Our City p1 15/5/14 09:11 Page 1

Stoke-on-Trent ISSUE 36: SUMMER 2014

Poppy pride CHILDREN’S PLANTING PROJECT TO HONOUR FIRST WORLD WAR Page 13 Our City p2 15/5/14 14:08 Page 1

2 Our City SUMMER 2014 Great news as expert voices point to city’s UniQ brighter future By City Council Leader lift off Councillor MOHAMMED PERVEZ

I’M passionate about Stoke-on-Trent’s future and determined to deliver on our promises of jobs, growth and a higher national profile for our city. Of course, you’d expect me to say that. No matter how much conviction I have in my beliefs, people always say I’m just doing my job in talking up Stoke-on-Trent. But when a top Government advisor talks up Stoke-on-Trent’s potential for expansion and being a major contributor to the UK economy, some of you might listen a bit more closely. Jackie Sadek, who chairs the influential Improvements to would make lobbying and advisory organisation it the gateway to the University Quarter. Regeneration UK, was last month appointed policy adviser to Cabinet Office Minister for Cities Greg Clark. She used a recent blog post for leading property investment journal Estates Gazette to Townscape schemes to support campus expansion praise Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s “transformational programme of economic, urban and social change.” raft of improvements worth She had visited our city’s exhibition at the up to £5million are being The university’s MIPIM property investment showcase in the Aplanned by the council to Stoke campus is South of France and said she was impressed help transform the University set for an exciting by Stoke-on-Trent’s appetite to deliver Quarter. expansion. economic growth. She wrote:“Stoke has a Councillors have committed to support beleaguered history as something of a University’s expansion problem child. But I firmly believe those days following the organisation’s decision to are over.The team I met from there nowadays move the majority of its Stafford-based are a go-ahead mob.” campus to Stoke-on-Trent in the summer She suggested our city ought to be a front of 2016. The university is expected to spend at runner in the race for “Garden City” status, least £40million on the next phase of which would be a massive boost for housing works while the council has earmarked a construction to meet demand. total of £5million over the next four She added: “Not only does (Stoke-on-Trent) years in support of the expansion. have the sites and the connectivity, it has the External funding will also be sought to advantage over many of its competitors with help take forward the exciting project. its vast capacity to produce energy through its Improvements to be funded by the District Heat Network. It has the spaces and it council include: has the juice.” ● Strengthening the “City Centre These words come at a time when an spine” – the core routes linking University’s expansion plans are hugely accelerate regeneration in our growing transformational and will see millions of University Quarter. We look forward to influential national survey named Stoke town, Stoke Station and the City Centre, with improvements to pounds invested in Stoke-on-Trent, with continuing to work in partnership with Stoke-on-Trent among the fastest growing more students, more teaching staff and the university as their plans develop.” cities in the country. the links between the university’s College Road and Leek Road more people spending money in city Vice A partner of the chartered accountants who shops. It is a massive boost for our Chancellor Professor Michael Gunn carried out the work said: “Stoke-on-Trent has campuses. ● economy and is very much welcomed. welcomed the backing from the council. consistently attracted major employers to the Landscaping and creation of shared “It demonstrates Stoke-on-Trent’s He said: “The university welcomes open spaces on College Road. area, boosting job creation and the local growing reputation as a university city Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s intention ● economy. Improvements to Winton Square, and our commitment to ensuring young to invest in the University Quarter directly opposite the railway “With its prime geographical position and people are able to achieve their which we feel can only benefit students, station, making it a gateway to the good transport links, Stoke-on-Trent has maximum potential in gaining education residents and visitors to the city’s University Quarter as well as the and skills at the highest level locally. education hub.” become a major logistics hub.This has city – in keeping with its provided a new source of prosperity.” “We are committed to making For further information go to: conservation area status. Stoke-on-Trent a core city between stoke.gov.uk/universityquarter So don’t take my word for it! Listen to the ● Developing a car parking strategy Birmingham and Manchester, and our voices from around the country, the expert to identify short, medium and Mandate for Change is centred on FRONT COVER: our cover picture voices who say Stoke-on-Trent’s story really is long-term car parking site bringing jobs and growth to our city. one of growth and future prosperity. shows Mitchell Green and Jelavie opportunities. “Our investment in support of Ewowo, pupils at New Ford Primary It’s not just words. It’s good news for Councillor Ruth Rosenau, Cabinet Staffordshire University’s expansion will School, planting poppy seeds to mark everyone who lives and works here! Member for Regeneration, Planning and help to pave the way for major the centenary of the Great War. Transportation, said: “Staffordshire transformational changes which will

Live webcast of full council meetings Give us your feedback on this issue of MEETINGS of the full council can now be viewed online.To see and hear Web: stoke.gov.uk Our City by emailing Our City is printed on the debates and decisions which affect life in Stoke-on-Trent, visit recycled paper.When Facebook: facebook.com/ [email protected] stoke.gov.uk and click on webcasting. you have finished with stokeontrent.citycouncil this publication please A list of dates and times of council meetings and committee meetings or write to: help the environment Twitter: @SoTCityCouncil by passing it on to a can be found on our website at stoke.gov.uk/meetingdates FREEPOST Our City. friend or recycling it. twitter.com/SoTCityCouncil Our City p3 15/5/14 09:37 Page 1

SUMMER 2014 Our City 3 Projects will be delivered over next ten years

UNDER Powerhouse Central a number of major projects will be delivered in the next 10 years.They include: ● The Stoke-on-Trent District Heat Network, the UK’s first large-scale geothermal project, powering businesses and up to 1,000 homes in the centre of Stoke-on-Trent. ● Creation of a smart energy network demonstrator at Keele University to test cutting edge energy and carbon reduction technology. ● Harnessing energy from the Four Ashes waste plan in South Staffordshire and a new power station at DEAL DONE: Pictured at the official City Deal signing ceremony are, left to right, outgoing Stoke-on-Trent Meaford to supply local and Staffordshire Local Enterprise Partnership Chairman Ron Dougan, Council Leader Councillor Mohammed business. Pervez, Minister for Cities Greg Clark and Staffordshire County Council Leader Councillor Philip Atkins. ● Innovation and support programmes to aid small-to-medium sized business and help them turn ideas into products. Powerhouse deal to create ● Pilot programmes and investment to create 3,900 apprenticeships, 1,100 traineeships and skills training for 9,000 big economic growth jobseekers. ● Development of six key USINESS leaders and ambition. Addressing the cost or existing businesses to expand a jobs and growth bonanza over sites in future negotiations predict an historic and stable supply of power tackles into and support businesses to the next 10 years.” with Government – Etruria BCity Deal will put one of the biggest challenges for innovate and develop the next Staffordshire Chambers of Valley, Keele University local manufacturers while generation of products or Commerce Chief Executive Sara Science and Business Park, Stoke-on-Trent and safeguarding jobs and enabling materials. Williams said: “The chambers Staffordshire in a fantastic Meaford, Branston Locks thousands more to be created. Councillor Pervez said: “The have supported the City Deal from and Lichfield. position for future Other key measures include deal vindicates all that the city the word go, and we are proud to economic growth. bringing schools, colleges and council and its partners are doing have been part of the team that Councillor Pervez said:“Our The deal, called Powerhouse universities together with to make Stoke-on-Trent and pitched the case to Government. city’s bold plans will build Central, will see the Government employers to make sure people Staffordshire the choice We always thought this would be on our growing reputation commit £30.9million to the area, have the right skills and training as destination for business and fantastic recognition of the for knowledge-based with the potential to unlock well as creating thousands of inward investment. This is an changes in Stoke-on-Trent to commercial enterprise to around £113million of public and apprenticeships and traineeships. overwhelming endorsement of our enable us to make a significant transform the city into one private sector investment. It will also develop sites work and it shows that difference. of the UK’s most important It is built around unique plans for new Government has “Energy is fundamental to the hubs for renewable energy to supply locally-produced, businesses confidence growth of our area and to be able research and manufacturing. sustainable energy to major in us to to give businesses that are already “By taking greater control deliver here and new businesses attracted employers and will provide Goodwin over skills, training and support to create more than to the area guarantees on some careers advice provision 20,000 skilled jobs over the plc Chairman energy security, supply, and next 10 years. John Goodwin knowledge that we are at the today we can ensure that the The programme will be with the Minister cutting edge of sourcing energy is high-value jobs of tomorrow delivered by the city council, during a tour of the a great incentive.” will be filled by people from Staffordshire County Council engineering The announcement was signed Stoke-on-Trent and and the Stoke-on-Trent and company’s at Hanley-based precision Staffordshire.” Staffordshire Local factory. engineering company Goodwin Enterprise Partnership, plc. Company Chairman John ● Plans to develop a Goodwin said: “It is excellent working with more than 40 geothermal District Heat businesses and partners. that the Government is Network could reduce energy Council Leader, passing control of economic Councillor Mohammed development to the local bills. It involves drilling deep Pervez joined key figures councils who are probably into the ground in order to from the city and county to best placed to assess their access the earth’s heat put pen to paper on the areas’ needs. We are very energy. historic agreement with lucky in Stoke-on-Trent that Hot water is pumped to the Government Minister Greg our council is clued up to surface where it can be used Clark. business, and realises that they to heat homes and It follows detailed have to make the city businesses or be converted negotiations to secure the competitive. That includes the into electricity. best package possible for the energy equation, and it is great Up to 11 kilometres of area. Subsequently, the news that they are doing a good heating pipes will be laid job.” Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire around Etruria Valley, the deal is the biggest of all second For more information go to: wave City Deals in terms of direct stoke.gov.uk/citydeal City Centre, Hanley and Stoke cash from Government and over the next four years. recognises and rewards the ■ New LEP chief urges minister to Eventually this could become partners’ track record of delivery back key funding bid – see page 30. a citywide heating network. Our City p4 15/5/14 15:44 Page 1

Work is moving apace at the Smithfield development site in the City Centre.

Tenant interest is rising quickly NTEREST in the prime an announcement will be made on ahead allows people to understand the weekdays, Smithfield is designed to offer Smithfield development site another landmark tenant in the coming scale and quality of this development. a vibrant nightime scene and lively Iin the City Centre is rising as months. “Smithfield will become a landmark weekend events. quickly as the framework of Work is also underway to attract other for our city and an important gateway For more information go to: which raises the bar for the whole city stoke.gov.uk/centralbusinessdistrict or landmark council offices which tenants including offices, shops, bars and restaurants and a hotel. centre.We are creating the right genr8developments.com/project- will be open in summer 2015. Construction has progressed well after conditions to make our city one of the delivery/stoke/ The striking, multi-coloured office best places to bring business and cranes arrived on site earlier this year, ● Representatives from a wide range of building and another block will provide with steelworks for the council buildings investment, so that we create more jobs faiths across the city held a communal 210,000 sq ft of space and be home to rising rapidly. for local people. Smithfield is at the very 1,700 members of council staff. City Council Leader Councillor heart of this work. Since work started prayer session on the Smithfield site to Developers Genr8 are receiving Mohammed Pervez said: “It’s great to the whole scheme has a new impetus give it their blessing. Representatives of all positive interest as the site starts to take see cranes on site and buildings rising and interest has risen.” religions and denominations attended the shape, and, although talks are from the ground. There were sceptics As well as providing a great working ceremony, which was organised by the confidential at the moment, it expects but seeing construction work racing and shopping environment during Saltbox Christian Centre. Our City p5 15/5/14 10:11 Page 1

SUMMER 2014 Our City 5 Vital decision makers listen to our credible case for HS2

By City Council Chief Executive John van de Laarschot

THE council team has worked hard to produce a credible, robust plan to bring a high speed rail station to Stoke-on-Trent, and the fact that we’ve now presented our proposal to the Secretary of State who will make the final decision – as well as the chairman of HS2 Ltd – shows our bid is still on track. In spite of what you might have heard or read, it’s not a done deal and we certainly left HS2 Chairman David Higgins and Secretary of State for Transport Patrick McLoughlin MP with some serious food for thought. GLIMPSE OF THE FUTURE... Can they really ignore a bid that’s significantly how a high speed train cheaper, supports a new super-economy might look as it speeds connecting the Midlands and North West, through Stoke-on-Trent. delivers the London to Manchester link seven years earlier and reduces ’s impact on the environment in Staffordshire? Our meetings were a golden opportunity to put forward our strong case... and it was made E-petition supports City’s compelling arguments quite clear to us at both meetings that a ORE than 1,500 before the consultation submissions have and make Stoke-on-Trent a prime decision has yet to be made and there is campaigners in the city been properly assessed. HS2 is much investment location. And it would do all everything to play for. That’s why we have put so much hard work Mand beyond have sent a more than just a railway. It’s a route to this with far less impact on the supercharging the regional and national countryside and the environment.” into producing a bid that’s credible, and making clear message to 10 Downing economy. Urging people across the country, sure our voice has been heard. Street – an HS2 station should be “Our case has been described as including people in Cheshire and Crewe And that’s why we will continue to press the built in Stoke-on-Trent. impressive and compelling. As one of the to sign the petition too, he said: “We can case for an exciting development which would The e-petition to Prime Minister UK’s major cities and the biggest urban deliver a much bigger punch for UK Plc not only put Stoke-on-Trent 55 minutes from David Cameron calls on the Government conurbation between Manchester and at a much lower cost to the public purse London, but would also link our region’s to include the city in its plans for the Birmingham we can provide the vital link and the environment. That’s really business to European markets and enable our multi billion pound high speed rail to a new super region connecting the important for everyone – wherever you city to supercharge the UK economy through job Midlands and the North. Nowhere else live. Especially people living in the line of network. creation and growth. Council Deputy Leader, Councillor can do this so effectively. The Stoke-on- the proposed Crewe route. Paul Shotton said the Government Trent option would be the best way to “So let the Prime Minister know you It’s an exciting prospect, but there is also so needed to wake up to Stoke-on-Trent’s boost the UK economy, releasing the are positively on board for an HS2 much more to look forward to. massive economic potential and ensure city’s enormous growth potential. station in Stoke-on-Trent. Let him know We’ve stepped up to a serious challenge in the the competition is open and fair. Stoke-on-Trent provides so much more that this really is the best option for the face of lower budgets and growing aspirations Councillor Shotton said: “We need in terms of connectivity to growth, with city, the region, UK Plc and the from our residents. people to stand up for Stoke-on-Trent a direct high speed link to a environment. We’ve moved mountains over the last 12 and convince Government to make the marketplace of eight million people. “Once you have signed please pass this months and the work we have put in has the right choice. This consultation should be “HS2 would supercharge the economy on to your family and friends. Let’s get potential to change the lives of everyone who about getting it right for the nation – this making the city an international player, everyone on board for a high speed lives and works in the city. is the best deal for UK plc. right at the heart of a new super-region journey into future prosperity for We have secured a significant financial “HS2 needs to deliver benefits for the connecting Manchester and Birmingham. Stoke-on-Trent and the UK. If ever there commitment from central government for a North earlier and it needs a station It would rebalance the UK economy. was a time to make a difference for the City Deal which will create and safeguard That’s exactly what the Government between Manchester and Birmingham. future of the city – this is it.” thousands of jobs and enable us to establish “However, HS2 boss Sir David Higgins wants HS2 to do. Anyone wishing to add their name The Stoke-on-Trent District Heat Network, has said he thinks the rural town of “It would create tens of thousands of to the petition should visit Crewe is the place for a station – even new jobs, boost property and land values, epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/62199 generating 45 GWh of heat energy per year. We have also started the construction of the Smithfield site in the City Centre, creating a core central business district, which will generate up to 4,500 jobs, and worked with partners to HS2 Stoke-on-Trent: the facts and the timetable increase the number of apprenticeships in the ■ Stoke-on-Trent submitted a Stoke-on-Trent wants a level playing 3. Maximum growth, connecting and city from 4,571 in 2010-11 to 6,156 in 2012-13. comprehensive response to the HS2 field with the same national resources supercharging the space between We can achieve so much – but only by everyone pulling together.The council will not Consultation on 31 January 2014. focused on assessing its case as those Birmingham and Manchester to rebalance the UK economy. only be doing more to encourage collaborative ■ The Government is committed to being directed to Crewe. working with partners, but also with the people 4. Significant reductions in green field making a comprehensive assessment ■ The Stoke-on-Trent proposal is and businesses of our city, to build on these and wider environmental impact. of all the options and is likely to make highly compelling and would deliver: achievements. a decision on stations and route by 5. An international HS2 station at the Everyone can help to make things better and the end of the year. 1. HS2 services to Manchester seven heart of the city, with direct HS2 there are lots of stories in this magazine about years earlier. local people doing their bit for our city. If you’ve ■ The Department for Transport has connectivity north to a super got a great community story to tell, let us know said Stoke-on-Trent makes a good 2. Significant savings for the tax payer economy of over eight million people. by writing to us (no stamp needed) at FREEPOST, and connections to the North West case and that the option is still firmly For more details of the Stoke-on-Trent OUR CITY or emailing [email protected] on the table. and Manchester Airport by 2033. HS2 submission go to stoke.gov.uk/hs2 Our City p6 15/5/14 10:13 Page 1

6 Our City SUMMER 2014 Have your say on the future of Children’s Centre ONSULTATION is under way the library is very popular and is already a over proposals to relocate one-stop-shop, so families can access welfare CPenkhull Children’s Centre in and benefits advice, pay bills, use the computers and do lots of other things while a bid to encourage more families to also accessing Children’s Centre services.” make use of the services it provides. Jaime explained that the three options in Around 12,000 leaflets outlining the plans the consultation leaflet are: have been circulated to homes in the four wards Move all Penkhull Children's Centre that surround the existing centre. services to Stoke Library. And city council officials are urging as many Move more services to Stoke Library people as possible to have their say by filling-in but maintain some at the existing centre in and returning the questionnaire attached to the Greatbatch Ave, Penkhull. leaflet. Make no further changes and leave Locality Co-ordinator Jaime Wainwright-Jones existing services as they currently are. said only about 50 per cent of the families eligible to make use of Penkhull Children's Jaime added: “It is really important that centre currently did so and she was keen to as many people as possible take part in the reach the other half. consultation, have their say and help us to She said: “The consultation will help us find make the best decision about the way out why the other 50 per cent of families are not ahead. using our services and whether moving to a new “We need to find out what people think location would encourage them to do so. about the current centre.We already know Children’s Centres are about families not some of the views of the people who are buildings and they must be family-led. using it and will encourage existing users “Some of Penkhull's services are already being to have their say, but we need to reach the delivered at Stoke Library and that is proving 50 per cent who are not.” Service users Zeenut Milza with her children Zakariyah, 1 and Hanifah, 2, left, and Heather very successful. Full details of the proposals and an Jenkins and daughter Grace Gorry, right, study the relocation proposals with community “We think this is because there is much easier online copy of the consultation form are access in terms of public transport and because available at stoke.gov.uk/consultations and economic development officer Lisa Ann Leese, centre.

