Outlook – Summer 2015 by i•creation

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YOUR OFFICIAL SOUTHEND-ON-SEA BOROUGH COUNCIL MAGAZINE www.southend.gov.uk

ISSUE 33 Summer 2015

SUMMER

ON SEA FUN IN THE SUN FOR 2015 –

SEE CENTRE PAGES

Southend’s new look Council Councillors’ wards and contact details SEE PAGES 18 & 19

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Exciting times for sunny Southend

contents Summer 2015

By Councillor RON WOODLEY Leader of the Council £1.3m resurfacing work takes off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 SUMMER in Southend is well upon us, with a wealth of visitors, residents and businesses all enjoying the excellent weather that we have had. The centre pages promote many of the great activities that the Borough has to offer for all the family, along with some of the hidden gems. We are fortunate to live in such a wonderful Borough, and some of the stories in this edition prove how this will only improve further. On Page 5 you can read more about Southend Energy that was recently launched in partnership with OVO Energy, and how it is pledging a fairer deal for customers, and helping to provide real competition to the larger energy companies. I have switched myself and saved hundreds of pounds. On the subject of energy, I am also delighted that we will be rolling out our LED street lighting programme across the entire Borough by October 2017, helping to save £25m over 25 years and ensuring that our street lighting remains on throughout the night. Work has now started on Heath and Carby House along Victoria Avenue. These buildings have been derelict for so long so I am delighted that action is being taken. This is a key gateway into the town and further investment will regenerate and transform this area, along with providing much needed new housing. Southend-on-Sea is very much on the up. I have spoken frequently about the tough budget decisions that the council has been taking over a number of years and the need to make savings affects all parts of the council business.Therefore, to save on distribution costs, the next edition of Outlook (Winter 2015) will not be delivered to every home in the Borough, but will be available in council buildings, including the Civic Centre, libraries and the Pier along with some GP surgeries. An update on the delivery of the Spring 2016 Outlook will be given in the next edition. You can also register for an online version by emailing outlook@southend.gov.uk. I wish you all well over the coming weeks and months.

Southend Energy could cut residents’ bills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Welcome to the Hub of the Community

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Tenants move into new council home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Mobile unit gives workplace health checks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Borough’s ambitious health goal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 A Day in the Life

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Summer-on-Sea – tips for the holidays

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New waste contract saves £20m

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Foster carer keeps it in the family

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Forum design scoops top national award

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Changes to Outlook distribution Due to the need to make ongoing budget savings, the next edition of Outlook will not be delivered to all homes in the Borough.

Outlook will be available to pick up from the Civic Centre, Libraries & Museums, the Pier, Belfairs Woodland Centre, Colleges, SAVS and a number of GP Surgeries. If you would like to be added to our email list to receive a digital copy of Outlook, please email outlook@southend.gov.uk An update on the delivery of the Spring 2016 edition will be made in the Winter edition and at www.southend.gov.uk/ outlook

Meet your Councillors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18/19

for Southend What’s-on-Sea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20/21 Business is buzzing at The Hive

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Outlook 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.

Outlook is written, designed and produced by Smith Davis Press in partnership with Southend-on-Sea Borough Council. The information contained in this publication has been accepted from the contributors in good faith, and whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of going to press, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council cannot accept responsibility for any errors,misrepresentations or subsequent changes.Whilst all possible care is taken in the preparation of this publication, no responsibility for loss occasioned by any person acting as a result of the material contained herein can be accepted by Southend-on-Sea Borough Council,the authors or the publisher.Southend-on-Sea Borough Council does not endorse any of the products or services advertised within this publication.Printed by PCP. Further information about the Council,its Councillors and its services can be found on our website www.southend.gov.uk or by emailing council@southend.gov.uk or by calling 01702 215000.You can also access this information through your local library.

Say it – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

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SAFER ROADS AND PAVEMENTS: Groundsman Ian Brown pointing new paving on Nelson Street.

GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY: Group Manager for People and Organisational Development Neil Keeler with the prestigious IiP award.

Gold standard set for going the extra mile EXCELLENCE in developing and supporting Council employees has been recognised with a prestigious national accolade. Southend-on-Sea Borough Council has been awarded Gold Investors in People (IiP) Status. Neil Keeler, the Council’s People and Organisational Development Group Manager, said:“In 2007 we set an aim of becoming ‘an excellent organisation’. It’s no surprise that excellent services need excellent staff and we would never claim ‘we are there yet’ as we always strive to improve. “IiP Gold is a really significant step forward. Our people do a great job in increasingly challenging circumstances and are prepared to go the extra mile for the people of Southend. “This independently assessed standard recognises our progress in supporting staff so that they can serve Southend really well. Many of our staff live in Southend, so developing their skills and abilities is an investment in the town too.”

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£1.3m boost to top ten ROADS AND PAVEMENTS R

OAD resurfacing and footpath renewal schemes costing £1.3 million are set to further improve Southend, Leigh-onSea and Westcliff-on-Sea. Contractors are tarmacking all of some streets and parts of others as they work on a total of ten schemes during July and August. They are Western Road as well as Bailey, Gordon, Sydney, ANOTHER GOOD JOB Barnard, Eaton and Canewdon DONE: Groundsman Roads. Part of Tankerville Billy Bailey sweeps Drive, Bonchurch Avenue and up before moving Herschell Road are also being on to the next relaid. improvement. Work on six footpath renewals is already underway – they will be completed over the course of this financial year. Victory Path and part of Scratton Road/Cambridge Road have already been completed. Both sides of Dawlish, Manor and Walker Drives are to be renewed as well as part of the pavement on Colchester Road/ Colchester Close. Dave Gilkes, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council’s Highways Engineer, said: “We will work with our maintenance contractor, Marlborough Surfacing Ltd, to complete each scheme as quickly as possible so as to keep disruption to residents and visitors of Southend to a minimum.”

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New local service could

CUT ENERGY BILLS R

ESIDENTS and businesses across Southend are being offered a better deal on energy bills following the launch of a brand new power scheme. Southend Energy has pledged a fairer deal for customers within Southend, providing real competition to the larger energy companies. Four special tariffs are available and residents who have swapped

to Southend Energy already have saved an average of £239 a year. Jeremy Martin, Energy Projects Manager, said: “Switching is easy and we’ll be offering fair energy

tariffs, fair contracts and fair treatment. “There will be no exit charges and we will give customers reminders about when their first-year contract is up for renewal so they can search the market for a better deal if they choose.” Features include much reduced standing charges, 3 per cent Interest Reward on all credit balances and customers will not be charged exit fees if they later wish to change energy suppliers.

‘£367 saved with no hassle’

DEREK and Iris of Thorpe Bay have been using the same supplier for ten years and were aware that they probably weren’t getting the best deal on the market.“I thought all energy companies were alike and switching seemed like a lot of hassle that I could do without.” Then Derek spoke to Southend Energy.“I’m usually too busy to be scouting around for the best energy deal every few months so what appealed to me was that Southend Energy takes all the work out of it to make sure I’m always getting fair deal all the time,” he said. “When I went through my energy bills with the team, I expected to hear that I would save a few pounds by switching. But I was amazed when I discovered I would save £367. I’m now just wondering how I’ll spend it!”

■ For more information or to register your interest in moving your energy account to Southend Energy call 0800 4086711 or visit www.southend energy.co.uk and go to “Get a Quote”. You can also do this using the computers at the Civic Centre’s customer service centre.

The four tariffs available for residents in Southend from the new energy service are: Southend Energy Fixed: Fixed for 12 months, free to leave at any time, 33 per cent renewable energy as standard, pay monthly. The cheapest tariff. Southend Energy Greener: Fixed for 12 months, free to leave at any time, 100 per cent renewable energy, pay monthly. Southend Energy Variable: Variable price, free to leave at any time, 33 per cent renewable energy as standard, pay monthly. Southend Energy PAYG: See energy usage at a glance with free Smart meter, 33 per cent green renewable, pre-payment. The PAYG tariff, meters and service will be provided by partner OVO Energy. Tariffs provided by Southend Energy are structured to benefit the fuel-poor and those on pre-payment meters.

