Torfaen Talks - December 2010

www.torfaen.gov.uk

01495 762200

TORFAENTalks Your Community Newspaper

December 2010 - Rhagfyr 2010

Boost for Gwent Frailty Programme From April 2011, a new frailty programme will help to provide vulnerable people in Gwent with streamlined care in their home or community.

The innovative Gwent Frailty Programme will help the most vulnerable people receive care, support and dignity in their homes and community, rather than being admitted to hospital or care homes.

It is being supported by £9million from the Welsh Assembly’s Invest to Save fund.

The programme aims to: • bring together professionals to make sure there is access to the right person at the time needed • co-ordinate communication so people have one key person to guide them through the system and be the main point of contact • deliver the right level of response that can change according to how much support is needed at any particular time • help people remain happily independent • deliver care in or close to home and avoid unnecessary hospital admissions • deliver efficiency savings.

The multi-agency programme is a partnership between Aneurin Bevan Health Board and the local authorities of

World record for Tubby the recycling dog see page 2

Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly, Monmouthshire, Newport and Torfaen.

The chair of the Frailty Programme Board and chief executive of Torfaen council, Alison Ward, said: “Consultation told us citizens wish to receive services and care in the comfort of their home rather than being admitted to hospital.

“The Gwent Frailty Programme brings together staff from health and social services to provide a seamless service to people who do not need urgent treatment in

Lottery boost for Pontypool A Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) grant of £849,500 will help regenerate Pontypool town centre.

The investment is part of HLF’s Townscape Heritage Initiative and will improve the town’s retail and commercial centre.

The scheme, which will be run

by Torfaen council, will see 26 key properties in the Pontypool

Inside »

Town Centre Conservation Area repaired and restored.

The aim is to put vacant floor space back into use and create an attractive destination for shopping and leisure.

Residents will also benefit through training opportunities and community initiatives, as well as new jobs.

(Continued on page 3)

hospital. We know too many older people in particular spend longer than necessary in hospital wards simply because of the lack of suitable alternatives.”

Andrew Goodall, CEO of Aneurin Bevan Health Board, said: “The programme’s clear focus on improving the lives of people has helped win hearts and minds and prevented technical objections that might otherwise have stalled the project.

“It is a simple change, but demonstrates a fundamental

shift in the system and has the potential to deliver enormous benefits – fewer hospital admissions, shorter stays in hospital, leading to fewer complications and reduced demand for complex care packages.”

Cancer support at Cwmbran library see page 6

Corporate Plan to set the council’s priorities see pages 8-11

Are you a PVP in Torfaen?

Did you feel vulnerable during the heavy snow last winter or during any other recent major events such as the outbreak of pandemic flu?

Last year, Torfaen council and its local partners, including health, police, registered social landlords and the voluntary sector, joined forces to protect the borough’s most vulnerable residents in response to a number of severe weather or health-related incidents.

The response to these and other potential emergency situations, such as flooding or heat waves, raised awareness of many people living in the borough who are not normally considered vulnerable until a major situation arises. (Continued on page 3)

Second sustainability week is a big success see page 13

Guinness World Record for Tubby

Photo credit: Paul Michael Hughes/Guinness World Records

Tubby, Torfaen’s world famous recycling dog, has made it into the Guinness Book of World Records 2011.

Seven-year-old Tubby, who is owned by Sandra Gilmore, from West Pontnewydd, has been awarded the record of ‘most bottles recycled by a dog’. This is after Tubby, the only Welsh entry in this year’s book, helped recycle an estimated 26,000 plastic bottles over the past six years.

Tubby, who is one of Torfaen council’s recycling mascots, collects plastic bottles each day from wherever he can find them, before passing them to his owner who recycles them in her black box.

The category is a new record title created after Guinness World Record organisers spotted Tubby’s story in the media.

“It’s quite an achievement,” said the book’s editor-in-chief, Craig Glenday.

“We thought it was great and got in touch with Sandra because it’s such a good message with regard to recycling. It’s an inspiring story for children and adults alike.”

Snub the Alps for Pontypool Why not snub the peaks and pistes of the Alps and enjoy a low-cost skiing experience at Pontypool Park instead?

The flood-lit slope is one of Wales’ longest dry ski slopes and offers a challenging skiing experience for novices and experts alike, without having to travel thousands of miles.

The centre features a 230-metre main slope, beginners’ area, Puma ski lift, Briton ski lift, sprinkler system and mogul run.

Friendly, experienced staff provide instruction and advice, with the Ski School offering instruction for all standards of skiing and snowboarding. The Ski Centre is open to everyone regardless of skiing ability; however, complete beginners must have at least three lessons before they can attend open practice (booking required).

So save money, reduce your carbon footprint and enjoy skiing on a purpose-built slope close to home. Call 01495 756955 or visit www.torfaen.gov.uk/leisureandculture for more information.

Blue Badges

Battling battery waste with boxes

Torfaen residents can now apply for a European Blue Badge online.

Reduce, reuse, recycle.

Those were the words echoing around Llantarnam Community Primary School when pupils were visited by recycling superhero Dan Can. Torfaen council’s recycling mascot visited the school to drop off recycling boxes for used batteries. The council started delivering the boxes to schools and civic buildings earlier this year in a move to encourage battery recycling.

Just three per cent of the UK’s household batteries purchased last year were recycled. That’s the equivalent of 600 million batteries, or 22,000 tonnes, being sent to landfill sites.

For information on battery recycling, call 01495 766794, visit www.torfaen.gov.uk or go to www.recyclenow.co.uk

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Farm’s facilities improved Greenmeadow Community Farm has benefitted from a £220,000 investment to improve facilities.

Work at the farm included the creation of a new and improved Eye Paddock, which has been redesigned to provide an arena for events, permanent animal housing, upgraded footpaths and a shelter to provide cover from the rain or sun. The woodland and pond area next to the Eye Paddock has also been upgraded.

Works to the Haybarn have resulted in an all new activity room, ‘the LOFT’ (Learning Outdoors for Tomorrow), a fantastic hatchery and small animal facility, and a new base for the Gwent Guild of Spinners, Weaver and Dyers. The works were funded by Valleys Regional Park, Welsh Assembly Government and Torfaen council.

Meanwhile, Santa Claus will be doing a later shift in his special grotto from 3.30pm-5pm on Friday 10 December, Monday 13 December and Friday 17 December. Admission between these times is just £5 per child. Different prices apply during the farm’s normal opening hours. Visit www.greenmeadowcommunityfarm.org.uk or call 01633 647662 for more information.

The European Blue Badge Parking Scheme helps people who have severely restricted mobility and provides a range of parking benefits for disabled people who travel either as drivers or passengers.

Residents may qualify for a Blue Badge if they receive the higher rate of the mobility component of the Disability Living Allowance, receive a War Pensioner’s Mobility Supplement, use a vehicle supplied by a government health department, are registered blind, have a severe disability in both upper limbs, or have a disability that causes inability to walk or very considerable difficulty in walking.

For more information about the scheme, telephone 01495 762200, visit www.torfaen.gov.uk/bluebadge or call into one of Torfaen’s four Customer Care Centres.

For an audio version of Torfaen Talks call 01495 766417

Lottery funding to improve town (Continued from page 1) Local property owner and Pontypool resident Franc Marino said: “This is great news for local businesses and the community.

“Having seen the difference previous restoration work has made, I know this initiative will have a big impact on the area.

“Having brought up my family in Pontypool, I want my children to be positive about the area and initiatives like this will make it a better place for them to live.

“I’m confident it will attract more business to the area. In the current tough economic climate a lot of property owners like me would struggle to carry out restoration work, but with the aid of lottery funding it is now possible.”

A community project to create art hoardings for use while building work is taking place will give local people the opportunity to capture the past, the present and future aspirations for Pontypool.

Other community initiatives will include a digital film project and the creation of a Pontypool Town Heritage Trail, as well as a

Follow Torfaen’s tweeting Stay in touch with all the latest council news, events and information via social networking site Twitter.

Pontypool Heritage Open House in September each year.

Dan Clayton Jones, the chairman of the HLF’s committee for Wales, said: “This grant will provide a boost for Pontypool and will have a significant impact in revitalising this once thriving industrial town.”

Councillor Bob Wellington, leader of Torfaen council, added: “This is fantastic news that will be welcomed by Pontypool

Modernising library with £300,000 refurbishment

traders, shoppers and residents.

“This investment will allow us to take a huge step forward in our journey to regenerate Pontypool town centre.”

The Pontypool Regeneration Partnership is supporting the scheme with £100,000 over the next five years.

HLF has invested in 64 projects or schemes in Torfaen, including the Blaenavon Forgotten Landscapes project, totalling £10,481,626.

Torfaen council tweets short and snappy messages to its followers, including links to upcoming events, latest job vacancies, lastminute information people need to know and press releases. You can view Twitter through your home computer or mobile phone.

It is free to use, but you must sign up to take part.

If you have already subscribed to Twitter, follow @torfaencouncil for the latest council news.

Are you a PVP in Torfaen?

Work has begun on a £300,000 refurbishment of Pontypool library.

The popular library is undergoing a major refurbishment following a grant from the Welsh Assembly Government. The modernised library, which celebrated its centenary in 2008, is expected to reopen in late spring 2011. Once reopened, it will provide a more comfortable and contemporary environment for its customers.

In the meantime, the library is operating from the former register office on Hanbury Road, where a wide selection of books, audiobooks, CDs and DVDs can be borrowed. Although a reduced number of computers are available, customers can still use the internet and word processing facilities free-of-charge.

Councillor Lewis Jones, deputy leader of Torfaen council, said: “The refurbished library will offer a wider range of services and a more open layout on the ground floor. The basement will be brought into public use as a computer suite and community meeting room, while the library will be fully accessible for wheelchair users.”

Customers who have difficulty accessing the former register office can contact the library to enquire about a temporary library@home service or details of mobile library stops. For more information, email pontypool.library@torfaen.gov.uk or call 01495 766160.

