y News...features...plus more about your city...your neighbourhood...your services cCov enttr v s on INSIDE Christmas on the home front in 1914 They said it would be all over by Christmas 1914, but the horrors of the Great War are still with us 100 years later... * Picture: The Herbert Art Gallery & Museum

l See What’s On pages for details of First World War centenary exhibition. PLUS l 2-page late-night shopping special l Cycle routes joy for city bikers l WIN tickets for Wasps’ Ricoh clash

issue 49 | december | 2014 Including: news, comments and updates from organisations across the city working together to improve life in Coventry

From the top contents welcome to the december 2014 issue of citivision l A personal A personal message from Ken Sloan, chair of the Coventry Partnership... message from * Ken Sloan, Cllr Ann Lucas OBE, I chaired my first Coventry Partnership On a wonderful note, our city’s chair of the meeting in November, where partners universities have been showcased in the Coventry Leader, Coventry Partnership. City Council. discussed our priority ‘Growing the City Times and Sunday Times Good University and Tackling Poverty’ and explored what Guide. Coventry has been named as success for the city would look like. We all University of the Year for Student recognised that it is important that we use Experience and has retained its title as Crucial choices on the collective resources and experience of Modern University of the Year for the partners to address this priority by second consecutive year. Warwick has the 2015 horizon supporting one another’s work and striving been named University of the Year – It’s hard to believe Christmas and to systematically and sustainably improve which is especially good news as the a new year is nearly upon us again. life within the city, while tackling difficult University celebrates its 50th Anniversary 2014 has been a pretty eventful and challenging issues as they arise. in 2015. year in Coventry with both big challenges and great opportunities. education We’ve had plenty to celebrate this year, including welcoming the 9 11 The number of good or Irish President and Prince William outstanding primary schools in Coventry has surged by here for very special visits, 32 per cent in two years. enjoying our best ever Godiva Festival, and giving the crew of HMS Diamond Freedom of the health City on a sparkling Autumn day. 14 Delegates from across the We’ve seen our city centre West Midlands joined major improvements begin to encourage conference in Coventry to new investors and businesses here, combat Female Genital we’ve celebrated our Ring Road’s Mutilation. 40th birthday in style, we’ve seen work on a new business district Technology for the city centre at Friargate get 17 A hydrogen fuel-cell van well underway and our young was showcased by Coventry people are doing much better in University at the our primary schools than they Advanced Engineering UK were a couple of years ago. 19 8 show. Next year will, I suspect, be even busier! We want Coventry to news regeneration fitness be a top-ten city again, and that 19 Cycle Coventry is opening means making some very big 4 The Council has warned 9 Construction of the bridge that continued government deck at Junction 6 of the Ring a series of new, improved decisions about growing our city routes over the next few and working more closely with spending cuts will affect Road has reached a major landmark, with the installation months to help people get our neighbours to get a bigger services across the city for the next five years. of the steel beams that will to key places of work and slice of government funding at a support Warwick Road. leisure more easily. time when we’re coping with 6 A new mental health service massive spending cuts. designed to help people on what’s on We’ll make the decisions that arts & culture the street who need 20 A round-up of some of the are best for the city, its people and immediate support has been 8 The Belgrade Theatre’s attractions on offer in and the future. Coventry is a unique launched in Coventry. commercial set building around Coventry this and very special city, and nothing company has achieved record winter. will ever change that. sport turnover this year. I wish you all a peaceful councillors Christmas and a very happy new 7 Coventry Sports Network 8 A call has gone out for new year. has been set up to deliver and young recruits to join the 22 Need to contact your lead the citywide sports City of Coventry Corps of councillor? Check out our * You can write to Ann at The Council strategy for the next 10 years. Drums. comprehensive directory. House, Earl Street, Coventry CV1 5RR, or e-mail her at [email protected] contact us If you need this information in another Call the Citivision newsdesk on print and distribute to every If you would like to advertise in the format or language please contact us: 024 7683 1075 or write to Newsdesk, home in Coventry. You can also next issue of Citivision , contact Tel: 024 7683 1081 Room 27, The Council House, pick up a copy at libraries and Darren O’Shaughnessy on Fax: 024 7683 1132 Earl Street, Coventry, CV1 5RR, council buildings. Citivision is 024 7683 1075. Coventry City e-mail: communications@ or e-mail [email protected] produced on paper from Council is grateful for the support coventry.gov.uk sustainable woodland and is from advertisers in this issue of Written and produced by the chlorine free. The milling process Citivision , but accepts no Cover story: Young visitors get hands-on experience at the First World War exhibition at Communications Team, Coventry also has Environmental responsibility for the accuracy of Coventry’s Herbert Art Gallery and Museum. For City Council. Each edition of Management Systems in place. adverts. The next issue of Citivision will details and dates of The Great War, Coventry’s Story , checkout the What’s On Citivision costs 7p per copy to write, Once read, please recycle. be delivered in March 2015. listings on pages 20-21.

14-0879-EGT december 2014 | citivision | 03 news ‘Threat to services for next five years’ Finance chief highlights the perils of continued government cuts Coventry City Council has warned that We’re beginning to see the results of our continued government spending cuts will ‘Over the coming couple of work over the past few years to improve affect services across the city for the next months councillors will be looking the city centre’s appearance, develop a five years. at the detail of options being new business district for Coventry at The senior councillor in charge of finance at developed by council officers to Friargate and link with organisations to the Council, Cllr Damian Gannon, says help us meet the budget gap...’ bring jobs here. councillors will have to take some difficult “Our new customer services centre decisions about services as they set next year’s a balanced budget next February. in Broadgate opens next year and will budget. Cllr Gannon said: “We’re facing some stark bring lots of Council services in one Government spending cuts will see the choices over the coming months, and it’s place, which both saves money and is Council’s budget gap increase to £65million by important we’re honest with residents about better for residents. 2017 – with the Council losing around half its these choices. There’s no doubt people will be “But in other areas we will be making annual grant from government since 2010. losing services they’ve come to take for granted. decisions that will mean reducing or The Council is already making savings through “But we’re absolutely determined to use cutting services completely. Over the reducing the workforce and the number of scarce resources to make sure our most coming couple of months councillors will be Council buildings across the city, better use of vulnerable residents – children and old people looking at the detail of options being technology and reviewing services across the alike – continue to be protected. At the same developed by Council officers to help us meet organisation, but Cllr Gannon says more savings time we’d be failing Coventry people if we didn’t the budget gap, but they’ll have very little choice need to be found before the Council can deliver continue to invest in the city and its future. about where to make cuts.” Get your head into the Cloud app for New service for benefits claimants the best in city-centre shopping deals An appointment-only service for people who claim housing benefit and council tax support has been A project to help introduced by the Council. city centre Following a successful ‘pilot’ scheme, people who independent want to claim housing benefit or council tax retailers support need to book an appointment. Tim Savill, promote special who manages the process, said: “In the past people discount offers to followed a ‘ticket and wait’ process. Now shoppers via the customers arrive and are seen almost immediately web is likely to and the feedback from them is positive. This means be rolled out we have been able to assess benefit claims more across the city quickly.” centre. In exceptional circumstances, for example in Coventry cases of immediate eviction or where there are shoppers can vulnerability issues, staff will see customers without sign up to the an appointment. However, they will have to wait special discount until a member of staff is free to see them. Cllr scheme on the Damian Gannon, Cabinet Member for Strategic web. When they Finance and Resources, said he wanted to ensure are near a shop that there remained a safety net for more that is signed up vulnerable claimants: “In these cases we would aim to the scheme, to see people without needing an appointment.” the customer can The new process means that the service will: benefit with n See customers at a time that suits them and will offers being sent mean that they do not have to experience to their phone. n Promoting the new app are (from left) Councillor Kevin Maton, Jackie Logan of significant waiting times; Silver Glade Jewellery and Mick McLaughlin of Serious Games International. Consumers can n Record the purpose of the visit at the time of also log on to the website to reserve an item on-line. developed by Serious booking the appointment and ensure the customer from home to view offers There is a prize to be Games International, and knows what information to bring with them; and use the click and won at the end of the trial uses the latest beacon n Allocate a dedicated officer who will prepare for collect service. for the customer that technology in the city the appointment; Points are collected for builds up the most points. centre to push offer n Complete the benefit claim during the interview joining the scheme, visiting The Coventry Cloud was notification messages from where possible. zones within the city trialled with a ‘pop up businesses to customers on You can e-mail to arrange an appointment via centre, responding to shop’ open in City Arcade their phones. [email protected] or by calling 024 7683 phone notifications, until the end of November. A variety of independent 1800. Appointments can also be made by speaking viewing details on offers The scheme works via a retailers are on board for to the receptionist in the Housing centre in Spire and using Click and Collect website and free App, the trial. House, New Union Street.