Southend Energy for Business has tariffs for electricity supplied to business premises. Ini tia the service will be based lly, the OVO tariffs and bra on nd but will be offered wit hin the Southend Energy offering

ENERGY APPEAL: left to right, Carl Mingard of Westcliff, Jill Poet of Southchurch and Iris and Derek Smith of Thorpe Bay, all showing the savings achieved by switching to a new Southend Energy deal. ■ Customers on Big 6 variable tariffs will realise these average savings. £239 is the average saving of dual-fuel customers that have actually switched to Southend Energy as at 05/06/2015; individual savings will vary according to current supplier, location, consumption and Southend Energy tariff options ■ Renewable electricity is generated from wind, solar, geothermal, wave, tidal, hydro, biomass, landfill gas, sewage treatment plant gas and biogas. All our renewable electricity is backed by Renewable Energy Guarantee of Origin (REGO) or EU Guarantees of Origin (GoOs) and Levy Exemption Certificates (LECs). Furthermore, OVO Energy retires these certificates to

ensure there is no double-counting. This is how OVO offers our customers competitively priced certified renewable energy ■ A phased launch of Southend Energy PAYG is being implemented now, prior to a fully branded Southend Energy PAYG launch later in the year. After signing up via Southend Energy, all communications, including letters and emails, plus the metering systems will be sent and arranged by partner, OVO Energy. This allows Southend Energy to offer Smart meters and the PAYG tariff to customers at the earliest possible time ■ Calculated at 3% per year, paid monthly based on number of days in credit and the amount left in your account after you’ve paid your bill. OVO

Report it – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

Interest Reward is capped at 12 times the amount of the current direct debit amount and is available to customers paying by advance direct debit. Terms apply: www.ovoenergy.com/coreterms2015 ■ Exit fees are not charged when you leave Southend Energy. But you may be charged a fee to switch between Southend Energy tariffs if within your fixed term contract. ■ For business tariffs, Southend Energy will act as a referrer to OVO Energy. Businesses who sign up through Southend Energy, will be an OVO customer from point of sale through to end of contract. This will be made explicitly clear to all businesses who sign up to this tariff.

SUMMER 2015 Outlook

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Community Development Officer Lydnsey Marie Houghton, right, gives Natalie Alves the latest information on housing services,watched by 11-month-old Amelia.

Welcome to The Hub Angela Elkins of Essex Savers, left, talks to Westcliff resident Jackie Alves in The Hub.

OF THE COMMUNITY R

Director of Cultural Engine Giles Tofield helps resident Paul Melnick use computer terminals in the hi-tech service hub.

ESIDENTS can now access confidential advice and support in the community, thanks to the opening of The Hub in the Victoria Shopping Centre. The Council and voluntary sector teamed up to transform a first floor store with help from a number of partners including South Essex Homes, the CAB, Essex Savers and local social enterprise the Cultural Engine. The welcoming facility is open from 10am to 4.30pm every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. On Tuesdays A ‘Digital Housing Hub’ gives people access to computers and the internet where they can register to vote, write a CV and search for jobs with

support from volunteers. On Wednesdays, staff from Essex Savers can advise on personal finance, money problems, loans and savings, and on Thursdays, staff from the Citizens Advice Bureau are available to help with benefits and understanding Universal Credit. South Essex Homes resident Natalie Alves, who visited The Hub, said: “The Hub seems like a really good idea to offer and advice in the centre of Southend as people pass when they are doing their shopping. “I have received on the spot housing advice today from South Essex Homes which has been really helpful.” For further information, please contact 01702 469212.

Joint administration set up to take Council forward CABINET members from four political groups have pledged to work together for the good of Southend-on-Sea after May’s elections. The joint administration was formed by the Independent Group, Labour Group, Liberal Democrat Group and the new Southend Independence Group. The administration is made up as follows:

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• Councillor Ron Woodley (Ind): Leader • Councillor Graham Longley (Lib Dem): Deputy Leader and Executive Councillor for Enterprise, Tourism and Economic • Councillor Ian Gilbert (Lab): Deputy Leader and Executive Councillor for Community and Organisational Development

• Councillor David Norman (Lab): Housing, Planning and Regulatory Control Development • Councillor Martin Terry (Ind): Public Protection, Waste and Transport. • Councillor Anne Jones (Lab): Children and Learning • Councillor James Moyies (SIG): Health and Social Care.

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Council tenants enjoy

GREAT NEW HOME A

NOTHER 18 new council properties are being built in Southend with work due to start by the end of the summer. The 12 three-bedroomed houses, one two bedroomed house and five two-bedroomed flats – two of which will be adapted for disabled use – are to be constructed on six under-used garage sites in Ashanti Close, Exeter Close and Bulwark Road in Shoeburyness. They have been designed by Essex-based architects AK Design. The affordable houses will be fitted with solar thermal panels and the flats will have photovoltaic panels to produce at least 10 per cent renewable energy. They are being

built after Southend-on-Sea Borough Council commissioned a feasibility study to assess the development potential of land it owns. Being funded by the Council’s Housing Revenue Account and Right-to-Buy receipts, the properties will be available for rent. The Lessard-Fowler family are the first tenants to move in to Byron Avenue – dad Darren, mum Carine and their children Alexander, 11, and Kyle, aged 7, who has cerebral palsy and is in a wheelchair. Carine said: “It’s lovely and very homely.

“It felt like home as soon as we walked in so that was a good sign. We were in private rented accommodation before, but this really meets our needs. “It’s great for Kyle because doorways have been widened for wheelchair access everywhere and a wetroom is being installed.” When completed, the latest properties will be advertised on the Council’s choice based lettings site www.southend-on-the-move.org.uk for eligible applicants to bid on. Welcome home... new tenants Darren Lessard-Fowler and wife Carine, centre, with Tenancy Services Officer Rianne Lowe.

Win tickets to performance by candlelight THE Four Seasons by Candlelight tour – at The Cliffs Pavillion on Sunday 6 December – presents a fantastic programme of 18th Century classics performed in an evocative candle-lit style setting with the Mozart Festival Orchestra resplendent in full orchestral costume of the period. The concert with the Mozart Festival Orchestra, David Juritz – conductor/violin, Caroline MacPhie – soprano and Crispian Steele-Perkins – trumpet, will be held at Southend Cliffs Pavilion at 3pm on Sunday 6 December. For further information see www.raymondgubbay.co.uk or call the box office on 01702 351135. For the chance of winning one of three pairs of tickets we have to this magnificent concert, just tell us in which country was Vivaldi born: a) Belgium; b) Italy; c) Poland. Send your answers on a postcard to Vivaldi Competition, Information and Communications, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, SS2 6ER, or email outlook@southend.gov.uk – the closing date is August 31. We would also like to hear any comments you have about Outlook magazine and to find out where you picked up your copy.

August Bank Holiday 2015

Collection Dates Normal collection day

Revised collection day

Days late

Monday 31st August

Tuesday 1st September

1 day late

Tuesday 1st September

Wednesday 2nd September

1 day late

Wednesday 2nd September

Thursday 3rd September

1 day late

August Bank Holiday

Thursday 3rd September

Friday 4th September

1 day late

Friday 4th September

Saturday 5th September

1 day late

For more information call 01702 215006 or visit www.southend.gov.uk/recycling Apply for it – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

SUMMER 2015 Outlook

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Social media a great way to interact ESSEX Police have been engaging with shoppers across the county recently to encourage them to interact with the force’s social media channels and help share appeals and solve crimes. The Follow, Like, Share, Help campaign saw officers and media staff highlighting the benefits of engaging with Essex police on the social media platforms as well as offering advice on keeping safe online. More than 200,000 social media users already follow Essex Police, and this latest campaign is designed to increase that number and encourage more people to help keep the county safe. Essex Police use twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube to tell the public about the work of officers in Southend and throughout Essex in solving and reducing crime, but the channels are also a way of asking for help in looking for vulnerable missing people, passing on information about crimes you may have witnessed, identifying suspected criminals caught on camera and telling us about the whereabouts of wanted people. ● For more information, visit www.essex.police.uk/ socialmedia

Have you got what it takes to be a Special? ESSEX Police is currently recruiting for the Special Constabulary at Essex Police. Specials are people who give up their free time to work with the police to improve the communities in which they live and work. Specials have full police powers, uniforms and equipment.

Hi-tech system delivers LATEST NEWS ON CRIME ESSEX Community Messaging (ECM) has been launched to give residents in Essex a chance to receive up to date information on crime incidents and crime prevention advice via email, text or voice message. This information comes directly from Essex Police officers, Essex Watch liaison officers and other partners including Neighbourhood Watch. Free of charge and specifically designed for Essex, the messaging system is jointly funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner, and money seized from criminals under the

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Many organise their busy personal lives, day jobs and other commitments around police duties. If you can commit to a minimum of 16 hours a month and are interested in joining the Special Constabulary please visit our website at www.essex.police.uk/specials

Proceeds of Crime Act. ECM gives the public the option to select the information they want to receive, including issues they may have a particular interest in. This is used to make residents aware of crime trends where they live, advice on issues happening in their area, and encouraging them and their neighbours to report suspicious activity to police. Nick Alston, Police and Crime

Commissioner for Essex, said: “Essex Community Messaging will get key crime and crime prevention information out to communities faster than ever before. “It will also improve the two-way flow of information about community safety between Essex Police, Neighbourhood and other Watch groups, and the people of Essex. We need to help communities join Essex Police in the fight against crime. “Whether it’s through reporting suspicious behaviour or learning about simple measures to take to prevent crime, ECM will provide a crucial new channel for keeping our communities safe. I urge everyone to register now for ECM.” ● Residents can sign up to ECM by visiting the website at www.essexcommunitymessaging .org

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HEALTHY LIVING ROADSHOW: Interim Cardiovascular Disease Commissioning Manager Alison Springett takes print manager Rob Davies’s blood pressure during his health check.

