Our City Issue 29 by i•creation

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Stoke-on-Trent

ISSUE 29: OCTOBER 2012

Our City NO COLD CALLER S! PLEASE LEAVE DO NOT RETUAND RN Under the Con sumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008, it can be an offence to refuse to leav e a property when asked to do so.

INSIDE Cut-out Cut-out window window signs signs to to keep keep you you safe safe at at home home Pages 7 and 8

App’s the way to view it Hi-tech treasure hunt makes most of Hoard experience Page 2

YOU

NEED YOUR CHILDREN’S CENTRE

Find out why on Page 11 THERE ARE FREE GIFTS TOO!

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Facts show council is delivering on its promises By City Council Leader Councillor

MOHAMMED PERVEZ THE city council speaks with passion about its mission to improve quality of life in Stoke-on-Trent. But this issue of Our City shows we are not just talking the talk... we are definitely walking the walk. Take a look at the 21st Century schools which opened their doors to students for the first time this term. Five of the Building Schools for the Future projects that for years were only a dream are now a reality. The smiles on the faces of students and staff show how much of a difference the £270 million of investment will make to these young people’s futures. The city council publicises its mission to give our young people the best start in life and provide facilities to boost educational achievement... we are delivering on that promise. In the last 18 months the city council has spoken of its priority to create jobs to boost the economy, rolling out the red carpet to create the right environment for business. Take a look on the page opposite to see the facts... over 1,100 jobs created in the last 12 months, hundreds of them directly as a result of the city council’s work to attract inward investment. Over 700 new businesses have started up during that time. The Mandate for Change is not just a paper exercise or talking shop.The commitments we have made are paying off for the people of our city, and we will never take our foot off the gas. Looking forward, our City Centre vision includes driving the Central Business District as a great place for business and employment. Moving the council’s offices there will not only be a shot in the arm for the City Centre, but it will also enable regeneration of our other town centres, especially for Stoke. We are delivering all this against continuing financial pressures which are showing no sign of easing. However, rest assured we are taking a responsible approach to managing our budgets while also investing in our city’s future.

Public urged to vote in important policing election RESIDENTS across Staffordshire and Stokeon-Trent will get the chance to vote for their first ever Police and Crime Commissioner later this year. In November, elections will take place across England and Wales to appoint to the new roles, which will be accountable for how crime is tackled in their police area. Police and Crime Commissioners will be responsible for a large range of decisions, affecting everything from CCTV and street lighting to drug dealing and gang violence. The role will also aim to bring

communities closer to Staffordshire Police, giving them a single point of contact and an opportunity to voice any concerns directly to an elected official. Formal nominations of candidates can be made between 8 October and 12 noon on 19 October 2012. The first elections of Police and Crime Commissioners will take place on 15 November 2012. Paul Hackney, Police Area Returning Officer, said:“These elections will form an important part of how Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent is policed in the future.

Interpretation Officer Cathy Shingler uses one of the magnifying glasses supplied to visitors to take a close look at one of the Staffordshire Hoard treasures.

HREE years on from the discovery of the Staffordshire Hoard, visitors are now being treated to the largest exhibition of its pieces so far.

The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery has more than 225 items on display, and attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world. Exhibition spaces have been enhanced with the addition of iPads showing information and high-resolution photographs of artefacts on display. Interpretation Officer Cathy Shingler said: “It is now three years since the Hoard was discovered and people are amazed by what is on display. Residents are extremely proud to have it in their city. “Our exhibition runs for a further year and I would urge people to come along. We are receiving incredibly positive feedback.” Artefacts include parts of weapons and crosses, many of them adorned in gold and garnets and of quality suitable

Biggest ever Hoard show draws crowds Free hi-tech treasure hunt MUSEUM visitors can go on their own treasure hunt with a new mobile phone application, or “app”. The free Huntzz app guides people around the Staffordshire Hoard: Dark Age Discovery exhibition at The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery and the City Centre, combining clues, information on the Hoard and details of the people who have helped to make Stoke-on-Trent and The Potteries famous. The app can be downloaded from: www.visitstoke.co.uk/Staffordshirehoard.aspx COVER PIC: our cover shows local historian Fred Hughes and his grandson Liam Hughes, aged five, enjoying the app. for royalty of Anglo-Saxon times. Magnifying glasses are on hand to give visitors a closer look at items and replicas have been made of some of the most

Live webcast of full council meetings Our City is printed on recycled paper. When you have finished with this publication please help the environment by passing it on to a friend or recycling it.

“It’s important that as many people as possible take part in the voting process, to give the winner a clear mandate on how the community wants the area policed. “It’s also an opportunity for people to elect a directly accountable and accessible official who will have a real influence on how crime is dealt with in their area.” ● For more information on the Police and Crime Commissioner elections, visit stoke.gov.uk/ elections, or find out more at www.homeoffice.gov.uk.

MEETINGS of the full council can now be viewed online. To see and hear the debates and decisions which affect life in Stoke-on-Trent, visit stoke.gov.uk and click on webcasting. A list of dates and times of council meetings and committee meetings can be found on our website at stoke.gov.uk/meetingdates

popular pieces, which visitors can touch and examine the detail on. Favourite items so far include an exquisitely decorated

seahorse, which may once have been a shield decoration. Pieces will change over the course of the exhibition, which runs for another year until September 2013. An artist has also been commissioned to create 10 sculptures of animals featured in the Hoard. Funded by the Arts Council England, they are due to go on display by the end of October. Visitor Derek Wilde, 42, from Sandyford, said: “To have 200 pieces like this on our doorstep is amazing. I appreciate some people won’t read information boards, so it is good to have an interactive way of viewing the Hoard.” Bob Biddulph, 62, who travelled from Jersey to see the exhibition, said: “It is incredible.”

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

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OCTOBER 2012

Red carpet leads to hundreds of

jobs and start-ups M

ORE than 1,100 jobs have been created in the city over the last 12 months – with at least half due to the city council’s Mandate for Change.

Approximately 450 of these are through the council’s inward investment strategy, which rolls out the red carpet treatment to encourage businesses from outside the area to relocate to Stoke-on-Trent. The other 700 posts are small business start-ups in a range of professions from window cleaning through to new digital ICT companies. Economic Development Manager Jonathan Phipps said: “Out of these 700 start-ups, 120 are directly attributed to city council programmes and assistance, such as our team of enterprise coaches and start-up grants.

Dedicated hotline “Mandate for Change has made a difference and it has helped to ring fence funding to continue these kind of projects into the future. “The number of start-ups has considerably increased compared to previous years but we are continually looking to improve the figures.” A dedicated hotline has been set up by the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Local Enterprise Partnership to assist people looking to set up in business. By calling the number – 0300 111 8002 – people are referred to enterprise coaches who provide tailored advice or signpost them to other expert help. Meanwhile, the Inward Investment Team’s proactive approach towards encouraging companies to

Hairdresser Melanie Adams, of Tunstall, who has launched the Hair and Beyond salon with the help of the Citywide Grant fund. Inset, Former bookmakers assistant Denise Keen, of Norton, whose children’s clothes retail business, Jaynise, has taken off with the help of the grant funding. do business in the area is paying dividends – not only for the city but the whole of Staffordshire. John Willis, Strategic Manager, Investment Development, said: “The 450 jobs were created by companies moving to Stoke-on-Trent and the surrounding area. “We have worked intensively to support companies considering making an investment in the area and to persuade them that this is the right location for their business. “We explain about the area’s connectivity in terms of rail and road communications, the strength of the local workforce as well as the presence of a number of major companies and supply chain opportunities this creates. “Members of our team have spoken to around 750 companies over the year continually promoting these

key strengths. We are gaining a reputation for being good for business and for having a council dedicated to opening doors to help companies seize opportunities.” In addition, major City Centre projects such as the new bus station, the City Sentral shopping centre and the Central Business District will have a huge impact on inward investment too. Key anchor tenants have already been secured for City Sentral, including Marks & Spencer and Vue Cinema, but experts believe this is the tip of the iceberg. John added: “City Sentral will be a game changer for the city and surrounding area. It will make it one of the top 30 locations in the UK for retail and will encourage people to live and work here. “It will certainly make it a more attractive proposition in terms of inward investment.”

‘Daring’ homes scheme attracts families HUNDREDS of people have shown interest in an innovative housing programme which will see empty homes renovated and brought back to use. The £3 million scheme, believed to be a UK first, will see two clusters of 124 long-term empty homes of which 35, which are councilowned homes, will be sold for a nominal price of as little as £1. New owners will also be offered substantial interest-free loans of up to £30,000 so they can make essential repairs and bring the properties up to Decent Homes standard. The initiative could especially help working families who live and work in Stoke-on-Trent, are on low income and have already struggled to get a mortgage.

The programme will target two areas in Stoke-on-Trent – Portland Street in the City Centre and Bond Street in Tunstall. Councillor Janine Bridges, the council’s Cabinet member for Housing, Neighbourhoods and Community Safety, said: “This is a daring and innovative scheme which we are developing to bring empty properties back into use and improve living standards, a key goal of the city council’s Mandate for Change.”

Advice given on drawing up petitions CAMPAIGNERS have been urged to ensure they include all the necessary information before submitting petitions to the city council. Petitions can be about any council services or issues, but must include information on what people want the council to do, as well as the name, full address and signature of those who support it. Nathan Dawkins, Democratic Services Officer, said:“Petitions with at least 100 signatures allow the organiser to speak at full council for three minutes, and those with 5,000 or more signatures will trigger a full debate and the organiser can speak for five minutes, but all the right information needs to be there.” Paper and electronic petitions are acknowledged within 10 days, and investigated by officers. ● For more information, call 01782 233540 or visit stoke.gov.uk/petitions

Food outlets, such as restaurants, takeaways and pubs, are inspected by food safety officers from Stoke-on-Trent City Council to check that their hygiene standards meet legal requirements. Zero means urgent improvement necessary, five means very good. To find out about the hygiene standards of your local food outlets visit food.gov.uk/rating or download the app.

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Taxi drivers protected from sharks TAXI drivers are receiving help as part of work to stop people borrowing from illegal money lenders. The city council has become one of the first authorities in the country to use money taken from convicted loan sharks to add cash bonuses to credit union saver accounts for taxi and private hire drivers. Research shows the drivers are prone to becoming victims to loan sharks. The scheme allows them to save to pay for running costs, obtain credit from mainstream sources and reduce their having to carry large amounts of cash in their vehicles by being able to make deposits into their savings accounts late at night. The first 15 drivers to sign up were given a £15 bonus if they continued to save for six months. Karen Jones, Investigation and Consumer Protection Manager, said: “This scheme will help to support our local taxi traders, preventing them from falling prey to loan sharks and providing a safe system for takings to be deposited. “We welcome this initiative and will be encouraging taxi drivers in the city to consider how it can be of benefit to them.”

Twin city’s mayor visit THE Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent’s twin city was given a tour of important sites during a three-day visit to the area. Mayor Siegfried Balleis, from the Bavarian city of Erlangen, in Germany, was shown around the Centre of Refurbishment Excellence in Longton; Wade Ceramics in Etruria; and the research and development company, Ceram in Penkhull. He was also taken to see the Staffordshire Hoard: Dark Age Discovery exhibition at the Potteries Museum & Art Gallery and visited the engineering facility at Stoke on Trent College’s Burslem site. Before returning home, Mayor Balleis gave a lecture to the business community on his work to make Erlangen one the lowest unemployment rate and welfare rates in Germany.

Street name will help Lidice

to live forever

permanent tribute will be paid to victims of the Lidice tragedy when a street in Stoke-on-Trent is named after the Czech Republic village.

The access road to the new bus station in the City Centre will be called Lidice Way (pronounced Li-dit-se). Its name has been announced as part of events to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the launch of ‘Lidice Shall Live’, a fundraising campaign by people from Stoke-on-Trent to rebuild the village after it was razed to the ground and hundreds of families were massacred on the orders of Adolf Hitler.

Dramatic results Councillor Ruth Rosenau, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Planning and Transportation, said: “Stoke-on-Trent should be proud of its historic link and ongoing relationship with Lidice. Naming a street by our modern, landmark transport hub – next to the Victoria Hall where Barnett Stross rallied support for the village – is a lasting, very visible way of marking that special friendship.”

Mayor of Lidice Veronika Kellerová addresses the concert audience.

A delegation from the village – including three survivors and Mayor of Lidice Veronika Kellerová – visited Stoke-on-Trent for the anniversary to celebrate the strong links between the two places. During their five-day visit, they were given a special preview of the Barnett Stross and Lidice exhibition at the Potteries Museum & Art Gallery, were shown a Lidice documentary by local film-maker Inspired Film & Video, took part in a question

New service will support pupils in primary schools VOLUNTEERS are needed for a new service for primary age pupils in Stoke-on-Trent which aims to help younger children recognise and protect themselves from all forms of abuse – including bullying. The city’s Safeguarding Children Board is supporting the innovative new ChildLine Schools Service, which aims to help nine to 11 year olds understand what abuse is, how to protect themselves and how to seek help if they need it – including through the ChildLine Freephone number (0800 1111). Anyone volunteering will be subject to a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check. Research undertaken by the NSPCC shows that the majority of children who contact ChildLine for advice, information and support are over 11 years old, though the majority of children on a child protection plan are under 11 and may find it more difficult to speak up. Volunteers will be central to the delivery of this new service. They will be trained to deliver safeguarding assemblies and interactive workshops in primary schools across the Potteries, should have good communication and presentation skills and be comfortable talking to children. They need to be available during school hours of 9am to 3pm. All materials will be provided and volunteers will be given regular training and support. ● To find out more about the new ChildLine Schools Service and volunteering opportunities visit www.nspcc.org.uk/ www.safeguardingchildren.stoke.gov.uk schoolsservice

A performer from the Florence Brass Band.

and answer session and signed a Memorandum of Understanding between Stoke-on-Trent and Lidice. The visitors were also among guests at a concert in the Victoria Hall featuring performances from the Ceramic City Choir and the Florence Brass Brand and guest speakers including the Lord Mayor Councillor Terry Crowe and historian Fred Hughes, who

has written a book on Lidice, titled Roses to Ashes. After the concert, a plaque was unveiled at the Victoria Hall to honour campaign leader Sir Barnett Stross, who in 1942 enlisted the help of coalminers to raise £32,000, and the generosity of people from Stoke-on-Trent. The Lidice Story at the Potteries Museum & Art Gallery runs until 4 November.

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OCTOBER 2012

Proud force history celebrated in

21st Century style TAFFORDSHIRE Police is celebrating its 170th anniversary by becoming the first force in the UK to chart its history using the social networking website Facebook.