Would you like to be kept up-to-date via e-mail? You can now subscribe to Council e-mail alerts about a wide range of topics including roadworks, events and scam alerts. KEEP IN TOUCH: For more information visit www.coventry.gov.uk/enewsletters 04 | citivision | december 2014 news Sharks add bite to the opening programme for Wasps Rugby Union giants Wasps kick off European Rugby Champions Cup the field, and we feel very their new life at the Ricoh Arena the following weekend. privileged to be able to call it our on Sunday, December 21, with Rugby fans across the region are new home.” their Aviva Premiership expected to flock to the venue Council leader Cllr Ann Lucas clash against London with Wasps having made the said: “Wasps’ decision to make Irish. switch from London to the Ricoh their home here is really The club then Arena. important for the city and its entertains Sale Club skipper James Haskell said: future. They have some really Sharks in the “Everyone at Wasps is really exciting plans for community and Aviva looking forward to playing our first grassroots development that will Premiership game at the Ricoh and getting bring massive benefits to Coventry on January 4, stuck in against the Exiles. The youngsters.” and Leinster Ricoh is a world-class venue, with For ticket information, visit Rugby in the incredible facilities both on and off www.wasps.co.uk

Website update’s doing the business The Council’s new website is helping residents find information about services more easily – and making it simple to do business with the Council online. The new site – www.coventry.gov.uk – has been completely rewritten to make ps’ first ...tickets to Was sure there’s no baffling jargon. oh match at the Ric Work is also underway to create IN! user accounts so people can W for grabs two tickets up access Council services that Citivision has asps’ to mark the W a competition previously needed a phone call, in oh Arena on atch at the Ric or even a trip to a Council office. first m be in with a ecember 21. To Councillor Damian Gannon, Sunday, D swer the ing, simply an Cabinet Member for Resources chance of winn tion: following ques Wasps’ ambassador Paul Sackey Coventry schools and rugby clubs. said: “We’ll be putting more asps? e captain of W (front) meets local youngsters to Working in partnership with services online over the coming Q. Who is th tions@ showcase the club’s free tickets Coventry Sports Network, Coventry months to meet growing to communica end your reply offer, along with Councillors Sports Foundation and Warwickshire demand. Of course, some S o later than try.gov.uk by n coven e first David Kershaw and Abdul Khan RFU, Wasps is distributing free tickets customers will need to speak to ecember 12. Th Friday, D e sack either side of the club’s mascot. to the clashes against London Irish us face to face or over the pulled from th correct entry More than 10,000 free tickets on Sunday, December 21, and Sale phone, so next September we’ll e will be the the above dat be opening a new customer after nclude your for three of the Wasps’ first four Sharks on January 4, as well as the on’t forget to i winner. D ry. games at the Ricoh Arena have LV= Cup match against Cardiff Blues services centre in Broadgate with your ent contact details been made available for on February 1. House that will bring Council services together in one place.” How to avoid a cabby ‘carry on’ The chair of the Council’s n Highlighting “For example, if the taxi journey Licensing and Regulatory the taxi campaign crosses a border between Coventry and Committee is encouraging are (from left) Warwickshire drivers can refuse or students at Warwick and Marvin Nkemdirim charge any price provided the amount is of Coventry Coventry universities to report University, mutually agreed before the journey their experiences of taxi travel in Councillors Pat starts.” the city. Hetherton and The Safer Student Travel advice card A new postcard being shared among Phil Townshend, also reminds people that they can hail a students encourages passengers to and Rob Ankcorn black cab taxi when it is being driven of the University report their experience – both positive of Warwick. along the street, but they need to pre and negative – to Coventry’s taxi book a private hire vehicle. licensing team. hackney carriage or booking a private-hire vehicle. Rob Ankcorn, from University of Student representatives from both universities Cllr Pat Hetherton, chair of the Council’s Warwick Students’ Union, said: “It’s great that we are supporting the information campaign and say Licensing and Regulatory Committee, said: “It is have been able to work with the local authority the more information students have will enable clear that there is often a misunderstanding about and together can highlight the strengths and both taxi drivers and passengers to avoid any how taxi fares are calculated and young people challenges that students have with taxi travel in the misunderstanding when either flagging a black gave a mixed review of their experiences. city and across into Warwick.” december 2014 | citivision | 05 news It’s a vicious circle! Dodgy deals help to fund theft and drugs trade People who buy stolen goods are inadvertently “Threequarters of all people who are brought For CCTV footage of suspected shoplifters adding to the city’s drugs problem, police have into custody and test positive for drugs have been police want to track down, visit warned. arrested on suspicion of thefts from shops or www.flickr.com/photos/westmidlandspolice In a twin-pronged crackdown on shoplifting and market stalls,” he said. “If they hadn’t been caught, To report a shoplifter, share information on the drugs trade, West Midlands Police are urging they would have sold those goods and used the where they’re selling stolen goods or to give details the public not to buy stolen goods, thereby helping money to buy more drugs.” of people buying from them, call police on 101. the thief to fund their taste for illegal highs. West Midlands Police investigate around 16,200 In addition, Crimestoppers will pass information Superintendent Rich Baker, of West Midlands thefts each year from shops and stalls, the on to police anonymously if contacted on 0800 Police, said people who buy stolen goods should equivalent of one in 10 of every crime recorded in 555 111. Callers can also claim a reward if a think about what they’re really funding. the county. suspect is arrested and charged.