Grants available for veterans Second World War veterans and their widows can apply for Big Lottery Fund grants for commemorative trips to places where they served.

Lottery grants up to

£5,500 are available for accommodation and travel costs for veterans or their widows, plus their spouses or carers. The Heroes Return 2 scheme closes on 31 January 2011.

For more information, call 0845 00 00 121.

(Continued from page 1) These are people who could become vulnerable based on their age, mobility, health issues, numbers living in a household, ethnicity or gender.

Some vulnerable groups are permanently vulnerable and receive services to support their daily lives, while others become temporarily vulnerable and are at increased risk during bad weather, which can limit their ability to complete daily living tasks, such as shopping for food.

To help vulnerable residents cope during the snow, the council asked neighbours to find time to rally round and harness

community spirit. This request for help was met with wonderful examples of friends, families and neighbours going the extra mile as snow buddies, with many others coming forward to become flu friends during the swine flu pandemic. This year, the council and partners are already planning how to increase support for potentially vulnerable people (PVP) during periods of bad weather or any other local emergency situation.

If you wish to register as a PVP, contact 01495 762200 or complete a form at the online services section at www.torfaen.gov.uk

IN BRIEF Low cost homes

If you’d like to buy a home in Torfaen, you might be interested in the Melin Homes development at Clos Odyn, Pentwyn.

Properties can be purchased on a 70/30 shared equity basis. Prices for a 70 per cent stake are: • two bedroom semidetached – £84,000 • three bedroom semidetached – £91,000 For more information, call 01495 745928.

Empty properties

Action is being taken by the council to reduce the number of empty properties in the borough.

Empty properties are eyesores and can lower local property values, contribute to a housing shortage and increase pressure for housing development on green field sites. To report an empty property or bring one back into use, telephone 01495 742629 or 01633 647295.

Register to vote

The Welsh Assembly election will be held on 5 May, while a referendum on changing the Assembly’s law making powers will be held on 3 March.

To vote, you must be on the electoral register. If you didn’t receive an annual electoral registration form in September or have since moved, you must let the council know. Visit any council office, go to www.torfaen.gov.uk, call 01495 762200 or email voting@torfaen.gov.uk

Activities guide

A brand new activities and workshops guide to help people in Torfaen to Try Something Different is out this month.

Events have been organised at venues throughout Torfaen, including Greenmeadow Community Farm, Pontypool Active Living Centre, Pontypool Park, Pontypool Indoor Market, Blaenavon World Heritage Centre and Blaenavon World Heritage Site. For details, go to www.visittorfaen.co.uk or call 01495 742333.

Register to vote, call 01495 762200 or email voting@torfaen.gov.uk

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Santa’s coming to town Blaenavon is gearing up for its Winter Wonderland on 4-5 December.

The Winter Wonderland promises to be a festive treat for all the family, with Santa making a return with his real reindeer on both days. Children can visit him in his grotto and meet his reindeer.

There will be a covered Christmas market in Market Square and an outdoor ice rink. And it’s not just the Winter Wonderland being held in Blaenavon this December, there are many different festive events taking place. Among the events is the one-off comedy show, Christmas Committee Meeting, featuring TV and radio star Chris Corcoran, which takes place on 21 December in Blaenavon Workmen’s Hall.

Don’t let hazards ruin Christmas Christmas is a special time for families and should not end in tragedy because of extra hazards present during the festive season.

The following advice should help protect you and your family: • Check for faulty tree lights and worn wires before putting up your Christmas lighting. If in doubt, throw them out • Be careful when dressing Christmas trees – wobbly stepladders or a poke in the eye from a sharp branch cause most casualties • Christmas decorations have to comply with standards that

make them less likely to burst into flames, but they are not fire-proof so keep them away from heat • Candles can easily set fire to other materials, such as table clothes and curtains, so use them with care • Don’t overload plugs and sockets with too many appliances or cables, as this poses a risk of electrocution and fires • Keep choking hazards away from children, especially Christmas cracker gifts, tree decorations, other people’s presents, nuts and batteries • Trip hazards can arise from present packaging, toys (with or without wheels) and

Cause for caution over some charity collections Torfaen residents are being urged to check the small print when donating clothes to charities through door-todoor collections.

Following a large increase in companies posting collection bags through people’s front doors, the council is urging residents to check what charity is going to benefit from the donation and how much money it is likely to receive.

It’s common practice for private companies to collect on behalf of charities, who then receive a proportion of the company’s profits.

However, this percentage varies and it can be as low as 20 per cent. In some cases, concerns have also been raised about the validity of the charity in question.

If you have any concerns about door-to-door collections or would like more information, contact 01633 647286.

Be safe and secure while you shop around online Gateway Credit Union

Spread the cost of Christmas The number of families using Gateway Credit Union’s Christmas Saver Account has more than doubled this year.

The Christmas Saver Account is a straightforward savings account, ‘locked’ until November, when members draw their savings out for Christmas shopping.

Savers receive an annual dividend dependent on the credit union’s performance.

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Members can save as little or as much as they choose, in cash or by cheque, bank standing order or with a PayPoint card.

Gateway is currently offering loans for Christmas for new and existing members who want to spread the cost this year. You can also start saving with Gateway for next year’s Christmas.

For more information, visit www.gatewaycu.co.uk or call 01495 750020.

Online shopping is quick and convenient – and it can be safe and secure, if you buy from a reputable site.

Don’t let an online fraudster spoil your online Christmas shopping experience this year, by reading the following tips to keep you save online: • Use retailers and services you know about – or ones personally recommended to you • Shop around – a great deal might well be on offer somewhere else and cheaper • Make sure you know the trader’s full address – especially if the company is based outside the UK. The internet makes buying from abroad easy, so it’s important you know your rights • Don’t assume an internet

company is based in the UK just because its web address has ‘uk’ in it – check its address and phone number • If the item or service is over £100, consider paying by credit card • Look for websites that have a secure way of paying (known as an encryption facility) – these show a padlock at the bottom of the screen when you are filling in the payment details • Check whether the company has a privacy statement saying what it will do with your personal information • Look for firms that are part of an independent approval scheme.

For more advice on shopping safely online, email trading. standards@torfaen.gov.uk or telephone 01495 762200.

presents, so tidy up as gifts are opened • Follow the Firework Code if using fireworks over the Christmas period • Don’t buy unlabelled toys, make sure toys conform to British Safety Standards and are suitable for the child’s age.

For advice on Christmas products or any consumer advice needs, call Consumer Direct Wales on 08454 040506.

Handy hints for reducing your waste Christmas is coming and the goose is getting fat, but that doesn’t mean your rubbish bags have to get any fuller.

With your help, Torfaen council hopes to reduce the extra waste that is produced over the Christmas period usually more than 30 per cent!

Loads of items can be recycled, but the council cannot accept wrapping paper, Christmas cards, envelopes or cardboard. You can also follow these handy tips: • When shopping for Christmas presents and food, use reusable shopping bags or reuse carrier bags • Do not over wrap Christmas presents – use a Christmas stocking instead of paper or use recycled paper • Try sending electronic cards • Cut up old Christmas cards and make tags for presents • Buy Christmas trees with roots so they can be replanted in the garden or buy an artificial Christmas tree that can be reused • Buy rechargeable instead of disposable batteries • Take cardboard to recycling banks in Torfaen.

For more information on how to reduce your waste and recycle more, visit www.torfaen.gov.uk/waste

For advice on how to shop safely online, call 01495 762200

Safety tips for the perfect cooked turkey Don’t let food poisoning ruin Christmas for you and your family.

Many people sitting down to Christmas dinner will be eating turkey, so here are some safety tips to help protect you: • Keep raw poultry away from ready-to-eat foods

• Always store raw foods below ready-to-eat or cooked foods in the fridge • Always wash your hands, utensils and worktops thoroughly after handling raw poultry • Always use separate chopping boards for raw poultry and meat • Always make sure poultry is properly cooked before serving (above 75C) and the juices run clear • If using a frozen turkey, ensure it’s properly defrosted before you cook it, otherwise

Get home safely this Christmas Enjoy a safer night out over Christmas and New Year by using the council’s Cab Safe scheme.

Cab Safe allows people to text CAB to a simple number – 83222 – to receive contact numbers for the three nearest licensed taxi and private car hire companies in their area.

Run in conjunction with Gwent Police, the scheme provides contact details to licensed safe reliable transport, so people avoid unlicensed vehicles that ply for hire illegally and could potentially be unsafe.

The scheme, which is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, works by locating the sender via their mobile phone signal and replying automatically.

recommended cooking times won’t be long enough and food poisoning bacteria could survive the cooking process • If defrosting turkey somewhere cool, such as a garage or garden shed, instead of a fridge, keep the turkey covered and ensure pets and young children are kept away • Pour away any liquid that comes out of the defrosting turkey regularly • Don’t wash the turkey as bacteria can splash onto worktops, dishes and other foods. Proper cooking will kill any bacteria • Giblets are raw meat.

They should either be cooked immediately or stored in a sealed container in the fridge until you cook them • There are three main ways to tell if a turkey is properly cooked – the meat should be piping hot all the way through, when the thickest part of the meat is cut none of the meat should be pink, and the juices should run clear

• Plan your cooking time in advance, to ensure the turkey goes in the oven early enough to cook it thoroughly • Often cooking advice is included on the turkey’s packaging, but as a general guide allow 18-20 minutes per 450g (1lb) at 190C, 375F, gas mark five • After cooking, any leftover turkey should be cooled quickly (in no more than one and a half hours) and then covered or placed in a sealed container and put it in the fridge • Keep cooked meat and poultry in the fridge • Try to take out only as much as you are going to use and leave the rest in the fridge • If re-heating, always make sure it’s piping hot all the way through before you eat it (above 75C) • Don’t re-heat turkey more than once and use leftovers within 48 hours.

Help to spread some festive joy You can help to make Christmas special for hundreds of children and young people who might otherwise miss out.

Louise Bright, of the council’s 16+ team, said: “In previous years, people have been incredibly generous, but we do understand that more families may be feeling the pinch themselves this year.