People can now look at policing across the decades by visiting a dedicated site at www.facebook.com/ staffordshirepolice and examine the Force’s timeline. Users can concentrate on a particular period or scroll all the way back to when the first (Metropolitan) police force was established in 1829 by the then Home Secretary Sir Robert Peel – who lived in Tamworth. People can experience a wealth of history including landmark documents about setting up local policing in the 19th Century. Locally, the County Police was established in 1842. Shortly after, people from the Potteries’ towns called for their own local force stretching from Goldenhill to Trentham. They asked for an Act of Parliament to be passed to enable its establishment and

suggested a local tax of 6d (old pennies) in the pound to be levied to pay for it. The Hanley Borough Police was formed in 1870 and in 1910, following the Federation of the Six Towns, the Borough of Stoke-on-Trent Police came into being. Visitors can see a host of memories associated with Staffordshire Police – such as when the first dog branch was established and why there was a mounted branch. People can also read about film star William Shatner, who famously played Captain Kirk in the Star Trek TV and film series, throwing his weight behind the force’s SPACE scheme in the 1980s. Staffordshire Police Chief Constable Mike Cunningham said: “The website includes a wealth of history and chronicles the evolution of the Staffordshire Police force over its 170 year history. “There are many photographs including officers in a variety of uniforms as they changed over the years, police cars, police stations and the first three dogs with their handlers – who formed the first dog branch.”

Everyone can feel the buzz! Why our city is definitely going places By City Council Chief Executive

John van de Laarschot IT is hard to believe such a spectacular summer of Olympic sports has come to an end. But here in Stoke-on-Trent, we carried on the sports theme with yet another amazing event – the arrival of the Tour of Britain. For the fifth year, and the only stage to have a start and finish, our city was host to cycling super star legends like former World Champion Mark Cavendish and Tour de France and Olympic gold medal winner Bradley Wiggins. It just can’t get any better than that, except it did, when Wiggo said:“It’s a great race in Stoke-on-Trent and I am happy to be here.” As a city we need more compliments like this from world famous people and businesses. We want people shouting about how fantastic Stoke-on-Trent is. Our Mandate for Change is starting to deliver, to make a real difference. Multi-million pound projects to regenerate the City Centre are under way and will benefit people living and working in the whole of Stoke-on-Trent with the potential to create thousands of high quality jobs.

Above... PC Dave Barrow with a personal computer system and Bodycam which is part of a modern police officer’s kit.

Dramatic results

Left, Police officers pictured in the 19th century.

Anyone who has a photograph or story they would like to add to the Staffordshire Police timeline should email it to yourimages@staffordshire.pnn.police.uk

Right, one of the first County Constables John Hayes Hatton, in 1842.

Self-help books give support on mental health issues THE city’s Library Service is working with health partners to provide books and information which can help people living with mental health issues. The Books on Prescription scheme aims to increase access to psychological therapies and self-help guides. The project forms part of a package of treatment to deal with a range of common mental health problems. Books cover topics ranging from anxiety, depression

Our City

and panic and can be borrowed free from any Stoke-on-Trent library. Library Health Information Development Officer Richard Marsland said:“About one in four people seen by their GP has a mental health problem and many local people are referred to the Healthy Minds Network. “The self-help books have been recommended by mental health practitioners and can help people to understand their conditions and learn to

manage their problems at their own pace – and in privacy. The books can also be useful to help relatives, friends or carers understand a condition that a loved one may be suffering from.” Copies of the books are available in the Health Zones of all city libraries. Books and leaflets on health and well-being are also on offer along with free internet access to use resources and sign-posting to self-help and support groups.

Major high street names such as TK Maxx, Superdry and Topshop, are already being lined up for the £350 million City Sentral shopping complex. City Sentral will be providing high quality shops, restaurants and leisure facilities, and is being built on the old bus station site, attracting inward investment and significant employment opportunities. The new bus station – based on the former John Street open car park – will begin operating in early 2013. Investment in City Centre gateway projects are well underway too, including imaginative public realm schemes in Albion Street, Percy Street and Tontine Street. Our top priority of making Stoke-on-Trent a great working city is becoming a reality. The Central Business District has the potential to create 4,500 new jobs for the people of Stoke-on-Trent bringing money into the local economy. The additional increase in income generated through business rates will allow vital services to be protected. The news is good, but we can’t do this alone. We need your help; we need you to get involved. So join in the push to drive our city forward by visiting stoke.gov.uk/mandate and filling in the form to get involved. Be part of the buzz. Stoke-on-Trent is definitely on the up!

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Pottery industry plans for jobs and profitability A major ceramics conference is being staged to help grow the pottery industry to provide jobs and profits for our city for years to come. Ceramics 2012 will focus on forging links and promoting advances in technology within the industry – as well as showcasing Stoke-on-Trent’s most successful brands and projects. Cllr Mark Meredith, the council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Development, said:“Stoke-on-Trent is proud of its history and tradition of producing world-class pottery and the Made in the UK

campaign is close to its heart. The emphasis for 2012 will be on helping to build a sustainable ceramics industry for the 21st Century by providing jobs and money for the UK economy.” The event, which takes place at the Britannia Stadium on 25 October, will also celebrate the industry’s most successful brands and products under the Made in the UK banner. For more information or to register to attend please visit www.a-new-era.org.uk

Assistant Headteacher Chris Chapman with students Chloe Marshall, 14, Akash Vigneswaien, 14 and Kati Adams, 12 in front of the futuristic learning tower.

Beam me up to the classroom SPACE age and futuristic – the new Learning Tower at Haywood Engineering College, pictured above, wouldn’t be out of place on the set of Star Trek and is already helping students boldly go to lessons like never before. Students designed the ET shaped teaching space – already casting an iconic silhouette on the Potteries skyline – after visits to famous architectural sites across the UK. They call it “a cross between a Norman Foster building and a spaceship”. Haywood describes itself as ‘A School of the Future’ so the tower is the perfect place to stimulate inquiring minds and,

with its huge glass windows and panoramic views, encourage students to explore the world around them. Part of the school science and technology courtyard, it’s used as a classroom and a conference room and aptly encapsulates the city council’s Building Schools for the Future ethos with its cutting edge looks. Assistant Head Chris Chapman said:“The city council set out to transport learning across Stoke-on-Trent into the 21st Century but the Learning Tower at Haywood has teleported it into another universe altogether.”

Plaque honour for unsung hero LEGENDARY athletics supporter Tom Brennan has been immortalised at Northwood Stadium where he championed the building of the grandstand and running track more than 20 years ago. A stone plaque commemorating the former Lord Mayor’s contribution has been unveiled at the site – fittingly just next to the tunnel entrance. Now in his late 70s, Tom is still heavily involved at Northwood. He still serves on the facility’s Stadium Development Group and is a strong advocate of exercise, especially in the wake of the Olympics. Tom, pictured by the plaque, said:“It was a fantastic surprise. You do voluntary work over the years and then for them to say

Councillor Amjid Wazir, Vice Chairman of the City Renewal Committee, pictured in the City Centre.

Public asked for views on

City Centre nights E

VERYONE with an interest in the night-time economy in the City Centre is being asked to outline their experiences as part of a city council review. This could include revellers, businesses, licensees and health and police officials. The consultation has been launched at an exciting time in the City Centre with the new bus station, new public spaces, shopping, and leisure and office

complexes planned in the next few years. The review is to ensure the city has a vibrant and safe night-time economy offer. It will examine: ● The benefits of the night-time economy to the city and City Centre. ● The licensing position in the City Centre and the national picture. ● The reasons for the reduction in the number of visitors to the City Centre at night.

Please tell us:

‘thank-you Tom’ in this way was a tremendous honour.” Site Manager Carl Adams said:“Tom’s obviously inspirational. His support for athletics in Stoke-on-Trent is well-known.”

● What is your experience of a night out in the City Centre? ● If you don’t visit the City Centre in the evenings, what would need to happen to encourage you to visit? ● How can the city council and its partners support a safe environment and a vibrant economy? ● How do you find working or running a business in the City Centre?

● Ways everyone can support a vibrant and safe night-time economy. Councillor Matt Wilcox, chairman of the review group, said: “Historically, Stoke-on-Trent had some of the best activities and events in the evening but that has dwindled over the past 10 years. “We feel it is important to look at what we can do to create a thriving economy once again and we would like to hear from as many people as possible.”

You can tell us by: An on-line form at: stoke.gov.uk/scrutiny Email: scrutiny@stoke.gov.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/sotcitycouncil Telephone Paul Baddeley: 01782 232723

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Our City

Saying ‘no’ to cold callers

Anya Hocknall, aged 15, shows Lord Mayor Councillor Terry Crowe the stylish atrium at the Co-operative Academy of Stoke-on-Trent.

NOTHER five schools have been completed for the start of the autumn term as part of the £270 million Building Schools for the Future programme in Stoke-on-Trent.

Big celebrations mark

our new schools

It means six of the 18 new builds and refurbishments are now being used by students while all the other projects designed to take city education into the 21st Century are on track for completion by September 2014. Tracy Penrose-Gould, BSF Project Director, said: “This programme is at the forefront of the council’s Mandate for Change – raising aspiration and improving attainment is a high priority for the city – and we are delighted at the progress that is being made with our contractors, school staff and students. “The inspirational facilities now available will make a big difference to the learning experiences and life chances of all children and young people in Stoke-on-Trent.” The latest to be completed include Portland School and Specialist College, previously known as Aynsley School. Re-opening in June at its original site after spending a year at Longton, the school for

NO COLD CALLERS! PLEASE LEAVE AND DO NOT RETURN Under the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008, it can be an offence to refuse to leave a property when asked to do so.

Dramatic results Haywood Engineering College has been transformed with a mix of new build and refurbishment work costing £8.3 million delivering a re-vamped science, technology and music area, a re-modelled general teaching block, an iconic Learning Tower designed by students and a new sports hall. Work to remodel Trentham High School, now a Co-operative Trust science college, started in April 2011. It now boasts an external courtyard with a canopy called Times Square, refurbished science laboratories, upgraded changing facilities for PE and swimming and a re-vamped art and technology block. A three-phased redevelopment at Birches Head High School has given the school a refurbished Learning Resource Centre, a new kitchen, seven science labs and new special educational needs and inclusion facilities. The sixth completed project is the pupil referral service unit Reach at Trent Vale. The school opened its iconic brand new building on one of the main gateways into the city in March.

✃

Year 7 pupils Geraldine Chong and MacKenzie Bennett, aged 11, in the new Times Square area at Trentham High School.

80 students with behavioural, emotional and social difficulties now has new buildings for Key Stage 3 pupils, improved accessibility and a new sports hall. The Co-operative Academy of Stoke-on-Trent officially replaced Brownhills High School in September 2010 and has now moved into its brand new £22 million building. The old high school buildings are now being demolished. Regarded as the flagship project of the BSF programme, students now learn in a curved hub incorporating a street area and internal courtyard. There is a new four-court sports hall, activity studio, dance space and changing facilities as well as an external all-weather pitch. The state-of-the-art facilities will also be available for use by the local community.

STOKE-on Trent’s successful No Cold Calling initiative has been rolled out to Weston Coyney to help people feel safer in their homes. The partnership project already operates in other areas of the city to help people – in particular elderly and vulnerable residents – deal safely with doorstep callers and reduce their fear of crime. Street signs and stickers in local people’s windows or front doors identify the zones and leaflets have been distributed advising residents how to deal with “cold callers” at their homes and to report anyone who ignores the signage to Police or Trading Standards so they can investigate. The Weston Coyney zones cover Holyhead Crescent, Stranraer Close, Princess Drive, Queen’s Walk, The Moat and Field View. Other initiatives include a booklet produced by Public Protection and distributed to police officers to promote awareness of the criminal nature of rogue trading. ● Residents who want to deter cold callers can cut out and display the flyer below.

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Warning is issued over alarm noise RESIDENTS are being urged to let the city council know who has a key to their house so that steps can be taken to silence their burglar alarm if it goes off by mistake and continues to sound. The council receives numerous complaints about noise from alarms malfunctioning or tripping out. In cases where no key can be located and the noise is causing a nuisance, a public protection officer is obliged to silence the alarms, which could lead to a £100 bill for the occupier. An automatic cut-off device should be fitted to stop the alarm ringing after 20 minutes and at least one key holder who can switch off the alarm in the owner’s absence should be registered confidentially with the council. ● Details of key holders can be emailed with a resident’s name, address and contact details to publicprotection@ stoke.gov.uk, or fill in the form below right.

Residents given posters to stop

trick or treat calls F

RESH safety warnings are being issued across Stoke-on-Trent by the Safer City Partnership ahead of Halloween and Bonfire Night. Elderly and vulnerable members of the community are being advised to display ‘No Trick or Treat’ posters in their windows if they do not want to be disturbed on 31 October. A small poster that people can cut out and display in their windows is printed at the foot of the page. At the same time, young people are being urged to stay as safe as possible by observing the following Halloween Code: ● Always go trick or treating with an adult. ● Only knock at houses where the resident is known. ● Respect ‘No Trick or Treat’ signs. ● Stay in well-lit areas, with friends and in a group. ● Never talk to strangers or go into houses. ● Be careful not to frighten elderly or vulnerable people. Resident ● Look carefully before crossing a road. Margaret Carr, 77, ● Do not vandalise anything. with the leaflets being With Bonfire Night also on the horizon, handed out in an the partnership is urging people to follow initiative launched by the Firework Code. the city council, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service in Staffordshire Police and particular is encouraging people to attend organised bonfire and firework displays and Staffordshire County make sure children are supervised at all times. Council. If you belong to a sports club, community group or public house and are planning to organise a bonfire and firework display, further advice is available from www.hse.gov.uk/fireworks/using.htm or by contacting publicprotection@stoke.gov.uk

INTRUDER

ALARMS

■ ■

Protect your property Consider your neighbours

If your burglar alarm goes off and continues to sound when you’re not home, the city council may need to contact you, or someone who has a key and can get into the house to turn off the alarm. If you have a home burglar alarm, please provide the following information: ■ Address where alarm installed ■ Owner/Occupier’s name ■ Contact numbers Details of the person(s) we can contact if your alarm sounds for a prolonged period: ■ Key holder 1 ■ Key holder 2 ■ Name

■ Name

■ Address

■ Contact Numbers

✃

Cut this form out, put it in an envelope and post it to FREEPOST OUR CITY (no stamp needed) or email: publicprotection@stoke.gov.uk

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OCTOBER 2012

Our City

Councillors come from diverse backgrounds and bring a wide range of experience and skills to their roles as they serve their communities. Here Our City talks to another five councillors about their lives in politics...

Councillor Olwen Hamer.

Councillor

Councillor Andy Platt.

Councillor

Olwen Hamer Labour Sandford Hill

“

My understanding of what it means to be a councillor has been developed through many years of working with and for communities, both within a voluntary and professional capacity, in local government, the third sector and through trade union work. Public services, in my view, are not owned by professionals or commissioners, but are a shared responsibility with communities. This is the approach I take in my role as a community councillor. Besides being a councillor, which in itself keeps me busy, my present work includes supporting policy-makers in the UK to improve public services. I am also an editor of an international policy journal. At present, I am supporting the development of a residents’ association in Sandford Hill. If you would like to be involved please do not hesitate to contact me. As always, I can be contacted regarding any issues you may have.

”

Councillor Alison Wedgwood.

Councillor Jackie Barnes.

Councillor Lee Wanger.