Flower-power success Residents lead campaign Street team on anti-social behaviour is so meadow sweet New measures to give victims and communities a say in the way anti-social on standby behaviour is dealt with have been launched in Coventry. Community Trigger, launched under the to aid the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, enables victims and communities to request a review of their case, if they are city’s needy not satisfied with progress. Once the request is processed this would bring agencies together to take a joined-up, A new mental health service designed to problem-solving approach to find a help people on the street who need solution. immediate support has been launched in Cllr Phil Townshend, Cabinet Member Coventry. for Policing and Equalities, said: “The Street triage schemes see mental health Community Trigger is an important power nurses accompany police officers to incidents that enables residents to make a complaint where police believe people need immediate that can be thoroughly reviewed.” mental health support. Tests needed to invoke the Community Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trigger process are as follows: Trust, working with NHS Coventry and Rugby n One person has reported three separate Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and incidents relating to the same problem Coventry City Council Public Health Services, is Councillor Rachel Lancaster stands amid the in past six months OR ; now funding a street triage service in the city. stunning display of wildflowers along the n One person reported one incident or The Coventry Police and Crime Board has also central reservation of the A45 between Green crime motivated by hate in the last six contributed financially, using some of its Lane and the Leamington Road island, which months and no action has been taken Community Safety Funds provided by the West has landed the city a top environmental OR; Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner. award. The beautiful wildflowers are not only n At least five people have made reports The aim is to ensure people get the medical bringing some countryside into the city, but about the same problem in the past six attention they need as quickly as possible. The they have also brought Coventry a Green months and no action has been taken. scheme, launched on Monday, December 1, Apple Gold Award from the Green People can ask for an ongoing incident to operates from 5pm-2am, seven days a week. Organisation. Councillor Lancaster said it was be reviewed by calling 0500 834 333 or West Midlands Ambulance Service and out-of- wonderful achievement for the city. e-mailing community.trigger@coventry hours NHS services are also actively involved in .gov.uk establishing the new service. Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust chief executive Rachel Newson said: “The Comic heroes highlight darker side of winter most important thing is to do all we can to help Batman may have had shared across Coventry people experiencing a mental health crisis. Robin to help him rid which stress the importance Where this scheme has been introduced in Gotham’s streets of of reporting crimes and other areas, it has been very successful in criminals, but West suspicious behaviour so that supporting people in very difficult Midlands Police has a officers can take action. circumstances.” greater force . . . the local With its own dedicated West Midlands Police chief inspector Sean community! website, The Dark Nights Russell said: “This scheme has led to marked In a move away from Return campaign aims to cut improvements in the treatment given to traditional police advice, crimes which traditionally members of the public who need our help, a online motion comics rise when the clocks go back. significant cut in the use of police stations as are being used by the For security tips, safety places of safety, and a reduction in demand on force to show the advice and more information the police and the healthcare system.” ‘heroic’ ways people are on the campaign visit Cllr Phil Townshend, chair of Coventry Police joining in the fight www.westmidsheroes.com and Crime Board, said: “There is a real need for against crime. To sign-up or be part of a this sort of pro-active intervention, and the skills Thousands of comic Neighbourhood Watch that mental health nurses bring will be strip-style posters and scheme near you visit invaluable.” leaflets are being www.ourwatch.org.uk 06 | citivision | december 2014 sport Line up for the city’s half marathon Entries are now open for the Cabinet Member for Events, Decathlon Coventry Half said: “It’s important to get the Marathon which will be 2015 event date out into returning to the city on March people’s diaries as early as 1, 2015. The 13.1-mile run will possible as it provides plenty of start and finish at Millennium time for people to plan their Place and will take runners on training and make sure they closed roads through a loop of sign up for Coventry’s event.” Coventry’s city centre and out Race organisers GO2, who into the beautiful countryside, are working in partnership with culminating in a great downhill the Council to deliver the event, stretch for the final stages of are hopeful of smashing the the run. Decathlon Coventry total of more than 2,000 people will return as the headline who took part in last year’s sponsor for 2015, Stroke race. Businesses can also sign Association will remain the up to take part in the company official charity partner and challenge and a schools Myton Hospices have been challenge. To find out more or named as official local charity to register for the run go to partner. Councillor Abdul Khan, www.coventryhalf.com The shape of sport to come! United approach set to be a matchwinner Council and FA on target at Holbrooks A new Coventry Sports Network has been set up to deliver and lead the Coventry Sports Strategy for the next 10 years. The sports network will work with sporting and community groups to improve sporting structures and increase opportunities for people to take part in sport. Part of the city’s sports strategy includes a Coventry Institute of n Councillor Joe Clifford opens the new facilities, watched by (from left) Sport to provide early n Sporting partners: (back row) Tony Costello of CSW Sport, Paul Oliver Hitchcock of Birmingham County FA, Chloe Guy of Sky Blues in the specialist support Community, Cllr Rachel Lancaster, Jane and John Connolly of Coventrians FC, Breed of Coventry Sports Foundation, (front) Vince Mayne of former Coventry City favourite David Busst, now of Sky Blues in the services for talented Coventry University, Council leader Cllr Ann Lucas and Cllr Abdul Khan. Community, and Alfie Callender, aged nine, and Daryl Assafauh, aged seven, local athletes, and also both of Coventrians FC. proposals to support ‘We are already seeing opportunities for Six new football pitches and Football Development sports clubs, venues and results of this strategy as disabled people, along brand new changing facilities Programme run on site, as part schools to secure it has helped us to bring with the aim of using have been opened in of the Coventry Sports investment into their in over £215k from the sporting activity to Holbrooks Park as part of a Strategy2014 - 2024. community sports Sport England improve people’s overall joint improvement project with The Council worked in facilities. Community Sport health. the Council, the Premier partnership with a number of The CSN represents Activation Fund...’ Cllr Abdul Khan said: League and the FA Facilities partners to secure a grant of a partnership between “We are already seeing Fund. £242,660 following an Coventry City Council, the Coventry results of this strategy as it has helped Improvements include a two application to replace facilities Sports Foundation, Coventry Sports us to bring in over £215k from the room changing room with that were damaged through a Trust, Coventry University, the Sport England Community Sport referee and storage facilities in previous arson attack. Council University of Warwick and Coventry Activation Fund, for the #Ucan project, a central location in the park, officers worked closely with Solihull and Warwickshire Sport (CSW which is currently helping more people security fencing and CCTV and Football League representatives, Sport). in Foleshill to become active through two senior and four junior ward councillors and the FA to The key priorities are to increase taking part in sport.” (9v9) grass pitches which develop plans for the site which participation of children and young Further details of the Coventry include drainage to increase is now open and home to people in sport, to raise the number of Sports Network can be found on the playability. There will also be a Coventrians FC. female participants and further website at www.covsport.org.uk or by encourage and promote sporting following on Twitter @covsport. december 2014 | citivision | 07 arts and culture HMS Diamond crew sparkle at Freedom march past Drumming up recruits for band A call has gone out for new young recruits to join the City of Coventry Corps of Drums. The Corps, which was founded in 1947 and has performed throughout the country, is looking to the future and needs new members – boys and young men aged eight to 21 – to play a drum or trumpet. It doesn’t matter if you can play an instrument or not, the only requirement is enthusiasm and a desire to learn. If you’re interested, contact Commanding Officer Myles Nottingham on 024 7646 0772 or email info@coventrycorps ofdrums.org.uk. You can also visit www.coventrycorpsof HMS Diamond’s ship’s company former Commander of HMS visited University Hospital Coventry drums.org.uk/ for details. marched into Coventry to receive Diamond, received the Freedom and Warwickshire, Jaguar Land Rover their Freedom of Entry to the city Scroll at a ceremony outside the and the Lord Leycester Hospital in Uni strikes gold honour. Commander Andy Ingham, a Council House. The ship’s crew also Warwick. The University of Warwick celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2015 with a series of exciting events on campus and beyond. Scene shifts Theatre’s festive The first group of undergraduate students was admitted in treat for the October 1965 – there were just 450 of them, compared to around to welcome less fortunate 4,000 undergraduates who joined Coventry’s Belgrade Theatre is again the university this autumn. Among increase in asking people to dig deep in support of events to celebrate the families facing financial hardship at anniversary will be the Golden Christmas. The venue’s Give the Gift of Festival of Music on May 21-23 Theatre Campaign aims to provide at least and the Festival of the Imagination turnover on October 16-17, both in and 400 people, referred through Coventry Foodbanks with tickets to a performance around Warwick Arts Centre. To of Aladdin . And to spread the magic of find out more, visit www.warwick at Belgrade panto even further, the Belgrade is asking .ac.uk/about/warwick50 the public to help raise £11,000 by Friday, n The University of Warwick has The Belgrade Theatre’s December 12. To make a donation, call been named The Times and The commercial set building company 024 7684 6758 or visit www.localgiving Sunday Times University of the has achieved record turnover this .com/charity/belgradetheatre. Tickets for Year 2015 – and also rose two year, increasing its earnings from Aladdin, featuring Iain Lauchlan (pictured places to eighth in the UK in the £311,822 in 2012/13 to £414,638 in below) are available at the box office on Good University Guide league 2013/14. 024 7655 3055 (£13.50-£22.25, concessions table. Meanwhile, Coventry Belgrade Theatre Enterprises Ltd now from £10.50) . Family tickets are priced University landed the title of account for 60 per cent of the from £36 to £62. Cheaper tickets can be Modern University of the Year. Belgrade’s annual income, marking a 10 purchased online via www.belgrade.co.uk. per cent increase since 2011/12. The Peace footnote news is part of a bid by the theatre Thérèse Mema Mapenzi from (pictured right) to become less reliant the Justice and Peace on public funding. Commission in the Democratic Belgrade executive director Joanna Republic of the Congo is this Reid said: “We are very proud of the year’s International Peace Prize success that the theatre has achieved. winner. “It has resulted in the Belgrade now The Peace Prize recognises being recognised as one of the leading those with a passion for producing theatres of the country.” reconciliation and a The theatre is also a national leader in determination to change their education through targeted work with communities for the better. young people and local communities. Thérèse, who works to support Over the last year, nearly 10,000 people who have suffered the children, young people and adults aged trauma of sexual violence, was 50-plus participated in workshops praised for providing a safe place carried out via the Belgrade Community and a voice for those affected. and Education Company.

08 | citivision | december 2014 regeneration NEWS bite Can you name Construction of the new bridge deck at Junction 6 of the Coventry Ring Road your local gem? has reached a major landmark, with the In March 2015, West Midlands final delivery and installation of the steel Beams bridge Police will be holding its third beams that will form part of the support annual Diamond Awards structure of Warwick Road and the ceremony. pedestrian boulevard. The annual awards have been A large section had already been Ring Road gap put in place to allow the general formed following the first installation in public, officers, staff, and September, and this next phase finally partners to recognise and shows the full span of the bridge deck. In reward members of the police total, a further 11 pairs of 30-40m long, family who have acted above 40 tonne beams were installed. and beyond what is expected of Cllr Rachel Lancaster, Cabinet them. Do you know any Member for Public Services, said: “We have already made enormous progress on this project with these beams in place we finally have a true impression of the sheer size and footprint of the scheme.” The completion date is planned for is the spring. Work on the bridge individuals and teams that over deck is funded by Regional Growth Fund the last 12 months have made a and European Regional Development significant contribution in Fund grant investment. helping make the West Midlands a safer place to live, work and visit? To enter, complete the electronic nomination form. Alternatively you can download and print a nomination form off the West Midlands Police website at www.west- midlands.police.uk/keeping-you- safe/about-us/diamond- awards/index.aspx NEWS bite High days at Highfield Road recalled Debt warning Disabled care Coventry Citizens’ Advice steps up a gear Bureau has launched its Christmas money campaign, Improved lifelong support for with a call for people to avoid disabled people in Coventry is a debt hangover in the New the aim of a new service Year. launched by the Council and The bureau sees an increase partners. in clients seeking debt advice in The Council and health January, after the festivities are colleagues have created an over. They are encouraging integrated All Age Disability people to decide how much service by bringing together a they can afford and to seek number of teams to improve advice as early as possible if support for disabled people at they are getting into difficulties. different stages of their lives. Useful tips include: The service will focus on n Be realistic and budget supporting children and adults accordingly; with complex disabilities n Remember to pay grouped into three age brackets everyday bills like rent, the – 0-14, 15-25 and 26+. mortgage, utility bills, food bills It aims to provide co- and other existing debts; ordinated multi-agency care n Don’t take out a pay-day which is tailored to residents’ loan or use a loan shark; needs. The new 15-25 age group n Shop around for best transitions team will focus on A plaque to mark the 106-year the site to mark the occasion and prices; supporting young people to tenure of Coventry City Football bring back many memories. n Be organised – there’s a prepare for adulthood. Club at the old Highfield Road Rideout scored the first goal at lot to remember at Christmas. Councillor Alison Gingell, the football ground has been unveiled Highfield Road back in 1899, and If you’ve borrowed money Council’s Cabinet Member for in Signet Square. Mercer the first Football League don’t forget that it won’t be Health and Adult Services, said: Two descendants of former City goal at the ground by a Coventry long before you have to make a “The service will help people players Mark Rideout and Alec City player. payment. Make sure you pay on live more independently and Mercer, along with Lionel Bird, The plaque is situated in Signet time, even if it is only the reduce the need for admissions Coventry City FC historian, met Square, off Thackhall Street, minimum, or you will be faced to specialist placements.” with present-day supporters at Hillfields. with additional charges.