HOW MANY UNITS IN A DRINK? 1 1 1 2 BODY CAMS BOOST unit unit unit units FOR POLICE OPENNESS OFFICERS IN COMMUNITIES ACROSS Small lower-strength Half pint of lower-strength Single small shot of sprits Standard red/white/rose STOKE-ON-TRENT ARE NOW USING BODY alcopop (275ml, ABV 4%) lager/beer/cider (ABV 4%) (25ml, ABV 40%) wine (175ml, ABV 12%) CAMS FUNDED BY POLICE AND CRIME 2 2 2 3 COMMISSIONER MATTHEW ELLIS. units units units units They have been rolled out to all frontline officers, PCSOs and Special Constables in Stoke-on-Trent. The cameras were commissioned by Mr Ellis as part of a major investment in new technology, Pint of lower-strength Can of lager/beer/cider Double measure of sprits Pint of medium-strength which has been welcomed by Chief lager/beer/cider (ABV 4%) (440ml, ABV 4.5%) (50ml, ABV 40%) lager/beer/cider (ABV 5%) Constable Mike Cunningham. They provide vital visual evidence in key 3 3 4 4 investigations and improve transparency when units units units units dealing with the public. They also act as a deterrent when dealing with offenders and can be invaluable when there are complaints against officers.

Large red/white/rose wine Large lower-strength Large higher-strength Can of lager/beer/cider Officers can, at the touch of a button, record video (250ml, ABV 12%) alcopop (750ml, ABV 4%) alcopop (750ml, ABV 5.5%) (500ml, ABV 7.5%) and audio at crime scenes which can then be played directly in court as evidence. Mr Ellis said: “This is part of a major Over the limit, under arrest. The problem with technology plan to free up officer time and create thousands of extra hours drinking and driving is the MOURNING after… of visible policing. “Body cams are about ensuring Don’t rush to get behind the wheel the morning after you’ve everything that’s done is open, been drinking. You may feel fine but you could still be over honest and transparent so that the legal alcohol limit or unfit to drive. public confidence is improved. “They help officers get the www.staffssaferroads.co.uk/gameover best possible evidence, will protect people who are being arrested and save a vast amount of time by providing actual pictorial evidence in court rather than thousands and thousands of words.” Our City p7 15/5/14 10:15 Page 1

SUMMER 2014 Our City 7

PARTNERSHIP WORKING: Council Leader, Councillor Mohammed Pervez, centre, and Chief Executive Kevin Oakes, left, who both supported Haywood Academy’s Town hall sixth successful bid for Government funding for a sixth form centre at ’s old town hall.They are pictured in front of the town hall with Haywood Executive Head form plan gets Teacher Carl Ward with the brochure produced to support their application to the GREEN LIGHT Department for Education. HE Government contribution to Burslem’s has given the green regeneration and will provide a Tlight to Haywood huge shot in the arm for traders in Academy’s ambitious the town. It will give Burslem a new sense of purpose and will £2.1million initiative to undoubtedly attract additional transform Burslem’s investment.” historic old town hall into a Council Leader, Councillor thriving sixth form centre. Mohammed Pervez, said: “This is Work will start this September fantastic news. The Academy and on the conversion, which will see the partners, supported by the the construction of an attractively- Burslem community, have pulled designed two storey teaching off a massive achievement to block. secure this funding and The sixth form – which will commitment. open its doors in September 2015 – has been approved by the Regeneration Department for Education after a “The Mother Town of the lengthy application process. Potteries is a vital part of the city The development is the result council’s regeneration strategy.We of an exciting partnership between are very pleased to lend our full the Academy, main sponsor global backing to this initiative and tableware manufacturer Steelite whole hearted endorse the use of International, The Prince’s Burslem Town Hall.” Charities and Stoke-on-Trent City “This development will go Council, who are also supporting beyond giving more of our the initiative. children and young people a Executive Head Teacher Carl better start in life. It will be a Ward said: “We are absolutely catalyst for the wider regeneration delighted that the Government of the town centre and will attract has supported our vision to much-needed new investment. provide quality education to our “It’s tremendously exciting students from age 11 to 18. to see the iconic town hall “They will no longer leave us at being brought back into such 16 to travel away to study for a dynamic use. And bringing Golden Angel which symbolises Steelite Chief Executive Kevin local education and to foster good A-levels, but will be able to study well over 400 people into the Burslem’s rich history. Oakes said: “As a world leading relationships between education closer to home. We felt we owed it town centre every day will be A range of A-level subjects will manufacturer of tableware in the and industry is vitally important. to our students to give them that a real boost for existing local be taught at the sixth form centre, Potteries, Steelite International is Stoke-on-Trent’s ceramics industry continuity.We are hugely grateful businesses.” which will have strong links with committed to putting something is undergoing a renaissance and we for the invaluable support given to Over 400 A-level students and the Academy based a mile away at back by supporting local initiatives must build for the future. us by Steelite International and associated teaching staff will be High Lane. Sciences will be which have a positive impact on “A thriving Burslem town centre Stoke-on-Trent City Council. based at the sixth form centre taught in the existing labs. our communities. is vitally important to Steelite “But we also thank the five days a week, with facilities In a ground-breaking “We have a long association with International – we’re fiercely students, parents, staff and also open for community use in agreement, global tableware Haywood High School – now proud of the town’s famous members of the community, the evenings and at the manufacturer Steelite Haywood Academy – and we are heritage. including our local MP Joan weekends. International strengthened its absolutely delighted to be a part of “By locating a sixth form centre Walley who have been so Other classrooms and learning links with education and the local the school’s future by sponsoring in the old town hall we will help supportive. resources will be based in the old community by sponsoring the this project. increase footfall in the town and, I “This initiative will be a major town hall building, famous for the centre. “Anything we can do to support am certain, boost its economy.” More support for residents affected by welfare reforms VITAL work to keep residents up to date with “We are also working with organisations campaign to provide increased advice Jam Jar accounts advice. changes to the welfare system is continuing such as Moneywise to help train residents in regarding support available. ■ Referral to other agencies – across Stoke-on-Trent as the council and its money management skills.” ■ Overseeing the improvements to access CAB/Potteries Moneywise. partners develop plans to co-ordinate Actions taken by the WWRG include: and increased support for crisis support ■ Links with Job Centres to assist with support for people experiencing difficulties. ■ The council funding collection crates to from the Social Fund, for residents to finding employment. The Wider Welfare Reform Group (WWRG) collect donated food for Stoke-on-Trent access food package support and also ■ Referrals to Foodbanks/Social Fund. Action Plan has been developed to respond Foodbank, also allowing public facing the provision of fuel top-ups for If you require support for Housing to the impacts of welfare reform. council buildings to be collection points electricity and gas cards to be Benefit, Council Tax Support or additional The council's Assistant Chief Executive for donated food. redeemed by claimants through many ■ help towards your rent (Discretionary Charles Stewart and chair of the WWRG said The soon to be launched affordable local Paypoint sites. Housing Benefit) ring 01782 232982. there was on-going work with partners and loan/credit initiative to allow increased In addition, all council tenants affected by charities to provide support, to advise and access for residents to affordable credit the “bedroom tax” have been contacted and If you need help from the Social Fund ring train people to manage budgets and to as an alternative to costly payday loans offered one-to-one advice. 01782 238888. signpost appropriate places of help. and unregulated lenders. Welfare Reform Officers case manage all If you require support with your council He said “We are working with credit unions ■ Initiatives being developed to increase tenants affected by the reforms by offering: tenancy as a result of bedroom tax or benefit and other affordable lenders to make credit availability of wi-fi access, access to PCs, ■ Basic budgeting/money management cap ring 01782 237870. more easily available to more people in order mobile applications and support with advice. If you are at risk of losing your home or to curb the activities of unregulated using PCs are being progressed. ■ Rent/Council Tax payments advice. require general housing advice call Housing doorstep lenders. ■ Development of a communication ■ Bank accounts/credit unions/ Solutions on 01782 233696. Our City p8 15/5/14 10:23 Page 1

8 Our City SUMMER 2014 Ethel urges people to get INVOLVED OMMUNITY minded to anyone, have a go. people are being urged Ethel’s daughters, Councillor Cto help inject new life Joy Garner and Councillor Debra into residents’ associations Gratton, followed her into public service. Joy said: “Mum and the across the city. association did masses for their The rallying call comes from community over the years. The Ethel Harris who is now putting association had a council flat her feet up after a lifetime of where it used to stage drop-in public service – the last 10 years sessions and they did stuff for the as chair of the now defunct children at Christmas. Greenfields Residents’ “What’s happened to Association in . Greenfields is far from unique. New rules and regulations left Volunteers are now being put the association struggling to find off because of the rules and a treasurer so it folded after a regulations. It’s really sad. 15-year existence. “But I’d echo what my Ethel, a Good Neighbour mum has said. Residents’ award runner-up, said: “I’ve associations are fantastic always tried to help people but for their communities and I’m 83 now so I do deserve a really make a difference so rest. As for the association, it’s a I’d urge people not just to real shame. sit back but to have a “I’d encourage anyone to get go.” involved with residents’ More information: Greenfields Residents’ associations. As a group they can stoke.gov.uk/ Association stalwart help their communities so I’d say residentsassociations Ethel Harris. I’m two and I get 15 hours free childcare! Could you?

To find out about free early education for 2, 3 and 4 year olds call 01782 232200 stoke.gov.uk/beststart Our City p9 15/5/14 10:33 Page 1

SUMMER 2014 Our City 9 Job creation and charity fundraising are high on civic agenda Lord Mayor Majid EW Lord Mayor Nursing Assistant at the Khan with his Councillor Majid University Hospital, and Consorts – his NKhan is determined Sameeya who is studying daughters Tahira, to use his year in office to law at Staffordshire right, and University. Sameeya. encourage business He said: “I am delighted and investment and job very excited to be Lord Mayor for creation in the city as well the year. It’s a very important as support the Donna role, representing the city as First the facility. The staff do a Speaking about his support for November and with a Winter Louise Trust and the Asmir Citizen to businesses as well as fantastic job in giving children the foundation launched by the Wonderland theme, tickets will Begovic Foundation. national and international visitors. end of life care as well as Stoke City goalkeeper Asmir cost £45 each. Councillor Khan came to the “I want to meet as many people providing respite care for their Begovic, he said: “He’s doing a There will be a live band, music UK from Pakistan in 1971 and as I can from all different families. Seeing all this really wonderful job with youngsters in from BBC Radio DJ Jason Hardy moved to Stoke-on-Trent in 1983 backgrounds as I will be touched my heart and it made me the city promoting sport and I and a charity prize draw. to set up a catering business now promoting inward investment and realise the importance of this want to support him in that Anyone is welcome to attend run by his two sons. Married, he job creation for the wider hospice for our city and the work.” the event with money raised going also has three daughters and two community of Stoke-on-Trent. surrounding area. It’s very Meanwhile, plans are underway to the Lord Mayor’s charities. grandsons. “My main charity during the important for these children to for this year’s Lord Mayor’s Ball Those wishing to buy a ticket or Elected a councillor in 2010, he year is the Donna Louise Trust. I enjoy life as much as they can and at the traditional venue of the donate a prize are asked to call will be supported as First Citizen visited the hospice a few months I will be proud to help care for King’s Hall in Stoke. 01782 232625 or email by his daughters Tahira, a ago and was given a tour around and fulfill some of their dreams.” Taking place on Friday, 28 [email protected] Tour Ride is set to Convenient online accounts available attract thousands PEOPLE are being reminded that they THOUSANDS of amateur Executive of SweetSpot are now able to create a secure online cyclists will descend on Group, said: “Over the past account with the council.The service Stoke-on-Trent for what five years the Tour Rides was launched earlier in the year and the promises to be one of the have proved to be very easy-to-set-up accounts allow residents largest charity rides the city popular with cyclists. But and businesses to view online copies of has ever seen. this year, following The bills, manage Council Tax and business Tour of Britain organisers Tour of Britain’s upgrade to rates accounts. SweetSpot Group, working second tier in the world Account holders can also manage in partnership with the calendar, we felt the time Housing Benefit and Council Tax support council, have announced was right to focus on one claims and check to see when payments plans for The Tour Ride key event per year and to are next due.The service is available 24 100, taking place on make it the best it can hours a day, seven days a week and Sunday, 5 October. possibly be for The route is still being participants.” enables people to check payments and finalised, however, it will It will mark the sixth year installation plans and apply for start and finish in that Stoke-on-Trent has discounts and exemptions online.Those Stoke-on-Trent and will hosted a Tour Ride. signing up to the scheme will receive feature roads used by Sir Norman Bassett, Club electronic notifications and bills and can Bradley Wiggins when The Coach at Lyme Racing choose to switch off paper billing – Tour of Britain came to the Club, said: “This is a saving paper and postage costs. city last year, as well as the prestigious event for the Other advantages include being Staffordshire Moorlands area which attracts people automatically informed by email when a and Peak District, including from all over the country. new notification is available to view Gun Hill. “We get quite a few online while copies of bills and Riders will have the people from our club taking statements can be accessed online for choice of 100-mile and part and it’s good that the Council Tax and business rates accounts. 50-mile circular route event raises money for Account holders can also report options and will be charity at the same time, as The Tour Ride is set to encouraged to raise funds well as getting people out changes using the online facility such as feature roads in the for the event’s official and about and taking part applying for discounts or notifying the charity partners, Action in cycling.” city, the Staffordshire council of a change of circumstances. Medical Research and Sue For more information Moorlands and the For more information and instruction Ryder. and to find out how to take Peak District. on how to register visit stoke.gov.uk/ Hugh Roberts, Chief part, visit tourride.co.uk onlineaccount Our City p10 15/5/14 10:36 Page 1

10 Our City SUMMER 2014 Where Market showcasing craft in the products trebles in size City? PECIAL markets staged by Free parking for traders and customer base. We do have more the council at the King’s Hall customers is helping attract hundreds pitches available so we’d urge any Sin Stoke to showcase the of people to each King’s market with talented local traders out there who shoppers charged just £1 to get in. think it could work for them to get in wares of artisan producers are The fee includes entry into a raffle touch.” Win a digital camera going from strength to strength. with the chance of winning vouchers, The next markets are scheduled for Launched with around 20 traders, which can be spent at any stall. Sundays on 1 June, 7 September and there are now more than 60 regular Julia Smith, the council’s market 23 November. Each will run from in fun competition stallholders who sell mostly organiser, said: “It’s great to see how 10am to 4pm. handcrafted goods not available on the quickly these markets have grown from Traders wishing to book a pitch FOR the chance to win a Samsung digital camera High Street ranging from fine foods the first one. Our market really is should call Julia on 01782 233148 or have a go at our fun photo competition called and clothing to jewellery and art. helping stall holders develop a strong email [email protected] Where in the City? Below, are three pictures showing close-up images of parts of three buildings in Stoke-on-Trent Michelle and Martyn which are all playing a part in regeneration. Wilton with some of All you have to do is name the buildings – and their bespoke wooden send your answers with your name, address and creations. Below right, contact telephone number by email to one of their pixie [email protected] or post to: sculptures. Where in the City competition, FREEPOST Our City Deadline for entries is 25 July.To give a little help in identifying the buildings, there is a clue with each photo. A

Distinctive building design in the University Quarter. B

Couple lovingly create bespoke gifts in their wonderful world of wood HUSBAND and wife team Martyn and building furniture to order.Then we Michelle Wilton have been selling their thought we’d have a go at making A place where visitors can watch the bird life. lovingly handcrafted wooden gifts and gifts. ornaments at the King’s market for two “I bought a lathe and was told years. about pyrography so we got a Trading as World of Wood, they pyrography pen. Michelle started C make goblets, plates, bowls, vases, signing our pieces and now does all candleholders and have just started the artwork.We’re both self taught carving pixies. Some of their unique but very creative.” pieces feature pyrography artwork Their venture is now a thriving created through burning words and business built, in part, on the sales patterns into the wood. generated at the King’s market. wander to Their bespoke creations sell well “We’d been to other craft fairs and see what everyone else is making. both at the market and online but were struggling to find a local venue “Through the market and our getting established and finding the when we stumbled across the King’s Facebook page, we’ve built up our confidence to trade has not always market on Facebook.We’ve been profile.We’ve just finished a been easy because their venture was coming ever since and it’s brilliant,” commission for someone in Cornwall born out of redundancy. said Martyn. and get enquiries from people all over Martyn, aged 48, said:“I’d been a “It’s well organised and well run. the world. I’d definitely recommend joiner for 30 years when I lost my job. I There’s so much local talent on display the King’s market to other traders like An academy where you might look to a new *******. started sub contracting and also we sometimes set up and then have a us.” Our City p11 15/5/14 14:49 Page 1

SUMMER 2014 Our City 11 Reception Class Pupils Prudence Smith and Joseph Standeven, both aged three, tuck in to a healthy lunch at Northwood Broom Community School.