“However, please remember that some young people are

completely alone and even a small gift will go a long way towards making their Christmas.

“We’re not asking people to spend a lot of money – it really is the thought that counts.”

Those wishing to spread a little joy this Christmas are asked to telephone 01633 647537 or 647539.

Gifts need to be received by 10 December.

Enjoy the party but avoid the booze blues Here are some useful tips on making sure your Christmas is one to remember (not to forget!): • Plan how you’re going to get home before you go out • Remember you can be over the limit the next morning too • Drink water regularly • Use soft drink ‘spacers’ in between alcoholic drinks • Eat before you start and snack while you’re drinking • Don’t accept drinks from strangers or leave your

drinks unattended • Set a good example to young people by drinking responsibly • Don’t top-up your drinks, as it makes it easier to lose track of how much you’re drinking • Try a smaller glass for a change • Set a sensible drinking budget and stick to it • Try a lower alcohol beer • Keep the sensible drinking guidelines in mind – men shouldn’t regularly drink more than 3-4 units of alcohol a day, and women 2-3 • Know your drinking limits Visit www.drinkaware.co.uk for more information.

Check the score and eat safely

Check the Score on the Door before you eat out this Christmas.

With many people eating out in the lead up to Christmas, now is the perfect time to go online and check the hygiene score of the restaurant you are visiting for a meal.

The National Food Hygiene Rating Scheme, better known as Scores on the Doors, has been set up by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) to help people make informed decisions about where they eat. It also encourages businesses to improve their hygiene standards.

Hundreds of businesses serving food and drink throughout Torfaen have been visited by environmental health officers and given a score of 0 (poor) to 5 (excellent) following an unannounced food hygiene inspection.

The rating is publicised on the FSA website and there is a sticker that can be put on the door or window of the business.

You can search for the rating by business, street, post code or type of premises.

If the score on the door is 3, 4 or 5, you know the business largely or fully complies with the law and produces food that is safe to eat.

While businesses don’t have to display their score, the best premises will probably wish to display it, so the lack of visible certificate should raise concerns for consumers.

For more information, visit www.torfaen.gov.uk/ scoresonthedoors or www.food.gov.uk/scores

Spread some joy this Christmas, call 01633 647537 or 647539

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Cancer support officer now based at Cwmbran library A dedicated Macmillan cancer information and support officer is working within Cwmbran library.

Funded by Macmillan for three years, Norah Williams (pictured below) offers information and support to people affected by cancer, including patients, relatives, carers and friends.

The service, called Macmillan@ Cwmbran, is a partnership between Macmillan Cancer

Support and Torfaen council.

Norah said: “We offer good quality information about cancer to patients, their families, friends and carers in a relaxed setting, which is often closer to home.

“We provide booklets on a wide range of areas for people who have had a cancer diagnosis, are going through treatment or have survived cancer.

“I can also help people access financial help such as advice on welfare benefits and Macmillan grants.”

This is only the second service of its kind in Wales and, while it will be based initially at Cwmbran library, there are plans to extend it to other sites in Torfaen.

Service praised The Deputy Older People’s Commissioner for Wales has praised the partnership between Torfaen’s health and social care professionals.

Sarah Stone described the partnership as “a pioneering service which is greatly valued by those who use it”, during a visit to the Falls Prevention Clinic at Canalside, Cwmbran. She said the key message was staff “feel they are on a mission to improve the way older people are served by health and social care services, so they are not admitted to hospital unnecessarily and are able to be as independent as possible.”

The visit was part of a series of visits by the Older People’s Commissioner, Ruth Marks, and Ms Stone.

Ms Stone also visited Age Concern’s Widdershins Centre. She described it as “an example of a successful community enterprise.”

Crafts and gifts galore as Trysolau opens its doors

A social enterprise selling local crafts and products will be providing training opportunities in retail for people with learning disabilities.

Trysolau – which means treasure or gifts in Welsh – will be located in Commercial Street, Pontypool.

Among the goods that will be on sale are products made by people who attend some of

Torfaen’s day activities projects, for example homemade chutneys and jams, rustic Christmas decorations, wooden bowls, cards, gifts and walking sticks.

Up to three trainees will work in the shop on any one day, supported by the charity, United Response. Trysolau will also sell goods on behalf of other local businesses and crafts people.

For more information, contact 01495 742261.

Working together for a healthier Torfaen Heart disease affects certain groups and communities more than others and in Torfaen there are several areas where heart health remains among the worst in Wales.

Being overweight or obese raises the risk of developing heart disease, which can lead to premature illness and death.

Torfaen has a high and rising level of obesity compared to Wales as a whole. Eating a little bit too much and not doing enough physical activity adds up over time and can cause real health problems.

The causes of sedentary behaviour and poor diets are complex.

Supporting people to help them manage a healthy weight is more difficult than you might think – a fact anyone who’s ever tried to lose weight will know.

As a result, British Heart Foundation Cymru’s Hearty Lives programme is investing £1.5million in Torfaen over the next three years. Working in partnership with Aneurin Bevan Health Board, Torfaen council and Public Health Wales, Hearty Lives is delivering the following free programmes: Fun activities for children and parents: Hearty Lives Torfaen offers free programmes for children and their parents concerned about their weight and/or eating and physical activity habits.

Mend 2-4: For parents of all children aged 2-4. The service takes place at community centres and is a combination of active and creative play and parent/carer workshops on topics including fussy eating and healthy eating.

Mend 7-13: Targets children who are over their healthy weight for their height and age.

This after-school programme offers children and their families fun exercise with a fitness trainer and interactive nutrition education. Families interested can call Jocelyne Jones on 01633 647420, MEND central on 0800 2300263 or visit www.mendcentral.org

Promoting healthy behaviour not only provides benefits for children and young people now but also in the future.

The Hearty Lives teams will be working with local schools to get all children motivated about healthy eating and physical activity. They’ll be offered fun workshops and free after-school activities, as well as integrating activities into the curriculum.

Achieving and maintaining a healthier weight for life For adults who want to improve their eating habits, do more physical activity or manage their weight, Hearty Lives Torfaen provides opportunities tailored to need.

P n

Total Health 2 is an eightweek weight management programme delivered in the community. It focuses on achieving a healthier weight and maintaining it for life, H through food and physical P activity. For support to lose weight and achieve a healthy f lifestyle, contact the Health a Improvement Team on 01495 762200 or email health. w improvement@torfaen.gov.uk a Torfaen Weight Management s Service based at Canalside Resource Centre, Cwmbran, is i for people who need more b support with weight loss.

It is delivered by a team including a specialist F doctor, psychologist, dietitian, exercise instructor and nurse. Referrals are through your GP. w

Page 66 Contact Hearty Lives on 01495 332156 or catherine.brunnock@wales.nhs.uk Page

Police operation targets speeding vehicles Drivers across Torfaen are being urged to “slow down” as part of a police operation targeting speeding vehicles.

Following the summer Partnerships and Communities Together (PACT) meetings across Torfaen, speeding became a priority in 16 out of the 24 wards. In response, neighbourhood officers teamed up with the Wales Road Casualty Reduction Partnership (WRCRP) for two days of action aimed at reducing the speed of traffic and educating those responsible.

During the operation, 3,524 vehicles were monitored in Torfaen by officers using handheld devices in areas where speeding has been reported.

Six covert devices were also deployed to gather data on the speed of traffic.

The result of the two-day operation was: • 84 drivers received a notice of intended prosecution • one vehicle seized for no insurance • four fixed penalties issued for use of a mobile phone while driving • three fixed penalties issued for illegal parking • one fixed penalty issued for public order • one fixed penalty issued for the anti-social use of a vehicle • six verbal warnings given as driver education.

Police film Make it a Christmas now online to remember this year… for all the right reasons

Police Sergeant John Cottrell, from Gwent Police and coordinator of the WRCRP, said: “Our priority as a partnership is to reduce casualties, educate motorists and influence driver behaviour.

“We will continue to work closely with the neighbourhood teams and local authorities throughout Gwent to tackle the issue of speed, driver education and to reduce casualties on the roads in Wales.”

Sergeant Clive Elliot, from Pontypool Neighbourhood Policing Team, added: “This operation was organised as a direct result of the concerns expressed at PACT meetings.

“We hope this reassures residents that we are listening and taking action.

“We are pleased to announce that as a result of the operation, Old Crumlin Road in Wainfelin will now become a camera enforcement site, so expect to see the speeding vans in this area over the forthcoming months.”

Scam warning Residents need to be aware of scammers, especially in the lead up to Christmas.

Every year about three million people fall victim to mass-marketed scams such as bogus lotteries, deceptive prize draws, fake psychics and miracle health cures. A recent example were calls advising people their properties had been rebranded for council tax and they were due a refund. They were then asked for their bank details.

Under no circumstance should you give out personal details over the phone.

Police surgeries Would you like more information on what the police are doing to tackle anti-social behaviour?

Police surgeries are held in each area across Torfaen every month and they are your opportunity to drop in and discuss any issues with your neighbourhood officer.

For more information, visit www.gwent.police.uk

Blaenavon bobby scores with Welsh Football Trust

With Christmas just around the corner, Cwmbran and Pontypool neighbourhood policing teams are offering seasonal advice to ensure your festivities are full of joy.

Have you seen Gwent Police’s new four-minute film, Through the Eyes of a Burglar?

If not, watch it now, visit www.youtube.com/gwentpolice and scroll down the right hand side of the page.

You can also get live information about Gwent Police by following it at Twitter.

Follow @gwentpolice

www.facebook.com/gwentpolice

The likelihood of being affected by crime over the Christmas period is extremely low, but by taking the following advice you can reduce that possibility even further: • When out shopping, make sure your purse or wallet is safely tucked away in a zip-able compartment of a bag or coat • Don’t leave anything on display in your car - put valuables in the glove compartment and lock presents in the boot • Put presents under the tree at the last minute – remember Father Christmas doesn’t visit until late on Christmas Eve! • Draw your curtains or tilt blinds, so gifts are not on display to passers-by • Always make sure you lock doors and windows when you go out or go to bed and store your keys out of reach.