Councillor

Andy Platt

Alison Wedgwood

Labour Boothen and Oakhill

Labour Bentilee and Ubberley

“

I became interested in local affairs as a teenager involved in community groups. This showed me how only the Labour Party could represent ordinary working people and I was determined to make a change for the better. When I lived in Cobridge, I got involved in some community activities there and felt I could add to that work by being an elected member of the council. I was a councillor in Stoke-on-Trent for 10 years then. More recently, when the council moved to single-member wards last year, I was worried about what would happen if a candidate got elected and didn’t do the best job possible so I put myself forward to be a councillor again. Involvement in politics is about attempting to deliver an agenda and being a councillor is about putting that into action and trying to do the best you can for the people you represent.

”

“

Service is in my blood. We’ve had two MPs on the Wedgwood side of the family while my uncle was councillor for Bentilee for 23 years. My grandad was a councillor in Northwood. I stood for election in 2011 because I wanted to give something back and use my skills as an economist to help make Stoke-on-Trent a brilliant place to live and work. I want to put us on the map nationally. I have a strong affinity for Bentilee and Ubberley. I’m particularly proud of the launch of the new Friday night Kickz youth club in Bentilee at the Neighbourhood Centre and the Prince’s Trust training programme. But I want to see improvements in services across all our communities. We must also use the Olympics to inspire the next generation because our Olympians have shown hard work, motivation and can do commitment.

”

Jackie Barnes

Lee Wanger

City Independents Springfields and Trent Vale

City Independents Tunstall

“

This is my first time as a councillor though I’ve always been heavily involved in my community so people have always come to me with their problems. I don’t even answer the door, I just say come in. It all started when I became a governor of the primary school my two children attended about 20 years ago. I was chair of the Trent Vale Neighbourhood Support Team for four or five years and also involved with the community centre and the church. People had been asking me to stand for years but I’d always said no, thinking I wasn’t qualified. When I did it just felt right. I felt very humbled that everyone put their faith in me. I’ve been through training and my first meetings and I’m now putting my energy into lots of queries from people. I’ll always respond and try my very, very best for them and always keep in communication.”

”

Contact your councillor... see page 23 for telephone numbers and email addresses

“

I was first elected in 1998 and have been a serving councillor since then, apart from one year. I was motivated to stand by wanting the best for my area. I love Tunstall and I love Stoke-on-Trent. A lot of people knock the area and put it down, but it has a lot going for it. It is an honour to be a councillor because people put their trust in you. Every time I have helped someone, they have become a friend. I now have lots of friends in the Tunstall area and I can’t walk down the street without someone stopping me. I work really hard and do everything to the best of my ability. I always try to go the extra mile and make myself available. It is a very diverse job and a lot of people don’t realise some of the things you get involved in, but I enjoy it all.

”

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OCTOBER 2012

Fostering can lead to the joy of adoption MORE people are being encouraged to consider fostering to adopt. Those looking to adopt young children can foster a child from an early age, with a view to adopting if the child is not returned to the birth family. Social worker Adam Datoo said: “People interested in fostering to adopt need to understand the risk the child might go back to his or her birth family but there are many benefits. Children are usually placed with a foster carer and then move to live with adoptive parents. This scheme reduces moves and confusion during an important time in the child’s life.” Through Stoke-on-Trent Adoption Service, James and Jill Wilson (not their real names) fostered their son when he was seven days old with the hope of adoption. Six months later, he was legally their son. James said:“Having him from a baby gave us the chance to do things such as feeds which we never thought we would be able to do. “That was really special. It was hard knowing he could go back to his birth family, but we wouldn’t change a thing. Our home is all he has ever known and he has been part of our family from the start.” ● For more information, call 01782 235020.

£800,000 town centre boost for

shops and jobs N

EW life has already been breathed into 18 buildings and sites in Longton with a £950,000 project that is part of the delivery of a regeneration masterplan for the town. Around £800,000 has already been spent as part of the three-year grant-aided Partnership Schemes in Conservation Areas programme involving Stoke-on-Trent City Council, English Heritage and building owners. The aim is to improve key historic buildings, bring neglected properties back into use, create and safeguard jobs and attract new investment. The biggest single scheme has seen extensive renovation of the Methodist Central Hall. The Grade 2 listed Longton Market building has also been transformed in a package including new and attractive illuminated signage and renovation of 14 shop units along The Strand. The scheme is also helping with external repairs to the former Martin’s Bank in Market Street where the owner is working to establish new shops and residential accommodation. This was an unsightly and dilapidated building which is now undergoing complete renovation including restoration of an unusual Victorian cast iron façade. The former Phoenix Pottery Works in King Street is undergoing a £100,000 facelift to create a retail and office

complex with the potential to create between 80 and 100 jobs. Mark Milner, director of the company overseeing the project, said: “We are extremely grateful to be Mark included within the scheme, which Milner, whose has already brought dramatic company is improvements to the town centre.” overseeing the project Other work completed includes to convert the old improvements to put in new cobbles along the historic Phoenix Works at King Handcart Lane and work on Street, Longton, into a Goslings Butchers in The Strand. shops and office complex. Dramatic results Longton Regeneration Officer Joe Devlin said: “Many interesting buildings in the town centre were deteriorating and at serious risk of costing significantly more to repair and restore. This scheme has produced dramatic results already especially since businesses, despite tough economic times, did their bit to part-fund the work. “It’s really brought everyone together from single buildings owned by a pensioner to other small businesses who wanted to help regenerate the town. That’s been one of the really heartening aspects. And we have more work to do before next year. There are already plans for another couple of schemes.”

Adoption for Stoke-on-Trent

Keeping brothers and sisters together... where they belong Make sure you are not missing out From September 2012, the Government has made access to early education even more flexible. All three and four year old children are entitled to free early education (15 hours per week for 38 weeks per year) and some early education providers are now able to offer the entitlement between the hours of 7am and 7pm giving families more flexibility. For more information, including details of eligibility and a list of your local early education providers, please contact the:

Could you adopt? Please call 01782 235020 or visit stoke.gov.uk/adoption

0800 015 1120 01782 232200 stoke.gov.uk/fis fis@stoke.gov.uk www.twitter.com/StokeFIS or search for Stoke Family Information Service on: www.facebook.com

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OCTOBER 2012

Children’s Centre

UPDATE

News and information from Stoke-on-Trent’s Children’s Centres

October 2012

There is something for everyone at Stoke-on-Trent’s children’s centres... but don’t take our word for it. Families from our city have told how visiting their children’s centre has changed their lives for the better. Children’s centre teams want more people to find out how joining in can improve their lives in many ways. So everyone who pops into their local children’s centre to register will receive a special FREE GIFT...

Our City

Tel: 01782 231096

Tel: 01782 238989

Tel: 01782 231096

Tel: 01782 232977

Tel: 01782 236655

“”

We learned to have fun together as a family Megan Backhouse aged three, from Bentilee

“”

I‘m ready to start at school and carry on learning

My mum knows if I make a mess or knock my bricks over when I’m playing I’m having fun and learning

Sophie Wightman aged three, from Birches Head

“”

We’re really happy because my dad has a job

“”

My mum helps out and we’ve made lots of friends

Lottie Dyson aged five, from Meir

Tel: 01782 234357

Tel: 01782 237100

Tel: 01782 231815

Tel: 01782 596421

“”

My daddy and I love Saturdads and spending time together just the two of us

“”

Mum of Isabelle Deville aged 15 months, from Tunstall

Tel: 01782 236333

Archie Johnson aged two, from Berry Hill

Neive Sherratt aged seven, from Meir

Our house is a safe place to live

Tel: 01782 238352

You need your children’s centre... three-year-old Dylan Mutseriwa, who attends Fenton Children’s Centre, points the way for parents.

Nathan Verney-Kenny aged three, from Norton

“”

Oscar got the support he needs to develop Mum of Oscar Woodward aged nine months, from Trent Vale

“”

I’m learning lots and getting on with my friends even better Theo Toussaint aged two, from Fenton

Bite-sized news from your children’s centres... turn to page 14

Tel: 01782 237650

Tel: 01782 233775

Tel: 01782 234024

Tel: 01782 233670

Tel: 01782 237500

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PULL OUT GUIDE TO CHILDREN’S CENTRES ACTIVITIES CHILDREN’S CENTRES IN THE NORTH OF THE CITY Families welcome to 01782 238989

01782 231096

Vale Park, Hamil Road, Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent ST6 1AW

Ball Green Primary School, Whitfield Road, Ball Green ST6 8AJ MONDAY Stay and Play Drop-In

9:30–11am

FRIDAY Little Sprouts Sensory Stay and Play 1-3pm

MONDAY Maths Course and Crèche # 9:30-11:30am Stay and Play Drop-In 1-2:30pm

OTHER SERVICES Saturdads # Jumping Beans Sensory Group Young Parents Group TUESDAY English Course and Crèche # 1-3pm Tiny Talkers Growing Together * 1-2:30pm Family Support Outreach # Play and Learning Outreach # WEDNESDAY Volunteering Program # Baby Massage Drop-In 9:30-10:30am Toy Library # Stay and Play Drop-In 9:30-11am

OTHER SERVICES Saturdads # Jumping Beans Young Parents Group Tiny Talkers Lets Get Creative Family Support Outreach # Play and Learning Outreach # Volunteering Program # Toy Library #

THURSDAY Tiny Explorers Baby Group 9:30-11am (0-18mths or confident walkers) Adult Learning and Crèche # 1-3pm FRIDAY Lets Get Creative Stay and Play (Messy play,please bring a change of clothing) 9:30-11:30am Parent Forum Meeting 1:30-2:30pm (First Friday of every month)

01782 231096 MONDAY English Course and Crèche # 1-3pm TUESDAY Sweet Peas Baby Group 9:30-11am (0-18mths or confident walkers) Midwife Antenatal▲ 9:30-4pm Young Parents Group 10-Noon Adult Learning and Crèche # 1-3pm WEDNESDAY Stay and Play Drop-In

Bishop Road, Chell Heath, Stoke-on-Trent ST6 6QW

OTHER SERVICES Saturdads # Jumping Beans Sensory Group Tiny Talkers Lets Get Creative Family Support Outreach # Play and Learning Outreach # Volunteering Program # Toy Library #

MONDAY Stay and Play Drop-In 9:30-11am Adult Learning and Crèche # 1-3pm Parent Forum Meeting 1:30-2:30pm (Whitfield Valley.Last Monday of every month)

FRIDAY Walking Group # 12:30-2:30pm (All the family can take part in walks around the locality) Growing Together * 1-2:30pm

OTHER SERVICES Rumble Tummies Café (Mon-Fri,open to the public) 10:30am-1:30pm Saturdads # Jumping Beans Young Parents Group Sensory Group Let’s Get Creative Family Support Outreach # Play and Learning Outreach # Volunteering Program # 9:30-11am Toy Library #

TUESDAY Messy Monkeys Baby Group (0-18mths or confident walkers) 9-10:30am Health Visitor Drop-In 9-10:30am Stay and Play Drop-In 9:30-11am (Whitfield Valley) English Course and Crèche # 12:45-2:45pm

9:30-11am

THURSDAY Childminders Stay and Play Drop-In (Childminders only please) 9:30-11am Growing Together * 1-2:30pm

WEDNESDAY Stay and Play Drop-In

FRIDAY Maths Course and Crèche # 9:30-11:30am Parent Forum Meeting 1:30-2:30pm (Third Friday of every month)

THURSDAY Maths Course and Crèche # 9:30-11:30am Tiny Talkers # (Building language skills and early communication) 1-2:30pm

WEDNESDAY Adult Learning and Crèche # 9:30-11:30am Mum 2 Mum Breastfeeding Café Drop-In 9:30-11:30am

● specialist support for children with additional needs ● outreach workers ● information for parents ● activities to help parents and carers back to work. Each children’s centre also delivers additional services tailored to meet local needs. There are even opportunities to volunteer and learn new skills that could lead to qualifications, a job or career change. Contact details are included with each centre’s calendar. alternatively, follow your centre on Facebook.

FRIDAY Busy Babies Baby Group 9:30-11am (0-18mths or confident walkers) Growing Together * 1:30-3pm OTHER SERVICES Nibbles and Giggles Café (Mon-Fri, open to the public) 10:30am-1:30pm Saturdads # Tiny Talkers Sensory Group Let’s Get Creative Family Support Outreach # Play and Learning Outreach # Volunteering Program # Toy Library #

Book at Reception

▲

AUTUMN ACTIVITIES For the latest news about autumn events, pop into your local Children’s Centre.

Eaves Lane, Bucknall, Stoke-on-Trent ST2 9AS MONDAY Family Links Course with Crèche * Growing Together *

FRIDAY Parent Forum 9:30-11:30am (First Friday of every month) Breastfeeding Café 10:30-Noon Volunteering Group 9:30-11:30am with crèche (Weeks that Parent Forum not on) Growing Together * 1:15-2:30pm (Abbey Hulton)

12:45-2:45pm 10-11:30am

TUESDAY Baby Weighing Clinic 9-10:30am Midwife Clinic 9-12:30pm Chill & Chat 1-2:30pm (Sorry no crèche facility) Time to Talk Communication & Language Group * 10:30-11:30am WEDNESDAY Play Together (PICL) Baby Massage*

OTHER SERVICES Toy Library (By request) Sensory Room■ Speech and Language Support* Play and Learning Home Visiting Kingsland Kindergarten (Day Care) Job Centre (every Thursday) Rhyme time Craft■ (25 Oct) Volunteering Programme

10-11:30am 1-2pm

THURSDAY Midwife Clinic ■ All Day Ready Steady Learn * 9:30-11:30am Baby Weighing 1:30-3:30pm (Abbey Hulton Clinic)

Appointments Only. * Referral Only. # Ask at reception.