ANUAL workers in Southend are being targetted for free NHS Health checks this summer now a mobile unit is visiting industrial parks. An outreach team from Essex-based Anglian Community Enterprise (ACE) is offering the five-year check up to eligible people aged 40 to 74 as part of a public health programme to prevent heart disease, stroke, diabetes, kidney disease and certain types of dementia. ACE has already carried out more than 450 tests since being commissioned by the Council to provide 4,500 checks over three years. It uses a specially adapated van and a static trailer with three consulting rooms. Alison Springett, the Council’s interim CVD Commissioning Manager Public Health, said: “Whilst everyone can have a check at their GP practice, the Public Health team recognises that not everyone can take time off work to visit the doctor even when they’ve been invited along. “So we’ve asked ACE to take their mobile vehicle directly to people's workplaces in Southend and Shoeburyness to make the test far more accessible. “By going out into the community, we’re hoping far more people will take up the offer and come along. “The test takes just 20 minutes and is really easy to pre-book.”

New contract to save £4m and boost leisure offer

Health just the job in

CHECKS AT WORK To find out where the outreach team will be and to find out if you are eligible to book an appointment, telephone ACE on 01206 288538 or email healthchecks@nhs.net. Local employers can also book a visit by emailing nhshealthcheck@southend.gov.uk

Five top tips to reduce stress and lead a more contented life... RESIDENTS are being offered five tips to help them beat stress and anxiety as they are urged not to neglect their own mental wellbeing. Spending time to connect and build relationships with family, friends and colleagues is key. Being active is also important – it does not have to be the gym just an enjoyable physical pastime like walking is enough. Learning a new skill like

Apply for it – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

cooking or a musical instrument breeds confidence which always helps and giving to others, whether it is a small act of kindness like a smile or a much bigger commitment such as volunteering, helps build new social networks. Being mindful and more aware of the present moment including feelings and thoughts is the fifth technique people can use to positively change how they feel about life.

NEW arangements to run leisure centres in the Borough will save the Council up to £4 million and offer a more varied range of services. The centres will be run by Fusion Lifestyle: a charity that operates 85 facilities nationally including in Rochford and Braintree. Fusion will offer more outdoor activities in the summer, healthier lifestyle promotion, discounts on certain activities through the Council’s Advantage Card, a new ‘Tennis in the Parks’ scheme at Priory and Chalkwell Parks and an extension of a successful diving programme in partnership with the Amateur Swimming Association. Under the contract, Fusion Lifestyle will pay the Council for the use of its facilities, generating a new revenue stream, meaning the service no longer needs a Council Tax-funded subsidy. This will result in a budget saving of over £4 million in ten years. It includes: ■ Belfairs Swim Centre (BSC) – Dual Use Site with School ■ Chase Sports & Fitness Centre (CSFC) – Dual Use Site with School ■ Shoeburyness Leisure Centre (SLC) – Dual Use Site with School ■ Southend Swimming & Diving Centre (SSDC) @ Southend Leisure & Tennis Centre (SLTC) Nick Harris, Head of Culture, said:“By making leisure services self-sufficient, we can ensure the future of this important and popular service but also better protect other much-valued front-line council services at a time of austerity. “Officers have done a marvellous job to take this contract to the market and achieve such a great result.”

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Older people prioritised in £12m health service plan PRIORITY support services for Southend's older people have been outlined in a three-year strategy as part of a £12 million plan to transform the lives of residents. The Council and the NHS have created a jointly-managed Better Care Fund part of which will be used for the health and social care support agreed in their Older People Strategy. It pledges to provide better health services and work closely in partnership to help older people stay healthier for longer while also supporting them to decide how to manage their own care. Residents helped draw up the strategy and joined the Working Together for a Healthy Southend event in May. Jacqui Lansley, Joint Associate Director of Integrated Care Commissioning for the Council and NHS, said: “Along with our partners, we have set ourselves the significant challenge to make Southend the healthiest town in England by 2020. “This is based on an agreed commitment to a programme which at its heart, has a strong alliance to deliver a step change in health and social care.”

Closer working will improve care outcomes HEALTH experts at the Council and NHS are working more closely together to make sure services in the Borough have the required outcomes. Teams which identify and authorise the care people need have formed a new Integrated Care Commissioning Team. They focus on improving services for older people, mental health and disability as well as children, young people and maternity services. The new team of clinical and social care leads is being led by Joint Associate Director Jacqui Lansley. She said:“This exciting joint venture formally sees the commissioning function of both organisations come together to realise the ambition of a truly integrated commissioning approach across community health and social care.”

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An ambitious goal has been set to make Southend the UK’s healthiest town by 2020 – here Outlook reports on work behind the scenes to provide the set-up to hit the target... Doctor Sharon Hadley has welcomed a new system which shares information between health and social care professionals.

UK-first system a healthy change

ANY Southend residents with both health and social care needs are set to benefit from a new way of working, with health and social care information being shared in what is a UK-first. Records can now be uploaded to a secure system. GPs will be able to see patient identifiable information while social care professionals will only be able to see high-level data. It will mean patients telling their story just once and then receiving co-ordinated and integrated care with all agencies involved working closely together. Health information that will be shared includes the number of appointments a patient has had with a GP or practice nurse, information about medications they have been prescribed and their long term conditions or any other condition which requires long term management as well as the number of unplanned and avoidable hospital admissions. Social care information being shared ranges from care services

being delivered, age gender, postcode, NHS Number and the type of service received along with provider details. Southend is the first area of the UK to share identifiable patient records in this way. It’s a move supported by the Health Secretary and fully backed by Doctor Sharon Hadley, a GP at St. Luke’s Health Centre in Pantile Avenue. She said: “We’ll have a better understanding of peoples’ needs so all in all I think it’s a really good idea. It’ll mean better standards of care for patients and we won’t be wasting money.” Carol Cranfield, Principal Social Worker at Southend-on-Sea Borough Council said: “I know how much better it would be if our social workers could share

information with an individual’s GP. We could plan care jointly and deliver a single package of care rather than delivering multiple health and social care services separately.” Information uploaded from GP practices to a secure NHS-approved third party system will help people who arrange services plan across the borough. It excludes those with mental health issues or learning difficulties, children and any sexual health data. Patient data will be shared unless a patient wants to opt out by telling their GP. They can also opt back in at a later date. Patients can ask their GP for more information or look on the Council and CCG websites.

New wesbite helps with impact of Care Act SOUTHEND-on-Sea Borough Council has developed the Southend Health and Wellbeing Information point website, (SHIP) to help local people find out more about the recently introduced Care Act and how these changes will affect you. It includes a directory of the services available that can provide help, support and advice locally, and a register of organisations and individuals that can provide services in your own home. The new Care Act was introduced to make the care and support system more consistent and understandable.

‘Care and support’ describes help including washing, dressing, eating, reading mail, getting out and about and keeping in touch with friends or family. Carers are now also entitled to have needs assessed which arise from their caring responsibilities. The Council will also be organising targeted information events throughout the next few months, at which we will explain the changes further. To find out more call 01702 215008 or visit www.southendinfopoint.org for more information and to get advice about your circumstances.

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Household electoral registration process now underway in Borough LOCAL residents are being reminded that this year’s household registration process is now underway and are being encouraged to respond to forms currently being delivered across the Borough. Under the new system of Individual Electoral Registration (IER), residents are required to return and complete a household enquiry form. Residents are advised to carefully follow the instructions and respond appropriately. Although it is not a registration form, it confirms who is living at that address and who is entitled to be registered to vote. Once returned, the Council will invite any new residents to register by sending them an individual registration form. Being registered to vote makes you eligible to vote at relevant elections and can also improve your credit rating. Visit www.southend.gov.uk /elections for more details or call 01702 215010.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF... C

ARLOS Codinha is a Street Engagement Worker for Southend Youth Offending Service. His past experience working with street gangs in Mexico and United States makes him perfect for his current post. Based within the Integrated Youth Support Service (IYSS), 11am – The start of another busy Friday. I go to the office to check my emails for any new intelligence reports of ASB and to ensure no-one we work with has been arrested. 11.30am – Off to visit some of the students who I supervise in schools. I liaise with the teachers and the young people to check all is okay. 1pm – I meet with my colleague and we drive to a school where classes are leaving the premises at lunch times and we talk to students about any issues with their behaviour.

his job involves engaging with young people on the street, working with police and other agencies to identify antisocial behaviour (ASB) and promoting positive activities to divert young people away from such behaviour. Here he tells Outlook of a typical day:

On the way back to the office we grab a quick coffee. 2.30pm – Off out in the van again to complete afterschool patrols where we ensure there are no problems on the way out from school. 3.30pm – After the schools have emptied, we park the bus at Bournes Green Park, get out our mobile football goal posts and engage with our regular group of local football fans. Today we had 25 of them turn up for a chaotic but fun game of football. This is a rewarding session as

lots of the parents in the local community bring their children for a game of football and sit by the sidelines to cheer them along. 5pm – Back to the office again with a quick sandwich to pick up on any email and returned missed calls. 6pm – Meet up with police, have a briefing with my colleagues to identify where local ASB has been reported and begin patrolling those places until 9pm. On specific days I participate on operation Red Bull where we patrol the high street, parks and other ASB hot spots until midnight.

