I Need Somebody � Job Clubs – Already SUPPORTED � Training for the Young – Already SUPPORTED � Disabled People Back to Work – Already SUPPORTED

Taking part couldn’t be easier www.lancashire.gov.uk/ corporate/vision/

A 4-star council Awarded top marks by the Audit Commission June 2007

Providing • education • highways • trading standards • social services ELEVATE HAPPY FAMILIES STARS OF FREEDOM Boost your Parents like £25m pounds to tackle backyard what they see crime and nuisance Page 3 Page 5 See page 3

I need somebody Job clubs – already SUPPORTED Training for the young – already SUPPORTED Disabled people back to work – already SUPPORTED

THE world of Got a good idea – GET SUPPORTED at 01772 551888 work can be exciting – one or www.lancashire.gov.uk/grants_for_growth/ group of cheerlead- HUNDREDS of thousands of place thanks to our funding. That has ers, backed by LCDL’s pounds are available to help helped young people to learn building skills that have turned a derelict garage VENUES Grants for Growth, is to people help others. into a youth centre and it has helped job That’s the opportunity being made clubs to give advice and support to people appear on Simon available by a Grants for Growth looking to return to work. July 9 – 10:30-2:30 series of events which aim to create a “These events will help establish a net- St Augustin’s Centre, Cowell’s new network of helpers across the county. work of existing Grants for Growth recipi- talent show. Grants for Growth, jointly funded by ents to form, so that they can learn and St Austin’s Place, Preston Lancashire County Council and the help each other in the future and, at the Shell’s Belle’s won a place European Social Fund, involves cash sup- same time, tell others how they can bene- port to help people get back to work. A fit from Grants for Growth.” July 27 – 10:30-2:30 at the London finals after travelling roadshow over the summer The summer roadshows will be held The Globe, St James Square, could be your chance to contribute. across Lancashire where those who auditioning for the show The Lancashire County Developments have received a grant can tell those who Accrington Ltd (LCDL) scheme already helps more want a grant how it can help them help in Manchester. The road than 300 projects – and thousands of indi- others. viduals – overcome the setbacks in life The events will be held in easily accessi- August 6 – 10:30-2:30 to possible stardom is that prevent people from living a full life. ble venues. It is hoped to distribute the West Lancashire Investment Grants of up to £6,000 are awarded to entire fund to hundreds of new projects exciting – but the groups or individuals for projects that helping people back into work. Centre, Maple View, White Burnley group’s day- either create employment or move people The events will be heavily publicised in Moss Business Park, in to employment through training or vol- the local media and will be held in West to-day activities actu- unteering Lancashire, East Lancashire, Morecambe Skelmersdale County Councillor Niki Penney, LCDL and Preston. So if you are a voluntary, ally involve preparing chair, said: “I urge anyone who wants to community or faith sector organisation or help others to come along to these events an individual passionate about your com- September 19 – 10:30-2:30 young people for life. to see how Grants for Growth funding can munity and would like to attend please The Platform, Central help them. phone the Grants for Growth team on Full story p5 “Already over 300 such schemes are in 01772 551888 for more information. Promenade, Morecambe

A cassette version of Vision is now available for visually impaired people from Galloway’s Society for the Blind by calling 01772 744148

The presence of promotional leaflets delivered inside Vision does not imply Lancashire County Council endorsement. YOUR LANCASHIRE: A PLACE WHERE EVERYONE MATTERS 2 June 2007 Providing • nurseries • pedestrian crossings www.lancashire.gov.uk 300 Visions of success Ask Shirley for blind Don’t know who to contact when you need help? Are you readers baffled by bureaucracy? Ring Shirley on 0845 0530000 or email Shirley on [email protected]

IF you are having problems getting hold of someone to help, Lancashire County Council has staff trained and willing to assist. Sometimes you just can’t think who to ask - and this is where Vision’s Shirley comes in. Shirley answers all the letters she receives and some will feature on this page. Others may take a while as Shirley will seek responses from other council teams. Shirley is not able to offer legal advice.