An extra 3,000 meals a day will be served in city schools

KITCHEN capacity is being expanded at a number of the necessary equipment and staffing levels. in our schools which helps promote a healthy lifestyle. Stoke-on-Trent’s maintained schools to provide an extra A total of 67 schools will be providing free meals The council’s efforts have already been recognised 3,000 free meals a day from September. to infant classes from the autumn – each is being with City Catering receiving the Food for Life Bronze All pupils in reception,Year One and Year Two classes offered the opportunity to access the funding if they Catering Mark. will be offered a free lunch in line with the School Food need it. This award is only given to providers who are able to Plan report recommendations made to Government. The council welcomes the opportunity to meet certain criteria, including meat being farm assured, To cater for an expected rise in demand, council provide even more pupils with a healthy and eggs being free range and fish coming from sustainable catering provider City Catering has been given access nutritious school meal. stocks. to £500,000 of Department for Education funding to Families in the city can be confident that The council is pleased to provide excellent meals to spend on making sure kitchens at the schools have children already receive a superb choice of food thousands more children in the city’s schools. Apprentice training in classroom IVE apprentices are 16 apprentices during the life of delighted to be back the contract. Fin the classroom as Now 23, Antony is nine months they play a key role in into his 13-month apprenticeship and is based at Haywood delivering the council’s Academy. He said: “I enjoy £270million Building working with people, the team Schools for the Future work and it’s different every day. Apprentice Customer Service programme. It can be quite challenging at Engineer Saul Mace at work Antony Flowers, Marcus times. at St Peter’s Academy. Chamberlain, Daniel Dummelow, “I’d worked in a number of Saul Mace and Josh Roads are at areas before this and was at an various stages of their training as age when I didn’t want to end up He said: “I fix hardware, install which began in January 2011, is The 18th and final BSF project Apprentice Customer Service in a dead-end job. This software, carry out asset now nearing completion. The – a complete rebuild of Abbey Engineers. opportunity has been brilliant.” management and we even get final phase of BSF-funded Hill School and Performing Arts They work for RM Education – Saul Mace is 19 and based at involved with some technical refurbishment work at St. College – should be complete in the company contracted until St. Peter’s Academy in Fenton. support for staff and pupils. It’s Margaret Ward Catholic College time for a re-opening this 2017 to supply information and Just three months into his challenging and there’s something in Tunstall is finished though September. communications technology apprenticeship, he has always different to do each day. It’s been work to re-build the school’s main For more information go to support to 16 of the council’s 18 been interested in computers and fantastic so far.” hall is due to continue until the stoke.gov.uk/buildingschoolsfor BSF schools. RM has to employ wanted to work in the ICT sector. The BSF building programme, autumn. thefuture Our City p12 15/5/14 10:42 Page 1

12 Our City SUMMER 2014 Many positives for garden team KILLED horticulturalists and group of horticulturalists who worked on a teenage apprentice learning the garden. He said: “It’s a good learning Shis trade teamed up in a bid to curve to see how the gardens are put together and wonderful experience. help make the city’s entry in an “It has increased my knowledge of internationally renowned gardening new plants along with picking up more contest a blooming success. skills in horticulture. It is exciting going Green-fingered employees from the up against other entries and seeing how council helped to build the Positively good our garden is.” Stoke-on-Trent garden, which, as Our Fellow council gardener Carlo City went to press, was set to wow Marchionne, aged 54, of Stoke, who is visitors at this year’s prestigious RHS currently studying Level Two in Chelsea Flower Show. Horticulture, said: “I’ve got plenty of The team included an experienced experience planting bedding and things park keeper and an apprentice, who like that but you don’t get many chances delivered the garden in partnership with to build something like this – and at Bartholomew Landscaping. PCT Chelsea as well.” Engineering in Milton helped by Council Park Keeper Andy Finch, who fabricating a stainless steel garden room worked on the Chelsea entry, has which boasts stunning arches and previously been involved with the floating steps. authority’s successful submissions at the Positively Stoke-on-Trent has been RHS Tatton Park Flower Show which designed to reflect the renewed clarity of saw the city land gold in five successive the city and its sustainable energy years. ambitions. Efforts to win a much sought Andy said: “It is different to the Gardener after RHS medal – to mirror last year’s Tatton experience in both scale and Carlo Marchionne, Silver success – were supported by the standard.Working with new left, and Apprentice authority’s horticultural workers. colleagues has helped to heighten Lewis Millington, who A number of them are studying at the experience as we needed to gel were part of the city’s South Staffordshire College, which also quickly and become a team Chelsea garden team, agreed to be one of the sponsors at the overnight to put the garden together.” at work in Burslem inspiring event. Lewis Millington, aged 18, who has ● A report on how the city’s entry Park. completed Level Two of his was received at Chelsea will be carried apprenticeship course, was among the in the Autumn issue of Our City. Our City p13 15/5/14 10:47 Page 1

SUMMER 2014 Our City 13

Asmir Begovic to take part in memorial service STOKE City goalkeeper Asmir Begovic, pictured above, is taking part in a memorial service for victims of the Srebrenica massacre. The player, whose family fled Bosnia the year conflict erupted in 1991, will either appear in person or give his reflections about the Balkans War via video – depending on his national side’s World Cup Ready to get planting are children from New Ford commitments in Brazil. Primary School’s reception class, left to right, Jack Being led by the Rector of Stoke, Fitchford, Lily-mae Heaton, Ahmed Azez and Alahna Prebendary Reverend David Boden. Our cover picture features pupils from the Lingwood, choirs from the Excel same class, Mitchell Green and Jelavie Ewowo. Academy and St. Margaret Ward Catholic College are also taking part. Islamic prayers will be said and a hard-hitting 10-minute film about the 1995 massacre, which claimed Poppy field tribute to mark the lives of 8,000 mainly men and boys, will be shown. Lord Mayor Councillor Majid Khan will represent the council and Stoke-on-Trent South MP Rob Flello will give a reading. Councillor Great War centenary Alastair Watson will give his reflections on Bosnia after visiting OPPY fields have been sown at to work alongside the city council’s BBC Radio Stoke at the King’s Hall on 21 the country as part of a three beauty spots and plans countryside officers and for our children to June and an Armed Forces Day Parade in the fact-finding trip. Pare afoot to honour two help improve the environment by planting Park at Queen’s Park in Longton on 29 June. Councillor Tom Reynolds these flowers.” A civic commemoration is being held at accompanied him on that tour as Victoria Cross heroes as the city The iconic poppies are now set to flower in and an inter-faith service at prepares to mark the centenary of they represented Stoke-on-Trent at the summer at the same time as Holy Trinity Church in Hartshill on 3 a commemoration event organised the start of the First World War. commemoration events to mark the Great August. and paid for by awareness-raising Children as well as rangers and volunteers War continue around the city. A cast of young performers will come charity Remembering Srebrenica Among those will be the unveiling of two together for The King’s Shilling being staged teamed up with the council’s countryside and the British Government. team to sow poppies at Park Hall Country paving stones bearing the names of city at The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery on Councillor Reynolds said:“I was Park, Holden Lane Pools and the Whitfield soldiers who won the VC during the war. 30-31 October. Auditions take place in July Valley Local Nature Reserve. Ernest Egerton from Longton was awarded as The Regent Theatre Creative Learning ashamed I didn’t know more about About 20 pupils from ’s New his for his actions at the Battle of Department puts together a cast to deliver a the massacre which occurred in Ford Primary School went along to Whitfield Passchendaele while John Rhodes was moving and funny performance piece in my life time and less than 20 years Valley. Teacher Vicky Broad said: “As a school honoured for his bravery at the Battle of honour of the fallen. ago. It was the biggest and most we are doing a lot of work about the Poelcapelle. ■ For more details and the full list of World violent loss of life in Europe since environment and regularly visit the reserve. Other events in an ever-growing list include War One events and how to get involved, go the Second World War and “This was a really good opportunity for us a Family History Day in association with to stoke.gov.uk/firstworldwar demonstrated how hatred can fester if it’s not challenged.We in our city have struggled with community cohesion issues City’s first Eat Outside Day is set to be a tasty occasion ourselves so it’s something which IF it’s good enough for the designated Sunday 31 August as green spaces. It could be in the shouldn’t be taken for granted.” mighty USA, it’s good enough the day.The idea is simple as park or the garden, anywhere in The service takes place in the Jubilee Hall at the Civic Centre on for Stoke-on-Trent – so Eat Mark Macintosh, chairman of the fact. Friday, 11 July. Members of the Outside Day is being launched newly-formed Green Door “We’d love people to share public are welcome but are asked here. Community Group, explained: their photographs with us which to contact the Councillor and Civic The citywide Green Door “We want to encourage people we’ll then Facebook.” Support Team at the council first project, which is funded by the to have a meal outside and make ■ Send your pictures to on 01782 236663. council and the Lottery, has the most of the city’s beautiful [email protected] Our City p14 15/5/14 14:50 Page 1

14 Our City SUMMER 2014 Fenton centre is at the heart of the community A COMMUNITY project originally Regeneration Trust, the Realise variety of creatures including spiders, Spotlight on intended to operate just one day a Foundation, Big Lottery and Robbie snakes, meerkats, and owls. week has blossomed into a centre for Williams’ Give It Sum charity, the Hub Society members have also developed local people with a variety of activities now offers a programme which a wildlife garden in the Hub grounds and opportunities on offer. includes a playgroup, adult learning and created a pond. OUR CITY’S RESIDENTS’ The Hub, Fenton, was launched in opportunities, a book-lending Volunteer Manager Carole Kind September 2012 offering leadership scheme, family first aid courses, yoga said:“People can just drop in for a cup ASSOCIATIONS AND activities for young people aged 5-11. sessions, access to computers, arts and of coffee and a chat or they can join in The sessions are now so popular crafts workshops, coffee mornings and the activities.There’s lots on offer and COMMUNITY GROUPS that the Hub volunteers have cookery sessions for both adult we are really pleased at the way expanded the range of their learners and for children. things have developed in such a short programmes and the scheme – based And the 50 or so local people who time. Everyone who helps is a in Christchurch St, Fenton – now regularly use the Hub also enjoy visits volunteer and our aim is to make opens four days a week. from members of the Staffordshire the Hub a centre for the whole Helped by grants from the Coalfield Exotics Society who bring along a community.” It’s a cold shoulder for cold callers at council bungalows

PACKING A PUNCH: Hannah Burton, 14, ready to spar at Hanley YMCA. Village resident Cynthia Capper holds one of the No Cold Caller Zone signs.

THOUSANDS of elderly and “Residents have been able vulnerable Stoke-on-Trent to take advantage of valuable Boxing helps banish residents are enjoying a new support on how to stay safe level of security after every from rogue traders and council-owned bungalow in distraction burglars. the city – more than 2,000 “Signage has been provided properties – were designated for all bungalows explaining bad behaviour as a “no cold calling zone”. that residents will not deal The council joined forces with cold callers or doorstep OXING sessions people – both boys and girls – to bullied at school says she feels with the police and fire services traders, and fire service have left the young have some boxing training at the much more confident and to implement the scheme officers are continuing to Bpeople of Stanfields YMCA in Hanley. another which was excluded which aims to protect residents provide support to the project feeling listened to after For six weeks the youngsters from school has asked if they from the dangers of doorstep by installing ‘no cold calling’ attended the YMCA for Tuesday can resume their lessons. the City Council Housing evening sessions with boxing One of the young boxers crime by warning traders that street signs on lamp posts and Department adopted a they are not welcome and railings. coach Ade Tilstone who taught Kaash Buttery aged 15 of new and innovative way them the basics of boxing and Darwin Drive Burslem said: should not bother to even “The danger of doorstep of working. some of the disciplines involved. “This has been a really good knock on the door. crime is very real and we are After several complaints Local Housing Officer Jayne idea. It has helped to keep us Council public protection committed to doing all we can received from local residents Poole, who has worked on the off the streets which is really and neighbourhood impact to support residents, regarding antisocial behaviour estate since June last year, said important. officers teamed up with particularly vulnerable housing officers visited the the results had been fantastic. “Having facilities like this partners to work with people.” young people involved with She said that by listening to available is very good too and it residents across the city and National statistics show that the local police officer to and understanding the young helps people get interested in set up the zones. A similar the average doorstep crime understand the root cause of people and working together boxing. scheme is now being rolled victim is 81-years-old, female the problem. with other agencies including “I already box for a club – out to privately-run and living alone. Bogus The youngsters said they the local police the council had Meir ABC – but I like coming retirement villages. property repairers offer to were bored and that there was hopefully made a real difference here because I can spend time Speaking at an event to carry out work such as roofing nothing else for them to do on to the youngsters. with my mates and make new celebrate reaching the 2,000 repairs, resurfacing drives and the estate. They were interested Since the training commenced friends.” in things like free-running, there have been no further Further funding for the bungalow target, Scheme gardening.The work is usually off-road motorbikes and boxing. reports of antisocial behaviour boxing project has now been Co-ordinator Val Edmonds said of a poor quality and prices As boxing seemed the most on the Stanfields estate but just secured by Councillor Joy work on implementing the are extortionate. popular idea a meeting was as important has been the Garner to keep it going until the project started in May last The celebration event was arranged with sport and leisure, impact the boxing has had on end of August 2014. year. She said:“It is a fabulous held at Bradley Retirement youth services, Local Matters the young people. The young people who have achievement that all council Village – the first privately-run and the YMCA to look at taking They say they now feel taken part have been presented bungalows are now in facility to sign-up to the No the idea forward. listened to and have become with awards including tophies designated zones. Cold Calling Zone scheme. Funding was obtained from more positive and motivated. donated by the local trophy Sport for 12 young One girl who was being shop A Star Trophies. Our City p15 15/5/14 14:28 Page 1

Holiday day pass is available every weekday 10am-4pm,and TUESDAY 12 AUGUST includes unlimited use of: Youth Team 11AM-2PM ● Pools Inspired By Sound music ● Indoor sports (badminton, Citywide event @ Moorland Park table tennis, short tennis) Youth Centre ● Crazy Golf Land Summer Offer Unlimited places – just turn ● Go karts up.0-19yr olds.Free ● Dance mats Price:£5 for juniors aged 8+ and TUESDAY 12 AUGUST Delivered in partnership with Stoke adults,£4 for juniors aged under 8. 11AM-2PM City FC,football coaching for Exclusive offers in Riptide Café/Bar. Inspired By Sound music youngsters aged 3-6 yrs For further details call event @ Milton Youth Club ● Every Tuesday from 22 July – 01782 233222 Unlimited places – just turn 26 August ,5.15pm-6pm @ Fenton up.0-19yr olds.Free Manor Sports Complex.5-6yr olds. ● Every Thursday from 24 July – Leisure Swim and Play North Area WEDNESDAY 13 AUGUST 28 July 5 15pm-6pm @ St Peters Tower sessions for 12PM-4PM Academy.3-4yr olds MONDAY 28 JULY everyone,open daily.Offers Park event @ Tunstall Park ● Wednesday 23 July,6 August and 9.30AM-4.30PM ST6 6DY 20 August 5pm-6pm @ St Peter’s include entry to the fantasy Mountain Biking pool,play tower,indoor sports Unlimited places – just turn Academy (MATCH NIGHTS ONLY) for @ Manifold Valley up.0-19yr olds.Free 3-4yr olds and 5-6yr olds and meal deals in the café/bar. 12 places – please book. ● Every Saturday from 26 July – Price:£5.90 for adults,£4.40 10-14yr olds. £3 THURSDAY 14 AUGUST juniors (Energise PLUS and 30 August 10.30-11.15am @OSSMA. 9AM-4.30PM 3-4yr olds and 5-6yr olds. family tickets also available, TUESDAY 29 JULY Manchester day trip – For further details contact locker charges apply). 11AM-2PM shopping/Imperial War For further details call Milton Youth Centre Museum 01782 234957 01782 233500 Open Day 15 places – please book. Unlimited places – just turn 11-19yr olds. £5 Unlimited places – just turn FRIDAY 08 AUGUST up.0-19yr olds.Free up. Families with children 12PM-4PM FRIDAY 15 AUGUST 0-5 yrs and older siblings. High Ropes @ Stanley Head FRIDAY 01 AUGUST 12PM-3PM Free 12 places – please book. 12PM-3PM Bowling & McDonald’s 11-19yr olds. £5 ROCKA plus Arts & Crafts 15 places – please book. FRIDAY 01 AUGUST session @ Burslem Park 11-19yr olds. £5 12PM-3PM MONDAY 11 AUGUST ST6 1AE Britannia Stadium Tour 12.30PM-4.30PM Unlimited places – just turn FRIDAY 15 AUGUST & football session Amerton Farm visit A range of indoor and outdoor up.0-19yr olds.Free 12PM-2PM 15 places – please book. 12 places – please book. facilities suitable for all ages, Archery @ Parkhall Hills 11-19yr olds. £3 10-14yr olds. £5 including our brand new 3G MONDAY 04 AUGUST 12 places – please book. pitches. 9.30AM-4.30PM 10-14yr olds. £3 TUESDAY 12 AUGUST MONDAY 04 AUGUST For further details call Mountain Biking 9.30AM-4.30PM 01782 234400 @ Manifold Valley WEDNESDAY 20 AUGUST 11AM-2PM Mountain Biking 12 places – please book. 12AM-4PM Inspired By Sound music @ Manifold Valley 10-14yr olds. £3 Burslem Children’s Centre event @ Youth 12 places – please book. event @ Hamil Road ST6 1AW Centre 10-14yr olds. £3 TUESDAY 05 AUGUST Unlimited places – just turn Unlimited places – just turn 12.30PM-4.30PM up.0-13yr olds.Free up. 11-19yr olds. Free WEDNESDAY 13 AUGUST High Ropes @ Stanley Head 12PM-1.30PM 12 places – please book. TUESDAY 05 AUGUST Activities between 12pm- Fabulous Beach Party @ The 11-19yr olds. £5 9.30AM-4.30PM 4pm each day,including South Area Crescent Children’s Centre, family fun swim sessions, Mountain Biking Pinewood Crescent, Meir THURSDAY 07 AUGUST sportshall activities and MONDAY 28 JULY @ Manifold Valley ST3 6HZ 12PM-3PM canoe taster sessions. 11AM-2PM 12 places – please book. Unlimited places – just turn Waterworld Bentilee Youth Centre 10-14yr olds. £3 up. Families with children For further details call 15 places – please book. 01782 235037 Open Day 0-5yrs and older siblings. Free 11-19yr olds. £5 Unlimited places – just turn WEDNESDAY 06 AUGUST Always telephone before up.0-19yr olds.Free 12PM-4PM THURSDAY 14 AUGUST visiting the centre. FRIDAY 08 AUGUST Park event @ Queens Park, 9.30AM-4.30PM 12PM-3PM TUESDAY 29 AUGUST Longton ST3 4AZ Manchester day trip – Britannia Stadium Tour 9.30AM-4.30PM shopping/Imperial War & football session Unlimited places – just turn Mountain Biking up.4-19yr olds.Free Museum/Media City 15 places – please book. @ Manifold Valley 15 places – please book. 11-19yr olds. £3 12 places – please book. 11-19yr olds. £5 THURSDAY 07 AUGUST 10-14yr olds. £3 MONDAY 11 AUGUST 12PM-3PM 9.30AM-4PM THURSDAY 31 AUGUST ROCKA plus Arts & Crafts Mountain Biking @ 1PM-2.30PM session @ Stansmore Road Manifold Valley Under The Sea event @ Park, Meir ST3 6LX 12 places – please book. Unlimited places – just turn – a huge number Fenton Children’s Centre, StreetGames 10-14yr olds. £3 Temple St, Fenton ST4 4NR up.0-19yr olds.Free of sessions taking place in For further details call communities across the city, or visit including our exciting Doorstep 01782 234957 Sports Clubs sessions. stoke.gov.uk/summerevents Our City p16-17 15/5/14 11:28 Page 1