■

Book at Reception

THURSDAY Ready,Steady,Go* 9:30-11:30am (Transition crèche to NEG/School.) Hands from Around the World 10:30-12pm Bouncing Bears 11-11:45am (City Central Library) Incredible Years (Delivered by Connect, CAMHS & First Steps Please contact: 0300 123 0987) FRIDAY Triple P* 9:30-11:30am Mandarin Group 12:30-2pm Parent Forum (1st Fri of every month, limited crèche available) 1-2:30pm Play and Learning in the Home* 1:30-2:30pm Babble and Speak* 1:30-2:30pm OTHER SERVICES Play and Learning in the Home* Saturday Story Time 11-Noon (City Central Library) Volunteering Programme

▲

MONDAY Midwife Clinic ▲ 9-1pm ■ 11:15-Noon Jo Jingles (1-5yrs,£2 per family,term time only) Growing Together** 1-2:30pm (0-5yrs) Family Support Drop-In 2-3pm (Blurton Primary School,term time only) TUESDAY ■ Play Together Group 9:30-11am Start Up Literacy 12:30-2:30pm WEDNESDAY Midwife Clinic ▲ 9-11am Baby Jabadao■ (0-First steps) 9:30-11am Baby Clinic 1:30-3:30pm (Blurton Health Centre) Start Up Numeracy 12:30-2:30pm Parent Forum (fortnightly) 1-2:30pm THURSDAY Baby Clinic Baby Massage ■

11-Noon 1-2:30pm

01782 236333 Greatbatch Avenue, Penkhull, Stoke-on-Trent ST4 7JU MONDAY Stay and Play■ (PICL,2-5yrs)9:30-11am ■ 1:15-2:45pm Growing Together (Baby Stay and Play for 0-12mths) Midwife Clinic ▲ All Day TUESDAY Transition ▲ 9:30-11:30am Breastfeeding Café 10:30-12pm Stay & Play■ (PICL,1-2yrs) 1:15-2:45pm Midwife Clinic ▲ All Day WEDNESDAY Chill and Chat 9:30-11:30am (10,17,24 Oct) Parent Forum (31 Oct) 9:30-11:30am New Birth Registration Drop-In (31 Oct, Trent Vale Health Centre) 10-11am THURSDAY Health Visitor Drop-In (0-5yrs) 9:30-11am New Birth Registration Drop-In (25 Oct,Penkhull CC) 9:30-11am ■ 10-11:30am Stay and Play (PICL,0-5yrs,St John’s,Trent Vale) Midwife Clinic ▲ All Day

FRIDAY ■ 9:30-10am & Singing Sunflowers (0-5yrs,Stoke Library) 10:15-10:45am New Birth Registration Drop-In (26 Oct,Stoke Library) 11-1pm Tiny Talkers* 1-2pm OTHER SERVICES Toy Library Sensory Room (By request) Speech and Language Support* Play and Learning in the Home* Family Support in the Home* Volunteering Programme

01782 237100

Garth Street, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent ST1 2DA

THURSDAY Stay and Play■ 9:30-11am Young Parents Group 10-Noon Midwife Antenatal▲ 9:30am-4pm English Course and Crèche # 12:45-2:45pm

■

Oakwood Road, Blurton, Stoke-on-Trent ST3 3AR

01782 238352

MONDAY Play Together 9:30-11am (18mths-5yrs) Health Visitor Drop-In 9:30-11:30am ■ Let’s Get Healthy with HENRY Chill & Chat 1-3pm Playgroup (Portland Street,Community Centre) Etruscan Primary Toddler Group (Etruscan Primary School) 1-2:45pm TUESDAY Connect Group ^ 9:30-11:30am Health Visitor Drop-In 9:30-11:30am (Hanley Health Centre) Story Bears 11-11:30am (City Central Library) Growing Together* (0-1yrs)1-2:30pm WEDNESDAY Play Together (0-18mths) 1:30-3pm Growing Together* 1:30-3pm (Portland Street,Community Centre) ZUMBA at the PARC (Portland Street, Hanley,£3 per session) 7-8pm

Woodland Street, Tunstall, Stoke-on-Trent ST6 6AP

TUESDAY Childminders Stay and Play Drop-In (Childminders only) 9:30-11:30am Parent Forum Meeting (Every second Tuesday of the month) 9:30-11:30am Baby Massage 11:30-12:30pm Drop-In ■ 1:30-2:30pm Jumping Beans (Music and movement)

EVERY family in Stoke-on-Trent can make the most of a great range of services and facilities at the city’s children’s centres. The teams reach out into their local communities to support families and give children the very best start in life. Anyone is welcome to pop into their local centre and take part in one of the activities featured on this pull out and keep special. Children’s centres provide a range of services including: ● childcare and children's learning and development ● health services ● family support

01782 596421

01782 231815

01782 234357

01782 236655 MONDAY Stay and Play■ 9:30-11am Matths Course and Crèche # 12:45-2:45pm

take part in packed activity programme

CHILDREN’S CENTRES IN THE CENTRE OF THE CITY 01782 232977

St Nicholas Avenue, Norton, Stoke-on-Trent ST6 8JW

CHILDREN’S CENTRES IN THE SOUTH OF THE CITY

MONDAY Ready Steady Learn 1-3pm (Transition based group) ■ ESOL 9:30-11:30am TUESDAY Home Play Sessions ■ Growing Together (PICL.0-2yrs)

9:30-12:30pm 1:15-2:45pm

WEDNESDAY Parent Time (17 Oct,limited Crèche) Little Stars* 9:30-11:30am Play Together Drop-In 1:15-2:45pm (PICL.0-5yrs.Held at TBCC) Play Together Drop-In 1:15-2:45pm (PICL.0-5yrs.Held at Joiners Square)

College Road, Shelton, Stoke-on-Trent ST4 2DQ FRIDAY Ready Steady Learn* Registration Drop-In Tiny Talkers

9:30-11:30am 10-2pm 1-2:30pm

OTHER SERVICES Speech and Language Support* Play and Learning in the Home* Family Support in the Home* Volunteering Programme

THURSDAY Dove Service* 9-11am Cook and Eat ■ 9:30-11:30am Health Visitor and Baby Weighing Group Drop-In 1:30-2:45pm

Appointments Only. ^ Limited crèche available. * Referral Only. PICL – Parents Involved in Children’s Learning.

FRIDAY Family Support Drop-In (Newstead Primary School,term time only) 9-10am Growing Together** 9:30-11am (0-5yrs) Play Together (Newstead Primary School,term time only) 1:30-3pm Birth Prep (book with Midwife,first Friday of the month) OTHER SERVICES Family Kitchen Indoor and Outdoor Playspace (open Monday to Friday) 9-4:45pm Crèche (Available for parents undertaking Parent Forum,Volunteering, Training and Respite) Mon 9:30-11:30am Wed 12:30-2:30pm Thur 9:30-11:30am Baby Massage* (one-to-one sessions) Volunteering Programme Taining Programme Sensory Room

Pinewood Crescent, Meir, Stoke-on-Trent ST3 6HZ MONDAY ■ 10-10:45am Jo Jingles (£2 per family) Parent Forum 9:45-11:30am (Runs every fortnightly) Baby Jabadao Drop-In 1-2:30pm (0-First steps) TUESDAY Child Health Clinic 9:15-11:30am Play Together 9:15-11am (0-5yrs.Weston Coyney Infant School. Please book via 596848) Play Together Drop-In 9:30-11:30am Busybodies 9:30-10:15am (£2.The Grange Children’s Centre) Spooktacular Party 1-2:30pm (30 Oct.Disco,Games,Fancy Dress) WEDNESDAY Triple P 9:30-11:30am (For more information or to book contact First Steps on 0300 123 0977) Growing Together ** 1-2:30pm (0-5yrs.PICL)

THURSDAY Child Health Clinic 9-11am (Weston Heights Community Centre) Numeracy 9:30-11:30am Literacy 12:30-2:30pm (For more info speak to Caz 596421) FRIDAY ■ 9:45-10:45am Fitness/Zumba (Cèche places are limited) Growing Together ** 1-2:30pm (0-5yrs.PICL) OTHER SERVICES Crèche Training,Volunteering and Respite Mon,Wed,Thur,Fri 9-11:30am Thur 12:30-3pm 9-1pm Midwife Clinic ▲ (Tue,Wed,Thur) Dads Saturday (3 Nov) 10-12pm Volunteering Programme (Please speak to The Community & Economic Development Officer Caz Gotham)

01782 237650 Travers Court, Temple Street, Fenton, Stoke-on-Trent ST4 4NR MONDAY Health Visitor Drop-In 9:30-11am Fenton Book Buddies 11:30-12:30pm (Meet monthly,next meeting 22 Oct) Growing Together* (0-5yrs) 1-2:30pm TUESDAY Play Together (0-5yrs) 9:30-11:30am Busybodies (£2 per family) 1-1:45pm Baby Massage * 1:30-3pm Spooky Funday (30 Oct) 10-Noon WEDNESDAY Breastfeeding Café 10:30-Noon Various Training Courses (6wk courses. Limited Crèche places) 12:45-2:45pm Teenage Pregnancy Group * 1-3pm THURSDAY Coffee Morning Drop-In9:30-11:30am Play Together (0-5yrs) 12:30-2:30pm FRIDAY Parent Forum 9:30-11:30m (19 Oct,16 Nov,30 Nov) Fenton Families First 9:30-11:30m (26 Oct,9 Nov,23 Nov,7 Dec) Baby Jabadao (0-Walking) 1-2:30pm

OTHER SERVICES Toy and Book Library Community Garden Play and Learning Home Visits ■ Sensory Room Volunteering Programme Outreach Drop-In at Fenpark Playgroup 23 Oct 10-11am 8 Nov 10-11am Outreach Drop-In at Clarice Cliffe 18 Oct,appontments only please speak to Sam Hudson 9:30-10:30am 15 Nov,Stay & Play 9:30-10:30am

01782 233775

01782 234024 Jubilee Road, Trentham ST4 8EF

Normacot Grange Road, Meir, Stoke-on-Trent ST3 7AW MONDAY Play Together Drop-In 9:15-11:15am (0-5yrs) Outreach Drop-In 9-10am (Grange Nursery School.Term time only) Spooktacular Party 1-2:30pm (29 Oct.Disco,Games,Fancy Dress) TUESDAY Midwife Clinic ▲ 9:30-1pm Parent Forum 10:30-Noon (Every fortnight.Limited crèche) Busybodies 9:30-10:15am (£2 per session)

FRIDAY Baby Jabadao Drop-In 9:30-11am (0-First steps) Growing Together (0-5yrs) 1-2:30pm

MONDAY Play Together Baby Jabadao

9:30-11am 12:30-2pm

OTHER SERVICES Dads Saturday (3 Nov) 10-12pm Volunteering Programme (Please speak to The Community & Economic Development Officer Caz Gotham)

TUESDAY Growing Together**

9:30-11am

WEDNESDAY Growing Together ** 9:30-11am (0-5yrs) Baby Massage (6wk course.Invitation only.Contact Hayley on 596421) 1-3pm THURSDAY ■ Jo Jingles (£2 per family) Child Health Clinic

WEDNESDAY Crèche for Training and Parent Forum 9:30-11am Parent Forum 9:30-11am Pandas Group (0-5yrs) 12-2:30pm Family Support Drop-In 2:30-3:30pm (Priory Primary School,term time only)

10-10:45am 1:15-2:45pm

Dawlish Drive, Bentilee, Stoke-on-Trent ST2 0HW

TUESDAY Health Visitor Drop-In Growing Together**

9:30-11am Noon-3pm

OTHER SERVICES Outdoor Play Area Volunteering Programme

THURSDAY Breastfeeding Café 10:30-Noon Midwife Clinic ▲ 10:30-2pm Health Visitor Drop-In 2-3pm (1st and 3rd Thursday in the month) Growing Together** 1:30-3pm

0 01782 23750

01782 233670 MONDAY Midwife Clinic ▲ Baby Jabadao (0-First steps)

FRIDAY Play Together (0-5yrs) Foster Carers’Group (12 Oct,23 Nov)

THURSDAY 9-3:30pm Midwife Clinic ▲ 1-2:30pm Fitness Group ▲ Growing Together**

9-3:30pm 10-11am 1-2:30pm

FRIDAY 9:30-11am Moss Green Growing Together** 9:30-11am (Riverside Housing Office) 9:30-11am Midwife Clinic ▲ 9-3:30pm WEDNESDAY Play Together 12:30-2pm ▲ Midwife Clinic 9-3:30pm Antenatal Group 1-2:30pm ■ 1-2:30pm Baby Massage OTHER SERVICES (0-12mths) Parent’s Forum 9:45-11am Crèche (Mon,Wed,Thur) (17 Oct,16,30 Nov) Playspace 9-3pm Literacy 9:30-11:30am (Mon,Tue,Thur,Fri.Open to the public) (Please book with Emily Peters) Start-Up Courses available Numeracy 12:30-2:30pm (Term time only) (Please book with Emily Peters) Volunteering Programme Start Up – SMILE 10-12pm (SMILE Training & Employment Drop-In) ■ 1-3pm Half Term Disco (31 Oct)

Buccleuch Road, Normacot, Stoke-on-Trent ST3 4RF MONDAY Play Together 9:30-11:30am Twins and More Siblings 10:30-Noon Introductory Teaching 12:45-2:45pm Assistant Course (Starts 1 Oct,for 6wks. Speak to Andy for more information) Halloween Themed Play Together (29 Oct) 9:30-11:30am TUESDAY Post Natal/New Baby 10-11am (Mums and Babies up to 9mths) Busybodies 11:30-Noon (£2 per session.Term time only) Baby Clinic ▲ 4:30-6pm (First Tue of every month) ■ Pumpkin Carving 9:30-10:15am (30 Oct) 10:30-11:15am WEDNESDAY Speech & Language Therapy ▲ 9-5pm Development Checks ▲ 9:30-1pm Play and Sing Together 1-2:30pm Halloween Party (Arts & Crafts,Fancy Dress,Outdoor Play,Disco,Face Painting and Party Games.31 Oct) 1-3pm

* Referral Only. ** Bookable places with Play & Learn team.

■

THURSDAY Breastfeeding Cafe 10:30-Noon Baby Clinic 1-2:45pm Baby Jabadao (0-First steps) 1-2:30pm FRIDAY Parent Forum (19 Oct) 9:30-11:30am Baby Massage ▲ 10-Noon Growing Together 1-2:30pm Junk Modelling (2 Nov) 9:30-11am OTHER SERVICES Soft Play Area (Mon-Fri) 8:30-5pm ESOL (Tue,Thur,Fri) 9:30-11:30am Midwife Clinic (Mon-Fri) ▲ Crèche Training,Volunteering and Respite Mon 12:30-3pm Tue-Fri 9-11:30m Asian Ladies Advice Group Drop-In (18,23 Oct) 11:30-1:30pm Play and Learning Home Visits (Mon,Wed,Thur,Fri) Volunteering Programme Early Intervention Team Training and Employment Support

Book at Reception.

▲

Appointments Only.

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PULL OUT GUIDE TO CHILDREN’S CENTRES ACTIVITIES CHILDREN’S CENTRES IN THE NORTH OF THE CITY Families welcome to 01782 238989

01782 231096

Vale Park, Hamil Road, Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent ST6 1AW

Ball Green Primary School, Whitfield Road, Ball Green ST6 8AJ MONDAY Stay and Play Drop-In

9:30–11am

FRIDAY Little Sprouts Sensory Stay and Play 1-3pm

MONDAY Maths Course and Crèche # 9:30-11:30am Stay and Play Drop-In 1-2:30pm

OTHER SERVICES Saturdads # Jumping Beans Young Parents Group Tiny Talkers Lets Get Creative Family Support Outreach # Play and Learning Outreach # Volunteering Program # Toy Library #

Bishop Road, Chell Heath, Stoke-on-Trent ST6 6QW

OTHER SERVICES Saturdads # Jumping Beans Sensory Group Tiny Talkers Lets Get Creative Family Support Outreach # Play and Learning Outreach # Volunteering Program # Toy Library #

MONDAY Stay and Play Drop-In 9:30-11am Adult Learning and Crèche # 1-3pm Parent Forum Meeting 1:30-2:30pm (Whitfield Valley.Last Monday of every month)

FRIDAY Walking Group # 12:30-2:30pm (All the family can take part in walks around the locality) Growing Together * 1-2:30pm

9:30-11am

THURSDAY Childminders Stay and Play Drop-In (Childminders only please) 9:30-11am Growing Together * 1-2:30pm

WEDNESDAY Stay and Play Drop-In

FRIDAY Maths Course and Crèche # 9:30-11:30am Parent Forum Meeting 1:30-2:30pm (Third Friday of every month)

THURSDAY Maths Course and Crèche # 9:30-11:30am Tiny Talkers # (Building language skills and early communication) 1-2:30pm

WEDNESDAY Adult Learning and Crèche # 9:30-11:30am Mum 2 Mum Breastfeeding Café Drop-In 9:30-11:30am

Book at Reception

▲

AUTUMN ACTIVITIES For the latest news about autumn events, pop into your local Children’s Centre.