december 2014 | citivision | 09

education year and is in line with the national City toasts average of 60 per cent. Councillor David Kershaw, the still more Council’s Cabinet Member for Education, said: “The top schools quality of teaching and learning in our The number of good or outstanding primary schools is primary schools in Coventry has surged getting better and by 32 per cent in just two years. better.” In 2012, Ofsted reported that just 42 per John Gulson cent of the city’s 84 primary schools were Primary School ranked in the top two categories – the (pictured) , in George smallest proportion in England. Street, was one of the A new strategy was launched to fuel major highest fliers in the improvements in school performance and city, with 72.7 per latest figures show the proportion of schools cent of their 88 now judged good or better by Ofsted has ` 2013/14 left their first year reception children meeting risen to almost 74 per cent. ...and tots off of education either meeting or exceeding expected City primary schools also reported record or exceeding expected levels standards. This is made levels of 11-year-old pupils achieving Level 4 to flying start in maths, literacy, more remarkable by the and above – the government-expected Children are leaving communication and fact that around 90 per cent standard – in their Key Stage 2 SATs. reception classrooms across language, physical of pupils have English as a Results showed pupils’ reading (87 per Coventry’s schools with development and personal, second language. cent), writing (83 per cent) and mathematics improving levels of social and emotional Headteacher Shaukat (84 per cent) attainment at the expected Level development, new figures development. Hussain said: “It is 4+, and writing (31 per cent) and mathematics have revealed. The so-called ‘good level of wonderful to see the (39 per cent) attainment at the higher Level Nearly 60 per cent of development’ rose by 4.1 positive result of their 5+, are the highest in the city’s history. 4,293 reception pupils in per cent compared to last efforts.” New primary Families help shape school for city special schooling Sidney Stringer Primary Parents and carers are now helping Academy will open in Hillfields design the special education for 60 reception-aged pupils in support their children receive in September 2015. school and college. A prospectus and details of New Special Education Needs plans for the new school are and Disabilities (SEND) legislation available on the school’s means families play a central role in website at www.sidneystringer producing new Education, Health n primary.org.uk The Lord Mayor Cllr Noonan is joined by her son and consort Christopher and Care Plans with professionals. The school is offering places (back row, second left) , a former pupil The new plans replaced for children born between of the school, to see progress on the Statements of Special Educational September 1, 2010, and August scheme. With them are the headteacher Needs and Learning Difficulty 31, 2011. and deputy head, the chair of governors, Assessments from September 1, the site manager and pupils. For September 2015 entrants 2014. only, people will need to apply The reforms offer simpler, to Sidney Stringer Primary Lord Mayor gives her seal of approval improved and consistent help for Academy at www.sidneystringer Pupils have been celebrating said: “I was honoured to be children and young people with primary.org.uk by March 6, the final phase of Whitley invited to see the development special educational needs and 2015, and to the Council at Abbey Primary School’s of the scheme. It was disabilities. It also sees help and www.coventry.gov.uk by Extending Pupil Places building fascinating to see how the support offered from birth to 25 January 13, 2015. project. school has changed since my years of age, giving families greater Emma McCann, currently Lord Mayor Cllr Hazel own son attended.” choice in decisions and ensuring deputy headteacher at Stockton Noonan joined staff and The school will gradually needs are properly met. Primary School in students at the school to see move to two-form entry year- A new online portal at Warwickshire, has been the roof placed on the new on-year, and the first additional www.coventry.gov.uk called The appointed to the post of school building. reception class in the new Local Offer will provide principal designate and will take Whitley Abbey Primary purpose-built classroom information for children and young up her new post in January School is one of five schools in started last September. people with special educational 2015. the latest phase of Coventry The extension is due to be needs and disabilities and their Emma said: “I look forward to City Council’s 'Extending Pupil completed at the end of parents or carers in a single place. welcoming the first intake of Places' project. January 2015 and will consist of You can help make sure the Local reception children and to The Lord Mayor has a close six new classrooms, three Offer webpages have the correct developing strong local links attachment to the school, group rooms, a library area, a and most useful information by with parents and carers in the which her son attended. She new hall and a family room. visiting www.coventry.gov.uk coming months.” /localoffer. december 2014 | citivision | 11 12 | citivision | october 2014

health focus City at the forefront Picture round-up of fight to end FGM More than 300 delegates from agencies and community groups across Coventry and the West Midlands joined a major city conference to combat Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). Coventry’s multi-agency Health and Wellbeing Board arranged the conference in a bid to raise awareness of the issue n Council leader Ann Lucas (front, and to encourage communities second right) and Councillor Alison Gingell Trust brings Mouth to actively help eradicate the (front, second left) join other local civic practice. Agencies have been and health representatives to welcome Cancer Action working together to gather Shadow Home Office Minister Seema Malhotra (centre) to the conference. month to Coventry more information about the issue, how it is being addressed, Members of Coventry and barriers in dealing with it, and the Gingell for championing this issue developed a safeguarding Warwickshire Partnership NHS scale of it in Coventry. and believe that with such a strong procedure and a website. Trust’s oral health team have been FGM is a dangerous illegal partnership we can effectively West Midlands Police has helping raise awareness of mouth practice, and communities in support communities to oppose launched Operation Sentinel, an cancer. initiative aimed at protecting the In the UK mouth cancer is Coventry are increasingly speaking ‘It is about neighbours and most vulnerable members of diagnosed in more than 6,500 out against it. Cllr Alison Gingell, communities supporting society, while Coventry University people annually and kills more than who has been leading Coventry’s each other to oppose is a partner in the EU project 2,000 people each year – one death campaign against FGM, said: “It is FGM and protecting girls REPLACE 2 which seeks an every four hours. The oral health about neighbours and communities who may be at risk...’ supporting each other to oppose integrated community-based team has been helping people to be FGM and protecting girls who may the practice.” approach to ending the FGM more aware of the common signs be at risk.” In Coventry between April and practice and symptoms of mouth cancer. The Council has been working September 2014 there have been In addition, the Council’s Female Mouth Cancer Action features closely with Celestineceleste, a 35 women affected by FGM Genital Mutilation Task & Finish the tagline ‘If in doubt, get checked not-for-profit organisation founded accessing midwifery services. Group, set up in 2009, is out’ and urges members of the in 2013 to facilitate awareness of The Local Safeguarding recommending that FGM is tackled public to be mouth aware and act on the effects of FGM. Virginia Children’s Board (LSCB) has been in Coventry by all relevant changes in their mouths. Ringane, founder and manager said working in partnership to address agencies working in partnership to For more information about the “We are very grateful to Cllr FGM locally since 2009. It has implement safeguards. campaign please visit the website: www.mouthcancer.org. For NHS support in giving up smoking, call 024 Community groups in 7696 1590, email smokefree.coventry Coventry came together The Wellbeing team: Helping @covwarkpt.nhs.uk or text QUIT to recently to share their ideas 07768 867987. and achievements with each you look good and feel fine other on how they have promoted wellbeing in their neighbourhoods. The Community Wellbeing Project is funded by Coventry Public Health and is being delivered by Valley House and Grapevine voluntary organisation. It aims to promote good mental health by supporting local grassroots groups to champion Coventry’s 10 Way to Wellbeing. To find out more, call Manjeet Stone at Manjeet Stone, project leader, said: “We Valley House on 024 7658 4899. have worked with a wide range of groups, And the 10 Ways to Wellbeing....? including knitting clubs and reading and They are: 1. Connect, 2. Be active, 3. Take parenting groups. They are fantastic notice, 4. Keep learning, 5. Give, 6. Have examples of how the 10 Ways to Wellbeing rewarding work, 7. Feel safe and good about can improve the health and wellbeing of all where I live, 8. Feel good physically, 9. Eat and Coventry people”. drink healthily, 10. Sleep well. 14 | citivision | december 2014 health focus Free flu vaccination Safe-sex song’s in could save tune with the young A song highlighting the importance of your life young people practising safe sex, written and produced by three Coventry students, is proving a hit on Facebook n Rachael Leslie, who is expecting Rather be safe than sorry was twins, has her free penned by The Northbrook Boys flu vaccination (below) a group of three 16-17 year from Gam Amar, olds from Allesley, Coventry. The pharmacist and song has impressed NHS health owner at Allesley Pharmacy. experts who have decided to include the tune on the NHS Choices website. Since the song was launched