Street Engagement Worker Carlos Codinha talks to young men about positive activities they can join.

Progress made on Victoria Avenue eyesores SOUTHEND-on-Sea based developer Randall Watts has been announced as the company that will drive forward the regeneration of two derelict buildings that have blighted Victoria Avenue for years. Council persistence and the threat of compulsory purchase has paid off, with the sale of both Heath and Carby House. Randall Watts, who recently completed the renovation of Harwand House on London Road and are currently re-developing the Courtway House site in Hamlet Court Road, have been revealed as the developer for the long awaited

scheme. Alan Richards, from Asset Management, said: “We are delighted that a developer that is both local and with a proven calibre has been announced, and that this has come forwards without the need for direct Council intervention or public money. “We look forward to working with Randall Watts to provide this much needed new housing and transform this key gateway to the town. “The Council made a clear promise to local people to tackle the blight of Victoria Avenue and these two eyesore buildings.

Pay it – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

“We put considerable pressure on the owners to either make progress on a scheme or face a potential compulsory purchase order and this approach has proved to be successful.” The Council had been demanding action for a number of years and in November 2014 agreed to prepare the case for using compulsory purchase powers as a last resort if development of the site was not forthcoming. Following this, the owner marketed the properties on the basis of the existing planning permission which has now led to the sale and announcement.

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Sacred Hearts pupil Mercy reads a book and enjoys the wildlife in Gunners Park.

John Habgood, 74 walks his dog Danny around Shoeburyness Park.

Tasty tips to make safe BBQ cooking A barbecue should be fun and safe. To avoid injury or food poisoning follow these simple rules: ■ Keep the barbecue away from trees, sheds and shrubs. ■ Keep children and pets away. ■ Have sand or water on hand in case of emergencies. ■ Use fire lighters and never use petrol. ■ Ensure the barbecue is cool before moving and never put hot ashes into a bin. ■ Always turn the gas tap off on a gas barbecue when finished. ■ To avoid food poisoning, always defrost meat. ■ Check meat is properly cooked by seeing if juices run clear. ■ Keep raw and cooked food apart. ■ Wash hands regularly.

Five great days out Churchill Gardens – the two acre garden with its ornamental planting, stream and waterfall is a haven of peace and tranquility. Two Tree Island Nature Reserve – 640 acres of grassland, reedbed and lagoons which supports a wide variety of birds including avocets. Gunners Park, Shoeburyness – a nature reserve incorporating an old military ranges site of Special Scientific Interest (SSI). Southchurch Hall – a stunning, moated medieval manor house with walled gardens. Priory Park – the walled garden in one of Southend’s largest parks is little known but impressive.

Stay cool in the sun OVER-exposure to sunshine is never a good idea – especially between 11am and 3pm – so cover up in the heat: ■ Apply high factor sunscreen, re-applying every two hours and after swimming. ■ Keep to the shade. ■ Wear a hat and sunglasses. ■ Stay hydrated by having plenty to drink. ■ Avoid extreme physical exertion. ■ Ensure babies, children, the elderly and pets are not left alone in cars. ■ Take extra care if you have fair skin, freckle easily or have suffered sunburn before.

12 Outlook SUMMER 2015

Hasma Begum, 19, takes a stroll on the world famous Southend Pier.

Max and Darcey run on the beach in Shoeburyness.

Quality awards make Borough a

TOP FLIGHT ATTRACTION S

OUTHEND really is flying the flag for fun this summer with its award winning parks, beaches and vibrant night life. All of the Borough’s beaches along seven miles of coast line have just been awarded the Keep Britain Tidy Seaside Award, showing the resort has one of the cleanest stretches of seaside in the UK. Lynn Jones, Resort Services Manager, said: “We are delighted to have picked up seven seaside awards which reflect the quality, management, cleanliness and safety of our beaches.” Away from the sand, seafront attractions include the recordbreaking pier, Adventure Island, the Sea-life Adventure Aquarium and the Marine Activity Centre on Eastern Esplanade. Inland, the 15 parks, gardens and nature reserves, some of them Green Flag winners, provide space to de-stress and enjoy a picnic or a walk. For a trip back in time there is the Central Museum, Southchurch Hall, Prittlewell Priory and Southend Locals Pier Museum while the Beecroft Jeanette and Art Gallery and Focal Point Peter Lewis take Gallery are a must for culture in the air on the vultures. seafront.

Fantastic shopping facilities and restaurants make it a pleasure to spend and eat and Southend really does come to life at night with its offer of live music, theatres, restaurants, a comedy club, wine bars and pubs – all Purple Flag accredited to show how safe and well-managed it is.

Ella, 4, and Alba Lucas, 2, with their mum Tanya Lucas enjoying the seafront play area.

John Masheter, of Rayleigh, relaxes during his lunch break in Prittlewell Square.

Southend residents Jordan Kennedy, 21 and Tara Kelly, 26 take a break on Three Shells beach.

Save time – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

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Sacred Hearts pupil Mercy reads a book and enjoys the wildlife in Gunners Park.

John Habgood, 74 walks his dog Danny around Shoeburyness Park.

12 Outlook SUMMER 2015

Hasma Begum, 19, takes a stroll on the world famous Southend Pier.

Max and Darcey run on the beach in Shoeburyness.

Quality awards make Borough a

TOP FLIGHT ATTRACTION S

Ella, 4, and Alba Lucas, 2, with their mum Tanya Lucas enjoying the seafront play area.

John Masheter, of Rayleigh, relaxes during his lunch break in Prittlewell Square.

Southend residents Jordan Kennedy, 21 and Tara Kelly, 26 take a break on Three Shells beach.

Save time – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

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Driver Operator Adrian Murphy in one of the new liveried Veolia trucks.

Tia Sabainda, Ruby Looker and Alina Karaj, at the Centre Place Family Centre.

Families at heart of new plan to give a Better Start PLANS to dramatically improve the life chances of children in the Borough are gathering pace as Southend’s ‘Fulfilling Lives – A Better Start’ initiative gets up and running. The project – which has secured £40 million of Big Lottery Funding and is aimed at families with young children – will see a wide range of activities and services designed to ensure opportunities for personal, social and emotional development, communication, health and nutrition over the next 10 years and beyond. Two pilot projects – a language development scheme to help boost children’s communication skills; and an initiative to give local parents an opportunity to be more involved in delivering programmes and helping shape what new services could be delivered – are already operating. John Lambert, Pre School Learning Alliance’s Director of Better Start, said:“This is not just about projects. It is about changing the way we do things so that families feel they are right at the heart of service delivery; and it’s about ensuring that they can access the right help at the right time.” Mr Lambert added that more initiatives under the Better Start banner were in the pipeline and would be announced shortly.

14 Outlook SUMMER 2015

New deal boosts service AND SAVES £20MILLION E

NHANCED waste, recycling and street cleansing services are coming to Southend now the Borough has a new contractor after signing a deal which will save the authority £20 million. Veolia, the UK’s leading environmental service solutions provider, has agreed a 15 and a half year contract which starts on October 5. With a break clause after eight years, the contract delivers significant savings while also offering an expanded and improved service. Staff from existing contractor Cory Environmental will transfer to Veolia in a move which protects local employment. Imran Kazalbash, from Waste Management, said: “The importance of providing more for less cannot be underestimated in today’s financial climate so I am extremely pleased to be welcoming Veolia on board. Estelle Brachlianoff, Veolia’s Senior Executive Vice

President UK and Ireland, said: “We’re looking forward to working in partnership with Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, backing the Borough by investing £17 million over the course of the contract and delivering increased recycling rates, high-quality services for residents and contributing to a better Southend.” The new contract, awarded after a thorough procurement exercise, means Veolia will deliver waste and recycling collection services, operate household waste recycling centres, and clean streets, beaches, gullies and public toilets. It will also provide winter maintenance, graffiti removal services as well as weed spraying and removal. Veolia will also build and operate a waste transfer station and provide commercial waste services.

Junction works pave the way for economic growth WORK could start later this year on a new pedestrian crossing at the A127 Kent Elms Junction. This will help people with restricted mobility to access vital health services, the library and local schools. The Council’s cabinet has approved proposals to build a new traffic signal controlled pedestrian crossing at the A127

and A1015 Kent Elms Junction in advance of a major highways upgrade. It would mean improving the junction and removing the footbridge, currently scheduled to commence by autumn 2016. Paul Mathieson, from the Strategic Transport and Planning Policy Team, said:“Our plans for Kent Elms are just one part of a

package of junction improvements along the A127 designed to keep traffic flowing, improve crossings and keep the economy growing. “Finishing touches to the Tesco roundabout. This will increase the capacity before plans to generate around 7,000 new jobs at two new business parks near the airport come to fruition.”