Eaves Lane, Bucknall, Stoke-on-Trent ST2 9AS MONDAY Family Links Course with Crèche * Growing Together *

12:45-2:45pm 10-11:30am

10-11:30am 1-2pm

THURSDAY Midwife Clinic ■ All Day Ready Steady Learn * 9:30-11:30am Baby Weighing 1:30-3:30pm (Abbey Hulton Clinic)

Appointments Only. * Referral Only. # Ask at reception.

■

Book at Reception

▲

11-Noon 1-2:30pm

01782 237100

Garth Street, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent ST1 2DA

THURSDAY Stay and Play■ 9:30-11am Young Parents Group 10-Noon Midwife Antenatal▲ 9:30am-4pm English Course and Crèche # 12:45-2:45pm

■

Oakwood Road, Blurton, Stoke-on-Trent ST3 3AR

01782 238352

Woodland Street, Tunstall, Stoke-on-Trent ST6 6AP

01782 596421

01782 231815

01782 234357

01782 236655 MONDAY Stay and Play■ 9:30-11am Matths Course and Crèche # 12:45-2:45pm

take part in packed activity programme

CHILDREN’S CENTRES IN THE CENTRE OF THE CITY 01782 232977

St Nicholas Avenue, Norton, Stoke-on-Trent ST6 8JW

CHILDREN’S CENTRES IN THE SOUTH OF THE CITY

MONDAY Ready Steady Learn 1-3pm (Transition based group) ■ ESOL 9:30-11:30am TUESDAY Home Play Sessions ■ Growing Together (PICL.0-2yrs)

9:30-12:30pm 1:15-2:45pm

College Road, Shelton, Stoke-on-Trent ST4 2DQ FRIDAY Ready Steady Learn* Registration Drop-In Tiny Talkers

9:30-11:30am 10-2pm 1-2:30pm

OTHER SERVICES Speech and Language Support* Play and Learning in the Home* Family Support in the Home* Volunteering Programme

THURSDAY Dove Service* 9-11am Cook and Eat ■ 9:30-11:30am Health Visitor and Baby Weighing Group Drop-In 1:30-2:45pm

Appointments Only. ^ Limited crèche available. * Referral Only. PICL – Parents Involved in Children’s Learning.

01782 233775

01782 234024 Jubilee Road, Trentham ST4 8EF

FRIDAY Baby Jabadao Drop-In 9:30-11am (0-First steps) Growing Together (0-5yrs) 1-2:30pm

MONDAY Play Together Baby Jabadao

9:30-11am 12:30-2pm

OTHER SERVICES Dads Saturday (3 Nov) 10-12pm Volunteering Programme (Please speak to The Community & Economic Development Officer Caz Gotham)

TUESDAY Growing Together**

9:30-11am

WEDNESDAY Growing Together ** 9:30-11am (0-5yrs) Baby Massage (6wk course.Invitation only.Contact Hayley on 596421) 1-3pm THURSDAY ■ Jo Jingles (£2 per family) Child Health Clinic

WEDNESDAY Crèche for Training and Parent Forum 9:30-11am Parent Forum 9:30-11am Pandas Group (0-5yrs) 12-2:30pm Family Support Drop-In 2:30-3:30pm (Priory Primary School,term time only)

10-10:45am 1:15-2:45pm

Dawlish Drive, Bentilee, Stoke-on-Trent ST2 0HW

TUESDAY Health Visitor Drop-In Growing Together**

9:30-11am Noon-3pm

OTHER SERVICES Outdoor Play Area Volunteering Programme

THURSDAY Breastfeeding Café 10:30-Noon Midwife Clinic ▲ 10:30-2pm Health Visitor Drop-In 2-3pm (1st and 3rd Thursday in the month) Growing Together** 1:30-3pm

0 01782 23750

01782 233670 MONDAY Midwife Clinic ▲ Baby Jabadao (0-First steps)

FRIDAY Play Together (0-5yrs) Foster Carers’Group (12 Oct,23 Nov)

THURSDAY 9-3:30pm Midwife Clinic ▲ 1-2:30pm Fitness Group ▲ Growing Together**

9-3:30pm 10-11am 1-2:30pm

* Referral Only. ** Bookable places with Play & Learn team.

■

Book at Reception.

▲

Appointments Only.

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Our City O C TO B E R 2 0 1 2

Children’s Centre

Children’s Centres in Stoke-on-Trent are having a big impact on the lives of families across the city. Here, Our City gives some bite size news of what’s happening around the centres – families can pop in or call to find out more.

UPDATE

Popular Saturdads sessions are going out on the road to venues across the north of the city. The first session will take place on Saturday 3 November at the Sandyford Community Fire Station between 10:30am and noon. All dads and their children aged 0-5 are welcome.

Tel: 01782 232977 Over the summer parents at Tunstall worked with Partners in Creative Learning to plan and put on a Wet and Messy Play day for families in the area.

Tel: 01782 231096

Tel: 01782 236655 Burslem Children’s Centre are delivering a number of courses including strengthening families/strengthening communities covering parenting skills, relaxation, anger management and problem solving. Contact the centre for other courses available.

Tel: 01782 238989

Tel: 01782 238352

Children and parents at Hope Children’s Centre looked after caterpillars during the summer and watched them grow and change into butterflies, learning about nature as they went. Contact the centre to find out about more activities. At Thomas Boughey we are redesigning a part of the crèche garden to ensure children have the opportunity dig, plant, and find out what happens to the area as the seasons and the weather changes. The area will be a ‘finding out’ area and motivate children to become young explorers. Who knows, maybe we will inspire the scientists of tomorrow!

We have started a ‘young parents-to-be’ group with the midwife and other partners to help young parents to be, both mothers and fathers, prepare themselves for the arrival of their baby.

Tel: 01782 234357

Tel: 01782 233670 Tel: 01782 237100

Tel: 01782 237650 Penkhull’s 10-week Family Links group helps parents understand how children behave, the feelings behind behaviour, different approaches to discipline, helping children to co-operate and the importance of nurturing little ones. Pop in for more information.

Take a trip down Kingsland Children’s Centre’s Jungle Trail and try to spot all the animals. They don’t bite! Jump into the river boat and count how many animals you can see. Visit our islands and have fun playing with animals and puppets or looking at books reading about their adventures. Bring your Mummy or Daddy so they can join in the fun too.

Busybodies – at Fenton Children’s Centre – is a fun session with music, rhyme and physical playtime for parents and children aged 0-5. The session takes place between 1pm and 1.45pm every Tuesday and costs £2.00 per family.

Tel: 01782 236333

Local Business Enterprise Support is starting at Blurton Children’s Centre in October. Enterprise coach Julie will be there to answer questions about self employment. Everyone is welcome to get involved in a range of centre activities. It’s a great way to develop skills, meet new people and most importantly, to make sure the Children’s Centre meets your family’s needs.

Come along and join the fun with the Fitness Club at Treehouse Children’s Centre, every Thursday, 10-11am (limited creche facilities are available). Come along to Baby Jabadao at The Crescent Children’s Centre on Mondays 1-2:30pm (0-first steps). As well as being an opportunity to mix with other parents, this is a parent and child interaction session which promotes movement and sensory play, encouraging development of the brain and body through play.

Tel: 01782 596421

Tel: 01782 231815

Tel: 01782 237500

Tel: 01782 234024 Come along for a coffee, chat and meet other parents at the Breastfeeding Café at Hanford Children’s Centre, every Thursday between 10:30-Noon.

There’s a new sensory room at Westfield that families can book. It’s great for children aged 0-5 years (no age limit for children with additional needs). It’s free to book. Just contact reception.

Tel: 01782 233775 The Grange Children’s Centre has launched a new Parent Forum. Anyone who would like to share ideas to help develop the centre – working with staff and other parents – should pop in for a chat.

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OCTOBER 2012

flu jabs E

LDERLY patients, pregnant women and people with long-term medical conditions have been reminded to book in for their flu jabs.

The vaccine is offered free to people at risk of catching flu and developing serious complications. As flu strains can change from year to year, and antibodies gradually decrease over time, vaccinations must be taken every year to ensure the best protection. Dr Chandra Kanneganti, Clinical Director of Urgent Care at Stoke on Trent Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “We usually get around 75 per cent of the people who are invited coming for their flu jabs. We would like to boost that number this year. A common misunderstanding is that the vaccination gives someone flu. What it actually does is provide the antibodies to fight the virus.” Anyone who develops flu-like symptoms has been urged not to go to A&E. Flu patients do not always need to see their GP either. Advice is to rest at home, keep warm and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.

Lord Mayor Councillor Terry Crowe is given his flu jab at the Harley Street Medical Centre in the city centre.

Help by not spreading the virus

“”

MORE than 100 people have registered an interest in designing their own dream home in Stoke-on-Trent. Seven plots of land in Penkhull and 13 plots in Hanford are being made available for homebuilders to create custom-designed properties with four or five bedrooms. The scheme is an important element of Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s Mandate for Change and aims to provide more executive housing in the city. The Penkhull site, off Newcastle Lane, is expected to move forward for development first, with prospective buyers already being invited to discuss potential plots. Prices for individual plots are expected to start at £35,000.

CHILDREN and young people are being given a behind-thescenes tour of the Civic Centre as part of a campaign to raise their awareness of how their local council operates. Stoke-on-Trent City Council is hosting a series of events during Local Democracy Week between October 15 and 20. Events are being held to encourage children and young people to discuss the Mandate for Change with councillors and explore what is important to them. All year round the city council encourages young people to: ● Get to know their local councillors and learn about their roles and responsibilities; ● Be listened to, and express their own views on political roles; and ● Find out about the democratic and decision-making processes, and how they can take part in them. ● For further information please contact Member Services on (01782) 232751, or by email to memberservices@ stoke.gov.uk

Not everyone with flu needs to seek medical help, most people can look after themselves.

Over 100 sign up to innovative design and build homes plan

Succeeding Together O P E N

E V E N I N G

F O R

2 0 1 3 - 1 5

I N TA K E

The Trinity Sixth Form is an innovative and exciting development for the provision of post-sixteen education in your local area.

Programme manager Philip Brundrett said: “Interest has exceeded our expectations and shows there is a market for larger and more executive housing in the city. The custom homes scheme is going to be something different, but exciting for the city.” Plots on Wilson Road, in Hanford, are owned by the national housing and regeneration delivery organisation, the Homes and Communities Agency, and will be marketed later in the year. ● Anyone who wants to find out more about the custom homes scheme should call Philip Brundrett on 01782 234850.

Students go behind the civic scenes

Public reminded over seasonal

Dr Kanneganti added: “Not everyone with flu needs to seek medical help, most people can look after themselves. As well as taking plenty of fluids, people can help by not spreading the virus. This includes practising good hand hygiene, carrying tissues to cover a cough and catch sneezes with and disposing of used tissues properly.” Complications such as bronchitis and pneumonia can arise in those with long-term medical conditions including chronic respiratory, heart or kidney disease, or a weakened immune system. People aged 65 or over, those in long-stay care facilities and the main carers of elderly or disabled people are also advised to have the vaccination. Anyone who has not been called for a flu jab but who thinks they need it should contact their local GP surgery or health centre.

Our City

JOIN US AT ANY OF THE FOLLOWING OPEN EVENINGS: Tuesday 16th October 2012, 7pm at St John Fisher Catholic College Wednesday 17th October 2012, 7pm at St Thomas More Catholic College Tuesday 23rd October 2012, 7pm at St Margaret Ward Catholic College Wednesday 24th October 2012, 7pm at Maryhill High School St Margaret Ward Catholic College Little Chell Lane, Tunstall, Stoke-on-Trent, ST6 6LZ T: 01782 234477 F: 01782 234483 E: smwadmin@sgfl.org.uk W: www.st-margaretward.stoke.sch.uk

St Thomas More Catholic College Longton Hall Road, Longton, Stoke-on-Trent, ST3 3NJ T: 01782 234734 F: 01782 234898 E: office@stmcc.net W: www.stmcc.net

St John Fisher Catholic College Ashfields New Road, Newcastleunder-Lyme, Staffordshire, ST5 2SJ T: 01782 615636 F: 01782 346339 E: office@sjfcc.net W: www.sjfcc.net

Maryhill High School Media Arts College Gloucester Road, Kidsgrove, Stoke-on-Trent, ST7 4DL T: 01782 296751 F: 01782 296771 E: office@maryhill-high.staffs.sch.uk W: www.maryhill-high.co.uk

www.trinity6.com

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Our City O C T O B E R 2 0 1 2

Government changes to benefits – 2012

Big welfare shake-up will

hit home finances T

HE Government is abolishing the current Council Tax Benefit system. From 1 April 2013 Stoke-on-Trent City Council, like all other local authorities, must replace this system with a new local Council Tax Support scheme on a much reduced budget. This is a major change made by Government that will have a significant impact on both the council’s budget, and the pockets of families and individuals across our city. This Our City feature gives you some information to help you understand the proposed changes and how you will be affected. It also tells you where to go for further information and advice. Under the new scheme,

By Councillor Paul Shotton Deputy Council Leader pensioners who are receiving Council Tax Benefit will be protected and the council proposes to protect severely disabled claimants and under 25s actively seeking work. This means it is very likely that most people of working age will have to pay something towards their Council Tax bill. For some this will be the first time they will have a Council Tax bill. How much the bill is will depend on individual circumstances. The council is already looking at ways of providing additional support to those in the greatest hardship.

Under the new scheme, pensioners who are receiving Council Tax Benefit will be protected and the council proposes to protect severely disabled claimants and under 25s actively seeking work. The council is already looking at ways of providing additional support to those in the greatest hardship.

As this is such a significant change, it is essential that local people play a real and meaningful part in shaping our new Council Tax Support scheme. During this eight-week consultation we will be engaging with residents, partners and voluntary organisations to understand the impact these changes will have on local people. Your views and feedback will help us to shape the final local Council Tax Support scheme for the residents of Stoke-on-Trent. I urge you to please fill in the questionnaire on the right and send it back to us. Alternatively you can complete it online at stoke.gov.uk

Existing Council Tax discounts and exemptions, such as the 25 per cent Single Person Discount and the exemption for people who are severely mentally impaired and live on their own have not changed and are not part of this consultation.

