£9.2m investment for Nottinghamshire schools

The latest programme of school infrastructure improvements worth £9.2m has been unveiled by Nottinghamshire County Council

The investment is part of the council’s school building improvement work for 2023/4, which will be designed and delivered by Arc Partnership, a joint venture between the council and SCAPE.

Twenty primary and infant schools will benefit from a range of improvements, dependent on the needs for each school. The works will include roof replacements, drainage improvements as well as energy-efficient lighting and boiler upgrades.

Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Asset Management, Councillor Keith Girling, said: “It’s vital we invest in our schools' infrastructure. Young people deserve to study and learn in buildings which are fit-for-purpose.

“This latest programme of works will also help school buildings be more energy efficient and save on bills.”

Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, Councillor Tracey Taylor, added: "This investment is all part of our long-term commitment to improving school buildings. We want to make sure young people have the right type of learning environment where they can thrive.”

While the council has a duty to maintain school infrastructure, the day-today maintenance tasks are the responsibility of the respective schools.

This collaborative approach helps to ensure that schools can address immediate maintenance needs and allow the council to focus on larger infrastructure projects and improvements.

Dan Maher, Managing Director at Arc Partnership, said:

“We are proud to be working closely with the council to deliver this programme and ensure real value is provided on each of the projects.

“99 per cent of this work will be carried out by local contractors, which is good news for the local economy.” Planned improvements includes:

Intake Farm Primary, Mansfield: £1.2 million investment will strengthen the roof structure and replace the roof covering and improve insulation, replacement of suspended ceilings, upgraded LED lighting and asbestos abatement. Replacement of damaged external wall tiling.

Berry Hill Primary, Mansfield: £52,040 will replace sections of the roof covering to help reduce water leaks.

Northfield Primary, Mansfield: £475,000 to replace original steel section single glazed windows and doors with modern double glazed aluminium units and insulated panels.

Newlands Junior, Clipstone: £17,930 to replace an internal wall plasterboard within a classroom.

Abbey Gates, Ravenshead:

£37,947 investment will remove blockages, replace pipes and re-alignment of drains that run under the path leading from the school to Vernon Crescent and to re-lay the path.

Leen Mills Primary, Hucknall: £80,000 investment will repair mobile classrooms, including replace damage roof deck, facias and steps to fire exit route.

Edgewood Primary, Hucknall: £356,208 will transform the current redundant indoor pool into a dining area with break out space, including replacement cladding to the sports hall.

Annesley Primary, Annesley Woodhouse: £517,980 will upgrade the building infrastructure, including a new, wired fire alarm system, upgraded emergency lighting, and energy-efficient lighting.

Coddington Primary, near Newark: £106,810 investment for the removal of old canopies and installation of new canopies. Westdale Infants,

Mapperley: £1.92 million for roof repairs, new and upgraded lighting, replacement suspended ceilings, improved fire safety systems and appropriate asbestos removal.

Bramcote Hills Primary, Bramcote: £815,100 for roof replacement including improved insulation and guttering.

Eskdale Junior, Beeston: £273,920 will replace the boiler with a high efficiency condensing type, improving efficiency and reducing CO2 emissions. Also replacing the control system and installing a new gas leak detection system.

Albany Junior, Stapleford: £200,000 will provide a new roof, ensuring a safe and comfortable learning environment for students.

Lady Bay Primary, Lady Bay: £220,836 will replace a problematic boiler with an energy efficient gas replacement.

James Peacock Infant, Ruddington: £1.18 million will upgrade the building infrastructure, replace the flat roof covering and insulation, and improve the environmental performance of the building.

Kinoulton Primary: £542,990 will include roof repairs, new ceilings and lighting.

Muskham Primary, North Muskham: £377,010 to help prevent flooding, including improvements to drainage and resurfacing of the car park and playground.

Beckingham Primary school: (Bassetlaw) £400,000 to help with damp issues in the annex and help create a healthier space for learning.

Misterton Primary, Misterton: (Bassetlaw) £118,133 will help replace the fire escape stairs, ensuring a safe evacuation route for students and staff.

Rampton Primary, Rampton, near Retford: £300,000 investment to replace oil boilers with a low carbon energy efficient alternative, ensuring a warm and comfortable environment for staff and students.

Losing a loved one is an incredibly challenging experience, and navigating the aftermath can be overwhelming. If you find yourself grappling with grief and uncertainty, this comprehensive guide is here to provide support and guidance for readers in the UK. We offer practical steps, emotional advice, and a deeper understanding of the grieving process to help you through this difficult time.

Allow Yourself to Grieve

Grief is a natural and individual process. It is important to acknowledge your emotions and allow yourself to grieve in your own way. Give yourself permission to feel a range of emotions, such as sadness, anger, confusion, and even relief. Understand that there is no right or wrong way to grieve, and everyone’s journey is unique. Surround yourself with a supportive network of family and friends who can offer a listening ear or professional grief counseling if needed.

Informing the Authorities

When a loved one passes away, it is necessary to inform the relevant authorities. Register the death with the local Registrar of Births, Deaths, and Marriages within five days. The funeral director can guide you through this process, providing necessary paperwork and assistance. They will also arrange for the transportation and care of your loved one’s body. The death certificate obtained from the Registrar will be needed for various administrative purposes.

Funeral Arrangements

Funeral planning can be an emotionally taxing task, but it provides an opportunity to honor your loved one’s memory. Decide whether you want a burial or cremation and make arrangements accordingly. Funeral directors can offer guidance, support, and practical help during this time. They will assist in organizing the funeral service, coordinating with the venue, providing transport, and helping you select caskets, urns, or headstones. Consider involving family and friends in the planning process, as their input and presence can provide comfort and solace.

Handling Financial Matters

Notify the relevant organizations about your loved one’s passing, including banks, insurance companies, and pension providers. Obtain multiple copies of the death certificate, as it will be required for various administrative purposes. Contact the executor of the will or seek legal advice to ensure all financial matters are appropriately handled. Gather information about your loved one’s assets, debts, and outstanding bills. Consider reaching out to a professional financial advisor to help you navigate the complex landscape of financial matters during this challenging time.

Seeking Support Grieving is a complex journey, and seeking support is crucial. In the UK, there are numerous resources available to help you cope.

Support groups, bereavement counseling, and helplines like Cruse Bereavement Care can provide solace and understanding during this challenging time. These organizations offer a safe space to express your feelings, share experiences with others who have lost loved ones, and learn coping mechanisms. Consider reaching out to local charities or religious organizations, as they often offer support tailored to your specific needs. Additionally, online communities and forums can provide a sense of connection and support, allowing you to connect with others who are going through a similar experience.

Losing a loved one is a deeply personal experience, and there is no right or wrong way to navigate through it. Remember to take care of yourself physically, emotion- ally, and mentally. Seek solace in your support network, the available resources, and professional assistance when needed. In time, healing will come, and you will find your own path toward acceptance and hope. Remember, you are not alone, and there is support available to guide you through your grief. May the memories of your loved one provide comfort and strength as you