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Safety drive encourages pupils to get ‘on your bike’

Bikeability Instructor Josie Cobb shows cyclist Tyrone some local history in Gunners Park as part of a guided bike safari.

SCHOOLS across Southend are being asked to help make roads less congested and safer for children who want to walk or cycle. It comes as the Borough’s Cycling in the Curriculum project encourages more youngsters to cycle to school. Children receive Bikeability training to keep them safe on the road and are taught how to maintain their bikes. The importance of helmets and high visibility clothing is also stressed. Collette Kemp, from the Sustainable Transport Team, said:“For many of our young trainees, it is their first experience of cycling on the road. It is important they learn this life skill because it also helps them understand the rules of the road and other road safety skills. Building on the good work we have been doing with our Bikeability training, we would like to encourage parents that have to travel by car to aim to leave earlier and park away from school. “Children arriving at school after some exercise are more alert and ready to learn. Fewer cars nearby also means it is safer and easier for those walking and cycling.” ■ To find the school travel action plan template, walking maps, advice on pedestrian training and information on safe cycling, visit www.ideasinmotionsouthend.co.uk

Sacred Hearts pupils Roberto and Mariana take time out from a cycle trek walking their bikes down the beachfront.

Carer Jo keeps fostering in

Foster carer Jo Westgate with pony Breeze... another important member of the family.

THE FAMILY F

OSTER caring is in horse lover Jo Westlake’s blood… her mum Jean has fostered hundreds of children over the years so she grew up with an extended family in her home. A one-time national show jumping champion, single-mum Jo became a carer herself about three and a half years ago and now looks after children aged three to 17 on a respite and short term basis at her home. Jo, aged 40, said: “My mum looked after hundreds of children over the years so I was used to it. When I decided it was something I wanted to do I made sure my own daughter Danielle was happy. She thought it was a great idea and felt she could help. “It did feel awkward at first but we soon settled down. Now the children we look after ask to come back for respite stays because they enjoy our outdoors lifestyle. “We have 10 acres at the stables

where I keep my thoroughbred Sky. We also have two ponies, Breeze and Tilly, for the children. My foster children love the feeling of space. “It’s a great feeling being able to offer a normal life to a child who has experienced a difficult upbringing. It’s nice knowing that we’re making a difference so I’d encourage anyone to give it a go.” Foster carers can come from any race, religion, gender or class. Able-bodied or disabled, they can be married, single, gay, employed or unemployed. There is no legal minimum age to becoming a foster carer although there is an expectation that foster carers will have sufficient life experience to enable them to meet the needs of children placed with them and age can be a factor in this. There is also no official upper age limit on foster care and many older people make excellent carers. They bring a wealth of skills and experience to the task and many

Tell us – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

young people find it easier to relate to an older person. All that is required at the initial interest stage is that people have at least one bedroom available for fostering and that their immediate family are on board with the possibility of becoming a foster family.

To find out more about fostering, call 01702 212938, email fostering@southend. gov.uk or visit www.southend. gov.uk/fostering

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Do you have a child in year 5? Thinking about the transfer to secondary school? Then read further... What you need to do: • Visit information events or open days with your child at as many secondary schools as possible. Look out for adverts in the local press or look on the schools’ websites. • Access the Secondary Admission Booklet on the website www.southend.gov.uk/admissions or request a hard copy from the School Admissions Team at Southend-on-Sea Borough Council. All relevant information and registration dates are available in the booklet. • Submit an application to the Council expressing your preferences. The admission round is between 1st September and 31st October 2015. Applications can be made online or in hard copy and are coordinated by Southend-on-Sea Borough Council. • Look out for your offer on the National Offer Day: 1st March 2016. • Respond to your offer. Reminder: Further details and an admission booklet are available from the first week in July 2015 in hard copy and on www.southend.gov.uk/admissions

If you have a child born between 1st September 2011 and 31st August 2012 he or she is due to start school in September 2016 What you need to do: • Visit information events or open days with your child at as many primary schools as possible. Look out for adverts in the local press or look on the schools’ websites. • Access the Primary Admission Booklet on the website www.southend.gov.uk/admissions (available after 14th September) or request a hard copy from the School Admissions Team at the Council. All relevant information is available in the booklet and on the website. A look up table using your postcode or address details is available on the website for searching your catchment school. • Submit an application to the Council expressing your preferences. The admission round is between 14th September 2015 and 15th January 2016. Applications can be made online or in hard copy and are coordinated by Southend-on-Sea Borough Council. • Look out for your offer on the National Offer Day: 18th April 2016. • Respond to your offer. Paper copies of the admission booklets can be requested by contacting the Customer Service Centre: tel: 01702 215 000 email: admissions@southend.gov.uk Southend-on-Sea Borough Council Department for People, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea SS2 6ER.

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STATEMENT IN STYLE... The Forum at night.

Cash pot will fund Borough improvements MONEY paid by developers in the Borough will be used to fund important community benefits. It will pay for new or safer road schemes, flood defences, schools, hospitals and other health and social care facilities, park improvements, green spaces and leisure centres. Residential development will incur a levy of between £20 to £60 per square metre. The Council has powers to ensure that relevant developments contribute. Charities and predominantly public-funded organisations are exempt. For more information go to: www.southend.gov.uk/cil

New law will protect tenants TENANTS of private landlords are being offered more protection from eviction under new laws due to come into force in October. It means landlords cannot evict someone for making a complaint about defects or the condition of a property where a Category 1 (serious) hazard is present and the Council has served an Improvement Notice on the landlord or person in control. Shelter has provided helpful letter templates if you need to write to your landlord, which can be found at www.southend.gov.uk/shelter templates. If complaints to the landlord or agent of privately rented properties do not gain the necessary action tenants can complain to the Council’s Private Sector Housing Team. on 01702 215002.

Time to choose PARENTS and carers of Year 5 primary children are being urged to start thinking about the process of securing secondary school places. They need to submit their completed application form to Southend-on-Sea Borough Council between 1 September and 31 October 2015. The Council’s Schools Admissions Team has produced a Secondary Admission Booklet which can be accessed online at www.southend.gov.uk/ admissions (see ad on p16).

Forum success in line for TOP UK DESIGN AWARD L ANDMARK Southend arts, knowledge and cultural venue The Forum Southend-on-Sea has scooped a top accolade and is now in the running for a national award. It was named the East of England’s Best Project in the Community Benefit category at the latest Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) regional awards. The £27 million library and academic centre based in Elmer Square was built thanks to a unique partnership involving Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, the University of Essex and South Essex College. In a joint statement, the partners said: “We are delighted that this ground-breaking project has been recognised so highly by such a renowned national

organisation and we feel the award is well deserved. The Forum Southend-on-Sea daily demonstrates how it is a jewel in the crown of Southend’s regeneration. “Located in the town centre on the site of a former multi-storey car park, this thriving joint public and academic library and learning hub serves the whole community including residents of all ages, visitors and students. “Together they are able to gain the benefits of all the enhanced and additional facilities yielded by the combined resources of the three institutions.” Stephen Boniface, who chaired the RICS awards judging panel, said: “The quality of the entries this year has been outstanding, providing the judges with a wonderful selection of projects across the different categories.”

Events at The Forum Southend-on-Sea and Focal Point Gallery ■ 21 July to 19 Sept

■ Wed 26 Aug-Wed 2 Sept 2

‘THE BEAR PIT’

BI PLANE IN SHARED SPACE/GALLERY

‘The Bear Pit' is a purpose-built space designed by Focal Point Gallery and curated by Grand Union, Birmingham, Outpost, Norwich and Mexico, Leeds.

■ Wed 16 Sept-Tue 6 Oct

■ 21 July to 19 Sept

'GRAPHICS INTERCHANGE FORMAT’: 25 YEARS OF FOCAL POINT GALLERY As part of Focal Point Gallery’s 25th Anniversary, FPG has invited every artist who has exhibited at the gallery over its 25 year history,to produce one or more animated GIFs for the multi-screen exhibition in FPG's Gallery 2. ■ Wed 5 Aug-Tue 25 Aug

STEFANIA WOZNAROWYCZ MALUF Photography Exhibition. ■ Wed 12 Aug-Tue

25 Aug

ATD FOURTH WORLD UK “The Roles We Play”Photography/Multi-media Exhibition regarding poverty – Details to follow.

View it – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

A Bi Plane will be in the Shared Space against the Straight Gallery Wall.