am planning on getting Transport help myself a secondhand bicycle. UPON request: Galloways’ volunteers record Mrs S from Cliviger writes: Is there anywhere that I 300 copies of Vision each month. Linda Wright am a 78 year-old widow can find out about cycle is pictured demonstrating some of the items I who can no longer drive routes in Lancashire? available in Galloways’ sight advice centre. and am finding it hard to MORE and more blind people are keep appointments. hat an excellent idea. I have tried to persevere W Whether you are looking for being helped by Lancashire County with taxis but haven’t found cycle routes linking attrac- Council services with tapes, Braille – them very reliable. I also tive villages on quiet lanes, cycle and a variety of “talking” devices. find that they drive very fast paths on disused railway lines or More than 300 people each month now and on occasions this has rugged off-road tracks across ask for a tape-recorded copy of Vision, up made me too sick to be treat- remote moorland, Lancashire from 12 three years ago, 106 two years ed by the dentist. has lots to offer you. ago and 196 this time last year. Are there any volunteer Leaflets and lists of some of The audio version of Vision is only one drivers in my area. the main cycle routes in of a number of services for blind people Lancashire can be found at that Lancashire ommunicars operate within www.lancashire.gov.uk/envi County Council pro- your area and are supported ronment/cycling/countryside duces with help from ONE of the C by Lancashire County There are also many other the volunteers at charity’s Council and Burnley, Pendle and handy leaflets to download such Galloway’s Society main fundraisers Rossendale Council for as, “Choosing the Right Bike” for the Blind. is the annual guid- Voluntary Service. and “Cycle Maintenance”. The charity’s 220 ed walk across Your local co-ordinator can be If you don’t have access to the helpers also provide Morecambe Bay. contacted 10am-3pm Monday to internet, publications and more leaflets on things The eight-mile Friday on 01282 412096. information may be obtained such as bus travel – sponsored walk – More information including from county information centres. and record 3,500 on both 23 and 24 how to become a volunteer driv- tapes per week of June – will be led er and also contact telephone On the buses newspapers and by Cedric numbers for many other areas in community and Robinson MBE, Lancashire can be found at the Miss L from Lancaster writes: church newsletters. the Queen’s community transport website: am on benefits and my The Penwortham- Appointed Guide. www.lancashire-community I daughter is due to start based volunteers Further details: transport.co.uk high school in September. also provide items 01772 744148, Will she qualify for a free bus such as talking visit www.gal Springclean help pass to get her to and from FRIENDLY people are on hand at household waste recycling centres (see microwaves, talking loways.org.uk/ school? If so, how do I apply “Springclean help”). clocks, large-but- main/pages/ Mrs G from Grimsargh writes: and when? toned phones, watch- gtnews.html or have some general house- and how do I make an a further 12 months if the course es that can be read email kevin.loner hold waste that needs to ligibility for free school travel appointment to register? includes some practical work by touch – even talk- gan@galloways I be taken to a tip. E is not income-based. experience. ing weighing scales. .org.uk Where is my nearest site As a general guide the child t is a legal requirement to You would not have to make The charity and will I need a permit? must live in Lancashire, be trav- I register your baby within 42 any repayments during the peri- receives no help from the taxman, so vol- elling two miles or more if aged days from the date of birth. od of learning covered by the unteers must work at full stretch to help our nearest Household under 8, three miles or more if To make an appointment to loan. The Department for Galloway’s 6,500 “customers”. Waste Recycling Centre is aged over 8 and attending the register your baby please ring Education and Skills pays inter- Cassette versions of Vision are avail- Y based in Longridge. nearest suitable school. Lancashire County Council’s est on the loan during the period able by ringing 01772 744148. The centre is best accessed The child’s age, religion and Customer Service Centre on of learning and up to one month from the mini roundabout on the the availability of places is taken 0845 053 0021. afterwards. B6243/B6244 Preston Road by into consideration. The loan is then repaid to the Fun day party for turning into Chapel Hill where Application forms are sent out Career step bank over an agreed period at a the site is located on the left. at the end of April to children fixed rate of interest. child centre birthday For information or to apply for due to start primary or second- Mr F from Skelmersdale: If you require further details a permit visit: www. ary school if they may be eligi- am 18 and am interested you can contact Lancashire BIRDS of prey, fruit kebabs, marquees lancashire.gov.uk/environ ble. If you have not received a in doing a course at col- Student Services on 01772 and sunflower-planting were among ment/waste or call the waste form by the end of May, you I lege. I am unable to 530430. should ring the School Transport receive any funding from my the attractions when a children’s centre helpline on 0845 0500 957. held a fun day. Helpline on 01772 534588. Local Education Authority. Email: [email protected] Can you suggest anything? It is just over a year since Park Healthy trips Be my baby scc.gov.uk or write to: Ask Children’s Centre in Skelmersdale opened Mr F from Kirkham writes: es. Career Development Shirley, Customer Service its doors to provide a brighter future for ow that summer is here I Mrs D from Poulton writes: Loans are available to stu- families in the area. Y Centre, The Red Rose Hub, Attractions last month included displays want to make the most of recently gave birth and dents aged 18 or over and Bluebell Way, Preston PR2 N the long, sunny days and was wondering how long I help to fund up to two years and talks by firefighters, local historians keep fit at the same time so I I have to register my baby vocational education, plus up to 5PZ. Telephone 0845 0530000. and by a number of craft experts. Centre facilities include a nursery, a mums’ and tots’ group, a baby-massage Don’t forget - your county councillor can help. Contact details are available on 0845 0530000 or at: www.lancashire.gov.uk group, a baby clinic and visits by dieticians You can also try your area’s County Information Centre where staff are trained to help the public and physiotherapists. Contact 01695 554535 for more details. A full job description of all vacancies is available on our website www.lancashire.gov.uk/vacancies www.lancashire.gov.uk Providing • information centres • hotlines June 2007 3 NEWS IN Town’s BRIEF success Library Audit praise for boosts nostalgia trading battle