And while not crime prevention advice, the following is equally important: • Enjoy yourself and meet up with friends and relatives, but if you’ve been drinking alcohol, walk home or catch a taxi • Always check your vehicle before heading out in bad weather • Make sure your lights are working, your anti-freeze is topped up, your tyre tread is sufficient and allow extra time to get to your destination.

By following these tips you can make it a Christmas to remember, for all the right reasons. If you do, however, need police assistance, just call 999 for emergencies or 101 for non-emergencies.

The police will be working around the clock to ensure you have a safe and merry Christmas and a happy new year.

Cardiff City FC manager Dave Jones should be aware, as there are six teenagers and a PCSO from Blaenavon ready to step into his dugout!

PCSO Pauline Lohfink and the youngsters have recently completed soccer skills workshops, in conjunction with Dragon Sports and the Welsh Football Trust. They have also taken part in a half-term full of fun at Cardiff City FC with 36 of their friends.

PCSO Pauline Lohfink, who raised £3,200 for the training, explained: “We held youth PACT meetings and a lot of the younger children were telling us they were weary of the older children and would like to get to know them better.

“I thought about setting up some football matches, so they could become friends. I had the idea about getting the older boys trained as football leaders and heard Cardiff City were running ‘soccer schools’. I knew this would be the perfect way for the youngsters to forge new friendships and who knows, maybe the next Beckham will be from Blaenavon!”

Voice your opinion at PACT meetings - details at www.gwent.police.uk Page 7

The 2010-11 Corporate Plan update Each financial year, the council is required to publish how it has performed and improved its services, informing Torfaen citizens of progress delivering the priorities of its Corporate Plan.

The current economic climate is creating new challenges for the council to face and the Corporate Plan continues to bring clarity when difficult decisions are needed.

The following is a summary of the information contained in the Corporate Plan update. It sets out progress made during the past year and highlights some of the activities the council is undertaking during the current year to achieve its vision for Torfaen – a safe, prosperous, sustainable place where everyone has the opportunity to be

the best they can be.

The council is currently formulating its second Corporate Plan, to start in 2011/12.

It will reflect the community leadership role of elected members and will be based upon the views of a wide range of organisations and individuals.

The ‘What Matters to You?’ campaign held in April proved very popular with citizens and the feedback is currently being considered, to help set the council’s priorities for the next five years.

supportive, fair, effective

Improved services for vulnerable people Last financial year, the council: • Helped 1,948 people aged 65 or over to live at home • Reduced the numbers of delayed transfers of care in Torfaen by redesigning the service to better meet the needs of older people with mental health problems • Identified 600 new carers who it has supported so they can continue their critical roles providing unpaid care • Created and launched an anti-bullying website.

In 2010/11, the council is: • Working with health, social care and the voluntary sector across Gwent, to deliver services designed around the needs of frail people, ensuring continuing independence and reducing delayed transfers of care • Recruiting foster carers who can provide placements for sibling groups and older children • Supporting people in greatest need by helping with basic skills, financial literacy, affordable warmth, fuel poverty and maximising benefit take up.

Reduce crime and anti-social behaviour

Last financial year, the council: • Secured, with partners, funding of £1.5million to tackle heart disease in the area through focussing on obesity, as part of the British Heart Foundation’s UK-wide Hearty Lives programme • Completed the new £2.73million community facility in Trevethin.

The LIFE Station encourages residents to adopt healthier lifestyles.

In 2010/11, the council is: • Running the Health Challenge Torfaen campaign to improve healthy lifestyles • Introducing a ‘Scores on the Doors’ scheme so consumers are aware of hygiene standards at food businesses • Implementing the ‘Appetite for Life’ research project to improve secondary school meals and attain WAG’s nutritional guidelines • Undertaking a range of interventions to reduce the sale of tobacco and alcohol to underage people.

Action to help people feel safe in their neighbourhoods

Last financial year, the council:

Last financial year, the council:

• Recruited and trained Police Community Support Officers to support Dragon Sport activities in schools and the community • Secured funding to enable it to pilot a coach mentoring programme. Outdoor and adventurous activities have a huge impact on self-confidence, esteem, attitude, interaction and communication skills of those involved.

• Increased the number of wards with safer neighbourhood groups to 19 • Worked with six of Torfaen’s registered social landlords and Gwent Police to tackle a range of anti-social issues • Secured £665,000 from the Welsh Assembly to undertake a number of road safety schemes providing safer routes in local communities.

In 2010/11, the council is: • Improving the availability of activities that divert young people away from anti-social behaviour, including challenging outdoor activities, school holiday activities, and play sessions • Working with other agencies to prevent households falling victim to rogue traders • Working with young people suspected of anti-social behaviour to raise awareness of living respectfully.

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Improved health for everyone by promoting healthier lifestyles

In 2010/11, the council is: • Improving the local environment through more effective enforcement of fly-tipping and littering • Identifying unlicensed vehicles and drivers being used for hire ensuring safe transport of taxi passengers • Utilising the £665,000 funding secured last year to improve the safety of roads and pavements, to encourage more people to walk and cycle.

The 2010/11 update can be viewed in full at www.torfaen.gov.uk

Improved quality of teaching and learning for young people and other students

Citizens of all ages are equipped with the necessary skills for employment and the regeneration of their local communities

Last financial year, the council:

Last financial year, the council:

• Halved the number of children leaving education without any form of qualification and reduced the number of children leaving school and not going into education, training or employment • Continued to develop plans to improve education across Torfaen and commenced the remodelling of Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw • Secured approval to create a £8.7million school, to modernise and transform additional learning needs education

• Successfully secured up to £3.9million over the next two years from the Future Jobs Fund to invest in the local economy and provide up to 600 new jobs • Launched the Social Economy Key Fund to support community organisations and people starting social enterprises with grants • Secured £522,473 of European Social Fund money to deliver a project to help 11-19 year olds from gypsy traveller communities in Torfaen to gain skills and enter the workforce.

• Created three school-based hi-tech learning plazas.

In 2010/11, the council is:

In 2010/11, the council is:

• Delivering a range of skills and qualifications enhancing employability to those in need • Providing projects and support to people requiring essential and basic skills training • Working with economically inactive people to remove barriers to finding and maintaining employment, including childcare and transport.

• Developing a long term plan to ensure all its learning facilities are fit to meet the needs of all learners • Continuing to progress the Blaenavon Community Campus, which will provide health, education and leisure services • Improving school facilities – a new school in south west Cwmbran and a new Welsh-medium school, with nursery provision, have opened.

Improved waste management and increased recycling

A cleaner and more energy efficient area

Last financial year, the council:

Last financial year, the council:

• Recycled and composted more than 21,000 tonnes of waste • Reduced the amount of biodegradable waste going to landfill by more than 3,000 tonnes • Worked with Blaenau Gwent and Caerphilly councils to look at options to stop food and garden waste (organic) from being land-filled • Took over the running of the recycling service to improve the service and boost recycling rates.

• Consulted on plans to turn off certain street lights across Torfaen. The approach was highlighted as national best practice • Reduced carbon emissions by 9.47 per cent, taking it past its 15 per cent target for 2012. The creation of an energy efficiency fund and the street lighting switch off made a significant contribution • Developed a plan with targets on energy reduction, staff travel reduction, internal authority waste reduction and increased recycling from council-owned buildings.

In 2010/11, the council is: • Developing and procuring a longer term organics contract with Blaenau Gwent and Caerphilly councils • Introducing revised waste and recycling routes in Torfaen • Investigating potential funding sources for a new Household Waste Recycling Centre in the north of Torfaen.

Improved quality, variety and affordability of housing

In 2010/11, the council is: • Improving sustainability of construction and maintenance projects • Working with planning applicants at the design stage, to ensure properties are built or refurbished to be more energy efficient • Turning off street lighting, to reduce carbon emissions and generate funding to support front line services.

Reduced homelessness

Last financial year, the council:

Last financial year, the council:

• Developed 65 new affordable homes in Torfaen, nearly half of the total new housing in the area • Completed phase one of the £7million Blenheim Square development and completed 24 units in Llantarnam, through a section 106 agreement with Barratt Homes • Secured a one-off grant of £800,000 to assist a scheme that helps first-time buyers onto the property ladder.

• Successfully worked, in partnership with Bron Afon Community Housing, to introduce a new joint allocations policy called Homeseeker, which helps to house those in greatest need.

In 2010/11, the council is: • Implementing the Empty Hopes Project, identifying unoccupied private sector housing and looking at options for bringing these properties back into use • Using planning gain to secure additional affordable housing on major housing proposals.

In 2010/11, the council is: • Identifying and starting to deliver the priorities within the 10year homelessness plan • Developing a Housing Solutions Service, in conjunction with partners, to allow better access to housing advice and information • Improving access to advice and information for customers who are registered with the Torfaen Homeseeker scheme.

Call 01495 742158 or email improvement@torfaen.gov.uk

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Y Cynllun Corfforaethol – Diweddariad 2010-11 Bob blwyddyn ariannol mae’n ofynnol i’r cyngor gyhoeddi ei berfformiad a’r gwelliannau a wnaed i’w wasanaethau, felly’n hysbysu dinasyddion Torfaen o’i gynnydd wrth fynd ati i wireddu blaenoriaethau ein Cynllun Corfforaethol.

Mae’r hinsawdd economaidd sydd ohoni ar hyn o bryd yn creu heriau newydd i’r cyngor ac mae’r Cynllun Corfforaethol yn parhau i gynnig eglurhad pan fod angen gwneud penderfyniadau anodd.