LUKE MAIR’S PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE LONDON SHIPWRECK PROJECT Having exhibited at the Beecroft earlier in the year, the exhibition moves to the Forum. ■ Tue 22 Sept

ROYAL OPERA HOUSE BP BIG SCREEN: ROMEO & JULIET 7.30pm Kenneth MacMillan’s ballet of Shakespeare’s starcrossed lovers is a classic of 20th-century ballet, and a heartbreaking match for Prokofiev’s score.

Operations Manager for the Focal Point Gallery Riah Pryor. ■ Sat 7 Nov-Fri 27 Nov

IMAGINATION ARTWORK

Artwork created by participants of ImagiNation. To find out more visit The Forum website www.theforumsouthend.co.uk

■ Sat 7 Nov

SOUTHEND ON THE MAP 10.30am-3pm Explore a timeline of maps and images tracing the development of Southend over the centuries, from fishing village to a thriving centre of coastal tourism.

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To find out which Ward you are in please visit www.southend.gov.uk/whereilive

The Council has 51 Councillors elected to represent you. There are 17 wards, each with three elected members. See the map to find out which councillors represent you.

Your Councillors BELFAIRS WARD

BLENHEIM PARK

Cllr Stephen Aylen (Ind)

Cllr Maureen Butler (Con) Cllr Lesley Salter (Con)

Cllr James Courtenay (Con) Cllr Graham Longley (LD)

Cllr Floyd Waterworth (UKIP)

16 Woodside, Belfairs, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 4QU Tel: 01702 527747 cllraylen@southend.gov.uk

33 The Fairway, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 4QN Tel: 01702 212867 cllrbutler@southend.gov.uk

24 Surbiton Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS2 4NS Tel: 01702 611669 cllrcourtenay@southend.gov.uk

50a Eastwood Rise, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 5BT Tel: 01702 212892 cllrwaterworth@southend.gov.uk

4 Chadwick Road, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 8LS Tel: 01702 432364 cllrsalter@southend.gov.uk

CHALKWELL WARD

28 McDivitt Walk, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 5UD Tel: 01702 520234 cllrlongley@southend.gov.uk

EASTWOOD PARK WARD

Cllr Nigel Folkard (Con)

Cllr Stephen Habermel (Con) Cllr Ian Robertson (Con)

Cllr Trevor Byford (Con)

Cllr Andrew Moring (Con) Cllr Chris Walker (Con)

25 Hayes Barton, Southend -on-Sea SS1 3TS Tel: 01702 582828 cllrfolkard@southend.gov.uk

6 Leas Gardens, Southend-on-Sea SS0 8JL Tel: 01702 478354 cllrhabermel@southend.gov.uk

2 Badgers Close, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 0AP Tel: 01702 437274 cllrbyford@southend.gov.uk

554 Woodgrange Drive, Southend-on-Sea SS1 3EL Tel: 01702 585957 cllrmoring@southend.gov.uk

68 Thorpe Hall Avenue, Thorpe Bay SS1 3AU Tel: 01702 584580 cllritrobertson@southend.gov.uk

KURSAAL WARD

256 Rayleigh Road, Eastwood SS9 5XL Tel: 01702 528027 cllrwalker@southend.gov.uk

LEIGH WARD

Cllr Lawrence Davies (SIG) Cllr Anne Jones (Lab)

Cllr Judy McMahon (Lab)

Cllr Bernard Arscott (Con) Cllr Alan Crystall (LD)

Cllr Carole Mulroney (LD)

13 Beresford Road, Southend-on-Sea SS1 2TW Tel: 01702 212889 cllrdavies@southend.gov.uk

37A Pleasant Road, Southend-on-Sea SS1 2HQ Tel: 01702 462489 cllrmcmahon@southend.gov.uk

40 Glenbervie Drive, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 3JT Tel: 07771 344191 cllrarscott@southend.gov.uk

83 Southsea Avenue, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 2BH Tel: 01702 212890 cllrmulroney@southend.gov.uk

2 Hastings Road, Southend-on-Sea SS1 2DR Tel: 01702 460952 cllrannejones@southend.gov.uk

MILTON WARD

16 Cliff Parade, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 1AS Tel: 01702 474047 cllrcrystall@southend.gov.uk

PRITTLEWELL WARD

Cllr Jonathan Garston (Con) Cllr Cheryl Nevin (Lab)

Cllr Julian Ware-Lane (Lab)

Cllr Mary Betson (LD)

Cllr Tino Callaghan (SIG)

Cllr Margaret Davidson (Con)

23a Clifftown Parade, Southend-on-Sea SS1 1DN Tel: 01702 335017 cllrjgarston@southend.gov.uk

37 Nelson Road, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 3HX Tel: 01702 472144 cllrware-lane@southend.gov.uk

11 Byfield, Eastwood SS9 5TG Tel: 01702 212861 cllrbetson@southend.gov.uk

13 Robert Leonard Ind, Stock Rd, Southend-on-Sea SS2 5GD Tel: 07866 888588 cllrcallaghan@southend.gov.uk

47 Priory Avenue, Southend-on-Sea SS2 6LA Tel: 07771 344190 cllrdavidson@southend.gov.uk

143 Flemming Crescent, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 4HT Tel: 01702 212879 cllrnevin@southend.gov.uk

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SHOEBURYNESS WARD

SOUTHCHURCH WARD

Cllr Mike Assenheim (Ind) Cllr Roger Hadley (Con)

Cllr Nick Ward (Ind)

Cllr David Garston (Con)

Cllr Ann Holland (Con)

Cllr Derek Kenyon (Ind)

76 Elm Road, Shoeburyness SS3 9RD Tel: 01702 291720 cllrassenheim@southend.gov.uk

189 Eastern Esplanade, Southend-on-Sea SS1 3AA Tel: 07768 131793 cllrward@southend.gov.uk

237 Maplin Way North, Southend-on-Sea SS1 3NY Tel: 01702 584278 cllrdgarston@southend.gov.uk

7 Silchester Court, Silchester Corner, Gt Wakering SS3 0PX Tel: 01702 580855 cllrholland@southend.gov.uk

25 Ladram Road, Thorpe Bay SS1 3PX Tel: 01702 582017 cllrkenyon@southend.gov.uk

33 Mountbatten Drive, Shoeburyness SS3 8UY Tel: 01702 292490 cllrhadley@southend.gov.uk

ST LAURENCE WARD

ST LUKES WARD

Cllr Steve Buckley (Con)

Cllr Mark Flewitt (Con)

Cllr David McGlone (UKIP)

Cllr Brian Ayling (Ind)

Cllr Caroline Endersby (Ind) Cllr Paul Van Looy (Ind)

11 Borman Close, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 5UJ Tel: 07771 344180 cllrbuckley@southend.gov.uk

11 Borman Close, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 5UJ Tel: 01702 510463 cllrflewitt@southend.gov.uk

534 Prince Avenue, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 0ER Tel: 07787 002649 cllrmcglone@southend.gov.uk

108a Ennismore Gardens, Southend-on-Sea SS2 5RB Tel: 01702 461840 cllrayling@southend.gov.uk

491 Sutton Road, Southend-on-Sea SS2 5PL Tel: 01702 212882 cllrendersby@southend.gov.uk

THORPE WARD

54 Arlington Road, Southend-on-Sea SS2 4UW Tel: 01702 615658 cllrvanlooy@southend.gov.uk

VICTORIA WARD

Cllr Mike Stafford (Ind)

Cllr Martin Terry (Ind)

Cllr Ron Woodley (Ind)

Cllr Margaret Borton (Lab) Cllr Ian Gilbert (Lab)

Cllr David Norman (Lab)

85 Maplin Way, Thorpe Bay, SS1 3NL Tel: 01702 297648 cllrstafford@southend.gov.uk

66 Victoria Road, Southend-on-Sea SS1 2TF Tel: 01702 619655 cllrterry@southend.gov.uk

91 Tyrone Road, Southend-on-Sea SS1 3HD Tel: 01702 588662 cllrwoodley@southend.gov.uk

85 Rochester Drive, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 0NJ Tel: 01702 212862 cllrborton@southend.gov.uk

41 Vernon Road, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 2NG Tel: 01702 212897 cllrdnorman@southend.gov.uk

WEST LEIGH WARD

132 Central Avenue, Southend-on-Sea SS2 4DZ Tel: 01702 339765 cllrgilbert@southend.gov.uk

WEST SHOEBURY WARD

Cllr Fay Evans (Con)

Cllr John Lamb (Con)

Cllr Georgina Phillips (Con)

Cllr Tony Cox (Con)

Cllr Derek Jarvis (Con)

Cllr James Moyies (SIG)

192 Highlands Boulevard, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 3QX Tel: 01702 558657 cllrevans@southend.gov.uk

77 Vardon Drive, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 3SJ Tel: 01702 483908 cllrlamb@southend.gov.uk

63 Marine Parade, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 2NQ Tel: 01702 480634 cllrphillips@southend.gov.uk

Flat D, Mill Lodge, West Road, Shoeburyness SS3 9DP Tel: 01702 298576 cllrcox@southend.gov.uk