16 Our City SUMMER 2014 SUMMER 2014 Our City 17 THURSDAY 14 AUGUST TUESDAY 29 JULY FRIDAY 08 AUGUST WEDNESDAY 20 AUGUST WEDNESDAY 30 JULY 9.30AM-4.30PM 10AM-12PM 12PM-3PM 12PM-2PM 10.30AM-3PM Manchester day trip – Fun Day @ North Shelton Cricket Session with coach Archery @ Parkhall Hills Wildlife Fun Day @ Park Hall shopping/Imperial War Community Centre @ 12 places – please book. Country Park Summer Reading Museum/Media City Unlimited places – just turn 20 places – please book. 10-14yr olds. £3 Find out more about British 15 places – please book. up.0-11yr olds.Free 11-19yr olds. £3 wildlife at this fun-filled 11-19yr olds. £5 THURSDAY 28 AUGUST event for the whole family. Challenge 2014 WEDNESDAY 30 JULY MONDAY 11 AUGUST 12.30PM-2.30PM Learn about the creatures 12PM-4PM 11AM-2PM FRIDAY 15 AUGUST Summer Fayre @ Kingsland that call the park home by 12PM-3PM Park event @ Central Forest Inspired By Sound music Children’s Centre Park ST1 6BB event @ City Youth Centre taking part in activities Awesome Walls Unlimited places – just turn throughout the day, The Mythical Maze 12 places – please book. Unlimited places – just turn Unlimited places – just turn up.0-11yr olds.Free up.4-19yr olds.Free up. 11-19yr olds. Free including a mammal search JOIN the Mythical Maze, this year`s ■ Tuesday 22 July 2.15-3.15 11-19yr olds. £10 and a butterfly hunt. Find us Summer Reading Challenge at your @ Stoke Library WEDNESDAY 30 AUGUST TUESDAY 12 AUGUST at the main visitor centre car MONDAY 18 AUGUST Citywide local Stoke-on-Trent library. ■ Monday 4 August 11.00-12.00 9.30AM-4.30PM 1PM-4.30PM park (OS grid reference SJ Mythical Maze will take children on @ City Central Library, Hanley 11AM-2PM Mountain Biking @ Manifold Fun Day @ Hanley Park 930447), off Hulme Road, HOPPA @ Foley Park, Priors THURSDAY 21 AUGUST a fantasy adventure based on myths ■ Monday 4 August 2.15-3.15 Valley Unlimited places – just turn from Field, Road, ST4 9.30PM-5PM and legends from around the world. @ Meir Library 12 places – please book. 10- up.0-11yr olds.Free Midlands Safari Park trip 10.30am. The aim of the challenge is to get ■ Wednesday 6 August 11.00-12.00 3DP 14yr olds. £3 Unlimited places – just turn 45 places – please book. children to read at least six library @ Longton Library WEDNESDAY 13 AUGUST WEDNESDAY 6 AUGUST up.0-19yr olds.Free 11-19yr olds. £15 books during the summer holidays. ■ Wednesday 6 August 2.15-3.15 FRIDAY 01 AUGUST 9.30AM-4.30PM 1PM-2.30PM It all starts on Saturday 12 July – @ Bentilee Library 12PM-2PM Mountain Biking Pond dipping @ Berryhill TUESDAY 19 AUGUST FRIDAY 22 AUGUST just drop into your local library to join Watch out for lots of new exciting Kickboxing @ YMCA @ Manifold Valley 9.30PM-5PM Fields LNR and start collecting stickers and prizes 11AM-2PM 15 places – please book. 12 places – please book. activities in libraries this summer! Archery @ Parkhall Hills Alton Towers trip Join us for summer holiday for completing the challenge. There will be lots of other activities to 11-19yr olds. £5 10-14yr olds. £3 45 places – please book. fun searching for pond 12 places – please book. Mythical Maze is suitable for do throughout the holidays to 11-19yr olds. £15 creatures. Our experts will be 10-14yr olds. £3 MONDAY 04 AUGUST THURSDAY 14 AUGUST children ages 4-11 years and free to support the Summer Reading on hand to help you to SATURDAY 9 AUGUST SUNDAY 24TH AUGUST SATURDAY 6 SEPTEMBER WEDNESDAY 23 JULY join. 12.30PM-4.30PM 9.30AM-4.30PM TO BOOK ACTIVITIES WITH 12PM – 4PM 12PM – 3PM 7.30PM-9PM 11AM-4PM Challenge.Visit stoke.gov.uk/libraries High Ropes @ Stanley Head Liverpool Museums identify your finds. All or ring 01782 238455 for further Throughout July and August the LIMITED PLACES OR FOR WW1 commemorative event Teddy Bears picnic Bat Walk @ Berryhill Fun Day @ Gladstone ,Hanford,Treehouse and 12 places – please book. & Shopping necessary equipment will be Mythical Maze Events: details. MORE INFORMATION provided, but you are @ Smithpool Park (Mount @ Queens Park Fields LNR Pottery Museum 11-19yr olds. £5 14 places – please book. Children’s entertainment inc. Join us for Magical Mythical Maze All events are free and suitable for Westfield Children’s centres will be PLEASE CONTACT welcome to bring your own. Pleasant) Childrens disco plus Punch Learn about these 11-19yr olds. £5 face-painting and balloon events, specially written and children aged 4-11 years. Children having their own free summer 01782 232139 Meet at the Arbourfields Fun fair, dog show, stalls, land and Judy fascinating nocturnal celebration events for families with TUESDAY 05 AUGUST train and Old Bill Tank. animals during this guided modelling, are all free with performed by the Take A Hint Theatre under 8 years must be accompanied 12PM-2PM THURSDAY 14 AUGUST Drive entrance (OS grid ALL YOUNG PEOPLE TAKING SATURDAY 6 SEPTEMBER walk with our local bat normal museum admission. Company.The events will take place on: by a parent or carer. children 0-5 yrs and older siblings. Fun Day @ All Saints Church, 11AM-12.30PM reference SJ 904462), near PART IN AN ACTIVITY MUST SATURDAY 9 AUGUST 10.30AM-2.30PM expert. Bat detectors will be ■ Tuesday 22 July 11.00-12.00 Information on other events at all Joiners Square Beach Party @ Stoke Library the retirement village, at COMPLETE AND RETURN A 1PM– 7PM Landscapes Forgotten @ available to help you pick 22, JULY 25 JULY, 29 JULY, @ Tunstall Library South Area Children’s Centres will Unlimited places – just turn Unlimited places – just turn 1pm.This event is free, but CONSENT FORM Stoke Pride Park Hall Country Park out any bats that give us a 1 AUGUST 11AM-1PM up.0-11yr olds.Free up.0-11yr olds.Free pre-booking is required be posted on the city council @ Northwood Park From hot-house swamp and fly-past during the walk! AND 1.30-3PM website at (please call 01782 331889). Sporty Peg People – holiday WEDNESDAY 06 AUGUST FRIDAY 15 AUGUST Contact Carl Gratty baking deserts into the Please bring a torch. Please stoke.gov.uk//childrenscentres/ 07500874869 freezer – it’s a walk in the meet at the Hall Hill Drive craft activity @ Gladstone 9.30AM-4.30PM 12PM-3PM Countryside SATURDAY 9 AUGUST Pottery Museum Mountain Biking @ Manifold Bowling & McDonald’s park! Understand how the entrance (OS grid reference 8.45PM-10.15PM WEDNESDAY 20 AUGUST Park Hall landscape has SJ 915455), just off Dividy Children can make a peg Valley 15 places – please book. & Community Bat Walk @ Park Hall person playing their Central Area 12 places – please book. 11-19yr olds. £5 1PM-2.30PM changed through 350 million Road, at 7.30pm. Country Park favourite sport and decorate 10-14yr olds. £3 Bug Hunt @ Park Hall years of Earth history.This Learn about these it in team colours.These MONDAY 28 JULY MONDAY 18 AUGUST Country Park landscape and geology walk For more information about any of these SUNDAY 27 JULY 12PM-3PM fascinating nocturnal popular sessions are drop in 1PM-2.30PM WEDNESDAY 06 AUGUST 10AM-5PM Health & Wellbeing Day @ An ideal summer holiday will highlight places of events please contact Stoke-on-Trent City animals during this ever- and cost 50p plus admission. Summer Arts & Crafts @ 1PM-2.30PM National Football Museum Queens Park event for you and your interest throughout the Council’s Countryside Team on popular annual guided walk Kingsland Children’s Centre, Teddy Bears’ Picnic @ Yeaman & shopping in Manchester Family Fun Day with free children. Join our experts on country park and will include 01782 331889 with our local bat expert. Bat Throughout the holidays the Gladstone Eaves Lane, Bucknall ST2 9AS Street Park 15 places – please book. sports sessions, smoothies, a hunt for creepy crawlies in a stop for lunch. Please wear Unlimited places – just turn detectors will be available to Pottery Museum offers the chance to see Unlimited places – just turn 11-19yr olds. £3 games and hoola hoop and around our sandstone suitable outdoor clothing up.0-11yr olds.Free skilled demonstration staff at work and up.0-11yr olds.Free workshop help you pick out any bats canyons. Children must be and sturdy boots, and bring TUESDAY 19 AUGUST that give us a fly-past during Museums visitors can have a go at throwing a pot, supervised by an adult. Meet along your packed lunch. painting pottery or making bone china MONDAY 28 JULY THURSDAY 07 AUGUST 12PM-3PM the walk! Please bring a SUNDAY 27 JULY at the main visitor centre car Meet at the main visitor TUESDAY 22 TO FRIDAY 25 flowers,from £1 plus admission.During 1PM-2.30PM 12PM-3PM ROCKA & Arts and Crafts torch. Meet at the main park (OS grid reference SJ centre car park (OS grid JULY AND TUESDAY 29 JULY City Youth Centre Open Day Waterworld Session @ Hanley Park WW1 Commemorative Event August there will also be a programme of @ Tunstall Park visitor centre car park (OS 930447), off Hulme Road, reference SJ 930447), off TO FRIDAY 1 AUGUST special events to celebrate Gladstone’s Unlimited places – just turn 15 places – please book. Unlimited places – just turn grid reference SJ 930447), off Weston Coyney at 1pm.The Hulme Road,Weston Coyney 10.30AM-12.30PM & up. 11-19yr olds. Free 11-19yr olds. £5 up. 11-19yr olds. Free Details to be confirmed 40th anniversary as a museum.For more Hulme Road,Weston Coyney event will last for about one at 10.30am.This event will 1.15-3PM information on events and activities at SATURDAY 28 JUNE at 8.45pm. and a half hours. last for 3 to 4 hours. Summer Holiday Craft activity please see 10.30AM-1PM – Silly Sunglasses @ Potteries www.stokemuseums.org.uk or take a Insect Walk @ Berryhill Museum & Art Gallery look at the Gladstone Facebook page. Fields LNR Make a pair of silly A guided walk around sunglasses to wear in our looking at the new Seaside Exhibition. While every effort has insect life associated with Drop in. £1. been made to ensure ■ CALLING all humans! A space ship Wednesday 13 August 2.00-4.00 the various habitats found the accuracy of the has crash landed in the library. HELP! @ Bentilee Library on this urban nature reserve. WEDNESDAY 6 AUGUST information provided If you are a human, aged 9-13 years, ■ Thursday 14 August 10.00-12.00, Learn about butterflies, 10.30AM-4PM. in this events listing can you help to save mankind and 2.00-4.00 @ Bentilee Library beetles, dragonflies and lots Mr Whippy and the Conettes Stoke-on-Trent City Planet Earth? ■ Friday 15 August 10.00-12.00, of other insects that live on @ Potteries Museum & Art Council cannot accept Visit the Libraries of Life below to 2.00-4.00 @ Bentilee Library the fields with local expert Gallery any responsibility or find out what you need to do to start ■ Saturday 16 August 10.00-12.00 Dr Dave Skingsley. All Meet Mr Whippy and his liability for incorrect The Salmagundi: @ Bentilee Library necessary equipment will be Conettes as they entertain ■ nformation or any Monday 28 July 10.00-12.00, ■ Tuesday 19 August 10.00-12.00, provided, but you are you with a tasty combination errors that have 2.00-4.00 @ Tunstall Library 2.00-4.00 @ Meir Library welcome to bring your own. of 1950’s Hollywood musicals occurred. ■ Tuesday 29 July 10.00-12.00, ■ and the great British Wednesday 20 August 10.00- Please meet at the Hall Hill We recommend that 2.00-4.00 @ Tunstall Library 12.00, 2.00-4.00 @ Meir Library Drive entrance (OS grid holidayexperience. Free. ■ you always check with Wednesday 30 July 10.00-12.00, ■ Thursday 21 August 10.00-12.00 reference SJ 915455), the event organisers 2.00-4.00 @ Tunstall Library @ Meir Library just off Dividy Road, at ■ before attending. Thursday 31 July 10.00-12.00 @ ■ Friday 22 August 10.00-12.00, 10.30am. Tunstall Library 2.00-4.00 @ Meir Library ■ Friday 1 August 10.00-12.00, ■ Saturday 23 August 10.00-12.00 2.00-4.00 @ Tunstall Library @ Meir Library ■ Saturday 2 August 10.00-12.00 @ Tunstall Library Please don`t delay ■ Monday 11 August 10.00-12.00, WE NEED YOU! 2.00-4.00 @ Bentilee Library For further details, visit ■ Tuesday 12 August 10.00-12.00, www.stoke.gov.uk/libraries or ring 2.00-4.00 @ Bentilee Library 01782 238455. Our City p16-17 15/5/14 11:28 Page 1