Thousands of people across adult or child with health flu jab, with only 43 per cent of Coventry are being encouraged conditions such as diabetes, those eligible in Coventry and to take advantage of a free flu chronic heart and lung diseases Rugby taking up the offer last vaccination before the winter such as asthma or bronchitis, year. season takes hold. liver or kidney diseases and A nasal spray is available for Around one in three people neurological conditions like children in Years 7 and 8, plus across the city are entitled to a Parkinson’s or Multiple Sclerosis those aged two, three and four. free flu vaccination but many do are eligible. For more information on how on the C-Card Facebook, it has not take up the offer. People Pregnant women in particular to get your flu jab, visit reached in the region of 36,000 aged 65 and over, carers, any are being encouraged to take the www.coventry.gov.uk/flujab. people. The song was the winner in a Coventry City Council competition Dementia strategy launched called the SEX Factor. The idea was to create a campaign that was fun, Coventry’s first-ever dementia strategy has been launched to and that engaged with young people help thousands of people living with the condition across the in a more innovative way. city. The joint partnership document sets out what is currently The competition was run through in place as well as what should be in place for people with social media, using the C-Card dementia, and a framework for partners to use when planning Facebook page, www.facebook.com services. In Coventry, there are thought to be approximately /ccardcoventry To hear the song, go 3,600 people living with dementia and this is set to rise to to www.nhs.uk/Video/Pages/youd- almost 4,000 by 2016. Cllr Alison Gingell, the Council’s rather-be-safe-than-sorry.aspx Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Services, said the strategy sets out the priorities that local people with dementia and their carers have said are important to them. High Street advice Dr Jerry Horn, Clinical Lead for Dementia at NHS Health partners across Coventry n Launching Coventry and Rugby have come together to support the the dementia strategy are Jon Wat ( back row, from left) erman from West Midland Clinical NHS winter campaign Feeling under GP s Fire Service, Dr Jerry Ho clinical lead for dementia rn, Commissioning from the NHS Coventry a the weather? Rugby Clinical Commiss nd ioning Group, ( front) Jani Group, believes the The campaign urges older people from the Coventry ce Connolly Alzheimer’s Society and C Council’s Cab llr Alison Gingell, the city-wide strategy is to seek early advice from their inet Member for Health a nd Adult Services. a major step forward. pharmacist for minor winter illnesses. It is targeted at the over 60s, and also at those who often look after an Advice and support when you need it most older friend, neighbour or relative. Meet the NHS Smokefree Coventry team of Partnership Trust on 0300 200 0011, Stop4Life Pharmacists can give advice on advisors who helped some of the more than on 0800 612 4580, or University Hospital most minor illnesses, especially during 3,000 people in Coventry stop smoking last Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW) on 024 the winter months when they are a year. One in every 16 smokers in Coventry 7696 4760. lot more common. Dr Jane Moore, Director of Public Health in kicked the habit last year with the help of the n QUIT SMOKING today, and it could save you Council-funded Stop Smoking Services, hundreds of pounds, according to new research. Coventry, added: “Local pharmacies according to new research from Public Health Mohammed Patel, Service Lead for Healthy and NHS 111 – the number that is England. This is well above the national Lifestyles at Coventry and Warwickshire free to call from landlines and average, where around one in 29 smokers Partnership NHS Trust, said: “If smokers and mobiles and is available 24 hours a quit the habit in 2013/14. e-cigarette smokers quit now, they could day, 365 days a year – should be your Cllr Joe Clifford, chair of Coventry’s hundreds of pounds to treat themselves or their first port of call if you’re not feeling Smokefree Alliance, said: “The new data is family.” So why not call the NHS Smokefree well.” really positive, our Stop Smoking providers in Coventry team to find out more about the NHS 111 is a national telephone the city are readily available, and have support available on 024 7696 1090, or book service which should be used if you excellent staff.” your first appointment by calling 0300 200 0011, need medical help fast but it’s not a life- For details of the help and support texting QUIT to 07768 867867 or emailing threatening situation. The 999 number available, contact Coventry and Warwickshire [email protected] should still be used if it is an emergency. For details, visit www.nhs.uk/asap or www.nhs.uk/111 december 2014 | citivision | 15

social care technology Spare a home thought for our needy children A campaign to encourage families to give new homes to You don’t have to take it! around 70 children has been highlighted in Coventry. Coventry needs adopters and foster carers and the Council’s Family Placement Service has been explaining to people what is involved in adopting or fostering for Coventry. One of the city’s current adopters is John who, with his partner, adopted two young children earlier this year. He said: “What I would say to prospective parents is that it’s an amazing and thoroughly enjoyable Uni in the fast lane journey. You will learn so much about children, parenting and yourselves. We with hydrogen van have completed the adoption process feeling energised and more confident A hydrogen fuel cell van was showcased by as individuals and stronger in our Coventry University and its spin-off firm Microcab at relationship with each other too.” the Advanced Engineering UK show at Birmingham’s Prospective adopters and foster NEC in November. carers are allocated their own social Microcab (pictured above) , which is based at the worker to guide them through from University’s Technology Park, took pride of place on assessment to placement and have one of the show’s main stands with the commercial access to continued support training van adaptation of its state-of-the-art H2EV – a and resources. hydrogen fuel cell vehicle whose only exhaust Councillor Ken Taylor, the city’s emission is water. The Council has invested an additional £250,000 Adoption and Fostering Champion, The university also used the event to showcase its into new domestic violence and abuse services said: “Coventry children urgently need recently-launched Institute for Advanced providing advice, support and accommodation to people to come forward as adopters Manufacturing and Engineering (AME), a £32+ million more adults and children affected by the issue. or foster carers to enable them to collaboration between Coventry University and This will be supported by key agencies in enjoy their childhood in safe, stable, Unipart Manufacturing which recently secured a Coventry including the police, health agencies and loving homes and to reach their full major R&D role in the development of cleaner and social care amongst others. The Coventry potential in life.” more efficient engines for future Ford models. Domestic Violence and Abuse Support Services To find out more, call the Family Microcab’s pioneering fleet of zero emission demonstrates Coventry’s commitment to ending Placement team on 024 7683 2828 or H2EVs has a 55mph top speed and 180 mile range domestic violence and abuse. Organisations e-mail familyplacementservice@ on a full tank, and is currently participating in the providing care include Refuge, Safe and coventry.gov.uk. You can also visit world’s largest hydrogen fuel cell trial which was Supported Partnership, Fry Housing Trust and www.coventry.gov.uk/adoptionandfost launched in northern Europe this summer. Barnardo’s. To find out more, visit ering or visit the Adopt and Foster for www.safetotalk.org.uk for call the helpline on Coventry Facebook page. Unit goes digital in the 0800 035 5309. fight against cancer A new cancer research unit set up at the Neil honoured Shelter offers warm welcome University of Warwick will use digital Council youth worker The Coventry Winter Night volunteers and financial support technology to try and find new treatments Neil Highway has been Shelter, piloted last year, are needed. Hope Coventry and for the disease. honoured in the relaunched on December 1. A the churches of the city are keen The unit will also bring together National Youth Agency’s partnership of city churches to recruit volunteers from any expertise from mathematicians, physicists latest awards for his under the umbrella of Hope background who would like to and engineers to further develop cancer work with the young Coventry, the Coventry Winter participate in the project. More research. people of Stoke Heath. Night Shelter provided sleeping volunteers are needed to cover Collaborative relationships will also be Neil was instrumental in accommodation for 108 rough- the extended 17-week period set up with researchers and clinicians at developing football sleepers/homeless who from December 1 until March the University of Birmingham and NHS initiatives for young registered last winter. The aim is 31, 2015. To register your partners University Hospitals Coventry and people in his area and to provide shelter, care and interest, visit coventrywinter Warwickshire and University Hospitals raising funds for the warmth to those living on the [email protected] Birmingham. Stoke Heath streets through the coldest To support the work of If you’re passionate about cancer Community Centre, winter nights. The scheme helped Coventry Winter Night Shelter, research and would like to make a Neil is fully deserving of 25 people find more permanent donations can be Gift Aided by difference, please visit www.warwick.ac.uk/ his award. Councillor Ed accommodation. The project is e-mailing your name and address cancerappeal to see how your support Ruane said it was a supported by the Council and to coventrywinternightshelter@ could help save lives. great accolade for Neil. The Salvation Army, but gmail.com december 2014 | citivision | 17

fitness

Winter training

More FREE training sessions for adults and children, courtesy of the Council. To book, go to www.coventry.gov.uk /cycletraining or call 024 7683 1184.

December : 6 (9.45am-noon & 1-3.15pm) , Xcel Leisure Centre, adult beginners (outdoor); 13 (9.45am-noon & 1-3.15pm) , Moat n Cyclists of all ages try out one of the new city cycle routes. House Leisure Centre, adult beginners (outdoor).

