museum and Art Gallery, Nottingham Museum and the Wedgwood Museum. Together they provide 150 out of the 250 pieces exhibited. Miranda Goodby from The Potteries Museum and Art Gallery acted as a chaperone on behalf of the three museums and ensured the pottery not only arrived safely, but was also exhibited correctly.

Our City

Good guys spell out fireworks danger SCHOOLCHILDREN across the city are to be given a hard hitting message about firework misuse in the run up to Bonfire Night. Operation Good Guy is a multi-agency initiative that will be delivered to schools by firefighters. Youngsters will get to see a presentation followed by a graphic demonstration which will highlight the dangers of fireworks. Graham Dow, from the Fire and Rescue Service Risk Reduction team, said: “Unfortunately many young people don’t realise the dangers that fireworks pose. “The demonstration we do involves putting a firework in the pocket of a dummy and then lighting it. “This clearly illustrates to the watching youngsters just how dangerous it is to carry fireworks around. “The event proved to be very successful last year, so we have teamed up with partners again, including Fireworks International who have very kindly donated the fireworks once again.”

Meals service for elderly people

Incredible enthusiasm She said: “The trip was very prestigious. Hopefully it will raise the profile of the museum and encourage not only tourism to the city, but buyers of Staffordshire pottery. “The enthusiasm for the exhibition is incredible. They really are excited to be displaying our items. The organisers Asahi Shimbun (an important newspaper company) and Wedgwood Japan are providing great coverage, often mentioning Stoke-on-Trent in their publicity.” Items lent include two plates that were made for the Prince of Wales and various cauliflower wares that all date back to the 18th Century. The Potteries Museum and Art Gallery are holding their own exhibition to celebrate the anniversary in August 2009. How important is Stoke-on-Trent’s ceramics heritage in today’s world? Give us your views by emailing ourcity@stoke.gov.uk or write to FREEPOST Our City.

Miranda Goodby with a rare 18th Century cauliflower moulded coffee pot similar to the ware she took out to Japan for the touring exhibition.

Jingle bells ring out message to thieves SHOPPERS are being urged to make sure Christmas does not come early for thieves by guarding their purses with jingling alarms. Following the success of Staffordshire Police’s Jingle Bells campaign last year the force relaunched the scheme on August 8. More than 2,000 bells – which attach to wallets and purses so that they jingle if a thief is trying to steal them – have already been given away around the area. And now the city’s Crime Reduction Panel are hoping to build on that success in the run-up to this year’s

festive season – with a fresh batch of 10,000 bells. Crime Reduction Officer Neil Whitmore said: “These simple devices can have a great effect on reducing the fear of crime for many people across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire. It’s been very well received and also serves as a reminder for people to keep their property safe – especially when they are out doing their shopping.” ● Pictured left with PC Neil Whitmore is Bradeley pensioner Josephine Broomfield, aged 61, who was one of the first this year to receive a set of anti-theft jingle bells from the police.

STOKE-on-Trent City Council is making people aware that they may be eligible for the Meals on Wheels or frozen meal service. Elderly people who are unable to cook or shop for themselves or anybody with a disability may qualify for the service.. The services can also be provided to help people live independently and for short periods to people who are, for example, recovering after a stay in hospital. Alternatively, people qualifying can receive a hot meal everyday – for which there is a set menu. However, alternatives can in most cases be provided. They are delivered Monday to Friday between 11am and 1pm – except Bank Holidays. To find out if you or someone you know is eligible for the service contact 0800 5610015.