Mae’r wybodaeth a ganlyn yn grynodeb o’r wybodaeth sydd wedi ei chynnwys yn y diweddariad o’r Cynllun Corfforaethol. Y mae’n nodi’r cynnydd a wnaed yn ystod y flwyddyn ddiwethaf ac yn amlygu rhai o’r gweithgareddau y mae’r cyngor yn ymgymryd â hwy yn ystod y flwyddyn hon i wireddu ei weledigaeth ar gyfer Torfaen - sef lle diogel,

cefnogol , teg, effeithiol

Gwasanaethau gwell i bobl fregus Yn y flwyddyn ariannol ddiwethaf, fe wnaeth y cyngor: • Helpu 1,948 o bobl 65 oed neu hyˆn i fyw gartref • Lleihau nifer yr achosion o oedi wrth drosglwyddo gofal yn Nhorfaen drwy ailgynllunio’r gwasanaeth er mwyn mynd ati’n well i ddiwallu anghenion pobl hyˆn â phroblemau iechyd meddwl • Nodi 600 o ofalwyr newydd, a’u cefnogi er mwyn eu galluogi i barhau â’u swyddogaethau hanfodol o ddarparu gofal heb dâl • Creu a lansio gwefan gwrth-fwlio.

Yn 2010/11, mae’r cyngor yn: • Gweithio gyda’r gwasanaeth iechyd a gofal cymdeithasol a’r sector gwirfoddol ar draws Gwent, i gyflawni gwasanaethau sydd wedi eu llunio ar anghenion pobl fregus, gan roi’r pwyslais ar annibyniaeth a lleihau oedi wrth drosglwyddo gofal • Recriwtio gofalwyr maeth a all gynnig lleoliadau i grwpiau o frodyr a chwiorydd a phlant hyˆn • Cefnogi’r bobl â’r anghenion mwyaf, gan helpu gyda sgiliau sylfaenol, llythrennedd ariannol, gwres fforddiadwy, tlodi tanwydd a sicrhau bod mwy yn derbyn eu budd-daliadau.

Lleihau trosedd ac ymddygiad gwrthgymdeithasol

Gwell canlyniadau iechyd i bawb drwy hyrwyddo ffyrdd o fyw iachach Yn y flwyddyn ariannol ddiwethaf, fe wnaeth y cyngor: • Helpu 1,948 o bobl 65 oed neu hyˆn i fyw gartref • Lleihau nifer yr achosion o oedi wrth drosglwyddo gofal yn Nhorfaen drwy ailgynllunio’r gwasanaeth er mwyn mynd ati’n well i ddiwallu anghenion pobl hyˆn â phroblemau iechyd meddwl • Nodi 600 o ofalwyr newydd, a’u cefnogi er mwyn eu galluogi i barhau â’u swyddogaethau hanfodol o ddarparu gofal heb dâl • Creu a lansio gwefan gwrth-fwlio.

Yn 2010/11, mae’r cyngor yn: • Gweithio gyda’r gwasanaeth iechyd a gofal cymdeithasol a’r sector gwirfoddol ar draws Gwent, i gyflawni gwasanaethau sydd wedi eu llunio ar anghenion pobl fregus, gan roi’r pwyslais ar annibyniaeth a lleihau oedi wrth drosglwyddo gofal • Recriwtio gofalwyr maeth a all gynnig lleoliadau i grwpiau o frodyr a chwiorydd a phlant hyˆn • Cefnogi’r bobl â’r anghenion mwyaf, gan helpu gyda sgiliau sylfaenol, llythrennedd ariannol, gwres fforddiadwy, tlodi tanwydd a sicrhau bod mwy yn derbyn eu budd-daliadau.

Gweithredu i helpu pobl deimlo’n ddiogel yn eu cymdogaethau

Yn y flwyddyn ariannol ddiwethaf, fe wnaeth y cyngor:

Yn y flwyddyn ariannol ddiwethaf, fe wnaeth y cyngor:

• Recriwtio a hyfforddi Swyddogion Cymorth Cymunedol yr Heddlu i gefnogi gweithgareddau Campau’r Ddraig mewn ysgolion ac yn y gymuned • Diogelu cyllid i’w alluogi i gynnal rhaglen beilot i fentora hyfforddwyr. Mae gan weithgareddau awyr agored a gweithgareddau antur effaith sylweddol iawn ar hunan hyder, hunan-barch, rhyngweithio a sgiliau cyfathrebu’r rheiny sy’n cymryd rhan.

• Gynyddu nifer y wardiau â grwpiau cymdogaeth ddiogelach i 19 • Gweithio gyda chwech o landlordiaid cymdeithasol cofrestredig Torfaen a Heddlu Gwent i fynd i’r afaela ag amrywiaeth o faterion gwrthgymdeithasol • Diogelu £665,000 gan Lywodraeth Cynulliad Cymru i ymgymryd â nifer o gynlluniau diogelwch ar y ffordd gan i ddarparu llwybrau mwy diogel yn y cymunedau lleol.

Yn 2010/11, mae’r cyngor yn:

• Gwella’r amgylchedd lleol drwy orfodi mwy effeithiol yn achos tipio anghyfreithlon a gollwng sbwriel • Nodi cerbydau a gyrwyr didrwydded sy’n cael eu hurio, felly’n creu sefyllfa fwy diogel i bobl sy’n teithio mewn tacsis • Defnyddio’r cyllid o £665,000 a ddiogelwyd y llynedd i wella diogelwch ar y ffyrdd a phalmentydd, er mwyn annog mwy o bobl i gerdded a beicio.

• Gwella’r gweithgareddau hynny sydd ar gael i gadw pobl ifanc rhag ymddygiad gwrthgymdeithasol, a hynny’n cynnwys gweithgareddau awyr agored sy’n heriol, gweithgareddau yn ystod gwyliau ysgol a sesiynau chwarae • Gweithio gydag asiantaethau eraill i atal aelwydydd rhag dioddef oherwydd masnachwyr twyllodrus • Gweithio gyda phobl ifanc a ddrwgdybir o ymddygiad gwrthgymdeithasol er mwyn codi ymwybyddiaeth o fyw mewn ffordd barchus.

Page 10

ffyniannus a chynaliadwy lle mae gan bawb y cyfle i wneud eu gorau.

Mae’r cyngor wrthi’n llywio ei ail Gynllun Corfforaethol, i gychwyn yn 2011/12.

Bydd y cynllun yn adlewyrchu rôl yr aelodau etholedig o ran arwain y gymuned, ac yn sail i’r cynllun fydd safbwyntiau ystod ehangach o fudiadau ac unigolion. Fe wnaeth yr ymgyrch ‘Beth sydd o bwys i Chi?’ a gynhaliwyd yn Ebrill brofi i fod yn boblogaidd iawn ymhlith dinasyddion ac rydym wrthi’n ystyried yr adborth ar hyn o bryd, i’n cynorthwyo wrth i ni fynd ati i nodi blaenoriaethau’r cyngor am y pum mlynedd nesaf.

Yn 2010/11, mae’r cyngor yn:

Gellir gweld diweddariad 2010/11 yn llawn ar www.torfaen.gov.uk

Gwell ansawdd dysgu ac addysgu i bobl ifanc a myfyrwyr eraill

Dinasyddion o bob oedran yn dysgu’r sgiliau angenrheidiol ar gyfer cyflogaeth a’r broses o adfywio’u cymunedau lleol

Yn y flwyddyn ariannol ddiwethaf, fe wnaeth y cyngor:

Yn y flwyddyn ariannol ddiwethaf, fe wnaeth y cyngor:

• Haneri nifer y plant sy’n gadael byd addysg heb gymhwyster o unrhyw fath a lleihau nifer y plant sy’n gadael yr ysgol heb fynd ymlaen i addysg, hyfforddiant neu gyflogaeth • Parhau i ddatblygu cynlluniau i wella addysg ar draws Torfaen a dechrau’r broses o ailfodelu Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw • Diogelu caniatâd i greu ysgol £8.7miliwn, i foderneiddio a thrawsffurfio addysg ar gyfer anghenion addysgol ychwanegol • Creu 3 plaza dysgu tra thechnegol mewn tair ysgol.

• Lwyddo i ddiogelu hyd at £3.9miliwn dros y ddwy flynedd nesaf gan Gronfa Swyddi’r Dyfodol i fuddsoddi yn y gymuned leol a darparu hyd at 600 o swyddi newydd • Lansiwyd Cronfa Allweddol yr Economi Gymdeithasol i gefnogi mudiadau cymunedol a phobl sydd angen grantiau i gychwyn mentrau cymdeithasol • Diogelwyd £522,473 o arian Cronfa Gymdeithasol Ewrop i gyflwyno prosiect i helpu pobl ifanc 11-19 oed o gymunedau sipsiwn/teithwyr yn Nhorfaen ennill sgiliau newydd a chael swyddi.

Yn 2010/11, mae’r cyngor yn: • Datblygu cynllun tymor hir i sicrhau bod ei holl gyfleusterau dysgu yn diwallu anghenion y dysgwyr • Parhau i ddatblygu Campws Cymunedol Blaenafon, a fydd yn darparu gwasanaethau hamdden, addysg ac iechyd • Gwella cyfleusterau ysgol - mae ysgol newydd yn ne orllewin Cwmbrân ac ysgol gynradd gyfrwng Gymraeg â meithrin eisoes wedi agor.

Cynnydd o ran rheoli gwastraff ac ailgylchu

Yn 2010/11, mae’r cyngor yn: • Cyflwyno amrywiaeth o sgiliau a chymwysterau i wella cyfleoedd gwaith i’r rheiny sydd mewn angen • Darparu prosiectau a chefnogaeth i bobl sydd angen hyfforddiant sgiliau hanfodol a sylfaenol • Gweithio gydag unigolion sy’n economaidd anweithgar i ddymchwel rhwystrau i ddod o hyd i waith a’i gynnal, a hynny’n cynnwys gofal plant a chludiant.

Ardal lanach sy’n defnyddio ynni’n fwy effeithlon

Yn y flwyddyn ariannol ddiwethaf, fe wnaeth y cyngor:

Yn y flwyddyn ariannol ddiwethaf, fe wnaeth y cyngor:

• Ailgylchu a chompostio dros 21,000 o dunelli o wastraff • Sicrhau bod dros 3,000 o dunelli yn llai o wastraff bioddiraddadwy yn cael ei anfon i safleoedd tirlenwi • Gweithio gyda chynghorau Blaenau Gwent a Chaerffili i ystyried opsiynau i atal gwastraff bwyd a gwastraff gwyrdd (organig) rhag cael ei anfon i safle tirlenwi • Cymryd y cyfrifoldeb am gynnal y gwasanaeth ailgylchu i wella’r gwasanaeth a hybu cyfraddau ailgylchu.