Different ways the public can have a say on the impact of the plans THE city council started talking to the public on 21 September 2012 and the consultation will continue until 16 November 2012. There are lots of ways to have a say and help shape the new scheme: Questionnaires: A questionnaire is printed on the next two pages. Further copies of the questionnaire will be available at council venues including local centres, one stop

shops, children’s centres and libraries. Or you can call 01782 234577 or email us at cts.consultation@stoke.gov.uk and we will send one to you. If you need help completing the questionnaire, please call us on the above number. Please return completed questionnaires, no stamp required, to

Views will shape response Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s proposals for working under the Government’s changes are aimed at protecting the most vulnerable people in our communities. But the public’s views on how the changes will affect them will help the city council fine tune its plans, and make sure those who can least afford to pay are protected. Any feedback received will be used to help shape a local Council Tax Support scheme for Stoke-on-Trent.

Council Tax Support Consultation, FREEPOST ST16 49, Staffordshire Observatory, Staffordshire County Council, Wedgwood Building, Tipping Street, Stafford ST16 2BR. Partner Agencies: Organisations who work closely with the city council will be encouraging their members or customers to complete surveys as part of the consultation exercise. In some cases they will provide help with completing the survey. Online: Visit stoke.gov.uk where you’ll find all the information about the consultation and also be able to complete the questionnaire online. Survey: We will be using a market research company to talk to a sample of Council Tax payers and residents to find out their views.

How the Government’s chang payments could affect differ Single person, living alone in a Band A property claiming Disability Living Allowance (Care Component – highest rate) and Income Support.

NO CHANGE – will not pay any contribution

£4.79 A W

Couple living in a Band E property. One works part-time. One claims Employment Support Allowance.

£12.68 A WEEK WORSE OFF

£4.56 A W

A 56-year-old man living alone in a Band A property, claiming Invalid Care Allowance and receiving a small works pension, with £11,200 savings.

£11.59 A WEEK WORSE OFF

£6.40 A W

A working man living alone in a Band A property with a weekly wage of £121.60.

79p A WEEK WORSE OFF

£5.64 A W

REMEMBER: pensioners claiming pension credit will be protec te to protect people with a severe disability and young people

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OCTOBER 2012

nges to benefit erent people.

Local Council Tax Support Scheme Consultation Feedback provided on this form will be used to help shape the final local Council Tax Support scheme

Single person with two children, not working and claiming Income Support.

Q1 Are you answering this survey as...? ■ An individual ■ An organisation representing a community Q2 If you are answering this survey as an organisation, which group/membership does your organisation represent? ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

QP1 How reasonable do you think this proposal is? Very Reasonable Neither reasonable reasonable nor unreasonable

Unreasonable

Very unreasonable

Protecting ■ severely disabled

■

Protecting ■ under 25s actively seeking work

■

QP1a Please use the space below for any comments you may have. ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

QP5 How reasonable do think this proposal is as a way of contributing to the savings that need to be made? Very Neither reasonable Very reasonable Reasonable nor unreasonable Unreasonable unreasonable ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ QP5a Please use the space below for any comments you may have. ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Proposal 6 Current scheme: In the current scheme, a person could get 100 per cent Council Tax Benefit no matter how large their house is. Proposed new scheme: We propose to change this so that Council Tax Support is limited to the level that would be given for a smaller house.We propose to limit the amount of Council Tax Support someone will get to 65 per cent of the Council Tax charge for a band D property. QP6 How reasonable do think this proposal is as a way of contributing to the savings that need to be made? Very Neither reasonable Very reasonable Reasonable nor unreasonable Unreasonable unreasonable ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ QP6a Please use the space below for any comments you may have.

QP2 How reasonable do you think this proposal is? Very Neither reasonable reasonable Reasonable nor unreasonable ■ ■ ■

Unreasonable ■

Very unreasonable ■

Proposal 7 Current scheme: Some residents are not entitled to Council Tax Benefit in their own right because their own income is too high or they have too much in savings.However,they can claim a Second Adult Rebate, for a reduction of up to 25 per cent off their bill,because they have another adult living with them who is on a low income. Proposed new scheme: We propose to remove Second Adult Rebate.

QP7 How reasonable do you think this proposal is as a way of contributing to the savings that need to be made? Very Neither reasonable Very reasonable Reasonable nor unreasonable Unreasonable unreasonable ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

QP7a Please use the space below for any comments you may have.

QP2a Please use the space below for any comments you may have. ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Proposal 3 Current scheme: Under the current scheme, if someone receives a War Disablement or War Widow(er)’s Pension from the Department for Work and Pensions, it will not affect the amount of Council Tax Benefit that they can receive.This is because none of the War Pension is counted as income. Proposed new scheme: We propose to keep this the same. QP3 How reasonable do you think this proposal is as a way of contributing to the savings that need to be made? Very Neither reasonable Very reasonable Reasonable nor unreasonable Unreasonable unreasonable ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ QP3a Please use the space below for any comments you may have. ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

✃

ec ted and the council proposes ople actively seeking work.

QP4a Please use the space below for any comments you may have.

Current scheme: Under the current scheme, child maintenance is not included as income when calculating a claim. Proposed new scheme: We propose to keep this the same.

A WEEK WORSE OFF

Very unreasonable ■

Proposal 2

A woman living in a Band B property with her 21-year-old son. She works 20 hours a week earning £121.60. Her son earns £200 a week.

Unreasonable ■

Current scheme: Under the current scheme,Council Tax Benefit can be given to those of working age for up to 100 per cent of their Council Tax bill. Proposed new scheme: We propose to reduce this to 65 per cent in the local scheme.This means that all working aged claimants who are not protected (protected claimants are those classed as severely disabled and in receipt of the Severe Disability Premium and those under 25 actively seeking work) would be expected to pay at least 35 per cent of their Council Tax bill.

Current scheme: Under the current scheme,the Council Tax Benefit entitlement can be up to 100 per cent of the Council Tax bill for all claimants. Proposed new scheme: Pensioners who claim Council Tax Support will continue to receive help for up to 100 per cent of their Council Tax bill as they have been protected by the Government under a national scheme. In the draft local Council Tax Support scheme, we also propose to protect working age claimants who are classed as severely disabled and entitled to Severe Disability Premium and claimants who are under 25 and actively seeking work.

A WEEK WORSE OFF

QP4 How reasonable do you think this proposal is? Very Neither reasonable reasonable Reasonable nor unreasonable ■ ■ ■

Q1 Every household with working age members should pay something towards their Council Tax bill. ■ Strongly agree ■ Agree ■ Neither agree/disagree ■ Disagree ■ Strongly disagree

Proposal 1

A couple living in a Band A property with three children aged 11, nine and five. One adult works 35 hours a week and they receive Tax Credits and Child Benefit.

Current scheme: We currently disregard any child care costs when calculating Council Tax Benefit.This means we deduct the amount of money a claimant pays for their child care before calculating their Council Tax Benefit entitlement.This is to ensure that working parents are no worse off than someone on the same level of income who does not work. Proposal: We propose to keep this the same.

Proposal 5

OUR PROPOSALS

A WEEK WORSE OFF

Proposal 4

To what extent do you agree with the following principles?

Q2 The local Council Tax Support scheme should encourage people to work. ■ Strongly agree ■ Agree ■ Neither agree/disagree ■ Disagree ■ Strongly disagree

A woman working full-time, whose sister who receives Income Support lives with her, in a Band A property.

PRINCIPLES

A WEEK WORSE OFF

Our City

............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Proposal 8 Current scheme: Under the current scheme,claimants are able to have savings of up to £16,000 and still receive support towards their Council Tax bill. Proposed new scheme: We propose to reduce this limit to £6,000. QP8 How reasonable do you think this proposal is as a way of contributing to the savings that need to be made? Very Neither reasonable Very reasonable Reasonable nor unreasonable Unreasonable unreasonable ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ QP8a Please use the space below for any comments you may have.

Continued overleaf

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Our City O C T O B E R 2 0 1 2

Proposal 9 Current scheme: Under the current scheme, Child Benefit is not included as income when calculating a claim. Proposed new scheme: For the new scheme, we propose to include Child Benefit payments as income when calculating the claimant’s Council Tax Support. QP9 How reasonable do you think this proposal is as a way of contributing to the savings that need to be made? Very Neither reasonable Very reasonable Reasonable nor unreasonable Unreasonable unreasonable ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ QP9a Please use the space below for any comments you may have. ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Q2 We are aware that some groups of people may be more affected than others when the local Council Tax Support scheme is introduced in April. We have identified a few groups that may be affected by these changes. Please tell us whether you think the changes we have proposed will have a high, medium or low impact on each of these groups. High Medium Low Don’t know Families with children ■ ■ ■ ■ Lone parents ■ ■ ■ ■ Carers ■ ■ ■ ■ Part-time workers ■ ■ ■ ■ Full-time workers ■ ■ ■ ■ People who are disabled ■ ■ ■ ■ Single people and couples without children ■ ■ ■ ■ People who are unemployed ■ ■ ■ ■ Q3 Please tell us about any other groups who may be affected by the changes.

Q4 How are the groups you have told us about affected by the proposed changes? If you are answering as an organisation, please tell us how these changes would affect the group(s) you represent.

Proposal 10 Current scheme: To provide an incentive for working, we disregard a certain proportion of a working claimant’s earnings so they will be better off than someone on the same level of income who does not work.Under the current scheme,this is £5 per week for single claimants,£10 per week for couples and £25 per week for lone parents. Proposed new scheme: To make the new scheme simple and to provide an additional incentive to work, we propose to introduce a flat rate of £25 per week whether you are single,in a couple or a lone parent. QP10 How reasonable do you think this proposal is? Very Neither reasonable reasonable Reasonable nor unreasonable ■ ■ ■

Q5 If you are answering as an organisation, please tell us how these proposed changes would impact on the services you provide? ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Unreasonable ■

Very unreasonable ■

QP10a Please use the space below for any comments you may have.

Q6 What do you think we could do to ensure a smooth transition into the new scheme for those people affected by the changes we propose? ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Q1 Are you a resident of Stoke-on-Trent?

Proposal 11 Current scheme: Council Tax Benefit is assessed on the needs of the claimant, partner and dependant children. Council Tax Benefit is reduced if you have other adults (called non-dependants) living in the household.The amount of deduction depends on their income. Proposed new scheme: Current rules that some adults do not trigger a deduction will be retained.We propose that Council Tax Support will be reduced for any other non-dependants living in the claimant’s household.If the non-dependant is not working or earning a very low wage then the deduction would be £5 per week.If the non-dependant is working and earning a higher wage then the deduction would be £10 per week. QP11 How reasonable do you think this proposal is as a way of contributing to the savings that need to be made? Very Neither reasonable Very reasonable Reasonable nor unreasonable Unreasonable unreasonable ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ QP11a Please use the space below for any comments you may have. ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Proposal 12

■ Yes

■ No

Postcode ........................................................

Q2 Are you submitting your views as... (tick all that apply) ■ A Council Tax Benefit claimant ■ Voluntary organisation ■ A relative of a Council Tax Benefit claimant ■ Community group ■ A friend of a Council Tax Benefit claimant ■ Housing association ■ Nationally or locally elected member/MP ■ Partner organisation ■ Resident outside of Stoke-on-Trent ■ Private landlord ■ Resident of Stoke-on-Trent ■ None of these

Unreasonable ■

Very unreasonable ■

QP12a Please use the space below for any comments you may have. ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

IMPACT OF THE CHANGES Q1 Does your household receive Council Tax benefit? ■ Yes ■ No ■ Don’t know Q1a What impact will the proposed changes have to your financial situation, or the financial situation of those communities you represent? ■ Very high ■ High ■ Medium ■ Low ■ Very low Q1b Please use the space below for any comments you may have. ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

✃

■ Other

If other,please specify ....................................................................................................................................................................................... Q3 Does your name appear on the Council Tax bill for your household? ■ Yes ■ No ■ Don’t know Q4 Does anyone in your household receive any of the following benefits? (tick all that apply) ■ Council Tax Benefit ■ Carer’s Allowance ■ Child Tax Credit ■ Attendance Allowance ■ Disability Living Allowance ■ Income Support ■ Housing Benefit ■ Job Seeker’s Allowance ■ Child Benefit Q5 Would you say that any of the following describes your household? ■ Family with one or two dependant children ■ Family with three or more dependant children ■ Lone parent household ■ Single person household or a couple without children ■ Household includes someone who is disabled ■ Household with full and/or part-time workers ■ None of these Q6 Do you regularly provide unpaid support caring for someone?

Current scheme: Under the current scheme, claimants who are suffering extreme financial hardship can claim a Discretionary Housing Payment to help with their Council Tax.The Government is changing the rules so this will no longer be possible. Proposed new scheme: We propose to establish a small, cash limited hardship fund to help support those claimants who are in extreme financial hardship. QP12 How reasonable do you think this proposal is? Very Neither reasonable reasonable Reasonable nor unreasonable ■ ■ ■

ABOUT YOU

■ Yes

■ No

MONITORING QUESTIONS

Giving the following information is optional but it will help us to use the information you have provided more effectively. Q1 Are you male or female?

■ Female

■ Male

■ Prefer not to say

Q1a Is your gender identity the same as the gender you were assigned at birth? ■ Yes ■ No ■ Prefer not to say Q2 What is your age? What is your age?

■ 18-24 ■ 55-64

■ 25-34 ■ 65-74

■ 35-44 ■ 75+

Q3 What is your ethnic origin? ■ Asian or Asian British ■ Black or Black British ■ White – British ■ White – Other

■ 45-54 ■ Prefer not to say

■ Mixed Heritage ■ Chinese ■ Prefer not to say ■ Other

■ Communication ■ Mobility

■ Hearing ■ Physical

■ Learning ■ Visual

■ Mental health ■ Other

If other,please specify ....................................................................................................................................................................................... Q6 What is your sexual orientation? ■ Bisexual ■ Gay woman ■ Gay man ■ Heterosexual ■ Prefer not to say ■ Other If other,please specify ....................................................................................................................................................................................... Q7 Are you receiving a Retirement Pension or Pension Credit? ■ Yes ■ No ■ Prefer not to say Q8 What is your relationship status? ■ Single ■ Married

■ Civil Partnership ■ Prefer not to say

Thank you for completing this survey. Please post your completed survey form to us (no stamp needed) at: Council Tax Support Consultation, FREEPOST ST16 49, Staffordshire Observatory, Staffordshire County Council, Wedgwood Building, Tipping Street, Stafford ST16 2BR.

■ Living as a couple ■ None of these

Young people have key panel role YOUNG people in care and care leavers play a key role in interviewing thousands of people for different kinds of jobs within Children and Young People’s Services and Stoke-on-Trent City Council. Through the Young People’s Panel, they give another perspective during the interview process while helping lay the foundations for a good relationship before staff are appointed to work with them. The interview panels also benefit those young people involved as they have the opportunity to learn transferable skills such as good communication and organisation. The panel takes part not only in job interviews but also when the council puts services like specialist educational or advocacy services out to contract. Young people also interview prospective foster carers and their views are taken into account by the formal Fostering Panel when considering applicants as foster carers.