LANCASHIRE’S four-star council bid for official Fair Trade status has INDEPENDENT local received a double government watchdogs projects – giving managers more chance to plan shot in the arm for the long term. have concluded that £25m stars of from the NHS and Gill Kilpatrick, county council deputy finance from the people of Lancashire County freedom chief, said: “There used to be a number of limi- Council is improving tations in how we could spend money. Burscough. MILITARY memories: First, the Fair services and delivering “These new freedoms mean we and our LAA Stanley Dickinson at EXTRA freedom to address crime, anti- Trade Foundation partners can spend the money the way we think Chorley library. “good value for money”. social behaviour and health and wellbeing awarded Fair Trade The Audit Commission’s will best suit local conditions. MEMORIES of air-raid is being granted to Lancashire County status to Burscough annual inspection letter says “We would not have this extra flexibility with- after retailers and the shelters and songs and that the county’s only four-star Council as a reward for good performance. films from the dark days of The council’s four-star status – four stars is out having our four stars.” town’s council signed authority is performing “consis- up to Fair Trade prin- World War Two were the tently well” and that the maximum the independent Audit Projects affected include those on providing a subject at a “nostalgia day” ciples and to selling Lancashire Local committees in Commission can award – means more flexibility cleaner and safer environment, encouraging at Chorley library. in spending a £25m Whitehall grant. recycling, supporting under-performing schools, Fair Trade goods. Librarians organised each part of the county are Then one of the showing signs of success in The flexibility means an end to “ringfencing” reducing disturbance caused by quarrying and the day of reminiscences and “clawbacks” in Local Area Agreement (LAA) improving neighbourhood management. county’s NHS hospital for people connected increasing local involvement. trusts – a major mainly with the old The auditors report that employer - said it sion of care packages; support money. Efficiency savings for money being achieved from Chorley Grammar nearly eight out of 10 local indi- planned to apply for for independence; delayed hos- totalled £19.5m in the last finan- the provision of its services. School, but also for all cators – a measure of service Fair Trade status. Chorley people. pital discharges – bed-blocking cial year – the same or improved “The council continues to performance – are improving, County Councillor Librarian Linda – remains one of the lowest service levels at a lower cost. achieve a four-star rating and that recycling rates are high, Tim Ormrod said: Langford said: “We held its direction of travel is improv- that the council exceeds targets “This is another step a similar event last year. ing well.” for reuse of neglected land and The council performs well . . . good value on the path towards It was so popular that County Councillor Hazel that community development is gaining Fair Trade many people asked us to for money is achieved in services Harding, county council leader, organise it again. being strengthened through status for Lancashire - auditor said: “Value for money is para- “The school used to libraries and schools. as a whole. mount for Lancashire people have an air-raid shelter on Highlights include: “Fair Trade involves nationally; improved access to Targets, however, could be used and it will always be paramount what is now the car park. Strong outcomes for chil- treating Third World benefits. more effectively to further for Lancashire County Council. Many people had memo- dren and young people. suppliers fairly and ries of it as well as happy Provision for looked-after chil- ‘ Positive signs of a develop- improve value for money. “Efficient services are one buying their goods at a The Audit Commission report thing: responsiveness to what memories of songs and dren is improving and above ing council-wide customer cul- fair price.” films of the era.” stated: “The council continues people actually want is another. those of similar councils; educa- ture – although the council’s The Co-operative tional attainment is high and recently introduced customer to perform consistently well’ We exceeded our £15m annual College has also pro- across all five ‘use of resources’ efficiency target by £4.5m, still improving. service centre requires further duced a fair Trade Sign up themes with strong financial while strengthening Lancashire Services for vulnerable integration into council services. information pack for management, a sound system of Locals to actually direct money to help adults are good and improving. Improved service perform- Lancashire schools. The report notes speedy provi- ance AND increased value for internal control and good value to where it is needed.” VOLUNTEERS of all ages are needed to provide community support for people with physical and learning Householders’ pride disabilities, and social- ly isolated adults in their communities. The county council’s in backyard beauty volunteer service, as part of this year’s Volunteer Week, wants to recruit more people willing to spend a cou- ple of hours a week to befriend and help vulnerable people. Training and education opportunities is available for volunteers. Telephone 01257 248118 or visit www.opening- doors.lancashire.gov.uk for details. Held to account SENIOR decision-mak- ers will be open to question in Preston and Burnley in June. Lancashire County TEAMS are ready to tackle backyard blight in areas such as Accrington, above. Council’s Cabinet of the opportunities within Question Time will visit A NEW project has been launched the Harris conference to help transform one of Lancashire’s urban environment to centre on Garstang Lancashire’s most underused enhance biodiversity, establish wildlife Road, Fulwood at resources - the backyard! corridors and develop sustainability 7.15pm on Tuesday 19 and recycling.” There are approximately 160,000 A pilot design - the result of a compe- June. County councillors terraced houses with backyards in on the panel will include tition - is being built in the backyard of leader Hazel Harding, Lancashire - a massively underused the India Street Neighbourhood man- finance chief Anne space with great potential for environ- agement office in Accrington. Brown, planning and mental regeneration in urban areas. Students from Myerscough College partnerships boss Jean The county council’s Environmental will be constructing the garden, while Battle, and Vali Patel. Projects Team is working with the permaculture project at Offshoots, It will move to Burnley Myerscough College and Elevate East Burnley will be growing the plants Youth Theatre on Lancashire to spruce up backyards. that will turn the backyard into a Queen’s Park Road, K Horsley, environmental projects green oasis. Burnley, at 7.15pm on officer, explained: “The traditional Wednesday 27 June. The construction of the garden will County councillors will Lancashire terraced home has been be finished by the beginning of July include Hazel Harding, overlooked for so long - but the 2007 and is being funded with contri- Matthew Tomlinson, Backyard Project aims to change that. butions from Elevate East Lancashire Anne Brown, adult and “We want to help to raise awareness and Lancashire County Council. community services lead member Chris Cheetham People can see the garden for themselves, or just find out and environment chief more, by ringing 01772 530650 or email: Tony Martin. [email protected] 4 June 2007 Providing • bridge maintenance • paths www.lancashire.gov.uk Another chance to WIN recycled garden furniture with Vision OOPS! We forgot to incl- answer this simple question: ude the question for last month’s competition. So Recycled garden furniture can be bought in black and ... here’s another chance to which other colour? win this fantastic prize. You could be the owner of a £295 picnic table or a bird The first correct entry to table - made from recycled be drawn will win the picnic “waste”. table, while the second will win the bird table. Delivery Prosperity Recycling and to your home is free. Lancashire County Council Send your entries to : Picnic have teamed up to reduce Competition, Vision, Corp- Landfill Tax by using domes- All of it is rot-free, mainte- orate Communications, Coun- tic plastic waste to make gar- nance-free, vandal resistant ty Hall, Preston, PR1 8XJ. den furniture. and features an attractive The company also pro- wood effect. Don’t forget - you can also enter duces garden seats, play- Available in black and Vision competitions online by visiting our ground equipment, benches, brown, the furniture is as website at: www.lancashire.gov.uk/cor- planters and raised flower good as wood - only it will porate/vision beds all made from recycled last almost for ever. Employees of Lancashire County plastic. To win, all you need to do is Council are not allowed to enter.