January : 17 (9.45am-noon) , Coventry Sports Centre, adult Bonanza for bikers! improvers and advanced (on road); 17 (1.30-3.45pm) , Coventry Sports Cycle Coventry is opening a series of Centre, adult and child beginners new, improved routes over the next (indoor); 24 (9.45am-noon & few months, to help city people get 1-3.15pm) , Woodlands Academy, to key places of work and leisure adult and child beginners (indoor), more easily. adult improvers (on road); 31 The routes, with many traffic-free (9.45am-noon) , Coventry Sports paths, will all be clearly signposted Centre, adult improvers and and numbered to make them easier advanced (on road); 31 (1.30- to follow. 3.45pm) , Coventry Sports Centre, In October, students and staff from adult and child beginners (indoor). the Westwood Academy and Westwood Business Park tested their new route as they rode from the Westwood Academy along Charter Avenue, past Canley Station and along Hearsall Common into the city centre. This was the first route to be completed as part of the project and includes new crossings by Coventry February : 7 (9.45am-noon & Cycle Speedway on Hearsall 1-3.15pm) , Woodlands Academy, Common and also at the Earlsdon adult and child beginners (indoor), Avenue North junction. Before its adult improvers (on road); 14 official completion in August, already (9.45am-noon) , Coventry Sports 300 cyclists a day were recorded using the cyclists and for children with new bikes for Centre, adult improvers and Hearsall Common section of the route with a Christmas! advanced (on road); 14 (1.30- peak of 411 on one day. In March, signed routes heading out of the city 3.45pm) , Coventry Sports Centre, This winter, the improved Sowe Valley traffic- centre to Woodway Park and the Ricoh Arena adult and child beginners (indoor); free route (main picture) will be complete, which will also be complete. 21 (9.45am-noon & 1-3.15pm) , runs from the Ansty Road along the River Sowe Rachel Lancaster, Cabinet Member for Public Woodlands Academy, adult to ‘Wyken Slough’ and also towards Henley Services, said: “These new routes and the free beginners (indoor) and improvers College, where there is a new toucan crossing, cycle training and support we provide will make (on road), child beginners (indoor); and improved path along Henley Road which it easier to cycle in the city. Cycle Coventry is 28 (9.45am-noon) , Coventry Sports links to Alderman’s Green Industrial Estate. The currently working on a number of routes and Centre, adult improvers and Sowe Valley route is already popular with these are being completed over the winter.” advanced (on road); 28 (3-5.15pm) , walkers and is an ideal gentle leisure route for Coventry Sports Centre, adult and child beginners (indoor). n The new cycle route at Hearsall Common. March : 7 (9.45am-noon & 1-3.15pm) , Woodlands Academy, adult beginners (indoor) and improvers (on road), child beginners (indoor); 7 (9.45am-noon) , Coventry Sports Centre, adult improver and advanced (on road); 14 (1.30- 3.45pm) , Coventry Sports Centre, adult and child beginners (indoor); 21 (9.45am-noon & 1-3.15pm) , Woodlands Academy, adult beginners (indoor) and improvers (on road), child beginners (indoor). december 2014 | citivision | 19 what’s on Oh yes it is . . . it’s panto time!

Here are some of the things you can enjoy in and around Coventry during the winter season

NOVEMBER 6 – Christmas Craft Market , Cat on 07501 467560. wonderland grotto at Coombe. Canal Basin (4-8pm) . Craft 14 – Santa’s Toy Workshop , You will meet the elves in the toy Until Jan 10 – Aladdin , The Market with a children’s area War Memorial Park, education workshop and be able to make Belgrade Theatre. This Christmas and Santa’s grotto (free) . Details room in the visitors’ centre your own Christmas crafts to there will be more fun and from [email protected] (10.30am-12.30pm) . Santa’s Elves take home with you while you adventure than ever in store as 6 – Festive Bunting are running behind and need help wait to see Father Christmas. Aladdin attempts to win the heart Workshop , The Herbert finishing off the big sack of toys. Cost £6.95 per child (car parking of the beautiful princess. Great for (10.30am-12.30pm & 2-4pm) . Help them finish the toys and included). Call for availability on the whole family, tickets start Artist and printmaker Amy then take some home for 024 7645 3720. from £8.75. Wilde will help you to design, Christmas. Cost £3 per child. 30-31 – Poos from the Past!, cut and screen print your own Family activity, no need to book. The Herbert (11am, 11.30am, DECEMBER unique bunting. Cost £8. 14 – Christmas Lunch noon, 1.30pm, 2pm, 2.30pm & Until Jan 11 – People of India: Booking is required. Suitable for Cruise on the Coventrian 3pm, £1). Join us for an Photographs by Jason Scott adults. Narrowboat , Swan Lane archaeological dig with a Tilley , The Herbert (free) . An 7 – Little Elves Workshop , Wharf (noon) . Cruise along the difference – learn about people exhibition of three series of Coombe Country Park, visitor Coventry Canal and enjoy a from the past by examining their photographs, taken in India at centre (10am-12pm and 1-3pm) . three-course Christmas dinner. poo! Drop in at the times above different time periods spanning Make stylish and sustainable Details from [email protected] to buy a ticket. If that session is the last 150 years. Christmas decorations from 14 – Christmas in the Park , full you will be given a ticket for Until Feb 1 – The Great War: willow and other natural War Memorial Park, education the next session. Booking is not Coventry’s Story , The Herbert materials. Advance booking room in the visitors’ centre (2- required. Suitable for age 5+. (free) . The exhibition marks the necessary, cost £3. Suitable for 4pm, free) . Come and listen to the centenary of the outbreak of the families. Call 024 7645 3720. carols in the park, and take part JANUARY First World War, and the 15 (until Jan 5) – Winter Walks , in some arts and crafts to experiences of Coventry people Coombe Country Park (10am- decorate your home. Suitable for 10 – Big Bird Breakfast, in the armed forces and on the 4pm, £1 per trail) . Self-guided families – no need to book. Coombe Country Park (10- home front. Go to winter walks, to includes a buy 16 – Herbert Illuminations: Sir 10.45am; 11-11.45am; noon- www.theHerbert.org for more one, get one free hot drinks Gawain and the The Green 12.45pm. £2 per child, under 2s free information. voucher for the Heron’s Café. Knight , The Herbert (12.30- if accompanied by paying sibling). 5 (until 24) – Santa’s Dizzy Day , Purchase trail sheets from the 1.30pm, free). Christmas talk Take part in the RSPB Big Garden The Belgrade Theatre. A fun- Visitor Centre. Suitable for all. with a difference! Booking is Birdwatch by making your own packed experience for children, No booking required. See not required. bird feeders to take home. Meet which will make them laugh, sing website for details. 18-19 – Early Years Play at the information desk outside their favourite songs and get them 11 (also Jan 8) – ensemble Days , The Herbert (10.30- the Visitor Centre five minutes to help Santa out of a tricky 1685 , The Herbert (12.30- 11.30am & 1-2pm, £1) . Play before the session. Suitable for situation. Tickets start from £4.50. 1.30pm, free) . ensemble 1685 is Days gives children aged 1-3 an families. Advance booking and 6 (until 27) – Oh No It Isn’t! , The a singers’ group, based in opportunity to explore and payment essential – call 024 7645 Belgrade Theatre. Back by popular Coventry, which has built a investigate through sensory play, 3720. demand, this brilliant comedy reputation for innovative which encourages creativity. 14 – Hats Off to Led thriller written and directed by encounters with vocal music. Drop in, booking is not Zeppelin, The Belgrade Theatre. acclaimed Coventry writer Nick Booking is not required. required. The UK number one tribute to Walker will bring a mixture of 13 – Christmas Indoor Gift 21 – Wasps v London Irish , the greatest rock band ever. Not emotions. Tickets start at £8.50. Fair , Centre AT7 (noon-5pm). Aviva Premiership rugby, Ricoh to be missed for Led Zep fans or 6 – Christmas Wreath Gift stalls, children’s play area, Arena. For tickets, see of 70’s rock in general. Tickets Workshop , Coombe Country Santa’s grotto (free) . Details www.wasps.co.uk. start from £17.25. Park, visitor centre (1.30-3.30pm) . from [email protected] 22 – Blinging Christmas 15 – Buddy Holly: A Legend Create your own Christmas 13 – Crafty Cat Ceramic Crafts , The Herbert (10.30am- Reborn, The Belgrade Theatre. welcome wreath with natural Christmas , Coombe Country 2.30pm & 1.30-3.30pm, £1) . The UK’s number one Buddy, materials. Refreshments provided. Park, visitor centre (11am-3pm) . Create vibrant decorations Marc Robinson, is joined by The Advanced booking necessary, cost Join The Crafty Cat Paint Your using things that can be found Everly Brothers and Billy Fury £15. Suitable for 16 and over. Call Own Pottery Studio for some at home….. and a little bit of revues for the rock ‘n’ roll show 024 7645 3720. 6 – Christmas festive fun. From snowman glitter and Christmas sparkle! of the year. Tickets start at £17.25. On The Coventrian ornaments to hanging Drop in. Content suitable for 16 – The Simon & Garfunkel Narrowboat , Canal Basin. One decorations this studio has it all. 5+ but all are welcome. Story, The Belgrade Theatre. hour trip on Coventry Canal, to All pieces made on this day will 20 -23 – Santa’s Grotto, Award-winning actor Dean Elliott include a mince pie and glass of be ready to collect from Coombe Country Park, visitor and a full cast tell the compelling mulled wine. Trips are December 20. Advance booking centre (10am-3.30pm) . It’s that story of the greatest musical duo throughout the day and can be necessary, cost from £5. Suitable time of year again, when Santa of all time. Tickets start at £17.25. booked at [email protected] for families. Call Sue at the Crafty and his elves set up a winter 17 – 80’s Mania, The Belgrade