Green schemes trigger growth ENVIRONMENTAL works to key green spaces and landscapes have improved large areas across Stoke-on-Trent. During the last five years Greening for Growth, which is the largest environmental regeneration programme in the West Midlands, has carried out millions of pounds of improvements in the city. The initiative has attracted visitors and investors – improving the quality of life for residents and restoring community pride. Greening for Growth Promotions and Liaison Officer Emily Robinson said:“There have been three themes to the improvements: eye catching landscape improvements, revitalised parks, and a green web of off-road routes for walking and cycling.” Overall, Greening for Growth has carried out improvements at eight key areas including Burslem, Central Forest Park, Hanley, Longton, and Westport Lake. For more information email greening.for.growth@ stoke.gov.uk

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SEPTEMBER 2008

Innovative ‘books in wild’ project launched A STATE-of-the-art games console is up for grabs in a competition being launched to encourage people to read more. The “Books in the Wild” project involves copies of Stoke-onTrent’s favourite adult and children's books being left in public places throughout the city. People will then be asked to read them and then post back a review to libraries. Everyone who sends in a review will be entered into a prize draw for a Nintendo Wii games console. The competition has been organised to mark National Year of Reading which is being celebrated in the city with a host of activities and events. More details about the competition are available on the city council's website at stoke.gov.uk/libraries

Drugs dens closed

SHUT DOWN... Police Constables Dave Ellis, left, and Roy Barber outside the former drugs den sealed for three months under Operation Nemesis.

Offenders are jailed while more users seek treatment

MAJOR multi-agency operation has seen more than 200 drug dealers arrested as it continues to clean-up Stoke-on-Trent and provide more clinics for drug users affected by the crackdown.

Operation Nemesis, which has been running since last September, has now seen more than 150 years of jail time dished out to offenders across the city. And because the supply chain has been cut, more users are coming in for treatment – leading the PCT to invest in making more services available. Graham Urwin, Chief Executive of Stoke-on-Trent Primary Care Trust, said: “The multi-agency working approach of Operation Nemesis continues to be a success and a priority for us. “I promised when this operation started that if demand increased from people seeking help from drug addiction, then we would invest in making more services available.

“We have just opened our second additional clinic at the beginning of August in response to increasing demand which can cater for a further 60 people wanting to fight drug addiction.” The Community Drug Service can be contacted on 01782 425100 and offers a free confidential service for drug users, their families and friends. The extra clinics are as a result of the success of the police on the front-line of the operation. As part of their ongoing work, officers have closed problem houses in Fegg Hayes, Penkhull, Bentilee and Joiner’s Square – where evidence revealed the addresses had been used in the taking of Class A drugs. Superintendent Bernie O’Reilly said: “Operation Nemesis is unique because it is about dealing with the whole problem. “It is a first class example of partnership working. Enforcement alone is not the answer but it does have an important place, often as the catalyst for other work to begin. It’s about generating high levels of confidence in the community.”

Views sought on NHS constitution RV

FIRE

ICE

ORDSH AFF IR ST

N E VI D R E S C U E S R SU O N I TA F O R T I

THE Government is to introduce a ground-breaking constitution for the National Health Service to secure the NHS for the next generation. The proposed constitution will record in one place what the NHS in England does, what it stands for and should live up to, and how decisions affecting it should be made. It will collect together

important rights for patients, the public and staff – and state how they are enforced, and what to do if you do not get what you should. Stoke-on-Trent Primary Care Trust wants to hear your views on the proposed constitution. After we have listened, the NHS Constitution will be finalised by the Government and published

next year. You have until October 17th to respond. Read more about the proposed constitution and give your views online at www.stokepct.nhs.uk/voice/ current_consultation/1 or come along to Stoke-on-Trent PCT’s Health Fayre at the King’s Hall, Stoke, on September 30th between 12.30pm and 4.30pm.

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SEPTEMBER 2008

Our City

LOCAL MATTERS

Western Edition

Big clean up gives jobseekers a leg up Y

OUNG people have been given a leg up in the jobs market by taking part in a community clean up project.