• Ymgynghori ar gynlluniau i ddiffodd rhai goleuadau stryd ar draws Torfaen. Amlygwyd yr ymagwedd hon fel enghraifft o arfer da cenedlaethol • Gostwng allyriadau carbon 9.47 y cant, gan ragori ar ei darged o 15 y cant ar gyfer 2012. Fe wnaeth sefydlu cronfa effeithlonrwydd ynni a diffodd goleuadau stryd gyfraniad sylweddol • Datblygu cynllun â thargedau ar ostwng ynni, siwrneiau staff, gostwng gwastraff mewnol yr awdurdod a chynyddu dulliau ailgylchu mewn adeiladau sy’n eiddo i’r cyngor.

Yn 2010/11, mae’r cyngor yn: • Datblygu a chaffael contract organig tymor hirach gyda chynghorau Blaenau Gwent a Caerffili • Cyflwyno llwybrau gwastraff ac ailgylchu diwygiedig yn Nhorfaen • Archwilio i ffynonellau ariannu posibl ar gyfer Canolfan Ailgylchu Gwastraff Cartref newydd yng ngogledd Torfaen.

Tai – Gwell ansawdd, amrywiaeth a fforddiadwyedd Yn y flwyddyn ariannol ddiwethaf, fe wnaeth y cyngor:

• Ddatblygu 65 o dai fforddiadwy newydd yn Nhorfaen, bron i hanner cyfanswm y tai newydd yn yr ardal • Cwblhau cam un o ddatblygiad Sgwâr Blenheim sy’n costio £7miliwn a chwblhau 24 uned yn Llantarnam, drwy gytundeb adran 106 gyda chwmni Barratt Homes • Diogelu grant unigol o £800,000 i gefnogi cynllun sy’n helpu’r rheiny sy’n prynu tyˆ am y tro cyntaf.

Yn 2010/11, mae’r cyngor yn: • Rhoi Prosiect Tai Gwag ar waith, gan nodi tai gwag yn y sector preifat ac ystyried opsiynau i ddechrau eu hailddefnyddio • Diogelu tai fforddiadwy ychwanegol ar bob datblygiad tai sylweddol drwy les cynllunio.

Yn 2010/11, mae’r cyngor yn: • Gwella cynaladwyedd prosiectau adeiladu a chynnal a chadw • Gweithio ar gamau cynllunio gyda’r rheiny sy’n cyflwyno ceisiadau cynllunio er mwyn sicrhau bod eiddo sy’n cael eu hadeiladu yn defnyddio ynni’n fwy effeithlon • Diffodd goleuadau stryd i ostwng allyriadau carbon a chynhyrchu arian i gynnal gwasanaethau rheng flaen.

Lleihau digartrefedd Yn y flwyddyn ariannol ddiwethaf, fe wnaeth y cyngor: • Weithio’n llwyddiannus mewn partneriaeth gyda Thai Cymunedol Bron Afon i gyflwyno Homeseeker, sef polisi dyrannu ar y cyd sy’n helpu i ddod o hyd i gartrefi i’r rheiny sydd â’r angen fwyaf.

Yn 2010/11, mae’r cyngor yn: • Nodi ac yn dechrau cyflawni blaenoriaethau’r cynllun digartrefedd 10-mlynedd • Datblygu gwasanaeth i ddatrys problemau’n ymwneud â thai mewn cydweithrediad â phartneriaid, i ganiatáu gwell mynediad i gyngor a gwybodaeth ar dai • Gwella mynediad i gyngor a gwybodaeth i gwsmeriaid sydd wedi cofrestru ar gynllun Homeseeker Torfaen.

Ffoniwch 01495 742158 e-bost improvement@torfaen.gov.uk

Page 11

Committee meetings

Schools sustainability scheme wins top award

The meeting dates and times given below are correct at the time of publication and may be subject to additions or change.

An updated list is posted in the foyer of the Civic Centre weekly.

Agendas and minutes are available on the website at www.torfaen.gov.uk/CouncilAndDemocracy

Cabinet committee

30 November

Learning communities O&S committee

01 December

Safer communities O&S committee Cabinet (European and regional affairs) sub-committee Members’ services committee

02 December

Audit committee Resources and corporate business O&S committee

08 December

Council

14 December

07 December 07 December

08 December

Policy co-ordination and development committee 15 December Cleaner communities O&S committee

15 December

Healthier communities O&S committee

16 December

Planning committee

21 December

Learning communities O&S committee

12 January

Safer communities O&S committee

13 January

Planning committee Resources and corporate business O&S committee

18 January

Licensing committee

20 January

Cabinet (equalities) sub-committee

25 January

Ethics and standards committee

26 January

Cleaner communities O&S committee

26 January

Healthier communities O&S committee

27 January

19 January

Meet your councillor ABERSYCHAN

Every form will count Everyone can ensure the maximum amount of money is available for services next year in Torfaen – by filling in their Census form.

The Census is taken every 10 years and is arranged by an independent body.

It is then used by the government to allocate more than £100billion a year to councils and other public bodies such as the health service and the police.

Underestimating the number of people in Torfaen could lead to the borough losing out on millions of pounds of funding. In the current financial climate, it is essential a true picture of the population is collected, so Torfaen gets all the funding it should. Every form counts.

Fill in your Census form on Sunday 27 March, 2011.

01495 773737

Councillor Phil Seabourne

Councillor Ray Williams

01495 774723

Councillor Seabourne holds surgeries on the first Saturday of every month 10.30am - 12pm Fairhill Methodist Church

Councillor Wayne Tomlinson

01495 774953

BLAENAVON

Councillor Jeff Rees

Councillor Stuart Evans

01495 792335

Councillor Brian Whitcombe

01495 790704

Councillors Evans and Whitcombe share a surgery on the first Monday of the month at 7pm, alternating between Blaenavon Workmen’s Hall, Garn-yr-Erw Welfare Hall and Forgeside Community Hall.

Councillor Tom Huish

01495 791822/ 07980682669

01495 757288

07881 855553

Councillor Cross holds surgeries on the second Saturday of the month 10am - 12pm Coed Eva & Hollybush Community Centre

Councillor Richard Clark

01633 480083

Councillor Sarah Richards MBE

01633 485495

Councillors Clark and Richards share a surgery on the second Saturday of every month 11am - 12pm in Glaslyn Court

Councillor Marlene Thomas Councillor Thomas holds surgeries on the second Saturday of every month 10am - 11am Woodland Road Social Centre, Bowls Annex

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01633 485067

ST DIALS

Councillor Graham Smith

07527 963774

Councillor Julianna Biggs

01633 864902

Councillor Elizabeth Haynes

01633 870119

The three New Inn councillors share a surgery on the first Saturday of every month 10am - 12pm Learning Centre, The Highway.

Councillor Cynthia Beynon MBE

01495 751740/ 07806 617156

Councillor Norma Parrish

01495 763067

Councillor Catherine Lewis Councillor Bob Wellington

01633 868402

Councillor Kathleen Williams

07817 609419

Councillor Graham holds surgeries on the first Saturday of every month 11am - 1pm Llantarnam Leisure Centre 01633 770349/ 07530 385376

Councillor Veronica German

Councillor John Marshall

01495 755812

Councillor Lewis Jones

01495 756950

Councillor Ron Burnett

01633 874157

Councillor Alastair Cunnington JP

01633 874631

Councillor Colette Thomas

01633 482104

Councillor Aneurin James

01633 864736/ 07980 682478

Councillor Brian Mawby

01633 484948

Councillor Thomas holds surgeries on the first Saturday of every month 10am - 11.30am Hollybush Community Centre Last Friday of every month 2pm - 3.30pm Cocker Avenue Community Hall

The three councillors share a surgery on the first Saturday of every month 10.30am - 12pm Mount Pleasant Hall

UPPER CWMBRAN

PONTNEWYNYDD Councillor Ron Jones

01495 750238 07852 268419

SNATCHWOOD

01633 482685

TREVETHIN

01633 863189

Councillor Wildgust holds surgeries on the last Friday of the month 11am-1pm St Matthews Church Hall

07957 995603

Councillor Haynes will hold a surgery on Saturday 18 December at 2pm-4pm at the Cockerel Hall, Greenmeadow. Phone for details.

Councillor Peter Cathcart

Councillor Fred Wildgust

LLANYRAFON SOUTH Councillor Margaret Pead

01495 753778

PONTYPOOL

Councillor Williams holds surgeries on the second Saturday of the month 10am - 11.30am Llantarnam Church Hall 12pm - 1.30pm Oakfield and Court Farm Community Hall 2pm - 3.30pm Cwmbran Brass Band Hall, Henllys Way

01495 750019

TWO LOCKS

PONTNEWYDD

Councillor Wellington holds surgeries on the first Saturday of the month 9.30am - 11am Greenmeadow & St Dials Community Hall, 11am -12pm Thornhill Community Centre

LLANYRAFON NORTH

CROESYCEILIOG SOUTH

01495 750327

01633 766557/ 07948 373090

Councillor Paul Williams

CROESYCEILIOG NORTH

Councillor Neil Mason

Councillor Raymond Mills

Councillors Beynon and Parrish hold surgeries on the second Saturday of every month 11am - 12pm Griffithstown Labour Hall alternating with Sebastopol Labour Hall

Councillor Maria Graham

ST CADOCS AND PENYGARN 01495 758559

PANTEG

Councillor Rees holds surgeries on the last Saturday of every month 10am - 12pm Fairwater Leisure Centre

and Torfaen Forest Education Initiative to develop outdoor spaces for learning.

The executive member for children and young people, councillor Mary Barnett, said: “Learning in the outdoors invokes a sense of excitement and wonder in children. It helps to motivate them to enjoy their education and it can also help to increase attendance, attainment and behaviour.