If you’ve an event you’d like listed, contact Citivision , Room 27, The Council House, Earl Street, Coventry CV1 5RR or e-mail [email protected]

20 | citivision | december 2014 For a full list, visit www.coventry.gov.uk/events

NEWS bite End musical Jailhouse Rock , Theatre. To celebrate the 10th featuring original star Mario anniversary of the Agatha Kombou. Tickets start from Christie Theatre Company, And £19.75. Then There Were None is revived 24 – Little Chix , The Belgrade on stage to follow in the Theatre. Hosted by JD from the footsteps of the company’s hugely Free Radio Show, this talented successful tours of Murder on the new tribute act to Little Mix Nile and Black Coffee . Tickets start bring together intricate from £16.25. harmonies and high-energy dance 17 – Berty the Bushcrafter: Fundraising dinner helps routines. Tickets start from Shelter Building, Coombe £13.25. Country Park (10am-noon, 24 – Big Girls Don’t Cry , The £2.50pp, under 5s free if Pakistan schoolgirls Belgrade Theatre. Back at the accompanied by paying adult) . Find Belgrade, the iconic sound of out how to make a shelter in the Frankie Valli and the Four woods using only natural Seasons is recreated in this materials from the park. Meet at feelgood performance. Tickets the information desk outside the start from £19.75. Visitors’ Centre five minutes 26-31 – Dead Simple , The before the session. Suitable for Belgrade Theatre. A suspense families (all children must be thriller based on the book by accompanied) . Advance booking Peter James which has sold over and payment essential – call 024 two million copies. Starring 7645 3720 former Holby City actress Tina 17 – Berty the Bushcrafter: Hobley Tickets start from £16.25. Fire Lighting , Coombe Country 31 – Storytelling Festival, Park (1-3pm, £2.50pp, under 5s Coombe Country Park (10am- free if accompanied by paying adult) . 3.30pm, free entry to storytelling Learn how to make a real fire and trail, other activities will incur from scratch in the woodland small charge) . Coombe celebrates with the help of the team at A fundraising dinner attended of Pakistan. National Storytelling Week in Coombe. Parking charges apply. by the Lord Lieutenant for the The conflict in Afghanistan partnership with Coventry Meet at the information desk West Midlands, has raised has left its marks on KPK, Library Service with a fun family outside the Visitors’ Centre five more than £600 to help girls making the area a mini war festival. Parking charges apply. minutes before the session. and young women in Pakistan. zone, limiting everything for Suitable for families, booking not Suitable for families (all children The event was organised by the residents of this area from required. See www.coventry must be accompanied) . Advance Cllr Abdul Khan, Coventry City the basics of education to .gov.uk/coombe for more details booking and payment essential – Council’s Cabinet Member for health facilities. in January. call 024 7645 3720. Culture, Leisure, Sports, Parks According to media reports, 18 – All the Fun of the Circus , and Events, and Parvez Akhtar, terrorism, floods and FEBRUARY War Memorial Park (10.30am- owner of Fazal's Restaurant in earthquakes contributed to 12.30pm, £3 per child) . Make a Foleshill Road. the destruction of over 3,400 3-7 – The History Boys , The juggling ball and other circus Guests paid £15 for a ticket schools in Khyber Belgrade Theatre. Voted the themed arts and crafts to take for the three course meal and Pakhtunkhwa. nation’s favourite play, Alan home. Meet at the Education all proceeds will now be used Cllr Khan thanked everyone Bennett’s multi award-winning Room at the Visitors’ Centre. to buy computers and books for their contributions and The History Boys is set to return Suitable for families. Drop-in for the young girls and women that they would make a real for 2015, touring the UK in a session (Allow at least 45 minutes to of the KPK (Khyber difference to the girls and major new production opening at complete all crafts on offer) . Pakhtunkhwa Province) area young women in the KPK area. the Belgrade. Tickets start from 19 – Big Bird Lunch Box , War £10.75. Memorial Park (1.30-3pm, £1.50 per 9-14 – Twelve Angry Men , The child) . Have a go at making recycled Theatre. An incredible tribute to great tunes, laugh-out-loud Belgrade Theatre. Following a bird feeders and make some fat the 80s. Over 35 smash hits comedy and powerful insights into record-breaking West End run, balls to take home. Meet at the performed with tributes to what it is to be human, it’s little this powerful new production of Education Room at the Visitors’ Duran Duran, The Human wonder that The Marriage Of Reginald Rose’s gripping Centre. Suitable for families. Drop- League, Kim Wilde and many Figaro is one of the world’s best courtroom thriller has been in session (Allow at least 45 minutes more. Dig out the 80s fashion loved operas. Tickets start from hailed as the “classiest, most to complete all activities on offer) . and party! Tickets start from £17.25. intelligent drama in the West 21 – Nest Box Workshop , £19.75. 22 – Rat Pack Live , The End”. Tickets start from £17.25. Coombe Country Park (10am- 19 – Vampires Rock: The Belgrade Theatre. During their 50s 14 (until Feb 22) – Heron Trail , noon, £10 per box) . Make a nest Final Countdown , The Belgrade and 60s heyday they defined cool. Coombe Country Park (10am- box for your garden during Theatre. Steve Steinman and a full Their mix of big band swing and 4pm, £1) . Discover more about National Nest Box Week. Meet at cast of superb singers, dancers charisma was infectious and you Warwickshire largest heronry as the information desk outside the and band blast their way through can now relive this with Rat Pack the Grey Herons flock to Visitors’ Centre five minutes rock classics. Tickets start from Live. Tickets start from £19.25. Coombe to mate. Suitable for before the session. Suitable for £19.75. 23 – The Elvis Years , The families, booking not required. families (5 years+). Advance 21 – Marriage of Figaro , The Belgrade Theatre. An outstanding 16-21 – And Then There booking and payment essential Belgrade Theatre. Bursting with concert production of the West Were None , The Belgrade – call 024 7645 3720.