Flat 1, Gunnery House, 2 Chapel Road, The Garrison, Shoeburyness SS3 9SL Tel: 01702 292744 cllrjarvis@southend.gov.uk

9 Malsmead, Shoeburyness SS3 8AZ Tel: 01702 212880 cllrmoyies@southend.gov.uk

Southend-on-Sea Borough Council Cabinet

WESTBOROUGH WARD

Cllr Kevin Robinson (Lab) Cllr Dr Vel (Ind)

Cllr Charles Willis (Lab)

93 Brightwell Avenue Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 9EG Tel: 07528 606279 cllrkrobinson@southend.gov.uk

36 Woodcote Road, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 3NP Tel: 07788 993377 cllrwillis@southend.gov.uk

61 Thorpebay Gardens, Thorpe Bay SS1 3NP Tel: 01702 711299 cllrvelmurugan@southend.gov.uk

Tell us – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

■ Ron Woodley (Leader) ■ Ian Gilbert (Deputy Leader and Executive Councillor for Community Development and Organisational Development) ■ Graham Longley (Deputy Leader and Executive Councillor for Enterprise, Tourism and Economic Development) ■ Martin Terry (Public Protection, Waste and Transport) ■ Anne Jones (Children and Learning) ■ David Norman (Housing, Planning and Regulatory Services) ■ James Moyies (Health and Adult Social Care) SUMMER 2015 Outlook

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What’s On Sea CONTACT DETAILS ■ Southend Events www.southend.gov.uk/events www.visitsouthend.co.uk ■ Southend Museums www.southendmuseums.co.uk or call 01702 434449 For Southchurch Hall please call 01702 467671 ■ The Forum Turn to page 17 for a list of events at The Forum. ■ Fri 24 July-Sat 10 Oct

THE 56TH ESSEX OPEN EXHIBITION Beecroft Art Gallery The popular annual selected exhibition is back! Always a fascinating and varied show guaranteed to provoke discussion and debate. ■ Sat 25 July-Sat 7 Nov

THE SPIRIT LAB

Central Museum Intriguing pieces from the Museum’s spirit collection – creatures and organisms beautifully preserved in bottles and jars along with other amazing examples from our natural history collections. Luisa Hagele, Assistant Curator of Archaeology will be giving at talk on 13th August at the Central Museum. ■ Sat 25 July-Sat 26 Sept

SEVEN BRIDES

Beecroft Art Gallery Seven Brides tells the story of seven women and their wedding dresses.With the inclusion of grooms, bridesmaids, pageboys and accessories, this exhibition will take you through bridal fashions from 1916 to present day. ■ Sat 25 July

SMALL WONDER BIG WOW Thorpedene Library, 2pm The Book of World Record Breaking Rhymes. Performance poet Justin Coe is setting off on a one man expedition to discover the world’s biggest wows and smallest wonders. ■ Sun 26 July

SUMMER GUITARS Royal Pavilion, Southend Pier, 12.30pm-3pm Dominic Ashworth (Guitar), Paul Sealey (Guitar), Jonty Fisher (Bass and Vocals) and Heather Simmons (Vocals). Free entry although normal pier admission applies. ■ Every Tue 28 July-Tue 25 Aug

MGM INFLATABLE FUN DAY

Priory Park, Southend-on-Sea, 11am-5pm Inflatable fun for the whole family! ■ Sat 1-Sun 2 Aug

PUPPET FESTIVAL AT SOUTHEND PIER The Royal Pavilion, Southend Pier, 11am-5pm In and around the Royal Pavilion we will have 5 puppeteers, a Punch memorabilia exhibition, face painting and a colouring workshop. Performances take place as the train arrives at the far end from 11 am until 5 pm on both days. Free entry, normal pier admission applies.

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■ Sun 2 Aug

■ Sat 15 Aug

■ Sun 23 Aug & Sun 27 Sep

Southchurch Hall, 11am-3.30pm Southchurch Hall comes alive with the Tudors on this special day. A series of talks throughout the day on subjects ranging from Tudor manners to Tudor beekeeping plus the King himself will be holding court at 1pm!

Southend Town Centre.

Southend Airport, 10am-4pm A series of opportunities to visit one of the most amazing aircrafts – the Vulcan! Cockpit visits subject to availability. Under 16s free, admission £3.50, £3 all additional entrants.

MEET THE TUDORS

MEET THE CARNIVAL COURT ■ Wed 19 Aug

THE TEDDY BEARS’ PICNIC Priory Park, Southend-on-Sea, 11am-4pm Children love the annual teddy bear’s picnic, bringing their favourite bear or cuddly character

■ Sun 2 Aug

Royal Pavilion, Southend Pier, 12.30am-3pm Bruce Adams (Trumpet), Roy Williams (Trombone), Julian Marc Stringle (Sax),Tim Huskisson (Piano), Roger Curfey (Bass) and Marc Cecil (Drums).

Leigh Old Town, 11am-4pm Attractions include: London Wreck Exhibition, Lower Thames Rowing Club’s Pier Race, Kid’s Zone on Strand Wharf, Italia in Piazza food market, ‘End of the Pier’ style show, Scott & Stapleton Maritime Marquee, historic and working vessels plus loads more. Also to add to the community spirit of the festival if any visitors (old or young) wish to come in fancy dress, they are more than welcome to do so. Obviously a maritime or nautical theme is the preferred option. www.leighonseatowncouncil.gov.uk

■ Sun 30 Aug

SOUTHEND ANNUAL BARGE MATCH AT SOUTHEND PIER Southend Pier, 11am Watch sailing barges race from the end of the Pier for trophies. Racing begins at 11am. Normal Pier admission applies or free upon purchase of a barge match programme. Normal Pier admission applies ■ Sun 6 Sep

ACOUSTIC DEREK NASH Royal Pavilion, Southend Pier, 12:30pm-3pm Derek Nash (Sax), Dave Newton (Piano), Geoff Gascoyne (Bass) and Sebastian De Krom (Drums). Free entry although normal pier admission applies. ■ Sun 6 Sept

THE SOUTHEND SUMMERCARE CARNIVAL DOG SHOW

■ Sat 8 Aug

■ Every Sun 9 Aug-

and a picnic to Priory Park.The event takes place before the children’s fancy dress competition in the afternoon, making for a fun-filled day out in the Summer holiday.The games and entertainment are aimed at children aged 3-7 years but anyone can come along and join in the picnic fun as long as they bring a furry friend! £3 per child.

SUNDAY SHOWCASE

■ Wed 19 Aug

(And The Book of World Record Breaking Rhymes) Kent Elms Library, 2pm Performance poet Justin Coe is setting off on a one man expedition to discover the world’s biggest wows and smallest wonders.

Sun 13 Sep

The Royal Pavilion, Southend Pier, 12.30pm-6pm A series of live music acts at the end of Southend’s iconic Pier. Come and listen to some of Southend’s up and coming bands whilst enjoying the fantastic views at the end of the Pier. Free entry, normal pier admission applies. ■ Tue 11 Aug

SMALL WONDER BIG WOW Westcliff Library, 11am & 2pm The Book of World Record Breaking Rhymes. Performance poet Justin Coe is setting off on a one man expedition to discover the world’s biggest wows and smallest wonders. ■ Wed 12 Aug-Thur 13 Aug

TUDOR LIFE Southchurch Hall, 11am-3pm Visit beautiful Southchurch Hall and step back into the time of Henry VIII. Find out what food would have been eaten and how they would have eaten it! Where did they go to the toilet, where did they sleep, did they call themselves Tudor? All these and more questions will be answered in this free drop in workshop.

■ Sun 23 Aug

BRUCE’S JAMBOREE

LEIGH MARITIME FESTIVAL

SMALL WONDER, BIG WOW

VISIT THE VULCAN

SOUTHEND CARNIVAL – FANCY DRESS COMPETITION Priory Park, Southend-on-Sea, 12.30pm Children aged 13 and under can take part in the fancy dress competition, they just need to put a costume together and arrive in Priory Park, next to the cafe to register for the judging to take place at 1.30pm.There are different classes in the competition for the children to enter, which are: Individuals, Pairs, Groups, Child & Guardian, and Decorated Wheeled Entrant.The kids can enter into more than one judging class if they want and each class costs £2 for each child. ■ Sat 22 Aug

SUMMERCARE CARNIVAL PROCESSION Southend Seafront, 7.45pm Attracting around 20,000 people to Southend seafront with over 60 floats and acts, the Southend SummerCare Carnival Procession is one of the largest in the UK.The carnival procession includes colourful floats, exciting acts, dancers, bands, big costumes and much more. Expect flag waving, all kinds of music, bright lights and a great atmosphere within the crowd. Free entry.