A hard day’s grind

HAVE many memories of textiles I (Vision, May), having worked at age 16 in J & JH Entwistle’s Clifton Mill, Church. I used to sit on a pik- REEL stories: ing stand, piking bob- Vision readers bins for the mule spin- have been fondly ners. I had to put a stick looking back on in the back of each card- their time in the ing engine and some- mills. times it would hit a revolving drum, thus requiring the helpful started work at 6am Root Pain Committee will be con- services of Alan, our and worked 56 hours sidering all your views stripper and grinder. per week. REFER to the in September, so there’s I recall David Ralph He had one week’s article in May’s still time to let us know and another man called holiday per year. I edition of Vision your views - editor. David who put a frog in He had four brothers regarding the avail- my coat pocket. That and one sister. ability of NHS den- Canal Can’t made me jump! All his brothers I didn’t go often into tists in Lancashire. served in France in the the weaving shed - it I am aged 63 and my LIVE in Burnley. was very noisy. 1914-18 war and all wife is aged 61. We have I Last week I decided Mill work was more returned, one with a been on the Lancashire to walk along the money than shop work. military medal. NHS dental waiting list canal to Blackburn. I got more than £6 in He is a self-pro- for over 12 months since Once I got past Rose the mill, compared with claimed communist - our dentist ceased to Grove, the path was dreadful. Worst of all £3 or £4 I would have and bitter about his treat NHS patients. In that time we have was the amount of litter got in a shop. experiences in the mill. The job was alright had to pay for private in and around the canal. He is admired by treatment, which we There are some great but dusty and I used to many and enjoys pretty fear it would damage can ill afford, but have views across the valley, good health. no alternative. but the amount of litter my lungs. I didn’t actu- H D TALBOT ally stay there long I have contacted a between Rose Grove and enough to suffer. Arnside number of dentists in Rishton in particular, My memories of the area, all with nega- made me ashamed to Clifton Mill are all nice. Generation tive results. say I’m a lassie from I still have the glowing One dentist told me Accrington. reference I was given dedication that they also are only There wasn’t one seat when I left. going to treat private where I could eat my OR 32 years, patients in future. lunch without being sur- ADRIAN V GRADY apart from war Accrington F It appears, as you rounded by beer cans service with said in your article, that and worse. We live in a the Royal Navy, I the NHS told the com- beautiful part of the Being Frank worked from being a mittee that almost all country, why is it being weaver to eventually the dentists would be turned into a tip? ISION asked for Come on Accrington, being works manag- signing up to the new recollections of contract, the ones that tidy it up and make us er in the textile V the cotton indus- have not and will not proud. industry. try and I have a 101- sign all practice in the ANNE CHATBURN More than anything Burnley year-old friend called Chorley area. else, my enduring mem- I personally suspect, Frank Trudgill. ory is of the dedicated as a retired police offi- Letters Frank was born in workforce, male and cer, that we are being containing a Nelson and started female, which endured conned and that this a work at Fletcher’s Mill, without complaint for nationwide problem. name and Nelson, as a 12-year-old. generation after PAINED address will be He looked after generation. Chorley given priority in three/four looms and May their efforts Thank you to every- was paid a weekly 30 publication. never be forgotten. one who has responded Letters may be shillings. DOUG BULL on this issue. Our Adult He rose at 5.30am, Waterfoot Social Care and Health edited. www.lancashire.gov.uk Providing • adult education • libraries June 2007 5 Dance group’s HAPPY FAMILIES Simon Research shows Lancashire has what TOP OF THE POPS PARENTS were asked which characteristics were Cowell desirable to bring up a family. Each of the parents want for their child’s future nation’s 408 local authority areas were then trial ranked. Lancashire’s 12 districts are listed below: CHEERLEADERS 9. Ribble Valley 18. Hyndburn funded by Grants for Growth will 23. Chorley 65. Rossendale have national expo- 74. West Lancashire sure when they appear on Simon 90. Pendle 99. South Ribble Cowell’s new talent 141. Burnley 170. Preston show. Shell’s Belles won a 200. Lancaster 208. Fylde place at the London 229. Wyre finals after auditions in Manchester. The Burnley group has Your views gone from strength to strength after receiv- Parent Martin Jones, Burnley: There is plenty for peo- ing the county council ple to do in this area – and plenty of schools. They are grant. going to be building more schools. The group, run by We are getting more people coming into the area so Michelle Williamson we need more schools. People wonder about the loca- (38) from Burnley, tion of these new schools but, overall, it is a good thing. teaches cheerleading dance moves and Alex Deegan, from applied for the grant to Skelmersdale, said: I like the enable young people open spaces. I’ve got grandchil- from the area to take dren and I enjoy taking them for dance qualifications. a walk to the pond to feed the One example of the ducks. good work Shell’s I’m from Liverpool originally Belles has achieved is MUM Lorna Hamer, daughter Emily and grandmother Ingrid love trips to the park and swimming pool. but I wouldn’t want to