Very professional Many interviewed by the Young People’s Panel have gone on to be appointed as Senior Managers, Social Workers, Residential Care Workers and Child Protection Managers. In May 2012, the panel helped interview candidates for the position of the Assistant Chief Executive. Carers Angela and Colin, who were interviewed by the Young People’s Panel, said: “The interview panel was very professional and the questions were well thought out and relevant. The young people tried to draw out the reasons why we wanted to foster.” Jasmine, 17, who has been doing interviews for four years, said:“I actually ended up interviewing my own social worker and he is a very good social worker. I’m happy that he got the job”. Beate Wagner, Assistant Director, Vulnerable Children and Corporate Parenting, said: “The young people have made a fantastic contribution to our recruitment processes. They are asking extremely probing questions and give us very full feedback. “This is helping us to identify and select the high quality candidates we need to serve the city.”

OCTOBER 2012

City City cycling cycling safety safety boosted boosted by by

the ‘Wiggo’ factor YCLESTOKE is urging everyone on two wheels to get training and take the necessary precautions as it backs Olympic gold medallist Bradley Wiggins for highlighting cycle safety.

Free tuition for children is available in schools and there are confidence camps for adults – all at a time when the city has an expanding 160 kilometres of safe cycling routes with 50 per cent of them off-road. Wiggins put cycle safety on the agenda when he suggested making cycle helmets compulsory during his Olympic press conference after a cyclist was killed in an accident at London’s Olympic Park. Brian Edwards, Team Manager for the council’s Safe and Sustainable Transport Scheme, said: “All cyclists should have the correct cycling accessories including helmets, lighting and hi-viz clothing and, as motorists, we should drive in a safe and responsible manner, paying particular attention to vulnerable road users such as cyclists.”

Free cycle helmet CycleStoke stages cycling safety initiatives each year like the ‘Be Safe, Be Seen’ campaign as well as ‘Dr Bike’ maintenance sessions. A free adult commuter confidence session is being staged at the Civic Centre, Kingsway, on 24 October with free children’s cycle training taking place at Fenton Manor Leisure Centre on 2 January 2013. To book a place on these sessions, which can last up to two hours, contact Cyclist Training Ltd on 01785 818193. Adult cyclists who book a place receive a CycleStoke high visibility jacket while the first 50 children who book for January receive a free cycle helmet suitable for seven to nine-year-olds. See page 24 – Tour of Britain success.

For more information go to stoke.gov.uk/cyclestoke and look under Get Trained or email cyclestoke@stoke.gov.uk

Keen cyclist John Mollart rides to work through Burslem. Inset, Olympic and Tour de France hero Bradley Wiggins.

Need job advice? Speak to JET PEOPLE who need advice on getting back into training or finding a job have been urged to contact the city council’s Jobs, Enterprise and Training (JET) service. JET client Amanda Freeman has backed the service after it helped her complete an IT course and start another in Business Administration, before starting to volunteer in an administrative capacity. Amanda said: “If anyone asked me if it was worth calling the JET team I would tell them to do it. I was nervous but the advisor made me feel at ease and helped me to overcome my nerves by concentrating on what I needed and didn’t just treat me like a number. “Things started happening straight away and they just keep getting better.” ● For help or information call 01782 233530, pop into The Store on Tontine Street or see www.jet2work.org.uk

The Job Enterprise Training team (JET) based in the Store, the former post office in the city centre offers a range of free individually tailored services from job search and work related training for people from Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire. Our picture shows JET client and volunteer Amanda Freeman, left, Employment Advisor Julie Moran and JET Team Leader Diane Wardle, right.

Our City

Landlords sign up to register which gives tenants quality mark MORE than 400 private landlords have now signed up to a scheme jointly run by the city council, which is designed to give people living in rented properties peace of mind. The Landlord Accreditation Scheme, a joint initiative involving the council and neighbouring local authorities as well as the North Staffordshire Landlords Association, aims to improve the quality of rented housing stock and boost the property management skills of members. Benefits include certificates to recognise good property standards, free promotion of vacant properties, development training, tenancy advice and periodic inspections. Tunstall landlord Dee Jones, the scheme’s 400th member, said:“I’m passionate about people having good, sound homes which look reasonable and function well. I like to do things well and the scheme gives members access to some excellent support and information.” Councillor Janine Bridges, the council’s Cabinet member for Housing, Neighbourhoods and Community Safety, said:“The scheme provides encouragement, support and incentives to members whose membership sends out a clear message to their tenants that they are willing to achieve and adhere to good property standards.” For more details contact the scheme co-ordinator Erica Deaville on 01782 232271 or email mail@landlordaccreditation.co.uk

Sue Steele, of Café Divine in Hartshill, enjoys a cup of Fairtrade coffee.

Firms urged to join city Fairtrade drive BUSINESSES are being urged to show their support for farmers and workers in developing countries by using or selling Fairtrade products. Stoke-on-Trent is one of over 750 Fairtrade towns and cities and the city council uses Fairtrade products in meetings, schools and sells them through retail outlets. The Fairtrade mark appears on goods including tea, coffee and fresh fruit, guaranteeing that producers receive fair pay for their work. Sue Steele, a partner of Café Divine, in Hartshill which serves and sells Fairtrade drinks and confectionery, said:“We use Fairtrade products because we want other people to know about it. Our customers are impressed and it shows we are a caring business.” Ann Worthington, Chair of Fairtrade Action in Stoke-on-Trent, said:“The help farmers get from Fairtrade can change their lives. Not only does it provide them with a higher, steady income, but it also allows them to better their standards of living and help the communities in which they live.” ● For more information, visit Ann Worthington at the Fairtrade Centre, Gitana Street, City Centre, or call 01782 817720.

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Volunteers in pilot scheme to help reduce re-offending A pilot scheme to find a community-minded way of dealing with offences such as antisocial behaviour, damage to property and shoplifting, is about to start in the north of the city. Sixteen volunteer residents have been trained to take part in Neighbourhood Resolution Panels, which will include the victim, the offender and on occasion members of the community, with the aim of looking at cases of lower level crime. Staffordshire has been chosen by the Ministry of Justice to be a pilot for its Restorative Justice Programme in which victims get the opportunity to tell offenders about the impact of their crime and help decide on an appropriate punishment. It also offers offenders, particularly first-time entrants, an alternative resolution to the criminal justice system. Dawn Cliff, Reducing Re-offending Programme Lead for the Safer City Partnership said:“The pilot aims to find a more community-minded way of how we deal with offending. Taking part is voluntary and offenders and victims both have to agree to participate. If either feel uncomfortable, the case won’t be referred to the pilot and will be dealt with in the traditional way.”

Supportive environment The pilot has three distinct levels. Level one is “street level” – handed out by police officers for offences such as dropping litter or shoplifting, if this is in line with the store’s own policy. The third and highest level is also run by appropriately trained police officers and is for offenders who have had a previous prison sentence. The Neighbourhood Resolution Panel is the second level and brings together the victim and offender in a supportive environment. The panel is facilitated by two community volunteers and its aim is to set out an agreement signed by all parties that outlines a restorative action to be taken by the offender. This could be something as simple as a written or verbal apology from one party to the other. Typically, the panel will discuss and decide on neighbour disputes, low level antisocial behaviour or criminal damage by a young person, for example graffiti in a local park. “We anticipate the panels will look at their first cases this autumn. At the moment referrals are being made by the police and the Partnership but in time will come also from housing officers and schools,” added Dawn. The pilot is part of an Integrated Offender Management project, where Staffordshire Police work in partnership with Victim Support and the local authority. ● For more information about the pilot contact Elizabeth Nock, Victim Support, on (01785) 711406 or 07415559112.

Alcohol Liaison Nurse Sam Rowland carries out an assessment with a patient in the day room of Ward 230.

Hospital centre supports patients with alcohol issues S

TOKE-on-Trent has one of the highest rates of alcoholrelated harm in the country, together with greater than average levels of social deprivation.

The Alcohol Liaison Service at the University Hospital of North Staffordshire, is seeing an increasing number of patients admitted with alcoholrelated problems along with a rise in the number of 20-30 year-olds with liver disease caused by drinking. The service, launched in August 2011 with funding and support from the Stoke-on-Trent Safer City Partnership, consisted of one liaison nurse initially and has since expanded into a team of three, with one nurse funded by Newcastle Primary Care Trust. The team sees approximately 125 referrals a month. Lead Alcohol Liaison Nurse Angela

Hulstone said: “Alcohol is a huge problem, particularly in areas such as Stoke-on-Trent with high levels of poverty. Drinking above the recommended daily guidelines has great impact on the health and well-being of the population.” Previously ward manager of the hospital’s liver ward, Angela worked on the ward for 11 years and nursed many people severely affected by alcohol with liver disease and saw many deaths.

Fantastic opportunity “I have seen the devastation and destruction alcohol causes,” said Angela who assesses and plans the care of patients with complex needs due to heavy drinking. My new role is a fantastic opportunity to be able to influence and reduce the rate of harm and deaths by providing support and referral to services for ongoing assistance.”

Case study SONIA* aged 31, started drinking heavily after finding herself in a violent relationship with an alcoholic. She was referred to the alcohol liaison service at UHNS in December 2011 and says that was the turning point. “If I hadn’t met Angela, I would never have known what I was doing to myself and I wouldn’t have stopped drinking. Angela has been more than just a nurse, she’s visited me in hospital when I have been admitted with other problems and always explains everything to me, like what

blood tests are for and what happens next. I know I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for her support.” After more than six months alcoholfree, Sonia was put on the list for a liver transplant. She has undergone extensive liver assessment and is waiting for a suitable donor. “When I was accepted for a transplant, Angela was the first person I rang with the news. I wouldn’t have got this far without her.” ● To protect identity, name has been changed.

Angela and colleague Samantha Rowland, work across UHNS’s wards, whilst Rachael Swift is based in A&E. Samantha and Rachael were Staff Nurses on the liver ward and A&E respectively, so also have a wealth of experience. Patients referred to the service are assessed for their alcohol use to determine the level of support and intervention they need. For instance, anyone physically dependent on alcohol may require detoxification to safely manage withdrawal symptoms. In some cases the nurses facilitate continuing treatment at home with support from Stoke on Trent Community Alcohol Service. The team is also training staff to screen patients for alcohol use and enable them to give brief advice on units and recommended daily limits. Once training is complete, all patients admitted to UHNS will be screened for alcohol use and given advice if shown to be at risk of harm. “Alcohol misuse not only affects a person’s health and well-being but it also affects all aspects of their life including relationships, housing and employment. Often, people need lots of support to deal with a number of issues,” Angela added. The service operates Monday to Friday and has links with other services providing on-going support and promoting recovery including Aquarius, Adsis, RIOT, community detox nurses, matron for the homeless, Arch and Brighter Futures. A recent Government-funded review of alcohol liaison services in the Midlands praised the UHNS service, stating: “The alcohol team in the hospital presents a very positive picture. The lead clinician has an abundance of energy, good ideas and clearly already has a presence in the wards and on A&E.”

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OCTOBER 2012

Extra support for victims of

Our City

Student social worker Trish Frain in the kitchen of one of the flats at a refuge for the victims of domestic violence.

domestic violence T

HIS year sees two major developments open their doors to women and children in the city who are victims of domestic violence.

Julia House, the city’s first purpose-built refuge, opened in Burslem in April, while the Sunrise Centre, thought to be among the first of its kind in the country, will provide a range of support to survivors of domestic violence. The centre, in Lichfield Street, Hanley, is on track to open next month. Domestic violence is on the rise nationally and Stoke-on-Trent, in line with other areas of social deprivation, has a higher-thanaverage percentage of perpetrators. Julia House provides 11 selfcontained apartments for women and their children escaping domestic violence. Wendy Wainwright, Head of Domestic Violence Services for Arch (North Staffs), a charity supporting families affected by domestic violence and which manages the refuge, said: “Women are referred to the refuge by other services but they can also refer themselves. “They all have individual needs but they stem from domestic violence – homelessness, benefits, legal issues, their children and possibly parenting matters, and a variety of health

“” The opening of the Sunrise is a personal dream. My hope is that women will be encouraged to come forward and benefit from the services on offer. needs whether physical, psychological or emotional. “The refuge aims to provide a safe and supportive environment. The average stay is between three and four months, although some women stay longer perhaps due to legal reasons such as an ongoing request to remain in the country, or housing difficulties.” The Sunrise Centre is a different type of domestic violence service as it is for women who are not in crisis and who have left a violent relationship – but who still may need support

to deal with the aftermath. “These are women who may be suffering from a severe lack of confidence, low self-esteem and a lack of self-worth and who may feel socially isolated having lost contact with family members or friends,” added Wendy. “And they may have left a violent Project relationship years Manager Vicky ago and appear Evans in the to have dealt activity room at with the the women’s impact, refuge. but in

Refuge named after manager

reality they have not.” The centre will offer a range of services to women, children and young people, who have survived domestic violence, including support, practical advice, counselling and both social and therapeutic activities such as arts and crafts. It will also offer a new accredited domestic violence recovery course covering areas including effective communications and dealing with difficult people to employability skills. “Participants may go on to work as volunteers in the domestic violence service or to paid employment. “The opening of the Sunrise is a personal dream. “I am so excited and pleased to see it finally coming to fruition and my hope is that women will be encouraged to come forward and benefit from the services on offer,” Wendy added. Women can refer themselves to either service. ● For information contact: Sunrise Centre, email: sunrise@ archnorthstaffs.org.uk ● Julia House refuge, call: 01782 817055

JULIA House replaces accommodation known as The Bluebell or The Potteries Women’s Refuge in Waterloo Road, Burslem. It is named after Julia Watson, the late manager of The Bluebell, who worked for over 30 years in the city’s domestic violence service and was herself a survivor. “Naming it after mum is a fantastic tribute,” said her daughter Michelle Byrne, who followed her mother into the domestic violence service and is a project officer at Julia House. “The Bluebell was six bedrooms and mum fought for years to keep it going and for better facilities. “The new refuge is exactly what she would have wanted. It’s sad she didn’t live to see her hard work come to fruition but I know she would have been so proud.” Julia had left an abusive marriage and taken her three children including her youngest Michelle, then aged nine, to a domestic violence refuge at Penkhull. She later became a volunteer for the service and eventually manager of The Bluebell. She retired five years ago but died just five weeks later.

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Our City O C T O B E R 2 0 1 2

Spotlight on our city’s RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATIONS

Pride in their achievements FOURTEEN years ago stalwart Meir resident Janet Bellis provided the enthusiasm to get Broadway Community Association off the ground and since then she and the committee have notched up many improvements. “We’ve had a lot of success with parking and highway problems,” said Janet.“We campaigned to get Bright Street made one-way because after the tunnel was closed to traffic, drivers started using the very narrow Box Lane as a rat-run. “We also successfully campaigned for changes to parking restrictions which were affecting local retailers as drivers couldn’t pull up outside their shops, and managed to get uneven flagstones replaced with tarmac along the entire length of Broadway. And we have built a good relationship with Longton Police and worked closely with officers to close two houses being used for drugs,” she added. Then there is Meir’s display of hanging baskets and the annual Christmas tree lighting, which up to 1,000 people a year have enjoyed for the past dozen years.This year’s switchon takes place at Meir Community Education Centre on 7 December. She added: “We have done a lot of work and I feel proud of what’s been achieved. But we now need an injection of young blood to keep the association going.”