16 Our City SUMMER 2014 SUMMER 2014 Our City 17 THURSDAY 14 AUGUST TUESDAY 29 JULY FRIDAY 08 AUGUST WEDNESDAY 20 AUGUST WEDNESDAY 30 JULY 9.30AM-4.30PM 10AM-12PM 12PM-3PM 12PM-2PM 10.30AM-3PM Manchester day trip – Fun Day @ North Shelton Cricket Session with coach Archery @ Parkhall Hills Wildlife Fun Day @ Park Hall shopping/Imperial War Community Centre @ Hanley Park 12 places – please book. Country Park Summer Reading Museum/Media City Unlimited places – just turn 20 places – please book. 10-14yr olds. £3 Find out more about British 15 places – please book. up.0-11yr olds.Free 11-19yr olds. £3 wildlife at this fun-filled 11-19yr olds. £5 THURSDAY 28 AUGUST event for the whole family. Challenge 2014 WEDNESDAY 30 JULY MONDAY 11 AUGUST 12.30PM-2.30PM Learn about the creatures 12PM-4PM 11AM-2PM FRIDAY 15 AUGUST Summer Fayre @ Kingsland that call the park home by 12PM-3PM Park event @ Central Forest Inspired By Sound music Children’s Centre Park ST1 6BB event @ City Youth Centre taking part in activities Awesome Walls Unlimited places – just turn throughout the day, The Mythical Maze 12 places – please book. Unlimited places – just turn Unlimited places – just turn up.0-11yr olds.Free up.4-19yr olds.Free up. 11-19yr olds. Free including a mammal search JOIN the Mythical Maze, this year`s ■ Tuesday 22 July 2.15-3.15 11-19yr olds. £10 and a butterfly hunt. Find us Summer Reading Challenge at your @ Stoke Library WEDNESDAY 30 AUGUST TUESDAY 12 AUGUST at the main visitor centre car MONDAY 18 AUGUST Citywide local Stoke-on-Trent library. ■ Monday 4 August 11.00-12.00 9.30AM-4.30PM 1PM-4.30PM park (OS grid reference SJ Mythical Maze will take children on @ City Central Library, Hanley 11AM-2PM Mountain Biking @ Manifold Fun Day @ Hanley Park 930447), off Hulme Road, HOPPA @ Foley Park, Priors THURSDAY 21 AUGUST a fantasy adventure based on myths ■ Monday 4 August 2.15-3.15 Valley Unlimited places – just turn Weston Coyney from Field, Goldenhill Road, ST4 9.30PM-5PM and legends from around the world. @ Meir Library 12 places – please book. 10- up.0-11yr olds.Free Midlands Safari Park trip 10.30am. The aim of the challenge is to get ■ Wednesday 6 August 11.00-12.00 3DP 14yr olds. £3 Unlimited places – just turn 45 places – please book. children to read at least six library @ Longton Library WEDNESDAY 13 AUGUST WEDNESDAY 6 AUGUST up.0-19yr olds.Free 11-19yr olds. £15 books during the summer holidays. ■ Wednesday 6 August 2.15-3.15 FRIDAY 01 AUGUST 9.30AM-4.30PM 1PM-2.30PM It all starts on Saturday 12 July – @ Bentilee Library 12PM-2PM Mountain Biking Pond dipping @ Berryhill TUESDAY 19 AUGUST FRIDAY 22 AUGUST just drop into your local library to join Watch out for lots of new exciting Kickboxing @ YMCA @ Manifold Valley 9.30PM-5PM Fields LNR and start collecting stickers and prizes 11AM-2PM 15 places – please book. 12 places – please book. activities in libraries this summer! Archery @ Parkhall Hills Alton Towers trip Join us for summer holiday for completing the challenge. There will be lots of other activities to 11-19yr olds. £5 10-14yr olds. £3 45 places – please book. fun searching for pond 12 places – please book. Mythical Maze is suitable for do throughout the holidays to 11-19yr olds. £15 creatures. Our experts will be 10-14yr olds. £3 MONDAY 04 AUGUST THURSDAY 14 AUGUST children ages 4-11 years and free to support the Summer Reading on hand to help you to SATURDAY 9 AUGUST SUNDAY 24TH AUGUST SATURDAY 6 SEPTEMBER WEDNESDAY 23 JULY join. 12.30PM-4.30PM 9.30AM-4.30PM TO BOOK ACTIVITIES WITH 12PM – 4PM 12PM – 3PM 7.30PM-9PM 11AM-4PM Challenge.Visit stoke.gov.uk/libraries High Ropes @ Stanley Head Liverpool Museums identify your finds. All or ring 01782 238455 for further Throughout July and August the LIMITED PLACES OR FOR WW1 commemorative event Teddy Bears picnic Bat Walk @ Berryhill Fun Day @ Gladstone Blurton,Hanford,Treehouse and 12 places – please book. & Shopping necessary equipment will be Mythical Maze Events: details. MORE INFORMATION provided, but you are @ Smithpool Park (Mount @ Queens Park Fields LNR Pottery Museum 11-19yr olds. £5 14 places – please book. Children’s entertainment inc. Join us for Magical Mythical Maze All events are free and suitable for Westfield Children’s centres will be PLEASE CONTACT welcome to bring your own. Pleasant) Childrens disco plus Punch Learn about these 11-19yr olds. £5 face-painting and balloon events, specially written and children aged 4-11 years. Children having their own free summer 01782 232139 Meet at the Arbourfields Fun fair, dog show, stalls, land and Judy fascinating nocturnal celebration events for families with TUESDAY 05 AUGUST train and Old Bill Tank. animals during this guided modelling, are all free with performed by the Take A Hint Theatre under 8 years must be accompanied 12PM-2PM THURSDAY 14 AUGUST Drive entrance (OS grid ALL YOUNG PEOPLE TAKING SATURDAY 6 SEPTEMBER walk with our local bat normal museum admission. Company.The events will take place on: by a parent or carer. children 0-5 yrs and older siblings. Fun Day @ All Saints Church, 11AM-12.30PM reference SJ 904462), near PART IN AN ACTIVITY MUST SATURDAY 9 AUGUST 10.30AM-2.30PM expert. Bat detectors will be ■ Tuesday 22 July 11.00-12.00 Information on other events at all Joiners Square Beach Party @ Stoke Library the retirement village, at COMPLETE AND RETURN A 1PM– 7PM Landscapes Forgotten @ available to help you pick 22, JULY 25 JULY, 29 JULY, @ Tunstall Library South Area Children’s Centres will Unlimited places – just turn Unlimited places – just turn 1pm.This event is free, but CONSENT FORM Stoke Pride Park Hall Country Park out any bats that give us a 1 AUGUST 11AM-1PM up.0-11yr olds.Free up.0-11yr olds.Free pre-booking is required be posted on the city council @ Northwood Park From hot-house swamp and fly-past during the walk! AND 1.30-3PM website at (please call 01782 331889). Sporty Peg People – holiday WEDNESDAY 06 AUGUST FRIDAY 15 AUGUST Contact Carl Gratty baking deserts into the Please bring a torch. Please stoke.gov.uk//childrenscentres/ 07500874869 freezer – it’s a walk in the meet at the Hall Hill Drive craft activity @ Gladstone 9.30AM-4.30PM 12PM-3PM Countryside SATURDAY 9 AUGUST Pottery Museum Mountain Biking @ Manifold Bowling & McDonald’s park! Understand how the entrance (OS grid reference 8.45PM-10.15PM WEDNESDAY 20 AUGUST Park Hall landscape has SJ 915455), just off Dividy Children can make a peg Valley 15 places – please book. & Community Bat Walk @ Park Hall person playing their Central Area 12 places – please book. 11-19yr olds. £5 1PM-2.30PM changed through 350 million Road, at 7.30pm. Country Park favourite sport and decorate 10-14yr olds. £3 Bug Hunt @ Park Hall years of Earth history.This Learn about these it in team colours.These MONDAY 28 JULY MONDAY 18 AUGUST Country Park landscape and geology walk For more information about any of these SUNDAY 27 JULY 12PM-3PM fascinating nocturnal popular sessions are drop in 1PM-2.30PM WEDNESDAY 06 AUGUST 10AM-5PM Health & Wellbeing Day @ An ideal summer holiday will highlight places of events please contact Stoke-on-Trent City animals during this ever- and cost 50p plus admission. Summer Arts & Crafts @ 1PM-2.30PM National Football Museum Queens Park event for you and your interest throughout the Council’s Countryside Team on popular annual guided walk Kingsland Children’s Centre, Teddy Bears’ Picnic @ Yeaman & shopping in Manchester Family Fun Day with free children. Join our experts on country park and will include 01782 331889 with our local bat expert. Bat Throughout the holidays the Gladstone Eaves Lane, Bucknall ST2 9AS Street Park 15 places – please book. sports sessions, smoothies, a hunt for creepy crawlies in a stop for lunch. Please wear Unlimited places – just turn detectors will be available to Pottery Museum offers the chance to see Unlimited places – just turn 11-19yr olds. £3 games and hoola hoop and around our sandstone suitable outdoor clothing up.0-11yr olds.Free skilled demonstration staff at work and up.0-11yr olds.Free workshop help you pick out any bats canyons. Children must be and sturdy boots, and bring TUESDAY 19 AUGUST that give us a fly-past during Museums visitors can have a go at throwing a pot, supervised by an adult. Meet along your packed lunch. painting pottery or making bone china MONDAY 28 JULY THURSDAY 07 AUGUST 12PM-3PM the walk! Please bring a SUNDAY 27 JULY at the main visitor centre car Meet at the main visitor TUESDAY 22 TO FRIDAY 25 flowers,from £1 plus admission.During 1PM-2.30PM 12PM-3PM ROCKA & Arts and Crafts torch. Meet at the main park (OS grid reference SJ centre car park (OS grid JULY AND TUESDAY 29 JULY City Youth Centre Open Day Waterworld Session @ Hanley Park WW1 Commemorative Event August there will also be a programme of @ Tunstall Park visitor centre car park (OS 930447), off Hulme Road, reference SJ 930447), off TO FRIDAY 1 AUGUST special events to celebrate Gladstone’s Unlimited places – just turn 15 places – please book. Unlimited places – just turn grid reference SJ 930447), off Weston Coyney at 1pm.The Hulme Road,Weston Coyney 10.30AM-12.30PM & up. 11-19yr olds. Free 11-19yr olds. £5 up. 11-19yr olds. Free Details to be confirmed 40th anniversary as a museum.For more Hulme Road,Weston Coyney event will last for about one at 10.30am.This event will 1.15-3PM information on events and activities at SATURDAY 28 JUNE at 8.45pm. and a half hours. last for 3 to 4 hours. Summer Holiday Craft activity Gladstone Pottery Museum please see 10.30AM-1PM – Silly Sunglasses @ Potteries www.stokemuseums.org.uk or take a Insect Walk @ Berryhill Museum & Art Gallery look at the Gladstone Facebook page. Fields LNR Make a pair of silly A guided walk around sunglasses to wear in our Berryhill Fields looking at the new Seaside Exhibition. While every effort has insect life associated with Drop in. £1. been made to ensure ■ CALLING all humans! A space ship Wednesday 13 August 2.00-4.00 the various habitats found the accuracy of the has crash landed in the library. HELP! @ Bentilee Library on this urban nature reserve. WEDNESDAY 6 AUGUST information provided If you are a human, aged 9-13 years, ■ Thursday 14 August 10.00-12.00, Learn about butterflies, 10.30AM-4PM. in this events listing can you help to save mankind and 2.00-4.00 @ Bentilee Library beetles, dragonflies and lots Mr Whippy and the Conettes Stoke-on-Trent City Planet Earth? ■ Friday 15 August 10.00-12.00, of other insects that live on @ Potteries Museum & Art Council cannot accept Visit the Libraries of Life below to 2.00-4.00 @ Bentilee Library the fields with local expert Gallery any responsibility or find out what you need to do to start ■ Saturday 16 August 10.00-12.00 Dr Dave Skingsley. All Meet Mr Whippy and his liability for incorrect The Salmagundi: @ Bentilee Library necessary equipment will be Conettes as they entertain ■ nformation or any Monday 28 July 10.00-12.00, ■ Tuesday 19 August 10.00-12.00, provided, but you are you with a tasty combination errors that have 2.00-4.00 @ Tunstall Library 2.00-4.00 @ Meir Library welcome to bring your own. of 1950’s Hollywood musicals occurred. ■ Tuesday 29 July 10.00-12.00, ■ and the great British Wednesday 20 August 10.00- Please meet at the Hall Hill We recommend that 2.00-4.00 @ Tunstall Library 12.00, 2.00-4.00 @ Meir Library Drive entrance (OS grid holidayexperience. Free. ■ you always check with Wednesday 30 July 10.00-12.00, ■ Thursday 21 August 10.00-12.00 reference SJ 915455), the event organisers 2.00-4.00 @ Tunstall Library @ Meir Library just off Dividy Road, at ■ before attending. Thursday 31 July 10.00-12.00 @ ■ Friday 22 August 10.00-12.00, 10.30am. Tunstall Library 2.00-4.00 @ Meir Library ■ Friday 1 August 10.00-12.00, ■ Saturday 23 August 10.00-12.00 2.00-4.00 @ Tunstall Library @ Meir Library ■ Saturday 2 August 10.00-12.00 @ Tunstall Library Please don`t delay ■ Monday 11 August 10.00-12.00, WE NEED YOU! 2.00-4.00 @ Bentilee Library For further details, visit ■ Tuesday 12 August 10.00-12.00, www.stoke.gov.uk/libraries or ring 2.00-4.00 @ Bentilee Library 01782 238455. Our City p18 15/5/14 11:38 Page 1

18 Our City SUMMER 2014 City has a great appetite for a wild summer of art SENSATIONAL summer of events is being planned for Stoke-on-Trent by A arts team Appetite. Preparations are well under way for a programme that will combine spectacular outdoor shows with community events. Appetite is a £3m Arts Council England funded programme that aims to get more people involved in the arts in the city. The Appetite team work with groups across the city, building projects around people’s ideas and interests to enable these groups to develop their own events. Appetite started with a bang in summer 2013 when thousands of people enjoyed huge outdoor shows in Hanley Park and Forest Park. ART ATTACK: The Bell, a Summer 2014 is set to be just as spectacular. The first gripping, fiery spectacle, will be major event to be announced is The Bell – a gripping, fiery coming to the city this summer. outdoor spectacle expected to attract an audience of Photo: Ray Gibson around 3,000 people. Look out for further announcements and details on how to get tickets on the Appetite website: in the footsteps of New York, community groups across www.appetitestoke.co.uk. Paris and London. the city to build this year’s And the city’s streets and parks will come alive with Play Me I’m Yours is an fantastic programme. This is world-class shows this summer, culminating in a packed art project by British artist, an essential ingredient to the weekend finale of entertainment in the City Centre. Luke Jerram, that has success of Appetite. By Residents may also be surprised to see pianos in shopping reached more than six We want to show developing and producing centres, parks and Stoke-on-Trent streets this August. “” million people worldwide. projects in partnership with The pianos will be accompanied by the instruction Community groups and Play Me I’m Yours as Stoke-on-Trent follows there are as many communities, we can equip artists will be people with the skills, encouraged to knowledge and confidence decorate and different ways to enjoy to make events happen for create events themselves in years to come. around the the arts as there are to We want to support and pianos. inspire more people to Karl eat a meal... run their own art events so Greenwood, art is part of everyday life in Appetite Project Stoke-on-Trent. Director, said: “We want to show there “There will be plenty of wonderful events are as many different ways to enjoy the arts as there are to for people to get involved in across eat a meal. We want art to be enjoyed everywhere and Stoke-on-Trent this summer. anywhere, from our high streets to our pubs and parks. “Until now, Appetite has perhaps “A vibrant arts scene can significantly enhance a city’s been best known for the international reputation by breathing new life into an area, providing headline events we brought to the city economic growth and attracting inward investment. We last summer such as As The want to help people recognise the value and benefits of World Tipped and Bianco. “Events like these are taking part in art within their own lives and for the city as a whole.” A NOTABLE fantastic and help to build ■ PERFORMANCE: Stoke-on-Trent’s Appetite is part of the Creative People and Places Luke Jerram’s Play reputation as a city that Programme taking place in Stoke-on-Trent from Me I’m Yours will be can stage quality art 2013 to 2016. The programme is supported by at locations across events, but the Appetite funding from the National Lottery through Arts Stoke-on-Trent. programme offers much Council England and is led by the New Vic Theatre in Photo: Symon more than this. partnership with B Arts, Brighter Futures, Partners in Creative Learning and Staffordshire University. Reynolds “Over the past 12 months we have been Appetite is supported by Stoke-on-Trent City working closely with Council. Our City p19 15/5/14 11:41 Page 1

SUMMER 2014 Our City 19 CityCityCity investsinvestsinvests ininin high-techhigh-techhigh-tech busbusbus screensscreensscreens

HE city council is equipment to their buses which looking to improve uses GPS to track the vehicles’ Tinformation for bus progress and allows the system to tell waiting passengers of the passengers on a major bus expected arrival time of their bus route by using GPS using a countdown display. technology to allow them The system will also enable to access accurate bus people to check in advance their times. bus arrival times via their Working with local partners computer or hand-held device, and using funding from the removing the need to go to the government’s Local Sustainable bus stop to check the times Transport Fund, screens are earlier than necessary. already being installed at key bus The system will also allow Bus passenger Peggy stops along the Keele to City specific information to be given Samuel checks a Centre bus route, and behind the out to passengers, such as service timetable at the City scenes testing is taking place disruption due to bad weather, Centre bus station. prior to the system being allowing alternative arrangements switched on in the summer. to be made. The screens can display Bus users on the route will also identified to be upgraded, with Plans are also in place to Lack of passenger information either scheduled or real time benefit from WiFi access while more bus stop information provide passenger information has long been identified as a information about when buses travelling, allowing them to use screens and bus equipment to be screens at major destinations barrier to people using public are due to arrive. the time to work, relax or catch fitted in the next twelve months such as the University Hospital transport and it is hoped this is Bus operators are fitting the up with friends and family. to allow more passengers to have of North Staffordshire and the first step in improving the necessary vehicle location Further routes are being accurate arrival time information. Stoke-on-Trent Rail Station. situation. Home hoarding New clampdown on fly-tipping link to increase FLY-TIPPING – the illegal deposit of any waste on land or a highway in fire risks that has no licence to accept it. A simple enough definition, but one RESIDENTS are being urged to follow some that really hits home when it’s top tips to ensure they stay safe in their revealed that the council spends homes after figures revealed one in seven around £21,000 a month clearing fatal fires involved people who hoard. fly-tipped waste from sites across the The statistics relate specifically to city. Now a new campaign is under Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent and way to clampdown on the problem include all fire deaths in residential with the council’s Environmental properties since 2006. Crime Unit being boosted with extra Donna Broadhead, Staffordshire Fire and staff to track down those responsible. Rescue Service Prevention Manager for Four additional Environmental Stoke-on-Trent, said:“In our experience Crime Officers have been recruited to crack down on incidents of fly-tipping. hoarders are at increased risk of fire because They are working outside of normal they have more combustible materials in office hours to catch fly-tippers in the their home and should a fire occur it will act and are currently targeting four spread very rapidly. specific problem areas in the city. “We respect people’s decision to collect Team Manager, Cleansing and and keep possessions however, houses that Environmental Enforcement, Nick are cluttered are at a much greater risk of Bentley, said: “When a fly-tipping fire.” People are being encouraged to follow incident is reported to us we send out some small, simple steps to reduce their risk an investigation officer to look at the of fire: waste and try to identify links to who ■ Never store cylinders in the home. If you is responsible for it. need to use cylinders for medical “If we can identify who is reasons, keep them upright and responsible for the waste we invite them in for a formal interview and outdoors. ■ discuss with them how and why the Plan and practise how to escape from your home if there were a fire. waste ended up where it did. Environmental Crime “Sometimes there can be a ■ Ensure possessions are stored on stable Officer Dominic Gratty reasonable explanation, but if not we surfaces and do not stack items to an investigates a fly-tipping then move towards prosecution and unstable height. incident in the City Centre. present a case to our legal team who ■ Don’t store newspapers or mail in bulk – will take it to court.” paper is highly combustible. Anyone convicted for fly-tipping ■ Always ensure that cooking areas are faces a maximum fine of £50,000 they are paying has a carrier’s licence. If someone has bulky waste they need and/or 12 months imprisonment. If there is any doubt you can contact to get rid of, the council operates a clear of clutter and if you smoke, use a Nick added: “People sometimes pay the Environmental Agency on 0370 competitive service. proper ashtray that won’t burn. others to get rid of rubbish for them 850 6506. To arrange a collection plase call For more information, including advice and they need to ensure the person “Fly-tipping is simply irresponsible. 234234. and details of helpful organisations, visit www.helpforhoarders.co.uk Our City p20 15/5/14 11:44 Page 1

20 Our City SUMMER 2014 Need advice about children? TRY FISH The city council's Family Information Service Hub (FISH) provides information and advice to families with children aged from newborn to 19 years.Whether it's a quick call to check a telephone number to a service, or a more detailed discussion to find childcare close to home, near to work or somewhere inbetween, they’re here to help...