go back Devon Burnell (16), because it’s so much more built who was getting into THE low cost of living, low county council leader, said: “Members up. trouble until joining unemployment, good schools, of the public said they wanted good There needs to be more the group. beautiful countryside and rel- state schools, affordable family hous- amenities for young people Devon now has con- atively cheap houses are mak- ing, good local hospitals and plenty of though. fidence to pursue A- other families nearby. ing Lancashire into one of the “The areas looked at included large Ann Malia, from Ormskirk, levels and won a com- top places in Britain to bring mendation from towns, small towns and rural areas. said: I live opposite a farmer’s Lancashire’s High Sh- up a family. Obviously, none were without prob- field and I’ve lived there 20-odd eriff after chasing and Readers’ Digest pollsters asked par- lems altogether – but they did show years – I like it and have no catching a mugger. ents what they wanted from an area – that Lancashire was among the best intention of moving. and then found that each of loved in the country.” Joan Hargreaves, I work at Ormskirk hospital Fitness trainer lollipop lady, Rishton: My Michelle says cheer- Lancashire’s 12 districts were above One thread appeared to unite all the and live in walking distance so two nearly grown-up chil- it’s right on the doorstep. The leading gives children the national average. top-performing areas – the thread of Unsurprisingly, Lancashire’s “top” “community”. dren have been brought schools are good. My daughter a chance to learn new up in Rishton and they and I like to take my grand- skills while improving district is Ribble Valley - ranked nine Councillor Harding added: “We out of 408 council areas nationwide. know from our own research that have turned out well. daughter to the park in Ormskirk their confidence. The town now has bet- or out to Southport. Receiving the grant Second in Lancashire, Hyndburn there is a great sense of belonging to was 18th out of 408. Indeed, 10 out of the county of Lancashire. ter facilities than it used she says has made a Lorna Hamer (main picture with young daughter Emily 12 parts of the county were in the top “Improving life in Lancashire needs to have and so it is better huge difference. for families. My children and mother Ingrid), Skelmersdale: I lived in Ormskirk half of the table while seven that sort of commitment from She said: “The cours- for 16 years but live in Skelmersdale at the moment. Lancashire districts were in the used to go bowling, es will help hundreds Lancastrians – a commitment that Ormskirk is a comfortable size and you generally nation’s top 100. swimming, to football and of children. They are will include individuals, community to cricket and now the bump into someone you know. County Councillor Hazel Harding, now being rewarded groups and councils.” golf club is very good for There’s the park and duck pond and the swimming for all their work.” the young. pool. I’ve brought Emily out for a walk. It’s nice and The group has just More views The countryside round clean and you can actually walk to places without hav- performed its first here is also very nice. ing to cross busy roads. show. Mum Lynette Edwards, Appearing on Simon Rishton (pictured with Cowell’s “Britain’s Got husband Carl and daugh- Talent” involved meet- ter Shelby, 8) said: ing Ant and Dec, Piers Rishton is a lovely village Morgan and Amanda where everyone knows Holden. everyone else. There is Councillor Sean good community spirit Serridge, Lancashire and it is good for bringing County Council’s Cha- up young children. mpion for Young People, The cost of living is not said: “It is this kind of bad here – but there is not project that Grants for enough for teenagers to Growth can help. do and they make trouble. “I urge any groups or Marie Morris, going to Towneley Park and hall. Not all individuals who Preston (pictured parks are as good though. believe funding will left): I’ve lived in The cost of living is good for families help their project to get Preston all my life in Lancashire. in touch.” and I wouldn’t The programme to build and merge Grants for Growth is want to live any- schools in the area is catching people’s European Social Fund where else. attention. We will have to wait and see – money matched by and People are very I went to Ivy Bank High School and made available thro- friendly and every- pupils there never got on with ugh Lancashire Coun- body seems to Habergham pupils. Long term, mergers ty Developments Ltd know everybody may end that rivalry but only time will tell. (LCDL). else. Grants of up to People talk to each other. I like to visit Beverley Cartwright, Rishton: This is a £6,000 are available to Lytham and Blackpool for walks along good place to bring up children – I have groups or individuals the coast. I use public transport which is three grown-up children. It’s very quiet for projects that either very good and generous – it doesn’t which is good. create employment or cost a lot. Houses around here are very good move people nearer to value, although they are more expen- employment through Mother, Burnley: Schools and nursery sive than they used to be. training or volunteer- schools are good in the area. Countryside locally is very nice and ing. Anyone wishing to There is a lot for families to do, like easy to get to. know more can contact LCDL on 01772 Vision competitions and letters are online at: 551888. SAVE YOUR STAMPS www.lancashire.gov.uk/corporate/vision 6 LOOKJune 2007 Providing • youth LIVELY services • tourism www.lancashire.gov.uk