The 12 week scheme saw a group of 16-18 year olds gather rubbish and cut back overgrown hedges and shrubbery in the western area of the city. They also targeted public parks, replacing steps, laying gravel and repairing holes and cracks in the pathways. Project Manager Dan Canavan said it was hoped the initiative would reduce fly-tipping and even affect drug use in the area by cleaning it up. He said: “People have taken drugs and dumped rubbish in these areas because they could hide behind the overgrown vegetation. Now they will have nowhere to hide.” Among the rubbish to be gathered by the truckload were abandoned beds, sofas and television sets. Dan said: “The project has revealed the natural beauty of a lot of the environments we worked in, and this will discourage flytippers in the future. The volunteers carried out the work as a bridge to formal training and jobs. More than 150 employers in the city are linked to the project, offering apprenticeships in trades like landscaping, construction and manufacturing. Alongside the manual element of the work,

Ashley Bailey helps with the big community clean up.

Police clamp down on allotment crime POLICE officers gave advice to green fingered residents to help battle allotment crime. Officers from the Western Neighbourhood Policing Unit (NPU) encouraged residents in Middleport, Cobridge and Burslem to keep an eye on their allotments during the summer months. Recent reports of shed break-ins and criminal damage at allotment sites meant officers were keen to clamp down on further problems. Advice included taking any valuable items home, using good locks on garden sheds and personalising any tools so that they are difficult to sell on. PCSO Adam Van De Sande said:“Allotment Watch ran for the entire summer. “We wanted to encourage allotment holders and people who live nearby to keep an eye on the sites and alert us to any suspicious activity.”

YOUR COUNCILLORS Burslem South

DEBRA GRATTON (Lab) 07917 854981 debra.gratton@ stoke.gov.uk

JAVID IQBAL NAJMI (Lab) 07846 879920 javid.najmi@ stoke.gov.uk

MOHAMMED PERVEZ (Lab) 07919 917632 mohammed.pervez@ stoke.gov.uk

Northwood and Birches Head

volunteers can also boost their literacy and numeracy skills to bring their CVs up to scratch. Dan added: “It targets young people who have begun to drift, being out of employment, education and

Party in the park success A PARTY in Forest Park was hosted by community groups in the Burslem South area. They staged a day of fun and games with mini olympics, fire walking, the alternative dog show, music and dance, raffles and much more. The day was a great success despite the weather. Ethel Harris, Chair of Greenfields Residents' Association, said: "We had a wonderful day and a great time was had by all. “I wish to thank all those that supported us, the Western AIT team, our local councillors, the rescue services and all our sponsors. It shows what can be achieved when everyone works together."

training. Working in this way for their local communities puts them back on the career ladder.” The clean up scheme is an offshoot of the Homeworks Project, which enables young people to paint and

decorate the homes of vulnerable residents and look after their gardens. Both initiatives are partnerships between Stoke-on-Trent City Council and Shelton-based Project Management.

Attractive gateway AN “eye-catching” gateway into a major city regeneration development has been officially launched. The city council portfolio holder for Economic Development Adrian Knapper unveiled a series of circular stones, bound gravel and earthbound landscaping at land off Joiners Square roundabout, Hanley. The landscaping work has transformed an area of

cleared housing and will act as the entrance to the City Waterside development area, which is creating new homes in the south of Hanley. It will also form a key link into the city centre. Councillor Knapper said: “The landscaping work is at a prominent route into the city centre and it has been important to create a feature that acts as an attraction to the area.”

DAVE SUTTON (Lib Dem) (01782) 542998 dave.sutton@ stoke.gov.uk

JEAN BOWERS (Lib Dem) (01782) 262613 jean.bowers@ stoke.gov.uk

KIERAN CLARKE (Lib Dem) (01782) 788010 kieran.clarke@ stoke.gov.uk

Hanley West and Shelton

ZULFIQAR ALI (Lib Dem) 07838 262062 zulfiqar.ali@ stoke.gov.uk

MOHAMMAD IQBAL (Lab) (01782) 266893 mohammad.iqbal@ stoke.gov.uk

ALAN JOYNSON (Lab) (01782) 413683 alan.joynson@ stoke.gov.uk

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LOCAL MATTERS

Roadshow boosts home security ROADSHOW sessions helped to improve the security and wellbeing of people and their homes. The Safe and Sound Homes scheme brought together Staffordshire Police and Fire Service, Kickstart, Warm Zone, Beat the Cold and Age Concern to advise the public on how to make their homes safer. The week-long roadshow visited Hanley, Bentilee, Stoke and Tunstall. Councillor Joan Bell, portfolio holder for Community Safety said: “It’s essential everyone understands how important it is for their home to be safe and secure. So many people are unaware of the simple dangers that can come of putting off that next improvement. “The roadshow has made people more responsive to the measures they can take to help themselves.”