NTIL the late 1990s what not to do – we provide really Stoke-on-Trent parents who useful advice and support and Uwanted advice on childcare we point them in the right issues such as schools, family direction. “We try to give them all the benefits, behaviour problems or information they need to make any one of hundreds of other an informed decision about what topics, faced an uphill struggle is best for their child. We can help simply to work out who to speak with information about benefits, to. with form-filling, provide information That all changed with the and advice about doctors, dentists, introduction of a pilot project in the nurseries – almost anything to do with city 15 years ago which sought to children and families. bring together information and advice “We don’t just tell people about on a wide variety of subjects for their nearest services, we give them parents with children. options and information so that they Today, Stoke-on-Trent’s Family can make a proper decision about Information Service Hub (FISH) is a what is best for their child.” one-stop shop for support and FISH gets around 300 inquiries a information about childcare and month from parents across the city. family issues. In addition to their main They are confident that “if we can’t responsibilities its three staff maintain give you the information you need we the city’s Family Service Directory know someone who can”. which lists more than 500 sources of Jane Fallows has been involved with support and information including the service since 2003 and has seen voluntary and community the range of its information and advice organisations, self-help groups and Abdul Rahim reads with his services continually expand. specialist support bodies. daughter Sara who now has a She said: “Every day we receive calls Jane added: “It is a really broad from parents who are not sure where service provision. We will try to answer place at a nursery after FISH to turn to for help and advice or who any question that someone puts to us supplied the family information don’t have confidence in the advice – and if we can’t, we always know about funded places. they have obtained. someone who can. We will find that “We don’t tell people what to do or answer.” providing the options

How FISH can help you... WHEN Hanley father Abdul Rahim discovered were able to check with all the childcare THE city council’s Family Information Service Hub can offer help and that the nursery he had chosen for his providers near our home and came up with advice on a range of services available to parents and children. Here – in three-year-old daughter Sara could no longer three that had funded places available. alphabetical order – are just a few of the topics: offer funded places he was not sure how to “They gave me the options and I was able go about finding a replacement. to choose which one was the most suitable With Sara due to start nursery at the end of for Sara to go to. Activities Health/Nutrition April, time to secure alternative childcare was “FISH did a really good job and provided Adoption and fostering Leisure Services rapidly ticking away. me with the information I needed to make Behaviour Problems Parental rights and entitlements But help came when Mr Rahim learned the right decision. Bereavement Physical Activity about a FISH outreach event at Thomas “It was important to find a place for Breast Feeding Physical and mental health Boughey Children’s Centre. He attended the Sara because, like all children, she needs to Bullying Private Fostering arrangements event and was able to seek advice from one learn the things that will help her when she Childcare Sex and Relationships of the FISH advisers. starts school, things like language skills and Children’s Centres Schools/Education Services Mr Rahim, of Bower St, Hanley, said:“They interacting with other children.” Child Development Smoking Child Safety Sport and Recreation activities Early Education for 2, 3 and 4-year olds Substance misuse Doctors Support for parents of Domestic Violence disabled children Support groups “”We don’t tell people what to do or Drugs Family Benefits Tax Credits Healthy Lifestyles Work/Life balance what not to do – we provide really

CONTACT FISH: useful advice and support and we Phone: 01782 232200 Email: [email protected] In person: Floor 2, Civic Centre, Stoke-on-Trent, ST4 1HH. point them in the right direction. Online Directory: stoke.gov.uk/fishdirectory JANE FALLOWS Our City p21 15/5/14 11:46 Page 1

SUMMER 2014 Our City 21 Life changing support GROUP that scooped a national about. I just can’t thank them enough commendation for its work with for what they’ve done for our family.” Ayoung children has been praised by The Discovery Group is an early year’s assessment group based at the one of the families it supported. Child Development Centre in The Discovery Group, which carries out early Hartshill. The team receives years assessments at the Child Development Centre referrals from a multi-agency panel (CDC) in Stoke-On-Trent, received a Highly of professionals who have concerns Commended certificate at the Shine A Light Awards about a child’s communication or ceremony in London and finished runner up for the developmental needs. Supporting Working Together Award. children up to the age of five, Among those who have received support is Laura colleagues from health, education Button, who has a three-year-old son with autism, and social care work together at called Baeley. the CDC to assess their needs Baeley received his diagnosis following the and discover their potential. This assessment – which has enabled his family to move means children don’t have to wait on with the support they need. Mum-of-two Laura, for multiple assessments, by of , said: “Before Baeley was referred to the different professionals in different group I had been pushing for someone to listen to us venues, which was previously the and we were getting nowhere. But now I feel case. liberated – we are really making progress. I knew he The co-ordinated group is made was autistic, but he was never properly diagnosed up of professionals from Stoke-on- until he’d been attending the CDC. Trent City Council, Staffordshire and “When we were referred to The Discovery Group Stoke-on-Trent Partnership NHS Trust the improvement was just incredible. Before, we were (SSOTP), the University Hospital of going to appointments all over the place. Baeley was North Staffordshire (UHNS) and the so anxious, and I couldn’t ever leave his side. But voluntary agency Scope Face2Face. attending weekly sessions and having all the Louise Hudson, Scope Face2Face professionals in one place – sharing information and Co-ordinator for Stoke-on-Trent, said: “We offering joint support – has made such a difference. are honoured to be part of The Discovery “For Baeley there was an understanding about his Group – it’s integrated working at its best. Health, behaviour. And through the support we have education, social care, the voluntary sector and received, his anxiety levels have dropped and he is parents all work together to ensure that children and Laura interacting with people a lot more.” families are at the heart of the assessment process. Button with I am sure all who have been involved with the group Laura added: “The group also offers fantastic her son advice for parents. Everyone there puts you at ease, feel a great sense of achievement to have been given Baeley. and you come out of the sessions so excited about this award. It is a gold standard service and shows carrying on with the activities you’ve been learning that joint working is achievable.” Six graduates step up to social work placements

STEP Up to Social Work Trainee Social Workers are now on placement in Stoke-on-Trent. Six graduates, four who were previously employed by the council, have just started their 14-month Staffordshire University Post Graduate Diploma course as part of the programme funded by the Department for Education. The council leads a partnership with six other midlands local authorities and Staffordshire University who deliver the course designed for graduate career changers to re-train as social workers. One of the latest trainees Jim Bates, who previously worked for the council in Children and Young People’s Services, said:“I’ve wanted to be a social worker for four or five years but with bills to pay, training opportunities are hard to come by. “Step Up has bridged the gap so that’s fantastic and the council deserves credit for investing in our development.” Social Worker Michelle Black, who also worked for the council before she graduated from Step Up, said:“The course was demanding but rewarding. I’ve now gained an MA in Social Work and am working in a team that safeguards some of the most vulnerable children in our city.” Hannah Byrne, the region’s Step Up to Social Work Programme Manager, said:“The expectations are extremely high as these individuals are required to study at a Post Graduate level whilst completing social work placements in both adults and children’s services – all with complex caseloads. “I’ve been a social worker for Stoke-on-Trent since 2000 and recognise the trends in increased complexity and volume of work.We are fortunate to have some excellent Trainee Social Workers on placement in Stoke-on-Trent are, left to right, Louise Sargeant, Laura Stevenson, Dan experienced practitioners here and this programme aims Machin, Jess Foster and Jim Bates.The sixth trainee, Charlotte Wooliscroft was unable to attend the photo call. to complement our existing services and benefit the residents in our city.” Our City p22 15/5/14 11:52 Page 1

22 Our City SUMMER 2014 Assisted travel to get people into jobs

HE council’s Home to European Regional Development Work assisted travel Fund. Home To Work Support Tscheme has helped more Officer Michelle Evans said: than 1,000 unemployed “So far, we’ve helped over 1,000 people to overcome transport Stoke-on-Trent residents into problems to get them back into jobs. employment but we can help a lot The programme is designed to more. help job seekers with the offer of “We hope to work with another employment to get to work and 500 people before the end of this supports others employees whose year and can offer a range of Julie Thompson uses her shift patterns mean they can face support that suits the person’s discounted annual bus travel problems. individual needs and pass to travel to travel to Help on offer includes support circumstances.” work in Shelton from with travel planning, free bus ● For more information, her home in Ball Green. passes, access to a subsidised flexi contact the Home To Work team taxi service and even the loan of on 01782 235367, H2W@stoke pedal or electrical bikes. The .gov.uk or visit stoke.gov.uk/ scheme is financed through the hometowork Free bus passes help mums back to work MUMS Julie Thompson and Sian Green involves two buses and Smart team. It has kept her travel Smith have to keep an eye on the takes 40 minutes. costs down to £45 a month. It’s easy to borrow a cycle purse strings so their free Home A graduate with a degree in Business Apprentice Sian Smith PEDAL and electric cycles meeting for document checks To Work bus passes mean they Forensic Science and Criminology, was facing daily travel costs of £5 available to loan are just one including proof of employment, can now afford to go back to she said:“Getting the bus would when she turned to Home To option for clients contacting the address and identity. work. cost me about £70 a month so my Work for help.The 24-year-old Home To Work scheme and If eligible for the cycle Neither drive a car and they free pass is a massive saving to from Etruria, who has a daughter looking for bespoke travel scheme authorisation can be both rely on public transport to me. I love my job so I can’t thank aged six, successfully applied for a solutions. issued there and then with get around so they were worried Home To Work enough. I couldn’t pass and has not looked back Bikes are hired from a third arrangements made quickly for travel costs would stop them from afford to work without my bus since. party supplier and paid for by bike delivery to either a home being able to accept job offers. pass.” She said:“I love it and really the programme.They come with or work address. Returning the They turned to Home To Work and Julie started off with a enjoy working at the REACH pupil safety checks, a helmet, bike is just as easy.The loan after a quick and easy application three-month pass but then referral unit in Trent Vale but reflectors, high visibility wear period for someone in paid process were delighted to get transferred to a discounted before that I’d been on Jobseekers and a puncture repair kit as well employment is limited to a their Smart bus passes. annual pass subsidised by the Allowance. I couldn’t work if it as maintenance equipment. three-month maximum. For an Mum-of-two Julie, aged 38, now Government’s Local Sustainable wasn’t for the bus pass so it’s Applying to borrow a bike is apprentice on a low income, the works 20-hours a week as a Transport Fund (LSTF) after asking helped me a lot. It saves me £25 a simple. Clients can go online or period is extended to six doctors’ receptionist in Shelton. her employer to sign up to the week, which is a lot of money. call to arrange a 10-minute months. Her journey from home in Ball scheme run by the council’s Travel Everything’s working out brilliant.” Folding bike hire offers commuters a solution THE council’s Travel Smart team is big advantage is that we’re providing backing the Brompton Dock folding an integrated travel solution. bike hire scheme based at Stoke “Taking a conventional biycle on railway station. the train can be difficult but with One of 35 around the UK, a dock our bikes you just fold them up and containing folding bikes available for treat them like hand luggage. hire for just £2.50 per day is based “You can save significantly on on Platform One. parking costs as well as save time The folding bike is welcome on all and beat the traffic as you won’t public transport and fits in the boot have to wait for public transport of a car. It can be stored at home or when you get to your destination.” even under a desk at work. Registering to use a Brompton is Useful in three key ways, the bike simple and the company is offering can be used for an onward journey frequent membership, usually on arrival in Stoke, an outward costing £20, for just £1 to the first journey because of its ease of use 100 people using the promo code and is available for day hire for STOKE14. anyone travelling around the city. It There are Brompton Docks in can be returned to the dock in Stoke Manchester, Birmingham and or any of the nationwide points. Warrington with more opening all LSTF Business Engagement Officer Sarah Hollinshead takes a folding bike from the Brompton Dock Managing the time. To find out more and Brompton Dock storge facility on Platform One at Stoke railway station. Director Harry Scrope said: “The register, go to bromptondock.co.uk Our City p23 15/5/14 11:55 Page 1

SUMMER 2014 Our City 23 Competition is chance to turn start-up business ideas into cash support An enterprise competition called Staffordshire-born business Applications will be scrutinised by an present a pitch to three judges – THE START UP is being held across entrepreneur Dominic List – who expert panel who will draw up a including Dominic – with three winners Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire featured on Channel Four’s Secret shortlist based on the most enterprising being announced on the night. to help people grow their start-up and Millionaire programme. and sustainable ideas. Each winner will receive a share of the fledgling business ideas. The event is being organised by the The competition will culminate in a £30,000 total grant money, 12 months Three winners will share in tens of council along with its Start-Up Loan finals evening on 16 July to which all free mentoring from the judges, six thousands of pounds of grant money, partner Youth Enterprise. applicants will be invited. months free accommodation in a 12 months of mentoring, plus a Contenders with an idea for a new They will receive inspirational talks business centre plus a raft of free comprehensive package of free start-up business, or any enterprise less from successful entrepreneurs and expert advice and marketing support. business support. than 12-months old, are invited to guidance from business specialists. For further information and to apply The judging panel will include North apply. The six shortlisted applicants will go to www.thestart-up.co.uk Parents star in TV show on adoption ROUD parents Glenn and ago. They adopted Jack when he was Chris from Stoke-on-Trent three years old and a few years later Pfeature in a new ITV series as Logan when he was two. They knew they had room for more they extend their adopted family children and approached the council through the council. again as Glenn explained: “We were Episode Two of Wanted:A Family of My looking to adopt a third child so when Own follows the civil partners who have our social worker suggested two we been together for 14 years as they adopt were really surprised. Chris fell off his siblings to become dads to four children. seat. They moved in just before The programme makers were allowed Christmas. They’re doing really well unprecedented access to follow the process and are completely different children. as the couple were matched with a brother, Our social workers have been just as now aged four, and his two-year-old sister. excited for us as we are ourselves. It’s Chris, a 38-year-old warehouse operative, immensely fulfilling. said: “I never ever thought about having a “To adopt, people think that you have to family. I thought with being gay, children have led a sterling life but you can be gay, were completely out of the question.” straight, married or not.You can be in a His partner Glenn, who is 35 and works rented home, in or out of work, anything. in further education, said: “As the eldest “If it’s in your heart to love a child, to be brother of four, my life has always been optimistic about their future and not be about children. So, perhaps for me, the thinking about producing a mini-me, hardest part of coming to the realisation then I’d strongly recommend it. that you’re gay is coming to the “We’ve had great support from our understanding that you’re not going to be a council social workers and it’s working out father – so my whole future that I thought fantastically for us and our children.” Glenn, left, and Chris with two of their about as a child had been wiped out.” For more information on adoption, four adopted children, Logan, left, But the couple did look into adoption call 01782 235020 or email dutyadoption aged five, and nine-year-old Jack. and were approved by the council six years @stoke.gov.uk Extra safety car will target schools with the most parking complaints SEVEN schools are being targeted for St Mary’s C of E (A) Primary School in parking enforcement action now a second Tunstall, said: “Some of the parking is safety car equipped with a video camera atrocious. I’ve seen people park on the has been delivered to the council. corner and double-park, both of which are The schools where most complaints have illegal. I’ve even seen parents stop on the been made about illegal parking are zig-zag lines and stay in their cars as kids Parkhall, Sneyd Green, Waterside, get out into oncoming traffic. Packmoor, Etruscan and The Willows “It’s actually got worse so I think these primary schools as well as Weston Coyney camera cars are a really good idea. To be Junior. honest, we could even do with more Presentations at the schools have authorised personnel to monitor parking outlined the plan to enforce keep clear when the enforcement cars aren’t there. Concerned areas, zig zag markings, pedestrian “My message to other parents when parent, Lorry crossings and kerb marked areas. they’re parking outside schools is simple – Driver Chris More schools will be targeted at a later think child safety.” Birchall. date. The new car frees up the existing Ian Tamburello, the council’s Strategic enforcement vehicle to respond more Manager, Enforcement and Operations, quickly to complaints at other school sites. said: “It would be great if we never action is backed up by education initiatives Those caught parking illegally will face enforced because everyone parked and with the schools. Our simple message to civil enforcement penalties. drove sensibly. This is about encouraging people parking near schools is, follow the Lorry Driver Chris Birchall, whose people to act responsibly to keep our rules of the road or risk a penalty, or worse, daughter Amber, aged six, attends children safe around our schools. Our an accident caused by you.” Our City p24 15/5/14 12:04 Page 1

24 Our City SUMMER 2014 Funding on offer for innovative companies to grow and create jobs INNOVATIVE companies are being invited to City companies and others across funding. For more information call Vanessa been unable to raise finance elsewhere. share part of a £3million funding pot Staffordshire are being invited to apply for Darlington, the council’s Programmes and The fund is provided jointly by the expected to create new and sustainable jobs grants from the fund. Key to successful Data Manager on 01782 233671 or e-mail, European Regional Development Fund in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire. applications will be the ability to [email protected]. (ERDF) and the council. Managed by the The Innovative Growth fund provides gap demonstrate how a company's proposals A separate pot of cash is available to firms Black Country Reinvestment Society (BCRS), funding for companies planning to take on can generate new jobs, safeguard existing with fewer than 50 employees who have not the scheme provides financial support bigger premises, invest in new equipment, employment and be innovative. been able to access finance through ranging from £10,000 to £50,000 to plant or machinery or in research and Firms hoping to land a share of the money conventional routes such as the banks.The businesses based in Stoke-on-Trent. development.The cash has been awarded to – with available grants ranging from £10,000 Stoke-on-Trent Business Loan helps smaller For more information contact BCRS by the city council following a successful bid to to £499,999 – must be able to deliver their companies which have a sound business telephoning 0845 313 8410 or at the Government’s Regional Growth Fund. project by March 2015 and provide match plan to create or safeguard jobs but have [email protected] Hi-tech project in a bottle kiln

ONGTON life gone by is celebrated in a Lbrand new interactive exhibition in a at CoRE – the £12.3 million Centre of Refurbishment Excellence created on the site of the former Enson pottery works. Created using memorabilia and photographs donated by local people, the exhibition is housed in a Grade ll listed oven, which was adapted using grants from The view of the bottle the Heritage kiln oven from above. Lottery Fund and the European Regional Development Fund. The exhibition chronicles not only the Enson works but also Longton life including the pubs, parks and parties. Interactive screens bring the town’s story to life and visitors can, uniquely, interact with the Exhibition visitors Rich Locket and Oliver displays by adding their own Fencott examine a digital memory map history and memories using inside the bottle kiln. social media. All the lights and screens are powered by solar interactive every weekday panels. exhibition is the ideal except Bank Holidays The highlight of the exhibition way for communities and from 9am to 5pm. Visitors can is the chance to view the bottle families to tour a piece of local get in by picking up an access oven from above – an experience history. code from Longton library, not available anywhere else in “The exhibition is a perfect Gladstone Pottery Museum or Councillor Sheila Pitt, the country. mix of old and new and visitors at the CoRE reception. then Lord Mayor, cuts Heritage Project Officer Elise need to leave at least an hour ■ For more information, visit a ribbon to officially Turner said: “Longton is the because there is so much to see.” stoke.gov.uk/ensonworks open the exhibition. product of its heritage and this The free exhibition is open heritage or call 01782 792903. Council-sponsored stand led to Harrods store order for ceramics firm DIMBLEBY Ceramics from Trentham who took part in the three-day Top networks and the benefits of a world- “You could tell last year there were has won an order from Drawer trade show at Earls Court, the renowned pottery heritage. still difficulties in the retail sector but so prestigious department store firm is now supplying a selection of Mathew Dimbleby, pictured left, said: far this year we have been constantly Harrods – after showcasing animal shaped hangings and other gifts “For us this is a really good step in the busy sending orders out.” its handcrafted gifts to the top store. right direction and gives us a foot in the Husband and wife team Mathew and on a London The stand, Ceramics: Made in Stoke- door. Rachel Dimbleby both grew up in the exhibition stand on-Trent, highlighted the advantages on “It all stems from Top Drawer when Potteries and combine their love of provided by the offer to ceramic industries wanting to we had some interest, but until you get ceramics and watercolour illustrations council. set up in the city, including established an order you never know whether it’s in their products ranging from mugs One of 11 firms supply chains, convenient distribution paid off. and jugs to hangings and cake stands. Our City p25 15/5/14 12:06 Page 1

SUMMER 2014 Our City 25

Rosy Cheeks Managing Director Rose Atkins with Caden Hamilton and £8m boost Sienna Shenton, both aged two, at the new for nursery Bentilee nursery. education to create free places

HOUSANDS more of going to primary school. It has children are set to also given him some interaction Tbenefit now £8million with other children. “He has just turned three and I is being pumped into will make sure he carries on going nursery education in to nursery. Anyone who is eligible Stoke-on-Trent over the for these free places should take next two years. advantage as it can really benefit The money from central the child.” Government will help extend For more information and to existing venues, build new find out about the eligibility provision and provide free nursery criteria, please visit places for eligible two-year-olds. stoke.gov.uk/beststart or call To give families a wide choice the Stoke-on-Trent Family of good quality early years Information Service Hub (FISH) education, the council is on 01782 232200. spending: ■ £2.5million to create 920 free places for two year olds until September. ■ Just over £657,000 to help increase the capacity of nursery education through Two-year-olds development projects. London Evans, ■ Places for 150 at Bentilee £950,000 on 1,000 summer left, and Evie term places. Lockett play with THE council’s funding support under the council’s 15-hours ■ Around £4million to make a toy garage at has already helped one nursery funded scheme. Rose said: 2,170 nursery places Rosy Cheeks open for business in Bentilee “The local community will available through autumn Nursery. where nursery places were really benefit from this capital this year and spring 2015. previously limited. funding scheme as it has Mother-of-three Tammy Rosy Cheeks in Chelsmford resulted in a building being Mountford’s son Mathew has Drive is the second nursery refurbished that will offer already benefited from the 15 free opened by Rose Atkins and her much-needed nursery provision hours he gets through the council business partner.They spent to local children and families. and his sister Tiffany is set to take council-sourced financial “Sending children to a advantage of the offer as well. backing on renovation and nursery helps prepare them for Their mum said: “I have really seen a difference with Mathew equipment. primary school and helps with since he has been going to The nursery employs five social development. It’s also a nursery. Before, his brother Kory full-time childcare professionals time when any educational would answer for him but now he and has plans to take on a needs can be identified and speaks for himself. further seven – up to three will acted upon. I think anyone who “I am really proud of Mathew be apprentices.The nursery has is eligible for the free places for as he has achieved so much and I the potential to take around two-year-olds should take think it will really help him ahead 150 children aged two to five advantage of the offer.”