“Outdoor education plays an important role in helping our teachers deliver the Foundation Phase in schools.

It is also great fun, which is an essential ingredient of a happy childhood. I am delighted our work has been highlighted as environmental best practice.”

Councillor David James

07517 467262

LLANTARNAM

COED EVA Councillor Fiona Cross

01633 863744

GREENMEADOW

BRYNWERN Councillor Brian Matthews

01495 757738/ 07964 792732

FAIRWATER

Councillor Gwyneira Clark

Torfaen council’s community focused schools team received the award for its work within schools raising awareness of environmental issues.

The Green Organisation, an independent environment group, runs the awards to reward and promote environmental best practice around the world. Torfaen received the award at the House of Commons for helping groups like Fairwater Community Links

NEW INN

CWMYNYSCOY Councillor Doug Jones

A Torfaen scheme is on track to represent the UK in the European Business Awards for the Environment, by scooping a Green Apple Award for environmental best practice.

Councillor Tom Gould Councillor Gould holds surgeries on the third Saturday of every month 11am - 12pm Emmaus Chapel, Pontnewynydd

01495 757165

Councillor Mary Barnett

01633 484002

Councillor John Cunningham MBE KSG

01633 862050

Councillor Robert Jones

01633 838658

The three councillors share a surgery on the first Saturday of every month 10am - 12pm Thornhill Community Association (1Cllr) Housing Office, Maendy Square (2 Cllrs) WAINFELIN Councillor Mike Jeremiah Councillor Jeremiah holds surgeries on the first Saturday of every month 10am - 11am St Johns 11.10am - 12.10pm Tranch Hall

For the latest jobs, visit www.torfaen.gov.uk/jobsandcareers

01495 755830

Second sustainability success

The second Torfaen Sustainability Week was a great success, with hundreds of people taking part in events across the borough.

The annual event encourages people to live their lives in a more sustainable fashion, with events happening throughout Torfaen over the seven days.

Again, the motto of the week was ‘Changing by Degrees’ – a statement highlighting how, by making minor adjustments to the way people live, everyone can help reduce consumption of the earth’s resources and atmospheric emissions.

The leader of Torfaen council, councillor Bob Wellington, said: “I was really happy to see so

many people enjoying Torfaen Sustainability Week. Once again, it was a big success and I hope it inspired people to embrace sustainable living.

“Even a few small changes to a person’s lifestyle can have a substantial impact on how sustainable their lives are.

“Not only can they help protect the environment for generations to come, they can also save people money.”

Events held during the week included a sustainability conference, a LIFE Station open day (pictured left), a business breakfast, a local producers market, nature walks and woodland conservation activities. More information can be viewed at www.torfaen.gov. uk/sustainability

Torfaen’s best kept village

Allotment wins top award

Ponthir has been officially named as one of the best kept villages in Gwent.

It was named as the winner of the 1,001-4,999 residents category of the 2010 Gwent Best Kept Village competition, run by Gwent Association of Voluntary Organisations.

Members of Ponthir Community Council worked hard to improve the village, with the installation of six new benches, a new notice board and the planting of hundreds of flowers.

“It gave us great pleasure to win the award,” said the chairperson of Ponthir Community Council, Jennifer Nancarrow.

“We worked with the Ponthir Women’s Institute and I would like to thank them for all their help.

“I would also like to thank the staff at Torfaen council for making sure the grass in the village was always cut.

“The judge also commented that the recycling site was the best she had ever seen.”

Green fingered enthusiasts at Cold Barn Allotments have gained an international diploma for their work with budding gardeners.

The diploma was awarded to the Trevethin organisation in recognition of the efforts of its members in working with and supporting young people. Currently, more than 50 local young people are involved with the allotment.

It was given this prestigious award by the Office International du Coin de Terre et des Jardins Familiaux - the European re-groupment of national allotment and leisure garden federations. The organisation is affiliated to more than three million leisure gardeners and leisure garden families.

Every year, it presents a small number of diplomas for special projects put forward by all member countries.

Sustainability index for children Make money from your home with Feed-in Tariffs A new online tool allows children in Torfaen to measure how sustainable their lives are.

The ‘Green Grin-o-Meter: Children’s take on good lives that don’t cost the Earth’ was launched as part of Torfaen Sustainability Week.

It calculates scores for health, carbon footprint and happiness,

as well as advice on how they can improve their score. Visit www.greengrin.co.uk

Did you know your home could earn you money?

Since April, Feed-in Tariffs (FITs) have been available to households and communities that generate their own electricity from renewable or low carbon sources, like solar electricity panels or wind turbines.

The scheme guarantees a minimum payment for all

electricity generated, as well as a separate payment for the electricity sent to national grid.

These payments are in addition to the bill savings made by using the electricity generated on-site.

The tariffs available and the process for receiving them vary, depending on when the technology was installed and who installed it, but you can get

up to 41p per kWh. For more information on Feed-in Tariffs, visit www. energysavingtrust.org.uk

Visit www.torfaensustainability.co.uk or www.greengrin.co.uk

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Help to keep your home warm With temperatures plummeting and the nights drawing in, help is available to people struggling to keep their homes warm.

It is vital for residents’ health that they stay warm, especially older people, as a lack of warmth can make underlying health problems worse.

Cold Weather Payment If the temperature drops to or below freezing (0C) for seven consecutive days, you may be eligible for a Cold Weather Payment of £25 for each qualifying week between 1 November and 31 March. You don’t need to apply - you’ll get the payment automatically as long as you qualify.

Home Energy Efficiency Scheme Grants up to £3,600 are available to eligible householders to help make their homes more energy efficient. Telephone free on 0800 316 2815 or apply online at www.heeswales.co.uk

Winter Fuel Payment This benefit for people over 60 varies, but can up to £400 for couples. It should be paid automatically – if you don’t receive it and think you should, call 08459 151 515 or go to www.thepensionservice.gov.uk

Utility companies If you are over 60, have a disability, or are spending 10 per cent of your income on your energy bills, you may be eligible for help from your energy company. Contact the telephone number on your bill for more information.

Benefits check The Pension Service (0845 60 60 2 65) will visit people in their homes to check their entitlement to a range of benefits, as well as providing advice at Torfaen Customer Care Centres in Cwmbran and Pontypool.

Energy saving advice For free, independent energy saving advice call 0800 512 012, visit www. energysavingwales.org.uk or call the council’s energy

efficiency section on 01495 742898.

Reduce energy use By reducing your energy use, you will limit carbon emissions and save money.

Here are some energy saving tips: • Insulate your hot water tank • Use a timer for your immersion heater • Only boil the amount of water you need • Don’t leave fridge or freezer doors open for a long time • Defrost your freezer often • Use saucepan lids when cooking • Turn off lights when rooms aren’t occupied • Use energy efficient bulbs • Turn off electrical equipment such as your TV - don’t leave on standby • Close curtains at dusk • Insulate windows and letter boxes to stop draughts indoors.

Salt levels raised to tackle winter weather

Torfaen council has almost doubled its salt supply in preparation for winter.

Last year, the UK saw the most severe winter in 30 years which led to massive salt shortages in Torfaen, despite the council spending £74,141 on salt. However, the council has already spent £92,199 to refill its salt barns and a further £68,400, in collaboration with its neighbours, on emergency salt supplies.

The council has also invested in three new weather stations to improve weather forecasting and decisions around salt allocation.

These are located at Llanelly Hill in Blaenavon, the A472 at Crumlin Road and Jerusalem Lane, New Inn. More staff have also been trained to make sure that adequate cover is available.

The executive member for neighbourhood services, councillor John Cunningham, said: “As a council we have learnt a lot from last year.

The weather caused havoc all over the country and that is why we have taken these measures and trained more staff in preparation for this year.”

Oes gyda chi diddordeb yn yr Iaith Gymraeg

Are you interested in the Welsh language?

Mae Menter Iaith Blaenau Gwent, Torfaen a Mynwy yn fudiad gwirfoddol sydd yn hyrwyddo’r Iaith Gymraeg a Treftadaeth i’r cyhoedd a fusnesau ym Mlaenau Gwent, Torfaen and Mynwy.

Menter Iaith Blaenau Gwent, Torfaen a Mynwy is a voluntary, communityfocused initiative promoting the use of the Welsh language and its heritage in the community.

Ein nod yw hybu a chynyddu’r defnydd o’r Gymraeg ym mhob agwedd o fywyd cymunedol.

Mae’r fenter yn cynnig gweithgareddau, gwybodaeth, a chyngor i blant, phobol ifanc, oedolion a rhieni sydd yn siaradwyr neu’n cefnogwyr o’r Iaith. Mae Menter Iaith BGTM yn darparu gwasanaeth e-bost sy’n hyrwyddo gweithgareddau a digwyddiadau cymdeithasol trwy gyfrwng y Gymraeg i blant, phobol ifanc, oedolion a theuluoedd ym Mlaenau Gwent, Torfaen and Mynwy.

Gallwch elwa o wasanaeth E-chlysur yn rhad ac am ddim.

Bydd y wybodaeth yn gyfrinachol ac yn eisio i Fenter Iaith BGTM yn unig.

Its aim is to promote and increase the use of the Welsh language in all aspects of community life. Menter Iaith offers activities, information and advice for people who are Welsh speakers or who support the Welsh language.

Menter Iaith has created an email database to promote social events and activities through the medium of Welsh for people in Blaenau Gwent, Torfaen and Monmouthshire.

You can benefit from this service for free. For more information fill in the form opposite. The information will remain in the hands of Menter Iaith BGTM only.

Enw / Name: E-bost / Email: Tref / Town: Hoffwn dderbyn y wybodaeth trwy gyfrwng / I would like to receive the information in: Cymraeg / Welsh  Saesneg / English  Dwyieithog / Bilingual  Oedran / Age 0-3  4-11  12-18 

18+ 

Pa weithgareddau sydd o ddiddordeb i chi What activities are of interest to you ? 