december 2014 | citivision | 21 your council

Cllr Ann Lucas OBE: Call 024 7683 1103 for Cllr Damian Gannon: For an appointment I BABLAKE an appointment or e-mail ann.lucas@ call 07725 536259 or e-mail Cabinet Members coventry.gov.uk Surgery on first Monday of [email protected] Cllrs Galliers and Kershaw hold regular each month 9.30-10.30am at Holbrook Cllr Ann Lucas OBE, Leader surgeries: Coronation Club, Keresley Rd Health Centre, Wheelwright Lane. I UPPER STOKE noon-1pm on the first Saturday of the month, Policy and Leadership Good Honest Food Company, Gardenia Cllr Philip Townshend , Deputy Leader, I LONGFORD Cllr Kamran Caan: For an appointment or Drive, Allesley Village, last Tuesday of the Policing and Equalities home visit, call or text 07730 111101, or month or contact them directly as below: (Deputy, Cllr Colleen Fletcher) Cllr Linda Bigham: First Friday of every e-mail [email protected] Cllr David Galliers: 07973 780871 Cllr Damian Gannon , month 3.30-4.30pm at Longford Cllr Sucha Bains: Barras Green Social Club, e-mail [email protected] Strategic Finance and Resources Primary Care Centre, Longford Rd, and Coventry St, between 12 noon-12.45pm twitter @davidgalliers 5.30-6.30pm at Scout Headquarters, every Saturday or call 024 7645 9484. Cllr Ed Ruane , Children and Young www.facebook.com/AllesleyCoundonAnd Aldermans Green Rd. Last Friday of Cllr Colleen Fletcher: For an appointment People Keresley www.bablakelabour.com every month 6-7pm at St Thomas’ Parish text 07939 111992, (will be happy to call Cllr David Kershaw CBE, JP, Education Cllr David Kershaw CBE, JP: 024 7671 1107 Church Hall, Longford Rd. Please call 024 you back) or call 024 7683 1039 or e-mail (Deputy, Cllr Dave Chater ) or 07850 664576 or e-mail 7636 0898 to make a surgery appointment. [email protected] Cllr Kevin Maton , david.kershaw@ coventry.gov.uk Cllr George Duggins: Second Saturday of Business, Enterprise and Employment Cllr Jaswant Birdi: first Monday of month every month 12-1pm at Bell Green I WAINBODY from 5-6pm, Allesley Village Hall, Birmingham (Deputy, Cllr John McNicholas ) Community Centre, Old Church Rd and Cllr Rachel Lancaster , Public Services Road. Second Tuesday of month from 1.15-2pm at Royal Hotel, Old Church Cllr John Blundell: Call 024 7683 1276 10.30am-noon, Good Honest Food Company, Cllr Abdul Khan , Rd. Second Sunday of every month (weekdays) or 024 7641 9794 (evenings and Culture, Leisure, Sports, Parks and Events Gardenia Drive, Allesley Village.Call 024 7644 11.30am-1pm at Bell Green Club, Roseberry weekends) or e-mail john.blundell@ Cllr Alison Gingell , 9698 or e-mail [email protected] Ave or call 024 7683 1039 (day) or e-mail coventry.gov.uk for an appointment; will [email protected] gladly visit. Health and Adult Services I BINLEY & WILLENHALL Cllr Lindsley Harvard: First Saturday of Cllr Gary Crookes: For an appointment (Deputy, Cllr Kamran Caan) every month 10.45-11.45am at Scout call 024 7683 1101 (day) or 024 7646 1777 Cllr Faye Abbott , Cllr Dave Chater: For an appointment or Hut, Aldermans Green Rd and (after 6pm) or e-mail Community Development, Co-operative home visit call 024 7667 2619 or 11.45am-12.45pm at Bell Green Community [email protected] and Social Enterprise 07759 062733 or e-mail Centre, Old Church Rd. First Sunday of Cllr Tim Sawdon: Call 024 7683 1101 (day) [email protected] every month 12pm at the Church or 024 7641 5771(after 6pm) or e-mail Cllr Ram P Lakha OBE: For a home visit or Hall, St Thomas’ Parish Church, Longford [email protected] Committees appointment call 024 7683 1039 or e-mail Rd, and 12pm-1pm at Bell Green Club, [email protected] or Roseberry Ave. Call 024 7667 5717, or e-mail I WESTWOOD Audit and Procurement [email protected] [email protected] C Cllr David Galliers DC Cllr Sucha Bains Cllr John Mutton: Call 024 7683 1039 Cllr Maya Ali: Please call 07949 653 656 or Ethics for an appointment or advice. I LOWER STOKE e-mail [email protected] and Cllr Ali C Cllr Patricia Hetherton will endeavour to visit you. Licensing and Regulatory I CHEYLESMORE Cllr John McNicholas: If you have a Cllr David Skinner: Call 024 7683 1101 C Cllr Patricia Hetherton DC Cllr Lindsley problem, need help or advice. I can visit you (day) or 024 7646 8106 (out of hours) or Harvard Cllrs Bailey and Noonan hold regular in your home and be contacted on 024 7683 e-mail [email protected] Planning surgeries: Cheylesmore Community Centre 1039 (day), 024 7650 4037(evenings) or Cllr Richard Sandy: For an appointment C Cllr Hazel Sweet DC Lynnette Kelly 6.30-8pm on last Wednesday of each month e-mail [email protected] call 024 7683 1039 or e-mail Scrutiny Co-ordination (except December) or contact them directly “We’ll be down your way soon” [email protected] C Cllr Tony Skipper DC Cllr Joe Clifford as below: Cllr Phil Townshend: Call 024 7683 1034 Finance and Corporate Services Cllr Roger Bailey: Call 024 7683 1101 (day) (day) for details of surgeries or e-mail I WHOBERLEY (Scrutiny Board 1) or e-mail [email protected] [email protected] Cllr Hazel Noonan (Lord Mayor): C Cllr Richard Sandy Cllr Catherine Miks: Call 024 7683 1039 or Cllr Dan Howells: If you require help or Education and Children’s Services Call 024 7683 3048 (day) or 07415 534274 or e-mail catherine.miks@ advice I can visit you in your home or at a (Scrutiny Board 2) 024 7650 5109 (evenings) or e-mail coventry.gov.uk time and place convenient to you. To [email protected] C Cllr Jayne Innes arrange an appointment call 07540 083974 Business, Economy and Enterprise Cllr Richard Brown: Call 07983 383627 I RADFORD or e-mail [email protected] or 024 7683 1039 or e-mail Cllr Jayne Innes: Surgeries every fourth (Scrutiny Board 3) [email protected] Cllr Mal Mutton: First Friday of every Saturday of the month except December, C Cllr George Duggins month, Daimler Green community Centre, July and August from 12 noon at Allesley Communities and Neighbourhoods I EARLSDON 6.30pm-7.30pm. Call 024 7630 4497 or Park Library. Also you can ring 02476 405 (Scrutiny Board 4) 024 7683 1039 for an appointment or 132 or email [email protected] C Cllr Bally Singh Cllr Allan Andrews: Happy to help where I e-mail [email protected] for an appointment or home visit outside Health and Social Care can. Will visit at home or the Council House. Cllr Keiran Mulhall: Every Tuesday at these times. (Scrutiny Board 5) Please call for an appointment on Radford Social Club, 226, Radford Rd, CV6 Cllr Bally Singh: Regular Surgeries are held C Cllr Steven Thomas 024 7683 1276 or 07534 972383 or e-mail 3BQ from 6.30-7.30pm. Also Radford Social every third Saturday of the month 10am- [email protected] Club on the first Sunday of the month noon at St Mary Magdeline Centre, Sir C = Chair DC = Deputy Chair or follow on twitter @allanandrews 11.30am-12.30pm. Or call 024 7683 1039 for Thomas White Rd. Also morning chat every Cllr Michael Hammon: (Deputy Lord an appointment. first Friday of the month 8.30-9am at Stoke Mayor): Call 024 7683 3048 for an Cllr Tony Skipper: Available to see Radford Bakery, Allesley Park. Call 07779 256898 for Coventry MPs appointment or e-mail residents at Coventry Coachmakers’ Club, an appointment, or e-mail bally.singh@ Bob Ainsworth MP [email protected] 72 Radford Rd, CV1 4BY. To make an coventry.gov.uk Coventry North East Cllr Ken Taylor OBE: Call 024 7667 3717 appointment or to leave a message, call Call 024 7622 6707 for an appointment. 024 7683 1039. I WOODLANDS e-mail [email protected] Jim Cunningham MP I FOLESHILL I ST MICHAEL’S Cllrs Hetherton and Thomas hold regular Coventry South surgeries on the fourth Friday of each Call 024 7655 3159 Cllr Tariq Khan: For an appointment call Cllr David Welsh: First Saturday of each month at Tile Hill Library, Jardine Cres from e-mail [email protected] 024 7683 1039 or 07415 534267 or month, 12-1pm at the Redeemed 5-6pm. Geoffrey Robinson MP e-mail [email protected] Christian Church of God (former Howitzer Cllr Patricia Hetherton: Please call 07985 Coventry North West Cllr Abdul Salam Khan: Call 024 7683 Club), Albert St. Third Friday of each 811881 for an appointment or e-mail Call 024 7625 7870 1030 (day) or 07903 847160 or e-mail month, 3-4pm at the Regeneration Office, [email protected] e-mail [email protected] [email protected] 121-124 Far Gosford Street. Call 07956 307 Cllr Steven Thomas: For an appointment Cllr Malkiat Auluck: First and last Tuesday of 437 or e-mail [email protected] call my residents’ hotline 07535 423796 or the month 4.30-6.30pm at Indian Community Cllr Naeem Akhtar: Surgeries every first email [email protected] European MPs Centre, Cross Rd or call 024 7663 7965 for Tuesday of the month, 5-6pm at Hillfields Cllr Julia Lepoidevin: For an appointment, an appointment. Youth Centre, Yardley St. For an appointment call 024 7683 1276 (day), 07944 458 751 or West Midlands Region call 07747 003141or e-mail naeem.akhtar@ e-mail [email protected] UKIP I HENLEY coventry.gov.uk. James Carver. Bill Etheridge. Jill Seymour. Cllr Jim O’Boyle: Second Saturday of each I WYKEN LABOUR Cllr Lynnette Kelly: Call 024 7683 1039 or month, 12-1pm at Zeenat Restaurant, Neena Gill. Sion Simon. e-mail [email protected] Cambridge St, Hillfields, fourth Saturday Cllrs Thay, Abbott and Sweet hold surgeries Cllr Kevin Maton: Call 07941 827229 or of month, noon at Transport House, Short every third Friday of the month, 6.30- CONSERVATIVE e-mail [email protected] St. Call 024 7669 4873 or 024 7683 7.30pm at Wyken Working Men’s Club, Philip Bradbourn. Anthea E J McIntyre Cllr Ed Ruane: Call 07817 218137 or 1039, or e-mail jim.o’[email protected] Ansty Rd, Wyken. For details, visit www.europarl.org.uk e-mail [email protected]. Cllr Robert Thay: For an appointment call I SHERBOURNE 07875 031851or email I HOLBROOK [email protected] Cllr Seamus Walsh: Call 07956 546983 or Cllr Faye Abbott: For an appointment call Police Commissioner Cllr Joe Clifford: Every Wednesday, 6.30- 024 7683 1039 (day), or e-mail 07944 996294 or e-mail faye.abbott@ West Midlands Police and Crime 7.30pm at Holbrook Community Care Assoc, [email protected] coventry.gov.uk Commissioner Holbrooks Lane. Call 024 7646 5315 or e- Cllr Alison Gingell: For an appointment call Cllr Hazel Sweet: For an appointment mail [email protected] 024 7683 1002 or e-mail or home visit call 024 7661 6273 or David Jameson Cllr Rachel Lancaster: Call 024 7636 0021, [email protected] e-mail [email protected] 0121 626 6060 024 7683 1002, or e-mail rachel.lancaster@ For details, visit www.westmidlands coventry.gov.uk for an appointment. -pcc.gov.uk

22 | citivision | december 2014