Nursery expansion – council acts ahead of Government deadline SUFFICIENCY and Access Project Officer, “Evidence shows that regular, high quality A child is eligible for early education Educational Needs or an Education, Health Rob Vernon, said the council had decided to early education has lasting benefits for all offering up to 570 hours a year, with effect and Care plan; act immediately rather than waiting for the children. In order to maximise the from the term following their second They are entitled to Disability Living Government’s September deadline for opportunities for children living in Stoke-on- birthday, if: Allowance; or expanding eligibility criteria because it Trent to take up high quality early education They are looked after by the local They are no longer looked-after by the wanted to give children the best possible – regardless of their parents ability to pay – authority; local authority as a result of an adoption start in life. benefiting their social, physical and mental They meet the criteria used to determine order, a special guardianship order or a He said: “Nationally, with effect development and helping them prepare for eligibility for Free School Meals; residence order. from September 2014, the number of two- school, the September 2014 national Their family receives Working Tax Credits For further information please visit year-olds entitled to funded early education eligibility criteria for two-year-olds will be and have an annual gross income of no more stoke.gov.uk/beststart or call the will be extended to include those from the implemented throughout Stoke-on-Trent than £16,190 per year; Stoke-on-Trent Family Information Service 40 per cent most disadvantaged families. with immediate effect.” They have a current statement of Special Hub (FISH) on 01782 232200. Our City p26 15/5/14 15:18 Page 1

26 Our City SUMMER 2014

As the Stoke-on-Trent Safeguarding Children Board starts another year, Manager CAROLE PRESTON takes a look at the achievements of the last year. Everyone is responsible for safety

AFEGUARDING is definitely everyone’s responsibility – and Sas a Safeguarding Children Board we have worked closely with the local media and the community to help promote safeguarding awareness across the city. The promotion of safe sleeping has been one of our primary campaigns to highlight the dangers of unsafe sleeping www.safeguardingchildren.stoke.gov.uk arrangements. Our message is: “don’t sleep in the same importantly on the children. Promoting safe sleeping bed as your baby if you smoke, drink or Through our promotional campaigns, we arrangements for babies has take drugs or if your baby was low birth are able to highlight where victims or been a key campaign for the weight or born prematurely. Never sleep on witnesses of this sort of abuse can go to get Safeguarding Board. a sofa or armchair with your baby.” help and support. As well as this, there have been a number The sexual exploitation of children and of babies who have sadly died when they young people is very much a local as well who is coerced into being exploited. delighted with the joint work that we have have put nappy sacks into their mouth. as a national concern. Pupils actively joined in with the done with the Staffordshire Safeguarding Babies naturally grasp anything and nappy Here in Stoke-on-Trent, professionals are production – called Chelsea’s Choice – and Children Board and intend to develop sacks can kill. Babies can suffocate or working really hard to raise the awareness we intend to bring this production back these arrangements throughout the choke on them, so we have embarked on a of this with children and young people and into our schools towards the end of the forthcoming year. campaign to highlight these dangers. with parents, carers and local businesses. year in an endeavour to keep raising Finally, on behalf of the Safeguarding We have promoted awareness around We have also raised awareness of online awareness of the dangers among our young Children Board, I would like to thank all private fostering to the wider community, grooming of children by sexual predators. people. members of the public and professionals which is different from the usual fostering The Safeguarding Children Board will Ensuring that our professionals have for their commitment to helping to keep arrangements that people are more familiar continue to focus on this issue for the access to high quality and up to date our children and young people safe. with. foreseeable future. We have been very training remains a priority for us too. If you want to find more information Domestic violence and abuse remain successful in bringing a national theatre We have completely reviewed our existing about any of the above or, you want to see high on our agenda. Obviously we are group into senior schools and academies in training opportunities and use the expertise the full Annual Report please go to our really concerned about the impact that our area. of our own professionals who form part of website: www.safeguardingchildren. domestic abuse has on the victim but most The actors tell the story of a young girl a multi-agency training team. We are also stoke.gov.uk Hundreds take part Tops for health in recorder festival check take-up THE council is among the top HUNDREDS of talented played in her first local authorities in the young musicians from recorder festival aged Midlands for implementing a across the city’s schools five, said:“I started to programme aimed at the took to the stage for play the recorder with prevention of serious health two concerts as part of my mum when I was conditions. a popular festival. three years old.The first Diabetes UK’s report NHS More than 30 schools time I was involved in Health Checks in local authorities signed up for the the Recorder Festival – the story so far shows that the annual Recorder was when I was five and city has the third highest Festival – organised by was at Hamilton Infants uptake in the region, and is the City Music Service. School. 15th nationally. Almost 600 children “I play in a lot of The total eligible population from 32 schools concerts locally and at for the health check in performed at the university and hope to Stoke-on-Trent from April to Victoria Hall for the continue performing, December 2013 was 70,315, lunchtime and matinee alongside my theatre with 10.1 percent (7,078) of events. work in the future.” those residents taking up the The festival, which City Music Service offer. has been held in the Leader Harry Hitchen Stoke-on-Trent is regarded by city since 1999, also said:“I am pleased to Public Health England as a lead saw performances from see that so many innovator for the NHS Health the City Youth Recorder schools signed up for Checks Programme, which aims Ensemble and talented the concerts – it gave Three participants in the recorder festival pictured at the Victoria Hall are, to help prevent heart and soloist Anna Bradburn. their pupils a chance to left to right, Michael Harris, aged 10, of St Teresa’s Catholic Primary,Trent kidney disease, stroke, diabetes The 19-year-old, of be part of something Vale, Eren Alici, 11, of Waterside Primary, Hanley, and Tiffany Owen, nine, of and certain types of dementia. Sneyd Green, who they will never forget.” St Maria Goretti Catholic Academy, Bentilee. Our City p27 15/5/14 12:12 Page 1

SUMMER 2014 Our City 27

Ron Morris checks his Aiming to blood pressure at home. make city healthier ORE initiatives are overweight adults piloting the use of planned this year as the SMS text-based motivational Mcouncil pledges to build on a behaviour change support called successful first 12 months as the body Text4Change. ● responsible for promoting better Complete the development and begin the implementation of a public health across the city. partnership strategy to halt the rise of One of the council’s aims, while obesity in children, built on the findings supporting health service partners, is to of a Local Government Association increase healthy life expectancy and childhood obesity peer challenge. reduce infant mortality rates in the local population. ● Support 3,000 smokers to quit Key to this is cutting the risks through the provision of specialist associated with developing long-term behaviour and nicotine replacement conditions. The team has pledged in therapy medication like Zyban and 2014-15 to: Champix. ● Help to prevent heart disease, Young people continue to be targeted stroke, diabetes, kidney disease and for support – with schools now being certain types of dementia through the asked to encourage more pupils to walk, delivery of more than 6,000 NHS cycle or use public transport to get there. Health Checks. More schools are being urged to sign ● Support over 3,000 adults to lower up to stop smoking courses and the public their risk of cardio vascular disease, health team plans to work with fast food which includes stroke, heart diseases outlets near schools to make sure reduced and certain types of dementia, through sugar and fat options are on their menus. the provision of tailored lifestyle The public health team is also aiming support. to complete service reviews of weight ● Launch a low-cost obesity management and specialist stop-smoking intervention programme for services.

Achievements PUBLIC health successes during the financial year 2013-14 include: I know some Routine health check saved Ron’s life ■ 3,000 residents used the Lifestyle “” FREE health checks being promoted by the His blood pressure reading was 273 over 191. Service to achieve real improvements people are council almost certainly saved screen printer “I knew something was wrong straight in their health and wellbeing Ron Morris’s life. away,” he said.“I was booked in for an including weight loss, increased He was found to have life-threateningly emergency appointment with a doctor an healthy eating and physical activity reluctant to go for high blood pressure and was immediately hour later.The doctor tested me again and levels. admitted to hospital for two and a half days immediately sent me to be admitted onto ■ More than 7,000 people had a things like health of treatment. the University Hospital of North free NHS Health Check, learned The 48-year-old father of three from Staffordshire’s Acute Medical Unit, which is about their risks of developing checks... but I said: “It’s as simple as this – actually where my wife Janet works. cardio vascular disease and if I’d not had my health check, there’s every “You don’t get second chances with things received advice on what simple chance I wouldn’t be alive today.” like this.The doctors told me I was a walking steps to take to lead healthy, would urge Now the council’s public health heart attack or stroke. I know some people independent lives. department has launched an awareness are reluctant to go for things like health ■ anyone over 40 to campaign to increase take-up of the NHS checks for many reasons but I would urge Over 2,400 smokers quit with the Health Check. It is particularly targeting anyone over 40 to have one.They’re free, support of a public health accredited people who have not been to their GP for they only take around 20 minutes and they provider. Partnership work resulted in have one. It could two years, men and women from the South could save your life.” a more effective local stop-smoking Asian community and men aged 40 to 49. For more information about the NHS offer as measured by a quit rate, save your life. Ron had his routine check after receiving a Health Checks, go to stoke.gov.uk/ which increased by over 20 per cent. letter from his GP surgery. healthcheck

Workforce training project improves business skills STAFF from 16 local companies went “back to council and the university.The aim of the wider aspect of learning, as it benefits both the classroom” to boost their skills as part of a initiative was to get the local economy the company and the individual.” £30,000 Workforce Development scheme. growing through investment in the current The 53 learners were presented with Jointly funded by the council, Staffordshire workforce’s skills. certificates by the then Lord Mayor Councillor University and participating firms, the scheme “Learners have been able to implement the Sheila Pitt to mark their success on the saw 53 people upgrade their skills in ideas picked up on the programme in the Workforce Development project. leadership and management, information workplace – with some great results.” Future funding is being sought through the technology, telecommunications, and Pottery company Wade Ceramics enrolled Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Local enterprise and entrepreneurship. 15 of its workers on the programme. Enterprise Partnership while bids will also be Sarah Tudor, Head of Employer Engagement Managing Director Paul Farmer said:“We submitted to the European Social Fund (ESF) at the university, said:“This is a great example consider it vitally important to continue to to help the programme continue in to the Wade Ceramics Managing of close partnership working between the invest in our staff both technically and in the 2014-15 financial year. Director Paul Farmer. Our City p28 15/5/14 12:23 Page 1

28 Our City SUMMER 2014 Age Friendly City status recognises commitment to older residents STOKE-ON-TRENT has been awarded Age Friendly City status by the World Health Stoke Speaks Organisation (WHO). Out Volunteer The announcement was Communication made following the council’s Ambassador Laura Rossi commitment to creating with her son Jenson at physical and social urban the Treehouse environments that promote Children’s Centre, healthy and active ageing, Bentilee. and a good quality of life for older residents. The WHO Global Network of Age-friendly Cities and Communities (GNAFCC) was established to foster the exchange of learning and ideas between cities and communities worldwide. It is an international effort aimed at helping cities cope with the rapid ageing of populations and increasing urbanisation. Stoke-on-Trent is one of 11 cities in the UK to have achieved Age Friendly City status, joining the forerunner, Manchester.The council’s public health department has been working hard to increase consultation with older people and encourage organisations to become more age friendly. According to the WHO, an age-friendly city is an inclusive and accessible urban Child speech initiative environment that promotes active ageing.The guide identifies areas that might influence the health and has sound successes quality of life of older people. campaign to tackle language delay Speaks Out was delivering high aspirations for dummies and bottles can affect speech and among young children in Stoke- children’s speech, language and language development – and encouraging Wood burning Aon-Trent is paying dividends and communication development to give children parents to play and read with their children. the best start in life. Janet added: “We want all children in is set to continue its pioneering work. Stoke-on-Trent to grow up as happy, The Stoke Speaks Out programme was “There has been great progress in boiler installed at children’s language skills across the city confident communicators.” launched in 2004 after a survey of Laura Rossi is a Stoke Speaks Out three-year-olds in local nurseries revealed that through the combined efforts of parents, enterprise centre carers and practitioners.”she said. Volunteer Communication Ambassador who a staggering 64 per cent had some level of was reassured by the service after her young THE council has made a further “Communication is everybody’s language delay – meaning that their speech son Jenson, aged two, seemed a little quiet commitment to low carbon was not as advanced as it should be. business and we need to ensure the whole city has the right information at and uncommunicative. energy production with the The multi-agency Stoke Speaks Out team She said: “As it turns out there was nothing installation of a eco-friendly saw partners from education, health, the the right time and that children are given every opportunity to develop their wrong with Jenson, but it was good to have biomass boiler in one of its voluntary sector and the council collaborating communication to the full.” that support and reassurance. I now talk to business enterprise centres. to create a long-term vision of “a city that The latest Stoke Speaks Out initiative is the other young mums at the Treehouse The inefficient system communicates – where children and young Children’s Centre about my experience and people are able to take full advantage of Talk To Me campaign in which a series of previously used to heat St messages underlining the importance of help to pass on the messages about how to health, education and employment improve children’s language skills.” James House business opportunities”. listening, talking and communicating, will be enterprise centre in Longton promoted through volunteer ambassadors. The programme involves training delivered ● has been replaced by a new to staff in the city working with young Key messages in the campaign include Stoke Speaks Out is based at The Civic heating system and boiler, children and their families, to help them switching off TV and other gadgets to give Centre, Glebe St, Stoke-on-Trent ST4 1HH. which is fuelled by surplus tree understand early attachment, child children the chance to communicate with Telephone 01782 234501 (Monday to Friday, material from parks and green development and speech and language parents and each other, not using dummies 9am-5pm) or email spaces. development. The training enables staff to after a child is 12-months old – over use of [email protected] It forms part of the ARBOR identify children with a language delay and to project, which is 50 percent provide relevant advice and support to the funded by the European child and their families. Four new synthetic grass tennis courts open Regional Development Fund. It Since being launched the programme has FOUR synthetic grass tennis courts Established in 1881, the club has been carried out by 13 trained more than 4,500 people including nursery staff, parents, health visitors, speech and floodlights costing £100,000 regularly stages All England and partners from six European and language therapists, librarians, midwives, have just been unveiled at Florence Midlands Masters bowling regions, led by Staffordshire teachers, sports coaches and staff at children’s Tennis and Bowling Club. Sport competitions and its senior tennis University. centres. England’s Inspired Facilities team is representing Great Britain at Each region has trialled a So successful has the project been that by programme and Biffa Landfill funded an event in Spain this year. pilot supply chain based on 2010 the number of Stoke-on-Trent children the courts at the not-for-profit The club has received up to different biomass types, with with a language delay had been reduced to community sports club, which also £2,500 from the council the city council establishing a 39 per cent – still higher than the national boasts two floodlit Crown Bowling over the years to support closed loop supply chain based average, but a big improvement on the greens as well as indoor bowls, its programme of tennis on woody biomass. situation five years before. Programme Lead and Speech Therapist Janet Cooper said Stoke snooker and chess. coaching for children. Our City p29 15/5/14 15:12 Page 1