Priory Park, 11am The annual Carnival Dog Show, run in conjunction with Southend Canine Society, is a fun day out for dog owners and dogs! Entries to the competition open at 11am in Priory Park and you can enter as many different classes as you wish for £2 per entry for the pedigree classes or £1.50 for the novelty classes. All dogs must be kept on a lead at the event and puppies under six months are not allowed to attend.This event is run as part of The Big Event run by Southend Community-in-Harmony Partnership. ■ Sat 12 Sep

SOUTHEND CHORAL WORKSHOP Southend High School for Girls, 11am-5pm Choral workshop with Bob Chilcott. Free event.To book please phone 01702 215624. ■ Thur 17 Sept

LUNCHTIME CURATOR’S TALK: THE 56TH ESSEX OPEN EXHIBITION Beecroft Art Gallery, 12.30pm-1pm with Kevin Marsh, Assistant Curator of Art. Explore the highlights of this long-running Essex art show. ■ Thur 17 Sept

FOSMS TALK BY DR JUDITH BUNBURY Beecroft Art Gallery, 7pm Talk on the recent Work in the Valley of The Kings ■ Sun 20 Sep

CLASSIC CARS-ON-SEA City Beach, 9am A gleaming collection of up to 20 pre-booked classic vehicles displayed in a designated seafront spot. Free.

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A GUIDE TO KEY SUMMER EVENTS IN SOUTHEND

■ Sun 20 Sep

LEIGH REGATTA

Leigh-on-Sea, 10.30am-5pm The Annual Old Leigh Regatta is a charity event that sees the Old Leigh High Street close for a day to make room for entertainment, competitions, side shows, craft stalls and water events.There is also live music for all tastes. ■ Sun 27 Sept

SOUTHEND BOYS AND GIRLS CHOIRS SING IN THE ROYAL PAVILION Free entry although normal pier admission applies. Royal Pavilion, Southend Pier, 3pm ■ Thur 1 Oct

FLABBERGHAST

Clifftown Theatre, 7.30pm Simply the greatest vaudevillian double act ever conceived for the small stage, present for your viewing pleasure a plethora of pleasing plays and skits! Expect riotous exploits, malarkey, molestation and mirth. An improvised crossover cabaret featuring Bunraku Puppetry and character comedy for discerningly twisted adult audiences. www.clifftowntheatre.co.uk £12/£10 concession. ■ Every Sat 10 Oct-14 Nov

FIREWORK DISPLAYS

Southend Seafront, 7.30pm This seven week programme of seafront displays will begin in October.The last show will follow the Christmas Light Switch On which will take place on Sat14 Nov. Free. ■ Sat 3 Oct-Sat 12 March 2016

BLACK TIE

Beecroft Art Gallery A celebration of stunning evening wear through the ages, including major loans from Norwich Castle Museum ■ Sat 17 Oct-Thur 10 Dec

MICHELLE THOMPSON – ILLUSTRATION Beecroft Art Gallery Michelle Thompson has been at the forefront of illustration since graduating from the Royal College of Art in 1996. Her illustrations have appeared internationally, most notably in collaboration with the influential British designer Vaughan Oliver and on the cover of Cherie Blair’s book,‘The Goldfish Bowl’.

CONCERTS AT THE PRIORY PARK BANDSTAND ■ Sat 25 July: Whirlwind – Wind Ensemble ■ Sun 26 July: Kickstart – 50s & 60s Music ■ Sat 1 August: Interplay – Jazz Quintet ■ Sun 2 August: John Seeley’s Jazz and Saxophone Group ■ Sat 8 August: Graham Hunter Cool Jazz Quartet ■ Sun 9 August: Da Management – 50s, 60s & 70s group ■ Sat 15 August: Rayleigh Brass ■ Sun 16 August: Bryan Williamson Big Band ■ Sat 22 August: DG Quartet featuring Sharon Scott ■ Sun 23 August: Digby Fairweather – Jazz Trumpet ■ Sat 29 August: Saxology ■ Sat 24 Oct, Sat 31 Oct, Sat 7 Nov

GHOST TRAIN AT SOUTHEND PIER Southend Pier, 6.30pm-20.30pm Climb aboard the Southend Pier Ghost Train and ride with us for spooky stories acted out at the end of the Pier,face painting,fireworks,halloween refreshments and more.£8 Adult/£5 Child ■ Sat 24 Oct-Sat 2 Jan 2016

LEIGH ART TRAIL – WINTER ART AND CRAFT EXHIBITION Beecroft Art Gallery Showcasing Leigh-on-Sea based art, painting, photography, ceramics, sculpture and pottery. All works will be for sale ■ Sun 25

Oct 2015 ZOMBIE WALK AT SOUTHEND PIER

Southend Pier, 3pm-6pm Meet at the end of Southend Pier, in the Royal Pavilon,you may walk or take the train. Once there, there will be a competion to judge the best dressed Zombie, Children and adults will be judged individually.

■ Sun 30 August: Melvin Beddow Big Band ■ Bank Holiday Mon 31 August: Just John – Solo singer raising funds for Southend Hospital ■ Sat 5 September: Backtrack Band Reunited ■ Sun 6 September: Becontree Brass ■ Sat 12 September: Fantazmajazz ■ Sun 13 September: Essex Yeomanry Band ■ Sat 19 September: Yardarm Folk Orchestra ■ Sun 20 September: Harlow Concert Band ■ Sat 26 September: Aveley and Newham Brass Band ■ Sun 27 September: Fidelio Singers

Then all the Zombies will walk, stagger or drag their legs to the Park Inn Palace where a horror movie will be shown that is suitable for adults and children, this also is free.

Please note parking is limited. ■ Sat 14 Nov-Sat 19 Dec

SOUTHEND ARTS COUNCIL Central Museum Annual Visual Arts Exhibition.

COUNCIL DIARY ■ Full Council: Thursday 23 July, 6.30pm ■ Development Control: Wednesday 5 August, 2pm ■ Development Control: Wednesday 9 September, 2pm ■ Full Cabinet: Tuesday 22 September, 2pm ■ Development Control: Wednesday 7 October, 2pm ■ Place Scrutiny: Monday 12 October, 6.30pm ■ People Scrutiny: Tuesday 13 October, 6.30pm ■ Policy & Resources Scrutiny: Thursday 15 October, 6.30pm

■ Full Council: Thursday 22 October, 6.30pm ■ Full Cabinet: Tuesday 10 November, 2pm ■ Development Control: Wednesday 11 November, 2pm All meetings are held at the Civic Centre,Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea. Details of all Council meetings are available at www.southend.gov.uk/ councilmeetings Youth Council meetings take place on the first Wednesday of every month in the Council Chamber at the Civic Centre, 5pm-7pm.

SUMMER 2015 Outlook

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ERRI de Lange is one of 736 people in Southend now enjoying life in a fulfilling job either created or safeguarded thanks to a Government business grant programme administered by the Council. The 28-year-old is a Service Delivery Manager and leads a team of seven at customer contact centre Ventrica. The company received £114,000 from Business Southend towards its £400,000 expansion plan and is now half way through adding another 80 staff to the 150 already employed. “It’s such a lovely place to work because of the vibe, the incredible people from all walks of life and the customer focus,” said Kerri.

Council grants support

736 PEOPLE IN JOBS “I was aware of the Council investment in Ventrica. It helped open up a new wing of the building for our campaign team who support Mylan – one of the world’s top pharmaceutical companies – and other Ventrica employees. My new job is a step up and I’m really enjoying being able to interact with our clients.”

Ventrica is one of 103 firms who have received grants totalling just over £1.11 million which in turn attracted private sector investment of £2.8 million. The programme also staged 42 workshops and handed out seven innovation vouchers which allowed firms to tap into university expertise.

Emma Cooney, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council’s Group Manager for Economy and Tourism, said: “Business Southend has been a fantastic success in supporting the creation of lasting, well paid jobs in the town.” ■ To find out more visit www.businesssouthend.co.uk, or telephone 01702 215022.

Grant aid administered by the Council has opened doors for Kerri de Lange and colleagues at Ventrica.

Business is buzzing at The Hive The HIVE – Southend’s coolest hub for startups, growth and small to medium sized businesses – is buzzing after its spring launch. Entrepreneurs are already using its bespoke, flexi space created over two floors at the Beecroft Gallery. Its Chief Executive Officer Mark Kass said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to work with Southend-on-Sea Borough Council and the business community of

24 Outlook SUMMER 2015

Southend and south Essex to help create economic growth.” Ngozi Omolaiye, who runs the Bernard Michael Consultancy from The Hive’s collaborative space, said: “I’ve already had loads of start-up and growth advice from their in-house business support team that I’m sure will help grow my new recruitment business. “There was no deposit to pay, I moved in straight away and I know that I can upsize or downsize if I need to without any real fuss.” To find out how you could benefit from value-for-money space at The Hive, email thehivesouthend@ thehive.org.uk or call 01702 416000. You can also follow on Twitter and Facebook.

Senior consultant for Bernard Michael Consultancy Ngozi Omolaiye at work in the Hive.