Mobility help round the shops A CITY centre mobility scheme is urging shoppers to get mobile and use their services. Shopmobility lends equipment to those with temporary or permanent limited mobility so that they can shop with ease. Located at the bottom of the Potteries Shopping Centre car park, the city council funded scheme accepts only donation as payment. Offering 30 scooters, 12 powered wheelchairs and 14 manual wheelchairs, Shopmobility is currently used by between 20 and 30 people a day. Booking is essential. For more information contact Shopmobility on 01782 233333.

Western Edition

Security stepped up to make park even safer V

ISITORS can now feel safer than ever while enjoying the great outdoors of Central Forest Park in Hanley – thanks to a new package of measures designed with help from the local community.

Recently introduced amenities such as a new play area, skateboard park and landscaping have attracted large numbers of people into the park – but with this success has come some incidents of crime and anti social behaviour. To tackle these problems the Police, in partnership with the city council’s Neighbourhood Management Team and other agencies, formed a Task and Finish group which consulted with residents’ associations, park users and other members of the community in order to identify their main concerns. These were anti social behaviour (predominantly under-age drinking and drinking by over-18s in the park at weekends especially), litter, robbery (usually of mobile phones and iPods) and thefts of unattended property such as bags from the skateboard park. As a result a digital clock has been installed in the park. Funded by the Stoke-on-Trent Market group of traders, the clock will help prevent mobile phones being snatched by thieves who use the ploy of asking the owner for the time before snatching the handset. An Alcohol Restriction Zone, banning the consumption of alcohol within the area, should hopefully be implemented by the end of September. CCTV surveillance has been increased with talking cameras and lighting has been installed on pathways. Supporting all these measures is an increased police presence. At least two Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) are always in the vicinity and patrols have been stepped up. Sergeant Paul Clarke, Community Sergeant for Western Neighbourhood Policing Unit, said: “Levels of crime and nuisance were never a major problem in Central Forest Park, but what we have done is designed to reduce the fear of crime and yobbish behaviour and make the park an even safer and nicer environment for everyone who uses it. “Added to and supporting these measures has seen an increase in Police Officers and Community Support Officers on patrol throughout the week. Crime and anti social behaviour has been greatly reduced as a result of the increased presence.” ● Do you feel safe in Central Forest Park, Hanley? Write to FREEPOST Our City or email ourcity@stoke.gov.uk

Police Community Support Officers Katie Sullivan, left, and Lisa Donachie who are part of an increased police presence in Central Forest Park.

Children amazed by story teller’s tales of greek legends A RENOWNED storyteller spent the day recounting ancient tales at the City Central Library. Xanthe Gresham spun tales of deities such as Hecate, the goddess of blackness and beginnings – who was thrown off Mount Olympus for refusing to hail

Zeus as her master. A professional storyteller, Xanthe attracted critical acclaim for her work in recounting some of the most exciting tales from Greek legend and factual stories from history. Councillor Joan Bell, portfolio holder

Our City is published by a partnership of Stoke-on-Trent

City Council, Stoke-on-Trent Primary Care Trust, Staffordshire Police and Staffordshire Fire and Rescue. Contact us by mail at FREEPOST Our City or by email at ourcity@stoke.gov.uk or telephone 01782 232900

for Libraries said: “Xanthe has always attracted a lot of interest in her storytelling. “Her visit to the library in Hanley attracted not only new fans but old ones who wanted to relive the unique experience of her performances.”