SUMMER 2014 Our City 29 Foodbank collection points now at libraries ESIDENTS wishing centre, where they are redeemed to support local for three days’ emergency food. Rpeople in crisis are Volunteers can then meet those in crisis over a cup of tea or free now able to enjoy a good hot meal, and signpost them to book or browse the internet agencies able to solve their while making a donation to longer-term problems. Stoke-on-Trent Foodbank. Anna Willcocks, Stoke-on-Trent The foodbank box initiative is Foodbank Project Manager, said: part of a major drive by partners “It’s been 22 months since we resident Anna Dale, left, and across the city in the Wider first started distributing food, and her grandaughter Miley Windsor donated items to the Welfare Reform Group set up to in that time we have fed more Foodbank collection point at Stoke Library. Accepting the deal with the consequences of the than 16,695 people – 6,351 of food parcel is Stoke-on-Trent Foodbank Project a Willcocks. recession. whom were children. Special boxes are now available “We are really grateful for the at all libraries, making it even support and enthusiasm of the very grateful to receive any “Distribution centres opening tomatoes, breakfast cereals, easier for people to donate. council and its library staff for donations of in-date, non- soon are, St Stephens in tinned rice pudding, tea bags, Non-perishable items are setting up foodbank collection perishable food items from our Bentilee, St Andrews, Weston jars of instant coffee, rice collected from anyone who wishes points in their buildings. This shopping list, or for people to Coyney and Grace Church, (500g), pasta (500g), tinned to make a donation, and are then makes it even easier for local give their time as a volunteer.” Hanley.” fruit, jam, packets of biscuits sorted and stored – ready to be people to make these vital “As we open more In particular, Stoke-on-Trent and snacks. given to people in need. donations, and via the Civic distribution centres we welcome Foodbank is looking for the For more help, to volunteer Frontline care professionals Centre alone, nearly 89 kilos of ways in which we can increase following items: Milk (UHT or or look at the shopping list such as doctors, health visitors food was given in January. the amount of goods donated. powdered), tinned meat/fish, of items needed, call the and social workers identify people “Stoke-on-Trent Foodbank We are working to open more sugar (500g), instant mashed Stoke-on-Trent Foodbank in crisis, and issue them with a relies on the generosity of local centres to reduce the distance potato, long-life fruit juice, tins on 01782 281818 or visit foodbank voucher. These can be people to help feed those who people in crisis have to walk or of soup, pasta sauces, sponge the website: taken to a foodbank distribution are in crisis, and we would be travel to get to our help. pudding (tinned), tinned stokeontrent.foodbank.org.uk Campaign to stop rise in domestic Extra patrols to cut dog fouling violence during the World Cup DOG fouling hotspots are being AS the 2014 World Cup looms large on the horizon, “Football doesn’t cause domestic abuse, but in targeted by council enforcement the council and are joining forces some relationships it can compound it. Arguments officers who have the power to issue in a bid to show a red card to the potential for about the amount of television watched, alcohol on-the-spot fixed penalty fines of £50. increased domestic violence. intake, jealousy due to people spending more time Extra patrols are being carried out in The campaign is being launched by the Domestic with friends and an increase in money spent can lead the ten worst streets identified while Abuse Partnership, which also includes the voluntary to a rise in tension.We want to get the message across the council is also tackling the problem sector and children’s services. that alcohol, and the emotions surrounding a football in city parks. National and international studies have all shown a match, can never be acceptable excuses for domestic Dog mess poses a hazard to human clear link between major sporting competitions and violence.” health because it contains harmful the risk of over-excited and alcohol-fuelled football Detective Superintendent Mark Dean, from bacteria and parasites like hookworm fans lashing out at home when their favourites do Staffordshire Police, said domestic abuse was an and the roundworm infection not perform as well as expected. But in Stoke-on- offence that affected not only direct victims, but also toxocariasis, which can cause blindness Trent, a series of messages will be streamed via children, wider families and friends. He said offenders social media and on local radio to encourage likely in young children. needed to challenge their own behaviour, understand PDSA Vet Duncan Senior, who is also offenders to curb their anger and remind victims it and seek help and support to end the cycle of abuse. of domestic violence that they do not have to put concerned about the health of pets, He added: “Domestic violence is rarely a one-off up with it. said:“Dog mess infected by a disease and tends to escalate in frequency and severity over Key messages in the campaign include “It’s never like Parvovirus is a ticking time bomb OK” and “There’s no excuse”. time.Victims often blame themselves and can make for other dogs. It is in all dog owners’ excuses about the offender’s behaviour. These will be pushed out during the lead up to interests for people to pick up after “It’s never OK and there is no excuse that is the start of the World Cup in Brazil on 12 June, their pets and dispose of the waste with the main focus on the days of England acceptable. We would encourage any victim to take the first steps to free themselves from abuse by properly.” games against Italy on 14 June, Uruguay on To report dog fouling call the 19 June and Costa Rica on 24 June. reporting it and seeking help.We carry out robust investigations to bring offenders to justice.” council’s customer contact centre on The day after each England game will 01782 234234 or use a reporting form also be targeted for attention as research “We would encourage everyone to drink alcohol has shown a spike in domestic violence sensibly, understand their own limits and recognise in the environment section of the on those occasions. what triggers abuse.” council’s website at stoke.gov.uk Councillor Adrian Knapper, Cabinet ● Anyone concerned about domestic violence and We are currently consulting on Member for Health and Wellbeing, said: abuse should phone the Arch Domestic Violence Dog Control Orders and would like “According to research by Women’s Aid, incidents Helpline on 01782 205500. Anyone who feels they your views, please visit of domestic abuse increase by 25 per cent on days have a problem with their drug or drinking habit is stoke.gov.uk/dogcontolorders or call when England play international football tournaments encouraged to contact CRI on 01782 219777,or 01782 232233 for a questionnaire. and by 10 per cent on the following day. Aquarius on 01782 283113. Our City p30 15/5/14 12:57 Page 1

30 Our City SUMMER 2014 Prevention is key to strategy on LEP chief urges ministers to improving city’s sexual health and back key funding bid tackling problems TOKE–ON-TRENT and million pound bid over a six-year “We will continue to work period to 2020. It is seeking £120 innovatively in this area as one of PREVENTION is the key aim of Staffordshire’s new million in 2015-16 to start work just three national skills pilot areas newly modeled sexual health Sbusiness chief has urged on strategic projects, which would selected by the Government and services being co-ordinated by Government ministers to back lever substantial private investment. expect imminent project the council’s public health a multi-million pound bid that Speaking about the Single announcements as part of this.” team. would unlock more jobs and Growth Fund bid, David said: “It He added: “As the new A three-pronged approach growth across the area. sets out our ambitious plans to Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire now involves universal David Frost, the former director grow our economy by 50 per cent Enterprise Partnership chairman I prevention to create a culture general of the British Chambers of over the next decade and create am confident we are already in a of good sexual health. It Commerce, has been appointed as 50,000 jobs. strong position, thanks in no small equips people with the the Chairman of the “Our strategic plan identifies part to the leadership of Ron knowledge and skills to make Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire key strengths such as advanced Dougan and a strong, focused informed and healthy choices Local Enterprise Partnership manufacturing and medical board. Securing the city deal and about their relationships and (LEP). He succeeds Ron Dougan technologies and also focuses on national funding for major who has chaired the LEP since ensuring we have skilled infrastructure projects are real sexual experiences. 2012. work-ready candidates to meet the achievements for the area on his Local Enterprise Partnership Primary prevention provides The LEP has submitted a multi- needs of business. watch.” Chairman David Frost. support for wellbeing, healthy relationships and good sexual health through services to promote safer sex and reduce risk-taking behaviours. Secondary prevention, previously referred to as treatment, is where most resources are currently spent. The aim is that early treatment will prevent onward transmission of infections and is an opportunity to educate against repeat infection. Achievements during the first year already include increases in the use of long-acting reversible contraception, improved delivery and access to services and the introduction of a contract with partners to reduce teenage pregnancy. The integrated sexual health service at now offers 12-hour opening with walk-in sessions from Monday to Friday and is open on Saturday mornings. Multi-agency training has been commissioned for key frontline staff engaged in the safeguarding of those at risk of sexual exploitation.The development of a Staffordshire-wide strategy for sexual health and wellbeing is in its final stages. Sue Scott, the council’s Principal Health Improvement Manager – High Risk Lifestyles, said: “The key to good sexual VITAL SHOPPING CENTRE SERVICE: back row standing, left to right, are Shopmobility Co-ordinator Nicky Rowley, health is prevention, Assistant Shopmobility Co-ordinator Gemma Watkiss and Shopmobility Volunteer Joanne Bookless. Front row prevention, prevention. left to right, are Service Users Linda Burgess, Barbara Dodd, Councillor Terry Crowe and Stephen Stanyer. “We’re aiming to reduce the need for services to deal with the consequences of poor sexual health including Shopmobility moves to new temporary home sexually transmitted A service for shoppers with disabilities has scooters (suitable for people up to 35 stone), Service user Linda Burgess was full of infections, HIV and temporarily moved to a new home while a electric wheelchairs and manual praise.The 68-year-old, of Boundary Street, terminations of pregnancy, by city centre leisure development takes shape. wheelchairs. Hanley, said: “I have been relying on supporting people to maintain For the last 17 years, Shopmobility – run A map showing Shopmobility’s new Shopmobility for about 15 years. It’s a real good sexual health in the first by the council and supported by intu location has been produced and has been godsend. I have a mobility issue and without place. Potteries – has been based on the bottom handed out to users of the service. It’s the scooter it would be very difficult to get “We’re trying to change level of the multi-storey car park off Brewery business as usual for Shopmobility in its new out and about and do my shopping. people’s mindsets and want to Street. temporary home, with the opening times The team are fantastic. Nothing is too ensure high quality universal It has now moved a short distance to Birch and equipment remaining exactly the same much trouble for them. Even though prevention.The key is getting Terrace car park, next to the new bus station, and users getting the same benefits. Shopmobility has moved to a temporary appropriate prevention while the £20million project is carried out. Friendly staff are on hand to show people new home the same service is offered and I services in place so we can The service allows people to use the city how to use the equipment and they can have no complaints at all.” reduce the need for treatment centre’s facilities independently. It provides practice until they feel comfortable enough ■ For more information on the service, call services.” a total of 33 scooters including electric to head into the City Centre. 01782 233333. Our City p31 15/5/14 12:58 Page 1

SUMMER 2014 Our City 31

Abbey Hulton and Townsend GWEN HASSALL ADRIAN KNAPPER (Labour) (Labour) Your 07557 848765 07714 334453 gwen.hassall@ adrian.knapper@ Councillors stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk Baddeley Green,Milton and Norton Bentilee and Ubberley JACK BRERETON ANTHONY MUNDAY DUNCAN WALKER SHEILA PITT ALISON (Conservative) (City Independents) (Labour) (Labour) (Labour) 07855 916134 (01782) 239737 (01782) 912422 07957 948896 07968 477901 jack.brereton@ 07743 876421 duncan.walker@ sheila.pitt@ alison.wedgwood@ stoke.gov.uk anthony.munday@ stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk

Birches Head and Central Forest Park Blurton East Blurton West and Newstead Boothen and Oakhill PAUL BREEZE MARK MEREDITH GLENYS WARD NEIL DAY ANDY PLATT (City Independents) (Labour) (City Independents) (Labour) (Labour) (01782) 279684 07717 714020 (01782) 312670 (01782) 598844 07919 660221 paul.breeze@ mark.meredith@ 07922 909545 07796 040002 andy.platt@ stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk glenys.ward@ [email protected] stoke.gov.uk Twitter: stoke.gov.uk Twitter: @markmeredith01 @CllrAndyST4

Bradeley and Chell Heath Broadway and Longton East Burslem Central Burslem Park Dresden and Florence GURMEET SINGH TOM REYNOLDS ALAN DUTTON JOY GARNER SHAZAD HUSSAIN KALLAR (Labour) (Labour) (Labour) (Labour) (Labour) 07850 828717 (01782) 824051 (01782) 768846 07899 771815 07900 604232 tom.reynolds@ 07982 231567 07986 442770 shazad.hussain@ gurmeetsingh.kallar@ stoke.gov.uk alan.dutton@ [email protected] stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk Twitter: stoke.gov.uk Twitter:@button1001 @longtontom.

Eaton Park Etruria and Hanley Fenton East Fenton West and Mount Pleasant Ford Green and Smallthorne TERRY CROWE MAJID KHAN PAUL SHOTTON KAREN CLARKE MATT WILCOX (Labour) (Labour) (Labour) (Labour) (Labour) (01782) 269422 07989 441707 (01782) 434445 07917 270594 07810 825600 07818 044755 majid.khan@ paul.shotton@ karen.clarke@ matt.wilcox@ terry.crowe@ stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk

Goldenhill and Sandyford Great Chell and Packmoor Hanford and Trentham MARTIN GARNER JANINE BRIDGES ANN JAMES TERENCE FOLLOWS PETER HAYWARD (Labour) (Labour) (City Independents) (City Independents) (City Independents) (01782) 768846 (01782) 851842 (01782) 836766 (01782) 318127 (01782) 644986 martin.garner@ 07771 331893/ ann.james@ 07944 055379 07920 835839 stoke.gov.uk 07717 714205 stoke.gov.uk terence.follows@ peter.hayward@ janine.bridges@ stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk

Hanley Park and Shelton Hartshill and Basford Hollybush and Longton West Joiner’s Square North and Normacot AMJID WAZIR SHAUN PENDER KATH BANKS ALASTAIR WATSON BAGH ALI (Labour) (Labour) (Labour) (Labour) (Labour) 07747 830461 (01782) 632104 (01782) 399759 07736 837822 (01782) 343246 amjid.wazir@ 07825 142327 07790 699379 alastair.watson@ 07973 848428 stoke.gov.uk shaun.pender@ kath.banks@ stoke.gov.uk [email protected] stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk Twitter: @CllrActional22

Little Chell and Stanfield Meir Hay Meir North Meir Park Meir South RUTH ROSENAU DAVID CONWAY MUHAMMAD AUMIR (Labour) ABI BROWN DEBBIE WHEELDON (City Independents) (Labour) (01782) 501940 (Conservative) (Labour) (01782) 790922 07886 581082 07870 503575 07793 844169 (01782) 595043 david.conway@ muhammad.aumir@ ruth.rosenau@ abi.brown@ 07870 777807 stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk debbie.wheeldon@ Twitter: stoke.gov.uk @CllrRuthRosenau

Moorcroft Penkhull and Stoke Sandford Hill Sneyd Green Springfields and Trent Vale MOHAMMED PERVEZ RANDOLPH CONTEH OLWEN HAMER DEBRA GRATTON JACKIE BARNES (Labour) (City Independents) (Labour) (Labour) (City Independents) (01782) 232468 (01782) 236663 or 07717 714207 07917 854981 (01782) 845619 / mohammed.pervez@ 232751 (temporary) olwen.hamer@ debra.gratton@ 07813 539410 stoke.gov.uk randolph.conteh@ stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk jackie.barnes@stoke. Twitter: stoke.gov.uk Twitter: gov.uk @pervezstoke @debra_gratton

Tunstall Weston Coyney FORTHCOMING PUBLIC MEETINGS AT THE CIVIC CENTRE, STOKE: LEE WANGER MATTHEW FRY The next meetings of the Cabinet between the The next full City Council meeting during this (City Independents) (Non-aligned) 28 May 2014 and 28 August 2014 are as follows: period will be on 3 July at 5.30pm. (01782) 856712 07826 891801 29 May, 26 June and 31 July and 28 August 2014. 07971 303729 matthew.fry@ lee.wanger@ stoke.gov.uk For more information on your Councillors go to stoke.gov.uk/councillors stoke.gov.uk Councillors can also be contacted through the Councillor and Civic Support Team who can take messages and forward them on.They can be contacted on (01782) 231922 or 231924.

Information on city councillors was correct at the time of going to press. Our City p32 15/5/14 15:53 Page 1

32 Our City SUMMER 2014 Bob Bennett tends his allotment at Scott Lidgett Ideal crops Road, Middleport – with a little help for novices from a couple of scarecrows. who don’t know their onions... EVEN novice gardeners who don’t know their onions can take on an allotment and quickly be growing their own food. There are lots of low maintenance crops which will flourish with just an occasional weed and water. A few of these are winter squashes, drying beans, chillies, maincrop potatoes, rhubarb, globe and Jerusalem artichokes, beetroot, carrots, kale, onions, garlic, shallots, perpetual spinach and chard. Herbs are easy to grow too, and even the smallest greenhouse puts tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers and aubergines on the menu. The National Allotments Society has lots of information and growing advice on its website at Sowing seeds for a www.nsalg.org.uk/ HEALTHYFUTURE

LLOTMENTS are vacant allotments in most areas. allotment. It is gentle available to rent at Council Allotments Officer Sue exercise, you get to eat Asites across the city Radcliffe said: “Generally speaking, great fruit and veg and are sowing seeds for a new if someone applies and is you can save money. reasonably flexible about location, Tenants only need a crop of gardeners growing we should be able to find them few basics to get their own. something. started. There is also More and more people are “Some plots will be more a huge amount of finding that homegrown fruit and challenging than others. Obviously community spirit veg not only taste good and save we wouldn’t give an overgrown plot generated. money, but also provide some that needs double digging to an “Although you don’t gentle exercise in the great elderly person. need any special skills outdoors. “Sometimes people just drop or experience, you do And as citizens are urged to do lucky. Beautifully tended plots do need time to cultivate an their bit for Stoke-on-Trent’s occasionally become available but allotment and will need to future, allotments are helping to more often it’s a plot that needs a visit your plot regularly.” boost fitness and build community bit of work to get it back into For more information spirit. shape.” about renting an allotment There are 3,500 allotment plots Rent for an average allotment go to stoke.gov.uk and click on 76 sites in the city. Plots vary plot costs around £55 a year and on ‘A’ in the A-Z of web pages Here’s one gardener who does from the size of a domestic payments can be spread out over section at the top of the page. know his onions – Harry Kelly, greenhouse base to 300 square three or four months for anyone Then scroll down and click on aged 74, has a fine looking crop metres – big enough to feed a who would find it difficult to pay in the link called Allotments to get family with produce left over for one go. to the online application form. of onions on his Middleport friends and neighbours. Sue said: “There are lots of Or call the contact centre on allotment. And the good news is that there good reasons for having an 01782 234234.

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Web: stoke.gov.uk New non-emergency number: 101 Free Home Fire Risk Check: 0800 0241 999 Facebook: facebook.com/ In an emergency always call: 999 For all other enquiries: 08451 221155 stokeontrent.citycouncil Web: www.staffordshire.police.uk In an emergency always call: 999 Twitter: @SoTCityCouncil Facebook: facebook/staffordshirepolice Web: www.staffordshirefire.gov.uk twitter.com/SoTCityCouncil Twitter: @staffspolice Twitter: twitter.com/staffsfire Tel: 01782 234234 YouTube: YouTube/staffordshirepolice Facebook: facebook.com/ staffordshirefireandrescueservice

Contact us by mail at FREEPOST Our City or by email at [email protected] or telephone 01782 236703 Information in Our City correct at the time of going to press.