Voice of Help when school tragedy strikes

FOR some years now I schools often turn to CIST staff in a way that will have been co-ordinating for advice and support. help them support the chil- the Critical Incident We get about 30 calls a dren. year and we aim to visit We believe that staff in Support Team (CIST). the school really quickly schools are best placed to This is a team of educa- when that is needed. help grieving children and tional psychologists We always rely on colleagues because they are (and one special schools contacting us to known to them and they educational needs arrange support, as we are accessible on a daily officer) who train and know from the research in basis. work together to sup- this area and from our own We make follow-up visits experience that if schools and give contact numbers port schools that have actively want the team’s for ongoing support in to deal with tragic involvement, it is likely to every case. incidents. be more effective. We sometimes offer tar- ton Schools sometimes have Farring We try to keep schools geted support to individu- Josie to cope with very sad well informed and up to als or groups and this is events such as the sudden date in terms of what CIST always done with informed -former county councillor death of a pupil or of a can offer and how we can parental consent if pupils Lesley Carr member of staff. be contacted if we are are involved. LOCAL government is about more Sadly, for example, chil- needed. It is sometimes very sad than talking heads, agendas and end- dren are sometimes injured When we go into schools work, but we know it is less meetings. It is actually about peo- or killed in road traffic we give advice and assis- highly valued and the team ple and the services they need. accidents or house fires; tance which helps the derives a high level of sat- Education, roads, sports centres, housing – Senior educational sometimes a parent, pupil school community develop isfaction from the contact all is done at local government level and, as psychologist or teacher commits suicide their own response to their with school staff, children a democracy, everyone has their say. and at such times grieving bereavement. We support and families. For Josie Farrington – now Baroness Farrington – it was a concern for housing conditions that propelled her to seek elec- THE 500-acre Yorkshire Sculpture Park tion as a councillor, then as a county council- is the subject of a talk organised by lor and then as an MP. Lancaster’s Storey Gallery. She believes passionately that everyone Members of the public are invited to Peter should get more involved in public affairs … Murray’s talk at 7.30pm on Tuesday 5 June at The Dukes, Moor Lane, Lancaster. What first made you seek election? The park was founded in 1977 in an 18th century parkland - with pleasure gardens. I got involved with housing charity Shelter and came Peter’s talk will explore how the park has to realise that housing policy change needed local gov- gradually opened up to the public. ernment action. I was elected to Preston Council from 1973 to 1976. I became a county councillor in 1977 because of my interest in education and served until 1997. Summer listings Representing people is very important and usually enjoyable. Most people who become councillors want to Wednesday 6 June Wednesday 20 June make life better for people – I believe that is true for 10am-4pm. Map and com- 10am-2pm. Tramper trek candidates of all parties. pass event. All-day work- through Witton Country shop on navigation basics. Park, Blackburn. Meet at vis- Bowland Visitor Centre, itor centre car park. Booking Are elections enjoyable? Beacon Fell Country Park. essential 01254 55423. Booking essential 01995 Yes. They are always hard work although nerve- 640557. Thursday 21 June wracking for candidates. You have to genuinely enjoy 8am-6pm. Mary Towneley meeting people and be prepared to speak up for them. Saturday 9 June Loop in a day. 50-mile cycle I have been in the Lords since 1994, but still miss 10.30am-3.30pm. Want to trip for serious mountain bik- local government. gain experience of the work ers. Depart Clowbridge car Canal project gets of a countryside ranger? park. Booking essential Meet the Conservation 01995 640557. What do you feel you have achieved? Crew. Age 14 to 18. Bring Sunday 24 June Some things I have been involved in have really suitable clothing and packed dinner and join in. Beacon 10.30am-4.30pm. Limestone changed people’s lives for the better. Most have been adults On The Move Fell Country Park visitor cen- Hushings. Historical and highly localised but still very important. tre. Tel 01995 640557. archaeological guided walk. One was getting young children full-time places in A GROUP of dedicated green- loads of rubbish. It was basically a Meet Pepper Hill Barn, reception classes. That was the basis of the recent dumping ground. Sunday 10 June Wycoller. Booking essential figured volunteers have 01995 640557. expansion of nursery places – a really important issue worked tirelessly to trans- “We, as individuals and as a group, Noon-1pm; 1.30pm-2.30pm for families. have overcome all kinds of obstacles or 3pm-4pm. The terrific 1-3pm. Flower Power. See and terrible lives of the The second thing we achieved in Lancashire was form a dumping ground into a over the last two years”, says Colin. Scorton’s meadows at their beauty spot in Burnley. Tudors. Sessions ends with best and learn about their producing a policy for education in a multi-cultural Group members successfully con- actual musket firing. Suitable The “On the Move” group from vinced neighbours not to throw their wild flowers. Meet at Scorton community. It was something that won support from for all family. Turton Tower picnic site. all the parties and from all religious groups. Lancashire County Council’s Meadow rubbish into the area. 01204 852203. Bank centre for adults with learning Colin as overcome bigger personal 1.30-4.30pm. World of Wool Monday 25 June What motivates a councillor? disabilities has worked as volunteers obstacles with his health after suffer- – sheep shearing, spinning Get Knotted – learn how to on a canal side garden project at demonstrations and other tie knots. Drop-in activity for ing a heart attack which has left him crafts associated with sheep. A desire to see something change for the better. Small Lower Bank in Burnley for two years. semi-blind and other conditions to his all ages. Lancaster Maritime things matter a lot at a neighbourhood level. Aisled barn, Wycoller, near Museum 01524 382264. The project has involved turning a health. But now Colin is involved Colne. I want to see people of all sections of society take up waste land area into a community with On The Moveand, in his own You can find lots of infor- their place as elected representatives – men and playground, barbeque area and sen- words, “lives for every Wednesday” Wednesday 13 June women, working and non-working and people of all 7-9pm. Relaxing stroll along mation about events on: sory garden with disabled access. and has made many friends. www.lancsmuseums. cultural backgrounds. Colin Howarth, the project manag- the River Ribble, looking at “To see it now compared to what it flowers and searching for gov.uk and at Being a councillor is very time consuming, but it is er who also works on a voluntary was like two years ago is unbeliev- fundamentally important that the needs of all sections wildlife. Marles Wood, www.lancashire.gov.uk/ basis, said: “When we started the able. The group can really be proud of Dinckley. environment/ of the community are represented. place was full of trees, weeds and what has been achieved,” says Colin. We need more women in local government. countryside Saturday 16 June Useful phone numbers I remember when the leaders of the three main par- 10am-3pm. 20-mile cycle ties on Lancashire County Council were all women Safety system to boost services ride, Cliviger Loop. Bowland Visitor Centre, and there was a particularly long and arduous budget Bridleway ride, suitable Beacon Fell Country Park meeting. I heard two councillors lamenting the fact WHITWORTH Town Council and out of town – a database that mountain bikes. Meet 01995 640557 Clowbridge car park. Wycoller Country Park that a deal could not be struck in the breaktime in the has teamed up with Lancashire will only be used by police in the Booking essential 01995 01282 870253 men’s toilets! County Council to install aftermath of a serious incident. It 640557. will not record the speed of cars. Spring Wood Picnic Site What didn’t you enjoy? Amberwatch emergency alert The camera system cost £17,000, Sunday 17 June 01254 825187 systems on to lampposts. funded jointly by the county council 1pm-4pm. National Badger Lancashire Countryside Being unable to solve problems faced by constituents. The camera-based system, useful and by Whitworth Town Council. Day. Bring your dad or Service main office granddad as it is also There is also the occasional unreasonable voter. I for transmitting messages to the The system also features adverts 01772 534709 was once telephoned just before midnight on Boxing Father’s Day. Make a badg- Museums’ main office community via LED panels, will that raise revenue for Whitworth er-inspired gift. Turton Tower Day by a man reporting a broken streetlight! 01772 534061 also record vehicle movements in Town Council services. 01204 852203. www.lancashire.gov.uk Providing • youth services • tourism June 2007 7 Life in Lancashire Wendy is Golden Jason’s chairman of sports launch the house