Digwyddiadau i’r Teulu / Family events



Nosweithiau Cymdeithasol / Social evenings

 Grwpiau a Clybiau i blant a phobol ifanc / Groups and clubs for children and young people 

Dysgu Cymraeg / Learning Welsh

Dychwelyd eich ffurflen erbyn 20/12/10 i’r cyfeiriad isod i fod mewn siawns o ennill tocyn £50 / Return this form by 20/12/10 to the address below to be in with a chance to win a £50 voucher.

Menter Iaith Blaenau Gwent, Torfaen a Mynwy Adeiladau Portland, Stryd Masnach - Pont-y-pwˆl, Torfaen, NP4 6JS Portland Buildings, Commercial St, Pontypool, Torfaen, NP4 6JS

Page 14

For energy efficiency advice, call 01495 742898

School plans Torfaen welcomes the submitted Draft proposals for a £266million school transformation programme are being sent to the Welsh Assembly Government (WAG) and the Welsh Local Government Association for a decision on funding.

Torfaen council’s cabinet decided the plans, which could deliver a mixture of new, extended and refurbished schools, should be submitted.

WAG has insisted all Welsh councils set out their plans to tackle the costly issues of ageing and unfit school buildings, as well as surplus places.

The plans must also ensure councils have the facilities to support the delivery of a curriculum fit for the 21st century and are flexible to meet the changing needs of the future.

The draft proposals have been put together just as the council and its partners start work on the next phase of proposals to transform post 16 education in the area. Together, both sets of proposals will provide a more solid foundation for learners to achieve their full potential.

Councillor Mary Barnett, executive member for children and young people, said: “There will be a number of events in early 2011 in which people can get involved in, and we look forward to hearing people’s comments and suggestions on a range of options.”

men from the Ministry

NEWS IN BRIEF Newsletter for disabled children

Torfaen’s first newsletter for the families and carers of disabled children has been launched. Pick up a copy from Customer Care Centres or visit www.torfaen.gov.uk/healthandsocialcare

Coffee morning raises £488

This year’s Macmillan coffee morning and raffle at County Hall raised £488.46 to improve the lives of people affected by cancer.

Aid needed for Christmas appeal

Torfaen’s social workers have launched their annual Christmas appeal to provide start-up packs to people escaping domestic abuse and homelessness. Toiletries, toys and children’s nightwear are urgently needed. Take items to the Disabled People’s Service, County Hall or any Customer Care Centre by 14 December.

Support for young carers Torfaen council welcomed a delegation of 23 members of the Chinese Ministry of Education recently.

The delegation from the Education Equipment Research Institute visited Torfaen to gain an insight into the innovative direction the county has taken in creating technology-rich environments in schools.

The leader of Torfaen

council, councillor Bob Wellington, said: “It’s mind blowing to think a country as globally influential as China is visiting Torfaen to enhance its learning and to devise the Chinese national strategy for primary education.”

The delegation visited the Cisco academy in Blaenavon, the ICT plaza at Abersychan School, the teacher-training plaza in County Hall and the Shared Resource Centre in Blaenavon.

Take Control of your career

Do you want to change your job or gain new skills and qualifications?

If so, Take Control sessions offer job search support, qualifications and skills guidance, CV writing, help with application forms, interview technique training and advice on what you can do to take control of your future.

Sessions are held at the Powerstation in St Dials, Thornhill Communities First, Neighbourhood Learning Centre in Penygarn, the Pavilion in Blaenavon, the Life Station in Trevethin, Croesyceiliog CEC and the Settlement in Pontypool.

For more information, call 01633 647743 or email bridgesintowork@torfaen.gov.uk

Waste site visit inspires future recyclers Mini recyclers from Pontymoile primary school were given a tour of Torfaen council’s sorting depot.

At the recycling plant on Ty Coch Industrial Estate, the youngsters listened to a talk on recycling before watching the process in action. They watched Torfaen staff bring thousands of bottles, cans and tins to the site where they were crushed.

The pupils found out how the recycling was collected, sat in the front of one of the council’s recycling vans and even found out the weight of their group by

standing on the weighbridge.

Torfaen council’s education officer Teresa Pearce said: “Teaching children about recycling is great, but getting them out of the classroom gets the message across. The pupils really enjoyed it.”

Pontymoile deputy head Sarah Truelove said: “It was a fantastic experience. We’ve got a Green Flag at the school so the children already do their bit for recycling, but to watch everything in action was really good for them.”

To organise a school visit to the recycling plant, contact 01495 766794.

Torfaen’s Young Carers Service supports children and young people aged 18 and under, who may be providing care and support for a parent, brother or sister at home. If you know a young carer who needs support, contact 01495 762200.

Race to Infinity for broadband

You can help the race for super-fast broadband in Torfaen.

BT is asking households and businesses across Wales to demonstrate local demand for super-fast fibre broadband by taking part in a nationwide survey, run as a competition called the Race to Infinity. The race runs until 31 December at www.bt.com/racetoinfinity and will help BT identify areas where fibre broadband demand is high.

Stroke survivors can seek support

A new support group for stroke survivors has begun in Newport.

The group, run by the Stroke Association, is held in St Julian’s Methodist Church every Wednesday morning, 10.30am-12.30pm.

Stroke is the third biggest cause of death and the leading cause of adult disability in Wales. For details, call 01495 758268.

Consultation on Torfaen plans

Have your say on what happens in your community and Torfaen as a whole, by taking part in a consultation.

Four draft plans – covering health, social care and well-being, community safety, children and young people, and community – have been prepared and your views are sought. Consultation runs until 24 December. To read the plans or complete the questionnaire, go to www.torfaen.gov.uk/consultations. For more information, contact PSSU@torfaen.gov.uk or 01495 766255.

Building regulations guide available

A guide to extending your home is now available.

Your home is probably one of your biggest assets and over time you may need to adapt it to your changing needs. The new guide offers advice on the types of alterations that require building regulation approval, but it is not a substitute for professional advice. Copies of the guide are available at most council receptions or a copy can be sent to you. Call 01633 647300.

Dog fouling consultation

A public consultation into whether the council should introduce dog control orders is being held this month.

Dog fouling is one of the biggest causes of complaint for residents, so the council is increasing its efforts to tackle dog owners who allow their dogs to be a nuisance to others. It is looking at whether it should introduce dog control orders. To help decide if and where these new powers should apply, a public consultation will be held in December. To take part in the consultation, visit www.torfaen.gov.uk/EnvironmentAndPlanning To report a dog fouling problem, contact 01633 647621/22

VAT rate to increase in January

The standard rate of VAT increases to 20 per cent on 4 January, 2011. VAT is a government tax you pay when you buy most goods and services, including those from the council.

Recycle Torfaen Talks - pop it into your black box

Page 15

Helping local businesses start-up and expand One of the major challenges to business development is where to find expert and impartial advice to start and grow your business.

Torfaen council’s business support team can help you. It knows what businesses and social enterprises need and offers a range of services, including business planning, premises location, funding, marketing and a whole range of other support.

Business grants are also available through the team.

The Local Investment Fund grant (LIF), provided through the European Regional Development Fund scheme,

has proved an important source of support for local small and medium-size enterprises (SME).

Since April 2009, £188,000 of LIF funding has been given to 32 local businesses, creating 47 jobs and safeguarding a further 353. The team has also helped more than 380 businesses with advice.

One of the business support team’s most successful ventures is the Technium Springboard at Llantarnam Park in Cwmbran (pictured above right). Created to increase the number of quality, technology-based businesses starting up in the area, the centre joined the Technium network in 2009. It is unique

All boxed up and ready to go Diamond Box (Wales) Ltd, based in Pontypool, manufactures corrugated packaging.

It also offers storage and packing fulfilment for a variety of clients in the SME manufacturing sector, including a growing internetbased postal packing sector.

It received a grant of £1,598 for a security alarm/entrance system.

The assistance created one new job.

Network locally with business club Businesses in Torfaen are eligible to join the thriving club, Torfaen Business Voice.

Supported by the business support team, Torfaen Business Voice provides members with an annual programme of meetings and networking

Page 16

events where professionals offer advice and guidance.

Members also receive a quarterly magazine full of news, business tips and useful information to help businesses grow.

To find out more, visit www.torfaenbusiness.co.uk

to the area, as it offers small to medium businesses the opportunity to develop stateof-the-art technology and benefit from professional, inhouse business support.

It encourages innovative, high-growth entrepreneurs and now has 26 tenant businesses, employing 132 people.

A further 31 young technology companies have migrated from the incubation facilities provided since the centre was launched in 2006, creating a further 127 jobs during their time in residence.

For more information on the business support team and how it can help you, call 01633 648644 or email info@torfaenbusiness.co.uk

Keep rolling, rolling, rolling

Sweet success for Allsorts Allsorts Training is a new business based in Trevethin.

Established in 1988 and based in Cwmbran, KV Rollers Ltd currently employs 28 people.

It makes rubber rollers, mainly for use in the print industry.

Due to increased sales, the company needed a new Hyundai Computer Numerical Control lathe. It received a grant of £5,000 towards the purchase price of £18,000. The investment has created one new job and safeguarded the existing workforce.

Location, location, location

One of Torfaen’s strongest assets for businesses is the wide range of properties available.

As the area embraces change, new and diverse business accommodation is providing the environment for future success, such as Llantarnam Park in Cwmbran and the Gilchrist Thomas Estate in Blaenavon.

For a list of business premises available within Torfaen, visit www.torfaenbusiness.co.uk

www.torfaenbusiness.co.uk

It was set up by Stephen Gregory, after he was made redundant as a health and safety manager.

The company aims to provide support to organisations looking to achieve accreditations in health and safety through face-to-face, direct training and e-learning opportunities for staff.

Allsorts Training was awarded a grant of £1,531.57 to help towards the purchase of equipment, including a laptop, projector, stationary and e-learning software, plus the development of a new website.

It has also created one job.

Stephen said: “The Local Investment Fund Grant was a fundamental investment.

Without it, I couldn’t have set my business up so quickly.”

www.techiumspringboard.co.uk