Support for people wanting to set up a new group TRAINING and support is on offer for people across Stoke-on-Trent who want to improve their communities by setting up their own voluntary organisations or residents’ associations. Help is available to homeowners and tenants and over 60 groups already operate around the city as people dedicate their spare time to improving their areas or just

making sure people are heard. Mark Bourne from the city council’s Northern area Involvement Team said:“Many of the groups that we already support have made a positive difference to their area – why not follow their lead and see just how much you can achieve? “Setting up a group or residents’ association is easy to do and you can reap some real benefits from being involved.”

Ethos is to help

the needy S

ET up a decade ago, Townsend Community Residents’ Association is proud to be different. It has a social responsibility ethos and is full-on in supporting those in need.

The association provides a food redistribution service, buying food and making up parcels of eight items that residents on low income can collect for £2. It also runs a recycle-reuse scheme, and a “green and grow” project in the back garden of 7 Theodore Road, its community base. “Residents can work the garden and learn how to grow things and in exchange for their labours they get free produce,” explained chair Karen Bowen. “We have had Social

Enterprise funding and money from the local councillors’ ward budget for some of our projects,” she added. “The council owns our community house and we don’t pay rent or Council Tax but we pay all the other bills by fundraising. “The committee made the decision not to get involved in tackling residents’ problems like parking but we do support people. “Our trained volunteers do benefit checks to ensure residents get what they are entitled to, and we help asylum-seekers living in the community complete paperwork. “And there is a Friday night play club at St Mary’s church hall which has over 100 members, of which we are very proud.”

Townsend Residents’ Association volunteers Elaine Spackman and Martin Meigh pack food parcels for local people who need them.

Eyesore transformed into community garden

Improvements over 35 years THE residents’ association in the conservation area of Penkhull is one of the oldest in the city, with a 35-year history of improving the village’s environment. The long list of achievements ranges from planting hundreds of daffodil bulbs to publishing The Penkhull Recorder, delivered free to all homes three times a year, through advising on wheelie bin issues and planning permissions, to developing historical signs and a heritage trail around the village. “The PRA, as it is known, is one of the most active and respected residents’ associations in the city,” said new chairman Dr Charles Pantin. “This is largely due to the passion and commitment of the previous chairman Richard Talbot who retired in February after 11 years at the helm. “The committee liaises closely with our local councillor, Councillor Randolph Conteh, and we fund the Recorder and improvements through donations from residents, plus grants from the city council.”

● For advice contact Mark on 01782 238515, mark.bourne@stoke.gov.uk, Linda Davies from the Central area on 01782 238969, linda.adavies@stoke.gov.uk or Paul Capewell in the Southern area on 01782 237870, paul.capewell@stoke.gov.uk. Further information is available at stoke.gov.uk

Association Chairman Barrie Harrington with Imaan Shamkez and Taban Shahusmani, both of Alexandra Junior School in the community garden in Normacot.

ONE of Normacot Residents’ Association’s greatest successes has been the creation of a community garden from derelict land between Meir Road and Ludwall Road. “The land had been a dumping ground, a local eyesore, and is now a beautiful garden,” said Barrie Harrington, chairman of the association. “We brought in three local schools – Alexandra Infants and Junior and St Bartholomew’s and Belgrave Junior – and the pupils have helped with litter-picking and planting. One school has even planted flowers grown in their own greenhouse.

“We are very proud of this success which is a fantastic asset for the whole community.” Two years ago the association successfully bid for a grant to double the opening hours of the Queensberry Youth Centre to four evenings a week. Cut-backs have since caused the centre to revert to its original hours but, says Barrie: ”We feel our efforts have really contributed to keeping the centre open as others have had to close.” The committee works closely with residents and officials and has forged strong links with the police and its local city councillor, Councillor Bagh Ali.

Successful parking campaign ESTABLISHED in 2008, Tunstall North Residents’ Association is relatively new but is already making its mark in the community, having successfully campaigned to get single yellow lines removed along a stretch of High Street. Treasurer John Bannister said: “The lines were outside terraced homes so the people who live there don’t have drives and had to park their cars on the opposite side of the road. “This was very inconvenient for anyone with young children or shopping as they had to cross a busy

road to get from their car to home. “The lines weren’t necessary as the road is wide enough and we petitioned to get them removed.” The committee has also organised community skips for residents to dump their rubbish and is currently campaigning to get the derelict Hancock Pottery warehouse – a target for vandals – demolished. “Our aim is to improve the neighbourhood and local environment and also to signpost residents who have problems or concerns to the services that can help them,” he added.

Association Treasurer John Bannister in High Street where single yellow lines have been removed from the road.

Does your residents’ association have a story for Our City? email the details to ourcity@stoke.gov.uk

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Your

Baddeley, Milton and Norton

GWEN HASSALL (Labour) (01782) 263166 07557 848765 gwen.hassall@ stoke.gov.uk

ANDREW LILLEY (Labour) 07717 714010 andy.lilley@ stoke.gov.uk

Birches Head and Central Forest Park MARK MEREDITH (Labour) 07717 714020 mark.meredith@ stoke.gov.uk Twitter: @markmeredith01

Broadway and Longton East

GURMEET SINGH KALLAR (Labour) 07900 604232 gurmeetsingh.kallar@ stoke.gov.uk

Etruria and Hanley

Hartshill and Basford

Tunstall

RANDOLPH CONTEH (City Independents) (01782) 256869 07920 835902 randolph.conteh@ stoke.gov.uk

SHAZAD HUSSAIN (Labour) 07899 771815 shazad.hussain@ stoke.gov.uk

Ford Green and Smallthorne

KAREN CLARKE (Labour) 07917 270594 karen.clarke@ stoke.gov.uk

MATT WILCOX (Labour) 07810 825600 matt.wilcox@ stoke.gov.uk

TERENCE FOLLOWS (City Independents) (01782) 318127 07944 055379 terence.follows@ stoke.gov.uk

Joinerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Square

KATH BANKS (Labour) (01782) 399759 07790 699379 kath.banks@ stoke.gov.uk

RUTH ROSENAU (Labour) (01782) 501940 07870 503575 ruth.rosenau@ stoke.gov.uk Twitter: @CllrRuthRosenau

Sandford Hill

PETER HAYWARD (City Independents) (01782) 644052 07920 835839 peter.hayward@ stoke.gov.uk

Lightwood North and Normacot ALASTAIR WATSON (Labour) 07736 837822 alastair.watson@ stoke.gov.uk Twitter: @CllrActional22

Meir Park

Meir South ABI BROWN (Conservative) 07793 844169 abi.brown@ stoke.gov.uk

Sneyd Green OLWEN HAMER (Labour) 07717 714207 olwen.hamer@ stoke.gov.uk

BAGH ALI (Labour) (01782) 343246 07973 848428 bagh.ali@stoke.gov.uk

DEBBIE WHEELDON (Labour) (01782) 595043 07870 777807 debbie.wheeldon@ stoke.gov.uk

Springfields and Trent Vale DEBRA GRATTON (Labour) 07917 854981 debra.gratton@ stoke.gov.uk Twitter: @debra_gratton

JACKIE BARNES (City Independents) (01782) 845619 / 07813 539410 jackie.barnes@stoke. gov.uk

FORTHCOMING PUBLIC MEETINGS AT THE CIVIC CENTRE, STOKE:

Weston Coyney LEE WANGER (City Independents) 07971 303729 lee.wanger@ stoke.gov.uk

Dresden and Florence

Fenton West and Mount Pleasant

Hollybush and Longton West

Meir North

Penkhull and Stoke

ANDY PLATT (Labour) 07919 660221 andy.platt@ stoke.gov.uk Twitter: @CllrAndyST4

Hanford and Trentham

MUHAMMAD AUMIR (Labour) 07886 581082 muhammad.aumir@ stoke.gov.uk

MOHAMMED PERVEZ (Labour) (01782) 232468 mohammed.pervez@ stoke.gov.uk Twitter: @pervezstoke

Boothen and Oakhill

JOY GARNER (Labour) (01782) 768846 07986 442770 joy.garner@stoke.gov.uk

ANN JAMES (City Independents) (01782) 836766 ann.james@ stoke.gov.uk

SHAUN PENDER (Labour) (01782) 632104 07825 142327 shaun.pender@ stoke.gov.uk

Meir Hay

Burslem Park

PAUL SHOTTON (Labour) (01782) 434445 paul.shotton@ stoke.gov.uk

JANINE BRIDGES (Labour) (01782) 851842 07989 385631/ 07717 714205 janine.bridges@ stoke.gov.uk

DAVID CONWAY (City Independents) (01782) 790922 david.conway@ stoke.gov.uk

Moorcroft

Fenton East

ALISON WEDGWOOD (Labour) 07968 477901 alison.wedgwood@ stoke.gov.uk

NEIL DAY (Labour) (01782) 598844 07796 040002 neil.day@stoke.gov.uk

ALAN DUTTON (Labour) (01782) 824051 07982 231567 alan.dutton@ stoke.gov.uk

Great Chell and Packmoor

AMJID WAZIR (Labour) 07747 830461 amjid.wazir@ stoke.gov.uk

Little Chell and Stanfield

Blurton West and Newstead

Burslem Central

MAJID KHAN (Labour) 07989 441707 majid.khan@ stoke.gov.uk

MARTIN GARNER (Labour) (01782) 768846 martin.garner@ stoke.gov.uk

SHEILA PITT (Labour) 07957 948896 sheila.pitt@ stoke.gov.uk

GLENYS WARD (City Independents) (01782) 312670 07922 909545 glenys.ward@ stoke.gov.uk

TOM REYNOLDS (Labour) 07850 828717 tom.reynolds@ stoke.gov.uk Twitter: @longtontom.

TERRY CROWE (Labour) (01782) 269422 07818 044755 terry.crowe@ stoke.gov.uk

Hanley Park and Shelton

DUNCAN WALKER (Labour) (01782) 912422 07748 504149 duncan.walker@ stoke.gov.uk

Blurton East

PAUL BREEZE (Unaffiliated) (01782) 279684 paul.breeze@ stoke.gov.uk

Goldenhill and Sandyford

ADRIAN KNAPPER (Labour) 07714 334453 adrian.knapper@ stoke.gov.uk

Bentilee and Ubberley

JACK BRERETON (Conservative) 07855 916134 jack.brereton@ stoke.gov.uk

Eaton Park

Abbey Hulton and Townsend

Councillors

Bradeley and Chell Heath

Our City

MATTHEW FRY (Labour) 07826 891801 matthew.fry@ stoke.gov.uk

Information on city councillors was correct at the time of going to press.

Cabinet meetings are scheduled at 5.30pm: 25 October 2012, 29 November 2012 and 13 December 2012.

Full City Council meetings are scheduled at 5.30pm: 18 October 2012 and 6 December 2012.

For more information on your councillors go to stoke.gov.uk/councillors Councillors can also be contacted through the Councillor and Civic Support Team who can take messages and forward them on. They can be contacted on (01782) 231922 or 231924.

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Stadium is given new lease of life

UP AND OVER: Councillor Mark Meredith tackles the assault course and, inset left, Mark trying out the new gym.

EW look Northwood Stadium is undergoing a revamp as part of a major push to improve its services and make it more sustainable. The stadium’s Development Group has worked in partnership with Sport and Leisure Services at the city council to come up with improvements including a new assault course, extended gym facilities, squash court makeovers and a new programme of activities. More than 60 volunteers from LoveStoke also spent three days on site painting railings and steps, weeding and edging and repainting changing rooms and toilets. Councillor Mark Meredith, the Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Culture and Sport – who took the opportunity to try out the gym and assault course – said: “It’s really exciting and we have lots of new facilities to offer. We want to excite people and get them interested in exercise and challenge the perception that it’s an old site. We’ve already come up with huge improvements and plan more upgrades as we go along.” Phase one of the scheme started with the complete refurbishment of a squash court, including replastered walls, redecoration and a revitalised wooden floor, as well as repairs to a second court to make it playable. A third squash court has been converted into a new gym and comes complete with state-of-the-art weights machines and an area for free exercise. The site’s existing gym, home to rowing and running machines, has new carpets and has been redecorated.

“” We want to excite people Former Royal Marine Commandos have helped design a 20 obstacle assault course around a 500 metre track in the site’s lower field which includes waist-high walls and balance beams, U-shaped trails and even crawl nets. New indoor exercise classes with music are being launched including Athlefit, involving athletic-style equipment like foam javelins, and a Cardiotennis class, which is an aerobic work-out using tennis rackets and balls. Phase two of the improvement scheme at Northwood involves plans for a new heavy weights room and the Development Group is looking at launching monthly disabled sports sessions.

and get them interested in exercise and challenge the perception that it’s an old site. Newly launched services are accompanied by a special offer in place until 1 January 2013 of unlimited access to classes, facilities and car parking for £12.50 a month or £15 for additional use of the site’s running track. Customers can also use the city council’s re-launched Energise card for even more value. And there are other exclusive offers and discounts from selected partners. The card is free while Energise Plus costs £5.75 a year for eligible individuals

and comes with additional benefits. Councillor Meredith said: “These offers represent fantastic value for money compared to a lot of other gyms in the city. “We are bringing facilities at Northwood bang up to date and plan for a future with hopefully many more people enjoying fun and stimulating exercise classes.” ● To find out more call 01782 234400 or email northwood.stadium@stoke.gov.uk

Wiggo’s approval bodes well for city’s Tour future

Cycling legend Bradley Wiggins at the start of the stage in Trentham Gardens.

THE Stoke-on-Trent stage of the Tour of Britain has been given a seal of approval by Tour de France winner and four time Olympic Gold medallist Bradley Wiggins. The 32-year-old Tour de France and Olympic gold medal winner – known affectionately to his fans as Wiggo – suffered during the gruelling 147 kilometre stage this year and bowed out of the race afterwards through illness. But that was not before he said: “It’s great to race in Stoke-on-Trent and I’m happy to be here. Stoke-on-Trent is a great stage of the Tour of Britain.” Thousands turned out to see him line up alongside World Champion Mark Cavendish for the stage, which was eventually won by Dutchman Marc de Maar.

His trophy was a pottery charger created by renowned local ceramic artist Anita Harris. Beforehand both Wiggins and Cavendish were presented with paintings produced by Hanleybased artist Paine Profitt. They were handed over by junior riders from the local Lyme Racing Club. Members were also given the honour of leading out the race at the start of the stage. One of them, 15-year-old Sallie Birchall, said: “It’s an opportunity that won’t come round much – being able to talk to them, have a laugh with them and present them with stuff. “It’s been really good. They’re definitely heroes.” See page 19 – cycling in city boosted by the ‘Wiggo” factor.

World Champion Mark Cavendish is also pictured at Trentham.