MAJOR new sports facility is bringing opportunities for fitness and fun to A school children and local people in the Lune Valley. Thanks to a grant of nearly £710,000 from the Big Lottery Fund, Lancashire County Council has built a brand-new sports hall at Caton Community Primary School, officially opened by former pupil and Olympic cycling gold medallist Jason Queally MBE. The major award means that deter- mined fundraisers at the school have seen their vision for a much-needed sports venue turn into reality, for both the school COUNTY Councillor Wendy Dwyer has been and the surrounding area. named as the new chairman of Lancashire Mrs Donna Sully, headteacher at Caton County Council. Community Primary School, said: “The Wendy, who represents Accrington South, will school and local community are absolutely hold this important civic position for a year. delighted with our new sports hall. The post of chairman is similar to that of a “We are now able to offer wider opportu- mayor, raising the profile of Lancashire at a region- nities for gymnastics and dance in partic- al, national and international level. ular, together with a wet-weather option During her year in office, the chairman will for games lessons and extra-curricular attend a range of events and functions, in addition activities. to many other formal duties. Wendy is the 41st “We have already hosted events for chairman of the county council and takes up the schools in the Lune Valley, such as a historic role which dates back to 1889. multi-skills festival and gymnastics train- Wendy takes over from County Councillor Terry ing. In addition, the sports hall has also Burns, who represents Burnley North East. enabled us to establish a Breakfast Club During the past twelve months Wendy worked on site, offering regular childcare for a closely with Terry in her role as deputy chairman. number of our families.” A new deputy chairman will be appointed shortly to assist the chairman with her year in office. he sports hall has been completed to a very high standard, with mark- ings for badminton, netball and football, a fitted kitchen, changing Cash help with T rooms, facilities for disabled people, an office and storage space for equipment. Funding for the new facility comes from Primary School will play a more central role in providing access to PE your Council the Big Lottery Fund’s £750 million New PUPILS, Jason and sport for this thriving community.” Opportunities for PE and Sport (back row, left), Programme, which aims to create new staff and building Tax bill and improved PE and sports facilities for firm representa- ig Lottery Fund Head of North West Region Helen Bullough communities across England. tives at the outlined the benefits the funding will bring: “This sports hall By Jim Dickson, Richard Gaskell, school governor and school. will be a vital resource for the school and community. Caton head of the chairman of the Sports Hall Management Community Primary School is leading the way in this area – county council’s Committee, added: “The addition of this B providing access to high quality sports facilities to thousands of sports hall means that Caton Community users and developing a new role as a local hub for PE and sport.” Welfare Rights Service IF YOU are paying the Council Tax for your home you may be interested to know how you could reduce your bill. Council Tax Benefit is a means-tested benefit New Era for gran that could help pay some or all of your bill. Whether or not you qualify will depend on your GRANDPARENTS are being and financial aspects of parenting at Grandparent Carer Network comes in. income and your savings. helped to overcome family a later age.” “At the very least we are a meet- You cannot claim if you have more than Such carers fall into two main cate- ing place for grandparents and give £16,000 in savings unless you get the Guarantee problems by the extra sup- gories: them the chance to share their expe- Credit of Pension Credit, in which case all your port provided by a county Those who provide support for riences and the lessons they have savings are ignored. council-backed social enter- Contact 01282 parents during holidays and while learned. If you can’t get Council Tax Benefit you might qualify for a second adult rebate if someone else prise. 450536 or parents are at work. “Guest speakers also come to who lives with you is on a low income. Drugs, prison, mental breakdown, www.newera.coop Those who act in a loco parentis meetings to help grandparents cope divorce, family rows … all can lead for more details situation – their grandchildren often There are also discounts which do not depend while fun days give everyone the on your income or savings. For example if some- to grandparents losing touch with live with them by way of a court opportunity to make new friends. their grandchildren. one in your household has a “severe mental order. “Grandparents are in a vitally “That can be incredibly painful,” New Era’s Grandparent Carer impairment” this could reduce your bill. important position as, in the absence said Fiona Duncan, of Burnley’s New Network, a county council-funded You could also get a reduction if you have had of parents, a child invariably needs Era Enterprises. group of professionals, provides sup- to adapt a room or have a second bathroom or “Some mums and dads use grand- port and friendship for grandparents. loving grandparents.” kitchen fitted because someone in your household children as a weapon. Often there Project worker Fiona said: Network members meet on the is disabled. are problems in their own lives that “Grandparents have told us of their last Wednesday of each month, There are other ways to cut your Council Tax they can no longer face – and the physical health concerns, their wor- except in school holidays. Formal bill which we don’t have space to go into here. grandparent ends up picking up the ries over their grandchildren’s behav- training is also available as well as Your local council will have information about pieces by looking after the children. ioural issues, financial worries and informal support. the full range of rebates and discounts or you can “Either way, it can leave the their feelings of isolation. Outreach home visits are also pro- get our factsheet, “Money off your Council Tax,” grandparents needing support in a “They lack knowledge of the support vided and the project provides crèche by writing to Lancashire Welfare Rights Service, number of ways. There is evidence available to them within the commu- facilities for children while grandpar- FREEPOST, Preston PR1 8BR. that they struggle with the physical nity and that is where the ents attend meetings. 8 June 2007 Providing • food safety • welfare advice www.lancashire.gov.uk Cabinet change as new members join Free disc THE new civic year will net to replace two departing Tom Burns, who takes over leader; Chris Cheetham, to help see a new look for members. responsibility for organisa- Adult and Community Lancashire County They are Leyland Central tional development from Vali Services; Jean Battle, Hazel Vali member Matthew Tomlinson, Patel. County Councillor Community Planning and Harding Patel pals of Council’s cabinet. who takes over the planning Patel takes over responsibili- Partnerships; Tony Martin, As with 10 Downing Street, and environment portfolio ty for schools from Alan Sustainable Development; New New the county council’s cabinet from Clive Grunshaw. Whittaker who, in turn, Matthew Tomlinson, member member L-drivers makes major decisions on County Councillor Grunshaw moves sideways to become Planning and Environment; Doreen Anne Tom Matthew policy and overall direction of is to gain responsibilities the council’s deputy chair- Marcus Johnstone, Pollitt Brown Burns Tomlinson EXPERT help is at services in the area. with the Police Authority man. Children and Young People; hand for those plan- The total number of cabi- as a nomination from The full list of responsibili- Vali Patel, Schools; Anne ning to help friends net members remains Lancashire County Council. ties is as follows: Brown, Resources and learn to drive. unchanged at 10. Two new The second new member is Hazel Harding, leader; Performance; Tom Burns, Chris Jean Tony Marcus Lancashire County members are to join the cabi- Preston North West member Doreen Pollitt, deputy Organisational Development. Cheetham Battle Martin Johnstone Council’s Road Safety Group has launched an interactive CD- ROM to assist “accom- TV’s panying drivers” and their learners. And the good news is that the package is Trevor Schools spearhead available for free. The Perfect Partner resource is the first of its goes kind in the UK and is designed to raise accompanying drivers’ awareness of the vulnerability on the of new drivers. £250m jobs boost Neil Cunliffe, Road Safety Group manager buses said: “This is not an CONTRACTS alternative to getting THE county’s pio- worth nearly £10m professional lessons. neering Safer have already been “Studies have shown Travel Unit (STU) placed with that gaining more was the centre of Lancashire firms supervised on-road national media att- as work begins on experience at the ention recently ‘learner stage’ can sig- the Building nificantly reduce new when Trevor McD- Schools for the drivers’ crash risk in onald sent his cam- Future programme the first two years eras to Lancashire. in Burnley and after passing the driv- Council officers Pendle. ing test.” teamed up with police Nearly £6m of busi- The CD-ROM sup- officers to give the TV ness has been won by ports professional crew an inside view of firms in east Lancashire. tuition through prac- the work done to make The contracts include tice sessions at home, public transport safer work on things like fix- as well as tips on both for all. tures and fittings, steel the theory and practi- STU manager Rick frames, and earthworks. cal tests and current Wilson explained: “The The Building Schools legislation. producers approached for the Future pro- It will also help us some time ago as gramme will involve accompanying drivers they had heard that £250m pounds of devel- to practise the skills Lancashire had a par- opment on nine sites in already taught by their ticularly innovative Burnley and Pendle. professional instructor approach to tackling Work has started on THE Building Schools for the Future development at Shuttleworth College in Padiham was featured on the BBC’s North and driving attitudes anti-social behaviour. three sites where stu- West Tonight programme. of learner drivers. “For a few years now dents are due to start Students Charlotte Seddon and Michael Nuttall, both aged 13, are pictured talking to TV reporter Dave Guest. The innovative we have been develop- using the facilities in resource is available to ing a new way of mak- September 2008. The Burnley Campus, worth £5.9m pounds to ment about confidence young people, said: “This the public and is avail- ing public transport a The Shuttleworth on Barden Lane, will Lancashire businesses. in the area. project is bringing mas- able direct from the better way to travel. College site on Burnley house a 600-pupil sixth The Building Schools “We look forward to sive regeneration to Road Safety Group “This includes run- Road, Padiham, will form, a primary school, a for the Future pro- working with the county Burnley and Pendle. and elsewhere throu- ning our own lessons house a 1,050-place primary special school, a gramme is being spear- council and the develop- “We will be working ghout Lancashire. in schools, providing school for pupils aged 11 ers to help local compa- with the developers, the For more informa- bus companies with to 16 and a learning sup- nies identify business chamber of commerce tion visit lan- training DVDs and port centre. This makes a real statement opportunities.” and local business peo- cashire.gov.uk/road- carrying out on-the- Orders placed so far Marcus Johnstone, ple to build a more pros- safety call 0800 328 spot checks of buses.” about confidence in the area 1365 or e-mail road- for the site are worth - business leader Lancashire County perous, happier, and St Christopher’s CE £2.5m pounds to Council’s cabinet mem- better educated commu- [email protected] High School, Accring- Lancashire businesses: ber for children and nity.” scc.gov.uk ton, where the idea of Keith Walton children’s centre, a faith headed by Lancashire “bus prefects” was tri- Brickworth Ltd, of centre and a public County Council in part- alled some years ago, Nelson, has a contract to library.‘ nership with developers received a visit from provide bat roosts. The Pendle Vale Catalyst Lend Lease and the ITV producers. James Killelea Ltd, College and Pendle builders Bovis Lend The year 11 pupils ’ of Rossendale, has a con- Community High School Lease. act as the “eyes and tract to provide steel site, on Oxford Road in Michael Damms, the ears” on buses, dealing work. Nelson, will house a chief executive of East with minor incidents H. Breakell, of 1,050-place school for Lancashire Chamber of and reporting major Blackburn, has a con- pupils aged 11 to 16, a Commerce, said: “The ones. tract to provide lifts. special school for pupils Building Schools for the There are now 620 Vari-tech, of aged 11 to 19, and a Future programme is a travel prefects at Blackburn, has a con- learning support centre. great boost to the econo- schools county-wide tract to provide fixtures, Orders placed so far my of east Lancashire with more coming on- fittings and equipment. for Pendle Vale are and makes a real state- board each year. Viewers also saw officers board buses to Building work: full steam ahead check for anti-social behaviour. foundations have been completed Rick said: “The way WORK is continuing on the first phase of the 250 million and structural steelwork has we work to make pub- begun. lic transport safer for pounds Building Schools for the Future programme in At Burnley Campus, on Barden everyone means that Lane, the steel structure of the we are in the spotlight Burnley and Pendle. buildings is starting to emerge. quite often - but it At the Shuttleworth College site The BSF scheme will bring doesn’t mean that on Burnley Road, Padiham, thou- there is a bigger prob- sands of cubic tons of concrete state-of-the-art schools and eco- lem in the county. have been poured into the foun- nomic regeneration to east “In fact, the work we dations. Lancashire. are doing is inspiring At the Pendle Vale College and Students and teachers will similar projects in other Pendle Community High School move into the first three sites in parts of the country.” site on Oxford Road, Nelson, the September 2008. Produced by Corporate Communications Group, Lancashire County Council (tel 01772 531095/533536). Printed by Morton’s Print Ltd.